VOLUME 2 ISSUE 16
$2
Paper Thin debuts at OCT this week
OCTOBER 15 - OCTOBER 21, 2021
City ordered to pay 80 million in refunds By Jennifer Hunt Murty jennifer@ocalagazette.com eight years of litigation, Administrative Judge Robert William Hodges ordered the City of Ocala to refund approximately $80 million in a class-action suit that challenged fees added
services.
Hodges’s ruling
in response to an appellate Court’s mandate by the 5th District Court of Appeals, an unconstitutional tax. The case was remanded back to Hodges’ courtroom for the establishment of a common
fund to refund the illegally collected taxes. In 2006, the collection of
services in the City of Ocala. The fees were not challenged until 2014.
added a monthly fee to every city resident’s Ocala Electric Utility bill. It was collected until the start of this year. Every city resident who had electric service paid approximately $15
from the appellate court, attorneys for the city maintained that they were entitled to another trial to present evidence in support which would reduce how See City, page A4
Bruce Ackerman/OG
City Attorney Robert Batsel Jr. speaks during an Ocala City Council meeting.
Ocala Breeder's Sales recap By Michael Compton Special to the Ocala Gazette
Bruce Ackerman/OG
Tommy Amodeo of A&A Trucking and Excavating - The Art of Destruction, operates an excavator to demolish the gymnasium at the old Reddick High School in Reddick, on Tuesday, Oct. 12.
Historic Reddick high school demolished Once the soul of the North Marion area, the old Reddick High School is coming down. By Kassidy Hill Special to Ocala Gazette
O Bruce Ackerman/OG
Jimmy Stroup, the mayor of Reddick, holds an old Swingline stapler that was given to him on Tuesday, Oct. 12 from the rubble of the old Reddick High School.
in mid-August, with wind
Spanish moss in nearby oak trees and towards the front steps of the historic Reddick High School, around 75 Terriers gathered. They represented decades of graduating classes, familial connections and a lifetime of memories shaped by
the red bricks behind them. The group included some of the last living pupils of Reddick High School, with those in attendance stretching as far back as the 1951 graduating class. Before COVID-19 interrupted their plans, the group would meet once a year for a reunion. But on that August day, they made an impromptu exception, coming together quickly to say goodbye to their beloved school. See Schools out, page A10
Buyers of Thoroughbred horses have spent the better part of the last few months demonstrating an insatiable appetite for acquiring top-class yearlings in Kentucky and New York auction rings. This week, the trend continued in Ocala with the Ocala Breeders’ Sales Company’s October Yearling Sale, Oct. 12-13, generating pronounced increases across all key economic categories. The two-day auction, which featured a select session on Tuesday, followed by an open session on Wednesday, saw a total of 372 head sell over both days for gross receipts of $9,634,000. In the select session, 108 horses changed hands for a total of $4,714,500, an increase of 38.8% over last year’s corresponding session (held during uncertainties brought about from the COVID-19 pandemic) where 86 yearlings sold for $3,397,000. The average price was $43,648, a 10.5% hike compared with $39,500 a year ago, while the median price came in at $32,000, representing a 14.3% gain compared with $28,000 in 2020. The buyback percentage (horses not sold) was 19.4%; it was 36.3% t last year. A total of 276 head sold in Wednesday’s open session for gross sales of $5,173,500, compared to 258 horses sold for $2,811,900 in the corresponding session last year. The average was $18,745, marking a 72% increase over last year’s open session average of $10,899. The median price came in at $15,000; it was $7,500 a year ago. The buyback percentage was 18.1%, compared with 21.3% a year ago. “The market has been consistent with the rest of the year,” said Tom Ventura, president of OBS. “When you compare See OBS, page A3
County joins in paramedicine program By: Matthew Cretul matthew@ocalagazette.com
A
program designed to help mostly homebound Ocala residents struggling with new or chronic medical conditions will expand into Marion County.
The origin story Ocala Fire Rescue began their community paramedicine program in April of 2020 in partnership with Advent Health. Ocala Fire Rescue EMS Captain Jesse Blaire heads up the OFR
portion, and he said when they were coordinating and designing the program, he reached out to multiple agencies around the state to observe similar programs. people,” he said. “West Palm Beach, Manatee County, Gainesville Fire Rescue.” Blaire said because community medicine programs are so unique to the areas they serve, that “if you’ve seen one community medicine program, you’ve seen exactly one community medicine program. The people, the
stakeholders, the hospitals. All that makes each program very MCFR Deputy Chief for “We have 1,600 square miles in Marion County and based on the type of services that community across the country there's so many used here in Marion County,” he points out. “My biggest concern was how was I going to identify the most See New, page A6
Bruce Ackerman/OG
Capt. Chris Hickman checks on the inventory of medications in the Ocala Fire Rescue/AdventHealth Community Paramedicine unit.
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COVID Update ....................... A8 School Board Update ............ A9 Commentary .........................A11 New Discovery Exhibit ......... B1 Art Awards ..............................B1 Sports .......................................B9
A2
OCTOBER 15 - OCTOBER 21, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE
Bruce Ackerman/OG
Dr. James Henningsen, the president of the College of Central Florida, speaks to Florida legislators during the Marion County Delegation at the Klein Conference Center at the College of Central Florida on Oct. 7.
CF gets help with American Rescue Plan By: Matthew Cretul matthew@ocalagazette.com The Marion County Board of County Commissioners (MCBOCC) approved the use of $2 million dollars in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds for the College of Central Florida’s (CCF) proposed 3,500 square foot Health Science Technology Education Center at their regularly scheduled meeting on Tuesday. The project, CCF President James Henningsen told the board during the meeting, is expected to cost about $16 million. The school is asking for $13.6 million from the state, and $2 million from both the MCBOCC and the Marion County Hospital District (MCHD). All the commissioners expressed support for the project but were mindful of ensuring a timetable for completion and an avenue to recoup the funding would exist should the project not be completed before 2026. ARPA stipulates that all related funds must be spent or returned to the federal government by Dec. 31, 2026, a fact County Administrator the discussion. As the discussion began, previously worked as an adjunct professor at the college, announced he had terminated all formal association with the college in advance of the vote to Henningsen announcing his decision to sever the ties, and then
Minter that he would be allowed to vote should he need to, which desire to see the college complete the building. “It is a program that I believe is needed. I think we need to work with our other partners, including the [Marion County] hospital district, and I know that it's important for them [College of Central Florida] to have both [support from MCBOCC and the MCHD] so that when they go to the state, they will be able to get the additional funding. I will support this, as long as there's a timeline to show where we’re at and how it's going,” Commissioner Kathy Bryant also felt all the stakeholders in the project should come together to ensure they are all on the same page when it comes to something she believed will region. “I think the most important thing that needs to happen at this time to go ahead and move this project forward would be for the hospital district, this board, and the college to all be in the same room together in a meeting so that everyone understands what's going on,” Bryant said. “I think it’s very important that if we’re going to commit to this that we need to make sure our other partner is just as committed so that we can push the ball across the line.” Commissioner Michelle Stone suggested sending MCHD a letter from the board stating their support for the project and requesting the district “make their funding available
for the project as it’s been presented to us.” Commissioner Craig Curry also stated his support for the project, but “I'm gonna vote for it but I think, as I said, we need to be last in. We need to make sure that other entities perform before we just turn the money over,” Curry said. Marion County Clerk of Court and they should be mindful of how they designated the funds. ”On this particular item, and anything like it, the board does need to be careful about making sure there is a clear basis as far as which category of ARPA funding entitlement he said. ARPA funds have conditions on how the money can be used; it can only be used to support households, well as paying essential employees and covering the losses public services incurred. ARPA funds cannot be used to cover the costs associated with cutting taxes or used to delay a raise in taxes. Frank Mason, a partner with Carr, Riggs, & Ingram, a national CPA the county on the issue, approached the board and said he believed there were two ARPA categories the project would qualify for. Mason noted the project could response to COVID-19, or it could also be eligible because it adds employment opportunities that would
create a stronger workforce to combat the downturn in the economic system. “Timing is pivotal,” Henningsen said. “The state decisions for capital projects, those decisions were last month, and they're still waiting to hear back ‘do we or don't we have a local match on this project.’”. Not only is the timing important, but the local funding is as well according to Henningsen. “Ask any of our legislative delegation members, if you don't have a local match—a guaranteed local match—on your project, they're not going to fund it,” Henningsen stated. “That's [local funding] what got us to #2 on the priority list this year. Of all the projects in the Florida college system, across 28 colleges, we're #2 in priority because of the local match. Now if I don't have a local match, that can be a problem and they may not fund it this year.” Additionally, Henningsen pointed out the more local match funding the school secured the less the state needed to contribute. Should CCF secure funds from both MCBOCC and the MCHD, the amount the state would need to provide would drop. Rather than asking the state for $13.6 million, Henningsen said they would only need to ask the state for closer to $11 million. directed Bouyounes to send the MCHD a letter because of the possibility of having a joint workshop with the district in the future.
A3
OCTOBER 15 - OCTOBER 21, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE
“The press was to serve the governed, not the governors.”
