Ocala Gazette | July 8 - July 14, 2022

VOLUME 3 ISSUE 27

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We turned two!

JULY 8 - JULY 14, 2022

Ocala International Airport anticipates more development

State seeks to fast-track abortion fight

By James Blevins james@ocalagazette.com Jennifer Hunt Murty jennifer@ocalagazette.com

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he Ocala City Council approved two agenda items Tuesday, July 5, during its regularly scheduled meeting, both relating to the Ocala International Airport (OIA).

Only three city council members were present for the meeting: Jim Hilty, Ire Bethea and Kristin Dreyer.

The first agenda item involved a letter of intent with Michael P. Wood to develop approximately 64 acres of airport property with the goal of constructing an aviationthemed luxury R.V. park.

The second item involved the sale of seven acres of non-aviation property to Boyd-Mox Development LLC for $700,000.

Luxury R.V. Park

Airport director Matthew Grow called the development deal with Wood a “novel idea.”

“I can’t find anything like it in the country,” said Grow. “The Airport Advisory Board fully supports the development proposal that has the potential of bringing in several hundreds of thousands of dollars in revenue to the airport.”

The 64 acres in question, which OIA is leasing to the developer, are on airport property, explained Grow, on the north end between the crosswind runway and State Road 40. The letter of intent gives the airport 90 days to come up with a lease agreement with Wood, which staff would then bring to the city council for further approval.

Mayor Kent Guinn expressed some concerns to Grow about the project.

“What scares me is when staff says things like this is the first time that this has ever been done or this is the first one you can find in the country,” Guinn said.

Grow responded by explaining that what makes the proposed development unique is the number of T-hangers—a type of enclosed structure designed to hold aircraft in protective storage—that will be dedicated for the R.V. park.

“The idea is that people will come down to Central Florida, maybe for WEC or Hits or some other equestrian event, and they will stay here for several weeks at a time,” he said. “A lot of these people are high net worth individuals that got their million-dollar RV buses.

But a lot of them also have aircraft.”

“Think of it as a hotel,” added Grow, “just [directly] on an airport.”

Council member Jim Hilty admitted that he was struggling to See Airport, page A3

A woman who only wanted to be identified as Nele, holds a sign as she protests against the Supreme Court decision to overturn Roe v. Wade with about 100 demonstrators during a prochoice rally on the Ocala Downtown Square in Ocala on Friday, July 1, 2022. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2022.

By Jim Saunders Florida News Service

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ttorney General Ashley Moody’s office late Tuesday requested that a battle about a new 15week abortion law go quickly to the Florida Supreme Court — and

indicated that the state will use a U.S. Supreme Court ruling that struck down Roe v. Wade to help defend the law.

The request was part of a flurry of legal activity after Leon County Circuit Judge John Cooper issued a temporary injunction Tuesday morning to block the law (HB 5), which prevents abortions

after 15 weeks of pregnancy, except in limited circumstances.

The state immediately filed a notice of appeal of Cooper’s ruling at the 1st District Court of Appeal. Later, it filed a document requesting that the case be See Protestors, page A2

New school to be named ‘Fordham Early Learning Academy’

The new Fordham Early Learning Academy, which was the old Evergreen Elementary School, is shown on West Anthony Road in Ocala on Wednesday, July 6, 2022. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2022.

By Caroline Brauchler caroline@ocalagazette.com

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he Marion County School Board decided on the name of Fordham Early Learning Academy for the new school located on the former Evergreen Elementary School campus after

a majority voted for the name in a public survey from MCPS. While voluntary pre-kindergarten (VPK) programs have been in place in every Marion County school since the 2021-2022 school year, FELA is the only school primarily dedicated to the education of pre-K and kindergarten students, said

Jennifer Beck, an administrator at FELA and the director of elementary curriculum, instruction and digital learning.

“When we can sort our children and give them a strong foundation and literacy, we are working to make sure that they See FELA, page A7

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Fire Fees.......................................... A2 Elections......................................... A4 State News...................................... A7 Jonathan Fort................................ B1 Calendar......................................... B5

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JULY 8 - JULY 14, 2022 | OCALA GAZETTE

Protestors against Florida law gather in Ocala Continued from page A1 fast-tracked to the Florida Supreme Court, effectively bypassing the appeals court.

“The circuit court has enjoined HB 5, which restricts the small fraction of abortions in Florida that occur after 15 weeks’ gestation and do not meet one of HB 5’s exceptions,” the document said.

“The state’s appeal from that decision raises questions of exceptional public importance that warrant immediate resolution by the Florida Supreme Court. This (1st District) Court should so certify this appeal (to the Supreme Court) as soon as practicable.”

The filing also indicated that the state plans to use the U.S. Supreme Court’s June 24 ruling that struck down the decades-old Roe v. Wade abortion-rights decision to help defend the 15-week limit.

Abortion clinics and a physician challenged the 15-week limit under a privacy clause in the Florida Constitution that has long played a key role in bolstering abortion rights in the state. In issuing the temporary injunction Tuesday, Cooper agreed with the plaintiffs that the limit violated the privacy clause.

But in the filing late Tuesday, lawyers in Moody’s office wrote that in the past, “the Florida Supreme Court has relied on the U.S. Supreme Court’s abortion decisions in reasoning that Florida’s privacy clause ‘implicate(s)’ the right to abortion.”

The filing said the U.S. Supreme Court ruling last month in a Mississippi case “rejected the notion that a right to abortion ‘is an integral part of a broader entrenched right,’ whether characterized as a ‘right to privacy’” or as “the freedom to make ‘intimate and personal choices’ that are ‘central to personal dignity and autonomy.’”

“That sea-change in federal law plainly warrants reconsideration of the Florida Supreme Court’s interpretation of Florida’s own constitutional right to privacy, and there will be great uncertainty in Florida until it does so,” lawyers in Moody’s office wrote.

While Cooper issued a temporary injunction against the 15-week law, the injunction was placed on hold when the state filed the notice of appeal at the Tallahassee-based 1st District Court of Appeal. That is because the notice triggered an automatic stay, under an appellate rule.

Attorneys for abortion clinics and a physician challenging the law filed a motion Tuesday afternoon asking Cooper to vacate the automatic stay. They pointed, in part, to “irreparable harm” if the 15-week limit remains in effect during the appeal.

“Every day that HB 5 remains in effect, Florida patients in desperate need of post-15-week abortion services are being turned away and forced to attempt to seek abortions out of state, if they are able to do so; to attempt abortions outside the medical system; or to continue pregnancies against their will,” the motion said. “It is unjustifiable to impair plaintiffs’ ability to provide care to Floridians, as courts have held that ongoing violations of constitutional rights support an order to vacate a stay.”

The state opposes vacating the automatic stay, though it had not filed a response to the motion as of Wednesday morning, according to an online docket. Cooper indicated during a hearing last week that he was unlikely to override a stay.

The law was one of the mostcontentious issues of this year’s legislative session. The abortion clinics and doctor filed the challenge June 1, a month before the law was slated to take effect.

Appellate cases commonly take months, and it is likely the dispute about the 15-week limit would wind up at the Florida Supreme Court, regardless of how the 1st District Court of Appeal would rule.

While the Florida Supreme Court has relied on the privacy clause in the state Constitution to uphold abortion rights, the court has become far more conservative since early 2019. That is because of the retirements of longtime justices Barbara Pariente, R. Fred Lewis and Peggy Quince and the appointment of justices by Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis.

People hold signs as they protest against the Supreme Court decision to overturn Roe v. Wade during a pro-choice rally on the Ocala Downtown Square in Ocala on Friday, July 1, 2022. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2022.

Megan, left, and Charlotte Buckley, right, hold signs. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2022.

People hold signs during a pro-choice rally. Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2022.

City’s budgets administrative costs and lays out plans for issuing fire fee refunds

By Jennifer Hunt Murty jennifer@ocalagazette.com

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n Tuesday, the Ocala City Council approved a budget resolution appropriating $200,000 for administrative costs associated with issuing court ordered refunds to utility customers.

The case stems from a class-action suit filed in 2014 over the roughly $15 a month that more than 89,000 Ocala residents and businesses paid for fire services as an add on to their Ocala Electric Utility

bills. During the trial, the city’s attorney argued Ocala implemented the tax in 2006 to spread the cost of fire services across a broad group of citizens, some of whom would not typically be paying them because they didn’t own real property or were tax-exempt. An appellate court found the fees constituted an illegal tax, and a judge ordered the city to refund the nearly $80 million in fees that was collected from utility customers over the eight years.

The city has contracted with a Massachusetts company, The Notice Company, Inc. to administer the refunds.

Under the contract, the company will be responsible for “providing notice and distributing payments to eligible Class Members” and keeping track of when those notices are returned by mail.

Additionally, the company will be responsible for creating and maintaining a website OcalaFireFee.com, setting up toll-free phone lines, and monitoring and responding to emails about refunds.

The agreement outlines how the city intends to handle a second wave of refunds distributing whatever the remainder of the $80 million is leftover after not being able

to locate claimants.

A new bank account will be set up with the remainder of the proceeds and the company will prepare a database listing class members who cashed their checks. Those members will be entitled to a second distribution “on a pro rata basis subject to a cap of 100% refund to each Class Member between First and Second distributions.”

If after the second distribution of refunds there is any money left over, those funds will return to the city.

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Airport wants to develop high-end R.V. park

Ocala International Airport-Jim Taylor Field

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from the proceeds of the deal.

Gooding did raise one concern about the contract regarding Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) approval. He mentioned that it was not specifically referenced in the agreement, except that a buyer will close after it receives all necessary approvals from the city.

“Typically, it’s the city that gets the FAA approval,” Gooding continued. “There’s a 90-day PROPOSED period here, followed inspection ROAD (PHASE 2) by a permitting period.”

Grow anticipated receiving full FAA approval in three months.

Gooding then asked that the city include additional language in the contract making the land sale contingent upon the city receiving FAA approval during the inspection period.

A representative for Boyd-Mox who was present on July 5 agreed to the addition of the contract language. City Council then voted 3-0 to approve the sale.

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EXIST. / FUT. RUNWAY 18 Aerial view of the proposed property, highlighted in green, for the location of the planned luxury R.V. Park at the Ocala international Airport, 1770 S.W. 60th Ave., Ocala. [Supplied] APPROACH RPZ

policy direction to sell surplus Boyd entities ended, he did not to Boyd-Mox but also agreed to non-aviation property at the respond to inquiry. enter into an agreement to pay 891' DISPLACED airport, Grow admitted, the Under the contract, the city not Boyd Real Estate, LLC a 4%, or wrap his head around the two THRESHOLD RUNWAY EXTENSION Airport Advisory Board voted only agreed to sell the property $28,000, real estate commission central components of the unanimously against the sale, project coexisting. instead “It just feels like an oxymoronPRIMARY 125.5' SURFACEoffering to explore lease options with Boyd-Mox. to me,” said Hilty. “I mean— “[The advisory board is] airplanes and RVs? They don’t pushing for land leases on the seem go together.”

EXIST.to 8 END EXIST. 26 END airport,” said Grow. “We did Regardless, the council voted 3-0 to approve the letter of intent. present that to the developer FUT. 26 END but I guess it RUNWAY doesn’t8-26 necessary (ADG-I) EXIST. LOCALIZER EQUIPMENT EXIST. (3,009' x 50') / FUT. (4,791' x 60') LOCALIZER work for their business model Boyd-Mox sale LOCALIZER in this instance. But based on Ocala-based company BoydCRITICAL AREA council’s policy direction, staff Mox Industrial Development RELOCATED LOCALIZER EQUIPMENT recommends approval.” approached the city, explained Jimmy Gooding, who was Grow, looking for an additional the sitting attorney for the city seven acres for its commercial 0 350' 700' council during Tuesday’s meeting, and industrial development. said he stopped representing Boyd-Mox provided the city Boyd family business interests a contract to purchase the land Potential North Hangar Development-V5 so there was no conflict in his at $100,000 an acre and an appraisal in support of their offer. representation of the city in this transaction. When asked about Though the land sale is Aerial view of the proposed property, highlighted in yellow, for Boyd-Mox Development and located at the Ocala International Airport, 1770 S.W. 60th Ave., Ocala . [Supplied] consistent with the City Council’s when his representation of the 39.5'

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Continued from page A1

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CITY’S AQUATIC FUN CENTERS TO REDUCE POOL OPERATION HOURS

By Ocala Gazette Staff

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he City of Ocala’s Aquatic Fun Centers will implement a reduction in hours of operation, according to a July 1 press release, beginning Tuesday, July 12.

Reduced hours of operation are being initiated to maintain state safety guidelines amid a critical lifeguard shortage, which, according to the American Lifeguard Association, is affecting about a third of the country’s public pools.

“Unfortunately, this has been a trend over the last several years, even before COVID-19,” said Preston Pooser, director of Ocala Recreation and Parks. “We have experienced increased challenges in recruitment and retention of summer lifeguards. We begin the annual recruitment process as early as February and offer highly competitive pay. However, only 60% of our positions were filled this summer.”

Pooser encouraged the following of “stringent” state safety guidelines that includes a 25 to 1 swimmer to lifeguard ratio.

“Due to attrition and limited availability of lifeguards to work through the remainder of the summer sessions, we are currently unable to safely staff both pools simultaneously,” he said. “The safety of our guests is first and foremost, so we must adjust our pool hours and days of operation to ensure we have enough lifeguards to safely operate each facility.”

Should staffing availability change, Pooser added, pool hours will be adjusted.

The Jervey Gantt Aquatic Fun Center, 2390 S.W. 36th Ave., and the Hampton Aquatic Fun Center, 255 N.W. Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd., will alternate operating days and continue to host two sessions per day, according to the city.

