MARION COUNTY’S OFFICIAL NEWS SOURCE County Connection, an award winning publication COUNTY CONNECTION

VOLUME 2 ISSUE 7 • JULY 2010 TOP IN THIS ISSUE STORY

Section Page(s) –––––––––––––––––––––––––––– • Top Story – Proud and Free 1-2 Proud • Behind the Scenes – Facilities Management...... 3 • Employee Spotlight ...... 3 & • Best-kept Secret...... 4 • Commission Corner...... 5 • News Flash...... 6-7 • In Case You Missed It ...... 8 • Garden Sense ...... 8 FreeBy Heather Danenhower, Marion County Office of Public Information • Pets of the Month...... 8 • Calendar of Events...... 9-10 –––––––––––––––––––––––– “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are Marion County Commissioners created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty Mike Amsden, District 1 and the pursuit of Happiness….” Jim Payton, District 2 Stan McClain, Vice Chair, District 3 When Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the United Barbara Fitos, Chair, District 4 States, and his fellow Committee of Five, including John Charlie Stone, District 5 Adams and Benjamin Franklin, wrote and edited the –––––––––––––––––––––––– Declaration of Independence to present to Congress, they likely didn’t know what those then 13 colonies would Marion County Administrator become – Connecticut, Delaware, Georgia, Maryland, Dr. Lee A. Niblock Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, –––––––––––––––––––––––– North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina and Virginia. County Connection Team Indeed, many of the 56 signers of the Declaration thought Executive Editor dissolving their allegiance to King George III and Great Heather Danenhower Britain would lead to certain death by hanging. But the Marion County impassioned revolutionaries persevered with resilience – a Office of Public Information pioneering spirit that these now 50 states are known for even Managing Editor after 234 years of independence. Christy L. Jergens The United States. Marion County Office of Public Information Home to the Grand Canyon, Niagara Falls, Florida Everglades and Marion County’s own Silver Springs. Copy Editors Jessica Briand America. Marion County Veterans Services Known for its rock and roll, jazz and baseball as well as Elaine DeIorio authors like Mark Twain, Ernest Hemingway, Emily Marion County Animal Services Sharan Reif Continued on page 2. Marion County Public Safety Communications MISSION STATEMENT Marion County provides professional and resourceful public services for our citizens through strategic planning and cost- effective implementation of county initiatives, generating positive results that set the standard for quality local government.

“Meeting Needs by Exceeding Expectations” COUNTY CONNECTION MARION COUNTY’S OFFICIAL NEWS SOURCE Proud EXPLOSIONAN & OF SAFETY (continued) Free By Miranda Iglesias, Marion County Fire Rescue Dickinson and modern day Stephen King, Tom Clancy and Stephenie Meyer. Burns. Emergency trips to the hospital. Fire damage. – Light one firework at a time, and never try to re- This probably doesn’t sound like your idea of a fun light a “dud.” Land of the Free. July 4th weekend, but injuries and fires from fireworks are actually quite common. – Never throw or point fireworks at people. The inventors of air conditioning, airplanes and airbags; modern technologies like laptop computers, – Don’t mix alcohol and fireworks – appoint a e-mail, internet and copy machines; and everyday More fires are reported in the United States on designated “shooter.” Independence Day than on any other day of the year. conveniences such as light bulbs, bifocal lenses, – Never shoot fireworks indoors or into metal or automated teller machines, escalators and microwaves. According to the National Fire Protection Association, fireworks are responsible for more than glass containers. Home of the Brave. half of those fires. In numbers, that means in a – Wear eye protection and gloves when igniting typical year (such as 2006), fireworks caused an fireworks. The pioneers of medical advances including the polio estimated 32,600 reported fires, six deaths, 70 and cervical cancer vaccines and laser vision injuries and $34 million in direct property damage – Ignite sparklers and other legal novelties outdoors correction. across the country. on a flat, hard surface in an open area away from Sweet Land of Liberty. grass and other combustibles. People may light a variety of fireworks during their The creators of jeans, Jell-O, Monopoly, sunscreen – Do not leave sparklers, fireworks or combustible Independence Day festivities, but any fireworks that materials where children may access them. and virtual reality. explode, leave the ground or shoot projectiles are Americans. illegal in Florida. Reaching temperatures higher than – Never allow children to use sparklers or fireworks 1,000 degrees, even legal sparklers can prove without adult supervision. The great believers of democracy who will let freedom dangerous by causing severe burns and other – Do not run while using sparklers or other ring this July 4, 2010, in celebration of America’s 234th injuries, such as puncture wounds. birthday. fireworks. Declaration of Independence, July 4, 1776. If your sparklers or fireworks cause a significant fire, – Soak used fireworks in water for at least 15 citizens may be held responsible for paying fire minutes before throwing them away. Editor’s Note: Quoted material was taken from the suppression fees and even face criminal charges. So – Never experiment with or make homemade Declaration of Independence as posted on the U.S. if you want to keep injuries and fines out of your fireworks. National Archives and Records Administration family’s fun-filled Fourth of July, follow these safety website. The list of American inventions was taken tips from Marion County Fire Rescue: – Call 911 immediately if someone gets hurt or from the Encyclopedia Britannica website. burned or if a fire erupts. – Attend a professional fireworks display. – Do not purchase or ignite illegal fireworks. – Read and follow labeled directions, only using fireworks for their intended purposes. – Keep a fire extinguisher or water hose handy just in case an emergency arises.

