Mccall Takes Reins As School Board Chair Beth Mccall, the Newest Member of the That’S When Stacy Cast Her Vote for Angie Board in 2010 and Again in 2014

INDEX Quail Meadow...... A2 VOLUME 11, NUMBER 36 Puzzles Classifieds Stone Creek...... A3 WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 29, Page A9 Page A10 Fairfield Village...... A10 2017 Ocala Palms...... A11

McCall takes reins as School Board chair Beth McCall, the newest member of the That’s when Stacy cast her vote for Angie Board in 2010 and again in 2014. Marion County School Board, now serves Boynton. She represents district four, including as the board chair for the next year. Board Marion County voters elected McCall to seven schools and the Student Services de- members unanimously elected her. the board last year. Her election as chair partment. Electing a vice chair, however, proved to also marks her first-year anniversary as a Other members of the Marion County be more difficult. Board members tied School Board member. School Board include Nancy Stacy (dis- when it came to whether Angie Boynton or McCall represents district two, including trict one), Bobby James (district three), Kelly King should sit in the number two 10 schools in Southeast Marion County. and Kelly King (district five). spot. The vice-chair tie was prompted by As chair, she will lead twice-monthly By unanimous vote, board members also Board Member Nancy Stacy’s absence School Board meetings and year-round approved the same meeting schedule as in from the annual reorganization meeting. work sessions and serve on various leader- years past – holding board meetings on the Board members tabled electing a vice ship boards throughout the community. second and fourth Tuesdays monthly at chair until the next night’s board meeting. Boynton was first elected to the School 5:30 p.m. at 512 SE Third St. in Ocala. Beth McCall AAA: Oil hits 2-year high; upward pressure evident on gas prices Look for a bounce back week for gas daily settlement since June 2015. WTI prices, which have declined for the rose nearly $4 last week; an increase past two weeks. Prices at the pump that would often result in a 10 cent in- should increase this week, as a high crease at the pump. stakes OPEC meeting draws near. “When oil prices rise, it becomes Florida gas prices averaged $2.46 per more expensive to produce gasoline,” gallon, on Sunday. The state average is said Mark Jenkins, spokesman, AAA - 3 cents less than a week ago, yet re- The Auto Club Group. “Prices at the mains 46 cents higher than this time pump are poised for an increase of 3-5 last year. cents, based on current fundamentals. • The most expensive gas price aver- However, the oil and gasoline markets ages in Florida are in West Palm Beach- are likely to be volatile this week, and Boca Raton ($2.58), Miami ($2.56), and prices could face additional upward Homosassa Springs ($2.54) pressure as we creep closer to the • The least expensive gas price aver- OPEC meeting.” ages in Florida are in Pensacola ($2.37), Jacksonville ($2.40), and Pensacola Highs and Lows of 2017 ($2.37) • National: the highest average price Representatives of OPEC, Russia, for gasoline was $2.67 on September 8; and other oil producing countries will the lowest was $2.23 on July 5. meet on Thursday to decide whether to • Florida: the highest average price extend an agreement to reduce oil pro- in was $2.73 on September 9; the lowest duction levels by 1.8 million barrels per was $2.13 on July 17. day. The current agreement expires at • Georgia: the highest average price the end of Q1 2018. Preliminary reports PHOTO BY PRISCILLA BARNETT was $2.76 on September 12; the lowest are that the agreement could extend was $2.08 on July 5. through the end of 2018. News of the • Tennessee: the highest average Fairfield Village Thanksgiving potential extension helped crude oil price was $2.60 on September 10; the reach $59.95 per barrel - the highest lowest was $1.99 on July 5. The Tom Turkey who showed up in Fairfield Village managed to survive un- scathed during Thanksgiving 2017. See column on Page A10. First Friday Art Walk is this week Navy vet honored throughout Ocala downtown area On the morning of Friday, Nov. 17, The First Friday Art Walk returns to Additional art activities will be avail- more than 20 friends and neighbors downtown Ocala Friday, Dec. 1 from 6 able at Ocala Homes and Farms Realty of Ellie and Donald Dunne, Lot #240, to 9 p.m. and will include the following located at 108 E. Fort King St. Sweetwater Oaks, gathered in their special performances and activities: The First Friday Art Walk occurs home to hear a representative from • 6 to 9 p.m. – from 6 to 9 p.m. on the first