2.00

Effective July 12, pool hours of operations will be as follows:

% APY

• Hampton Aquatic Fun Center

Wednesday, July 13—10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 to 5 p.m.

Friday, July 15—10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 to 5 p.m.

Tuesday, July 19—10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 to 5 p.m.

Thursday, July 21—10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 to 5 p.m.

Saturday, July 23—10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 to 5 p.m.

Wednesday, July 27—10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 to 5 p.m.

Friday, July 29—10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 to 5 p.m.

Saturday, July 30—10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 to 5 p.m. *

• Jervey Gantt Aquatic Fun Center

Tuesday, July 12—10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 to 5 p.m.

Thursday, July 14—10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 to 5 p.m.

Saturday, July 16—10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 to 5 p.m.

Wednesday, July 20—10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 to 5 p.m.

Friday, July 22—10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 to 5 p.m.

Tuesday, July 26—10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 to 5 p.m.

Thursday, July 28—10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 to 5 p.m.

Saturday, July 30—10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 to 5 p.m. * *If staffing levels meet safety guidelines Admission per session for a single individual is $2 for children ages 17 and under and $3.50 for adults ages 18 and up.

For more information, visit www.ocalafl.org/aquatics or call the City of Ocala Recreation and Parks Department at (352) 368-5517.

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JULY 8 - JULY 14, 2022 | OCALA GAZETTE

Elections Q & A with the candidates Editor’s Note: Leading up to the 2022 primary and general elections, we’ll be asking candidates to weigh in regularly on a question related to the office they seek. The

candidates are given almost a week to respond to the questions in writing. We ask that the candidates keep their answers under 250 words, and we do not edit them at all.

County court judicial candidates How can a judge manage their dockets in such a way that it allows for efficiency yet accommodates justice when one rule doesn’t fit all?

File photo: The Marion County Judicial Center on Wednesday, August 5, 2020. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2020.

Seat 1

LeAnn Barnes A judge has to first make sure they know and understand how a county court docket runs. They should be familiar with the statutory rules and judicial administrative orders in place at the time to ensure that each party’s statutory and constitutional rights are protected. Above all a judge should follow the law.

A judge should have a case management order in place so that all are aware of their expectations but also be amendable to change when necessary and be mindful when granting a continuance, as this can this can slow dockets down, while considering the individual circumstances of each party.

A judge should be familiar with and use available resources including our alternative court services (Veteran’s Treatment Court, Mental Health Court, Dui Court and Drug Court) and the newly installed technology for hearings where appropriate and also have a working relationship with the clerk of courts and bailiffs and not be afraid to ask questions of their mentor judge and other judges, as it takes a lot of working parts to manage a docket.

I currently manage the second largest law firm in our county. I have handled multiple large criminal dockets and I have jury trial experience in county court and over the last 18 years, as a county court supervisor I’ve worked with 8 different county court judges. I have seen what is efficient, effective and just and can synthesize the best of all of these into one plan to efficiently manage a docket.

Danielle Ruse Judges can manage their dockets in a way to ensure

efficiency as well as fairness by making sure they come in to the courtroom prepared with a knowledge of the applicable law, rules of evidence, as well as a knowledge of the case in front of them. By doing so, they can focus on the evidence and testimony in the hearing. Also, they can manage the pace of the courtroom by respectfully, but firmly keeping all parties focused on the case at hand.

Having a prepared, knowledgeable, and organized Judge will ensure that the Court will be ready to hear the facts of the case and not get redirected into any inadmissible facts, arguments, or evidence.

This paired with a Judge that is mindful of the time spent in the hearing would ensure a fair and efficient Court.

Renee Thompson Marion County citizens depend on their local judiciary to fairly and efficiently resolve cases, giving every case the proper attention. An effective case management system is the best tool available to judges for the quick and just resolution of their cases. Proper case management is especially important for civil cases, which can become extremely expensive and time consuming if the parties are not kept to a schedule. By contrast, criminal cases are kept moving by application of the speedy trial rule and the pressure to keep cases moving given the constant influx of new cases.

Being a civil attorney for over twenty years in Marion County, I understand the complexities involved, and the need for effective case management. However, I also appreciate that every case is different, and every party should have a fair opportunity to be heard by the court and the merits of their claim given due consideration.

For years, judges employed case management systems on an individual basis, issuing orders based upon personal preferences. However, the Florida Supreme Court recently promulgated strict civil case management orders

statewide, requiring all judges take an active role in orchestrating the legal process, and the new system will hopefully improve judicial efficiency.

Recent advances in technology have also improved access to the court for litigants and counsel. Remote proceedings, for example, on platforms like Zoom are now widespread and save on time and expense to the parties, who no longer travel to the courthouse to seek justice before a judge.

Seat 2

Lori Cotton To ensure justice, a judge must be both efficient and responsive to the rights and needs of individuals.

As your judge, it is my responsibility to make sure you have access to the courts.

Here is what I do to balance efficiency and justice: 1. I take an active role in case management, and I set clear expectations for the parties.

2. I hold attorneys and litigants to a reasonable timeline.

3. I listen to attorneys and litigants when they ask for more time, and I grant those motions when the request is appropriate.

4. I lay eyes on every case every month - I file orders that need to be filed and I set hearings that need to be set.

5. Every case gets a next hearing date.

6. Nothing sits on my desk for more than 24 hours.

7. There is no “backlog” of cases on my docket.

8. I leave 8-9 a.m. open on most days so I can hear certain cases: unlawful detainers, garnishments, or animal fitness hearings - things that need a hearing quickly. I will take this same approach with the evictions cases assigned to me starting this month - setting aside time to hear those cases expeditiously.

The proof of my effective case management and hard work is in the numbers. On June 10, 2021, I had 1670 cases. As of June 10, 2022, that number was 1009 cases. I promise you no one will

work harder for you than I do.

William Harris I believe my experiences working in private practice and in the public sector give me a unique perspective to answer this question. I have litigated thousands of cases in courts throughout Central Florida and every case deserves individual consideration. Simply stated, no case is exactly the same.

In my nearly twenty (20) years of representing clients in federal and state courts, in civil and criminal matters, I would ALWAYS listen to what someone had to say about their specific case or situation. An unlikely or improbable scenario does not mean it is not true.

Everyone has a constitutional right to be heard which I will not tread upon.

As a prosecuting attorney, I carefully weighed evidence of guilt and innocence and sought to make fair decisions that ensured that justice ultimately prevailed and victims received restitution for any losses sustained.

Courtroom efficiency must not outweigh justice. While laudable, resolving cases for that sake alone cannot be done at the expense of our Constitution which only lead to unnecessary and costly appeals. I believe setting firm but realistic expectations for attorneys to prepare for court, communicate with their clients, and stipulate with opposing counsel on matters, when possible, significantly reduces wasted court time. Unresolved matters can then be set for hearing or trial and a fair balance of efficiency and justice can be achieved.

This approach has served me well and, as County Court Judge, I trust positive outcomes for the citizens of Marion County that find themselves in court and the taxpayers that are responsible for funding its operation will be obtained.

School board candidates What are some of the largest challenges facing Marion County schools and how do you plan to initially contribute to solutions?

File photo: School crossing guard William Vernon on the last day of school at Eighth Street Elementary School in Ocala on Thursday, May 26, 2022. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2022.

District 2

Lori Conrad As we continue to recover from the learning gap that has been intensified

by Covid, a key point we need to focus on to improve our student learning gains is in the area of student attendance. Students must be present to learn and master the Florida State

Standards that are being taught each and every school day. These standards and skills are being taught in every grade level in a rigorous cycle that builds throughout a student’s academic career. Students that miss 25, 35, and 45+ days of school each year will continue to lose ground in their educational journey. This holds true for student tardiness too. Children that arrive late each school day and continue to miss core subject matter, such as reading, writing and math will also continue to struggle in their academics.

The 2021-2022 student code of conduct states that each student enrolled in

Marion County Public Schools is expected to attend school every day and be punctual. Florida law states that each parent is responsible for their child’s regular school attendance, 1003. 24.

Looking ahead to the 2022-2023 school year it is imperative that we explicitly communicate these requirements with students and their families. As a county, we must take a no-nonsense approach, being steadfast in following through with appropriate consequences that help students take an active role in the learning process.

Joseph Suranni Some of the challenges facing our schools are: 1. A shortage of qualified teachers in classrooms 2. A shortage of bus drivers to get children to school 3. Parent involvement-especially at the elementary level In order to solve the labor shortage, we

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need to attract teachers to the profession.

This is not always done with financial compensation (although this would entice more to stay in the field).

When I entered teaching, it was a position of prestige, and we were thought of a pillars of the community. Now, with a decline in performance, teachers do not receive the accolades and honors they once enjoyed. Teachers need to feel valued.

Not only do we need to attract teachers, but we also need to retain them. To solve the retention issue, I would research what other neighboring counties are doing successfully to retain highly qualified teachers and, with the help of fellow board members, and the superintendent’s staff, attempt to implement something similar to what they are already doing well.

A bus driver shortage is problem that is not unique to Marion County.

Neighboring counties are also experiencing labor shortages in this area. Make no mistake, driving a bus is a hard job, and we must continue to search for individuals who have been called to this occupation. We must also support bus drivers with quality discipline and positive reinforcements through our District-Wide Positive Behavior Support programs.

In addition to the necessity of filling vacancies, we must fill the vacancy of parent involvement. Parents are our biggest asset, and we must invite them to be part of their child’s educational career.

We must provide parents resources to not only be their child’s first teacher, but to help them be their lifelong teacher.

Students have to see that there is a partnership between parents, teachers and school staff in order to take their stake in the outcome.

If we use these three items as a starting point, we will get on track to higher achievement and rising ranking among school districts in our state.

We need to get students transported to school where they can have a highly qualified teacher everyday. We need to revitalize the teaching profession in Marion County. We must continue to provide teachers with tools, resources, professional development, growth opportunities and support for future success to be realized.

District 3

Steven Swett The lack of effective, proactive, visionary leadership coupled with inefficient oversight and poor stewardship has exacerbated many of the problems the district has. My goal is to be a member of a school board that acts as a problem-solving team. A school board that addresses the issues and does not kick the can down the road.

Accountability and results are mandatory.

Measured academic improvement must be achieved and good governance can support our education staff in this vital task. The hiring and retention of all employees needs to be addressed.

All school employees need to be valued, respected and empowered to do their respective jobs. We must recruit and retain educators. Academic improvement will not be achieved without a foundation of professional, experienced and competent teachers. Teachers are the engine that drive success. This problem must be addressed immediately.

The lack of planning and lack of preparation for growth the county is experiencing is unacceptable. The historic lack of meetings, communication and cooperation between the school board and the other county agencies is inexcusable.

This issue requires immediate attention.

Parents must trust the school district that the schools are safe and parental rights are respected. Parents need to be confident that the school district is there to educate not indoctrinate Earning trust and honest communication to the community is vital.

Challenges are also opportunities.

Leadership, effective oversight, accountability and transparency will guide the district to needed improvement.

It will take teamwork, good governance, commitment and hard work by the entire school district to improve our schools. The present performance is unacceptable. I have faith that Marion County School

District can rise and meet the challenge with the proper leadership...

Eric Cummings who is also running for District 3 did not respond to Ocala Gazette’s invitation to answer candidate questions.

District 5

Dr. Sarah James We have several challenges facing our School Board. First, recruiting and retaining quality personnel is paramount.

We have lost about 25% of our staff in last few years and due to retirement could lose another 25% soon. We have vacancies throughout the district which impacts every student. We must competitively recruit great staff and build a culture that ensures we retain our staff, not just for today, but as we continue to grow as well.

Our second biggest challenge is preparing for growth. We have been hesitant on handling our growth pains, but the time is now. We have four streams of revenue to use to tackle these growth pains, but without a proper plan, the money is wasted. We can prepare to not only relieve some short-term pains, plan for the mid-term future, and look forward to future growth. We can add portables to campuses to address concerns for this August, prepare to build singular buildings, aka “wings”, on some currently at capacity campuses, and budget to build a new school site if needed. I believe in finding solutions that not only address the concerns for today but those of the next twenty to thirty years of growth.

Finally, we have over thirty percent of our graduates each year that go straight into the workforce. I plan to expand our vocational opportunities and better prepare out students for our workforce right here in Marion County. I plan to create a system that allows students to go into the job fields of our community right now that have a desperate need for hiring and not only learn their technical

skills but also those that are needed to be an effective employee. These fields can include hospitality, construction, and other trades.

As your Educated, Experienced, and Engaged candidate, I have solutions to address the problems we are facing.

Taylor Smith I believe one of the first challenges will be in addressing the tremendous growth that is occurring especially in the South West area of Marion County. With growth, also comes the issue of unfilled vacancies within all levels of school staffing, to include teachers, bus drivers, paraprofessions etc., which is also a top priority.

School board in the past has neglected to plan properly for the growth that is here. Portables can be added, but that is not a long term solution. Re-districting is a short term solution, but parent’s don’t want their children spending hours on the bus. If elected, I would like to see more collaborative efforts with local government to find long term solutions. I advocate for long term solutions, not reactive bandaides. I believe that communication and cooperation with parents, citizens, businesses, community and MCPS have the tools necessary to move this project forward for long term solutions.

Not every school will require the same solutions. It will take an individualized action plan for each school based on it’s needs. In a collaborative effort, with all parties involved, we will look at things like infrastructure, demographics, location, classroom enrollment, staggered scheduling and seek solutions so that each student will receive a quality education.

