FRIDAY, February 22, 2019  VOLUME 22 NUMBER xx  www.smcitizen.com S UTH MARION

CitizenServing S.R. 200 Communities & Businesses

MOUNTAINSMOUNTAINS FROMFROM Sholom Park celebrates MOLEHILLSMOLEHILLS by DAVID DAVIS first responders

elebrating First Re- share their appreciation for sponders from Mar- those who dedicate their And away I go C ion County is focus lives to keeping us safe. of “Fun at the Park” event at Marion County Sheriff ’s obby Bare had a popular song in Sholom Park is excited to Office and Marion County 1992 titled, "The Winner," that announce the upcoming Fire Rescue will have a B went something like this: “Celebrating First Respond- squadron of emergency ve- “Now you remind me a lotta my ers of Marion County” Sun- hicles on display with an younger days with your knuckles a day, Feb. 24, from 1 to 4 p.m. agency representative for The guest VIPs are Marion clenchin' white each corresponding unit to County’s law enforcement, But boy I'm gonna sit right here and sip answer questions. There fire, medical and dispatch this beer all night will be a ladder truck, patrol And if there's somethin' that you gotta heroes who come to our aid and rescue when we’re in car, mobile jail cell replica, gain to prove by winnin' some silly fight SWAT Unit, Mobile Com- Well okay I quit I lose you're the need. This “Fun at the Park” will be an afternoon filled mand Center and much winner.” with live music, food trucks, more. Special guest, Sheriff The last line is the only one that is ap- educational entertainment Billy Woods, will be on hand plicable to this column because this is and loads of children’s ac- for a citizen meet and greet. my last column as editor of the West PHOTO BY RON RATNER tivities. This is a free event Marion Messenger and South Marion Sidewalks meander through Sholom Park for all ages to come and See SHOLOM/Page A3 Citizen. I’m retiring for about the third time in my life. I have enjoyed working with all of you, so none of you are the reason I’m resigning. Bridges Project names My wife and I moved to Florida be- cause I’ve always heard it is such a beau- tiful state and I wanted to see if it is true or not. We’ve been here a little more essay winners than two years now, and all I’ve seen is what lies between Dunnellon and Chief- The Bridges Project of Rev. Peggy Hostetler, vice land or Dunnellon and Ocala. Ocala/Marion County will president of Bridges Proj- My friends in other states are amazed honor middle and high ect, said the entries were that I still haven’t seen an alligator and school students who partic- so good that judges had dif- frankly, so am I, since the Rainbow River ipated in an essay contest ficulty in grading them so a Ocala Rotary erects an arbor in Tuscawilla Park is only a couple of blocks from my house. inviting their views on les- first prize will be awarded dispaying the Rotary 4-way test. I don’t want to live with alligators, but I sons learned about in each category with “all need to see one – and only one –­ and I the civil rights movement others” entrants given hon- don't want to swim with them. I wouldn't and how to effect change at orary status. mind swimming with a manatee, but they an awards ceremony to “You’ll be impressed by Ocala Rotary Club tend to get struck by boat propellers. take place at Barnes & their work as they read I want to take pictures of stuff and Noble Saturday, March 2, from their essays,” she at 2 p.m. said. read. I don't know how many books I've Parents, friends, teach- The two first prize win- turns 100 years old collected over my journalism career ers, school officials and ners will each receive a that I've never had time to read. the general public are in- $100 Barnes & Noble gift orn in 1919, the Ocala Rotary Club will Bruce Willis was in a movie titled, vited to this event, which card with the remaining celebrate its 100th birthday on Friday, "The Sixth Sense," in which Haley Joel follows community-funded six each receiving $50 B February 15, at a dinner at the Discov- Osment's character tells Willis' charac- distribution by the Bridges Barnes & Noble gift certifi- ery Center in Tuscawilla Park. In honor of this ter, "I see dead people." Project of 170 sets of Con- cates. occasion, immediately preceding the dinner the I don't see dead people. I see stories gressman John Lewis’ Middle school winners club dedicated an arbor in the park displaying and I'm going to try to finish one that “March” Trilogy through- include Christina Beja- the 4-way test of Rotary: Is it the truth? Is it fair to all concerned? Will it build good will and bet- I've seen in my head for the past 30 out the school system, in rano, sixth grade, Howard ter friendships? Will it be beneficial to all con- years. an effort to encourage love Middle School; Chelsea cerned? So, I pray for peace and the bless- of reading and broader James, eighth grade, How ings of God for each of you. knowledge of the transfor- See ROTARY/Page A3 mative history of the 1960s. Goodbye. See BRIDGES/Page A4 A2 ~ Friday, February 22, 2019 www.smcitizen.com www.smcitizen.com Friday, February 22, 2019 ~ A3

classic rock. ion County Professional There will also be a Fighters Union, and SHOLOM special performance Ocala Police Department Continued from Page A1 I miss my good from MCSO’s Pipes and and the Eddie Eagle Gun Drums Band. An Out- Safe Program. The Early Learning standing Service Award Join us Feb. 24 as we Coalition will entertain will be presented on show gratitude to the stage to three deserving children of all ages with men and women who friend, Tom Foolery individuals from partici- an obstacle course, crafts protect and serve our pating agencies. Sholom and face painting. Park will have a second- community. Sholom Park Sholom Park’s newly his past week ary stage for our educa- is located at 7110 SW the Gracious Out to Pastor constructed entertain- tional programs. 80th Ave., Ocala, FL ment stage will feature 34481. For more informa- T Mistress of the Rev. James Snyder There will be talks and Parsonage and I were live music by My Kryp- demonstrations by MC- tion on the Fun at the having a conversation. Of tonite, a local favorite SO’s K-9 Unit, MCFR and Park, call 352-873-0848 or course, it was more like a performing 70s and 80s Marshall from the Mar- visit SholomPark.org. monologue, but you know how that works. We were thinking back back came out to try to her face, “I’m available was the sixth Rotary lion members. The Ocala over the years of our life assist in the service. She too.” It made the crowd Club in Florida and has Rotary Club was founded together and reminding said, “Is anybody here laugh even louder. ROTARY also sponsored four on May 1, 1919, is the ourselves of some of the for pick up?” What we need is a little Continued from Page A1 other area Rotary Clubs sixth oldest Rotary Club great and wonderful I do not offer any logi- bit of laughter today and – Leesburg 1924, Oca- in the State of Florida, times we have had. The cal excuse or explana- that is where my friend The special guest for la-Silver Springs 1969, and meets every Monday friends we have made. tion for what I said. Just Tom Foolery and I step the occasion was Barry Belleview 1981, and Met- for lunch at the College The activities we have that, the noodle soup up- in. Rassin, current presi- ropolitan Ocala 1984. of Central Florida. enjoyed together. Of stairs was boiling and my Solomon puts this in a dent of Rotary Interna- The Metropolitan Club course, there were the mouth was unlocked at very good perspective. “A tional. Rassin earned an sponsored the Ocala grandchildren and my the moment. merry heart doeth good MBA in health and hos- Southwest Club in 2001, wife had a great time I said to the lady, “Are like a medicine: but a pital administration and the Ocala-Silver talking about the grand- you handling the broken spirit drieth the from the University of Springs Club sponsored children and I chuckling pickup?” bones” (Proverbs 17:22). Florida and is the first the Sunset Club in 2002, “We have along with her. “Yes I am,” she said There are too many fellow of the American so the Ocala Rotary Club After a moment of qui- very professionally as broken spirits in our College of Healthcare has grandfathered two just enough etness, my wife said she walked over toward world today and too few Executives in the Baha- other clubs as well! rather seriously, “Who is me. merry hearts. My com- mas. He recently retired Leaders of the other religion to the friend you miss the “Are you available?” mitment is to try to help after 37 years as presi- Marion County clubs are make us hate, most?” Walking toward me, with the merry heart syn- dent of Doctors Hospital expected to attend. However, thinking she said, “Yes.” drome along with my Health System. About Rotary but not about that a little bit Quite seriously, I ex- good friend Tom Foolery. It is estimated that ap- Rotary International is later I did acknowledge tended my hand and re- ———n——— proximately $1 million an international service enough to that the friend I missed sponded to her, “Where Dr. James L. Snyder is has been donated by the organization whose make us love the most was Tom Fool- would you like to go?” pastor of the Family of Ocala Rotary Club over stated purpose is to bring ery. I guess, as you get She stopped in her God Fellowship, 1471 Pine the 100 years of its exis- together business and one another.” older you more or less tracks and looked at me Road, Ocala, FL 34472. tence to both local and professional leaders in outgrow that friendship. and immediately behind He lives with his wife in international causes, ac- order to provide humani- But I certainly do miss me the customers began Silver Springs Shores. cording to Club Histo- tarian services, encour- — Jonathan him. laughing and clapping Call him at 352-687-4240 rian Frank Rasbury, age high ethical I was thinking about their hands. or email jamessnyder2@ particularly the effort to standards in all voca- Swift my friend, Tom when I “I gotcha,” I said to the att.net. The church web- eradicate polio from the tions, and help build was at the post office this lady who was smiling at site is www.whatafellow- world. goodwill and peace in past week. Every once in me. The crowd continued ship.com. The Ocala Rotary Club the world with over a while I have to take a to laugh and give me 34,000 clubs and 1.2 mil- package to the post office thumbs-up as she re- to have it mailed. turned to the back part of This day the line was the office. quite long and the ser- Everybody in the vice people were work- crowd was talking cheer- ing as hard and fast as fully and laughing and I they could. However, too knew I had done my job. many people had prob- Tom Foolery and I had lems that could not be made a difference among solved in a moment. all those people. What- The line got longer and ever it takes to get peo- longer, the people inhab- ple laughing and iting the line grew a little forgetting about their grouchy and grumpy, and problems is a good deed. I could hear some of the As I was going out peo- complaining behind me. ple clapped and one Pretty soon, one of the dear old lady said to me lady managers from the with the biggest smile on A4 ~ Friday, February 22, 2019 www.smcitizen.com

Pun Alley Celebrating Margarita Day Dick Frank in a Mexican restaurant on Pun Alley

his has been a there, pal?” and the wife was fuming, Shots holic. If you drink too Ticked Off winter of record “A mongoose.” as the clock ticked later much Fanta, does that T prolonged cold “What for?” and later. Finally, she Pity the poor drunkard make you Fantastic? A drunk was proudly here and up north with “Well, you know how heard a noise at the front who started out to get No! For the last time showing off his new huge snow deposits. With drunk I can get. When I door, and as she stood at mellow, then he got ripe, stop asking if I am apartment to a friend and ended up rotten. late one night. He led the spring in the future, this get drunk I see snakes, the top of the stairs, drunk. I am not drunk! Some men become way to his bedroom weekend can be a time to and I’m scared to death there was her husband, Who would name their fishermen because where there was a big celebrate. of them. That’s why I got drunk as a skunk, trying kid drunk? they’re not allowed to brass gong and a mallet. Today is National Mar- this mongoose, for pro- to navigate the stairs. drink at home. “What’s that big brass garita Day. Best way to tection.” “Do you realize what Bar Hopping enjoy it is a Margarita or “But,” the friend said, A fool and a drunkard gong?” the guest asked. time it is?” she asked. are two of the most mis- Talking to his friend “It’s not a gong. It’s a two along with Mexican “you idiot! Those are He answered, “Don’t about his marriage a culinary treats at a imaginary snakes.” taken human beings on talking clock,” the drunk get excited. I’m late be- earth; one thinks he is man said, “It’s getting replied. restaurant. “That’s okay,” replied cause I bought something bad these days, my wife Tomorrow evening is the drunk, showing his wise, and the other “A talking clock? Seri- for the house.” spends her evenings Open That Bottle friend the interior of the thinks he is sober. ously?” asked his aston- Immediately her atti- going around the bars Night. It’s a time to box, “So is the mon- Some folks drink li- ished friend. tude changed, and she of the city.” open those special bot- goose.” quor as if they want to be “Yup,” replied the tles of wine or cham- asked, “What did you buy mentioned in “Booze “Is she an alcoholic?” drunk. pagne hidden away Medicare? for the house, dear?” Who.” the friend asked. “How’s it work?” the and enjoy their con- Researchers recently He answered, “A round Heavy drinkers have “No, she’s looking for friend asked, squinting tents. Celebrate both found that men over six- of drinks!” what is known as saloon me.” at it. holidays, but be careful ty-five years of age who A Little Late arthritis - every night High Mathematics “Watch,” the drunk re- that you don’t wind up are moderate drinkers they get stiff in a differ- plied. He picked up the like some of the people are healthier than men A policeman stopped a ent joint. A college mathemat- mallet, gave the gong an in today’s stories. who don’t drink. Liquor wiped-out drunk and The driver who has ics professor did not ear-shattering pound, stores aren’t happy. asked, “Where do you “one for the road” will want to give up his and stepped back. Protection They’re not equipped to think you’re going?” have state troopers as drinking so he made a They stood looking at The drunk was floun- deal with a five-dollar “Home. I just left a a chaser. still of astounding con- each other for a moment. dering down Pun Alley co-pay for Wild Turkey. New Year’s party.” A bee went into a mar- struction. The alcohol Suddenly, someone on carrying a box with holes Something For The “New Year’s was over garita bar and came out 2 boils through old mag- the other side of the wall on the sides. He bumped House” a month ago.” hours later buzzing. netic coils; he said that screamed, “You jerk! It’s into a friend who asked, The husband was not “That’s why I figured If you drink too much it’s “proof by induc- three-fifteen in the “What do you have in home at his usual hour, I’d better head home!” alcohol you are an alco- tion.” morning!”