“Meeting Needs by Exceeding Expectations” 2 COUNTY CONNECTION MARION COUNTY’S OFFICIAL NEWS SOURCE EMPLOYEE B E H I N D FACILITIES MANAGEMENT SPOTLIGHT

T H E Helps Locals Get Compiled by Kari Chiasson, Marion County Facilities SCENES Management Back to Work WAYNE NOONAN By Christy Jergens, Marion County Office of Public Information HVAC Chief of Trades, Facilities Management The economy has delivered some staggering blows to improving their skills and building their resumes.” many county residents during the past few years. Some What led you to your current career or position? The temporary workers began working with the county in companies have laid off a portion of their workers When I began high school, my father encouraged me to go April and will continue until the contract expires in whereas other businesses have closed their doors. Many into the HVAC field. I have always been interested in workers were left jobless and unable to find new work. September. building things and figuring out how things work. As a child, I was always taking things apart to see how they However, when the federal economic stimulus funds worked, so this career fit my personality and interests. started making their way to state and local governments, James Johns officials found new hope. The funds from the American What is the oddest job you have ever had? Reinvestment and Recovery Act could be used to hire James Johns was working with Precision Air until the When I was 13 years old, I planted every tree in a 15-acre temporary workers, so the state created the Florida Back avocado grove that had soil made of coral rocks. to Work program to aid in the process. business was sold. Johns went to the Employ Florida What are some unique or interesting projects you County leaders hired temporary workers for nine county site, took online tests and have worked on as a Marion County employee? departments through the program. Grant funds are made sure to follow up with paying 100 percent of the cost of the wages and 80 the agency with hopes of Construction of the fifth floor of the Marion County Judicial percent of the benefits and grant administration costs. getting one of the temporary jobs with Marion County. Center, the inmate worker barracks, the interim housing at Marion County pays the remaining 20 percent of the Johns is now working on the HVAC team, led by Wayne the Marion County Jail, the new Supervisor of Elections benefits and grant administration. Noonan, who you can meet in the Employee Spotlight. office, the Rainbow Springs fire station, the tax collector’s office and the sheriff’s sub-station. The Facilities Management department received 17 Johns also spends his weekends working for the Parks workers to assist with projects. They work with the and Recreation Department helping to maintain Carney What would you like for the average resident to department’s electrical, HVAC, plumbing, carpentry, Island. know about your department or position? painting, building and grounds and jail crews. They have Josh Ayala The Facilities Department has some of the most also worked on multiple building renovations, repairs knowledgeable, hard-working trades professionals in and other related projects. The additional workers have Josh Ayala went to trade Marion County. This department is able to consistently enabled Facilities Management to increase productivity school to become an and successfully address construction and maintenance by completing maintenance work orders and renovations electrician. Ayala spent five needs that arise in the county. faster. years working for Pikes Electric in The Villages. Ayala Tell us a little about your home life. “This program is benefiting our local community by then went to work for Bellaour putting people back to work,” said Kari Chiasson, My wife, Sandra, and I met at Vanguard High when we Electric, but the company were 16 years old and have been together ever since then. Facilities Management Project Coordinator. “Some of went out of business. Ayala’s former boss let him know the temps had been unemployed for more than a year One week after starting my employment with where he could potentially find other opportunities, and the county, our son, Travis was born. before starting work with us. This program has been a Ayala became part of the Facilities Management team He is now 11 years old. Our pets are way for them to get back into the working world, while through the program . two goldfish, one red-eared slider turtle and whatever species of wildlife my son brings home. Department Name: Facilities Management maintained, and Marion County’s Facilities Department Director: Andy Race Management department is the group that takes care What would people be Number of staff: 61 of those needs. Together, the department’s surprised to know about you? Hours: Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. electricians, carpenters, air conditioning technicians, I don’t like to have my plumbers, painters, cabinet makers and picture taken. maintenance workers work out of the county’s County government facilities stretch across Marion McPherson Governmental Complex, the Marion County and cover more than three million square County Judicial Center and the Marion County Jail. feet. All of that square footage needs to be regularly