As a graduate of MCPS, I believe I can offer a fresh perspective with positive change. I am pragmatic and results oriented, and will apply these principles to this root cause analysis. I will represent the students, parents and community where I was raised to ensure these issues are addressed.

MCSB APPROVES NEW CONTRACTS WITH LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES FOR RESOURCE OFFICERS IN ALL SCHOOLS

By Caroline Brauchler caroline@ocalagazette.com

T

he Marion County School Board signed new agreements last Tuesday with three separate law enforcement agencies to renew police presence in schools for the next three years.

The School Resource Officer Agreements, enforced by the Marjory Stoneman Douglas Public High School Safety Act, comply with the requirement to have a Safe Schools Officer in every Florida School.

The Belleview Police Department, Marion County Sheriff ’s Office and Ocala Police Department all made arrangements with the school board to agree to the contract that will last from 2022 until 2025.

“On a yearly basis, the Safe Schools, Legal

and Finance Departments will evaluate the SRO contracts to review cost savings and other security measures that best meet the needs of Marion County Public Schools,” according to MCPS. Per each respective agreement, BPD will receive $205,384, MCSO will receive $8,190,000, and OPD will receive 4,635,188 from MCPS over the course of the threeyear contracts. At a total of $13,030,572, the funding for this contract sees a 20% increase compared to the previous contracts between the three departments in 2019 that totaled $10,865,552.

The requirements for police presence in Marion County schools is sanctioned by Florida Statute 1006.12 and the Marjory Stoneman Douglas Public High School Safety Act, Senate Bill 7026.

File photo: The Marion County Public School Board meets at the MTI auditorium in Ocala on Tuesday, April 26, 2022.

[Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2022.

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JULY 8 - JULY 14, 2022 | OCALA GAZETTE

Reasons for WEC Jockey Club approval

By Rosemarie Dowell rosemarie@ocalagazette.com

T

he three Marion County Commissioners who approved the massive WEC Jockey Club project against county staff recommendations and overwhelming opposition from nearby residents and adjacent landowners have declined requests for interviews for a follow-up story on the development.

Commissioners Michelle Stone, Jeff Gold and Chairman Carl Zalak III, June 21 voted to approve an amended application from Golden Ocala Equestrian, LLC., owned by billionaires Larry and Mary Roberts which will allow the construction of 94 homes, a 100-site RV park, 120,000-square feet of retail space, 9,000-seat stadium, polo fields and more on the former site of the Ocala Jockey Club in rural northwest Marion County.

The approval came after the Commissioners voted 3-to-2 to adopt two amendments to its Comprehensive Plan; one to its future land use map and the other the associated text amendment. The changes allowed the property’s zoning to be changed from mostly agricultural to a Planned Unit Development (PUD).

Commissioners Kathy Bryant and Craig Curry cast the dissenting votes in the 3-to-2 decision, during a sometimes tense nearly six-hour meeting attended by a capacity crowd of roughly 250 people, the vast majority of which vehemently opposed the project. Nearly three dozen residents spoke out against the application, oftentimes pleading with the commission to preserve the area’s rural character and turn down the developer’s request.

The 1,029-acre property is located within the county’s Farmland Preservation Area (FPA) and outside its Urban Growth Boundary (UGB) on narrow two-lane County Road 318 in Irvine, an area laced with horse farms and dotted with ancient oaks, fauna and flora, but still less than three miles from I-75.

The Roberts, who’ve lived in the Ocala area since the 1990s and own the World Equestrian Center (WEC) in Ocala, and R&L Carriers, an intrastate trucking company, among others, purchased the property in August for $10.5 million and soon announced plans to build a second WEC location on the site.

County staff, led by senior planner Chris Rison, recommended denial of the PUD application, citing several reasons, including that it was not consistent with the county’s Comprehensive Plan, would adversely affect the public interest and would not be compatible with the surrounding uses.

Tracy Straub, Assistant County Administrator, Public Works and Growth Services, also detailed traffic and road impacts the development would have on roadways, particularly County Road 318, and its 1964-era interchange at I-75, County Road 225 and others, citing a traffic study conducted as part of the county’s review of the project.

Total road improvements would cost more than $60 million, and the developers would foot the majority of the cost, but not all.

Angel Roussel, Assistant County Administrator, Public and Environmental Services, meanwhile, discussed WEC Jockey Club’s need for a water plant and waste water treatment facility. The total acreage needed for both facilities would be roughly 25 acres.

Stone, just prior to the vote, said she didn’t believe the project would adversely affect the public interest, contradicting county staff ’s analysis.

“Based on where it is proximally located off an interstate exchange,” explained Stone. “It is also contiguous to an employment center as well as there is another RV park within a stone’s throw from there as well.”

“It will be compliant with the Comprehensive Plan based on the changes that we are making,” she said. “It will be compatible with the surrounding area based on the activities that are already developed there.”

The closest RV park to the WEC Jockey Club, Ocala North RV Park, is located on Northwest County Road 225 in Reddick.

“Nobody can tell me that this isn’t going to increase significantly the intensity of use on this property”, said Curry also at the end of the meeting. “The Roberts are one of the most philanthropic people - families in Marion County, you don’t see half of what they do.”

“But this is not a benevolent act; this is going to be a money-making venture,” he said. “Don’t do it.”

Even so, the alternative PUD application, which took a 200-room hotel off the table and altered the size of an entrance sign by nearly half, as well as other concessions from Golden Ocala, was approved by the 3-to-2 vote. The fourfloor hotel with a ballroom was eliminated from the application after Zalak suggested it at the beginning of the meeting, but the developer was allowed to keep an existing clubhouse on the property to use as a meeting space and restaurant.

On June 24, the Gazette emailed Gold, Stone and Zalak requesting an interview for a follow-up story on their respective votes, but each declined the following Monday via the county’s public relations office. The Gazette did not seek interviews with Commissioners Kathy Bryant and Craig Curry, since they voiced several reasons for opposing the developing during the meeting.

Zalak, who is up for reelection along with Kathy Bryant in November, however, eventually agreed to answer questions submitted via email.

Here’s the Q&A from Zalak, verbatim. uestion: What evidence did you rely on in determining that WEC Ocala Jockey Club rezoning would not adversely affect public interests?

This PUD is equine related and is replacing an equine related use of the area. The applicant proposed 100 RV units, and currently there are 400 RV units allowed across the street.

Q

Q

uestion: What evidence did you rely on in deciding that the WEC Ocala Jockey Club was compatible with the surrounding area?

This PUD is equine related and is replacing an equine related use of the area. The applicant proposed 100 RV units, and currently there are 400 RV units allowed across the street.

Q

uestion: What does “rural character” as defined in Marion County’s Comprehensive Plan mean to you?

Rural character to me is the same as what is defined in the County’s Comprehensive Plan and is an important factor that is taken into consideration with every land use application that comes before the County Commission.

Q

uestion: What is your reasoning for voting for the project, despite county’s staff recommendation for denial and the dozens of nearby citizens and landowners who voiced their opposition to it as well?

Until the County’s Comprehensive Plan was amended with new text for this specific land use and location, county staff did not have the ability to recommend approval. For the text amendment changes to happen, it had to come before the County Commission for approval in accordance with Florida Statutes 163.3184.

County commissioners evaluated the text amendment and listened to people in the surrounding area. I voted as I did based on the testimony received, because this project is an equine facility that replaces an existing equine facility, the removal of the hotel, and because it fits the character and nature of the rural area within the Farmland Preservation Area. I believe that by having these equine eventing facilities in the FPA we will protect our farms in the long term.

Q

use and location. In order for the text amendment changes to happen, it had to come before the County Commission for approval in accordance with Florida Statute 163.3184. The proposed text amendment changes were brought forward at the June 21 public hearing.

Q

uestion: During the beginning of the applicant’s discussion of the WEC Jockey Club project you asked attorney Jimmy Gooding to ask his client to take the 200-room hotel off the table. Was your approval of the project contingent on Golden Ocala Equestrian eliminating it?

The removal of the hotel was one of many factors I considered prior to my vote. This removal reduced the commercial intensity of the project and enhances the project’s rural aspects.

Q

uestion: What about the potential adverse impact the development will have on the area’s critical water resources, including the Rainbow Spring Group and its spring shed boundaries, as well as the wildlife species that inhabit the former Jockey Club?

Per the responses from state agencies (FWC and DEP), we are in currently in compliance at this point in the process.

For your reference, the comments from each of these agencies is attached.

Q

uestion: The project calls for a bevy of road improvements, including the widening of County Road 318, which will entail acquiring right of way and property through eminent domain. What about the impact it will have on some property owners along the road, who will be forced to give up their homes and move?

There is a requirement for the applicant to provide necessary turn lanes into the property. The necessity of additional road improvements is not able to be determined until additional traffic studies have been completed at a later step in the process. If traffic studies suggest that additional road improvements are necessary, and completing that step requires acquisition of new right of way, the acquisition would not necessarily be acquired via eminent domain. There are numerous factors that would have to be considered before a roadwidening project would be initiated.

Q

uestion: What about the county’s share of cost for road improvements, including the 60s era I-75 interchange?

Where is the money to fund the county’s cost going to come from?

I don’t believe the county will have any cost associated with these projects.

Q

uestion: What about the fairness of allowing WEC Jockey Club to build homes on 3-acre-plus sites when the county requires ten-acre home sites within the FPA. The Ocala jockey club is just over 1000 acres and they are asking for 94 home units, so the density they have requested is equal to that of building homes on ten-acre sites. By building homes on 3-acre plus sites, we will keep the residential areas in smaller clusters and maximize the land available for the equine industry.

Q

uestion: How is the WEC Jockey Clue approval not precedent for allowing other developers to build within the FPA; property owners could argue that you allowed Golden Ocala to build a major development and should allow them to do the same.

This project, and any project with this land use designation, would have to have a text amendment for its specific location and be evaluated based on the benefits of its own development within the community.

uestion: County Staff in its analysis said the WEC Jockey Club PUD application was not consistent with the county’s Comprehensive Plan, would adversely affect the public interest and would not be compatible with the surrounding uses.

What convinced you to ignore the analysis and give the project the green light?

County staff ’s analysis was not ignored. County staff did not have the ability to recommend approval until the Comprehensive Plan was amended with Commissioner Carl Zalak, right, speaks Commissioner Craig Curry, left, looks on during the new text for this Marion County Commission meeting on the WEC Jockey Club development at the McPherson Governmental Complex in Ocala on June 21, 2022. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2022. specific land

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A7

JULY 8 - JULY 14, 2022 | OCALA GAZETTE

FELA: Focusing on pre-K and kindergarten

Jennifer Beck, the director of Early Learning, talks about some of the classrooms for Kindergarten and VPK students at the new Fordham Early Learning Academy, which was the old Evergreen Elementary School, on West Anthony Road in Ocala on Wednesday, July 6, 2022. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2022.

Continued from page A1 are proficient readers, and writers and mathematicians,” Beck said. “Then we think about the return on investment,

with what we’ve done only for the students potentially coming back and then working and living back in our community.”

The academy will open in August to serve students as young as 4 years old and

will be named after Edmond Fordham, a longtime educator and role model for the community. Fordham was an educator and administrator at multiple schools throughout Marion County over the course of several decades.

“The significance of that is the contribution that he has made as an individual, as a former employee of the school system and as a former administrator in the school system,” Beck said. “We want to capture that spirit from him and take that and make sure that that is very evident in what we are doing here at Fordham Early Learning Academy.”

The mission of the academy is to offer young students a foundation in literacy, so that by the time they are in third grade they will have the skills they need to excel in later elementary, middle and high school, said Ann Hembrook, area superintendent of elementary education.

“We’re really trying to set the young learners up for success so that they can become proficient readers,” Hembrook said.

The school will open on a smaller scale and then gradually expand to accommodate more grades and may help the capacity of schools in the northern area of Marion County, she said. In addition to expanding into first and second grades, the school also hopes to offer preschool learning for students as young

as 3 years old.

“The first year we’re going to have two pre-kindergarten classrooms and two kindergarten classrooms,” Hembrook said. “The year after next those kindergarten students would become first grade, so then we would have to add first grade classrooms.”

The school will be reimbursed for education costs, similar to the existing pre-K programs in the district, with a reimbursement for the cost of 540 hours of participation per student, in accordance with Florida Statute 1002.71.

The innovative school will offer a unique education experience to the school district, and administration team and early learning specialists of MCPS anticipate that it will greatly benefit the young students readying themselves to enter school, Hembrook said.

“This is something that we’ve been working on for quite some time and I really feel like it’s going to be a great opportunity for the students but also for Marion County as a whole,” she said.

The application for enrollment is open and available for parents to utilize. For more information about the Fordham Early Learning Academy and enrollment, call 352-671-6842.

City renews annual contract with Precision Sidewalk Safety to repair trip hazards

By James Blevins james@ocalagazette.com

T

he Ocala City Council approved the renewal of a one-year contract agreement with Precision Sidewalk Safety Corporation for concrete sidewalk trip hazard repairs on Tuesday, July 5, in the amount of $75,000.

The current agreement is scheduled to begin on Aug. 1, 2022 and terminate on July 31, 2023.

Precision Sidewalk Safety Corporation (PSSC) was first utilized by the City of Ocala in 2006. In 2015, the city decided to implement a regular, annual sidewalk asset maintenance program for its 242 miles of sidewalk within the city limits.

According to the city, concrete sidewalks have a tendency to shift, settle and form offsets between concrete panels, causing

trip hazards in the public right of way.

A for-profit corporation, PSSC is charged with ensuring infrastructure, to include sidewalks, that are adjacent to public streets are “in compliance with applicable regulations,” according to the city agreement.