Jesse Preece’s classes at West Port High BRIDGES School. They are Isa- Continued from Page A1 Filler Files bella Davis, senior; Dariez Goodson, se- Where’s Wally New for golfers Looking for a unique miscreant so you can ard Middle School; nior; Amari Ramos, ju- way to say “I Love You” or truthfully declare that he Alexandra Laciuga, nior; and D’Angelo There are service pets, Attention all you golf has the love of your life or she is a snake in the sixth grade, Howard Rodriquez, senior. mainly dogs, that help in- aficionados, don’t let the betrayed you? grass. Middle School; and The Bridges Project dividuals with disabili- grass grow under your Don’t take this the Imani Linzy, eighth meets regularly from ties. And then there are feet! The Association of wrong way, but the Bronx A-Maze-Ing grade, Lake Weir Mid- 10 a.m. to noon on the emotional support ani- Mature American Citi- Zoo is peddling cock- It gets pretty cold in mals that provide comfort dle School. first Saturday of the zens reports that Nike roaches as an ideal Valen- Manitoba this time of the to those who need a Their teachers were month in the Ocala Po- will soon introduce for tine’s Day gift for that year and there’s plenty of break. Take Wally, says Pamela Earnest and lice Community Room, sale a new take on golf special someone in your snow so the proprietors of the Association of Mature Sara Stawecki, How- 402 South Pine Ave- shoes, golf sneakers fea- life, according to the As- A Maze in Corn, a sum- ard Middle School; American Citizens. nue, Ocala. The public turing what the shoe sociation of Mature Amer- mertime attraction just and Sarah Lay- Wally’s owner, Joie is always welcome. maker calls, “golf-ready ican Citizens. south of Winnipeg, re- endecker, Lake Weir Please visit marion- Henney, frequently visits The zoo claims that traction.” placed it with A Maze in Middle School. bridges.com or tele- schools and senior citizen while flowers wilt and And, to give them a bit Snow to attract winter- High school award phone 352-351-0687 for facilities in the greater candlelight fades, for a of panache they have fair- time tourists. Owner Clint winners are all from more information. York, Pennsylvania area, fee, they’ll name a roach way-like uppers made Masse believes his cre- encouraging the children after your loved one … from an AstroTurf-like ation will make it into the and the seniors he meets because roaches are material. The company Guinness Book of World to pet the 4 ½ foot emo- says when they hit the forever. tional support alligator. Or, if that special some- Records. His snow maze stores, they’ll cost a mere measures more than “He’s just like a dog. He $140 a pair. one has done you wrong, wants to be loved and pet- as they say, you may want 29,000 square feet, says ted,” says Henney. What’s in a name? to turn to a zoo “down the Association of Mature under.” American Citizens, sig- The Wild Life Zoo in nificantly larger than the Sydney, Australia will 17,222 square foot Thun- enter you in a competi- der Bay snow maze in On- tion to name a very tario, which currently deadly snake after that holds the record. www.smcitizen.com Friday, February 22, 2019 ~ A5 A6 ~ Friday, February 22, 2019 www.smcitizen.com

At the Movies ‘Alita: Battle Angel’ Bob Garver have a “normal” life, but well. She makes quick tersect at various points, larged eyes off-putting, I even without her mecha- enemies of Grewishka and on one hand it’s nice think they’re pretty). nizations, she’s too head- (Jackie Earle Haley), a that we don’t have to Also complex are the strong for that. She wants hulking assassin who memorize two distinct action sequences, which he first trailer Still, there was an unmis- to become a star player works for evil Zalem sci- sets of characters, but on contain violence not usu- “Alita: Battle takable air of studio ner- in a popular sport called entist Nova, who knows the other it’s hard to ally seen in a PG-13 T Angel” appeared vousness surrounding Motorball, an interest some key information keep track of who fits in movie (I assume the rat- over a year ago for a re- the film, and if they she shares with her best about Alita’s human life. where. And come to ing was saved because lease in July, during the didn’t have confidence in friend Hugo (Keean Alita thinks that maybe think of it, it’s hard to fig- the violence is mostly hot summer movie sea- their own movie, then Johnson). The champion she can collect enough ure out just why the bad happening to cyborgs), son. But apparently some why should we? I will say of Motorball gets to go bounties to buy her and guys hate Alita so much. but are some of the most edits needed to be made, that if any of the delays live in the sky city of Hugo’s way into Zalem, She’d probably leave creative in recent mem- and the film was pushed caused the film to be as Zalem and leave all the but she’ll have to do so at them alone if they’d just or y. back to December, where passable as it is, then the it could take advantage wait was worth it. chumps on Earth behind. the expense of both crim- quit escalating things The story of “Alita: Bat- of the Christmas season. Rosa Salazar stars as It is also possible to earn inals and fellow bounty and trying to kill her. tle Angel” is a mess, but Then it got yanked away Alita, a teenage cyborg one’s way into Zalem hunters like cyborg The charm of “Alita: there’s enough good for from that too, finally living in what else, a dys- through the discretion of Zapan (Ed Skrein, cer- Battle Angel” lies in its me to give the film a mild landing this past week- topian future. Her Vector (Mahershala Ali), tainly in his element as a ambitiousness. There’s a recommendation. end, where there was a human head was found a Motorball honcho who mostly-robot). And she complex world at work Grade: B- lot of money up for grabs in a scrapyard by Dr. deals in an illegal robotic also she wants to stop here, filled with complex “Alita: Battle Angel” is with Valentine’s Day and Dyson Ido (Christoph limbs trade. Grewishka and Nova just characters with complex rated PG-13 for se- Presidents’ Day falling Waltz), who took her You could fill a whole because they need stop- looks. Seriously, a lot of quences of sci-fi action only four days apart. The home and gave her a ro- movie with the Motorball ping. time went into designing and violence, and for movie did claw its way to botic body that he had business, but this movie There is a lot of plot the cyborgs on display, some language. Its run- No. 1 at the box office de- left over from his late also finds room for a and world-building to un- especially Alita herself, ning time is 122 minutes. bounty hunter storyline. pack in this movie, and with her two robotic bod- spite not exactly fitting daughter, much to the an- ———n——— the bill of a date movie noyance of his ex-wife Alita learn that Ido is a it’s easy to get lost. The ies and manga-inspired (there is a romance, but Chiren (Jennifer Con- “Hunter Warrior” and Motorball and Hunter facial features (some Contact Bob Garver at also a ton of violence). nelly). Ido wants Alita to she’s drawn to that life as Warrior storylines do in- people will find her en- [email protected]. www.smcitizen.com Friday, February 22, 2019 ~ A7

Don’t let fear of falling stop you Health Corner Patricia A. Woodbury RN MSN from walking

Fear of falling, balance, putting them at A rollator is a walking four legs and have to be For people who enjoy wisely and be sure you due to pain or muscle risk for a fall or injury. assistance device with lifted and set down as walking for exercise Mc like the weight, the fea- weakness, may get in the She encourages the use three or four wheels, you walk. Some have Sweeney recommends tures and the quality. In- way of physical activity. of supportive devices. hand grips and hand wheels. A walker is a using hiking poles (also surance usually will pay If that is true, consider She says, “The biggest brakes; It is pushed, good choice for people known as trekking or for only one. getting some supportive barrier is people do not rather than lifted like a who need maximum sup- Nordic poles). They So start walking and equipment like a cane, want to look old.” She walker. McSweeney en- port. If you have severe allow for faster walking, keep walking to get hiking poles, walker or tries to convince them courages standing pain, you can unload the tend to help with bal- stronger and keep those rollator. that it is better than risk- straight and walk inside weight off the spine or ance, and improve pos- joints mobile. People with osteoar- ing a fall. of it, not to push it in leg by putting more ture because you are ———n——— thritis need to exercise. If you need just a little front of you like a shop- weight on your arms as standing up straight and Movement helps to circu- bit of assistance, try a ping cart. They also you advance your legs. your arms are at a right Source: Cleveland late synovial fluid across cane that you hold on the come with a seat when Whether you are using angle to your body. Clinic, Arthritis Advisor, the joint, which provides unaffected side of the you need to stop and rest. a rollator or a walker, These poles provide a June 2017. lubrication and nutrition body. As you walk move Rollators come in vary- and you go to stand up better workout because to the joint. Maureen the can with the weaker ing styles and weights, from or sit down on a you are using your arms. McSweeney, physical leg. McSweeney recom- with different types of chair, always keep your They also keep you safer therapist at the Cleve- mends an adjustable tires. They can be pur- hands on the stable sur- on uneven surfaces. land Clinic says that peo- cane over a wooden one. chased online or at drug face of the chair, not the Medicare and most in- ple who hurt and are They have a soft hand- or retail stores for about support device. McSwee- surance companies will afraid of falling tend to grip and come in differ- $100 to $300. You might ney says,” If you lose cover some or all of the decrease their activity. ent styles and colors. A want to take a rollator for your balance you will go cost of a cane, walker or This sets up a vicious quad cane has four small a test run before pur- into the chair.” rollator; but choose cycle where they become extensions at the bottom chasing. weaker and have worse for extra stability. Walkers usually have A8 ~ Friday, February 22, 2019 www.smcitizen.com

S UTH MARION Citizen Opinion 20441 E. Pennsylvania Ave. Dunnellon, FL 34434 email: [email protected]

Arbor Outlook Time by Margaret Out! McDowell Wealth Tax, nnn Horse Sense John Preston and the Procrastination was Kingfish killing me softly AUTHOR’S NOTE: How should we treat addicts This is the second in a sat at my desk stunned, staring blankly at the four-part series on wall as if the wall was about to tell me some- in our society? wealth and income in- I thing important I didn’t already know. equality in America. The results were back. Sara Lally of Wills Eye Hos- Donald R. Stanton nnn pital in Philadelphia had just told me over the tele- Prison Fellowship Ministry Your “Every man a king... phone, “If you don’t have surgery, you have maybe a advocate/pastor, Ocala every man a king... year until it metastasizes and reaches your brain.” for you can be a million- “Come on,” I remember countering, “aren’t we We can all agree that our nation is view aire. being a little dramatic here. I may not look fine, but I struggling with a problematic sub- But there’s something be- feel fine.” stance abuse crisis. But what we can’t nal for dealing drugs to addicts. That longing to others... Mr. Tough Guy, Mr. I Don›t Need to Waste Money seem to agree on is how we are going makes sense. But when we arrest ad- there’s enough for all peo- Going To The Doctor, Mr. Nothing Bothers Me was to address this problem. Time and dicts, individuals whose only crime ple to share.” suddenly bothered, extremely irritated. time again, we have the proof dis- was falling prey to the use of mind-al- “Every Man a King” as We’re going to get real here. Mr. Invincible sud- played for all to see that rampant in- tering substances, we make a big mis- performed by Huey Long denly realized he was no longer invincible, but he carceration, stereotyping, and take. A jail cell will never help an was vulnerable. The street fighter in me told me I criminalization of drug users does addict. Neither will stereotyping ad- T. Harry Williams be- could still beat this, but I was humbled at the same not work. We continue to take this ap- dicts or labeling them as criminals. gins his biography of time. Hitting the proverbial brick wall is a challenge proach in our efforts to address ad- Since 2012, the city of Seattle, Senator Huey Long with no one wants to face at any time, anywhere. dicts. Washington, has utilized a very pro- an apocryphal story. Wil- Those seven no-hitters I broke up over the years in Incarceration Does not Work active approach in its effort to curb liams describes Long on my softball and baseball playing days, didn’t mean Merely incarcerating an addict for the city’s drug-use statistics. The city the political stump, en- diddly now. Neither did that 10-point, 18 rebound, using drugs or for possessing drugs is created a program called the Law dearing himself to five block, six assist basketball game I had in college. rather foolish. No jail cell will serve Enforcement Assisted Diversion pro- crowds in Catholic areas Even though this wasn’t a game, for awhile, I looked to help an addict overcome their de- gram, or LEAD. The goal of the pro- with tales of how he at it as one, a contest I could somehow still win on pendency habit, yet jail cells are gram was, rather than sending hitched up the family my own, or so I thought. Or, did I think at all? I am where we choose to send our nation’s arrested addicts to jail, to connect horse and buggy to take not sure ... drug users. Simple incarceration is a them directly with drug and alcohol his grandparents to Mass In my mind, it suddenly occurred to me I couldn›t mistake. addiction treatment services. every Sunday; then, later beat this one on my own, but I still wouldn’t give up More than 40 years ago, President According to the “Recidivism Re- in the same day, speaking the ship – not yet anyway. All those come-from-be- Richard Nixon called for a “War on port,” a detailed, nonbiased review of to a predominantly Prot- hind wins over the years couldn’t help me now, or Drugs.” Since then, the addiction LEAD’s effectiveness, the people in estant crowd, Long re- could they? I wanted just one more monumental vic- problem has considerably increased. the LEAD program were 60 percent lates how he hitched up tory, until it became blatantly obvious I had no more Every year, we incarcerate more less likely to be arrested within the the wagon again to take chances left. and more people for drug use or drug six months following their transfer to his Baptist grandparents All along, I felt I could always fly above the radar possession, costing Americans mil- addiction treatment than recovering to worship. and be safe. Not anymore. I ran headlong into a drug users not in the LEAD program. When a political friend lions of tax dollars and further stuff- roadblock so hard reality smacked me harshly in the ing our already over-filled prison Seattle is already showing what commented about Long’s face, knocking me senseless for awhile. Abruptly positive benefits occur when drug family and their religious system. without warning, it occurred to me – dead, coffin, According to the Federal Bureau of addicts are helped, not stereotyped, affiliations, Long scoffed, grave, funeral, tears – no more coffee and doughnuts. Prisons, as of December 2018, there and jailed. What would our nation be “Don’t be a fool. We Who is going to take care of my elderly dog Spike if were about 180,429 federal prisoners. like if every city could follow Seat- didn’t even have a I’m gone? Around 77,649 these inmates were tle’s model? horse.” This time, the magic wasn›t there. Cancer has a serving sentences for drug-related of- n Stereotyping addicts does not It’s a humorous politi- funny way of knocking the air squarely out of you fenses, even if that offense was noth- work. cal story. But Long’s so- without prior warning, knocking you off all those ing more than being caught using n Criminalizing addicts does not cial programs were pegs you so meticulously climbed over the years. drugs. work. serious, and they created If I had surgery, I faced a future living in freak n Treating addicts as victims does a powerful reaction, both status. The right eye had to come out because And from a timeline perspective, not work. for and against his ideas. the basal cell carcinoma had attached itself to the our rate of incarcerating addicts has n Treating them as the dregs of so- Long initially offered back of the eye and wasn’t going to let go. My nose gone up alarmingly. Our nation jailed his “Share The Wealth” had to be partially reconstructed to repair the dam- 5,000 drug users in 1980. We impris- ciety does not work. proposal in a radio ad- oned 450,000 drug offenders in 2016. age. A titanium rod had to be inserted to stabilize all See LETTERS/Page A10 dress in February 1934. the lost bone the cancer had devoured. Wonderful ... It’s one thing to arrest a drug crimi- That year almost half The man who always had some kind of answer was of Americans lived in left speechless. Even though I had always enjoyed poverty and the average the challenge of the "big stage," this stage I could READER OPINIONS INVITED annual family income § The opinions expressed in South Names and communities will be was around $1,250 (about See TIME/Page A10 Marion Citizen editorials are the opin- printed; phone numbers will not be pub- $24,000 in today’s dol- lars). The public was lis- ions of the editorial board of the news- lished or given out. tening attentively to paper. § We reserve the right to edit letters Long’s ideas. By year’s South Marion § Viewpoints depicted in political car- for length, libel, fairness and good end, the movement toons, columns or letters do not neces- taste. Not all contributions are printed. boasted three million sarily represent the opinion of the § Letters longer than 550 words may members. A little over a Citizen editorial board. be regarded as columns and printed on year later, shortly before Publisher: § Groups or individuals are invited to a space-available basis, and writers will his assassination, Long’s GERRY MULLIGAN express their opinions in letters to the be limited to one contribution per week. Senate office was receiv- editor and guest columns. The deadline is one week prior to each ing 60,000 letters ... a Manager: § Persons wishing to contact the edi- Friday’s issue. week. JOHN MURPHY tor should call 854-3986. § Send letters to: The South Marion Long outlined his pro- § All letters must be signed and in- Citizen Editor, 20441 E. Pennsylvania gram’s details at the Editor: clude a phone number and community Ave., Dunnellon, FL 34432; or email See ARBOR/Page A10 DAVID DAVIS name, including letters sent via e-mail. [email protected]. www.smcitizen.com Friday, February 22, 2019 ~ A9 ‘Schoolgirl Missing’ Did you know? Title: Schoolgirl Missing deep scars. Nineteenth century from Saint Nicholas.” Author: Sue Fortin Neve herself is trou- political cartoonist Though the image bled by her past that in- Bookmark Thomas Nast was of Santa Claus has among the most influ- evolved from Nast’s he novel centers cludes the death of a Pat Wellington around the dis- sister and the estrange- ential people of his original in 1863, he is T appearance of ment of the rest of her time, and chances are credited with forming fourteen-year-old family. To cope with her he’s still influencing the basis of the popu- Poppy who vanished on problems she’s taking the lives of millions of lar depictions of a family boat trip leav- an art therapy class young people today, Santa that have be- ing her dad Kit and taught by a handsome more than a century come synonymous stepmom Neve devas- artist named Jake who’s lies dying in a hospital. somewhat implausible. after his death. with the holiday sea- tated. Prior to the inci- attracted to her and Suspicion turns to Kit In addition to his son. dent we glimpse doesn’t try to hide it. whose jealousy had political cartoons, problems within the As if things aren’t bad driven him earlier to which historians feel Kelley Blue Book small family. Poppy has enough, a face from Ne- confront Jake in his are invaluable tools The automotive re- special needs, having ve’s past comes to town studio. in helping to under- source Kelley Blue been deprived of oxy- to haunt her. And in- The pace of “School- stand how nineteenth Book says that, through gen at her birth which credible as it seems the girl Missing” is swift, century Americans the first half of 2018 claimed the life of her police have turned but there comes a point felt about their coun- (the most recent data at mother. their attention to her— when confusion sets in try’s civil war, Nast the time of press), the Neve adopted the girl as if she’d kidnap her and it’s hard to know created the now- best-selling vehicles in and loves her very own daughter. who the good guys are. iconic image of Santa the United States were much yet she’s desper- Soon tensions build As events spiral out Claus. as follows: ate to have a child of to create marital dis- of control it appears Nast, who was born 1. Chevrolet Equinox her own. Kit, however, cord. Kit and Neve that several people in 1840, created the 2. Toyota Corolla is adamant that there even amid the crisis of might want Poppy out image in 1863 after 3. Honda Civic will be no additions to finding Poppy separate of the picture. The his wife read him 4. Toyota Camry the family. The trauma for a brief time. truth when it finally Clement Clark 5. Honda CR-V of losing his first wife Then artist Jake is comes out is shocking Moore’s poem “A Visit 6. Toyota RAV4 in childbirth has left brutally attacked and and at least to me A10 ~ Friday, February 22, 2019 www.smcitizen.com