OBS sales strong
- U.S. Supreme Court Justice Hugo Black in New York Times Co. v. United States (1971)
Publisher Jennifer Hunt Murty jennifer@magnoliamediaco.com Julie Garisto, Associate Editor julie@magnoliamediaco.com Christopher Smith, Creative Director christopher@ocalagazette.com Bruce Ackerman, Photography Editor bruce@ocalagazette.com Matthew Cretul, Senior Reporter matthew@ocalagazette.com James Blevins, Reporter james@ocalagazette.com Sadie Fitzpatrick, Columnist sadie@ocalagazette.com Susan Smiley-Height, Editor susan@magnoliamediaco.com
Continued from A1 fair (due to uncertainties around COVID-19). Those But when you compare it to 2019, the median and that’s a positive sign. “I think with this sale, there was some real depth to the market as well,” Ventura added. “We horse in the select session, did very well in terms of average and median.” Hip 67, a colt from the second crop of Midnight Storm, and Hip 442, a colt from the first crop of Ransom the Moon, each the sale. Both top sellers
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Farm, which also sold last
Terranova, agent. signed for Hip 67 in Tuesday’s select session. Mary Katherine Haire, the colt is produced from the stakes-winning Sterling Madame. The winner, Sterling Miss, an Hip 442, who sold to Redwings in the open session, is out of the Aikenite mare, Bold Lady, and descends from the prolific family of A.P. Indy. The KentuckySecretariat), Broodmare of the Year in 1992 and the dam of Horse of the Year and two-time leading sire, A.P. Indy, as well as Classic winner, Summer Squall. yearlings—Hips four and 121—fetched the secondhighest price of the sale,
leading stallion Khozan, who stands at Ocala’s Journeyman Stud. Stonehedge Farm and Bayer, agent, is out of the Wildcat Heir mare, Karen’s Wildcat, and hails from the family of Grade 3 winner, Uncle Vinny. Kantharos, sold to Finisterre Racing. Bred
Vanlangendonck), the Sunshine State product is
Bruce Ackerman/OG
The bidding rises to $29,000 on English Bob, a chestnut colt consigned by Journeyman Bloodstock Services Inc., during the OBS October Open Yearlings Sale.
produced from the Holy Bull mare, Gospel Girl, graded stakes winner and OBS graduate, Happy Farm, winner of the 2019 Fall Highweight Handicap (G3) at Aqueduct. “He is a really nice colt,” said Summerfield’s Francis Vanlangendonck. “He is an athletic colt. Kantharos gets you a racehorse, and this colt Kantharos. He is a really pretty horse.” The highest-priced filly of the select session was daughter of Kantharos who sold to Al London (Danielle Loya), the filly is out of the winning General Meeting mare, Meetmeontime, and is a full sister to graded stakes winner, Bucchero, who stands as a stallion at Pleasant Acres Farm in Morriston. The top-priced filly in the open session was Hip 406, a daughter of Ocala Stud stallion, Awesome Slew, who sold to
Acres Racing and Sales,
Bruce Ackerman/OG
Gustavo Valadez of Abbie Road Farm, Agent XVI, leads Hip 442, a dark bay or brown colt by Ransom The Moon, around the outside walking ring as he shows the thoroughbred to prospective buyers.
half-sister to multiple stakes winner and OBS graduate, Hear My Prayer, is out of the stakeswinning Songandaprayer mare, Additional Prayer. In commenting on the importance of the Ventura said, “It is very important. As a sales company, we need the strong. We can sell horses
horses here rewarded. “We’re getting over that pandemic hump, and we are moving in the right direction,” he continued. “Hopefully, the (sale) things to come.” concludes the 2021 sale schedule for OBS. The next auction will take place Jan. 25-26, 2022, when OBS conducts its Winter Mixed Sale, which will also feature a Horses of Racing Age offering.
organization accomplishment community service, athletics or other area of endeavor. Attach a photo of the individual or group • Upcoming events: Are you community event that is open organization hosting the event as description of the event, along with registration information or other important instructions. • News tips: Include whatever information you consider relevant.
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A4
OCTOBER 15 - OCTOBER 21, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE
City of Ocala ordered to refund fire fees Continuued from A1 much they had to refund citizens. The the court awarded if the fund was
"I think you start from the idea
that money and has to return it. That
have no choice in the matter,” he
manner that they did, so they had no returned." “I think that is consistent with When they remanded it to us, that wasn't remanded to determine any defenses that were not mentioned in the opinion it wasn't prepared for
Bruce Ackerman/OG
Members of Ocala Fire Rescue Station 1 work during a National Fire Protection Association 14-10 drill in southwest Ocala in this Feb. 2021 file photo.
in Florida
and then, the court determines a
mandatory.”
reimbursement, they [GrayRobinson]
undertook the case based on a [January 2021 order], the refund is
Events that led to litigation
Some citizens who paid the fees
Quanstrom, described appropriate
impression.”
refunds because they received the
When it comes to the cost of
fire service fee study from Burton fees and fire service impact fees, rather than the customary way
citizens from their city,” he said, “so
fire protection service user fee on
of the mandatory nature of the fee.”
assessments. defined the word “mandatory.” can avoid the fee either by not pay refunds into a common fund and costs. on the case when it was initiated in
Attorney’s fees
met, his report cautioned that two of
Bowen, Radson, & Schroth, for their
fee.”
from the same pot of money that the
to be reimbursed, by the carrier,
amount of those fees.because they
mandate that initiated the recent
Instead, the fees are owed by the
the city of their representation of
and demanded the city “rescind the ordinance, and any amendments days.”
services.”
members to the attorneys at Bowen
city authority to impose a fee, he authority to the city to impose a fee hired another firm, Brannock, Humphries, & Berman, and as of
provide an estimate of what those mayor.
those fees and costs. service award fees pursuant to Business Litigation
on whether it was considered a fee proposed by the city appears to be
A5
OCTOBER 15 - OCTOBER 21, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE
Continued from A5
Plaintiffs
Bruce Ackerman/OG
Tim Herff, a firefighter/paramedic, Micah Day, a FEO/EMT and Capt. Jules Bouckhuyt, left to right, all of Ocala Fire Rescue Station 1, connect fire hoses together during a National Fire Protection Association 14-10 drill in southwest Ocala in this Feb. 2021 file photo.
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A6
OCTOBER 15 - OCTOBER 21, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE
New paramedicine posts to help county residents Continuued from A1 important thing to start with and then grow it from there,” Starting out, Blaire noted, there were some included not realizing homebound patients lacked transportation or sometimes even the motivation to get
with resources if they need at expanding a community paramedicine program that
approved the creation of two positions for the program,
cases, literacy levels were an “But, since then, the whole continuum of care has made incredible progress,” Wanda Bowlin is the EMS coordinator and Emergency Management specialist for Advent Health and is the point of contact within Advent for the community paramedicine
grant from Advent Health, so the program comes with no cost to the city or the county, except incidental
boundaries will be less of an issue to delivering needed care is also exciting to
of the city, now we’ll be able to refer patients that live out in the rural areas and out further in the county into the ball with the same intent and take it to those patients that don't have the access and maybe aren't close enough for the city guys to
their portion of the program
because it's a new diagnosis, then that's the kind of patient that we're looking then we have part of Advent that sees every patient prior to discharge and they really identify ‘hey, this is a new diabetic patient, they can walking them through this transition to make sure they understand the importance of checking their blood sugar, medication compliance, attending their
can get them the help they And depending on how sick the patient is, Blaire community paramedics “Based on the patient’s acuity there's some people we see three times a week, some we see two times a Blaire also pointed out that diabetes, congestive
we were kind of struggling on basically kind of vetting what patients are appropriate for community paramedicine because we wanted to do the most we can, and we wanted to work together to help our
community paramedics go out and let's say they're
doing an evaluation, kind of a social determinants do they need assistance with their prescriptions, can we get out some discounts or prescription coupons, kinds of social barriers or personal barriers that are preventing them from caring for themselves?” Blaire noted Advent’s the patients in the program to direct them to the additional resources within “So now we encounter that person, oh you can't the literacy council; we've got United Way; we’ve got already set up ready to rock
the most common chronic sees aspects of mental health issues as well in the patients
started and appreciated the ability to make the program
When patients are newly diagnosed with a chronic illness, Bowlin said, there is also a laundry list of considerations tagging along with
Bruce Ackerman/OG
Capt. Chris Hickman checks on the inventory of medications in the Ocala Fire Rescue/AdventHealth Community Paramedicine unit at Ocala Fire Rescue Headquarters.
“Usually with a new diagnosis of a chronic illness comes medication education, followup appointments, medication compliance for patient, so they can learn why it's so important that
from the beginning it was a needed and so the intention was to get it up and running and keep it going,” he “We appreciate the support we've gotten from the board, from our freedom to take the program Bowlin said the hope is to help break the cycle of individuals winding up in the emergency room for creating that partnership so we really could access those high vulnerability patients and be able to create a program where we can help them to be able to not only provide a level of self-care that they need once they're discharged from the hospital, but also to help prevent them from having to re-admit, and to kind of guide them through their
Getting the program started with the county
community paramedics] are going to do patient assessments, they are going to look for trends, they're going to identify and educate the citizens on the disease process that they are currently dealing with or post recovery for a procedure may be that they
approval on a grant agreement with Advent
quite a bit of time educating and then doing assessments, and then connecting them
with the proper resource so that we can take care of that
utilizers are who drove the
how an individual can get
for us is the referral
“We've not only met with each other but looked at a lot of resources within the
utilize emergency services
and it's not necessarily an emergency, we want to catch them before they make that
enrollment in the program
established ties with one another, they could seek out additional ways the program could assist those enrolled by involving other
program has only been operational a short time,
Not all patients are enrolled in the program though the hospital,
She said, early on,
Bowlin remarked that the existing relationships between the stakeholders made beginning the program
process we can give them kind of the support they need through this time”
of the program, which they started gearing up for earlier this year, has been fairly seamless, and he thinks he “Honestly, we have great support from our commission, we have great and we have great support from the employees who want to be part of it,” he probably one of the easier true passion for what we were doing, and we were able to identify the need and
The program and getting patients enrolled in it in the community paramedicine program described the process of how they identify who would Perhaps a patient
individual is here multiple times throughout the they don't have access to their medication, or maybe
involved without going “We have this thing
letting them know it's a safe station where anyone with any addiction can if you're overwhelmed, anxious, or maybe addicted, station and get the help that program allows those enrolled to know that someone is there for them, and that understanding is a they know they can count on, that they can reach out to if they have any issues because they can keep the Bowlin agreed and said that dynamic between the programs was evident early “Sometimes in the beginning it was ‘how many people would really be interested?’ but people are very grateful for the opportunity to have someone, especially with times people are scared, and support that individual, and sometimes even their family
new diagnoses, if they really don't learn and follow the program, they need to be able to live with that chronic diagnosis, then they kind of get themselves
are usually the patients we that we can see the patient, work them through those three steps, and successfully And in order to graduate, noted Blaire, the patients must show improvement in how they handle their “We require that they make progress, and we hold them to some sort expectations that they're going to do what we taught Blaire explained how the program is structured and how patients move through “Phase one is meeting and understanding the three, we kind of take a step back and watch their Bowlin stated that when patients complete the program, they’re learning their new diagnosis or medication, but how to care
A7
OCTOBER 15 - OCTOBER 21, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE “A lot of times we see them for this new onset diagnosis but were able to help them in so many other ways improve their life tenfold. It's really rewarding to see the progress, to Continuued from A6
knowing that next time they go to the hospital, which is probably tomorrow, they’ll be referred right back to program.”
watch the people as they're learning to self-care.” “It usually takes a couple of visits to get to know what their problems are,” Blaire described. “It takes about a week and a half to two weeks to teach them what they need to do. And then we watch them for at least a week, usually two weeks. And so, the minimum stay in our program is 30 days, the maximum is 90 days.” Most people stay between 45-60 days. “We have some people who are recycled,” Blaire say. “Their needs are just overwhelming, so we graduate them automatically at 90 days
all stressed how important the relationships between Advent, MCFR and OFR were, and how each organization has worked well with the others. “We have wonderful relationships with Ocala Fire Rescue, as well as Marion County,” Bowlin said. “We all work very well together to care for this community, so I have no reservations whatsoever. I work with these guys on a daily basis, and I appreciate all of them and I am happy to be a part of it,” she said. “They’ve [Advent Health] been a fantastic partner,” added Blaire. Bowlin believed it was
A great partnership
because all those involved shared a common purpose. “When you get down to it, we all have the same goal. We're here to help individual just work into this news place in their life.” “You know it's great when you have a team working toward a common goal and everybody is on the same page, and everybody wants to achieve the same outcome.”