Per the agreement, PSSC is the sole provider of a patented horizontal concrete cutting technique which “remediates hazardous changes in level, eradicates offsets entirely, and leaves a zero point of differential without markings or damage to adjacent landscape, hardscape, buildings, or walls.”

Over the last six years, the city’s program has minimized liability and improved safety and aesthetics of its sidewalks, saving its tax paying residents over $1,165,000 compared to alternative methods, according to city documents.

Above is an example of the work Precision Sidewalk Safety Corporation does for the city. These before and after photos were taken at 2720 N.E. 27th Street in Ocala. [Images supplied]

Last year, according to the city, a total of 1,583 changes in level had been inventoried, documented and repaired on 11 miles of sidewalk through Ocala and in two of its parks. Since the inception of the annual program, the city and PSSC have

inspected and repaired 9,464 hazards on 118.8 miles of sidewalk.

For more information, call Darren Park, director of Public Works, at (352) 351-6733, Monday through Friday, from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

State Battles continue as race instruction law takes effect

By Jim Saunders Florida News Service

A

s a new state law dubbed the “Stop WOKE Act” took effect Friday, businesses and a university professor continued battling to block its restrictions on how race-related concepts can be addressed in workplace training and schools.

Businesses, including a franchisee of the Ben & Jerry’s ice-cream chain, asked a federal judge Thursday to issue a preliminary injunction against the law. Meanwhile, a University of Central Florida professor continued to pursue a separate challenge.

In both cases, the plaintiffs argue the law, a priority of Gov. Ron DeSantis, violates First Amendment rights.

“The act silences speech aimed at combating racism and sexism — speech that is vital to the plaintiffs’ operation of their businesses,” the preliminaryinjunction motion filed Thursday by three businesses and an individual plaintiff said.

“The governor, and the Florida Legislature acting at his behest, has repeatedly sought to punish companies who have engaged in speech that displeases him, in flagrant violation of the First Amendment. Because Governor DeSantis is not a monarch, but rather a democratically elected official, the Stop WOKE Act cannot stand.”

The law (HB 7), which DeSantis signed April 22, spurred fierce debates before passing during this year’s legislative session. DeSantis called it the “Stop Wrongs To Our Kids and Employees Act,” or Stop WOKE Act. The law lists concepts that would constitute discrimination if they show up in classroom instruction or workplace training.

For example, it makes it illegal to compel people in workplace training to believe that an “individual, by virtue of his or her race, color, sex, or national origin, bears personal responsibility for and must feel guilt, anguish, or other forms of psychological distress because of actions, in which

the individual played no part, committed in the past by other members of the same race, color, sex, or national origin.”

When he signed the bill during a ceremony at a Hialeah Gardens charter school, DeSantis stood behind a placard that said “freedom from indoctrination.”

“We believe an important component of freedom in the state of Florida is the freedom from having oppressive ideologies imposed upon you without your consent, whether it be in the classroom or whether it be in the workplace.

And we decided to do something about it,” DeSantis said at the time.

The law, like nearly 150 others that passed this year, took effect last Friday.

Teachers, a student, a university professor and a diversity consultant filed a lawsuit in April to challenge the constitutionality of the law.

But Chief U.S. District Judge Mark Walker on Monday largely denied a request for a preliminary injunction because he said the teachers, student

and consultant did not have legal standing.

But Walker left unresolved issues related to Robert Cassanello, an associate history professor at the University of Central Florida, because the state university system’s Board of Governors was slated Thursday to take up a proposed rule that would help carry out the law. Walker ordered attorneys on both sides to file briefs about whether the proposed rule could affect Cassanello’s legal standing.

The Board of Governors moved forward with the proposed rule Thursday and is expected to take it up again Aug. 26. As of Friday morning, Walker had not ruled about whether Cassanello has standing to pursue the case, according to an online docket.

Meanwhile, businesses filed a second challenge June 22. Their attorneys followed up Thursday with an amended version of the lawsuit and the motion for a preliminary injunction.

The amended lawsuit added as a plaintiff Primo Tampa, LLC, a Ben & Jerry’s

franchisee. The other plaintiffs are Honeyfund.com, Inc., a Clearwater-based technology company that provides wedding registries, and Chevara Orrin and her company, Collective Concepts, LLC. Orrin and her company provide consulting and training to employers about issues such as diversity, equity and inclusion.

The motion for a preliminary injunction said, for example, that Primo Tampa employees are required to attend monthly corporate training sessions provided by Ben & Jerry’s. It said the law would force changes to the training sessions.

“Primo believes it is critical to educate its employees about implicit bias and the need for restorative justice so they can better understand its organizational culture, function more effectively as a team and provide true hospitality to customers,” said the motion, filed by attorneys from the national group Protect Democracy and the global law firm Ropes & Gray.

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JULY 8 - JULY 14, 2022 | OCALA GAZETTE

Fee sharing, telehealth raise medical marijuana questions

By Dara Kam Florida News Service

A

s the number of patients approved to use medical marijuana in Florida continues to climb, some providers are growing increasingly frustrated by what they allege are bad actors in the state’s highly competitive cannabis industry.

One of the issues involves online companies seeking to make it easier for people to qualify for medical marijuana by connecting patients and doctors. The businesses share a portion of fees with physicians, who sometimes conduct patient evaluations through telehealth.

The fee-sharing agreement could run afoul of a state law prohibiting patient brokering. And a separate law requires doctors to meet in person with patients seeking medical marijuana.

The activities are drawing the ire of doctors spending money and time to comply with what is deemed to be one of the nation’s most rigorously regulated medical marijuana programs.

Nearly 2,300 Florida doctors have undergone training that allows them to order medical marijuana, which was broadly legalized by state voters in a 2016 constitutional amendment. A number of physicians belong to practices that focus almost exclusively on cannabis patients.

The state has more than 730,000 patients who’ve qualified for the treatment.

Online businesses such as Veriheal are gaining a foothold in Florida and other states by promoting services for patients interested in getting state-issued medicalmarijuana cards.

“Veriheal is a healthcare technology company with a mission to provide personalized cannabis education and wellness to everyone around the world. We do that by connecting patients and doctors online, through our platform, to provide recommendations for living a better life,” the company’s website says.

Veriheal, a corporation registered in Delaware with a physical address in Colorado, charges $199 to hook up patients with doctors and help navigate the process to obtain Florida cards. The money is refundable if patients don’t qualify for the treatment.

According to a complaint filed with the Florida Board of Medicine in February, Veriheal enlisted doctors to participate in its referral program by

offering physicians $55 for each patient steered from its website. Doctors wouldn’t receive anything if the patients were deemed ineligible for medical marijuana, according to the complaint.

Critics question the legality of such feesharing agreements.

State law says, in part, that it is unlawful to “offer or pay a commission, benefit, bonus, rebate, kickback, or bribe, directly or indirectly, in cash or in kind, or engage in any split-fee arrangement, in any form whatsoever, to induce the referral of a patient or patronage to or from a health care provider or health care facility.”

Aaron Bloom, CEO of DocMJ, filed a petition asking the Board of Medicine for a “declaratory statement” to determine whether a proposed Veriheal fee-splitting agreement violated Florida law, after the company solicited a doctor who works for Bloom’s group.

“The statute is so clearly written that it basically says nobody --- persons, companies, anything --- can pay anything of value for a referral,” Bloom, an attorney, told The News Service of Florida in a phone interview.

The board addressed the issue at an April 8 meeting in Tampa.

“You’ve answered your own question when you referred to it as a split fee,” board attorney Ed Tellechea told Bloom, whose company contracts with 45 doctors throughout the state.

But Tellechea said the board, which can issue sanctions against doctors, lacked authority to punish the online company. The anti-kickback law gives the attorney general’s office and state attorneys the power to prosecute illegal fee-splitting arrangements.

In a series of emails last week, a spokesman for Veriheal said the company could not respond to questions about its Florida activities due to the holiday weekend.

Some doctors working with Veriheal and similar companies also have conducted patient consultations via telehealth. State law requires doctors to be “physically present in the same room as the patient” and to conduct physical examinations when evaluating whether patients are eligible for medical marijuana.

Gov. Ron DeSantis temporarily suspended the face-to-face requirement because of the COVID-19 pandemic, but only for patients who were renewing medical-marijuana certifications with the

same doctors they had seen previously.

The executive order expired a year ago, and the state Office of Medical Marijuana Use’s website advises doctors that telehealth is off-limits.

“As of June 27, 2021, the use of telemedicine services to re-certify existing patients in the Medical Marijuana Use Registry is no longer allowed,” the office’s FAQ for physicians says.

But some doctors continued the practice, according to information obtained by the News Service.

For example, Ivan Fields, the CEO of marijuanadoctor.com, had a telehealth visit on March 4 with Ahsan Iqbal, a doctor he was referred to by Veriheal. The session lasted just under five minutes, a recording of the meeting provided to the News Service showed.

Florida law also requires doctors to perform a number of steps before certifying that patients are eligible for medical marijuana. Doctors have to enter information about the patient into a statewide database. The data includes the patient’s qualifying condition, dosage and the amount and forms of marijuana authorized for use.

When Fields asked Iqbal --- whose voice can be heard in the recording but whose camera was off throughout the visit --- about what products he should use, the doctor told him he would receive information from Veriheal or medicalmarijuana dispensaries.

“You have nothing to worry about.

All my patients get anything at the dispensary,” Iqbal told Fields. “We take care of everything and make it very simple, so you have access to everything possible at the dispensary.”

Iqbal did not respond to an email seeking comment.

Fields, whose company contracts with doctors in 35 locations, never followed up and did not try to obtain a marijuana ID card.

Emails obtained by the News Service showed that Veriheal was continuing to solicit doctors to conduct telehealth certifications as recently as last month and scheduling online patient consultations through June.

For example, a May 4 message from Veriheal to a Florida doctors’ group said Veriheal was “back online for Florida telemedicine for initial consults.”

A May 31 email showed that Veriheal booked a June 2 telehealth appointment

File photo

for a prospective patient with “Dr. Cannabis Consultants LLC.” “Step 1: Prepare for your video appointment and complete your consultation,” said part of the message from “Warren” at Veriheal.

In a May 21 press release, Veriheal announced that it had “reasserted its commitment to the Florida medical cannabis market by partnering with over 20 healthcare providers in the Sunshine State.”

The Florida Department of Health did not respond to questions about the telehealth or patient-brokering allegations. Attorney General Ashley Moody’s office did not say if she was aware of the complaints.

Bloom said he believes the vast majority of doctors “are doing it right and want to do it right.” But he and other industry executives are frustrated that their complaints about alleged rule breakers aren’t getting results.

“We as an industry are trying to stop this ourselves and police it ourselves. And nobody, unfortunately, wants to help us,” Bloom said. “I do think there needs to be a mechanism for the existing government agencies to enforce the law.”

Bloom also is concerned that wrongdoers could undermine the credibility of the medical-marijuana program.

“It’s incredibly frustrating for our doctors. Our doctors, they love the program because they see the amazing benefits and results that their patients are getting,” Bloom said. “What’s particularly confounding to our doctors is that there are so many rules and regulations and this program is under such scrutiny. Every year, the Legislature continuously looks for ways to regulate it. … Why is this issue, a clear violation, ignored?”

Justices reject state’s arguments in DNA dispute

By Jim Saunders Florida News Service

T

he Florida Supreme Court on Friday turned down an attempt by Attorney General Ashley Moody’s office to block DNA testing of evidence in a 1975 murder that sent a man to Death Row. The dispute was unusual, at least in part, because Moody’s office objected to an agreement that Orlando-area State Attorney Monique Worrell reached last year with lawyers for Death Row inmate Henry Sireci to allow the DNA testing.

Moody’s office asked the Supreme Court to overturn a circuit judge’s order that approved the testing. But in a onepage decision Friday, justices unanimously said they declined to “vacate the trial

court’s order and therefore affirm” it.

Sireci, now 73, was sentenced to death in the 1975 murder of used-car dealer Howard Poteet, who suffered 55 stab wounds, according to court documents.

Sireci, who has received legal assistance from a national organization, the Innocence Project, has maintained that he did not kill Poteet. He was sentenced to death in 1976.

Worrell, the state attorney in Orange and Osceola counties, agreed in May 2021 to additional DNA testing in the case. A circuit judge authorized the testing, and Moody’s office said it found out about the decision in a newspaper story.

After unsuccessfully seeking reconsideration of the circuit judge’s order, Moody’s office appealed to the Supreme Court. Lawyers in Moody’s office argued in a March brief that the state attorney

could not enter the agreement without the support of the attorney general, whose lawyers play a key role in death-penalty appeals.

“The circuit court’s order in this longfinal case violates Florida’s comprehensive statutory and rule-based scheme governing postconviction DNA testing, a scheme that balances the state and public’s interest in the finality of lawful convictions with the desire to safeguard the reliability of verdicts,” the brief said. “The state attorney could not unilaterally waive the requirements of that scheme: By statute, the attorney general serves as co-counsel in all capital collateral proceedings, and her express objection vitiated any purported agreement with appellee (Sireci).”

But Sireci’s lawyers wrote in a brief that state attorneys have discretion to allow

DNA testing in cases where inmates argue they are innocent.

“Appellant (the state) apparently disagrees with the current state attorney’s decision to allow Mr. Sireci … to conduct one final round of DNA testing before the state carries out his execution,” the brief said.

“But Florida law does not give the attorney general the right to obstruct this wellestablished exercise of official discretion.”

Evidence that would be tested by a laboratory includes such things as hairs, a bloody denim jacket and towels, according to court documents.

In 2010, Lawson Lamar, then the state attorney in Orange and Osceola counties, reached an agreement that allowed DNA testing in the case, but the results were inconclusive, court documents said.