tion is the right ap- with Residential Treat- one best left for a differ- low one’s path to a bet- trol one’s own life, how proach. ment and What it Means ent day, but we can all ter life and a better can one ever be truly LETTERS There are a lot of to be Free agree that if people suf- condition for themselves free? Continued from Page A8 wrong ways to address Freedom is something fer from addiction and and their loved ones. Let’s dedicate our addicts, and there is we can all get behind. they want to get free Addiction is a horrible focus to helping others n Treating them as only one right way. And But a society that ex- from it, we should help conflict that comes from overcome addiction, and diseased patients does that right way is to treat periences freedom from them do so. repeated drug use or al- let’s treat addicts as not work. them with compassion addiction, not the free- We should not stereo- cohol misuse, and by its human beings, good peo- Treating them as indi- and understanding and dom to express oneself type them or punish very definition, it inhib- ple who have fallen on viduals who made a se- to insist that they get through addiction, them in any way. its one’s freedom be- hard times, not crimi- ries of bad decisions proper treatment at a would be better. Everyone deserves a cause addiction is a nals or degraded indi- and who now need help drug and alcohol reha- The argument of crim- chance at freedom, free- powerful habit that one viduals who need getting out of the situa- bilitation program. inalization or decrimi- dom to live, freedom to has no control over. punishment and isola- Addressing Addiction nalization of drug use is breathe, freedom to fol- With no ability to con- tion.

Long’s era, are being holds and it is estimated tax requirements aimed inequality issues? Fi- ment, LLC, (850.608.6121 floated by political lead- that it would raise some at the wealthy are on the nally, if passed, will such – www.arborwealth.net), ARBOR ers to address wealth $2.75 trillion over 10 political horizon. How proposals unite us or fur- a fiduciary, “fee-only” Continued from Page A8 and income inequality. years. Another proposal we personally feel about ther divide us? registered investment One major candidate suggests a return to a these proposals is likely Next week: We con- advisory firm located height of the Great De- recently proposed a 2 progressive tax rate dependent upon where sider earned income and near Destin, FL. This pression, so wealth redis- percent tax on U.S. nearing 70 percent for in- we stand on the financial capital gains taxes. column should not be tribution proposals were households with a net come over a certain food chain more than considered personalized well received by millions worth greater than $50 threshold. A third major anything else. But here investment advice and ———n——— of the unemployed and million, with the tax ris- political figure proposes are a couple of ques- Margaret R. McDowell, provides no assurance underemployed. Today, ing to 3 percent for net an additional tax credit tions. Are these wealth ChFC®, AIF®, author of that any specific strategy new wealth redistribu- worth greater than $1 bil- for middle income filers. redistribution ideas fair? the syndicated economic or investment will be tion ideas and tax pro- lion. The tax is, of One thing is certain: And will these proposals, column “Arbor Out- suitable or profitable for posals, the likes of which course, directed at the attempts at wealth redis- if passed, actually rectify look,” is the founder of an investor. we haven’t seen since top 0.1 percent of house- tribution through new our wealth and income Arbor Wealth Manage-

tic approach would She had me lay on a Cognetti, Joe Biden’s son- and informed me this gade American Indians mend the entire being – hospital bed in her living in-law, and Dr. Howard was normal procedure skinned them alive. It TIME mind, body, spirit, emo- room (strange location Krein would assist from before major, major sur- was not a pleasant feel- Continued from Page A8 tion – in the quest for for that), mumbled some Jefferson, while Sara gery because Dr. Curry ing or a comfortable optimal health and well- hocus-pocus chants I did Lally, Carol Shields, and wanted his patients mon- overnight. have done without. ness. Sounded good to not understand, (oh yes, Jerry A. Shields, all from itored the evening A week later, on There were no strings me, so I scheduled an she did), and then turned Wills Eye, also would be and overnight prior to October the third to be left to pull, no trick appointment. After one on some creepy, eerie there. I had never gotten surgery. precise, I was finally plays, no more miracle visit, I did not return. music while using some this much attention be- At 6:45 Tuesday released from the medic- finishes. I was helpless, Upon arrival at her kind of prism dial with fore. These were some morning, my taxi – a inal smell of a hospital nothing left in the play- home office, I found a lights flashing different pretty heavy hitters. wheelchair – arrived, room. In the wind and book. middle-aged woman colors. At least, I thought, Surgery was and I was ushered to heading home felt good, I admit I dragged my dressed like a there would be some lev- rescheduled for Tuesday, the prep area where I even though I faced an feet scheduling the stereotypical gypsy who ity to compensate for the Sept. 27, 2011, 8 a.m., the was asked to get on a gur- uncertain future. My surgery. July 25, 2011 was working at the local serious situation I was third time it had been ney, and told to relax as daily schedule would be was the initial date the carnival. She had shaggy facing. scheduled. The second if anyone can relax fac- boring and repetitious. operation was sched- hair, long dangling ear- No way was this legit. I time, my ride was a no ing major surgery. Soon There would be an after- uled, but as soon as I rings, a multi-colored half expected some witch show, but the doctors after, I received “the noon visit from a nurse, heard the date, there dress, thigh-high boots. doctor to pop out of the maintained their posi- shot.” This wasn’t an exe- who would stop by the was no way that was The mustache, however, closet wearing witch doc- tive approach. I guess cution, but it felt like house to check my vitals going to happen. Thurs- was missing. She had tor clothes, chanting you could say, the third how one might feel. I and replace the dress- day, July 25, 1985 was the me fill out an applica- magical verses and shak- time was a charm. counted 14 blurry faces ing on my left forearm day my mother passed. tion and sign a dis- ing some kind of rattle I arrived in Center and bodies surrounding where the skin graft In the interim, I claimer form while while dripping snake oil City, Philadelphia at my gurney and the came from. decided to consider we discussed my medi- on me and yelling Thomas Jefferson Uni- next thing I knew, it was I also knew I had 35 ra- alternatives to cal situation and his- "Oooga, booga, cow- versity Hospital about 9:30 p.m., I was back in diation treatments to surgery. Maybe, there tory. The disclaimer abunga, get along little- 3:15 Monday afternoon, my room, and the Phila- look forward to during was something out there, should have been doggie." I got out of and once in Dr. Curry›s delphia Phillies’ base- the mornings. It can’t get maybe surgery wouldn’t a flashing red warning Dodge quickly ... never seventh floor office, was ball game was not on the much more exciting than be necessary. I decided sign that this might even met Miss Kitty. greeted by one of the television as I had previ- that! to try holistic healing not possibly work, but I Dr. Joseph Curry of male nurses who had ously requested. That The 35 radiation and found a woman in was already inside the Thomas Jefferson been assigned my case. was quickly rectified, but treatments, however, Norristown, Penn., who building. I was commit- University Hospital, an He ushered me across my left arm was on fire. were not exciting at practiced this art, and ted, or maybe needed to ENT (Ears, Nose, Throat) the street to the Emer- The skin graft covering all. Each would consist of who claimed her holis- be committed. Too late, Specialist, would be the gency Room entrance my missing right eye my body prone on a table now ... lead surgeon. Dr. David where I was admitted came from my left fore- with melodramatic, and would stay the night. arm. This must be how awful mood music play He helped me fill out the cowboys in wild west necessary paperwork days felt when rene- See RADIATION/Page A11 www.smcitizen.com Friday, February 22, 2019 ~ A11

utes or so every day ex- the Lincoln Highway lo- charge. cided to appear in. The an exploratory opera- RADIATION cept Saturday and cation was only 12 min- Now, if only the coffee problem was the sur- tion to make certain the Continued from Page A10 Sunday. utes from where I lived had been better and geon back then had entire area was clean. I This time, though, I at that time in Downing- there had been dancing called me a week after said I would take my didn›t have to go to town, Penn. Under the girls ... the minor surgery chances, that I felt it ing which actually put Philadelphia each day. direction of Dr. Gregory I'm still here seven- which was done with was healing nicely. Dr. me in a bad mood, not Thomas Jefferson Uni- Ochsner, a radiation on- and-a-half years later. local anesthetics. She John made the incorrect a mellow one as it was versity Hospital had an cologist, and his high- The moral of this said after reviewing the decision. Don’t you do designed to. I had a hood outreach clinic in Exton, ly-skilled staff, the story is don’t procrasti- x-rays, she felt she the same thing. over my face covering the same little burg division was full-service nate. In 2002, I had a might not have removed As Sylvester Stallone the area which did not I grew up in. Called Jef- and even offered trans- small cyst removed from all the decayed tissue. has been known to say, need radiation. This ferson Imaging Compre- portation to-and-from the same location the She wanted to resched- Time beats everyone. It would go on for 20 min- hensive Cancer Care, each treatment at no basal cell carcinoma de- ule the surgery and do is undefeated." Senior Services celebrates March for Meals In celebration of the 17th Annual March for Meals, speak out for seniors and raise awareness for the Saturday, March 9th, with Registration opening at 8 Marion Senior Services, between March 1 and March power of Meals on Wheels. a.m. and walk beginning at 9 a.m. at the Veterans Me- 31, will join in with Meals on Wheels programs from During the entire month, Meals on Wheels programs morial Park and McPherson Complex. Suggested do- across the country to support our senior neighbors to join together in the March for Meals to celebrate the nation $10.00. Finish Line Sponsor is Jenkins live healthier and more nourished lives in their own proven collaboration of local community groups, faith- Automotive, Start Line Sponsor is Grand Oaks Dental homes. The 2019 Community Champions Week will be based organizations, businesses, all levels of govern- Care along with a host of several others. celebrated Tuesday, March 19 - Friday, March 23. ment and compassionate individuals to ensure that For more information about the National campaign, During this time, we encourage programs to invite seniors are not forgotten. In addition to the on-going visit www.marchformeals.com local, state and federal officials, local celebrities and festivities, Marion Senior Services and its sponsors For more information about our agency, visit www. other prominent community figures to deliver meals, will host the March for Meals Awareness Walk, marionseniorservices.org A12 ~ Friday, February 22, 2019 www.smcitizen.com Happenings