Friday of the Veteran’s Administration present Live music by Macey Mac on the each month from September through Donald with a pin and a certificate main event stage located at the down- May annually. Located within Ocala’s commemorating his service in the town square near the gazebo. historic downtown, event festivities in- United States Navy. Donald entered Macey is a 13-year-old artist who clude over 30 artist displays, live enter- the Navy in 1956 and served aboard channels a unique combination of Lee- tainment, free family art activities and the cruiser, USS Macon. Ann Rimes, Janis Joplin and Aretha extended shopping hours. Franklin. For more information, please contact • 7 and 8 p.m. – Enjoy modern fusion the City of Ocala Cultural Arts Division and gypsy-style belly dancing with at 352-629-8447 or [email protected] swords, hula hoops, fire props and fire or visit www.ocalafl.org/artwalk. breathing by Belly Artist Dance Studio. • Free hands-on art activities for all ages will be provided throughout the 'A Fight for Freedom: Attack on Fort King' this weekend event by the Appleton Museum of Art, Painting with a Twist, Marion County The City of Ocala Recreation and re-enactment of Chief Osceola’s attack perience time-period crafts, tradi- Public Library, Karate America Ocala, Parks Department will host ‘A Fight for on Fort King and the demise of Indian tional skills workshops, food, drinks Animis Foundation and the Discovery Freedom: Attack on Fort King’ Satur- Agent Wiley Thompson, an event that and games, such as tomahawk throw- Center. day, Dec. 2 and Sunday, Dec. 3 from 10 led to the start of the Second Seminole ing and horseshoes. Local artists will be working through- a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Fort King National War. The event will also include a Sem- “This year’s event is special because, out this event creating artwork, por- Historic Landmark located at 3925 E. inole village and soldier’s encamp- in addition to the re-enactment and traits and caricature drawings on-site. Ft. King St. ment to show what life was like back in This two-day event will include a the 1830s. Those in attendance will ex- See FORT on Page A4 A2 Wednesday, November 29, 2017 West Marion Messenger

Above, the crowd at the dinner/auction. At left, Afghan that was auctioned. Getting ready for the holiday season at Quail Meadow

he feasting of Thanksgiving is Braised Onion restaurant: please call assist in starting up this event, please over and now it’s time to get ready Grace Maguire to make reservations. contact Brian Maguire, or any of the Tfor Christmas and Hanukkah. Quail Meadow December 15th the Red Hot Fillies will QMPOA board members. The Clubhouse is decorated and ready be gathering at the Chefs of Napoli for Don’t forget to get your doggie pic- for the First Friday gathering. This Carolyn Slocumb lunch. If this isn’t enough to fill your tures ready to be displayed at the Janu- takes place this Friday, beginning at 7 calendars, I’m sure there are other ary party. This will be a “Year of the p.m. This is a “snack” party – in other events not mentioned here. Dog” party on Jan. 19th. More informa- words, bring snacks to share, and of Many residents have expressed their tion about this event will be in the Re- course BYOB. Poppi (R Music 4 You) disappointment in the absence of Bingo porter and in this article in a few will provide music for dancing/listen- letier. I’m sure the one who received it at the Clubhouse. If you would like to weeks. ing pleasure. Invite a neighbor and recognized all the many hours it took to come join us for this end of the year make. A big thank you to Linda for this party. great donation. All money from the auc- The Thanksgiving dinner and auction will be used for activities that are tion was attended by 70 residents and enjoyed by all QM residents. guests. Chef Charles did an excellent The December calendar is beginning job with the turkey and all the trim- to look full! It begins on the 1st with the mings. I don’t think anyone went home party. On Thursday the 7th, at 6 p.m. the hungry. The auction got very interest- QMPOA Annual Meeting is scheduled ing when Stan Elliot and his grandson – this is for all QM homeowners. Food got into a bidding war over one pack- will be provided, so you don’t have to age! Stan finally won out, but he gave eat before coming to the meeting. This the package to his grandson. The final meeting is when many important items item to be auctioned was a beautiful (board members, budget, etc.) are voted handmade crocheted queen size on to be accepted or rejected. Decem- spread made by our own Linda Pel- ber 8th is the Ladies Luncheon at the

Ocala chapter of Hadassah reinstated