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JULY 8 - JULY 14, 2022 | OCALA GAZETTE

FLORIDA NEWS SERVICE STATE BRIEFS

JUDGE BACKS STATE ON CITIZENS SEEKS TO HELP DEFEND INSURANCE LAW UNEMPLOYMENT PAYMENTS

A

Leon County circuit judge has backed Gov. Ron DeSantis’ administration in a dispute about a decision last year to shut off federal unemployment money for jobless Floridians.

Judge Layne Smith issued a ruling Thursday rejecting arguments that the state improperly ended participation in June 2021 in the Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation, or FPUC, program.

That program, part of COVID-19 aid, provided $300 a week in federal aid on top of the state’s maximum $275-a-week unemployment payments. The payments could have continued until September 2021, but the DeSantis administration stopped them early and said it was trying to spur people to return to the workforce.

Smith in August denied a request by 10 plaintiffs for a temporary injunction against the state, but the case continued.

In granting summary judgment Thursday to the DeSantis administration, Smith said the state was not required to participate in programs, such as the additional unemployment payments, that were part of a federal stimulus law known as the CARES Act. “Congress left it to the states to act within their policymaking discretion regarding whether and how to use the CARES Act emergency programs and benefits, including FPUC benefits,” he wrote.

“To that end, the CARES Act makes participation in FPUC voluntary; states can choose to enroll and choose to withdraw at any time, so long as they terminate their participation by providing at least 30 days notice to the secretary of (the U.S. Department of ) Labor.”

BIDEN ADMINISTRATION MONITORING NEW FLORIDA LAW

A resident talks with a television journalist in Eldorado after tornado devastated homes, businesses and apartment buildings on Saturday March 12, 2022 in Ocala. [Alan Youngblood/Special to the Ocala Gazette]

T

he state-backed Citizens Property Insurance Corp. is seeking to help defend part of a new property-insurance law aimed at curbing litigation costs. Citizens filed a motion Friday to intervene in a lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of the law, which the Legislature passed during a May special session.

The Restoration Association of Florida and Air Quality Assessors, LLC, an Orlando firm that does work such as mold testing and leak detection, filed the lawsuit May 31 in Leon County circuit court.

The challenge focuses on part of the law dealing with what is known as “assignment of benefits.”

In assignment of benefits, homeowners sign over their insurance claims to contractors, who then seek payment from insurance companies — often spurring lawsuits about claims and payments. Contractors in the past have been able to recover their attorney fees from insurers if they are successful in the lawsuits, a concept known as “prevailing party fees.”

But the new law stripped contractors of being able to recover prevailing-party fees when they are assigned benefits. Homeowners can still recover prevailing-party fees if they file lawsuits directly against insurers, but the contractors cannot.

The lawsuit alleges that the change violates equal-protection and due-process rights and denies contractors access to courts. In the motion to intervene in the case, Citizens said invalidation “of the provision would have a significant impact on Citizens.”

The motion said it could affect premiums paid by Citizens customers and could affect other policyholders across the state, who face the possibility of paying surcharges to help cover potential Citizens deficits.

The lawsuit named as defendants Melanie Griffin, secretary of the state Department of Business and Professional Regulation, and Donald Shaw, executive director of the state Construction Industry Licensing Board.

INPATIENTS WITH COVID-19 DIP BELOW 3,700

T

he U.S. Department of Health and Human Services on Tuesday released data that showed a decrease in the number of Florida hospital inpatients with COVID-19. The agency’s website said a reported 3,684 inpatients had COVID-19, down from 3,789 in a Friday count.

The data also showed 387 COVID-19 patients in intensive-care units, down from 414 on Friday.

Florida has seen increases in the number of COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations during the past two months as sub-variants of the coronavirus have spread across the state.

FLORIDA GASOLINE PRICES DIP

File photo: Rep. Joe Harding on Thursday, Oct. 7, 2021. Harding championed the Parental Rights in Education bill. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2021.

T

he Biden administration said last Friday it will monitor a new Florida law that restricts instruction on sexual orientation and gender identity in public schools.

In a statement, White House press secretary Karine JeanPierre encouraged students and parents to file complaints with the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights if they think they face discrimination. The law (HB 1557), which has drawn nationwide attention, prevents instruction on gender identity and sexual orientation in kindergarten through third grade and requires that such instruction be “age-appropriate … in accordance with state academic standards” in older grades.

Republican lawmaker titled the measure the “Parental Rights in Education” bill. Opponents labeled it the “Don’t Say Gay” bill. The law took effect Friday. “This is not an issue of ‘parents’ rights,’” Jean-Pierre said in the statement.

“This is discrimination, plain and simple. It’s part of a disturbing and dangerous nationwide trend of right-wing politicians cynically targeting LGBTQI+ students, educators, and individuals to score political points.

It encourages bullying and threatens students’ mental health, physical safety and well-being. It censors dedicated teachers and educators who want to do the right thing and support their students.”

Gov. Ron DeSantis and other Republican supporters of the bill have disputed the “Don’t Say Gay” moniker and allegations that it is discriminatory.

“Far from banning discussion of sexual orientation and gender identity, the legislation expressly allows age- and developmentally appropriate education on those subjects,” attorneys for the state wrote in a court filing this week in a case challenging the law.

“Consistent with that modest limitation, the law prohibits classroom instruction on sexual orientation and gender identity for the youngest children, neutrally allowing all parents, no matter their views, to introduce those sensitive topics to their children as they see fit.”

T

he average price of a gallon of unleaded regular gasoline in Florida was $4.54 on Tuesday, down a dime from a week earlier and down 22 cents from a month earlier, according to the AAA auto club.

Prices went down nationally because fewer people fueled up during the past two weeks. But AAA said prices could increase again. “Domestic gasoline demand dipped recently, which took some of the pressure off of pump prices,” AAA spokesman

Andrew Gross said in a prepared statement.

“About 80% of stations (nationally) are now selling regular for under $5 a gallon. But July is typically the heaviest month for demand as more Americans hit the road, so this trend of easing prices could be short-lived.” Florida hit a record average high of $4.89 a gallon on June 13.

At this time last year, the average price was $3.01 a gallon.

COURT UPHOLDS CONVICTION IN FENTANYL DEATH

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federal appeals court Tuesday rejected arguments by an Orlando man who was sentenced to 20 years in prison after he sold drugs to a woman who died of an overdose. A threejudge panel of the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals turned down a series of arguments, including that prosecutors had not proven that Jonathan Bohn sold the drugs that led to the death of the woman, identified in the ruling only by the initials L.F. A 2020 news release from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida said the 45-year-old woman overdosed after ingesting drugs that contained cocaine laced with fentanyl and heroin in December 2017.

A jury in December 2019 found Bohn guilty of distributing a controlled substance that resulted in death, the news release said. Tuesday’s appealscourt ruling said a medical examiner determined that the woman died as a result of fentanyl and cocaine intoxication.

“Viewed in the light most favorable to the government, the evidence presented at trial was sufficient to permit a reasonable factfinder to conclude beyond a reasonable doubt that Bohn distributed knowingly the controlled substance that resulted in L.F.’s death,” said the 11-page opinion by appeals-court Judges Adalberto Jordan, Kevin Newsom and J.L. Edmondson.

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JULY 8 - JULY 14, 2022 | OCALA GAZETTE

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From stopping a heart attack in its track to treating a stroke at the first sign of symptoms, our team is ready for every emergency. And, with three locations in

EMERGENCY CARE 24/7 AdventHealth Belleview ER* 6006 SE Abshier Blvd.

Belleview, FL 34420

Marion County, AdventHealth makes it convenient to access expert emergency care 24/7. So when minutes matter most, you never have to delay getting the care that can save you or your loved one’s life.

To find an AdventHealth ER near you, visit

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

AdventHealth Ocala 1500 SW 1st Ave. Ocala, FL 34471

AdventHealth TimberRidge ER* 9521 SW State Road 200 Ocala, FL 34481

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JULY 8 - JULY 14, 2022 | OCALA GAZETTE

People, Places & Things

Above and below

with Jonathan Fort The Ocala-born artist’s paintings can be seen at NOMA this summer.

By Julie Garisto julie@magnoliamediaco.com

I

n Jonathan Fort’s painting “Free Divers,” currently on display in NOMA Gallery’s “Summer in the Sun II,” pastel dapples swirl around a solitary boat with a mooring line and divers below. A white shimmer of light imitates the heavenly glow divers see from underwater.

There’s a quiet, subtly magical feeling to the work and his idyllic “Lone Boat,” also in NOMA’s summer exhibition.

When asked if the works are intended to provide a peaceful counterpoint to the sensory overload of today, Fort answers, “Yes, 100 percent.”

“I like to paint the kind of paintings where even if you’re having a bad day, they’re still good to you,” the 43-year-old artist explained.

Born and raised in Ocala, Fort has painted and created art professionally in all media for more than 20 years. For as long as he can remember, drawings and sculptures filled his household growing up.

“I grew up in a house where there were sculptures and my mom’s drawings could be found around the house, not cluttered or anything like that, but we definitely had lots of sculptures and statues around our household,” Fort reminisced.

“Then there’s me and my two brothers playing sports. We would break ‚em, and we’d have to fix

Jonathan Fort

’em. My mom made us glue ‚em back together. So, I think that being so comfortable around art and growing up around art since I was little, it’s just become second nature to me.”

After high school, Fort attended the Florida School of the Arts and studied the curriculum of 2D and 3D art. He developed a predilection for contemporary art and oils, which stain his couches and floors in his home on the outskirts of downtown Ocala.

Besides oils, he uses everything from acrylic paint to spray paint to food products when creating his pieces. He strives to exceed expectations with unconventional interpretations of his subjects and will pick up tools other than a paintbrush to apply the elements.

Drumsticks and other odds and ends have played supporting roles.

“I will paint or draw on just about anything I can,” Fort writes in his artist statement. “Whether canvas, paper, plywood, doors, walls, plastic, room dividers, etc., if it can be painted, I am happy to take on the task.”

Fort said that he enjoys painting both on a large scale and what he calls “the smalls,” affordable miniature works. He’s painted murals and photo backdrops for Silver Springs State Park, too.

Besides the Sunshine State’s theme parks, races and other tourist attractions, the real Florida, Fort insisted, can be found doing outdoor aquatic sports.

“Discovery”

Mixed Media on panel.

On display at Marion Cultural Alliance.

“Free Divers” 20 x 20 x 1.5 inches.

“Lone Boat” 26 x 20 x 2 inches.

“I go into the springs and creeks because I like to hunt for sharks’ teeth,” he said.

There’s more than aquatic tranquility to Fort’s works. Every bit as eclectic as his homestate, Fort doesn’t box himself in genre-wise.

Fort makes it easy to buy his works. He doesn’t price his pieces too high and doesn’t rely on his art alone for income. To pay the bills, he works at AMI Graphics, helping out with signage for sports franchises and other products, and manages Yamato Japanese Steakhouse in the evenings.

The busy artist sold his first piece when he was 15.

“That photograph is hanging in the Marion County Builders Association, right there next to the public library,” Fort said.

“If you go through downtown Ocala, you might see my artwork in Sushi Bistro and in Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille, The White Elephant shop and Infinite Ale Works,” he added.

In his painting “Swedish Torment,” Fort depicts a female floating in a milky bath with musicians around her. A photo of a friend lying on a bed inspired the piece. He decided to add some elements to the piece.

“You couldn’t really see much of her body in the photograph, and I said, ‘Well … what if I put you in a bathtub that’s overflowing with a symphony playing around you?’ And she was like, oh, that’s cool. I love it.”

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JULY 8 - JULY 14, 2022 | OCALA GAZETTE

Brazen Bash

O

n June 30, the Florida Department of Health in Marion County (DOHMarion) held the Brazen Bash at the Southeastern Livestock Pavilion. The free event included a rock-climbing wall, obstacle course, bungee run, food, music and giveaways.

BRAZEN is the sexual risk avoidance program in the health education branch of DOH-Marion.

The positive youth development program educates various audiences, primarily youth, about healthy decision making with a goal of building awareness, character and self-confidence.

The theme of the event was “Reaching for the Top.” Rashad Jones, owner of Big Lee’s Serious About BBQ restaurants and a star of the Food Network, was the guest speaker and shared how he rose from a homeless teenager to celebrity pitmaster.

Photos By Bruce Ackerman

Jenevieve Martinez, 11, leaps over one of the spinning arms on the Meltdown inflatable.

Ocala Gazette

Rashad Jones of Big Lee’s Serious About Barbecue speaks as Elizabeth Fulmer, 12, right, looks on.

Kaelen Shannon, 11, right, gets some help getting strapped in for the bungee run from Monica Dasilva of the Florida Department of Health in Marion County, left.

Elisha Parker, 14, on the rock climbing wall.

New this week: ‘The Sea Beast,’ early Elton John, ‘Maggie’ — credited as Reg Dwight — recorded in 1968 at age 19 with lyricist Bernie Taupin that was shelved. It had a limited release on Record Store Day in 2021, but now it will be available Friday on LP, CD and streaming.

Beatles harmonies, harpsichords and flute-like sounds permeate the album, which The Guardian says has a “naïve, endearing charm” and the title track has a trippy animated video.

— Journey’s “Let It Rain” is one of the singles ahead of the band’s next studio album, “Freedom,” set for release Friday, “that brings back the grand scale of the group’s greatest moments, along with updated and bold new directions and sounds,” says the band. It’s their first project of new material since 2011’s “Eclipse.” The new record also features the tracks “You Got the Best of Me” and “The Way We Used to Be.”