the last Friday of every month faith, as we worship God in a includes a blend of familiar Jews across North America at 6 Thursday, Feb. 21 at 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., at traditional way. Learn more hymns of the church as well as p.m., Friday, March 1, to eat, JAZZED! Quartet at Live Oak Hall at the Master the about us and view a sermon contemporary praise songs drink, relax, enjoy, debate and Possibilities Education Center, from our preaching minister, with a full praise band. Pastor celebrate at the 23rd Annual College Road 4815 SW 80th St., Ocala. John Scott, on at www.swchris- David Bellows will bring a mes- Shabbat Across America and “JAZZED!” a ladies quartet Each meeting involves an ed- tianchurch.com. sage of inspiration and Canada. will be the entertainment at ucational or research related encouragement. Our Shabbat Across America this month’s Young At Heart at element, a unique Parkin- Maranatha Baptist Monday, Feb. 25: Monday eve- dinner will be kosher cold cuts noon, Thursday, Feb. 21. son’s-related exercise element Church ning the men come together at (corned beef, pastrami and tur- and break outpatient and care- 6:30 p.m. for a Bible study uti- key), kosher pickles and deli “JAZZED!” sings music from We you to a worship service giver support sessions. lizing the study book “The Attri- salads catered by Joel’s of St. various genres including pop, at Maranatha Baptist Church. The Friday, Feb. 22, meeting butes of God” by Dr. Steven J. Petersburg. gospel, barbershop, show tunes We are a loving multicultural presentation features a webi- Lawson A special musical program and more. Everyone is invited church where all are welcome. nar with Anthony Lang, MD on Tuesday, Feb. 26: Women who will feature Cantor Alisa For- to bring a covered dish, enjoy Experience a church family re- “New Developments and Fu- are interested in crafts meet man playing guitar and singing. lunch, the entertainment and ception. Maranatha Baptist ture Treatments in Parkinson’s Tuesday morning at 9:30 to The whole community is wel- an all-around good time at Col- Church doctrine is totally Bi- Disease.” work on group and individual come to attend. lege Road Baptist Church start- ble-based. All ages are For more information, visit projects. The cost for the Shabbat ing at noon. College Road is welcome. our web site at mindandmotion. Christ’s Church of Marion Across America will be $18 per located at 5010 SW College Sunday: 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. org or call Joyce at County is located at 6768 SW person. RSVP to Marcie by Sun- Road in Ocala. Sunday school classes for all 352-390-2359. 80th Street off State Road 200. day, Feb. 24, by emailing mar- ages; 10:45 a.m., adult morning The McKameys last For more information on all our [email protected] or by worship service and Junior events or for directions visit our leaving a message at (352) 513- concert Saturday, Feb. 23 Church for our children. website at www.ccomc.org or 4629. Payment for the dinner Please note, Junior Church is The McKameys are a family Moose Lodge yard sale contact the church office at must be received by Sunday, now for young people up to age group based out of Clinton, Ten- West Marion No. 2356 Moose 352-861-6182. Feb. 24. Mail checks to Marcie 8 or in the 3rd grade. nessee and have been in minis- Lodge is holding a yard sale Tuegel, 1210 W. Skyview Land- 6 p.m. Evening services. try for more than six decades. fundraiser to support the lodge, ings Drive, Hernando, FL Wednesday 6:45 p.m. prayer They are on their final live tour community and charities from 8 34442. time and Bible study. Tuesday, Feb. 26 and will be at College Road a.m. to 3 p.m., Feb. 23, at 10411 Beth Sholom of Citrus County A nursery is provided for in- Baptist Church on Thursday, SW 110th St., Dunnellon, FL Joy Lutheran Church is a liberal Conservative fants through 4 years old at all Feb. 21. 34432. Tables are available for Joy Lutheran Church will Synagogue, services. The harmonies of this family rent inside for $15, outside for host a free movie with popcorn Maranatha Baptist Church is along with great songs give $10, and bring your own spot $5. the last Tuesday of each month located at 525 Marion Oaks Saturday, March 2 them a unique opportunity to Call the lodge to make arrange- at 1:30 p.m. in Swenson Hall Trail. Please call: 352-347-5683 share God’s love as well as en- ments 352-854-2200 (Fellowship Hall). Freedom Library Chess for further information and/or courage the saints. Whether The first movie on Tuesday, directions to the church. Club they are performing one of Countryside Feb. 26, is “I Can Only Imag- The Freedom Library Chess their classics like “Right On ine.” Dennis Quaid and Trace Presbyterian Marion Chamber Music Club will meet from 10 a.m. to 1 Time,” “I’ve Won,” “Unspoken Adkins star in this inspiring Join us for our lecture series p.m. Saturday, March 2. The li- Request,” “There Is Jesus,” Society story behind MercyMe’s be- at 3 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 24, at brary is at 5870 SW 95th Street, their signature song, “God On The Marion Chamber Music loved hit song. It is an uplifting Countryside Presbyterian Ocala. All players are wel- The Mountain” or a new re- Society presents award-win- journey illustrating the power Church, 7200 SW State Road come! Call 352-873-2276 for lease, there is an undeniable ning pianist Jasmin Arakawa at of God. 200, Ocala, for “Hiking the Ap- information. energy that carries them 3 p.m., Sunday, Feb. 24, at All are welcome. Bring a palachian Trail,” presented by through each performance. Queen of Peace Catholic friend and join the fun. Bob Anderson. Thinking about Rocks the Reilly The group has been awarded Church, 6455 SW SR 200, Ocala. Joy Lutheran Church is lo- taking a long walk? How about WIND-FM 95.5 / 92.5 / 107.9 several different Singing News Dr. cated off SR 200 at 7045 SW a 2,000-mile walk? What would “Rocks the Reilly” Saturday, Fan Awards through the years Arakawa is assistant profes- 83rd Place, Ocala. For more in- that be like? See the vista sights March 2, at 7:30 p.m. at the and also Ruben and Peg Bean sor of Piano at the University of formation contact the church on the big screens and catch a Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE are both recipients of The Mar- Florida, and she is going to office at 352-854-4509 ext. 2. glimpse of walking the Appala- Ninth St., Ocala, FL 34470. vin Norcross Award and Nor- perform chians. There is no charge; Join WIND-FM for The Beat- cross/Templeton Award, a variety of pieces including however, donations will be Thursday, Feb. 28 les tribute show “Let It Be,” respectively. In 2016, Peg McK- Rhapsody in Blue. The concert accepted. which features virtually all the amey Bean was inducted into is sponsored by Ocala Piano Rainbow Springs hit songs recorded by The Beat- The Southern Gospel Music Conservatory, LLC. MCMS is al- Crossroads Church Garden Club les. The boys will entertain you Hall Of Fame. ways exceptional and always The Rainbow Springs Garden with three professional cos- The concert begins at 7 p.m. Family, Faith & Fun Day will Free. For more information, Club will meet Thursday, Feb. tume changes and musical per- with doors opening at 6:30 p.m. again be at Crossroads church call 867-1340 or visit us at mari- 28, 1 – 3 p.m. at the Masonic formances just like The A $10 donation will be accepted Saturday, Feb. 23, from 10 a.m. onchambermusic.com. at the door. College Road Bap- to 3 p.m. on the grounds. There Lodge 136, 20751 Powell Road, Beatles. tist Church is at 5010 SW Col- will be games, prizes, rides, Soprano Saxophonist in Dunnellon. Please park be- Tickets start at $15 and can lege Road in Ocala, 34474, 1.7 food and so much more. Come hind the building. be purchased at reillyartscen- Eirinn Abu, soprano saxo- miles west of I-75. join the fun. Our speakers will be Terry ter.com. phonist, in concert, at First Our Common Ground Fellow- Grier and Nancy Myers from For more information, please Christian Church, 1908 E Ft Ocala Woman’s Club ship will be meeting at the new Grumbles House Antiques and contact Lisa Varner at 352-566- King St, Ocala Fl, Sunday Feb- Piesanos restaurant Saturday, Garden Shop in Dunnellon’s 0970 or email lvarner@ GFWC Greater Ocala Wom- ruary 24, 2019 at 3:00 p.m. The Feb. 23, at 4 p.m. Come and Historic Village. They bring a ncfmgroup.com. an’s Club is hosting its second event is free. Love offering. bring a friend. truckload of plants to show and men’s fashion show with the Contact Linda Schultz at 352- Our annual Youth Carnival sell to help us plan for our Chair Yoga theme, “Heart of a Hero” will 867-7202 if you need more will again be with us from spring gardening. They usually Chair Yoga, at 10:30 a.m., Sat- be 6-8 p.m., Feb. 21 at Ocala information. Marion County Association of March 7 through March 10. have some new plants never urday, March 2, at Freedom Realtors, 3105 NE 14th St. The Come and enjoy the fun, food German American Club seen before in our area as well Public Library. For more infor- and fellowship with us. as many hardscape items to en- mation, call Ingrid at 854-7950. featured models will be local The German American Club Mondays: Monday Night hance our living landscapes. heroes. Cost of attendance is of Marion County will hold a Bible Study at 6:30 p.m. We always enjoy having them Sunday, March 3 $25, which includes a front row Fasching (Mardi Gras) dinner/ - Tuesdays: Intercessory because they are a great source seat, libations and hors d’oeu dance Sunday, Feb. 24, at noon Sunday Afternoon vres. Proceeds benefit local Prayer Meeting at 9 a.m. of inspiration. at Marion Oaks Community charities. GFWC is dedicated to Wednesdays: Family Training Grow & Share chairwoman Musicale Center. A pulled pork dinner living the volunteer spirit … Hour at 7 p.m. This includes Martha Thomson is ill so will The annual Sunday After- will be served at 1 p.m. Music and having a bit of fun. For Crossroads Kids, Crossroads not have her plant tables. Oth- noon Musicale takes place at will be provided by Alpine Ex- ticket information call Char- Nursery & Crossroads Youth ers may bring their extra plants First Congregational United press. Costume or dressy casual lene Earl at 352-624-2175 or Ministries. to share if they would like. Church of Christ, 7171 SW State attire is requested. Bring your Pam Ruder 513-315-1663. Thursdays: Our Spanish “Es- Pick up the Members’ Road 200, Ocala, March 3 at 4 own beverage. Tickets are $20 tudio Biblico” at 7 p.m. Monthly Memo for important p.m. Church members and per member or $25 per LiUNA Sunday Services: Sunday information and announce- friends will entertain with a va- non-member and may be pur- School, 8:30 a.m.; Worship Ser- ments. See the bulletin board riety of solos, duets, and ensem- Blue collar workers are giv- chased by calling Mary Wisecup vices at 9 a.m., 11 a.m. and our for last month’s meeting pic- bles as they sing, play, and ing back to Marion County resi- at 352-789-6499. dents in need. The Laborers’ Spanish Service at 1 p.m. Nurs- tures and minutes. perform an afternoon of music International Union of North ery Ministry provided for all Christ’s Church Rainbow Springs Garden and fun, and the choir will America Local 517 is making services. Club is open to everyone in the present a medley from “The If you are looking for a monetary donations to the Crossroads Church, 8070 SW surrounding areas. Annual Sound of Music.” Donations church home where Christ is American Heart Association 60th Ave. (south off SR 200) membership is $15. Visitor fee will be gratefully accepted to first, you won’t want to miss the and United Way of Marion 352-291-2080. is $5 per meeting, which can be help support the church’s services at Christ’s Church of County at 6:30 p.m., Thursday, See our new website at www. applied toward an annual music ministry, and light re- Marion County this week. Feb. 21, at FOP Lodge No. 129 ourcrossroads.church for up to membership. Sign in to be in- freshments served following Sunday, Feb. 24 – 9:30 a.m.: at 2641 N. Magnolia Ave., before date calendar events. cluded in the door prize draw- the program. For information We begin each Lord’s day with the union’s membership ings. Questions? Call call 352-419-8796. Sunday School classes for all meeting. Sunday, Feb. 24 352-465-0310. ages at 9:30 a.m. We offer six (6) Friday, March 8 You are invited adult classes on a variety of top- Friday, March 1 Friday, Feb. 22 ics. A synopsis of each class is Worship with Southwest Ball Brothers Concert available on our website. Parkinson’s Support Christian Church, Sunday at Shabbat Across Christ’s Church of Marion Sunday, Feb. 24 – 10:30 a.m.: 10:30 a.m. Find us at 9045 SW County is excited to welcome Network Our Worship Service opens America 60th Ave. in Ocala. Our worship the Ball Brothers in concert with special music by our Wor- Beth Sholom of Citrus County The Mind and Motion Parkin- style is full of love, joy and son’s Support Network meets ship Choir. Our praise time will join 10s of thousands of See HAPPENINGS/Page A15 www.smcitizen.com Friday, February 22, 2019 ~ A13 A14 ~ Friday, February 22, 2019 www.smcitizen.com

Oak Run Oak Run's very fine Fine Arts Show Laura Smith is showing Sunday

ear reader, nature! I tertain us and those who publicity they give us every mean, outdoors, sky, “don’t do” are the ones doing week. Farewell David, and D trees, … the awe- the criticism. Please people, happy retirement! Now on someness of nature was the be thankful for this great com- with the new??? 100-plus robins that spent two munity and all those who do so I hope to see you at the Cab- days in our yards this past much for us. New residents, aret, Art Show and Pancakes. week. you are always welcome to get We celebrate this famous pres- A few weeks ago, I men- involved, say “Yes, I want to ident’s day and one of his tioned a bear in our backyard help.” quotes, “I hope I shall possess and now robins flitting around Ladies, the Renaissance firmness and virtue enough to all day. The second day when I Women Club is having an in- maintain what I consider the went out early in the morning teresting guest speaker on most enviable of all titles, the to get the paper, they were still technology Sunday. It would character of an honest man.” here and flew past my face as I be a good way to visit these la- George Washington. Wishing stepped out of the door. dies and see if you are inter- you all peace, a good week. Wow! I loved the visit of ested in joining. Stop by the Laura those wonderful robins. By the Art Show at Palm Grove on Free Presentation on Crime, way, the crows did not show your way to attend the Renais- The five stars of the PACOR play, "The Dixie Swim Club," are Bil- Safety and Identity Theft up, and that was a real pres- sance Women. lie Stevens, left, Avis Ward, Marci Hutto, Marlena Yaich, Sharon Awareness ent. Cabaret show is Saturday Opdyke. The Oak Run Shooting I have often mentioned the night. Tickets are still avail- Sports Club is sponsoring a 45 need for volunteers at various able at the Pancake Breakfast volunteers who make this just got used to the editor of to 60-minute presentation con- events. It was brought to my at- or call Della. She works at the breakfast ($2.50 each) possible the Citizen, David Davis and cerning personal safety, iden- tention that it seems some Pancake Breakfast. Don’t for- monthly and my favorite chefs now he is leaving us. I thank folks are working hard to en- get to say “thank you” to those in the kitchen. Thank you! I him and the Citizen for the See OAK/Page A24 www.smcitizen.com Friday, February 22, 2019 ~ A15