“Meeting Needs by Exceeding Expectations” 3 COUNTY CONNECTION MARION COUNTY’S OFFICIAL NEWS SOURCE

BEST-KEPT SECRET Carney Island Recreation/ConservationArea 13275 SE 115th Ave. Carney Island Ocklawaha, FL A RICH HISTORY Hours of Operation: Summer: 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. By Gina Peebles, Marion County Parks and Recreation Winter: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Carney Island is steeped in old Florida history, yet provides modern amenities and state-of-the- Seminole Indians, special oranges and Coca-Cola For most of the last century, the area surrounding art systems to protect the are just some of the varied history that makes up the Carney groves flourished as a citrus producing site’s ecological character. Carney Island’s past. When Spanish missionaries region. The citrus was shipped by steamboat from a The Carney Island property first visited the Lake Weir region around 1600, more packinghouse on the east shore of the property is a nature park that includes more than 750 acres than 4000 years ago, the Timucuan Indians across Lake Weir to the railroad. Park visitors can of sand hill islands, causeways, wetland systems occupied Marion County. Diseases carried by the still see the former dock pilings on site. and shoreline beaches. The park also addresses Europeans decimated the local tribes by the mid- some of the environmental impact of modern living. 1600s, and around 1700, the British forced the Citrus continued to play a significant role on the For example, water that collects in the renovated Creek Indians (later known as the Seminoles) into island until a hard freeze wiped out the citrus trees parking lots runs off into specially designed Florida. Many Seminoles settled in the Lake Weir around Lake Weir in 1894. However, most groves retention areas that filter the water before it streams area where they farmed and raised livestock. were re-established, and citrus groves remained an back into Little Lake Weir. important area agricultural industry until another In 1875, brothers E.L. Carney and Captain John L. widespread freeze in 1984. Carney Island’s picnic areas, pavilions, swimming Carney purchased a peninsular piece of land on areas, playgrounds and boat launches are all less than two years old. The park also offers hiking and Little Lake Weir, now known as Carney Island. They Coca-Cola® came onto the scene in 1960, when it developed and later expanded a 25-acre orange bought the Carney Island property after the company biking trails through natural Florida vegetation and fishing in the lake. Call Marion County Parks and grove where they propagated new varieties of citrus, purchased Minute Maid®. In 1990, Marion County Recreation at 352-671-8560 for more information including the Parson Brown variety, a sweet fruit leaders bought the property from Coca-Cola® using thought by the Carney’s to have a pineapple flavor funds from the “Pennies for Parks” program. about Carney Island and its recreational amenities. and aroma.

“Meeting Needs by Exceeding Expectations” 4 COUNTY CONNECTION MARION COUNTY’S OFFICIAL NEWS SOURCE COMMISSION CORNER Commissioners From L to R: Mike Amsden, Vice Chair By Miranda Iglesias, Marion County Fire Rescue and Christy Jergens, Marion County Office of Public Information Stan McClain, Chair Barbara Fitos, Charlie Stone and Jim Payton