TELEVISION

This combination of photos shows promotional art for the Hulu series “Maggie,” left, the Netflix animated film “The Sea Beast,” center, and the new reality competition series “The Challenge USA” on CBS. [Hulu/Netflix/CBS via AP]

By Jake Coyle, Mark Kennedy and Lynn Elber The Associated Press undefined

H

ere’s a collection curated by The Associated Press’ entertainment journalists of what’s arriving on TV, streaming services and music platforms this week.

MOVIES

— Netflix’s “The Sea Beast” brings a “Moby Dick”-like tale down to kid size. The rollicking ocean adventure, directed by “Big Hero 6” filmmaker Chris Williams, is about an orphan British girl (voiced by Zaris-Angel Hator) who stows away on a ship hunting sea beasts. The veteran animator Williams, who co-directed “Moana,” returns to the high-seas for a swashbuckling tale made with the kind of accomplished animation often only found on the big screen. It debuts Friday.

— The Criterion Channel has a new film series sure to knock you out. “In the Ring: Boxing On-Screen” brings together 16 bobbing-and-weaving movies, from the 1927 Alfred Hitchcock silent “The Ring” to Martin Scorsese’s 1980 masterpiece “Raging Bull.” The series, streaming in July, argues that boxing and cinema grew in tandem, and

remain uniquely suited to one another. Two highlights: “The Set-Up,” Robert Wise’s sweaty 1949 noir with Robert Ryan as a washed-up boxer whose manager sets him up to take a dive; and Leon Gast’s 1996 documentary classic “When We Were Kings,” about the Muhammad Ali-George Foreman 1974 bout, the “Rumble in the Jungle.”

MUSIC

— Neil Young isn’t finished opening his vaults. On Friday, he’s releasing the shelved Crazy Horse album “Toast,” a set they recorded in 2001 at Toast Studios in San Francisco. “‘Toast’ is an album that stands on its own in my collection,” Young wrote last year. “Unlike any other, ‘Toast’ was so sad that I couldn’t put it out. I just skipped it and went on to do another album in its place. I couldn’t handle it at that time.” The seven songs on “Toast” explore a broken relationship. In the last song, “Boom Boom Boom,” Young sings: “All I got is a broken heart, and I don’t try to hide it when I play my guitar.”

— Quick, what was the name of the first album Elton John ever recorded? If you answered “Empty Sky,” close, but wrong. It’s actually “Regimental Sgt. Zippo,” a 12-track album that the then-unknown teenager John

— Writer and commentator Baratunde Thurston goes big with a region-by-region trek in “America Outdoors,” debuting Tuesday on PBS. In an effort to understand Americans’ “complicated relationship” with the natural world, the six-part series visits with people including wilderness pilots in Idaho; Appalachian coal miners who have turned to beekeeping; Black surfers in Los Angeles, and an ultramarathoner in California’s Death Valley.

Getting in touch with nature and those attuned to it proved to be one of “the best things I could do with my time,” Thurston says.

— In the Hulu comedy “Maggie,” a professional psychic who sees her own future is in for a rough romantic ride.

Maggie, played by Rebecca Rittenhouse, gets glimpses of a maybe not-so-happily-ever life after she gives a reading to customer Ben (David Del Rio). Her forecast has them married and parents, but then he moves into her apartment building with a present-day girlfriend.

Will love and, more importantly, hilarity ensue? Nichole Sakura, Leonardo Nam and Chris Elliott co-star in the 13-episode series debuting in full on Wednesday.

— Think you’re competitive? The 28 contestants on “The Challenge: USA” have already proven their mettle — in one fashion or another — on “Survivor,” “The Amazing Race,” “Big Brother” and “Love Island.” Players will face mental and physical contests in the series arriving with a 90-minute episode on Wednesday on CBS (streaming on Paramount+). T.J. Lavin hosts the first network broadcast of MTV’s international reality franchise, with “Survivor” winners Tyson Apostol, Ben Driebergen and Sarah Lacina among those vying for the $500,000 grand prize.

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‘Finding Beauty’ exhibition now on display at the Appleton

T

he Appleton Museum of Arts’ latest exhibition, “Finding Beauty,” a unique collaboration between the Appleton and the Ocala Civic Theatre, is currently on display through Jan. 15, 2023.

The exhibition merges costume drawings and more from the theatre’s production of “Beauty and the Beast” with works from the museum’s collection that inspired their design. The exhibition also includes set photos, video, a touch table of fabrics and costume embellishments, a photo op with props and more. For more information, call (352) 291-4455 or visit www.AppletonMuseum.org.

Photos By Bruce Ackerman Ocala Gazette

Mini horses, major fun!

“R

Marie Smith, 5, right, pets Apollo, a 4 1/2-month-old miniature horse, as her grandmother, Carol Hutto, center, and Geneva Tyson, 5, left stands with her.

eading With Horses” is a special event sponsored by Gentle Carousel Miniature Therapy Horses, one of the largest equine therapy programs in the world. The event took place at the Ocala Downtown Market on Thursday, June 23.

Miniature horses bring love to over 25,000 children and adults every year, including inside hospitals, hospice programs and assisted living programs, as well as aiding veterans and first responders who have experienced traumatic events.

The multiple-award-winning charitable organization has dedicated over 20 years of service to helping people.

Debbie Garcia reads the book “Hush Little Horsie” by Jane Yolen.

Photos By Bruce Ackerman Ocala Gazette

Jorge Garcia-Bengochea leads Apollo around.

Right: Lincoln Hall, 3, Holly Anne Hall, 5, Nolan Obirek, 5, and Colette Obirek, 3, (left to right) play with an oversized ball, that is a toy for Apollo.

Andrew Smith, 8, left, and his brother, Vincent, 7, right, spend some time with Apollo, a 4 1/2-month-old miniature horse.

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JULY 8 - JULY 14, 2022 | OCALA GAZETTE

Florida THE MOVIES FACTOIDS ARE BACK!

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.

The explosive return of Tom Cruise in Top Gun to the movie houses this summer has thunderously signaled the return of that beloved American ritual that we know of as going to the movies, after a two-year Covid-induced hiatus. So now, don’t try to pawn me off to “streaming” or some other blurry facsimile, give me old-fashioned celluloid, lots of previews and copious amounts of buttered popcorn.

That said, let’s revisit our area’s century-long affinity with the movies and the stars who make them.

1.

Now sixty, Tom Cruise was just 23 when he came to Silver Springs in 1985 to film parts of his seventh movie, which was: A. Rainman B. Legend C. Risky Business D. Cocktail

6.

An orphaned fawn was “star” of Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings’ The Yearling, filmed in Cross Creek in 1944. The fawn was named: A. Doodles B. Spot C. Flag D. Susie

2.

Starting in 2001, the original and sequels for the drive-in movie Jeepers Creepers were filmed in and around the historic town of: A. Belleview B. Santos C. Dunnellon D. Crystal River

7.

For 1981’s Doc Hollywood, starring Michael J. Fox, and filmed in Micanopy, the name of the town of Micanopy was changed to: A. Grady B. Grandy C. Granville D. Grandview

3.

Born in Ocala, this UF grad starred in King Rat, The Way We Were, and Stepford Wives. A local restaurant carried his family name. He is: A. Patrick O’Neal B. Mark Harmon C. MacDonald Carey D. Harry Houdini

8.

What was the rambunctious chimp’s name in the first four Tarzan movies filmed at Silver Springs?

A. Flubber B. Cheeta C. Ed D. Buddy

4.

Ocala’s John Travolta played Detective Elmer Robinson in this dark 2006 whodunit filmed in Jacksonville. It is: A. Lonely Hearts B. Basic C. Pulp Fiction D. The General’s Daughter

9.

Italian sex symbol Claudia Cardinale came to Silver Springs in 1965 to film the spy spoof Blindfold, along with her co-star, who was: A. Charlton Heston B. Don Knotts C. Rock Hudson D. Burt Lancaster

5.

A future acting legend was nominated for an Academy Award in his first movie, Rebel Without a Cause, filmed partly at Silver Springs. He is: A. Marlon Brando B. James Dean C. Sal Mineo D. Eddie Murphy

10.

The first billion dollar grossing movie filmed in Florida was this 2013 super hero flick starring Robert Downey Jr. It is: A. Avatar B. Batman C. Top Gun D. Iron Man 3

Answers are on page B7

COMING JULY 22: A Mixed Bag of Summer.

Contact Bob Hauck: bobhauck39@gmail.com

Across

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means we don’t outsource your care. RBOI is proud to be the only private facility in Central Florida that employs on-site medical physicists, medical dosimetrists, licensed clinical social workers, and nurses.

Patient-centered radiation oncology close to home The Villages 352.259.2200 Ocala 352.732.0277 Timber Ridge 352.861.2400 Inverness 352.726.3400 Lecanto 352.527.0106 RBOI.com

1 Wrap up 7 Game-watching, maybe 15 “Y Is for Yesterday” sleuth Millhone 16 One skilled at spelling 17 __ of: address words 18 Rocky time?

19 Slow-witted Bergen puppet 20 8-Down, e.g.

21 Impish 22 Boo follower 23 Key contraction 24 “Likewise” 25 Elect 26 Attributive term 28 One presented for payment 31 Driver’s aid 32 Legal show for 40 years, with “The” 36 Youngest-ever “Time” Person of the Year 39 Formal seizure 41 Tyke 44 Early Beatle Sutcliffe 45 “The Last Jedi” villain Kylo 46 Sticky substance 47 Pique 49 Tennis strategy 51 Brits’ luxury cars 52 Singer who founded a sewing company 54 Seasonal drink 55 “Romeo Must Die” star 56 Riviera resort, briefly 58 President, at times 59 “__ Wins By a Hare”: Bugs Bunny cartoon 60 Dog on a bun 61 Throw that anticipates the receiver’s timely arrival 62 Puck

Down

1 Business concerned with going downhill 2 Jets’ home 3 Great-grandmother, say 4 Nicholas II et al.

5 Round up 6 Word with chart or color 7 Actor Davis 8 2015 best-selling 20-Across 9 Full house sign 10 Bad marks 11 Touches 12 Co-Nobelist with Rabin and Peres 13 Ruling period 14 The “I” in “E.I. du Pont” 20 Hot air 26 Some saxes 27 Listed in Liverpool?

29 Cup fraction 30 NFL coach Meyer 33 Chest muscle, briefly 34 Phi follower 35 Vietnamese festival 37 Pasta order 38 Modern-day checking suggestion 40 “Nuh-uh!”

41 Citrus garnishes 42 “C’mon, I’m not that good!”

43 Italian playhouse 48 Pulitzer-winning “The Goldfinch” novelist Donna 50 Inches 51 Yankee whose #2 was retired in 2017 53 Fowl area 55 Cherokee on wheels 57 __ mater 58 Golfs on wheels, briefly

ANSWERS TO PUZZLES ON PAGE B7

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JULY 8 - JULY 14, 2022 | OCALA GAZETTE

community JULY 8-10

Citrus County Kennel Club AKC AllBreed Show

World Equestrian Center Ocala, Expo Center 2, 1390 NW 80th Ave., Ocala 8am-6pm Dogs of all breeds will be shown, from bulldogs to Bischons, Labradors to Lhasa Apsos. Saturday’s featured class will be the Best Puppy in Show.

Sunday classes will conclude with Best Junior Handler Overall. Free and open to the public for viewing; competing dogs must be officially entered. WEC has onsite food and beverage options. For more info, worldequestriancenter.com

JULY 8-10 (ALSO 13-17)

Ocala Summer Series Weeks 5 and 6- Hunter/Jumper Show

World Equestrian Center Ocala, 1390 NW 80th Ave., Ocala 8am-4pm Enjoy more weeks of horse shows sanctioned by the United States Equestrian Federation, through August. Many shows take place in the indoor arenas, with grand prix events at the Grand Arena on Saturday nights. More than $3 million in prizes will be awarded. Spectators welcome. WEC has restaurants onsite and shopping options. For more info, worldequestriancenter.com

JULY 8 & 15

Marion County Friday Market

McPherson Government Campus Field, 601 SE 25th Ave., Ocala 9am-2pm Shop locally fresh fruits and veggies, baked goods, jerky, freeze-dried treats, olive oils, seafood and more; recurs every Friday.

LOCAL CALENDAR LISTINGS

JULY 9 & 16

Yoga in the Park

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

JULY 9 & 16

City of Ocala Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting City Hall, 110 SE Watula Ave., Ocala 5:30pm

arts

JULY 7-8 (ALSO 14-15)

Ocala Summer Movie Express

Regal 16 Theaters, 2801 SW 27th Ave., Ocala Times vary, check website Family and kid-friendly movies, such as “The Lorax,” “The LEGO Movie 2,” “Abominable” and “The LEGO Batman Movie.” Tickets are $2. For more info, www. ocalamarion.com/events/ regal-16-ocalasummer-movieexpress/

JULY 6-8 (ALSO 13-15)

Summer Kid’s Film Series

Marion Theater, 50 S Magnolia Ave., Ocala Times vary, check website The series continues through August 5. Kids can enjoy movies for $3 (includes juice, popcorn and fruit snacks); $5 for adults. Upcoming family favorites include like “Sing 2,” “How to Train Your Dragon,” “PAW Patrol,” “Where the Wild Things Are,” “The Lorax” and “Gnomeo and Juliet.” Visit reillyartscenter.com/mariontickets for more info.

JULY 14-23

Family Fundraiser

Fashion Cuts Hair and Beauty Academy, 3452 NE Jacksonville Road, Ocala Noon-5pm This event is to benefit a local family in need, according to organizers, and will offer $5 barber cuts, festival braids and free snacks. To learn more, call (352) 512-0333.