Room to grow
Despite being in its relative infancy in Ocala and Marion County, all the stakeholders involved are optimistic about the program and the care it can deliver. One means of delivering care they have utilized is telehealth, or virtual care. Blaire described how former Ocala Fire Chief Shane Alexander’s relationships with other city departments enabled OFR
Alexander coordinated with the Ocala Police Department so that when OPD upgraded their cell phones every couple of years, the old ones and their chargers were sent to OFR to be used in the program. Bowlin also mentioned how Advent was able to secure iPads through a grant program so the community paramedics will have a virtual connection to providers and clinicians should they need to use it. Each of the stakeholders involved is already looking ahead to how the program can be further developed. “We aren't ruling out growth,” Blaire declared. “We want to get really good that what we're doing now and then think about expanding.” Bowlin is anxious to grow the program as well. “I'm really excited that we're service to more people.”
Even though MCFR is just getting their program eager for the program to grow. “I plan to put another unit in service with two more people on it as fast as I can get it up and going. We currently run six battalions, and we'd like to have one in each battalion. That way, geographically, they can serve the community and it would cut down on travel time.” Blaire pointed out the brings, but he said the cost savings are only part of how community. “We save about 60 EMS responses per quarter, so that's 240 calls a year. A call costs $750. That’s a yearly savings of $180,000…but what a lot of people don't understand is the cost of not doing anything far, far outweighs whatever you would spend right now.”
State News Florida fines key county $3.5 million for mandating vaccines By Anthony Izaguirre and Mike Schneider Associated Press Florida has issued its
political strategy," he said. Democratic lawmakers from Tallahassee derided the
says violated a new state law banning coronavirus vaccine mandates and
saying local governments should have the authority to protect their
failed to get the shots. The Florida Department of Health on Tuesday issued the
"Unbelievable! We don't need the state bullying our communities or private businesses who are simply trying to serve the people and get on the other side of this pandemic," said Florida Sen. Loranne Ausley. In Texas, Gov. Greg Abbott issued an executive order Monday barring any entity, including private business, from enforcing a COVID-19 vaccine mandate on workers and called on state lawmakers to pass a similar ban into law. At the White House on Tuesday, Press Secretary Jen Psaki compared the actions of the Florida and Texas governors. "Governor Abbott's executive order banning mandates and I would also note announcement by Governor DeSantis this morning, essentially, banning the implementation of
Leon County, home to the state capital, saying the municipality violated Florida's "vaccine passport" law, which prohibits businesses and governments from requiring people to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination. "These are people that, presumably, have been serving throughout this whole time and now all of a sudden they're basically getting kicked to the curb," Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis said at a news conference in St. Pete Beach. Later, the governor tweeted, "No one should lose their jobs because of COVID shots." last month and can per violation. It is being challenged in court Biden administration order that companies with more than 100 employees require their workers to be vaccinated or face weekly testing. In a statement, Leon County Administrator Vincent Long said the county believes its vaccination requirement necessary to keep people safe. "The governor's position in this instance unfortunately appears to be less of a public health strategy and more about
pattern that we've seen of putting politics ahead of public health," Psaki Leon County comes a Sentinel reported the state of Florida is investigating dozens of local governments, performing arts centers, the Miami Marlins, a law enforcement counterterrorism unit and a concert by singer Harry Styles for suspected violations of the law.
Around 120 cases are being reviewed for violations, according to a public records request from the Orlando Sentinel. In central Florida, the list includes Orange County government; the Orange County Convention Center; AdventHealth, one of the state's largest health care systems; several performing arts venues; and the Amway Center, which is home to the Orlando Magic and recently hosted a concert by Styles whose tour mandated that attendees either be vaccinated or have a negative COVID-19 test. "At this point ... the courts have not reached but the indication is that the Florida law Florida Constitution and perhaps in the face of common sense," Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings told the newspaper. In South Florida, those being investigated by the Florida Department of Health include the Marlins, the only major sports team on the list; the city of Miramar; the Plantation Police Department; and several performing arts venues. Also on the list, around the state, are a Florida Department of Law Enforcement counter-terrorism unit in Jacksonville; the Gasparilla Music Festival in Tampa; and Gainesville Mayor Lauren Poe. Several cruise ship companies also made the list despite a federal court order that has prevented enforcement of the law against Norwegian Cruise Lines.
DeSantis Adds to Lead in Money Chase By Jim Saunders News Service of Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis’ political committee continued to rake in money in September, collecting about $5.47 million as he gears up for a 2022 reelection campaign. DeSantis added to his huge fundraising lead over Democratic gubernatorial candidates Charlie Crist and Nikki Fried, according Tuesday on the state Division of Elections website. Crist, a St. Petersburg congressman, collected about $654,000 for his campaign account and political committee during the month, while Fried, the state agriculture commissioner, brought in about $350,000. The committee Friends of Ron DeSantis had about $58.3 million in cash on hand as of Sept. 30 and raised $51.4 million during the It raised more than $5 million in six of the months. DeSantis, who is widely speculated as a 2024 presidential candidate, has been able to tap large and small donors from Florida and other parts of the country. As examples, large contributions in September included $100,000 from a Florida Chamber of Commerce PAC; $50,000 from Charter Communications; $50,000 from the Committee of Safety Net Hospitals of Florida; $50,000 from Liberty Dental Plan Corp.; and $50,000 from TECO Energy, Inc., according to the report. The committee spent $228,814 during the month. DeSantis has not opened a personal campaign account for the 2022 race, but that will provide another avenue for him to raise money. Crist, a former Republican governor who became a
Democrat, and Fried are raising money for committees and campaign accounts. The committee Friends of Charlie Crist brought in $306,750 in September, while the Crist campaign account collected $347,479, the reports show. The committee had about $2.1 million on hand as of Sept. 30, while Crist’s campaign account had about $724,000. Meanwhile, the Fried committee, known as Florida Consumers First, collected $194,949 in September, while her campaign account brought in $155,943. Florida Consumers First had about $2.38 million on hand as of Sept. 30, while Fried’s campaign had $665,000. State candidates, committees and parties faced Among other statewide candidates: --- Republican Attorney General Ashley Moody raised $342,355 in September for her political committee, Friends of Ashley Moody, and $360,640 for her campaign account. The campaign total was bolstered by a $100,000 contribution from the Republican Party of Florida, which also picked up in-kind expenses for such things as --- Republican Chief Patronis’ political committee, known as Treasure Florida, raised $180,750 in September, while his campaign raised $21,830. The committee also received a $50,720 in-kind contribution of such things as lodging and food from Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. --- Republican Agriculture Commissioner candidate Wilton Simpson, the Senate president from Trilby, raised about $495,000 for four political committees he leads, while also moving money among the committees. Simpson also raised $110,310 for his campaign account.
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OCTOBER 15 - OCTOBER 21, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE
New drive-thru Covid testing site opens in S.E. Ocala Partnership between the state health department and testing facilities helped make it happen By Matthew Cretul matthew@ocalagazette.com The Florida Department of Health – Marion County (FLDOH-MC) partnered with Covid Test Florida, First Baptist Church of Ocala and Marion County Emergency Management to open a new, free drivethru testing facility in Ocala earlier this week. The new testing site on the campus of the First Baptist Church of Ocala opened on Monday, Oct. 11 responders and veterans, as well as same and next-day PCR testing options for a fee. “It is partnerships like these that help demonstrate Marion County’s many strengths,” said Department of Health in Marion County Administrator Mark Lander in a press release announcing the partnership and new site. Kayla Hall, the director of marketing for Genesis Reference Labs, the company working with Covid Test Florida to test the samples, is excited about the partnership and
said everybody at the site is “ready and eager to serve the community.” Dr. Dave Kuhn, who is working with Covid Test Florida, said the site startup on Monday “went very smoothly…we have streamlined our process of getting the customers through the registration and tested in a quick and timely fashion.” Students and employees of Marion County public schools who require tests are referred to the FLDOH-MC for testing options, and the FLDOH-MC in turn refers individuals in need of a test to one of the two testing sites in the county. “When students (and their parents and guardians) receive paperwork from the school health clinic, these documents encourage them to call the Florida Department of HealthMarion County for testing site dates, times and locations (because they vary),” said Kevin Christian, a spokesman for MCPS in an email. In addition to the First Baptist Church site, the testing at the Florida Horse Park.
Marion County Public Schools COVID numbers dropped 56% from last week By Matthew Cretul matthew@ocalagazette.com MCPS recorded 49 total new cases for the as 44 students and five employees were confirmed COVID-19 positive by the Florida Department of Health in Marion County. The figures, released Monday afternoon, are down from the 86 cases reported on Oct. 1, and 157 cases reported on Sep. Quarantine numbers were down as well, with MCPS reporting 173 students and employees were quarantined due to direct contact with someone testing positive for COVID-19. The quarantines included 171 students and only two district employees. Parents continue to opt their children out of facial coverings, however. MCPS reported 9,507 opt-out form on file, which allows them to not wear a facial covering. Not only are cases dropping in county schools, but also around the county as well. Marion County’s COVID numbers as a whole fell last week. The cases, according to figures released by the Florida Department of Health
Friday evening, down from 614 cases the previous week and the lowest number of reported cases since the week ending Jul 8. The county positivity rate and cases per 100,000 fell as well. The positivity 100,000 went from 164.8 to 114.6. The state overall of COVID-19 during the week of Oct 1 to Oct 7, its lowest number of new weekly cases in more than four months. Vaccination rates dropped to their lowest levels in three months as well, however, as the state recorded doses. Further, county hospitalization numbers dropped along with the number of cases. Health and Human
According to the FLDOH-MC, Statlab Mobile, a COVID-19 mobile clinical testing service, is testing from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. every Monday through Thursday at the Florida Agriculture Center and Horse Park, 11008 South Hwy 475, Ocala. People who would like to be tested must enter through the County Road 475 public entrance. The FLDOH-MC will continue to test at the Florida Horse Park site “as long as the demand for testing warrants keeping the site active,” said William Thompson, a spokesman for the FLDOH-MC. “As of now, we don’t have a projected end date.” Covid Test Florida signed a six-month agreement with First Baptist Church, and while COVID numbers in Marion County, and the entire state, have been trending down in recent weeks, Kuhn says the new
occupied, and COVID-19 those in the ICU.
options on receiving testing results. Same-day results incur a $100 courier fee for the general public and a $50 fee for students, teachers, veterans. Next-day results incur a $50 courier fee for fee for students, teachers, veterans. Two day results public and free for students, and veterans. According to the FLDOH-MC, individuals should bring a valid photo ID. Minors under age 18 will only be tested if they are accompanied by a parent
or legal guardian. People should be prepared to stay in their vehicles while awaiting testing; restroom facilities will not be available. Only people who are being tested should be in the vehicle, with the exception of parents, guardians or caregivers. No pets are permitted in the vehicle during tests. Testing will be available at First Baptist Church of Maricamp Road from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday. For more information, call the Department of Health in Marion County 8430.