The Florida Central Region of Ha- VP Membership: Michele Garelick dassah announces with pride the rein- VP Fundraising: Margo Young statement of the Ocala Chapter of Teresa McCabe, Roz Shapiro, Sandra Hadassah. The newly formed group Shafkowitz, Julie Sachs will meet on the first Monday of the Programming: Connie Lundy month at 10 a.m. at Bank of the Ozarks, Ethel Delman 8375 SW Highway 200. The next meeting will take place on Dec. 4. Attendees New and former members of Hadas- take the elevator to the left as you enter sah are cordially invited to join and the building to the second floor and are support our worthy causes. For further asked to park in the back as not to dis- information, contact: turb bank business. Judi Siegal: 352-237-8277, morro- The following officers have come for- [email protected] or Michele ward to lead the group: Garelick: 352-854-0725, myshell7174@ President: Judi Siegal gmail.com West Marion Messenger Wednesday, November 29, 2017 A3

PALS Club at Stone Creek Stone Creek t the recent Veter- such care - many of these chelson, Erin Willhite, Patricia Gizzi ans Day Celebra- dogs return home with Barbara Wright, Al & Ation, members of severe PTSD, or may not Maureen ‘Mo’ Cox, Gary the PALS Club did the be suitable for immedi- and Joyce Shoemaker serving. Their presence ate adoption. Sometimes, and Bob and Linda made the evening a more if they are not adoptable, Fiorella. plain how WW 1 ended tingly, my father was bur- enjoyable one for the vet- they are slated for eutha- Linda Fiorella gave a on the 11th hour - of the ied three days later with erans. Clubs working to- nasia. The Warrior Dog short story of being a 11th day- of the 11th a military salute on No- gether on projects or Foundation steps in to proud wife to Bob, US month when they signed vember 11th. When I helping one another save these dogs. With Navy Vietnam era vet. the Armistice Papers, looked at my watch, it makes for community proper training, social- Her brother was a Ko- ending WW1. To him, it was the 11th Hour – of the spirit. ization and care, some rean vet, her godson was would always be Armi- 11th Day – of the 11th Linda Fiorella, presi- are adoptable into good a vet from the first Gulf stice Day, even when they month. I don’t know how dent of PALS club gave homes. Those that are War and two brothers changed the holiday here he did it, but somehow, I an introduction on how not adopted are provided were WW11 vets. Her fa- in the US to Veterans Day believe he did. That was the PALS club (Pets and with lifetime care at the ther, a newly arrived im- in the 60’s. 45 years ago.” With emo- Animal Lovers of Stone Warrior Dog Founda- migrant from Italy, Years later, when he tion in her voice, Linda Linda’s Dad ‘Pop’ in Creek) was helping the tion’s kennel facility. The served in WW1. He was diagnosed with can- said it was a privilege to World War 1. Veterans. The Veterans dogs are cared for and joined the US Army to cer, Linda said, “It was be among so many veter- Club gave a donation to treated like heroes, fight for his new adopted early November, and my ans. She showed pictures org. the PALS club for the which they are, for the country. He fought in the father once again re- of her dad and some of Linda would like the warrior dog project. rest of their lives. trenches of France and minded me that in a few the heroic dogs who Stone Creek Community PALS will be donating to 19 PALS volunteers was legally blinded from days, it would be Novem- served our military today to know of their upcom- the Warrior Dog Founda- helped to serve dinner. mustard gas. He became ber 11. I said. “Yes Pop, I and over the years. Thus, ing event on January 20, tion, which supports re- They were Diana Fister, a disabled vet. Linda re- know, it’s Veterans Day, the donation from the 2018. It will be the 1st An- tired war dogs with Michael Short, Doris members from an early which is really Armistice Veterans Club for the nual Furball with an ele- lifelong care, rehabilita- Gamelin and Rod Bro- age, her father’s teaching Day.” That turned to be PALS service will help gant dinner and dancing tion, and socialization ker, Charles and Gloria of the meeting of Veter- our last conversation, for these dogs. To learn more to live music provided by for the rest of their lives. Salvaggio, Sue Kennedy, ans Day. She said, each he passed the next night, about this organization Pure Magic, Stone Creek’s The donation will help Sue Labine, Sue Roth, year as Nov 11th ap- Election Night, 1972. or to donate, you can go own band. So mark your this organization provide Laura Mueller, Di Mi- proached he would ex- Linda goes on to say, “Fit- to warriordogfoundation. calendars.