Ocala Farmers Market

Ocala Downtown Market, 310 SE Third St., Ocala 9am-2pm A variety of vendors offer local fruits and vegetables, meats and seafood, fresh pasta, honey, jewelry, baked goodies, and arts and crafts. Check out some local food trucks and the occasional guest entertainer. Rain or shine; recurs every Saturday. Visit ocaladowntownmarket.com for more information.

JULY 9 & 16

Farmers Swap Meet

Rural King, 2999 NW 10th St., Ocala 9am-2pm A true farmers swap meet where chickens, goats, turkeys, rabbits and sometimes even ponies are available along with horse tack, home-grown plants, produce and hand-crafted items. Booth types vary with occasional meat vendors, food trucks and other goods. Saturdays, weather permitting.

JULY 14

Brown Bag Luncheon with author Lee Gramling

Reddick Public Library, 15150 NW Gainesville, Road, Reddick 12pm Lee Gramling is a sixth-generation Floridian who gives his stories a sense of authenticity. With scenes of cattle drives (and rustling), boom towns, shoot-outs and classic Cracker cowboys on their faithful cow ponies, Gramling’s “Cracker Western” stories will take you back into our state’s wild past.

To reserve a spot at this event, contact the library at (352) 438-2566.

Summer Sunset Polo

Florida Horse Park, 11008 South Highway 475, Ocala 6pm Tailgate next to the polo field and enjoy a unique evening out. Saturday evenings through September. Free to the public. For more info, ocalapolo.com

JULY 11

American Ranch Horse Association World Championship Show World Equestrian Center, Arena 5, 1390 NW 80th Avenue, Ocala 8am-5pm A variety of Western equestrian events are combined in the American Ranch Horse Association (ARHA) World Championship Show, such as classes and competitions in herd work, cowhorse, reining and ranch riding, along with amateur and novice classes. Free to spectators. WEC has onsite food options. See worldequestriancenter.com for more info.

JULY 17

Joe Knetsch, History Presentation

Farmers Market

Marion County Museum of History & Archaeology, 307 SE 26th Terrace, Ocala 2pm Historian and writer Joe Knetsch will be giving a presentation about his new book, “Cousin Bob.” Focusing on the story of Robert Warren, a JewishAmerican World War II hero, it was written based on Warren’s personal letters, Fort Benning reports and other historical accounts. Reception and book signing afterward; Knetsch will also have copies of several other of his Florida-based history books.

Free to members; $5 nonmembers. For more info, (352) 236-5245 or marioncountyarchaeology.com/ mcmha/mcmha.htm

JULY 11

JULY 12

JULY 14

JULY 9 & 16

government JULY 11

JULY 10

The Town Square at Circle Square Commons, 8405 SW 80th St., Ocala 9am-1pm Large selection of fresh seasonal produce from local growers as well as baked goods, plants, handmade soaps and more; recurs every Thursday.

Visit circlesquarecommons.com for more info.

Marion County Development Review Committee

City of Dunnellon City Council Meeting

City of Belleview Planning and Zoning Boards

JULY 15

THROUGH JULY 31

THROUGH NOVEMBER 6

Office of the County Engineer, 412 SE 25th Ave., Building 1, Ocala 9am Meets weekly on Mondays.

Art in the Attic VIP Event and Sale

Brick City Center for the Arts, 23 SW Broadway St., Ocala 5-7pm Join the Marion Cultural Alliance and sponsor Neighborhood Storage for this unique artists’ market, VIP reception and “sip & shop” experience on July 15. Artworks include paintings, photos, drawings and prints. Tickets are $20 for members; $25 for non-members. The event includes live music, champagne and the chance to buy part of the MCA collection. Sale dates are July 16-23 during gallery hours. See mcaocala.org for more info.

THROUGH JULY 28

Summer Spotlight XXV: Town and Country

College of Central Florida Webber Gallery, 3001 SW College Road, Ocala Mon-Fri 10am-4pm This special collection, by the Visual Artists Society, is part of its Summer Spotlight series that displays local artists’ works in a variety of mediums.

Experience the creativity and see artwork done in photographs, digital media, paintings, 3-D objects and more. For more info, cf.edu/student-life/artsand-culture/webber-gallery

Your Hometown HospiceTM

A resource for our community in providing:

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Q

uality matters. Especially when it comes to health care. Hospice of Marion County has been accredited by the Joint Commission, the nation’s highest standard, since 2011.

It has been re-accredited four times in all and earned the designation of Deemed Status during its last three surveys.

5343 SE Abshier Blvd., Belleview 5:30pm-6:30pm

A Strange and Picturesque Country: Etchings by Earl H. Reed

Appleton Museum of Art, 4333 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala Tue-Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 12-5pm Prints from the permanent collection by Earl Howell Reed. Although a largely self-taught artist, Reed’s work can be viewed in the collections of the National Gallery of Art, the Smithsonian American Art Museum and the Art Institute of Chicago. Visit appletonmuseum.org for details.

THROUGH SEPTEMBER 13

Hospice of Marion County — your local not-for-profit hospice since 1983 3231 SW 34th Ave | Ocala, Fl 34474 | (352) 873-7400 www.hospiceofmarion.com

Appleton Museum of Art, 4333 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala Tue-Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 12-5pm Professor, educator and artist Benson’s photographs represent the human search for meaning. For more info, appletonmuseum.org for details.

A Floral Retrospective by Gregory Dirr

Journey to My Soul: Landscape of My Mind by Kelley Batson-Howard

Ocala City Hall, Clerk’s Office, 110 SE Watula Ave., Ocala Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm Boca Raton artist Gregory Dirr emphasizes environmental conservation in his interdisciplinary artworks. Using paint, multi-media resources, fabric and glass, Dirr’s works is a response to the world around us. For more info, visit ocalafl.org/ artincityspaces

City of Ocala Recreation & Parks Administration Building, 828 NE Eighth Ave., Ocala Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm This free art exhibits showcases the work of artist Batson-Howard, who creates abstract works to bring beauty to the world. Her work is variable, often colorful and full of whimsy. For more info, Kbatsonart.com

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B6

JULY 8 - JULY 14, 2022 | OCALA GAZETTE

&

music nig ghtlife nightlife

JULY 6

JULY 9

Donna Sawyer

The Yellow Pony World Equestrian Center Ocala, 1390 NW 80th Ave., Ocala 6-9pm Dinner, drinks and entertainment. For details, visit worldequestriancenter.com

Joe’s Garage Band

The Town Square at Circle Square Commons 8405 SW 80th St., Ocala 7-10pm Visit circlesquarecommons.com for details.

JULY 13

Brandon Dull

JULY 7

Miranda Madison

The Yellow Pony World Equestrian Center Ocala, 1390 NW 80th Ave., Ocala 6-9pm For details, visit worldequestriancenter.com

The Yellow Pony World Equestrian Center Ocala, 1390 NW 80th Ave., Ocala 6-9pm For details, visit worldequestriancenter.com

JULY 14

Mark Raisch

JULY 8

Houston Keen

Locos Grill & Pub 3105 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala 6-9pm

The Yellow Pony World Equestrian Center Ocala, 1390 NW 80th Ave., Ocala 6-9pm For details, visit worldequestriancenter.com

JULY 15

Rick Melvern Band

JULY 8

Ecliff Farrar

The Yellow Pony World Equestrian Center Ocala, 1390 NW 80th Ave., Ocala 6-9pm For details, visit worldequestriancenter.com

JULY 8

One Flite Up

The Town Square at Circle Square Commons 8405 SW 80th St., Ocala 7-10pm Free and open to the public. Visit circlesquarecommons.com for details.

JULY 9

The Town Square at Circle Square Commons 8405 SW 80th St., Ocala 7-10pm Visit circlesquarecommons.com for details.

JULY 15

JR Lewis

The Yellow Pony, World Equestrian Center Ocala, 1390 NW 80th Ave., Ocala 6-9pm For details, visit worldequestriancenter.com

JULY 16

Fast Lane

The Town Square at Circle Square Commons 8405 SW 80th St., Ocala 7-10pm Visit circlesquarecommons.com for details.

JULY 16

Uptown Music

The Yellow Pony World Equestrian Center Ocala, 1390 NW 80th Ave., Ocala 6-9pm For details, visit worldequestriancenter.com

Mark Z

The Yellow Pony World Equestrian Center Ocala, 1390 NW 80th Ave., Ocala 6-9pm For details, visit worldequestriancenter.com

‘A FLORAL RETROSPECTIVE’ BY GREGORY DIRR NOW ON DISPLAY AT CITY HALL

By Ocala Gazette Staff

T

he exhibit, “A Floral Retrospective” by Gregory Dirr, is now on display in the Clerk’s Office at Ocala City Hall, 110 S.E. Watula Ave. It will remain on display until Friday, Dec. 9, 2022. It is free and open to the public from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.,

Monday through Friday.

Dirr lives and works in Boca Raton, FL. He is an interdisciplinary visual artist, creating work as a cathartic response to his surroundings with a focus on environmental conservation, according to the June 30 press release.

Since graduating from Ringling

Join the

Team

FULL-TIME POSITIONS

PART-TIME POSITIONS

Faculty – Cardiovascular Technology, Program Manager Faculty – Sonography, Program Manager Student Services Specialist - Citrus Trades Specialist – Carpenter/Painter Staff Assistant II – Printing & Postal Staff Assistant III - Mathematics Human Resources Coordinator Trades Specialist - Electrician Trades Specialist – HVAC Facility Worker

Adjunct – Visual and Performing Arts

College of Art and Design with a Bachelor of Fine Arts, Dirr has exhibited internationally and curated group and solo exhibitions. He is currently focusing on individual bodies of work and taking on large-scale commissions from cities and private organizations.

To learn more about the artist and to view his complete portfolio, visit www.gregorydirr.com. For more information on the City of Ocala Cultural Arts and Sciences Division, call (352) 629-8447 or visit www.ocalafl.org/artincityspaces.

NEW SHOWS ANNOUNCED! Jon Lovitz, The Rocket Man Show, Classic Albums LIVE and much more at the Reilly Arts Center!

Staff Assistant II – Printing & Postal Adjunct – Communication – Levy Staff Assistant III - Foundation Admissions Technician Public Safety Officer Testing Assistant

HOW TO APPLY

Go to www.cf.edu/jobs Select one of the following online portals Administrative/Faculty/ Adjunct Career Opportunities or Professional/Career/Part-time Career Opportunities.

Submit an electronic application, a copy of unofficial transcripts and resume online.

A copy of transcripts from an accredited institution must be submitted with the application.

3001 SW College Road, Ocala, FL 34474 CF is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Scan the QR code with your phone to view the complete lineup of events!

Tickets and Memberships at ReillyArtsCenter.com 500 NE 9th Street Ocala, FL 34470 | 352.351.1606

B7

JULY 8 - JULY 14, 2022 | OCALA GAZETTE

Transplant and people of color

By Ty Diwan, M.D. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research

D

Get the facts and help prevent hot car deaths • A child’s body temperature rises three to five times faster than an adult’s. When a child is left in a hot vehicle, that child’s temperature can rise quickly — and they could die within minutes.

• Heatstroke begins when the core body temperature reaches about 104 degrees.

• A child can die when their body temperature reaches 107 degrees.

• In 2021, 23 children died of vehicular heatstroke.

• In 2018 and 2019, we saw a record number of hot car deaths — 53 children died each year — the most in at least 20 years, according to NoHeatstroke.org.

EAR MAYO CLINIC: My wife is African American, and we just learned that she is going to need a kidney transplant. I heard that most of the people on the waitlist are people of color, and I’m wondering whether people from diverse racial or ethnic backgrounds end up having to wait longer for a transplant?

ANSWER: It is true that most people on the waitlist for a lifesaving organ are people of color. Of the more than 106,000 on the waitlist in the U.S., roughly 60% are minorities. More than 30,000 Black patients are waiting for a transplant, followed by more than 22,000 Hispanic and Latino patients.

I often am asked why people of color make up such a large share of people on the waitlist. One of the reasons has to do with the conditions that prompted the need for a transplant in the first place. For instance, there are higher rates of heart disease, high blood pressure and diabetes in these communities. Those chronic diseases can eventually lead to organ failure.

African Americans are nearly four times more likely to have kidney failure compared to white people, according to the National Kidney Foundation. Latinos, Asian Americans and Native Americans also have an increased risk of kidney failure.

Wait time for a transplant can vary depending on the area of the country and the organ needed. And while it is true that people of color may end up having to wait longer for a transplant, it is important to understand that the number of people in need of a transplant far exceeds the number of willing donors. That is true for people of all backgrounds.

Every day, an estimated 17 people in the U.S. die while awaiting an organ transplant.

Organs are not matched based on race and ethnicity.

However, people will generally have a better chance of matching with someone from a similar racial or ethnic background. The reason is that compatible blood types and tissue markers used for making a match are more likely to be found among members of the same ethnic group, according to LifeSource, an organization that assists in the organ donation process. That is why it is so important to have a diverse pool of donors.

But only about 30% of organ donors come from communities of color. Increasing the diversity of organ donors will improve access to transplants for people of color.

Signing up to be an organ donor is a simple way to ensure people who need a lifesaving transplant can get one. To sign up to be a donor, go to the Donate Life America website.

As someone needing a kidney transplant, your wife may have another option that would not likely require as long a wait time: receiving a kidney from a living donor.

Living-kidney donation is the most common type of living-donor transplant. Donors give one of their two healthy kidneys to the recipient. People only need one kidney to live a healthy, active life.

People also can donate a portion of their liver to someone in need. The donor’s liver regenerates within a matter of weeks. People can consider donating a kidney or liver to a relative, friend, acquaintance or a stranger.