Life Lines Top Communicator County Communications Efforts Marion County Public Safety Communications staff Win Awards culminated the end of National Telecommunicator Week County commissioners and recently with an appreciation dinner for department staff. Laura Byrnes, President- Fellow dispatchers nominated and named Christopher elect of the Florida Public Bulla the 2010 Dispatcher of the Year. Relations Association Ocala Chapter, recognized Marion The awareness week honors thousands of dispatchers County’s communications who serve 911 call centers across the country. These professionals during a men and women work 24 hours a day, seven days a recent board meeting after “Fire Rescue, what’s the address of your emergency?” week calming callers needing help, easing panic and they won several awards at That’s what callers first hear from Marion County Public relaying vital information to 911 callers and emergency the North Central Florida Local Image Awards banquet Safety Communications dispatchers when they dial 911. crews – information that can mean the difference held in Gainesville. Indeed, dispatchers are known for using their phone lines between life and death. as life lines, and now, their efforts are receiving national County employees Heather Danenhower, Marion County attention. Office of Public Information; Christy Jergens, Marion County Office of Public Information; and Peveeta Persaud, Marion County Public Safety Communications earned its Marion County Fire Rescue, in cooperation with the dual-accreditation as an Emergency Fire and EMS Marion County SOURCE and MCFR’s 30th Anniversary Dispatch Center of Excellence, one of the highest Committee, won awards for excellence in public relations certifications a dispatch center can achieve. In fact, programming. The divisions included Public Relations according to the National Academy of Emergency Programs, Printed Tools and Audio/Visual Tools. Dispatch, only 15 centers in the world have fire accreditation, and globally, only 10 centers are dual- County Connection E-Publication accredited to dispatch both fire and EMS calls. The – Image Award (best entry in the Electronic department formally presented the dual-accreditation Communications category). certification before the Marion County Board of County Flying High – Grand Image Award (best entry in the Audio/Visual Commissioners in June. Marion County and Dunnellon Airport officials conducted Tools division, which includes 11 categories). To receive the designation, the department met a 20-point a ribbon-cutting ceremony on June 3, 2010, in honor of accreditation requirement and passed an on-site visit from the airport’s new hangars. The airport recently added 20 MCFR Change Your Clocks; Change Your the National Academy of Emergency Dispatch officials. new T-hangars to accommodate increasing demand for Batteries Smoke Alarm Postcard Campaign individual aircraft storage. The hangars’ unique T-shape “Being awarded this high distinction for medical and fire allows airport officials to maximize the number of units – Image Award (best entry in the Other category). accreditation is very exciting,” said Karl Oltz, Director, that can fit into one storage building. The new hangars also – Grand Image Award (best entry in the Printed Tools Public Safety Communications. “This accomplishment provide more shelter and security for aircraft owners. division, which includes 10 categories). demonstrates to the community that Marion County Public Safety Communications is compliant with all international The new hangers will generate an estimated $62,400 a MCFR 30th Anniversary standards for emergency dispatch.” year in revenue, enabling airport officials to better fund airport maintenance, equipment and infrastructure. The – Award of Distinction (awarded to entries that meet International standards for emergency dispatch include a airport is a self-sustaining department not reliant on tax standards of excellence). variety of requirements, but the most important includes dollars. Competition judges come from Florida Public Relations providing life-saving instructions to at least 95 percent of Association chapters across the state. Judges are callers a month. Meeting this requirement is extremely The hanger project cost $991,000, which is approximately $209,000 less than the budged amount. Local company accredited in public relations and base their scores on solid important, because it allows dispatchers to provide critical public relations practices and ethical standards, including: instructions to citizens before rescue crews arrive on- Feasterco Construction, Inc. started the project in November 2009 and finished it in May 2010. research/situational analysis, measurable objectives, scene. implementation, evaluation and budget. Now, the entries will compete at the state level.

“Meeting Needs by Exceeding Expectations” 5 COUNTY CONNECTION MARION COUNTY’S OFFICIAL NEWS SOURCE NEWSFLASH Wanted: Water Watchers

By Bart Walker, Marion County Fire Rescue and Heather Danenhower, Marion County Office of Public Information