Poor as I am, all I can give is thanks Out to Pastor Rev. James Snyder t was a pre-Thanksgiving evening and the Gracious members of our family and what they like to get at Mistress of the Parsonage and I were enjoying Christmas time. On my part, I cannot come up with all Isome hot cider tea. Nothing goes down quite as the members of our family without asking questions nice as a hot cider tea. to someone across the room. I recognize them when I It was rather a quiet evening and I happened to see them, but I always forget one or two when I’m try- I know that around the table will be a variety of glance over at my wife and saw her staring into space ing to think about the family. family members. as it were. It concerned me because I knew that’s That is the difference between my wife and me. She I know that some of them will be very chatty about what she did when she was thinking about something. can keep a list of the family in her head for months, what’s going on in their life. The problem that faced me was simply this. Was yea even years and know exactly what they would like I will smile and nod most generously, but my focus she thinking about me or something else? If it’s me, for Christmas and even for their birthday. I don’t even is on Tom the Turkey. I’m probably in trouble. If it’s something else, I’m know their birthdays and have to be reminded by my As my muse took me a little bit further down mem- probably in trouble. No matter which side of the wife. ory lane, I began to see and appreciate the difference fence I’m on, I’m in trouble. Here we were, just a few days away from Thanks- between Thanksgiving and Christmas. I know they I was tempted to ignore the situation and continue giving and the wife is thinking about Christmas. are about a month apart, but there’s a bigger differ- the silent evening but something inside me would not It seems to me that there is a reason why Thanksgiv- ence than days when it comes to Thanksgiving and let me sit still. I don’t know what it is about us hus- ing comes before Christmas. Thanksgiving is a time Christmas. bands, we don’t know when to shut up and we don’t that we give thanks sometimes for the turkey in front Christmas is when you spend a whole lot of money know when to speak up. If only we could do the oppo- of us. Sometimes, for the turkey in the family, if you buying Christmas presents for everybody in your fam- site of what we’re thinking at the time, we probably know what I mean. ily even those that, well, how can I say it, is not on could get along much better with the opposite side of I said very cautiously to my wife, “Just relax and your nice list. the fence. enjoy the evening and wait until after Thanksgiving to Thanksgiving is quite different. Once I get beyond “What are you,” I asked her quite simply, “thinking work on your Christmas list.” the turkey, I begin to realize that the purpose of about so strongly?” She came down out of her staring across the room Thanksgiving is simply to give thanks. Continuing to stare into space, she was silent for a and began staring at me one of those stares that I’ve Christmas costs a lot, especially out of my wallet, few moments and then she said, “I’m trying to figure experienced so many times in life. “I must,” she said but Thanksgiving costs more but in a different cur- out what gifts we should get for our family.” most dramatically, “try to figure out what I’m going to rency. Say what? I haven’t even demolished the Thanks- get my family for Christmas.” giving turkey yet and she’s thinking about Christmas I flashed a smile back at her and cuddled up to the See PASTOR on Page A5 gifts. silence for a few more moments. That is the way with my wife. She cannot let a day One thing I can say about her, she is very generous go by without thinking of something three weeks or when it comes to giving, especially at Christmas time. two months down the road. She cannot sit still and As for me, my focus is on Thanksgiving. It’s coming enjoy the moment. up very shortly and when it does, I want to be ready to I, on the other side of the fence, am able to sit down enjoy every bit of that Thanksgiving dinner. The West Marion Messenger is a free community newspaper and enjoy this silence of the moment. I do not have covering news of communities west of Ocala, including Fore the jitters to get up and do something. I have the calm, Ranch, Stone Creek, Fairfield Village, Ocala Palms, Timberwood, relaxing feeling of just sitting and enjoying the mo- Falls of Ocala, Quail Meadow, Foxwood Farms, Golden Hills ment. I knew what was going through her mind; all of the Postmaster: Entered as Third Class Matter at the post office in Ocala, Fla. 34477.