Marion’s COVID numbers fall once again as delta moves on By Matthew Cretul matthew@ocalagazette.com Marion County’s COVID numbers fell last week. The county registered to figures released by the Florida Department of Health Friday evening, down from 614 cases the previous week and the lowest number of reported cases since the week ending July 8. The county positivity rate and cases per 100,000 fell as well. The positivity
to 114.6. The state as a whole
the county occupied, with COVID-19 patients
of COVID-19 during the week of Oct. 1 to Oct. 7, its lowest number of new weekly cases in more than four months. Vaccination rates dropped to their lowest levels in three months as well, however, as the state recorded
inpatient population. Additionally, ICU numbers dropped
doses. Overall county hospitalization numbers dropped along with the amount of cases. Health and Human of all inpatient beds in
100,000 went from 164.8
New reported COVID-19 cases per week 2,500
all ICU beds are occupied, and COVID-19 patients in the ICU. Last week, occupied, and COVID-19 those in the ICU. Marion County Public Schools are expected to release their next round of COVID-related data on Monday, Oct. 11.
Aug. 27:
3,500
3,228
3,000
Oct. 8:
427
2,000 1,500
inpatient population. Additionally, ICU numbers dropped
in the ICU. Last week,
two-day testing the site
centralized testing location and is “equipped and ready for much higher volume should the community face another surge this winter,” Kuhn said. In addition to the free
of all inpatient beds in the county occupied, with COVID-19 patients
all ICU beds are occupied, and COVID-19 patients
Bruce Ackerman/OG
Vehicles line up during COVID-19 testing in the parking lot of the First Baptist Church.
1,000 June 25:
97 0
500
25
2
9
16
23
30
JUNE JULY Source: Marion County Health Department
6
13
AUGUST
20
27
3 SEPT.
10
17
24
8 OCT.
Christopher Smith/OG
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OCTOBER 15 - OCTOBER 21, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE
Marion County School Board Wrap-up Bruce Ackerman/OG
School board member Don Browning speaks during a meeting at the Marion County Public School Board meeting on Sept. 7.
By Kassidy Hill Special to Ocala Gazette The Marion County School Board received a long introduction to their newest member Donald Browning, who asked for ample discussion on a number of issues during the Oct. 14 school board meeting. Browning, who was appointed by the Governor’s office after Beth McCall resigned, asked for nine items to be pulled from the consent vote for further discussion. Much of Browning’s concern with each issue revolved not around what was on the docket itself, but with overarching concerns around certain programs. The first point of contention came when Browning wanted to discuss a vote on what was labeled, “Renewal of the Early Childhood Music Education Incentive Pilot Program at Fort McCoy School, Ocala Springs Elementary, and ReddickCollier Elementary.” The program oversees “implementation of a comprehensive music education program for students in Kindergarten through second grade.” This had been voted and approved by the board before; the vote was primarily in relation to the approval of the grant that funds the program, as board member Eric Cummings repeatedly pointed out during discussion.
Browning One parent simply wanted to use the wanted to provide opportunity, though, support to the school “I am in favor of parts of to express concerns board in any future this. I am very against with the music decisions that needed parts of this; extremely program overall, to be made concerning specifically the against the two-year part.” curriculum. program’s reach to After becoming two-year-olds and familiar with his -Donald Browning what is described as child’s curriculum “needy families.” during quarantine, the “It seems like parent—representing a you’re lamenting the larger group—wanted project for Belleviewneed that we’re seeing for to assure the board they Santos Elementary agreements like this, no would have support “to School. Browning was matter where the money make educational decisions uncomfortable with the is coming from,” noted to promote American budget—$184,960—going Chairwoman Nancy values and unity,” said the towards fencing alone, Thrower. parent. allowing the school to “I am in favor of parts “Our goal is to ensure look like a “detention of this. I am very against our schools remain facility.” As board member parts of this; extremely institutions of learning, Allison Campbell pointed against the two-year part,” not institutions for out, however, that responded Browning. programming,” the parent money stemmed from “I’m just extremely added an educational facilities against it. I’m also A second concerned security grant, so the extremely against… citizen asked for school money could only be used designating needy families board meetings to be for educational facility and going into the home. I moved to an auditorium so security. think it’s way beyond our more citizens could attend, She went on to point scope.” demanded to know what out as well, that BelleviewThe measure did happened to taxpayers Santos Elementary School eventually pass 4-1. But dollars if a child was pulled is the only school under the the tone was set for the from school to be homeboard’s purview that is on a meeting, as Thrower and schooled and directly major highway, specifically Cummings pointed out addressed King multiple U.S. Highway 441, opening more than once the ability times about an alleged it up to wanderers. to speak to each other’s “push” for three year-old Board member Kelly offices at any time, so as schooling. After being King interjected she felt to avoid extra discussion reminded it was strictly a uncomfortable exposing on the floor. Browning public comment time, not a weaknesses to the public maintained discussion on question-and-answer time, and Thrower concurred, the floor was the only way the gentleman left. adding that if documents the public heard about However, King did are reviewed ahead of time certain measures. address his question during to understand the points “I can get it that way, I her public comments, Campbell made, then the can get it this way. I prefer explaining a program had weaknesses never have to to get it this way…I think been suggested by the be discussed publicly. it’s important the public Superintendent and her And as for the public hear it,” said Browning. team, to revitalize an empty themselves, there were There was discussion school building—Evergreen three members who asked amongst the whole board Elementary School—for to speak before the board. concerning the fencing community programs,
which included a program option for three-year-olds. It would primarily be around music programs and phonological learning, according to King. She said she heard the pitch the same time the other board members did at the last meeting and wasn’t opposed to the idea. The final public commentor of the evening was a parent who serves on the school advisory board at North Marion High School and was concerned with new building plans for the school’s reconstruction. The plans include reimagining part of the kitchen as an ESE classroom, a program North Marion no longer has, as well as creating resource rooms in a multipurpose space which are counterintuitive to how classrooms are now structured. The plans—which also include auditorium designs that aren’t conducive to auditory needs—were described by the citizen as not fitting the needs of the students. “It seems like a big waste of taxpayers’ dollars to do a building plan that doesn’t serve the school’s purposes,” the parent noted, and asked the school board to investigate the issue and help cut through the red tape. Her request garnered an immediate response, as the board decided to investigate the plan, where it came from as well as the stakeholder input.
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A10
OCTOBER 15 - OCTOBER 21, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE
Schools out at Reddick High Continuued from A1
Bruce Ackerman/OG
A basketball hoop and backboard can be seen inside the gymnasium as A&A Trucking and Excavating - The Art of Destruction demolishes the gymnasium.
Bruce Ackerman/OG
Above: Annabelle Leitner, who was a student at the school, takes pictures as the gymnasium is demolished. Right: Tommy Amodeo of A&A Trucking and Excavating - The Art of Destruction, operates an excavator.
Humane Society of Marion County to expand with new surgical center and clinic By James Blevins james@ocalagazette.com
Bruce Ackerman/OG
The Humane Society of Marion County (HSMC) will be expanding its current building at 701 N.W. 14th Road with a 5,325-square-foot addition.
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OCTOBER 15 - OCTOBER 21, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE
Commentary
Putting the money where the problem is Editor’s Note: Sadie Fitzpatrick uses this space to explore the character and quirks that make Ocala uniquely wonderful and occasionally irksome.
were taken by local
Karla Grimsley Greenway,
to address dire social issues
shelter at Interfaith
Ocala Police We’ve all done it— arrest those found daydreamed Sadie Fitzpatrick about what streets and in Columnist we would do the doorways of if we won the lottery. Pay area businesses was found that two-week vacation. Give money to your church
court. Laws and ordinances will not end the homeless
Buy that ridiculously fancy car.
to better fund the non-
would include restrooms, showers, a laundry area, a kitchenette and two small would create a central access to obtain the services they assistance, mental health
would ideally be located
the Marion County Board of County Commissioners
income communities. For committed nearly $72 million
which the facility would be built. Additionally, it would for salaries, taxes and Utilities and liability insurance would run
facility would be to ensure the needs of each individual
to use—or have already used—funds to alleviate
underserved communities in and services for the homeless. Meanwhile, Boston,
Fiscal Recovery Funds homelessness. Over the last few decades, Ocala has worked tirelessly
center annually.
economic sectors to the level
as they allocate the $71 the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), the $1.9 trillion
other services for individuals
relief funds to address our homelessness issue would allow us to take care of our
vouchers and assistance
our trajectory toward overall economic, cultural and social success.
We have $71 million that could be used to alleviate
discussions on the homeless issue, namely in the 2019
our community, namely homelessness and substance
Institute of Marion County
who need it most. Over the last year, Ocala’s homelessness issue has come to the forefront. Measures
recommended as a way to
the once-in-a-lifetime term investment in these underserved individuals, and our beloved Ocala.
Have your own observations Bruce Ackerman/OG
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Homeless people sleep and rest in the Agape Garden at Interfaith Emergency Services in this file photo.