Suppose the phone rings, and you take the call; or supervision. In many drowning situations, adults are 4 Weak or no swimming ability someone knocks on the door, and you go to answer. present in or near the water area but become momentarily These everyday distractions are seemingly harmless and distracted. That’s why all water enthusiasts should appoint Children who don’t know how to swim are eight times innocent, but in the time it takes to say hello, your child a “water watcher” to actively supervise children around more likely to be at-risk of drowning. Enroll your child in could get seriously hurt and even die. water. The “water watcher” should never get distracted, a swimming class to cut this risk. and they should keep a phone nearby in case of an 5 Lack of life jackets Children are irresistibly drawn to water, and hundreds of emergency. children drown every year in the United States. Florida Thousands of boating accidents occur each year in lakes, leads the nation in accidental drowning for children who 2 No barriers to water rivers and oceans, and hundreds of people drown. Ninety are 1 to 4 years old, and Marion County is no exception. Children are naturally curious, so when they see their percent of those who drown were not wearing a life jacket; In 2009 alone, Marion County firefighters responded to favorite toy floating in a pool, they undoubtedly will reach most never intended to even enter the water. 16 drownings or near drownings, half of which involved for it. Indeed, children, especially those younger than four, When selecting a life vest, make sure it fits adequately. children. In most cases, the children wandered into the are especially likely to find and fall into water bodies like Many models for toddlers include leg straps to keep the water while left unsupervised. lakes, pools, bathtubs, buckets and even fish ponds. jacket from going over their head, extra flotation designed Never leave a child alone near water, and keep toddlers to keep them floating face up and grab straps to help get A drowning emergency can happen to any family, within an arm’s reach. anytime. In fact, a child can drown in as little as two inches them out of the water. Using a life jacket is required by of water, including bathtubs and fish ponds. However, Although no safety feature is 100 percent effective, pool law in many instances, e.g. children who ride on boats. according to www.safekids.org, these emergencies are owners should install a four-foot high barrier around all preventable and predictable. That’s why emergency sides of a pool. They should also install a self-closing, Simple safety this summer will put a damper on responders want to help families this summer by self-locking device on all entrances leading to the pool your water worries. For more information, go to revealing “5 Truths” about drowning victims. Knowing area and install alarms on all doors and windows that www.safekids.org or www.poolsafety.gov. the truth just might save a life. provide direct access from the home to the pool. Cover the pool or hot tub when not in use. For more information about permits required for pools, including above ground pools, contact the Marion County Building Department at 5Truths 352-438-2400. 3 Weak or no CPR skills about drowning victims Drowning victims who immediately receive cardiopulmonary resuscitation, or CPR, are more likely to Editor’s Note: Information in this section was substantially survive. Brain damage starts within six minutes, but CPR, adapted from the www.safekids.org website. when used correctly, can help prevent brain damage and prolong life until trained paramedics arrive. Never delay 1 Weak or no supervision calling 911, even if a child starts breathing again. Life is hectic. People have become so accustomed to Adults, and even children if they are physically able, multi-tasking that texting, talking and even reading at the should become certified in CPR. Many community same time are second nature. However, children can groups offer this certification for free or for a nominal fee. drown quickly and silently in a matter of seconds. For more information, contact Marion County Fire What’s more: knowing how to swim and relying on Rescue’s Training and Safety Division at 352-291-8076. floatation devices are not good substitutes for adult

“Meeting Needs by Exceeding Expectations” 6 COUNTY CONNECTION NEWSFLASH Summer beach read review– Make summer sizzle This is the second in a series with favorite authors of three summer beach read reviews. This month’s special review focuses on three top-notch By Linda Porter, Marion County Public Library System summer reads. Book images taken from amazon.com.

Whether you like to read while soaking up the sun or you prefer air-conditioned comfort, summer is a great time to catch up with old friends, especially when those friends are found within the pages of a favorite author’s books.

Magic Marriage Fans of Jim Butcher can’t Prefer a little laughter? get enough of Harry Reach for “Miss Julia Dresden, Chicago’s only Renews Her Vows,” by Ann professional wizard. Harry B. Ross. Miss Julia, now routinely faces demons, Mrs. Sam Murdoch, is NOW P vampires, werewolves, convinced that her new LA .. sorcerers and other horrors. husband is tiring of her. YING. In “Changes,” Harry Sam is a vast improvement Stormwater PSA Award at your local movie theatre discovers that he and his ex- in every way over her late, Winner! love, Susan Rodriguez, have unlamented first husband, a child, a little girl that the evil and Miss Julia wants to “Neighborhood“Neighbborhood KiKids” ids” vampire Arianna Ortega, Duchess of the Red Court, is show her appreciation by renewing their marriage vows. starringstarring holding prisoner. The twelfth in the series, “Changes,” is Miss Julia’s tart tongue and bossy ways enliven any Dunnellonn Middle School studentsstudennts TenTen smarsmart rtt kids catch atch a neighbor applapplying lyingying too oo much a compelling entry in one of the best urban fantasy series reading session. fertilizerfertilizer on his lawn wn and educate him on the e harharmfulrmfulmful published today. impacts it can n have on our water resourcesresources. rces. Willl you be next? Danger Public serviceser rvice These books are all available at the Marion County BeB wwise announcementnt playingpla aying when youyou lizi e at RegalRegal HollywoodHollyw ywood 16 Mystery fans love Sherlock Public Library System. Call the Headquarters- fertilizeferti through July!July!

Holmes and so do con- Ocala Public Library at 352-671-8551 for more Broughtght to youyou byby the Marion County StormwaterStor ormwater temporary authors. Laurie R. information, or check out the library website at ManagManagementement Section and MrMr. r.. Grass ass King has picked up on the http://library.marioncountyfl.org. Holmes character and extended the storyline to include a young wife, a long lost son and a half-Chinese grandchild for the renowned character. In “The God of the Hive,” Holmes and his wife Mary Russell must rescue Damien and little Estelle from a homicidal maniac. Damien’s wife has been murdered and the police have warrants out for his arrest. Look for plenty of adventure and excitement in this suspenseful novel.