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Manager - John Murphy (352) 563-6363 Deadline for news: Thursday the week before publication

Member of the Community Papers of Florida I want to get news Deadline for in the Messenger Advertising Call Editor Jim Clark at 352-854-3986 or e-mail Classified Reader [email protected] ads Community news and photos must be received by Thursday the week before 2 p.m. Friday publication. All contributions are subject to editing for clarity, taste and Display Ads style. 5 p.m. Thursday A4 Wednesday, November 29, 2017 West Marion Messenger Happenings

For info call: 352-854-2872. tongue, Friday. Dec. 1 There will be delicious homemade cookies. turkey or veggie wrap sandwich. (353.307-3662 or Car show and chicken barbecue Grab a bag and select your own from many kinds [email protected]) for the season! Car Show and chicken varbecue dinner will take Come and browse new items this year! Tuesday, Dec. 12 place at Ocala West United Methodist Church, Friday, Dec. 1 from 5 to 7 p.m. Ocala 200 Lions Club Flea Market Christian Women’s Connection Luncheon The car show will be in the parking lot next to the pavilion. The Men’s Fellowship will be offering The Ocala 200 Lions Club will be holding a Flea Ocala Christian Women’s Connection invites you to chicken barbecue to eat in or take out prices: $8 for Market Dec. 9 from 8: a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Bank of the the lovely “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas” 1/2 chicken dinner with baked beans, coleslaw, and Ozarks - 8375 SW Highway 200, Ocala. There will be Luncheon Dec. 12, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at The Hil- roll, $6 for ½ chicken only or ¼ chicken dinner. Boy a variety of vendors on hand as well as food available ton Of Ocala Ballroom. Doors will open at 11 a.m. Scout Troop 707 sponsored by OWUMC will be selling for sale. You are invited to join us for our fundraising The Special Feature is “Deb’s Adornments” Jew- hot dogs with chips and a drink for $ 4. event and flea market before the holidays. elry and Clothing. Guest Speaker is Ellen Gee from Ocala West UMC, 9330 SW 105th St., Ocala (352) 854- As always, all proceeds generated by the Lions Orlando sharing how “Love Wins.” Admission is $20. 9550. Club will be used for community projects throughout Please RSVP for lunch and free child care to Claudia the year. The Ocala 200 Lions Club is still collecting 228-2126 or Eve 732-7053 by Dec. 6. Saturday, Dec. 2 used eyeglasses and hearing aids and this is a great time to drop them off. For more information call: 352- Thursday, Dec. 14 Chess Club to meet 861-2730. Rainbow Springs Garden auction The Freedom Library Chess Club will meet from 10 Sunday, Dec. 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 2. The library is lo- The Rainbow Springs Garden Club will host its an- cated at 5870 SW 95th St., Ocala. Christmas concert nual Chinese Auction on Thursday, Dec. 14 from 1-3 All players are welcome! Call 873-2276 for informa- p.m. at the Masonic Lodge 136, 20751 Powell Road, tion. The On Top of the World Concert Chorus will pres- Dunnellon. ent an encore performance of their winter concert Admission is $15 and includes 25 auction tickets, entitled “All-American Christmas” on Sunday, Dec. 10 door prizes, and finger foods. Additional auction tick- Sunday, Dec. 3 at 3 p.m. at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, 5200 SW ets are available in cards of 25 for $10. Themed bas- German American Club College Road. This concert will include a collection kets, including home, garden, foods, pets, jewelry, of Christmas songs all by American composers. This books, and holiday themes, will be awarded to win- The German American Club of Marion County will is a free concert but a good will offering will be col- ning ticket holders. hold a Christmas dinner dance on Sunday, Dec. 3, at lected. Proceeds from this, our only fundraiser will benefit noon at Marion Oaks Community Center. A ham din- This concert is open to the community and all are select local charities. The public is invited to this fun- ner will be served at 1 p.m. Music will be provided by welcome to attend. For information contact 352-854- filled afternoon of holiday camaraderie, music, and Europa Band. Formal attire is requested. Tickets are 8718. refreshments. $20 per member or $25 per non-member and may be purchased by calling Mary Wisecup at (352) 789-6499. Chamber Music ‘Encore’ Sunday, Dec. 17 For this year’s special “ENCORE” programming, Jazz Society to perform Thursday, Dec. 7 The Marion Chamber Music Society welcomes back Toast to the Arts Dr. Ben Pila, classical guitarist, in concert at Queen The Ocala Jazz Society invites you to join them on of Peace Catholic Church, 6455 SW SR 200, Sunday, Sunday, Dec. 17, from 2 to 5 p.m. for their monthly The Ocala Art Group is proud to present it’s annual Dec. 10, at 3 p.m. performance of Swing, Big Band, Dixieland, 50’s and “A Toast to the Arts” - the art gala of the season, Dec. Last year, Ben proved an extremely popular artist, all your favorites. 