Dollywood, Silver Dollar City, and Carn- heart of Ocala National Forest among at 3 p.m., Sunday, April 7, at Dunnellon egie Hall as well as churches, fairs, and 45,000 needy and often homeless resi- Presbyterian Church, 20641 Chestnut HAPPENINGS on television. The Dixie Echoes have dents. His goal is to break the chain of St., Dunnellon; 7 p.m., Friday, April 12, Continued from Page A12 appeared on such programs as TBN, poverty for 6,500 children in our very at Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE Ninth St., INSP and most notably remembered for own backyard. With the assistance of Ocala; and 3 p.m., Sunday, April 14, at Friday evening, March 8. With more regular appearances on the nationally volunteers, approximately 400 children Countryside Presbyterian Church, 7768 than 100 million video views; singers syndicated television show, “The Gospel enjoy summer camp Sozo where they SW State Road 200, Ocala. Music in- and viral sensations, the Ball Brothers Singing Jubilee,” which aired in the late swim, canoe, play games and eat three cludes selections of spirituals, Broad- are the next big thing in Christian 1960s and ’70s. daily meals. Another child focused sup- way, cool jazz, Revolutionary War music, Music. Whether you know them from port is Turning Point Mentor Centers, country, American opera and folk. their video, “It’s About the Cross” or Friday, March 8 which provides tutoring. The Central Florida Master Choir, have seen them featured on Facebook Dinner reservations are $20. Learn under the direction of Harold W. Mc- Watch’s fastest growing show “Legend- SW 200 Corridor Quilter about the incredible life of pastor David Swain, is an auditioned, volunteer cho- ary Vocals,” the Ball Brothers continue "SW 200 Corridor Quilter" will meet Hauck and volunteer opportunities. rus comprised of singers from the their calling with more than 150 live March 8 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. We meet Reservations are accepted up to March Central Florida area of Marion, Citrus, shows a year, highlighted by a No. 1 song at the Marion County Sheriff's South- 7. Call Charlene Earl at 352-624-2175 or Alachua and Sumter Counties. Its pur- on the iTunes Christian Chart, and a re- west District Office at 9048 SW SR 200. Pam Ruder at 513-315-1663 for further pose is to promote cultural awareness cent featured article in Sports We will have a Scrappy Quilt Demo and information. GFWC is dedicated to liv- and enjoyment of serious music per- Illustrated. Show N Tell. Guest are welcome. Bring ing the volunteer spirit. formed at a high artistic level. For more The concert begins at 6:30 p.m.; doors a lunch, a quilt for Show N Tell and information, please visit http://cfmaster- open at 5:30 p.m. There are no tickets quilt project to work on. For more infor- Sunday, March 12 choir.com. required and no admission is charged. A mation, please call 352-873-4196. love offering will be received for the Weaver Believer Concert Criminal Justic & Prison group. Weaver Believer concert at 2 p.m., Reform Christ’s Church of Marion County is Saturday, March 9 Sunday, March 17, at First Christian located at 6768 SW 80th Street in Ocala Church, at 1908 E Fort King Street. For Criminal Justice & Prison Reform off State Road 200. For more informa- Ocala 200 Lions Club Flea more information, please call Linda Lobby Day, March 13 and March 14 for tion or directions contact the church of- Market Schultz at 352-867-7202. The concert is No Place For a Child Coalition Lobby fice at 352-861-6182 or visit our website free. A love offering will be accepted. Day, “because no child should be in an at www.ccomc.org. The Ocala 200 Lions Club will have a adult prison or jail.” flea market Saturday, March 9, from 8 Master Choir Join with the Southern Poverty Law Dixie Echoes concert a.m. to 1 p.m. at Bank of the Ozarks at The Central Florida Master Choir Center, ACLU Florida, Florida Cares The Dixie Echoes will end the Winter 8375 SW Hwy 200, Ocala. Rain date is presents “American Roots” featuring Concert Gospel Music Series at College Saturday, March 16. There will be a vari- “The World Beloved: A Bluegrass Mass” See LIONS/Page A18 Road Baptist church on March 8. Doors ety of vendors on hand as well with food open at 6:30 p.m. and the concert begins and drink available for sale by the Dun- at 7 p.m. A $10 donation will be ac- nellon Lions Club. Join us for this fund- cepted at the door. College Road Baptist raising event. As always, all proceeds Church is located at 5010 SW College generated by the Lions Clubs are used Road in Ocala, 34474, 1.7 miles west of for community projects throughout the I-75. year. For more information, please call The Dixie Echoes have been deliver- 352-861-2730. ing the gospel message in song across America through their spiritually uplift- Sunday, March 10 ing music ministry for over 50 years. Considered to be one of the pioneer gos- Dunnellon Concert Singers pel groups, the Dixie Echoes have re- The Dunnellon Concert Singers re- turned to their roots singing around two turn to Countryside Presbyterian microphones with just a piano. Re- Church, 7768 SW Highway 200, at 3 p.m. spected among their peers and industry Sunday, March 10, for their seventh ap- leaders alike, the Dixie Echoes are rec- pearance. This popular local troupe cel- ognized as one of the premier groups in ebrates “songs from the big band era.” gospel music. Vocalists Mary Ellen Craver, Mary Ma- Since the Dixie Echoes formed in honey, and Bill Thomas, accompanied 1960, they have released nearly 70 al- by pianist Bob Cubbage, present a de- bums and have had numerous top ten lightful walk down the musical memory singles. They have been honored with lane with familiar favorite songs from six members inducted into the Southern the ‘30s and ‘40s. Admission is free with Gospel Music Association Hall of Fame: donations gratefully accepted. Call 419- J.G. Whitfield (1997), Dale Shelnut 8796 for more information. (2001), Jack Toney (2005), Billy Todd (2009), Tim Riley (2013), and Randy Tuesday, March 12 Shelnut (2017). The Dixie Echoes have performed Pastor David Hauck throughout the United States, Mexico, Pastor David Hauck will speak March and Canada at well-known venues such 12 to the GFWC Greater Ocala Woman’s as the National Quartet Convention, Club at 6 p.m. March 12 at Ocala Golf Gospel Jubilee Cruise, the Brumley Club, 3130 East Silver Springs Blvd. Sing, Memphis Quartet Show, Pastor Hauck works and lives in the A16 ~ Friday, February 22, 2019 www.smcitizen.com

Marion Landing New Pretenders to perform Diane Bress Sunday; Senior Games registration pend an afternoon PHOTO BY Landing participate. To register for Sunshine fundraiser with “The New Pre- LEON MEARS owners or the Games, fill out the entry S tenders,” an all-senior, authorized form enclosed in your packet The next Sunshine fund- lip-sync group from On Top of tenants. and return it, with your entry raiser will be the popular the World, who will perform There are fee of $10 per participant, at Games Party to be held on their show “That’s Entertain- Marion Land- 40 events in the Feb. 26 Tuesday morning Wednesday, Mar. 13, in the ment” in the Lifestyle Center ing’s own opera which you Social or to the Activities Of- Lifestyle Center. Tickets are $5 on Sunday, Feb. 24, from 3 to star, Lina Valle- may partici- fice. You may sign up for as each (cash only, please) and 4:45 p.m. “The New Pretend- jo, performed pate; and of many or as few events as you are on sale at Tuesday morn- ers” have been performing for at the Annual the 40 wish. Your registration form ing Socials and in the Activi- more than 20 years, and this Marion Landing events, 26 and payment must be re- ties Office until March 8. Play show includes an 11-piece Patrol Dinner are eligible ceived by noon on Mar. 1, will include cards or games, band with 18 singers perform- Feb. 10. for the cov- which is when our T-shirt such as Hand and Foot, Mah ing songs covering all types of eted Ed order must be placed. The Jongg and Bunko, to name a music.. Tickets to this show Morgan Fit- wearing of your 2019 Senior few; and groups choose what are $5 each and are on sale ness Award, Games T-shirt is your admit- game they will play when they today in the Activities Office which are tance to the Breakfast of purchase their tickets. One or at the door. Be sure to get a awarded at Champions which will be person from your group may ticket to this great show, and the Break- held on Saturday, Apr. 27. purchase tickets for the entire get ready to laugh, tap your fast of Don’t miss out on the fun, table. The doors will open at feet and have a great time. Champions. friendly competition and ca- 11:30 a.m. and lunch will be Register for Senior Games registration packet which you From tennis and shuffle- maraderie of the Senior served at noon. After lunch, in February received in your February board to Scrabble and Games. Fill out and submit there will be the 50/50 drawing By now you should have re- Communicator. The Senior Bridge, there’s sure to be your registration forms today, viewed your Senior Games Games are open to all Marion something in which you can and let the games begin! See ST. PATTY/Page A19 www.smcitizen.com Friday, February 22, 2019 ~ A17 Cherrywood Tennis Golden Ocala seeks players for 7th Annual Marion Tennis Masters Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Golden Ocala is a 1,200-plus-acre Club is calling on members and the destination of championship golf and public to register for its Seventh An- tennis, a world-class equestrian center, nual Marion Tennis Masters, running luxury living and much more packaged from Wednesday, Feb. 27, through Sun- into a one-of-a-kind gated community day, March 3. This USTA-inspired and located among the rolling hills of event includes men’s, women’s and North Central Florida, otherwise mixed doubles with divisions 6.0, 7.0 known as Horse Country. and 8.0, as well as open and mixed di- With a variety of elite memberships visions. and exclusive benefits, Golden Ocala is Registration closes Saturday, Feb. 23, known as a premier venue for all occa- at noon. Those interested in participat- sions. It is located at 4090 NW 84th ing are required to report their basic Court in Ocala. Call (352) 629-6229. On- contact information, which days and line at GoldenOcala.com. times that they are available to play, their desired division and their USTA rating to the Golden Ocala Tennis Pro “Every time you win, Shop, 2800 NW 80th Terrace, either in person or via phone or 352-402-4351. it diminishes the fear Sponsored by Porsche of Ocala, the a little bit. You never Marion Tennis Masters is $60 per player, including tournament play and really cancel the fear PHOTO BY STEVE CRUMLEY two additional events, breakfast, lunch, of losing; you keep Cherrywood Tennis Club members in the photo are Cletus Joseph, left, Tony drinks, door prizes and trophies. Bic, Skip Moccia, Fran, Mullen, Dave Beauchamp and Dale Crowley. Mem- For more information, call 352-402- challenging it.” bers meet at 9 a.m. every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. New members 4351 or email Director of Tennis, Thi- are always welcome. roshan “T” Chetty at t.chetty@ — Arthur Ashe goldenocala.com. A18 ~ Friday, February 22, 2019 www.smcitizen.com

sale for residents on Wednes- Marion Landing Annual Dunnellon Presbyterian Tuesday. Every month a doctor day Feb 20, 26 and March 6. Church, 20641 Chestnut St., or other licensed medical pro- LIONS These tickets will be sold at Community Yard Sale Dunnellon; 7 p.m., Friday, April fessional speaks to anyone else Continued from Page A15 Bingo 4:30 untill Saturday, March 16, from 8 12, at Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE who is interested. 5:30 pm. For nonresidents, a.m. to noon, Lifestyle Center Ninth St., Ocala; and 3 p.m., The nonprofit group’s goal is Charity, and Florida Cam- please call 352-857-8765 or 352- parking lot on SW 65th Avenue Sunday, April 14, at Country- to bring education and aware- paign for Criminal Justice Re- 566-6004 for tickets. The dance Road , just off SR 200 across side Presbyterian Church, 7768 ness to husbands, wives or care- form for a rally on the Historic is at the Circle Square Cultural from Queen of Peace church. SW State Road 200, Ocala. givers the impor-tance of early Front Steps for a press confer- Center on March 15. Free and open to the public. No Music includes selections of detection, treatment options ence with the Capitol Press This is going to be a “fun fill” early birds, please. Rain date: spirituals, Broadway, cool jazz, and treat-ment concerns such Corps., and meetings with legis- event with entertainment by Sat., Mar. 30. Revolutionary War music, as side effects and life after latures. What we want: driver Charlie De, Ken Brady and country, American opera and cancer. For more information, licenses only suspended for Stan Prinston, great food by Thursday, March 21 folk. please call Steve Austin at driving offenses; re-entry and Southern Pig & Cattle Co, serv- The Central Florida Master 352-812-0406. support for Floridians transi- ing pulled pork, chicken, barbe- Genealogical Society Choir, under the direction of tioning back into society; bail cue beans, coleslaw, macaroni The Marion County Genea- Harold W. McSwain, is an audi- Kabbalat Shabbat reform ending cash bail for and cheese, tea and water. Cost logical Society will meet at 2 tioned, volunteer chorus com- Holy Hour-Happy Hour Tra- misdemeanors; reducing the is $35 per person or reserve a p.m., Thursday, March 21, at the prised of singers from the ditional Edition is the first Fri- cap on gain-time from 85 per- table for 10 for $300. The doors Marion County Public Library Central Florida area of Marion, day of every month at 7 p.m. cent to at least 65 percent. will open at 5 p.m., dinner 5:30 at 2720 E. Silver Springs Blvd. Citrus, Alachua and Sumter Kabbalat Shabbat is followed Also, mandatory minimum p.m. and the dance 7 p.m. The March program will follow Counties. Its purpose is to pro- by a delicious traditional sentencing reform; keep pris- Lots of Baskets will be there a brief business meeting. For mote cultural awareness and themed buffet and cocktails in- oners within 125 miles of their for raffling off as well as a 50/50. more information, contact Joel enjoyment of serious music cluding challah, geffilte fish, communities; and volun- There will be a cash bar. Funds Swanson at 352-897-0840, email performed at a high artistic salads, chicken matzah ball teer-based prisoner guardian from this event will go to bene- [email protected] or level. For more information, soup and brisket. RSVP at www. board. fit children, veterans in Marion visit www.mcgsocala.org) on the please visit http://cfmasterchoir. ourchabad. org/happyhour. RSVP or for more informa- County as well as entities sup- internet. com. Shabbat @ Chabad: every tion, please email info.Flori- ported by OTOW Lions. Get Shabbat at 10 a.m. followed by a [email protected] tickets early. Dress to impress. Sunday, April 7 Ongoing delicious kiddish-lunch.Torah Walk down our Red Carpet. We & Tea: study the weekly Torah Friday, March 15 are members of the Non Profit CF Master Choir Prostate Cancer portion Wednesday from 7 – 8 Business Council of Marion The Central Florida Master Support p.m. OTOW Lions Dinner County. Where there is a Need Choir presents “American The Prostate Cancer Support For more information, please There is a Lion. Dance Roots” featuring “The World Group meets each month at 5 contact Rabbi Yossi Hecht by Beloved: A Bluegrass Mass” at calling 352-330-4466 on the Tickets for the OTOW Lions p.m. in the West Marion West Saturday, March 16 3 p.m., Sunday, April 7, at Dinner Dance will be going on Marion Hospi-tal on the fourth See ESL/Page A19 www.smcitizen.com Friday, February 22, 2019 ~ A19