“Meeting Needs by Exceeding Expectations” 7 COUNTY CONNECTION MARION COUNTY’S OFFICIAL NEWS SOURCE IN CASE YOU Missed It! Garden Sense

Photos by Jessica Briand, Marion County Veterans Services and Peveeta Persaud, Marion County Fire Rescue

Memorial Day Celebration By Jo Leyte-Vidal, UF/IFAS Marion County Extension Service (Master Gardener) Local officials and residents Have you noticed that the rain lilies (Zephyr lily) are – Keep your herbs trimmed gathered to remember and in bloom? These lovely lavender or pink flowers so they will continue to honor America’s veterans at bloom for two days after a rain. The rain water grow. They will cease a special event on Memorial contains natural nitrogen that enhances plant growth if allowed to bloom and will get long Day (May 31, 2010) at the growth; these blooms won’t bud when watered with woody stems if not pruned. Ocala-Marion County Veterans tap water. Memorial Park. – Be sure to monitor the moisture in your garden. Speaking of rain, thousands of gallons of rain water Too much water will cause tomatoes to split and EMS Education runs off the roof and ends up down storm drains. not enough water will cause blossoms to drop. But, you could capture this treasure by using rain Now that our night time temperatures are rising, barrels, which can capture a large amount of water you may find that the tomato plants will be that you can then use to irrigate your gardens. slowing production of fruit.

Another way to prevent rain water from rushing – Add compost to empty beds so they will be ready across the ground is to develop rain gardens. This for August planting of cool weather vegetables. mini retention area will slow water runoff and capture overflow from a rain barrel. You should plant rain – In your flower garden, Canna lilies are nearly gardens with native plants that are not bothered by finished blooming. If you remove spent flowers wet feet one day and dry ground the next. Call the you can encourage the plant to set more Marion County Fire Rescue held a special EMS Master Gardeners at 352-671-8400 for information blossoms. New flower stalks will grow from the educational event at the McPherson complex on about rain barrels and rain gardens. stem just below where the old one was. Cannas May 19, 2010. Residents who attended the free sometimes harbor leaf rollers. You can treat the community-wide event had the opportunity to July Gardening Tips plants with Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) or Carbaryl talk with EMS professionals, local hospitals and (Sevin). Remember, read the label and mix Marion County Public Safety Communications. – Gardeners can still plant southern peas, okra, accordingly. Attendees also visited unit displays and eggplant, watermelon and peppers this month. participated in equipment demonstrations. –– OF By Elaine DeIorio, Marion County PETS THEMONTH Animal Services –– Bella Bella will steal your heart in an instant with her cheery smile. She loves The adoption fee for Cookie (A001688) or to play, makes friends quickly and is looking for the perfect lap to leap Bella (A001966) is only $40 and includes: into. Bella is an approximately 6-year-old beagle who wants a new family spay/neuter surgery, a county license, and a second chance. current vaccinations and a microchip. Call Marion County Animal Services at 352- Cookie 671-8700 for more information, or visit the This Cookie’s recipe is mostly sugar, a dash of spice and a pinch of department Tuesday - Friday from 10 a.m. - adventure. Mix in a lot of love and friendship from you, and this Cookie 5:30 p.m. or Saturday from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. will be ready to share a glass of milk. Cookie is a female domestic shorthair kitten and approximately eight weeks old.

“Meeting Needs by Exceeding Expectations” 8 COUNTY CONNECTION MARION COUNTY’S OFFICIAL NEWS SOURCE Calendarof Events

Compiled by Sharan Reif, Public Safety Communications and Elizabeth Leger, Public Safety Communications

Marion County Board of County Commissioners July 7 9 a.m. Board of County Commissioners Meeting McPherson Complex Auditorium July 7 10 a.m. Public Hearing to Consider Inventory List of McPherson Complex Auditorium County-owned Land (for Affordable Housing) July 15 12 - 5 p.m. Marion County Employee Blood Drive McPherson Governmental Complex LifeSouth Community Blood Centers July 20 9 a.m. Board of County Commissioners Meeting McPherson Complex Auditorium July 20 2 p.m. Board of County Commissioners Meeting McPherson Complex Auditorium (Zoning Portion) July 27 4 p.m. Ocala/Marion County Transportation Planning Organization Meeting