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A12
OCTOBER 15 - OCTOBER 21, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE
Marion delegates meet to hear local agendas By Matthew Cretul matthew@ocalagazette.com The Marion County Legislative Delegation held a public hearing at the College of Central Florida (CF) on Thursday Oct. 7 to hear from local constituents and organizations ahead of the next legislative session, including a proposed Downtown Ocala Event Zone and a new health science center to expand CF’s nursing program. The delegation is made up of members of the Florida Legislature whose districts include portions of Marion County. “The legislative delegation holds a public hearing each members of the public, and other interested parties the opportunity to present legislative proposals or express opinions on state issues,” said delegation chair Jennifer Bradley in a prepared statement. With more than 100 people in attendance, State Senators Jennifer Bradley (R-Fleming Island), Dennis Baxley (R-Ocala), Keith Perry (R-Gainesville) and State Representatives Joe Harding (R-Williston), Yvonne Hayes Hinson (D-Gainesville) and Stan McClain (R-Ocala) heard from multiple groups and individuals on their priorities related to numerous issues. Marion County Commissioner Kathy Bryant addressed the delegates and highlighted nine priorities she hoped they would consider,
including funding CF’s proposed Health Science Technology Education Center. Marion County Public Schools Superintendent Dianne Gullett, School Board Chair Nancy Thrower and board members Allison Campbell and Kelly King priorities of the board, including expanding student access to technical and vocational programs and increasing transportation funding. Ocala City Councilman Jay Musleh emphasized multiple priorities, including the Downtown Ocala Event Zone, which would allow for the sale and consumption of alcohol by licensed vendors in a events. The delegation voted 6-0 to move forward with the Downtown Ocala Event Zone bill. Musleh also highlighted some of the city’s other housing and addressing opioid addiction. The delegates also heard from local entities and organizations including CF, the Ocala Metro Chamber and Economic Partnership, the Fort King Heritage Foundation, the Community Foundation Ocala/Marion County and others. Individual citizens also addressed the delegates on subjects ranging from vaccine mandates to critical race theory in schools. The next regular session of the Florida Legislature will convene Jan. 11 in Tallahassee.
Bruce Ackerman/OG
Top: Rep. Yvonne Hayes Hinson, Rep. Stan McLain, Rep Joe Harding, Sen. Jennifer Bradley, Sen. Dennis Baxley and Sen. Keith Perry, left to right, listen to speakers during the Marion County Delegation. Above: Nancy Thrower of the Marion County Public School Board, holds photos of Don Browning, left, and Eric Cummings, right, both members of the Marion County Public School Board, who could not attend the event.
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B1
OCTOBER 15 - OCTOBER 21, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE
People, Places & Things
Creepy
Crawlers!
Discovery Center of Ocala presents its latest exhibit “Amazing Arthropods”
By James Blevins james@ocalagazette.com hey’re creepy! They’re crawly! And a lot of them are pretty gnarly! They’re arthropods! —And kids love them. The Discovery Center of Ocala’s newest exhibit, “Amazing Arthropods,” opened on Oct. 9, and the kids came out in droves on a Saturday morning to see the creepy crawlies in action. Kate Messenger, manager of the Discovery Center, said that somewhere between 75 and 100 people came out on opening day, which is saying a lot for a classification of invertebrates she thinks have gotten kind of a bad rap. “Everybody loves butterf lies, dragonf lies, that kind of thing,” explained Messenger, “but arthropods are so much more than that. They’re such a diverse classification. You have a whole range of animals, and I think they’re all amazing!” Arthropods include the aforementioned butterflies and dragonf lies, but the classification also includes many phyla and subphyla that contain spiders, scorpions, millipedes, shrimp, crabs, mantises, beetles, wasps, moths and f lies, just to name a few. “A lot of people think arthropods are interchangeable with insects. So, it’s really cool that people can make the connection that it’s more than just a grasshopper. It’s not just a butterfly. Crustaceans are arthropods, too,” said Messenger. The center’s new exhibit, which runs through to Dec. 30, gives kids and their parents a chance to learn about a variety of different arthropods at hands-on stations, including a live bug zoo for viewing such creepy crawlers as a Malaysian Forest scorpion and a Goliath bird-eating tarantula. Other activities include fossilized arthropods to examine, an insect creator station, a crustacean claw game, a metamorphosis puzzle game, a butterfly dress-up area and a larger-than-life beehive to climb on. “There are little activities that are all based around arthropods,” Messenger explained. “We do a lot of research. We design everything, pull all the information [for each activity] and put it all together ourselves.” The center, located on 701 N.E. Sanchez Ave., does four exhibits each year—developed in-house—using its 5,000-square foot exhibition hall on the second f loor of its building. Each quarterly exhibit features a completely different theme. Messenger said that “Amazing Arthropods” took roughly a year from conception to installation to pull off. “That being said,” she added, “we’re usually planning multiple exhibits at a
Top: Some of the interactive stations are shown at the Amazing Arthropods exhibit at the Discovery Center. Above: Alyssa Ferguson, left, helps Alison Fernandez, 3, Titus McClain, 1 1/2, and Marie Ferguson, 4, left to right, rock in a spider see saw. Left: Marie Ferguson, 4, watches as a butterfly made from two coffee filters flies up in the air flyer tube.
See Discovery Center, page B2
[Bruce Ackerman/OG]
MCA awards arts heroes The Marion Cultural Alliance salutes hard-working volunteers and their artful contributions. By Eadie Sickler Special to the Ocala Gazette
On Sunday, 185 Ocala art and culture enthusiasts gathered to recognize 2021’s standout talents at an awards event hosted by the Marion Cultural Alliance (MCA). The “Applaud the Arts” ceremony recognized individuals who have positively impacted the arts and culture in Marion County throughout the past year. A champagne brunch at the Ocala Civic Theatre on East Silver Springs Boulevard commemorated the honorees’ achievement. Duke Energy, Floyd
See Applaud the Arts, page B2
Arts Educator Award Brooke Hutto Bruce Ackerman/OG
Service Award Leppert family. Bruce Ackerman/OG
Vision Spirit Ken Colen Bruce Ackerman/OG
Spirit Award Gerald Ergle Bruce Ackerman/OG
B2
OCTOBER 15 - OCTOBER 21, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE
Discovery Center hosts interactive learning exhibit Continued from B1 time because it’s an ongoing thing.” Marion Rotary Duck Derby, Ocala Electric Utility, Brick City Pest Control, Fun4Ocala Kids and the Discovery Center Foundation are all sponsors of the current exhibit. “Brick City Pest Control sponsored a little area with termite information and like…you can build a termite, which I thought was really funny and just perfect,” said Messenger “They just got it.” She also explained that the center is quite popular with parents who homeschool their children. Parents and teachers alike use exhibits like “Amazing Arthropods” as lesson plans or interactive field trips. Visiting the center for the first time on Oct. 12, Elaine DeIorio McClain, who homeschools her daughter, Adelaide, 4, thinks the Discovery Center provides amazing opportunities for her children to engage with many of the key STEM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics). “It does a great job of providing and teaching material through fun activities,” McClain said. The Discovery Center offers an array of weekly science classes for ages 2 to 12, drop-in programs, Saturday programming and two summer camps. “Here [at the Discovery Center] it’s hands on engagement,” said Messenger. “It’s not a work sheet. We’re really here to spark curiosity.” For center hours, admission prices, members and family rates, call (352) 401-3900 or visit www.mydiscoverycenter.org.
Above: Marie Ferguson, 4, front, and Alison Fernandez, 3, "fly" through the Log O' Bugs tunnel with their butterfly wings. Left: Titus McClain, 1 1/2, is silhouetted as he plays on the Giant Light Bright. [Bruce Ackerman/OG]
Applaud the Arts award winners honored Continued from B1 Hershberger and BJ Trophies presented the event.
ARTS EDUCATOR AWARD
recognizes an arts educator who utilizes the arts as a tool to stimulate learning. This award honors Brooke Hutto, nominated by Joanne Crowder, Fine Arts Program Specialist for grades K-12, in the Marion County School District. Hutto, for the past 15 years, has been teaching music to children of all ages and abilities. She is the K-5 music teacher at Harbourview Elementary School and president of the Marion County Music Association. She organized two large-scale county events: the Charlie Dixon Music Festival and the Marion County Elementary Honor Choir, involving more than 1,000 students and their parents. These performing in public venues like the Reilly Arts Center. students with special needs led to her becoming a state-wide presenter with Arts4All Florida, an organization whose mission is “to provide, support and champion arts education and cultural experiences for and by people with disabilities.” “I am shocked, surprised and very honored, and appreciate receiving this award,” Hutto said. She added, “The only thing I would like people to know is the students of all ages, and the impact the referendum has made for us to be able students.”
SERVICE AWARD
highlights an individual for their dedicated volunteerism in the arts and contribution to the entire arts community. This year, thi s award category is a little varied. Nominator Katrina Ploof, Artistic Director of the Ocala Civic Theatre (OCT) —using a unique ABC format— showed why the entire Leppert family was chosen for this award instead of one individual. The family, including grandmother, Phylis; father, Philip; mother, Sarah; children David, Rebekah and Jonathan, have all been extremely invested in the operation of the theater. A for Acting—Philip, David, Rebekah and Jonathan have performed in more Phylis and Sarah have logged more than 1,000 hours helping with ticketing, reservations and patron relations; C for Concessions—Phylis, Sarah and Philip have all volunteered in the concession stand for hundreds of hours; D for Dresser—Sarah has volunteered as a dresser backstage for several shows and Rebekah now works part-time in the costume shop as a designer and seamstress; E for Education—David has taught for several years as part of the education team; F for Fund Raisers—The
speech. Jumping ahead in the alphabet just a bit, to the letter L, for Light Board Operator—Sarah, David and Jonathan have all run the light board; O for Overtime—the Lepperts are always the last ones to leave the building when there is work to be done; S for Stage Crew—the Lepperts have been on so many stage crews, the theater stopped counting when it reached 50. What dedication! “My mother and father led by example regarding their public service and commitment to the arts,” Philip Leppert said. “My wife and I have tried to lead in that value so our children will continue to give back to the communities of which they are a part.”
VISION AWARD
is presented to an individual or organization in Marion County for outstanding advocacy of the arts. Nominated by Margaret Spontak, the award went to Ken Colen, president of On Top of the World Communities. Spontak is also the retired director of Master the Possibilities public learning center at OTOW. “He (Colen) is so supportive of the arts in Marion County across the board,” Spontak said, adding, “He has a really great vision that art is good for a community and its people.” Residents of On Top of the World Communities enjoy Colen’s vision of giving people value for their homes, supporting art that strengthen the fabric aesthetic value. Residents and visitors to the community are greeted by two of the “Horse Fever herd” at Circle Square Commons. Featured on the property is the 930seat Circle Square Cultural Center, which hosts more than 75 art-related events each year, including concerts, arts and Shalom Park, also located in the vicinity and dedicated to Colen’s parents, provides an outdoor backdrop for a variety of events. His latest all-ages development, Calesa Township, recently commissioned a 130-foot-long pedestrian tunnel with a colorful mural for OTOW residents to enjoy. The Colen Foundation has funded important cultural programs throughout Marion County for decades. Although Colen’s vision for the arts has impacted hundreds of thousands of people in Marion County and beyond, he never focused on personal recognition.