7, from 5 to 8 p.m. Artists from Ocala and around the and many audience members asked that he be re- We look forward to seeing you at the smoke free state of Florida will be showing their best artistic turned. This year’s program will feature spiritu- VFW Post 4781, 9401 SW 110th St., across from Oak works as they seek recognition and awards for Best of al-based holiday favorites, among other outstanding Run. Show, 1st, 2nd and 3rd places, three honorable men- classical guitar works. The band performs on the third Sunday of each tions, a People’s Choice Award and cash rewards. Marion Chamber Music Society concerts: Always month. Due to renovations at the Appleton Museum, the “A Exceptional, Always Free. For more information, A $3 donation for Hospice is appreciated. info: 352- Toast to the Arts” gala event will be held in the large visit our web: www.marionchambermusic.com or call 237-0234, [email protected] conference room in the Marion County Main Library, 352 867-1340. 2720 Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala. The public is encouraged to attend and support these talented artists. Chanukah luncheon The artwork will remain on display for 30 days. For more information, please contact Jim Hunter, Congregation Beth Israel of Ocala and Temple President, at [email protected] or Rose Maerkl, Beth Darom will hold a joint Chanukah luncheon and webmaster at [email protected]. party on Sunday, Dec. 10 at noon at Candler Commu- nity Center at On Top of the World. The program will feature a catered box lunch by Saturday, Dec. 9 Too Jays as well as Chanukah festivities including First Congregational Cookie Walk door prizes, games, raffles, and seasonal songs led by Rabbi Karen Allen and congregant Judi Siegal. The The annual Holiday Cookie Walk at First Congrega- cost of the luncheon is $18 and reservations must by tional Church, UCC Ocala, 7171 SW Highway 200, will made by Dec. 3 to Sonia Peterson. Please contact br Saturday, Dec. 9 from 10 a.m. to noon. Sonia for choice of either pastrami, corned beef, FORT Continued from Page A1 history festival, we will nue on the north side of will be available at the also have the grand open- E Fort King Street, ap- Fort will be for handi- ing of the newly recon- proximately a quar- capped or disabled structed Fort King,” said ter-mile east of the Fort. guests only. Keifer Calkins, Outdoor/ A shuttle will be running For more information, Historic Resource Pro- continuously throughout please contact the City of gram Coordinator. “This the event for pick-ups Ocala Recreation and re-enactment, as well as and drop-offs. Parks Department at 352- the entire mission of the The only parking that 368-5533. park, is to explain and in- terpret the very complex history of the Seminole Wars in Florida. We en- courage residents and visitors to come and learn about our local and state history and share the important history of Fort King and the birthplace of Ocala.” Admission to this event is $5 per person. Veter- ans, active military and children ages five and under are free. Guests are encouraged to park at the Duke En- ergy power line field located between NE 43rd Avenue and NE 44th Ave- West Marion Messenger Wednesday, November 29, 2017 A5 services. Joy Lutheran Church is at 7045 SW 83rd Place at SR 200, Ocala. COMMENTARY For more information call (352) 854- Religion 4509 ext. 2. Southwest Christian Crossroads Church Distancing himself from Trump Come on in and see what God has to We have some very new and exciting offer you through Southwest Christian ministries starting up for the Winter. BY RICH LOWRY aside, the Virginia race revealed a Church. The Single Point Ministry (for sin- Special to the Citizen problem with the Trumpism-with- Sunday 9:30 a.m. Sunday school gles) will be planning a Christmas car- out-Trump construct -- namely, that it’s classes for children and adults. 10:30 oling event the 2nd Friday in December Ed Gillespie went from potential vin- not really possible. a.m. morning worship service. 