Marion County Animal Services July 2 12 - 1:30 p.m. WVLG Radio Station Dog Adoptions 1101 Main St., The Villages July 3 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Cat Adoptions at PetSmart 534 U.S. Highway 441, Lady Lake July 6-9 All Day Animal Center closed for quarterly cleaning 5701 SE 66th St., Ocala July 9 12 - 1:30 p.m. WVLG Radio Station Dog Adoptions 1101 Main St., The Villages July 10 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Cat Adoptions at PetSmart 534 U.S. Highway 441, Lady Lake July 16 12 - 1:30 p.m. WVLG Radio Station Dog Adoptions 1101 Main St., The Villages July 17 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Cat Adoptions at PetSmart 534 U.S. Highway 441, Lady Lake July 23 12 - 1:30 p.m. WVLG Radio Station Dog Adoptions 1101 Main St., The Villages July 24 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Cat Adoptions at PetSmart 534 U.S. Highway 441, Lady Lake July 30 12 - 1:30 p.m. WVLG Radio Station Dog Adoptions 1101 Main St., The Villages July 31 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Cat Adoptions at PetSmart 534 U.S. Highway 441, Lady Lake

Marion County Parks and Recreation (Programs may require pre-registration and a small fee; please call 352-671-8560 for more information.) July 2 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Summer Park Explorers (Ages 11-15) Brick City Adventure Park July 3 9:30 a.m. Kayak Outing (Adults) Silver River (Ray Wayside) July 6 9 a.m. Parks and Recreation Month Proclamation McPherson Complex Auditorium July 9 9:30 a.m. Kayak Outing (Adults) Juniper Springs

July 2010 July July 10 9:30 a.m. Kayak Outing (Adults) Ocklawaha River (Ray Wayside) July 16 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Summer Park Explorers (Ages 11-15) Brick City Adventure Park July 17 9:30 a.m. Basic Wild Caving Experience (Age 8+) Brick City Adventure Park July 18 9:30 a.m. Kayak Outing (Adults) Ocklawaha River (Gores Landing) July 21 3 p.m. Parks and Recreation Advisory Council Parks and Recreation Conference Room July 23 9:30 a.m. Kayak Outing (Adults) Ocklawaha River (Ray Wayside) July 24 9:30 a.m. Kayak Outing (Adults) Silver River (Ray Wayside) July 26-30 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Fish Camp (Ages 9-15) Brick City Adventure Park July 31 9:30 a.m. Kayak Outing (Adults) Ocklawaha River (Gores Landing)

Marion County Public Library System *Registration Required. Marion’s libraries also offer many computer, movie and story time opportunities. Please contact your local library branch or visit http://www.marioncountyfl.org/Library/Library_default.aspx for additional information.

July 1 2 p.m. Storyteller Windell Campbell Dunnellon Public Library July 1 2 p.m. Reptile Discovery with Bruce Shwedick Freedom Public Library July 1 2 p.m. Summer Book Club for Grades K-6* Headquarters-Ocala Public Library July 1 2 p.m. "An Ocean of Fun” with guest, Megan Brew Marion Oaks Public Library July 2 2 p.m. Crafts and Fun for Teens - Online Scrapbooking Belleview Public Library July 2 2 p.m. Just for Teens - Manga! Headquarters-Ocala Public Library July 3 2 p.m. Stupendous Saturdays! (Arts, Film and Fun) Freedom Public Library July 6-10 All Day July Blowout (Half-price) Book Sale Dunnellon Public Library July 6 4 p.m. Teen Book Discussions Headquarters-Ocala Public Library July 6 2 p.m. Camp Splash for Grades K-3 Headquarters-Ocala Public Library July 6 2 p.m. Tween Tribes for Grades 4-6 Headquarters-Ocala Public Library July 7 2 p.m. Teen Support Crew and Think Tank Freedom Public Library

“Meeting Needs by Exceeding Expectations” 9 COUNTY CONNECTION MARION COUNTY’S OFFICIAL NEWS SOURCE

Calendarof Events(Continued)