SPIRIT AWARD
highlights an individual and an arts community. The face of Spirit Award winner, Gerald Ergle has represented the giving spirit in Ocala. Ergle has been an integral part of MCA since its inception in 2001, involved in the establishment of the organization and serving on its board of directors for several years.
Above: Brooke Hutto, a Harbourview Elementary School Music Educator, center, receives the MCA 2021 Arts Educator Award from Floyd Hershberger, left, and Dorothy Pernu, right. Left: Members of the Leppert family, Rebekah, Phylis, Philip and Jonathan, left to right, pose with their MCA 2021 Service Award. [Bruce Ackerman/OG]
Laurie Zink and Paula King, both MCA founders and now emeritus board members, originated and co-chaired Ocala regarded as the “Horse Capital of the World,” this project provided a wonderful visual expression for the arts. Horse Fever, the placing of artistically painted steeds in various places in Ocala, has had the advantage of Ergle’s expertise in all areas of this movement, from the project portion of the program to moving, installing, building movable platforms, and logistically assisting with the horses from Day One. He has assisted in all auctions and events, and he installs memorial bricks in the MCA courtyard. Zink nominated Ergle for the Spirit Award. She said 108 horses have been produced by the MCA and about 60 remain in Ocala. The rest have been auctioned for fund-raising purposes and have traveled to other areas. The MCA reports that Ergle, a longterm Ocala city councilman and former mayor, has never turned in a receipt (unless he was forced to) for all the many expenses he has incurred on behalf of the organization. According to the MCA, there has never been anything he has been asked to do for that he has not
the inconvenience to himself. “I am honored to receive this award,” he said. “I have enjoyed everything I have done.” Ergle noted that Horse Fever has set the public awareness of art, enabling people to enjoy art who might not go to an art gallery or museum.” He also tells the story of a young couple he spoke with who were from St. Augustine who traveled to Ocala on their painted horses. Although these are just a few aweinspiring glimpses of volunteers driving the thriving arts community and its mentors in Marion County, there is still more. The Marion Cultural Alliance has announced six Cultural Grant Foundation recipients for 2021-2022. Sharing in a $30,000 grant this year are the Appleton Museum of Art, Kingdom of the Sun Concert Band, Marion All-County Choir, Ocala Civic Theatre, Ocala Symphony Orchestra and the Reilly Arts Center, and Marion County Public Schools. “Since the Cultural Grants Foundation inception in 2001, MCA has granted $415,000 to 38 organizations,” remarked Jaye Baillie, executive director for the MCA at Brick City Center for the Arts.
B3
OCTOBER 15 - OCTOBER 21, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE
PAPER W THIN
Bruce Ackerman/OG
Danuta Jacob as Lucrece, left, and Joshua Plante as Charlie, rehearse a scene from Paper Thin at the Ocala Civic Theatre. The play runs from Oct. 14 to Oct. 31 at the theatre.
Southern Gothic dramedy and a world premiere at OCT this weekend By Julie Garisto julia@ocalagazette.com hat do you get when you serve Southernfried sass with a side of 21st-century angst? You get T.K. Lee’s Paper Thin. The 2018 dramedy makes its world premiere (yes, that’s right) this weekend at the Ocala Civic Theatre (OCT). If that weren’t exciting enough, the play’s awardwinning poet and playwright will also be in town for the play’s public stage debut on Oct. 14. Described as a “listening play” with witty, insightful dialogue, Paper Thin centers on Lucrece (Danuta Jacob), whiskey and announces from Champine) should make good on a premarital agreement — that she could leave him whenever she deemed the time was right. That time had come—even though Lucrece got what she thought she had always wanted “on paper” with her loyal husband and dear son Charlie (Joshua Plante). The 90-minute play delivers both funny and tender moments that sugarcoat a big dollop of truth serum.
Bruce Ackerman/OG
Top: Danuta Jacob as Lucrece, left, and Daryl Champine as Gerald. Above: Danuta Jacob as Lucrece.
allusions et al. — Thomas K. Lee won the Tennessee Williams Award for Loose Hog, and he won the Algonquin/ITAP Award for On How to Accommodate
Marlo's Frying Pan. Paper Thin already has some buzz; it earned Outstanding Contribution of New Dramatic Work at the Southeastern Theatre Conference. As the MFA-Creative Writing Instructor at the Mississippi University for Women, Lee certainly has the chops to pen a thoughtful but entertaining script that deals with feminism, and family matters. Speaking of someone with the goods: Lee’s baby opus couldn’t be nursed to life by a more expert theater mom than OCT Artistic Director Katrina Ploof. “Several days before rehearsals were to begin on Paper Thin here at OCT, I gave in to a certain amount of anxiety,” Ploof writes in the program’s Director’s Note. “Now in my defense this is a pretty big deal—producing the world premiere of a new play in its jitters were in my opinion totally Since Ploof took the reins as the theater’s artistic director two years ago, she expressly sought out newer, more contemporary works to add to the season roster. “You've heard the saying, Ploof says. “When a new play can be supported by a top-notch skilled and collaborative design team; and a community who is curious and open to hearing and
seeing something new, it's a winwin for all.” Of Lee’s writing, Ploof has praise for his work and their friendship: “I’ve been passionate about producing his work for several years, so this was the end result of neither one of us giving up on the other. It was bound to happen.” According to Ploof, there’s a joyful satisfaction in seeing a cast and crew at work on something new. “The production with all of its tremendous skill and energy, the designers get and lighting design —and, as is the case with this show—write original music to score the production.” Indeed, Philip King, the Winter Haven-based music director, pianist and OCT all-star, wrote new music for Paper Thin. “It is the beauty of community theater that we get to see our friends and neighbors and fellow citizens when we come to a play,” Ploof muses. “These aren’t strangers. These are people that shop at your Publix, walk in your park. So there’s a deep personal connection that comes with that.” Bearing witness to “a work of art actually being born— that's both a privilege and a “New plays take a long time to get to New York or London, but we can be the place where they start that journey.”
B4
Giving to the givers
OCTOBER 15 - OCTOBER 21, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE
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 repeating any numbers within the same row, column or square.
Marge Forrest, owner of Gabriel's Christian Book Store in Ocala, made and donated gift baskets to all of the first responders in Marion County, including Ocala Fire Rescue, Marion County Fire Rescue, the Ocala Police Department and the Marion County Sheriff's Office. Photos by Bruce Ackerman/OG Above: Father Don Curran of Christ The King Anglican Church, Marion County Sheriff Billy Woods, and Steve Forrest, left to right, pose for photos as Curran and Forrest deliver about a dozen gift goodie baskets at the Marion County Sheriff's Office. Right: Father Don Curran, left, and Steve Forrest, right, deliver gift goodie baskets to Dedera Joyner, Chief Deputy Robert Douglas' executive assistant.
B5
OCTOBER 15 - OCTOBER 21, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE
Halloween
Now-A Nightmare on Pine Street | Haunted Trail 10/30
Wayne’s World of Paintball, 4841 S Pine Ave., Ocala 8pm-12am
Now-The Pickin’ Patch 10/24
11000 Rolling Hills Road, Dunnellon 11000 Rolling Hills Road, Dunnellon
10/20 Wednesday Midday Market
Ocala Downtown Market, 310 SE Third St. 1-6pm
10/21 Farmers Market
Circle Square Commons, 8405 SW 80th St. 9am-1pm
10/21 Lunch with an Archaeologist
Fort King National Historic Landmark, 3925 E. Fort King St. 11am-1pm
10/16 Comic Fest Spooktober
Paddock Mall, 3100 SW College Rd, Ocala 11am-3pm
Community
10/27 Forest Readers Book Club
Forest Public Library, 905 S County Highway 314A, Ocklawaha
Now-The Championship Show 10/24
World Equestrian Center, 1390 NW 80th Ave.
Arts 10/23 FAFO’s Ocala Arts Festival -24 Downtown Ocala
Now-Amazing Arthropods 10/30
Discovery Center, 701 NE Sanchez Ave.
Now- Paper Thin 10/31
Ocala Civic Theatre, 4337 E Silver Springs Blvd.
10/15 Marion County Friday Market
McPherson Government Campus Field, 601 SE 25th Ave.
10/16 Ocala Downtown Market 310 SE Third St. 9am-2pm
10/16 Ocala Palms community garage sale 5174 W 26th Lane 8am-1pm
Now- Lisa Russo | European Elegance 1/22
Recreation and Parks Administration Bldg., 828 NE Eighth Ave.
in Balance: Exploring Flora & Fauna of Florida Now- Nature & South America 10/30 Brick City Center for the Arts, 23 W. Broadway St., Ocala
10/16 NamaSitStay Yoga
Tuscawilla Park, 829 NE Sanchez Ave.
10/16
Craft Fair at Circle Square Cultural Center
Circle Square Cultural Center 8395 SW 80th St,, Ocala
10/16
Painting Demonstration 12-3pm
10/16 Poetry Reading | Paper Thin playwright T. K. Lee Ocala Civic Theatre, 4337 E Silver Springs Blvd.
10/19
The Shores Market
10/20
1 Million Cups Ocala
Silver Springs Shores Community Center, 590 Silver Road
Power Plant Business Incubator, 405 SE Osceola Ave.
Now-The Game of Life 10/18
Ocala City Hall, 110 SE Watula Ave.
B6
OCTOBER 15 - OCTOBER 21, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE
Now-Highlights from the Equine Collection 10/24
Appleton Museum of Art, 4333 E Silver Springs Blvd. Tuesday-Saturday 10am-5pm, Sunday noon-5pm This exhibit of works from the permanent collection highlights more than 60 pieces which relay Arthur I. Appleton’s love of horses. Visit appletonmuseum.org for more information.
Now10/28
Greater than 17
College of Central Florida Webber Gallery, 3001 SW College Road 10am-4pm Monday-Thursday This exhibition, from the collection of CF Associate Professor Tyrus Clutter, features works by more than 150 artists who printmaker Stanley William Hayter, who had a profound impact on 20th-century art and attracted well-known artists at his Atelier 17 workshop in Paris. For details, visit cf.edu or call (352) 854-2322, ext. 1664.
Now-Heart of the Horse 4/24
Appleton Museum of Art, 4333 E Silver Springs Blvd. Tuesday-Saturday 10am-5pm, Sunday 12-5pm The beauty and complexity of horses is revealed through 40 black-and-white photographs by Juliet van Otteren in the Appleton Museum’s new exhibit. Visit appletonmuseum.org for more information.
10/18 Watercolor Painting
Rainbow Springs Art, 20804 W Pennsylvania Ave., Dunnellon 10am-12pm Instructor Michelle Curry will lead beginners through advanced participants to expand their creativity and skills. Classes continue every Monday through November 8. Visit rainbowspringsart.com for more information.