All potential donors undergo a medical evaluation to make sure that they are suitable for donation. Living donors must be 18 or older and be in good physical and mental health.

Sometimes, a potential kidney donor who wants to give to a family member or friend isn’t the best match for that recipient. In those situations, paired donation is considered.

Donors and recipients are matched with other donors and recipients, creating a so-called “kidney chain.”

Ultimately, we need more people from all backgrounds to sign up to be donors. -- Ty Diwan, M.D., transplant surgeon, Mayo Clinic William J. von Liebig Center for Transplantation and Clinical Regeneration, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota (Mayo Clinic Q & A is an educational resource and doesn’t replace regular medical care. E-mail a question to MayoClinicQ&A@mayo.edu. For more information, visit www.mayoclinic.org.)

VISIT OUR EVENTS CALENDAR ONLINE OCALAGAZETTE.COM/EVENTS

ANSWERS FOR PAGE B4 1. B Legend

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B8

JULY 8 - JULY 14, 2022 | OCALA GAZETTE

THERE’S NOTHING LIKE A HOMEMADE POPSICLE ON A HOT SUMMER DAY

Appleton mobile photography contest now accepting entries

By Ocala Gazette Staff

T

he Appleton Museum of Art is now accepting entries for its 8th annual Mobile Photography Contest and Exhibition, according to the museum’s website.

Photos captured on a mobile device are eligible. Entries will be accepted July 1-July 31, 2022. Mark Anderson, a photographer and public relations specialist for Marion County, will jury submissions.

Prizes will be awarded in each category and all entries will be on view in an exhibition at the Appleton from Aug. 15-Sept. 11. The contest is open to all ages.

No experience is necessary and there is no fee to enter. Participants may submit up to two photos in each category.

Categories are listed below:

• Accidentally Awesome—“Have you ever taken a photo by accident, or

had a photo turn out unexpectedly contest-worthy? Send us your photos with a brief explanation of why and how they are accidentally awesome.”

• Nature—“Weather, wildlife, fruits, flowers and more—show us how nature has inspired your mobile photography.”

• In Motion—“Movement can communicate a sense of action or mood and help tell a story. Send us your favorite motion shots!”

• Portrait—“Use your family, friends or pets as inspiration for this category. Don’t be afraid to get creative!”

Mango is a popular lassi flavor. [Ashley Moore]

By America’s Test Kitchen A lassi is a yogurt-based drink that originated in the Punjab region of India.

Lassis are often flavored with spices or fruit -- mango is very popular. This recipe puts the flavors of a mango lassi into a smooth, sweet popsicle.

Contest information:

1 1/2 cups (10 ounces) fresh or frozen chopped mango 1 1/2 cups plain yogurt 1/4 cup honey 1 tablespoon lime juice, squeezed from 1/2 lime 1. PROCESS: Place all ingredients in a food processor. Process mixture until smooth, 30 to 40 seconds, scraping down sides of bowl halfway through.

2. FILL: Pour mixture into a large liquid measuring cup. Divide mixture evenly among ice pop molds.

3. FREEZE: Insert 1 ice pop stick in the center of each mold and seal with cover.

Place in the freezer and chill until firm, at least 6 hours or up to five days.

4. UNMOLD: Hold mold under warm running water for 30 seconds to thaw slightly.

Slide popsicle out of mold.

(For 25 years, home cooks have relied on America’s Test Kitchen for rigorously tested recipes developed by professional test cooks and vetted by 60,000 at-home recipe testers. The family of brands -- which includes Cook’s Illustrated, Cook’s Country, and America’s Test Kitchen Kids -- offers reliable recipes for cooks of all ages and skill levels. See more online at www.americastestkitchen.com/TCA.)

• Entries must be taken with a mobile device (mobile phone or tablet); photos taken with film or digital cameras will not be accepted.

• From July 1-July 31, email photos to AppletonMuseum@cf.edu; include the category in the subject line and your full name in the body of the email. Photos must be sent via email. Entries submitted by mail or through Facebook or other social media will not be accepted.

• Submitting to more than one category? Send separate emails for each category. And remember, no more than two photos per category will be accepted.

• Entries will be juried, and winning photos will be selected based on creativity, quality, responsiveness to the category and overall impact.

Winners will be notified before announcements are made on social media.

• All entries will be printed and displayed in the museum. For ease of printing, the Appleton will crop photos to square or 4 x 5 inches. There are no guarantees for special printing of panoramas.

• Photos must be tasteful and representative of the theme. Any photos or emails that do not adhere to all of the above guidelines may be disqualified at the discretion of museum staff.

All entries will be printed and displayed in the museum, with a special feature wall for winners. Regular museum admission fees apply to the exhibition, held on Aug. 15-Sept. 11. Admission is free on Sept. 3 as part of the Free First Saturday program.

For more information, email AppletonMuseum@cf.edu.

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B9

JULY 8 - JULY 14, 2022 | OCALA GAZETTE

Managing work friend betrayal

By Dr. Daneen Skube Interpersonal Edge

Q:

Someone I considered a close work friend filed an official complaint. An official investigation commenced and they found no evidence to support her complaint.

I’m heart-broken. How I work effectively with someone I trusted that betrayed me?

A: You can still work effectively when someone you trust betrays you if you realize you misunderstood the loyalty of the relationship. People who are loyal, capable of deep attachment, and authentic often assume everyone else is the same.

This is a mistake!

People betray us for lots of reasons. Your co-worker may be jealous, may have assumed you were doing something that put her at risk, or felt “the rules” required the complaint. Loyal people tend to risk having difficult conversations with people rather than jump to official complaints.

Notice all the reasons I’m listing have everything to do with your co-worker and little to do with you. Your main contribution to your heart-break is that you failed to effectively evaluate the character of your co-worker. You thought she was a better person than she is and she has now shown her true colors.

The good news is there was no evidence to support the complaint. When people file complaints and an investigation proves our innocence it reflects poorly on the person filing the complaint. Your co-worker didn’t just betray you, she alerted your teammates that she cannot be trusted. Your co-worker also undermined her credibility with management.

The best way to manage your co-worker now is to only talk to her about tasks, and timelines. Don’t be hostile or act hurt. Do not engage in any personal conversations. If she asks why you have changed say, “I learned it’s best to keep work relationships professional.”

Emulate that Star Trek species, the Vulcans, who are all about data, facts, and logic. You want to be as neutral, and task oriented, as you can. You may be tempted to be snarky or point out the investigation proved her wrong. You need to be done with her personally, not start a conflict.

When we do our jobs well there is nothing to find in an investigation. An investigation proving you’re competent does not hurt you. The fact she filed a complaint with no merit will hurt her.

In the long-run we end up with the workplace relationships we deserve. Stand back and let the consequences of your co-worker’s complaint affect her relationships with your officemates.

In the future, work harder to avoid assuming everyone you meet is as loyal, or capable of attachment as yourself. Evaluate your co-workers looking at their relationships in and out of the workplace. Pay particular attention to how they deal with conflict and whether they lean into hard conversations.

Allow yourself the luxury of observing co-workers over long periods of time before you place your trust in them. Watching how they treat others is the best early warning sign about how they will treat you. When you speak at work imagine what you’re saying was printed on an office memo because the person you’re speaking to may share this “personal” chat with everyone.

Yes, for a while you’ll feel a bit robotic around your former friend. Over time you will appreciate she taught you a painful but valuable lesson about being more discerning on who you trust.

The last word(s)

Q:

Something I thought was tragic happened to me many years ago at work, but now I can talk about it with a lot of humor. Am I just in denial?

A: Nope. Many comedians have observed that comedy is just tragedy plus time.

Once we heal from a tragedy we often have a lot of humor about our experience.

(Daneen Skube, Ph.D., executive coach, trainer, therapist and speaker, also appears as the FOX Channel’s “Workplace Guru” each Monday morning. She’s the author of “Interpersonal Edge: Breakthrough Tools for Talking to Anyone, Anywhere, About Anything” (Hay House, 2006). You can contact Dr. Skube at www.interpersonaledge.com or 1420 NW Gilman Blvd., #2845, Issaquah, WA 98027. Sorry, no personal replies.)

E

very Friday, James Blevins, this newspaper’s in-house reporter and poet—who has seen his work previously published in “Salt Hill Journal,” “Pretty Owl Poetry,” “Stoneboat Journal,” “Mud Season Review” and

“AZURE,” as well as numerous other outlets both online and in print—chooses one poem for publication.

Additionally, Blevins will share a poem of his own, just for good measure, at the end of each calendar month.

Answer July

By Emily Dickinson

Answer July— Where is the Bee— Where is the Blush— Where is the Hay? Ah, said July— Where is the Seed— Where is the Bud— Where is the May— Answer Thee—Me— Nay—said the May— Show me the Snow— Show me the Bells— Show me the Jay! Quibbled the Jay— Where be the Maize— Where be the Haze— Where be the Bur? Here—said the Year—

Emily Dickinson was born on December 10, 1830, in Amherst, Massachusetts. While she was extremely prolific as a poet, and

regularly enclosed poems in letters to friends, she was not publicly recognized during her lifetime. She died on May 15, 1886.

York: Vikings, bygone days, and a ruined abbey

The old-time sweet shop in York’s Castle Museum. [Rick Steves/Rick Steves’ Europe]

By Rick Steves

I

’m following Edwin on a walk around York -- the most interesting stop between London and Edinburgh.

Edwin is a spry retired schoolteacher who stays active by leading town walks and giving private tours. Today, he’s showing me around to illustrate why, in his mind, York is such a fascinating city.

Edwin and I head over to the York Castle Museum, where English memorabilia from the 18th, 19th, and early 20th centuries is cleverly displayed in a huge collection of craft shops, old stores, and bygone living rooms. Charles Dickens would feel right at home here. As towns were being modernized in the 1930s, the museum’s founder, Dr. Kirk, recognized a threat to their heritage and collected entire shops and reassembled them here.

In Kirkgate, the museum’s most popular section, we wander down a century-old Lincolnshire street, popping in to see the butcher, baker, coppersmith, and barber.

The shops are stocked with the actual merchandise of the day. In the confectionery, we eavesdrop on English grannies giggling and reminiscing their way through the mouthwatering world of “spice pigs,” “togo bullets,” “humbugs,” and “conversation lozenges.” The general store is loaded with groceries, the toy shop has old-time games, and the sports shop has everything you’d need for a game of 19th-century archery, cricket, or skittles.

Anyone for ping-pong? Those Victorians loved their “whiff-whaff.”

In the period rooms, three centuries of Yorkshire living rooms and clothing paint a cozy picture of life centered around the hearth. A peat fire warms a huge brass

kettle while the aroma of freshly baked bread fills a room under heavy, openbeamed ceilings.

Dr. Kirk’s “memorable collection of bygones” is the closest thing in Britain to a time-tunnel experience, except perhaps for our next destination, the Jorvik Viking Centre just down the street.

A thousand years ago, York was a thriving Viking settlement called Jorvik (YOR-vik). While only traces are left of most Viking settlements, Jorvik is an archaeologist’s bonanza, the bestpreserved Viking city ever excavated.

Sail Disney’s Pirates of the Caribbean barge north a thousand miles and back a thousand years, and you get Jorvik. More a ride than a museum, this exhibit drapes the abundant harvest of this dig in theme park cleverness. We ride a kid-pleasing people-mover for 12 minutes through the re-created Viking street of Coppergate.

It’s the year 975 and we’re in the village of Jorvik. Everything -- sights, sounds, even smells -- has been carefully replicated.

Next, our time-traveling train rolls through the actual excavation site, past the remains that inspired the reconstructed village. Stubs of buildings, piles of charred wood, and broken pottery are the timecrushed remains of a once-bustling town.

Everything is true to the original dig. Even the face of one of the mannequins was computer-modeled from a skull dug up right here.

Next, Edwin and I walk over the river toward the towering York Minster cathedral, stopping first at the romantic ruins of St. Mary’s Abbey. A fragile arcade of pointed Gothic arches seems to hang from the branches of the trees that tower above. I remark to Edwin that it’s striking how magnificently the Minster survives

while only a single wall of this abbey church still stands. Edwin explains that Henry VIII, so threatened by the power of the pope, destroyed nearly everything that was Catholic -- except the great York Minster. Thankfully, Henry needed a northern capital for his Anglican Church.

Edwin then explains the Dissolution of the Monasteries. “Henry wanted more than a divorce. He wanted to be free from the power of the abbots and the monasteries and the pope in Rome. It was our first Brexit -- and we got it in 1534.”

Then, playfully describing two (perhaps three) bombastic leaders at the same time, he says, “It was spearheaded by a muchmarried, arrogant, overweight egomaniac.”

Edwin is playing with me, alluding to my then-president, but he is also describing the pompous, pro-Brexit British politician Boris Johnson along with Henry VIII. While 500 years apart, they both wanted to “be free” from Europe (from the pope and from the EU), which also meant sending no more money to Europe (in tithes to the Roman Catholic Church back then or taxes to Brussels today). And they both wanted no more intrusions from Europe into their realm. In the 16th century under Henry and in the 21st century under Boris, for Britain, “leaving means leaving.”

Bidding Edwin goodbye, I’m reminded that the more you know about any historic town, the more interesting and worthwhile your visit becomes.

(Rick Steves (www.ricksteves.com) writes European guidebooks, hosts travel shows on public TV and radio, and organizes European tours. This article was adapted from his new book, For the Love of Europe.

You can email Rick at rick@ricksteves.com and follow his blog on Facebook.)

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JULY 8 - JULY 14, 2022 | OCALA GAZETTE