mended, every effort will At that time, you will pay Landing Patrol Dinner dents. Patrol meets in Evelyn Olsen wanted be made to place individ- your fee (cash only), was held on Sunday, Feb. the Lifestyle Center on to let everyone know ST. PATTY ual registrants with oth- choose your spot and get 10, in the Lifestyle Cen- the second Tuesday of that because of the large Continued from Page A16 ers. In addition, anyone your Yard Sale instruc- ter, and 84 members of each month, right after inventory of jigsaw puz- who wishes to come tions. Make sure to Patrol attended a lovely the Tuesday morning So- zles, they have been re- and then the games down just for lunch is choose your spot care- dinner catered by Sam- cial. There are also up- located to a larger closet begin. Tickets are lim- more than welcome. You fully, as there will be no my’s. Gen Barretta and dates from Search, in the Lifestyle Center to ited to six per household; can support Sunshine swapping spots once they her group of volunteers Lock-up, CERT and the the left of the dance and although full-table and have an afternoon of are assigned. And every- made the arrangements Scheduling Captains. floor. If you’re looking registration is recom- fun; but get your tickets one should mark their for the dinner, which was “We are in need of more for something to do in early, as seating is lim- calendars for March 16 meant to thank Patrol residents to join Patrol your spare time, hun- ited. for the Yard Sale from 8 members for volunteer- in order to keep our dreds of puzzles are to noon; the rain date is ing for this vital commu- shifts staffed, especially available for you to take ESL Annual Yard Sale Saturday, March 30. nity service. during the summer home, assemble and Continued from Page A18 You should already be St. Patty’s Day Dinner Entertainment was pro- months,” said Dot Tone- then return; donations cleaning out your draw- Come celebrate St. Pat- vided by our own Lina ske, one of Patrol’s of puzzles are also wel- ers and cupboards and rick’s Day with a tradi- Vallejo and a “hilarious” scheduling captains. come. internet at www. OurCh- straightening up the ga- tional holiday dinner skit by Charlie Mock, “Please come and see us abad.org. ———n——— rage because our annual prepared by Ken Charles Fran and Frank Szutar. at one of the Tuesday ESL Program Yard Sale is coming up of Soup Day fame. Enjoy “All in all, a terrific eve- morning Socials, or call Diane Bress is Marion soon. There is a change a meal of corned beef ning,” said Patrol Presi- us for more informa- Landing’s Activities Di- Free English as a Sec- in the original advertised and cabbage, potatoes, dent Rich Toneske. The tion.” rector and an employee ond Language classes are date. The Yard Sale will carrots, salad, cake and Marion Landing Patrol is of Leland Management, held weekly at College be held in the Lifestyle beverage all for an in- a 130-member group of Puzzles relocated Inc. Road Baptist Church, Center parking lot on credible $8 ticket price. volunteers who donate 5010 SW College Road at Saturday, Mar. 16, from 8 The event is on Sunday, their time by “taking a 6 p.m. every Wednesday a.m. to noon, and it is Mar. 17, from 4 to 6 p.m. shift” to patrol the com- through May. Child care is open to the public. Park- Tickets are on sale at munity every night. “A belief which leaves no free. Students practice ing spot reservations will Tuesday morning Socials Under the leadership of their English speaking place for doubt is not a belief; be “sold” to Marion and in the Activities Of- Rich Toneske, Patrol is skills in an informal, Landing residents for $5 fice. an integral part of com- it is a superstition.” friendly environment. each on Thursday, Mar. 7, Patrol appreciation munity life, helping to Contact ESL irector Janet between 9 and 10:30 a.m. dinner ensure the safety and — José Bergamín Smith at 352-854-6981for in the Lifestyle Center. The annual Marion well-being of fellow resi- more information. A20 ~ Friday, February 22, 2019 www.smcitizen.com Indian dance troupe performs Sunday By Sharon most popular of India’s eight dance and formed Rudram Anderson religious deities. Dance Company, which is a For the Chronicle The dance troupe is under nonprofit.” the tutelage of Bikkasani, The school was recently rea residents of all who currently resides in awarded grants from the Hill- ages are invited to Tampa but taught classical In- sborough Arts Council for A experience an eve- dian dance for 12 years in Le- 2019-20 to bring live musi- ning of authentic, classical canto when she lived in cians from India to perform Indian music and dance when Citrus County with her hus- along with her dance troupe Tara Bikkasani and her band, a gastroenterologist, June 16 in the University of Rudram Dance Company and after marrying and moving South Florida theater, she musicians from the Shruti here from India. said. Foundation come together for “We 18 members of the For more information, dual performances guaran- team will be dancing with check out Bikkasani’s Face- teed to make a lasting beautiful soulful music with book page at Tara Priyadarsh- impression. bright vibrant costumes,” said ini Bikkasani. The event will be from 4:30- Bikkasani. She began study- Tickets for the Feb. 24 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 24, at ing classical Indian dance as event cost $12 for students the Charles R. Dassance Fine a child in Bangalore, India, ages 12 and younger with ID, Arts Center at the College of where, her love for dance and $25 for adults. Front row Central Florida, at 3001 S.W. blossomed. seats are available for $50. College Road, in Ocala. “After a few years my pas- Tickets can be reserved For the first half of the con- sion took me to Chennai, through Bikkasani directly by cert, North Indian instrumen- India, about 250 miles away calling 352-697-0452 or email- talists Arnab Chakrabarty, on from home, where I stayed ing [email protected]. the fretless Indian string in- with my guru, Mrs.Krish- Advance tickets can also be strument called a sarod, and naveni Lakshmanan, for purchased online at www. Shankhachur Lahiri on In- nearly nine years,” she said. eventbrite.com/e/indi- dian drums, or tabla, will join “My passion for this Indian an-dance-and-instrumen- forces to mesmerize their au- dance called Bharatanatyam tal-music-event-tick- dience with their unique grew boundless,” she said. ets-55669432772. Unless sold blend of sounds. “After my marriage to Dr.Bik- out, tickets can also be pur- The second half of the kasani, I moved to Florida chased at the door the eve- event will feature a perfor- and continued to teach and ning of the event. mance of classical Indian perform.” nnn dance in the Bharatanatyam The Bikkasanis and their style, titled “Padma” — Vi- two sons moved from Lecanto The dance troupe is under sions of Krishna, in which to Tampa 10 years ago where, the tutelage of Bikkasani, Bikkasani and 17 of her color- she said, “I continued my pas- who currently resides in Tam- fully attired students will con- sionate mission to teach and pa but taught classical Indian vey the stories of Krishna, the impart this beautiful classical dance for 12 years in Lecanto. www.smcitizen.com Friday, February 22, 2019 ~ A21 Weather stalls softball but play goes on

Cold and wet winter weather in January and early February ham- pered play for On Top of the World’s men’s softball league. But hardy players from OTOW and neighboring communities such as Stone Creek, Oak Run and oth- ers have continued to compete Monday and Wednesday mornings as often as the weather cooperates. League action shows the team sponsored by Dr. Dunn and man- aged by Paul Gatto, running away from opponents. Ron Hamel’s Pulse Center team is in second place with the Swinson Chiroprac- tic squad (Larry Burke) Hilton Auto (Jimmy Russo) and Pearson Nissan (Jeff Thomas) close behind. The Cebert Wealth team (Ed Basan) is gaining but brings up the rear. And there’s a lot of season left to catch up. On Feb. 13, players gathered at the OTOW Pavilion adjacent to the softball field for a memorial for a former league member, Dennis Tri- olo, who recently died. OTOW’s Don Huston fires a ball back into the infield during a league game. A22 ~ Friday, February 22, 2019 www.smcitizen.com www.smcitizen.com Friday, February 22, 2019 ~ A23 Floral City Strawberry Festival turns 37 You know spring is just day to make your own delec- a throwback to earlier eras rett Manning and Eric 300 art and craft vendors, around the corner when the table treats. of country music when Tremante performing as imbibing in a cold beer or 32nd Annual Floral City This year, the Floral City trendsetters like Bessie “Taking Anderson”, and the glass of wine at the beer gar- Strawberry Festival comes to Strawberry Festival returns Smith, June Carter, Loretta fun and quirky Barefoot Bob den near the main stage, en- town! Get ready to come out to some of its Americana Lynn and Hank Williams and the Hope, along with joying the gastronomic to one of Citrus County’s roots with home-crafted made history. A spectacular Citrus County’s popular DJ pleasures offered by the prettiest parks on March 2 sounds from a roster of tra- 2014 performance at a Ten- John Diorio. many food vendors, or enjoy- and 3 for fun (and strawber- ditional-style musicians. But nessee flea market skyrock- And what could be more ing laughs and smiles with ries), food (and strawber- just because they have tradi- eted her career to become a Americana than pie-eating the young ones as they “play ries), entertainment (and tional influences doesn’t worldwide phenomenon contests and princess pag- themselves silly” in the kids’ strawberries), Princess Pag- mean they aren’t exciting! when a video of her stage eants? Ooh and ahh on Sat- area. eants and Pie-Eating Con- The Floral City Strawberry show went viral on YouTube. urday morning as poised Floral City Strawberry tests (and strawberries), arts, Festival is honored to intro- Since her breakout at just young ladies take the stage Festival hours are 9 a.m. to 5 crafts and more (and straw- duce a new talent to our fes- nine years old, Emi has gar- in their favorite strawber- p.m. on Saturday, and 9 a.m. berries), and kids’ activities tival audiences! Emi nered more than 14 Million ry-themed attire for a to 4 p.m. on Sunday. En- galore (and strawberries)! Sunshine is making her Cit- YouTube views and a half chance to earn a crown and trance fee is $5.00 for guests Oh, and did we mention rus County public debut at million Facebook followers. become the next Little Miss 12 and older. Park free at there will be STRAWBER- the festival on Saturday af- Be sure to catch her now at and Miss Strawberry Prin- the Citrus County Audito- RIES?? Luscious strawberry ternoon. This young lady – the Floral City Strawberry cesses. Or maybe getting rium and take a shuttle to shortcake prepared by the only 14 years old – hails from Festival, because who knows messy is more your style? the Festival location. Floral Citrus County Agricultural East Tennessee and has cap- when we will be able to Then sign up to compete in Park is located at 9530 S. Alliance and the Cattlemen’s tured the nation’s attention bring this destined-to-be-fa- the strawberry pie-eating Parkside Ave., Floral City, Association will be available and enchanted their hearts mous young lady back for an contests for a chance to win FL 34426 for your noshing pleasure, with her musical wizardry. encore? some cold, hard cash! Com- For complete information along with flats and half-flats Steeped in Appalachian Also appearing during the petitions will be held both on the Floral City Straw- of whole fresh berries grown music, Emi is a true vocal festival will be Southern Ex- Saturday and Sunday. berry Festival, visit www. locally by Ferris Farms that stylist. Influenced by legends press Bluegrass Band, Citrus Round your festival adven- GoStrawberryFest.com. On you can take home with you (Loretta Lynn/Tanya Tucker/ County-favorite Jeff Jarrett, tures out by strolling the Facebook, search for “Floral as a sweet souvenir of your The Louvin Brothers), she is Citrus County educators Gar- park and browsing close to City Strawberry Festival.” A24 ~ Friday, February 22, 2019 www.smcitizen.com

ment to make a driver if you need assistance. they are set up as night- Mary Ann Hollars. day, Feb. 25, at the Palm reservation. Many thanks Also, bring $11 cash for club style seating with ta- Our tables are filled Grove from 10:30 to 11:30 OAK go to Joan O’Brien who the March Indoor Picnic. bles of 8-10 in the with our paintings and a.m. If you can’t make a Continued from Page A14 held this position for sev- Annual Indoor Picnic middle of the room. drawings in addition to ticket sale, contact Patty eral years and did an of chicken with all the There is no dance floor displays and sales by our at 352-237-7145 for din- tity theft, fraud, scams outstanding job. fixings, homemade for this week’s show as fabulous instructors. ner tickets and Billie at and crime prevention baked beans and dessert, the entertainment will be There will also be a “Sin- 352-237-1104 for the from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m., Bocce Club will be at 2 p.m., Sunday, a gle Exhibit Table” of the other performances. Wednesday, Feb. 27, at The Oak Run Bocce March 31, at our meet- combination of com- member’s favorite art- Here are a few more The Orchid Club. club will hold their end ing. Please give $11 cash edy, music and nostalgia. work. behind the scenes folks. Metro Crime Preven- of season tournament for to Jessica by March 15. The headliner, Debby We’ve planned another Jodi Rushing is produc- tion of Florida is a non- the top 32 league players You may bring this pay- Bacon, will perform hit great show, just for you! tion coordinator. She profit organization at 9 a.m., Friday, March ment in advance to our musicals from the sees to it that all the nec- founded by retired law 22. The rain date is Sat- monthly meetings or call stage and screen. Tickets Royal Oaks Lady essary behind the scenes enforcement personnel urday, March 23. This Jessica at 873-4551 for ar- are $16 per person and Niners jobs are filled, keeps on year, coffee and dough- will be available at the top of any open issues that, for 25 years, has rangements. This is a Thursday, Feb. 14, the nuts will be provided by Feb. 23 Pancake Break- that need resolving, and been reaching out to citi- special afternoon not to Lady Niners celebrated David Nettles of Edward fast or by calling Della makes sure all groups zens in our community to be missed. Plan to bring Valentine’s Day with a Jones Investments. Blanchard at 352-237- have the proper commu- empower them with re- your beverage to the pic- 3-3-3 scramble and lun- Also, the annual bocce 6474. nications and coordina- sources and information nic. cheon. The members’ dinner and dance will be Mark your calendars tion of effort. that will reduce their Lunch at ROGC: 11:30 room and the dining ta- held 5 to 9 p.m., Sunday, for ticket sale dates for When you come to our risk of becoming a victim a.m., Thursday, Feb. 28. bles were beautifully April 7, in the Orchid the April 13 Cabaret. show you receive a play- of crime. Call Geraldine at 585- decorated. Everyone Club. Catering will be by This show will feature bill. There are two Each person will re- 737-8711 or Annmarie at looked festive and had a Bob Evans with a choice the top-rated award-win- groups of people who ceive a Help Program 237-9838. great time. The 3-3-3 between turkey/stuffing ning Elvis Tribute show work on that. First, the card and a Health Emer- Dinner at ROGC: 5 scramble is a team game or pot roast with apple by Cote Deonath. This is ad sellers are those who gency Life Profile at the p.m., first Wednesday of where three holes are pie or coconut cream pie sure to be a high demand call on businesses and end of the presentation. every month. Call Pat G. played as a scramble, for dessert; choices must event. Tickets are $16 various organizations to Topics include safe- at 854-7549 or Gerry at three holes are played as be made at the time of and can be purchased at encourage them to ad- keeping and appropriate 873-6868. two best balls and three ticket purchase. See the March 9 Donut Drop vertise with us. For this sharing of medical infor- Monthly Luncheons: holes are played as three team captains for tickets. In, the March 23 Pancake show that group in- mation; current crime Call Gloria at 570-606- best balls. The winning The cost is $10 per per- Breakfast and the April cludes Kit Leavitt, Bruce statistics; fraud, scams 7107. team was Elsa Berbig, son. 13 Donut Drop In. Della MacDuffee, Charlie and identity theft pre- Movies: Call Peg at 274- Mary Kayy Frandsen and Blanchard is also enter- Takesian, Jodi Rushing, vention; and nonlethal 9640 for details. Rae Stover. Second place Royal Oaks tainment chairperson for Patricia Callahan, Jim defense weapons. Membership: Call Pa- went to the team of Bette this event. Waddell, Avis Ward, No sign-ups are re- Women’s 18 Hole tricia at 445-7428. Johnson, Shirley Krug Also, at tomorrow’s Marci Hutto, Marlena quired. For more infor- We are open to all la- and Cindy Kocher. Mary Golf League Pancake Breakfast, you Yaich, Carrie Ball and mation or questions dies of Oak Run. Never Kay Frandsen won the Our 2019 Valentine can purchase tickets for Linda Noel. concerning the presenta- any dues; new members closest to the pin contest Tournament was a huge the Ambassador March Jim Waddell pulls ev- tion, contact Barry McCo- are always welcome! on hole three. Elsa Ber- success thanks to Patty 16 Irish Pub Dance at the erything together into a nnell at 630-217-2002. big won the closest to the Dougherty and her com- Palm Grove from 7-11. book to send the pub- Celebrity Edge pin contest on hole six. Karaoke mittee of hard work- Entertainment will be lisher. Please be sure to Celebrity continues to Janet Tully made a ers. The rain managed to provided by Magic Mo- mention to the advertis- Karaoke is the first up the ante. Now, if you chip-in on hole four and stay away, and golf was ments by Joseph Gi- ers that you saw their ad Thursday of the month at book an ocean view, bal- Roseann Lavacca made a followed by a lovely din- anonti. Tickets are $10 in our playbill. This en- 6:30 p.m. in the Island cony or suite category by chip-in on hole two. ner and dancing. Win- and will also be available courages them to con- Club. You don’t want to March 6, you can get all All Oak Run ladies are ners were: Diamonds at the March 9 Donut miss this fun evening four perks: the Beverage welcome to play with us tinue advertising with Flight, first (tie), Galla Drop In. with hosts Mark and Package upgraded to on Mondays. There is a us. and Hessel; second (tie), If you have an interest Linda. Why not come out “Premium;” prepaid signup sheet in the We are already looking Conner and Bloss. in helping out with Am- on March 7 for a good tips; $150 per person on- locker room with tee ahead to our fall produc- Hearts Flight: first, bassador events, please time. All you need to board credit; and unlim- time and contact infor- tion. Anyone interested Blanchard; second, come to our workshop bring is a smile, some ited Wi-Fi. There is no mation. in being involved, espe- drinks or snacks. Contact Dougherty; third (tie), cruise better to use the from 9 to 10 a.m., March cially as an assistant di- them for more informa- Lavacca and Timmer- perks on than the nine- 14 in the Card Room. The PACOR rector or music director, meyer/Carte. Ambassador entertain- please contact president tion at 603-702-0765. night Southern Carib- Showtime is quickly Cupid’s Flight: first, ment committee plans Shellie Poissant. Our Hope to see you there. bean cruise on approaching. Get your Scrivens/Lefabvre; sec- events throughout the next general meeting is Laura Celebrity’s new ship the tickets now. ond, Terry; third (tie), year for Oak Run resi- 7 p.m., Monday, March Edge, Nov. 15-19, hosted Tickets for "The Dixie Feeman and Tennant. dents and their guests. 11, in the Palm Grove. Reach Out by Oak Run residents Swim Club" by Jones, An important message Closest to Pins: Bob Ju- Bob and Regine Lam- hasz and Lisa Juhasz. ACOR Fine Arts Hope and Wooten, are Library from Reach Out, Neigh- mon. For more informa- $10 for reserved seats bors Helping Neighbors. Renaissance tion, give Bob a call at Show and $8 for general admis- The monthly book sale Please note that effective 237-8720. Don’t forget to make sion. The tickets are for is Saturday, March 9, March 1, the contact per- Women plans to come to the the 7 p.m., Friday, 7 p.m.; from 8-9:30 a.m. in the son for scheduling trans- Meeting: Sunday, Feb. Ambassadors Palm Grove facility this Saturday, 3 p.m.; and 3 Orchid Club. Hardback portation to medical, 24, at 2 p.m. in the Is- There is still time to Sunday, Feb. 24, to see p.m. Sunday shows books and DVDs are dental or eye appoint- land Club; 50/50. Guest purchase tickets for Sat- the 2019 Art Club of Oak March 22, 23 and 24. The priced two for $1; paper- ments will be Mary Gar- Speaker on Technology: urday’s Cabaret Show. Run Fine Arts Show from dinner theater perfor- backs are 10 cents repy at 352-322-7377. smartphones, tab- For those not familiar 1to 4 p.m. All Oak Run mance is Thursday, each. Stop by the Donut Please allow at least 72 lets. Bring your technol- with residents and their March 21. The ticket Drop In and enjoy coffee hours before the appoint- ogy devices for the Q & A Ambassador Cabarets, guests are welcome. Be- price is $27, which in- and a doughnut. sides free admission and cludes dinner and the Travel light refreshments, help show. The dinner starts choose the “Viewer’s at 5:30 p.m. and the show We have completed Choice” award, watch begins at 7 p.m. plans for our annual the silent auction bids The remaining ticket Gamblers Getaway so pile up and possibly take sale dates in February mark this on your calen- home an original water- are Saturday, Feb. 23, in dar. This year it is a two- color painting entitled the Orchid Club from 8 to night trip Aug. 7-9. “Delicate Orchids” by 10 a.m. during the Pan- past ACOR president cake Breakfast; and Mon- See TRAVEL/Page A25 www.smcitizen.com Friday, February 22, 2019 ~ A25