10/18 Painting Open in 2-D Traditional Media
Rainbow Springs Art, 20804 W Pennsylvania Ave., Dunnellon 1-3pm Students are invited to bring their own painting projects in acrylics, oils, watercolors or pastels. Classes continue every Monday through November 8. Visit rainbowspringsart.com for more information.
Now-A Breeze Through Fertile Gardens 11/17
10/18 Pastel
Now-Alison Saar: Works from the Permanent Collection 1/2
10/18 Coffee, Cake & Community
Appleton Museum of Art, 4333 E Silver Springs Blvd. Tuesday-Saturday 10am-5pm, Sunday noon-5pm This collection of paintings and drawings by Andrew M. Grant Visit appletonmuseum.org for more information.
Appleton Museum of Art, 4333 E Silver Springs Blvd. Tuesday-Saturday 10am-5pm, Sunday noon-5pm This exhibit of printed works curated from the Appleton’s collection showcases Alison Saar, an internationally acclaimed artist who incorporates spiritual and political themes. Visit appletonmuseum.org for more information.
Rainbow Springs Art, 20804 W Pennsylvania Ave., Dunnellon 1-3pm Beginner through advanced students are invited to join a though course in pastels. Classes continue every Monday through November 8. Visit rainbowspringsart.com for more information.
NOMA Gallery, 939 N Magnolia Ave. 1-4pm Need a new space for inspiration? Bring your current project and enjoy some together time with other creatives. Visit
FAFO Ocala Arts Festival Map
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Answers for pages C4
Ocala Gazette publishes fond remembrances of your loved one Visit ocalagazette.com to submit an obituary
B7
OCTOBER 15 - OCTOBER 21, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE
Belleview preschooler gets her
BIG MOMENT
Step Up for Down Syndrome Walk designates Riley Belcher as parade’s Grand Marshal By Rosemarie Dowell Special to the Gazette
T
he third time is the charm for Riley Belcher of Belleview. Riley celebrated her
well.
families. day.
B8
OCTOBER 15 - OCTOBER 21, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE
AP File Photo
Opening, ticket prices announced for Peppa Pig theme park WINTER HAVEN, Fla. (AP) — A standalone Peppa Pig theme park at the Legoland Florida Resort is set to
The Peppa Pig theme also be able to meet Peppa Legoland theme park, but
be $34.99 at the gate and $30.99 online. An annual
The Peppa Pig theme
Legoland Florida has
Legoland operates nine other theme parks around the
B9
OCTOBER 15 - OCTOBER 21, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE
Sports Anything can, and often does, happen in Florida-LSU rivalry By Mark Long AP Sports Writer No one can truly predict what will happen when No. 20 Florida and LSU play Saturday. Anything is possible, everything is on the table and nothing is out of reach. Just look at the recent history of the Southeastern Conference rivalry. Their matchup last December might have been the most bizarre
one in the 50 years since they started playing annually. Cade York drilled a 57-yard struggling Tigers to a 37-34 upset at No. 6 Florida that few could have seen coming. Gators cornerback Marco Wilson extended the winning drive by picking up tight end Kole Taylor's third-down play and inexplicably
tossing it several yards in the opposite direction. unsportsmanlike conduct, a 15yard penalty that turned a wouldbe punt into a fresh set of downs. The Tigers moved the chains once more, setting up York's huge kick. "I guess that's going to go down in Gator history," Florida defensive end Zach Carter said See Gators, page B11
Bruce Akerman/OG
Florida head coach Dan Mullen, left, calls out instructions in front of quarterback Emory Jones (5) during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Vanderbilt, Saturday, Oct. 9, 2021, in Gainesville.
Dunnellon pulls past North Marion By James Blevins james@ocalagazette.com
On a dark and steamy Homecoming Friday night, the Dunnellon Tigers defended their home turf against the visiting North Marion Colts, and it was a doozy of a non-district football game. fourth quarter, Dunnellon held on to win the prep contest 12-9 at Tiger Stadium on Oct. 8. The Tigers bettered their record to 4-2 on the season—stretching their winning streak to four games— while the Colts dropped to 3-3 overall. Dunnellon head coach Price Harris said he is starting to see from his Tiger team what he’s been looking for all season: a talented
Bruce Ackerman/OG
Forest's Emma Truluck (5) spikes the ball past Dunnellon's Kendal Brenneman (11) during a volleyball match at Forest High School on Wednesday, Oct. 13, 2021.
Wildcats declaw the Tigers By James Blevins james@oaclagazette.com
W
ith nine seniors in its lineup, it seemed like Forest’s pregame senior night celebration took almost as long as the actual volleyball game Wednesday night against the visiting Dunnellon Tigers. The Wildcats won the Oct. 13 prep match in three-straight sets—25-5, 25-6, 25-10—taking little more than an
defense have been coming together, and as they continue to get better, we’ll continue to get better as a team.” quarter of play by possessing the ball for almost eight full minutes, game before Dunnellon had even touched the ball. Placekicker Justin Stopford
hour to defeat their opponent. Forest improved its overall record to 14-9. Dunnellon wrapped up its regular the year 3-10. Wildcat seniors honored before the game includes Aubrey O’Cull, Madilyn Jerald, Isabella Tobon, Emma Truluck, Abby Eckenroth, Sheridan Turner, Paris Masi, Emma Santi and Mackenzie Williams. Three Dunnellon seniors—Yeilani See Forest, page B10
what they can accomplish together. “We’ve seen what they can do and we felt like we knew what they could do,” said Harris of his team. “But we needed them to start being able to see what they can do too. Overall,
3-0. Quarterback Trent Townsend would nearly put his Tigers team
Bruce Ackerman/OG
Dunnellon's Megan Mills (30) jumps for a block against Forest during the volleyball match at Forest High School.
play—which had teammate LJ Fitzpatrick passing the ball to a suddenly wide-open Townsend, See Dunnellon, page B12
OTHER AREA FOOTBALL GAMES
GAME OF THE WEEK
By James Blevins james@ocalagazette.com
Leon at Forest
The Forest Wildcats enter this Friday night’s non-district football game against the Leon Lions with a 2-4 overall record in 2021. Forest won last week at home against the visiting Leesburg Yellow Jackets 29-6, West Port, also at home, 15-12 on Sept. 17. So far, the Wildcats have lost to North Marion (36-8) on Aug. 27; Seabreeze (40-8) on Sept. 3; Dunnellon (20-0) on Sept. 24; and Chiles (45-14) on Oct. 1. Leon enters tonight’s game with a 1-4 overall record. The Lions’ lone win came against Florida A & M out of Tallahassee on Sept. 3. They won 53-26. Since that game, Leon has been on a
four-game losing streak, dropping games to Florida State University High School (533), Navarre (24-14), Buchholz (49-3) and Lincoln (42-0) last week. Tonight’s game would be a great opportunity for the Wildcats to string together two wins, before facing Hawthorne on Oct. 22—another non-district match-up. The Hornets could be a challenge for Forest as they currently sit with a 5-0 record, but that’s next week. This week, the Wildcats are hoping to extend their winning streak to two games, shoring up their record at 3-4, one game short of .500. With district games against Buchholz and Vanguard coming up on Oct. 29 and Nov. 5, respectively, Forest football couldn’t choose a better time to go on a tear through its remaining schedule then right now. at 7 p.m.
Oct. 15 Dunnellon (4-2) at Lake Weir (1-4) 7 p.m. Lake Mary Prep at St. John Lutheran (2-3) 7 p.m. West Port (0-6) at Apopka 7 p.m. North Marion (3-3) at Palatka 7:00 p.m. Ocala Christian Academy (8-0) at Donahue Catholic 7:00 p.m. Vanguard (5-0) at Lecanto 7:00 p.m. Bruce Ackerman/OG
Forest's quarterback Steve Curry (5) outruns Dunnellon defenders during a football game at Dunnellon High School in Dunnellon, on Friday, Sept. 24, 2021.
Pasco at Belleview (6-1) 7:30 p.m. Bye Week Trinity Catholic (4-2)
B10
OCTOBER 15 - OCTOBER 21, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE
KNIGHTS-3, COLTS-1
Above: Vanguard players celebrate a point on North Marion during a volleyball match at Vanguard High School. Right: North Marion's Kendall McCubbin (7) and Kinley Manning (10) jump to block a spike from Vanguard's Ruby Owen (34). Bottom Left: North Marion's Kinley Manning (10), left, and Brooke McConnell (3) dive after the ball as they try to make a save on a Vanguard hit. Bottom Right: Vanguard's Ronya Hamed (6) spikes the ball as North Marion's Kinley Manning (10) jumps for the block. Photos by Bruce Ackerman Ocala Gazette
Forest beats Dunnellon in straight sets Contnued from B9 Rosario, Megan Mills and Anstasia Eustache—were similarly honored with roses by their host. get the ball rolling early for the Wildcats. Behind her service, Forest accrued 13 straight points
with seven aces and one kill. Fellow senior Truluck would scoring one ace from three serves at the line, giving the Wildcats the 17-4 lead. Truluck had a total of three kills in the match. From there, Eckenroth guided Wildcat conclusion. The senior Wildcat served three-straight aces, followed by two Dunnellon errors In set two, three Wildcats an early lead: Mackenzie Danner had two aces; followed by Kailyn
W H A T ' S
Howard, who had one ace; and Ava Herron served next, hitting three aces. By the time Herron had was leading the set 16-4. Dallas Papy (three-straight aces) and Danner again (two aces) would help to wrap up set two In the third set, Dunnellon would keep things close early. It but Dunnellon couldn't withstand the depth of talent Forest had behind the service line. Senior Tobon would help Forest pull away for good in the middle of the frame, hitting three-straight aces as the Wildcats scored sevenstraight points behind her service, back, getting within 10 points (166), but the Wildcats were too far in the lead, ultimately winning the had a kill and a blocked shot in Kendal Brenneman also had a kill.
N E X T TOP: Forest players celebrate a point on Dunnellon.
TIGERS Oct. 18, 7 p.m.
WILDCATS Oct. 19, 7 p.m.
The No. 6 seed Tigers face off against the No. 3 seed Crystal River Pirates in the District 4A-4 quarterfinals, at Santa Fe High School.
The No. 3 seed Wildcats will host the No. 6 seed Buchholz Bobcats for a District 6A-3 quarterfinal match.