6 p.m. (12/08) at TimberRidge Rehabilitation dicator of Trumpism to “cuckservative” First, it’s not going to be convincing evening worship service. & Nursing Center, with hot cocoa or in the space of a couple of hours. to Trump-haters. Ed Gillespie is not the We have a staffed nursery available coffee and dessert served in Cross- The Virginia Republican, campaign- slightest bit Trumpy. He is earnest, during the worship service. roads’ Youth Center afterwards. (Julian ing for governor in a treacherous polit- wonky and friendly. When he distanced We offer the following studies & Jean Scott) ical environment defined by an himself from Trump, it was credible be- throughout the week: Our Seniors Ministry will be held on unpopular president of his own party, cause he hadn’t been close to Trump to Monday-Women’s Bible study at 10:30 Saturday, Dec. 16 at noon. This will be ran the only race he reasonably could. begin with. He had never met him, and a.m. a pot luck dinner with a Christmas He distanced himself from Donald all of Trump’s support on Twitter was Thursday-Girl Scouts 6 p.m. theme. Please invite your friends for Trump personally, hoping to lessen his unsolicited. Tuesday AA from 5 to 7 p.m. Ev- fun, food and fellowship. losses in heavily Democratic Northern None of this made the slightest dif- ery-3rd Tuesday of the month (Septem- Sunday, Dec. 17 will be our Christmas Virginia, while hitting some Trumpian ference to voters in Northern Virginia, ber-June) Christian Women’s Celebration with a choir and our Cross- notes on crime and immigration to ap- where Northam racked up margins big- Fellowship at 10 a.m. roads Kids to bring us into the Christ- peal to the president’s base. ger than Hillary Clinton and Barack Wednesday-7 p.m. we offer 3 differ- mas season. Gillespie looked to be gaining fast on Obama. These people weren’t showing ent adult Bible studies. Our regularly scheduled services on Democrat Ralph Northam. Former up to send a message to Gillespie, the You do not need to be a member to Wednesday, Dec. 27 and Thursday, Dec. Trump adviser Steve Bannon, the otherwise unthreatening candidate attend any of our Bible studies or ser- 28 will be cancelled for the Christmas self-declared keeper of the Trumpist who happened to run a barrage of neg- vices. Visitors are always welcome at holidays. flame, believed Gillespie had cracked ative ads against Northam (not the first Southwest. Men’s Breakfast, normally scheduled the code by fashioning a “Trumpism time this has happened in electoral Christmas program Saturday and for the 1st Saturday of the month, will without Trump.” politics). They were showing up to send Sunday, Dec. 16 and 17 at 6 p.m. be cancelled for December. At least that was the party line until a message to Trump, whom they be- Southwest Christian Church exists to Women’s Ministry, normally sched- Gillespie lost on Nov. 7. Then he believe is a clear and present danger to equip Christians with a mind that uled for the 1st Saturday of the month, came an establishment tool who had all that they hold dear. knows the word of God, a heart that will be cancelled for December. betrayed Trumpism and the president. seeks the character of God, hands that We have Craft Classes (knitting & cro- The hypocrisy of the Bannon faction See LOWRY on Page A7 do the work of God and feet that share cheting) every Monday, from 2 to 4 p.m. the grace of God. Southwest Christian Mondays – Monday Night Bible Study Church, 9045 SW 60th Ave. (south off at 6:30. Topic – “The Trinity” SR 200) 352-861-9080. Tuesdays – Intercessory Prayer Meeting at 9 a.m. Joy Lutheran Church Wednesdays, Thursdays & Saturdays – we have Nursing Home ministry at The new church year begins on Ad- multiple agencies. vent Sunday, Dec. 3. Advent is the time Wednesdays – Family Training Hour of expectant waiting and preparation at 7 p.m. This includes Crossroads for the celebration of the Nativity of Kids, Crossroads Nursery & Cross- Jesus at Christmas. The term is a ver- roads Youth Ministries. sion of the Latin word “coming.” Thursdays – Our Spanish “Estudio During Advent there will be the usual Biblico” at 7 p.m. Sunday worship services of 8:15 a.m. Sunday Services – Sunday School, and 11 a.m. The service and sermons 8:30 a.m.; Worship Services at 9 a.m., 11 will have the message within the theme a.m. and our Spanish Service at 1 p.m. of “Moving Toward the Manager.” Nursery Ministry provided for all ser- On Wednesday each week there will vices. be a brief 2 p.m. service without com- Crossroads Church, 8070 SW 60th munion. We will continue our Wednes- Ave. (south off of SR 200) 352-291-2080. day evening casual service at 6:45 p.m. See our new website at www. service with communion. ourcrossroads.church for up to date All are welcome to attend the Advent calendar events.