variations of this game to will be announced. the chorus, the guys learn with more to come. will take the stage in a Ocala Civic Theatre's "Get TRAVEL Newcomers are always Democratic Club of song and the gals will Continued from Page A24 welcome and lessons are Oak Run also. There will be a available. Since up to Our February social few solos dispersed Up and Go" drawing tickets five can play using one The bus will depart get together was a great throughout. A flute and set, you need not own Aug. 7 for the Fort Myers success. Over 40 demo- violin will make an ap- one; however, if you do are on sale now area, stopping at the cratic minded individu- pearance along with have a Mah Jongg set, Seminole Hardrock Im- als from our community some other surprises. Tickets are on sale now for Ocala Civic Theatre’s mokalee before check- please bring it. No card joined our social gath- Troubadour members popular annual “Get Up and Go” drawing! For a do- ing in at The Hyatt or money is needed to ering for snacks and nation of only $5, you can have a chance to win one Place Hotel. The next play. While we all enjoy also have tickets or can desserts, good conver- of eight terrific prizes, including a Viking River bus stop is the Murder the game, the social di- get tickets for you if you sation, meeting new Cruise for two, restaurant and shopping packages, a Mystery Dinner Train mension is just as im- can’t make it for the neighbors and general Busch Gardens weekend, and Ocala Civic Theatre for great food and an portant, so the ticket dates. There are camaraderie. Everyone 2019-2020 season tickets. entertaining show. atmosphere is always times, 8 to 10:30 a.m., is welcome to join our This year’s prize packages are: First Prize, Viking The next day, enjoy friendly and relaxed. March 9, 23, and 30 in next “regular” meeting River Cruise for two; second, two nights at a select an included hot break- Open to all Oak Run the Orchid Club. on March 14 with a Marriott hotel (restrictions apply); third, $1,000 shop- fast buffet before trav- residents and their over- guest speaker. Our ping spree at local stores; fourth, $750 in gift certifi- eling to the Coconut night guests. For more Oak Run Belly cates to local restaurants; fifth, $700 “Pamper Creek Casino where information, please con- planned speaker is Eric Cummings, vice chair- Dance Club Yourself” package; sixth, $500 in gift certificates to you will have $15 in tact Susan at 237-3686. local restaurants; seventh, two one-day Busch Gar- man of the Marion The Belly Dance free play. Upon return- dens Tampa park passes and one night at a Marri- ing to the Hyatt, there Canine Club County School Board. Club meets in the back We will meet at 7 p.m., ott-owned hotel nearby (approximately $300 value); will be a cheese and Canine Club Meeting is room of the Palm Grove eighth, One pair of 2019-2020 season tickets to Ocala March 14 in the Island wine get together be- 7 p.m., March 28, at the Fitness Center on Civic Theatre, for both the Signature Series and the Club. A 50/50 will be fore going to the Broad- Island Club. We are for- Wednesdays at noon in Ovation Series, with Prime Seating Option ($370 available to support way Palm Dinner tunate to have the Mar- February and March. value). local democratic initia- Theater. The show is ion County Sheriff ’s K-9 We are learning from Tickets for the “Get Up and Go” drawing are $5 tives. Please plan to “Beauty and the Beast.” Division officers as a professional dancers each or five for $20, are on sale Feb. 7 through April join our group. After a restful night guest speaker. This 23 at the Ocala Civic Theatre box office (open Mon- For further informa- via DVD, going through and having another in- should be a great educa- day through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.). Tickets tion, contact past presi- the basic moves lead- cluded hot breakfast tion concerning our local ing to choreography. also are on sale at performances of She Loves Me, buffet our group will law enforcement. Please dent Gary Greene All levels welcome, in- Silent Sky, and Eternity. The drawing will be held at check out of the Hyatt bring a snack to share. at GRG@YorksPeach. cluding beginners. Ocala Civic Theatre at noon Tuesday, April 23. For and head toward home, This event is open to all com., or incoming pres- more information, call 352-236-2274. stopping at the Tampa Oak Run residents. The ident Wayne Namey Bring flexible shoes Hardrock Casino before Canine Club is organiz- at [email protected]. and hip scarves. Please continuing to Oak Run. ing a trip to the Endan- Also, mark your calen- arrive by 11:50 a.m., so Call Connie Smith for gered Animal Rescue in dar for our next social we can start the DVD at Big Backyard Bird Count more information and Citra. The entry fee is get together tentatively noon sharp. Also, keep reservations on the bus. $20 per adult and all planned for our April in mind there are no records 117 local species This is always one our money goes directly to meeting. chairs or tables in that most popular trips. support the animals. The Troubadours very limited space, so The Big Backyard Bird Robinson; Common date of this outing is please leave whatever Count held worldwide Grackle, 100, Glen Sims; Chinese Mah Jongg March 16. Sign up reser- Troubadours have an- possible at home or in Friday, Feb. 15, through Yellow-rumped Warbler, Monday, Feb. 18, resulted Michael Paczolt; Turkey Play Rummy Chinese vations and fee collec- other ticket sale date a locked. For informa- set for tomorrow, Feb. in 86 bird observers re- Vulture, 90, Michael Style: Learn Chinese tion will occur from 9 to tion, email Sheila at 11 a.m., March 1, in the 23. Get tickets for $5 porting 117 bird species. Paczolt; Chipping Spar- Mah Jongg [email protected] Oak Run men and Orchid Club. This next each in the Orchid Club The most counted spe- row, 90, Scott Robinson; or call 914 548-6066 and women have been play- event will be a great op- from 8-10:30 a.m. cies was the Sandhill Ring-necked Duck, 75, ing the Chinese version portunity to clean out a “Another Op’nin’, An- leave a message. Crane, 602 were counted John Sloane; and Cedar of one of America’s most closet or a garage to the other Show” will be ———n——— by Scott Robinson; Waxwing, 60, Gaye Batiz. popular table games 2-5 Marion County Humane from 7- 9 p.m., Friday, American Robin, 500, The bird count is a p.m., Thursdays and 12 to Society Thrift Store. The April 5, and from 1 to 3 Well folks, where did Wendy Milstein; Tree great family event and 4 p.m., Saturdays in the Humane Society will p.m., Saturday, April 6. this past week go? Smile! Swallow, 443, Scott Rob- birders of all ages were Orchid Club Card Room. have a truck available to There will be songs Peace, Laura Smith cs- inson; Red-winged There are now three pick up donations. Dates with all the members of [email protected]. Blackbird, 100, Scott See BIRDS/Page A27 A26 ~ Friday, February 22, 2019 www.smcitizen.com The Studio Theatre Tierra Del Sol presents, ‘World Premier Stage Readings’

Join us for four premiere staged Performances will be held in a Where: The Studio Theatre Tierra Gibbs, May 10 at 4 p.m. readings as we hear the fresh, new, “staged reading” format with no cos- Del Sol, 806 San Marino Dr. The Vil- "Something’s Coming" by J. Andrew workshopped scripts of our recently tuming or set in order to focus on lages, FL Norris and Ezra Brain, May 10 at 7 selected Florida Playwrights. and digest the script solely. Moder- When: May 10 at 4 p.m. and 7 p.m.; p.m. Each script was hand selected to ated talkbacks will be held with the May 11 at 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. "Accommodation" by Greg Burdick, workshop the week of May 6-11. playwrights and audiences to give Tickets are available online at May 11 at 4 p.m. Playwrights will have created new your constructive feedback after www.TheSharonStudio.com or call "A Superior Shakespeare" by William drafts of their show and worked each performance. You’re invited to 352-751-7799. The cost is $10 for indi- Leavengood, May 11, at 7 p.m. closely with a director and cast to fine- attend all four for a discounted vidual performances; $35 for all four The Studio Theatre’s Mission is to tune their script. ticket price, or attend a few individ- performances. inspire the residents of Central Flor- On May 10-11, we invite audiences to ually. ida to examine relevant issues by ele- come and hear the final draft and What: Scripts from Scratch, Four Schedule of events vating them through innovative and world premiere of these new plays. Plays/ Two Days "One Open Marriage" by Richard intimate storytelling. Autism SuperHero New restaurant construction FUN Walk is March 30 Outreach autism-fun- autism Sup- OaSN-intake port Network If you are looks forward interested in to seeing ev- attending the eryone at walk to sup- Sholom Park port our no for the Sixth Annual Super Hero Au- cost/low cost autism programs/services tism FUN Walk March 30 in Sholom as a participant (without an individual Park at 7110 SW 80th Avenue, Ocala, with autism in your immediate family), FL 34481. register at the link below:https://www. Registration is 9:30 to 10:15 a.m. jotform.com/oasnopa/ Those who preregistered online can super-hero-autism-fun-walk come at 10 a.m. Come dressed up as your favorite Sponsor information super hero, enter our costume contest We are excited this year that we will and stay after for entertainment, food be able to offer more family fun. We ex- PHOTOS BY RON RATNER and drink for purchase from local pect attendance to be the highest yet Gyros Bar and Grill, top photo, is under construction on SW 19th Avenue vendors. with food for sale from local vendors, Road next to the Aldi Supermarket across from Sonic. Greedy Crab is com- Support local autism services (OaSN contests, fun, games and participants ing soon to the Shady Oaks Mall near Best Buy on College Road. is the only provider of autism programs dressing up as superheroes. and services in Marion and in some This year, individuals on the spectrum surrounding counties) and have a good and their families (with an intake form time too. on file after July 31, 2018, will be admit- The FUN Walk is OaSN's biggest ted at no charge. fundraiser of the year. This event funds This will increase our attendance and low cost/no cost autism programs and offer more exposure for your business. services throughout the year that are Go to the link to sponsor our walk or solely funded by donations and private for more information: https://form.jot- grants. Thank you for your support. form.com/oasnopa/sponsor-superhero We are excited to annnouce that we -walk. are inviting all OaSN families to at- Outreach autism Services Network tend our 6th Annual Super Hero Au- has been providing programs, services, tism FUN Walk at no charge to education, events and employment to individuals with autism and their parents of children with autism since families (up to a family of six) with May 2011. preregistration. We want you to come We help local autism families and un- and be apart of this event without con- derstand their needs because many of cern for the expense. You must pre- our staff are parents of children with register at the link below to take autism. We are excited to announce our advantage of this special offer: https:// 6th Annual OaSN SuperHero FUN www.jotform.com/oasnopa/super-hero- Walk. www.smcitizen.com Friday, February 22, 2019 ~ A27 OTOW farmers market