ABOVE: Forest's Emma Santi (13) digs the ball. RIGHT: Forest's coach Jimmy Collins works with his players. Photos by Bruce Ackerman/OG
B11
OCTOBER 15 - OCTOBER 21, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE
Gators lure LSU Tigers to the swamp Continued from B9
the stretch, with the lone exception coming in 2019 in Baton Rouge. Even then, the Gators led 28-21 in the third quarter before the Tigers — led by Joe Burrow, Ja'Marr Chase,
Monday. "They might ask that every year against LSU. Just a crazy play. He got caught up in emotions, excitement, and that happened. "But we just know this year, heading into this game, those little things like that can't happen. Can't do it." One little play here or there has
"When you think Tiger Stadium, that was one of those nights," said LSU kicker Avery Atkins, who remembers the ball vibrating on the
might no longer be an annual event when Big 12 heavyweights Oklahoma and Texas join the SEC. The league is considering eliminating annual crossover games between East and West divisions to ensure everyone If so, Florida-LSU would be one of Alabama has won 14 in a row against Tennessee, and Georgia is 14-3 in its last 17 against Auburn. Florida and LSU, meanwhile, have been involved in countless nail-biters, head-scratchers and gutwrenchers over the last two decades. Six of the last seven meetings have been one-possession games down
like that that makes Tiger Stadium great." Said Florida coach Dan Mullen: "Obviously it's a great rivalry. Things that go into it: One, we play every year. Two, it's two great programs that … we've each won two national championships (since 2006). You look at all the games — not all of them, but a lot of them — coming right down to the wire and being these tough battles. "I think that's what makes it a great rivalry game. It makes it mustsee TV to go watch great players, great teams that are championshiplevel teams that go in and play a game that comes right down to the
unanswered points to win 28-24, a victory that helped propel them to the national championship. That was the same game in which Florida quarterback Tim Tebow mocked LSU students following a touchdown because they had gotten his cell phone number days before the game
wire. It makes it a great rivalry." It got downright testy in 2016 when Hurricane Matthew forced Florida to postpone its home game against LSU on short notice. Negotiations were tense, with neither side willing to budge until the league to Baton Rouge later that season. The Gators used a goal-line stand to escape with a 16-10 victory. A year victory. Of course, that was nothing compared to the 2007 game, when times on fourth down and scored 14
even death threats. LSU coach Ed Orgeron has recently faced questions about his future. The Tigers have lost consecutive games and need a victory were in a similar spot last year before stunning Florida in the Swamp with a memorable kick through the fog. Heading into Saturday's matchup, the Tigers are 10 1/2-point underdogs, according to FanDuel Sportsbook. But in this series, happen. "It's going to be a big game for us" center Liam Shanahan said. "Obviously, it's been a tough start to the year for us. None of us wanted to be in this situation, but the only thing
Belleview buries Williston F
AR RIGHT: Belleveiw Rattlers quarterback Ernest Flythe (2) runs around Williston defender as the Belleview Rattlers take on the Williston Red Devils on Friday October 8, 2021, in Belleview. TOP RIGHT: Willison’s Tristan Weathers (1) gets clobbered down on a play. BOTTOM RIGHT: The Rattlers enter the field — their uniforms adorned with pink for breast cancer awareness month. Photos by Alan Youngbloood Special to the Ocala Gazette
SCORE BOARD Football Scores
Selected Marion County High School
Oct. 7 Academy at the Lakes Ocala Christian Academy
7 58
Oct. 8
SPORTS RESULTS
North Marion Dunnellon
9 12
Williston Belleview
6 51
Bishop Verot Trinity Catholic
26 49
St. John Lutheran Merritt Island Christian
0 48
Belleview 3 Zephyrhills Christian Academy 0
Leesburg Forest
6 29
(25-5, 25-7, 25-12)
Vanguard Jefferson
26 0
BYE WEEK
OCT. 7-12
West Port Dunnellon
Girls’ volleyball scores Oct. 7-12
Boys’ and Girls’ Cross Country 3 0 1 3
BOYS VARSITY RESULTS Buchholz won with 43 points out of 23 scoring teams Vanguard, 2nd Place (75 points)
(14-25, 25-20, 15-25, 16-25) Santa Fe Forest
(Gainesville, FL.)
3 0
Belleview, 10th Place (282 points)
(25-16, 25-14, 25-11)
Trinity Catholic, 14th Place
Oct. 12
(368 points)
Vanguard Forest (15-25, 17-25, 17-25)
0 3
St. John Lutheran, 23rd Place (664 points)
GIRLS VARSITY RESULTS
Buchholz won with 54 points out of 20 scoring teams Vanguard, 5th Place (138 points) St. John Lutheran, 12th Place
0 3
Bobcat Classic Oct. 9
(25-15, 25-8, 25-6) Belleview St. John
3 0
(25-5, 25-14, 25-8)
West Port and Lake Weir
Vanguard Lake Weir
Kate Drummond of Buchholz won in 18:35 4th Place, Pippa Worden Vanguard (19:06) 21st Place, Rhema Taylor Vanguard (20:35) 26th Place, Brooklyn Fratello
Lake Weir North Marion
Oct. 7
GIRLS VARSITY 5K INDIVIDUAL TOP-50 RESULTS
(326 points) Trinity Catholic, 16th Place (393 points)
BOYS VARSITY 5K INDIVIDUAL TOP-50 RESULTS Matthew Stratton of St. Johns Country Day won in 15:42
27th Place, Justin Capilli Vanguard (17:49) 31st Place, Kartik Koti Vanguard (18:02) 35th Place, Andrew Petrella Trinity Catholic (18:05) 38th Place, Martin D’Esposito Vanguard (18:10) 39th Place, Cedric McFadden Trinity Catholic (18:11) 45th Place, Matt Lammens Vanguard (18:24)
Vanguard (20:50) 45th Place, Audrey Taylor Vanguard (22:33) 49th Place, Christina Seecharan Belleview (22:43) 50th Place, Reese Beaser St. John Lutheran (22:50) Results were gathered from Maxpreps.com and Flrunners.com. Compiled by James Blevins
BELOW: Belleveiw Rattlers' Jackson Dennis (21) tries to escape Williston Red Devils' Kemarion Blunt (18) as the Rattlers take on the Red Devils on Friday October 8, 2021.
6th Place, Clayton Knight Vanguard (16:37) 7th Place, Luis Cruzado Belleview (16:51) 8th Place, Joshua Moore Vanguard (16:53) 12th Place, Tristan Pank Vanguard (17:05) 25th Place, Diego Carrascosa Vanguard (17:41) 26th Place, Mark Willis Belleview (17:49)
Alan Youngblood/Special to the Ocala Gazette
B12
OCTOBER 15 - OCTOBER 21, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE
Tigers beat Colts 12-9 Continued from B9 with it into the end zone—would ultimately be called back due to illegal procedure against Dunnellon. The third quarter would start with two back-to-back fumbles by the Tigers. Dunnellon’s defense would stop the second turnover. Stopford would once again get the call and put the ball through the 6-0 Colts at 6:48 of the third quarter. Townsend handed the ball to Jaden at 2:36 of the third quarter. Dunnellon’s Brody Luckey attempted keeping the score locked at 6 heading
Left: Dunnellon's CJ Donahoe (11) breaks up a pass in the end zone intended for North Marion's Caleb Rollerson (11) during a football game at Dunnellon High School on Oct. 8. Below: Dunnellon's quarterback Trent Townsend (15) eludes North Marion defenders.
Townsend failed to connect with Dyer for the two-point conversion. Fitzpatrick even had the gamesnagging one of AJ Cussins’ errant clock.
Photos by Bruce Ackerman/OG
senior. “Most players couldn’t do that—but he did. He was able to turn something into a big play. I’m super proud of my guys. They battled back down early and playing from behind Colts head coach Greg Carr was score. “It sucks when it goes down that it cost us. It’s a big upset…but at the same time we played hard. Somebody had to lose this game. It just happened Carr doesn’t want his team to hang their heads too low over Friday night’s loss. North Marion is next scheduled
But it wouldn’t last. into the waiting arms of Dunnellon’s
No. 20 Florida guarding against giving LSU any more breaks a hand clap to start plays. backs struggled to hear the cadence over the sold-out crowd. Mullen insists he's tight-lipped on the details. "We've had a talk and we Added Jones: "We're probably going to stick with what we've been doing every game. … It's just a point of just being focused and disciplined." Welcome Back The Gators expect preseason three games with a sprained right knee. That would be a who already were without starter Jaydon Hill (knee) for the season and dismissed graduate transfer Elijah Blades for unknown reasons following last week's game. Freshmen Jason Marshall AP File Photo
Florida quarterback Emory Jones (5) runs the ball upfield during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Kentucky on Oct. 2.
By Brett Martel AP Sports Writer
"Everybody had a lot of
There's only so much credit Florida quarterback Emory Jones and the Gators are willing to give the LSU Tigers for their upset victory in the Swamp one season ago.
beat us at the end." Jones stressed that the Gators aim to "make sure none of that will happen this week."
unsportsmanlike conduct penalty against Florida for
"And just make sure that we don't beat ourselves." But if the Gators do start
Cade York might not have gotten a chance to make his goal through the fog. When No. 20 Florida Conference) renews its historical rivalry with LSU aim to play a cleaner game. "That was a tough game for us. We had a lot of triumph at Florida last season in Tigers QB Max
just trying to eliminate all
Tigers and embattled coach Ed Orgeron will take it. LSU has lost two straight and has gone 8-8 overall since its undefeated national championship campaign in weekend has forced Orgeron about his job security — less than two years removed from one of the most dominant seasons in college football history.
native who grew up an LSU that the Tigers have failed to meet expectations and says he's learned from years of coaching that the only way he can respond is to avoid news reports and narrow his focus. "All we can do is go to day at a time and give it the said. "I understand that it's pretty bad. I get that. But my job is to come to work with a positive attitude every day and do the best job I can on a daily basis." Jones and the Gators riveting games between these programs. LSU has won including three of the past four and the past two. "They always come to play when the Gators are in
Decimated Defense As if losing top cornerback Derek Stingley Jr.
in for Elam and Hill. Ground Gains While LSU's 83.3 yards per
enough blow to LSU's
the season running the ball.
this week they also would be without No. 2 cornerback
junior running back Tyrion
of their best pass-rushers. That'll only make it tougher for LSU to contain
yards and two touchdowns. The development provided hope that LSU's balance and take pressure
Silent Count Florida's last road trip was a debacle. The Gators
against four interceptions. An improved running game also could slow down premier Florida pass rushers Brenton Cox and Zachary
starts. Coach Dan Mullen's
seven sacks this season. "I remember both those guys from our game last year. It's going to be a challenge
because Jones was using
Shanahan said. "We have to put it together this week.