July 8 2 p.m. Teens, Get Stuck on Duct Tape Dunnellon Public Library July 8 2 p.m. Just for Teens - Creepy, Cute Crochet and Headquarters-Ocala Public Library Sock Creatures July 8 2 p.m. Summer Book Club for Grades K-6* Headquarters-Ocala Public Library July 8 10 a.m. The Random Players Theatre Reddick Public Library July 9 2 p.m. Crafts and Fun for Teens - Water Globes Belleview Public Library July 10 2 p.m. Stupendous Saturdays! (Arts, Film and Fun) Freedom Public Library July 10 2 p.m. Super Saturdays - Curious Moon Headquarters-Ocala Public Library Puppet Theater July 12 3 p.m. Puppet Show "H2OLOGY" Dunnellon Public Library July 12 11:30 p.m. Water Your Mind - Read! (Special Guest Speakers) Marion Oaks Public Library July 13 2 p.m. Camp Splash for Grades K-3 Headquarters-Ocala Public Library July 13 2 p.m. Tween Tribes for Grades 4-6 Headquarters-Ocala Public Library July 14 2 p.m. Teen Support Crew and Think Tank Freedom Public Library July 14 10:30 a.m. Curious Moon Puppet Theater Ft. McCoy Public Library July 15 2 p.m. Teens’ Scrumptious Summer Snacks Dunnellon Public Library July 15 2 p.m. Art Van-Go Forest Public Library July 15 2 p.m. Summer Book Club for Grades K-6* Headquarters-Ocala Public Library July 16 2 p.m. Crafts and Fun for Teens - Board Games Belleview Public Library July 16 3 p.m. Family Game Day Dunnellon Public Library July 16 2 p.m. Just for Teens - Wii Gaming and Board Games Headquarters-Ocala Public Library July 17 11 a.m. Zoofair! A Visit from the Jacksonville Zoo Freedom Public Library July 17 2 p.m. Super Saturdays - "Zoo to You" with Jacksonville Zoo Headquarters-Ocala Public Library July 19 11:30 p.m. Water Your Mind - Read! Special Guest Speakers Marion Oaks Public Library July 20 11 a.m. Kids’ Art* Dunnellon Public Library July 20 2 p.m. Camp Splash for Grades K-3 Headquarters-Ocala Public Library July 20 2 p.m. Tween Tribes for Grades 4-6 Headquarters-Ocala Public Library July 21 2 p.m. Teen Support Crew and Think Tank Freedom Public Library July 22 2 p.m. Summer Book Club for Grades K-6* Headquarters-Ocala Public Library July 22 10 a.m. BubbleMania and Company Reddick Public Library July 23 2 p.m. Crafts and Fun for Teens - Bottle Cap Jewelry Belleview Public Library July 23 10:30 a.m. Kindermusik for Toddlers and Preschoolers Dunnellon Public Library July 23 2 p.m. Just for Teens - Printmaking with Sheila Ramos Headquarters-Ocala Public Library July 24 2 p.m. Stupendous Saturdays! (Arts, Film and Fun) Freedom Public Library July 2010 July July 26 11:30 p.m. Water Your Mind - Read! Special Guest Speakers Marion Oaks Public Library July 27 11 a.m. The Random Players Theatre Dunnellon Public Library July 27 2 p.m. Beach Party for Grades K-6 Headquarters-Ocala Public Library (Reading Club Membership Card Required) July 28 2 p.m. Teen Support Crew and Think Tank Freedom Public Library July 28 10:30 a.m. The Random Players Theatre Ft. McCoy Public Library July 29 2 p.m. "A Torrent of Talent" Talent Show for Grades K-5 Forest Public Library July 29 2 p.m. Jiggleman Freedom Public Library July 29 2 p.m. Summer Book Club for Grades K-6* Headquarters-Ocala Public Library July 29 10 a.m. Talent Show Reddick Public Library July 30 2 p.m. Crafts and Fun for Teens: Candy Sushi Belleview Public Library July 30 11 a.m. Reading Club Party Dunnellon Public Library (For Reading Club Members Only) July 30 2 p.m. Just for Teens – It’s a Food Thing: Candy Sushi Headquarters-Ocala Public Library July 31 2 p.m. No Contest Talent Contest Freedom Public Library July 31 10 a.m. No Splash Bash Water Festival Headquarters-Ocala Public Library

Marion County Veterans Services July 4 7 a.m. Freedom Run Ocala-Marion County Veterans Memorial Park July 10 10 a.m. Quarterly Memorial Ocala-Marion County Veterans Memorial Park

UF/IFAS Marion County Extension Service **Registration required - call 352-854-3699 or visit www.masterthepossibilities.com. ***For more information, visit http://smallfarms.ifas.ufl.edu.

July 19 11 a.m. Container Gardening Marion Oaks Public Library July 29 1 – 3 p.m. The Conservation Balancing Act** On Top of the World July 31 – Aug 1 All Day Florida Small Farms Alternative Osceola Heritage Park, Kissimmee, FL Enterprises Conference***

*Event dates and times are subject to change without notice.

“Meeting Needs by Exceeding Expectations” 10