PHOTOS BY RON RATNER Jenny Vigotty, top photo, holds seasonal flowers that she creates that are for sale at the On Top Of the World Farmers Market, Saturday, Feb. 7. All other photo show a general view of the market patrons.

parks in Marion county. North Central Florida’s The information gath- Marion County with the BIRDS ered assists scientist Marion Audubon Society, Continued from Page A25 over time in monitoring a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit bird migration around organization. able to participate in the world. Tax deductible donations reporting birds identi- Experience the diverse are welcome. fied in backyards, school natural resources and yards, church yards and scenic environment of A28 ~ Friday, February 22, 2019 www.smcitizen.com Travel Toppers has tours for mothers and fathers

Spring is nearly here, 671-8280 from 9 a.m. to 1 teas are included; a cash Ocean View Balcony trip to the Albuquerque to 1 p.m. weekdays. This and we have some great p.m. weekdays to make bar will be avail- cabin. Ports of calls are Balloon Fiesta. Air will is a trip that fills quickly trips planned. reservations. able. Mark your calendar St. Thomas, USVI; San be out of Orlando Oct. 1 every year and one you On Mother’s Day, May Our Father’s Day trip that bookings start Mon- Juan, Puerto Rico; and with all coach arrange- do not want to miss. 12, we will travel to the June 16 will be down the day, April 1, with Linda Labadee, Haiti, before ments made with May- Visit our website, www. Show Palace to see “Rat St. John’s River aboard Hein at 352-861-9880 returning to Miami. A flower Tours. This trip traveltopperstours. Pack Lounge.” The cost the Barbara Lee. The from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. $250 deposit is required will include sightseeing com, for a listing of cur- is $81 per person and in- cost of $70 per person weekdays. at time of booking with in the Old Town of Albu- rent trips. Remember cludes transportation, a will include a three-hour Space is limited for the final payment due Aug. querque, the evening these trips are open only buffet lunch, show and cruise and luncheon seven night Eastern Ca- 25. Travel protection is Balloon Glow, the Mass to residents of the On all tips. Frank, Dean and freshly prepared on ribbean cruise on the available from $99 de- Ascension, two nights in Top of the World and In- Sammy are up in heaven; board. The meal in- Oasis of the Seas sailing pending on type of cabin Santa Fe, and other his- digo communities and God tells them they left cludes a choice of prime from Miami Sunday, Nov. booked. With a minimum toric venues in the sur- their guests and remem- some unfinished prom- rib, chicken cordon bleu, 24, and returning Sun- of 20 passengers, motor rounding areas. As this ber to please honor the ises to Vic, the owner of salmon filet or roasted day, Dec. 1. Call Inge at coach transportation can article goes to print, times and days requested the Rat Pack vegetable lasagna, chef ’s 352-237-7428 from 9 a.m. be provided to and from costs and other details above to contact the trip Lounge. Frank and the salad or pasta primavera to 1 p.m. weekdays to the Port of Miami. are being finalized. If coordinators who volun- boys have one night to served with potatoes, book. Cabins start as low We are exploring inter- you are interested, teer their time to make make things right. Call veggies, salad, rolls and as $1,280 per person dou- est in several 2020 please contact Inge at these trips possible. Gail Ambrose now at 352- dessert. Hot and iced ble occupancy for an trips. One is a seven-day 352-237-7428 from 9 a.m. New England Club meets Thursday

By Donnamarie ferent ways. Visit their website preciated. must be a gateway pass holder. next Thursday, Feb. 21. Happy Castellano for more information https:// We will also collect nonper- Remember – we are at the Valentine’s Day. President www.helpinghandsocala.org/. ishable foods for a local food Recreation Center Ballroom Their immediate list of needs bank or pantry. Please be sure Our February New England is laundry soap, dish soap, toi- all expiration dates are cur- Club Social will be held Thurs- let paper, body wash, sham- rent. day, Feb. 21, 1 p.m. at the Rec- poo, toothpaste, toothbrushes, The club provides coffee, tea “And then it started like a guilty reation Center. Please join us deodorant, combs, bathroom and water. All members are for an afternoon of friendship, cleaners, counter cleaners, encouraged to bring refresh- thing fun and refreshments. Please paper plates and cups, plastic ments to share with others. watch for my email Feb. 17 for dinnerware, napkins, alumi- There will be a 50/50 drawing Upon a fearful summons.” more detailed information. num foil, plastic wrap, Zip as well as door prizes. Our speaker this month will Lock bags, fitted and flat Please contact me at don- be from Helping Hands of sheets for twin and queen- [email protected] if — William Shakespeare Ocala. They work hard to help sized beds. Anything you can you are interested in joining all people in need in many dif- help with will be greatly ap- our club. Residents in Indigo www.smcitizen.com Friday, February 22, 2019 ~ A29 Mardi Paws is Friday Hoofin’ it for Hospice The annual “Hoofin’ it for Hospice” walk that With a play on Mardi tion. allows us to continue GoldenOcala.com. will take place March 16 in Sholom Park, 7110 Gras, the “Mardi Paws-“ This is the second year our lifesaving work.” SW 80th Avenue. Both men and women are en- themed event will that Golden Ocala is For more information, About VOCAL couraged to participate. prompt funds for VO- hosting VOCAL’s Furball visit VocalForPets.org or VOCAL is a volun- Registration begins at 9 a.m. in the park and CAL’s programs that sup- Fundraiser. The present- call 352-289-0800. teer-based 501(c) (3) ani- the leisurely two-mile walk will begin around port spay/neuter, pet ing sponsor for this mal welfare organization 9:30 a.m. The two-mile walk is on paved paths in rescue and outreach. year’s event is Florida About Golden based in Marion County the park. All money received from donations Tickets to the Feb. 23 Express Environmental. Ocala Golf & and founded by Linda goes directly to Hospice of Marion County Leg- black-tie-optional Fur- In February 2018, the Norman, Kate Rengel acy House. ball Fundraiser are sold-out night raised Equestrian Club and Lauren Carpenter. This annual event is open to all residents from $125, and with only a few $146,300 for the commu- Golden Ocala is a VOCAL is focused on any community in State Road 200 corridor. Ev- dozen seats remaining, nity’s homeless pets. 1,200-plus-acre destina- solving the pet overpopu- eryone is invited to attend walking as much and must be purchased in “VOCAL was founded tion of championship lation problem in Marion as far as they can. Please bring friends or rela- advance at VocalFor- in 2015, and in four short golf and tennis, a world- County and making it a tives to join in this worthy endeavor. Pets.org. The price in- years, we’ve worked to- class equestrian center, better place for our Remember, every participant is a winner, espe- cludes dinner, gaming, wards solving pet over- luxury living, and much 4-legged friends to live. cially Hospice’s Legacy House. entertainment and a si- population with four more — packaged into a Over the last five years, Call event organizer Valerie Sanders at 352- 873-8605 for additional information or inquires. lent auction, as well as a components — preven- one-of-a-kind gated com- Marion County’s intake meet and greet with tion, education, adop- munity and located rate of homeless animals Edna, an owner-surren- tion and collaboration. among the rolling hills has been twice the na- dered pup who came to With the support of the of North Central Flor- tional average. “A charitable man is like an VOCAL without a cere- animal-loving commu- ida, otherwise known as It’s facts like these that bellum when she was nity, especially Golden Horse Country. With a drive VOCAL to make apple tree ­— he gives his fruit three months old. Ocala, we’re able to variety of elite member- Marion County a better and is silent; the philanthropist VOCAL’s intense ther- focus our programs on ships and exclusive ben- place for its pets through apy practices and fund- all those channels at efits, Golden Ocala is their programs focused is like the successful hen.” raising efforts led Edna once,” said Lauren Car- known as a premier on adoption, prevention, to adoption, social penter, Vice President venue for all occasions. education and collabora- media fame and an in- and Co-founder of It is located at 4090 NW tion. To learn more, visit — Austin O'Malley spirational platform for VOCAL. “It’s support 84th Court in Ocala. Call VOCALForPets.org or ending pet overpopula- from the community that (352) 629-6229. Online at call 352-289-0800. A30 ~ Friday, February 22, 2019 www.smcitizen.com

ARIES (March 21 to April 19) Your efforts in behalf of a colleague do not go unnoticed, let alone unappreciated. Mean- while, arrange to spend more time investigating that trou- bling fact you recently uncov- ered. TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) Devoting a lot of time to a current career move means having less time for those in your private life. But once you explain the circumstances, they should understand and be supportive. GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) Organizing your many du- ties in order of importance should help you get through them pretty quickly. Addi- tional information puts that still-to-be-made decision in a new light. CANCER (June 21 to July 22) Lingering bad feelings over a recent misunderstanding should fade as reconciliation efforts continue. Meanwhile, vacation plans might need to be revised because of new de- velopments. LEO (July 23 to August 22) Love dominates the Lion’s heart this week, with Cupid shooting arrows at single Leos and Leonas looking for ro- mance. Partnered pairs also enjoy strengthened relation- ships. VIRGO (August 23 to Sep- tember 22) “Getting to Know You” should be the single Vir- go’s theme song as you and that special person discover more about one another. That workplace situation needs looking into. LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) You might be upset at having your objectiv- ity questioned in the handling of a dispute. But it would be wise to re-examine your feel- ings to make sure you’re being fair with both sides. SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) A family dis- pute creates mixed feelings about how you hope it will be ultimately resolved. Best ad- vice: Stay out of it and let the involved parties work it through by themselves. SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) Making an effort to smooth over even the smallest obstacles now will go a long way to assuring that things run smoothly once you’re set to move on with your plans. CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) A challenge to your authority can be upset- ting, but your longtime sup- porters want you to defend your position so you can win over even your most adamant detractors. AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) Being unable to get involved in a friend’s prob- lem calls for an honest ap- proach. Provide explanations, not excuses. Another friend might be able to offer support for your decision. PISCES (February 19 to March 20) You find yourself swimming in circles, looking for some way to get back on a straight course. But things get easier once you’re able to refo- cus your energies. BORN THIS WEEK: You’re known for your charm and your wisdom, and there’s no one who wouldn’t want you to be part of his or her life.

(c) 2019 King Features Syn- dicate www.smcitizen.com Friday, February 22, 2019 ~ A31 Three-day conference celebrates women in the military

Coinciding with Inter- and in the military. SHERO Warrior Confer- relationships for women For those attending visit EventBrite. national Women’s Day, “In addition to our or- ence is for all women, as veterans to find success from out of town, dis- For more information the first-ever SHERO ganization’s work to cre- all women are shero in life after their Mili- counted hotel rates are or to register as a Warrior Conference will ate a monument warriors.” tary service. available at The Days vendor or sponsor, take place in Pensacola, honoring women in the During the three-day The conference kicks Inn by Windham in his- visit www.sherowarrior. Florida, March 8–10. military, the upcoming conference, women from off Friday, March 8, with toric downtown Pensac- com. The conference; pre- SHERO Warrior Confer- across the United States a wine tasting, hors ola for $95 a night and The Monument to sented by The Monu- ence will be an incredi- will learn about re- d’oeuvres and special at the Pensacola Grand Women Veterans is a ment to Women Veterans ble opportunity to sources, make new con- paint and wine night, Hotel for $129 a night 501 c.3 Charitable Non- in collaboration with the celebrate and recognize nections, share “Paint like a Shero,” (be sure to mention the Profit Corporation es- Powerful Women of the the 2.3 million women in concerns, take part in with local Pensacola Shero Warrior Dis- tablished in 2011. The Gulf Coast and Woman’s the military, as well as discussions on the fu- artist, Bev Schoopman. counted Rate when organization is leading Club of Pensacola, will celebrate the strength ture for women in the The conference wraps booking). the charge in recogniz- feature powerful speak- and unity of women military, and have fun up Sunday with a Cham- Tickets are available ing and empowering ers and networking op- from all walks of life,” with new and old pagne brunch at The online. Three-day tick- military women through portunities for women said Michelle Caldwell, friends. The conference Woman’s Club of Pen- ets are $150 and individ- a variety of community and will be a celebration founder of Monument to will also provide oppor- sacola with a special ual day tickets are $75. outreach and awareness of women in leadership Women Veterans. “The tunities to build working guest speaker. To purchase tickets, efforts.

“Oh, it is excellent to have a giant's strength, but it is tyrannous to use it like a giant.” ­— William Shakespeare A32 ~ Friday, February 22, 2019 www.smcitizen.com Joy Lutheran Church ‘Joyful Hands’ distributes joy By Pastor Jim Young unit and 24 quilts were donated to Ad- if not longer. Patti Young and Phyllis person. Patricia A. Woodbury vent Health. Steward are co-chairs of this ministry Joy Lutheran Church is located on Joy Lutheran Church n 11 were given to Project Hope and Georgia Adams is the past chair- SR 200 at 7045 SW 83rd Place, Ocala. n 8 went to our Angel Tree families It seems like magic when the quilts n 11 were donated to the Lake Sum- appear each year and are displayed in ter Children’s Advocacy Center in the sanctuary of Joy Lutheran Church Leesburg with all their beautiful colors and de- n 20 were given to the Ocala Ritz signs. Veterans Village 2018 was another fruitful year for n 32 were given to support the relief our “Joyful Hands” quilters. From efforts of the Salvation Army picking out and cutting fabric to laying n 88 were shipped to Lutheran out the squares and sewing the tops to- World Relief to support that organiza- gether to placing batting in between tion’s global relief and compassion and sewing the edges, then knotting programs. (Many countries from Cen- each quilt, the ladies produced 278 tral and South America, Africa, India beautiful quilt creations between Feb- and to Europe receive the benefit of ruary 2018 and February 2019. this good will.) However, the story doesn’t end there. The quilts were displayed on the Joy is spread to our area as these “la- pews in the church sanctuary on Janu- bors of love” are donated to local agen- ary 20th and 27th and 25 quilts were cies. Here’s where they went: purchased by the members to help At Christmas time, 25 quilts found support the quilting ministry. their way to the Marion County Domes- An average of 15 ladies gets together tic Abuse Shelter. every Wednesday morning at 8:30am n 25 quilts were contributed to Hos- for quilting and fellowship. In addi- pice of Marion County. tion, there are a few ladies that sew at PHOTO BY NORMAN HALVORSEN n 4 were given to our shut-ins. home. These ladies have been produc- The many beautiful quilts by the Joyful Hands displayed in the sanctuary at Joy n 5 baby quilts went to the pediatric ing these quilts for at least seven years, Lutheran Church. www.smcitizen.com Friday, February 22, 2019 ~ A33 A34 ~ Friday, February 22, 2019 www.smcitizen.com www.smcitizen.com Friday, February 22, 2019 ~ A35 A36 ~ Friday, February 22, 2019 www.smcitizen.com