PASTOR Continued from Page A3 For Christmas, I have to name, O Most High” God Fellowship, 1471 Pine work out a budget and I’m (Psalm 92:1). Road, Ocala, FL 34472. He always, or should I say my No matter how much lives with his wife in Silver wife is always over bud- coin I have in my pocket, Springs Shores. Call him get. giving thanks is the rich- at 352-687-4240 or e-mail However, Thanksgiving est thing I could possibly [email protected]. is different. Thanksgiving give. The church web site is is giving thanks and that Dr. James L. Snyder is www.whatafellowship. has no monetary value on pastor of the Family of com. it at all. Giving thanks is a good thing as David points out, “It is a good thing to give thanks unto the Lord, and to sing praises unto thy A6 Wednesday, November 29, 2017 West Marion Messenger West Marion Messenger Wednesday, November 29, 2017 A7

gregation and guests who LOWRY McSwain marks 10 years come from other churches Continued from Page A5 to engage in lively discus- The First Congregational United Church of Christ sions on Bible, ethics, of Ocala celebrated 10 years of leadership with Rev. world religions and other So as a sheer political matter, there can be no such Dr. H. W. McSwain, Senior Pastor. pertinent topics using thing as Trumpism without Trump, or Anti-Trumpism On Nov. 12, members of First Congregational UCC books/videos. The em- without Trump, or Anything Else without Trump. Ocala were joined by Herb Katz and other members phasis is very much on It is difficult enough for a candidate to run away of Temple Beth Shalom for a celebratory service. academic integrity to fos- from a conventional president of his own party; it is Members of Central Florida Master Choir joined the ter and promote critical going be even harder with a president who dominates Chancel Choir, directed by Dr. Cory Alexander, who thinking. the media to an extent no other president has, and Hal McSwain and Cory also sang a solo. Hal consistently en- courts -- nay, enjoys -- radioactive controversies. Alexander. During the service Rev. Dr. Dana Knapp, Moderator courages the member- In theory, Trumpism without Trump is the right di- of the Church Council, reflected on the “essence of ship to remember their thoughtfulness, some- rection for the GOP. It should learn from his populist, Hal,” his unique ability as a Pastor and as a person to responsibilities as Chris- times laughter, or nationalistic appeal while avoiding its (and his) ex- critically look at himself and the Christian community tians to be ministering “amens” from certain cesses. as a whole. He repeatedly asks the question: “Why do beyond the church doors. quarters in the room, and In practice, Trump himself is going to loom all the Christians always think they have to exclude people Whether it’s providing challenges to the status larger in the party. to make themselves right? Do they think they have the food for the poor through quo. They may include a He is the main issue in American politics, and he truth and nobody else does?” Other religions and its mission activities or story from Hal’s past that may be the only Republican fit to weather the storm world thinkers offer a lot of wisdom that Hal draws relief for hurricane vic- makes the message more -- he has a proven ability to turn out his voters, he from and integrates in his teachings and Interfaith tims; or getting out to vote alive and relevant or just doesn’t have to win elections in nonpresidential activities. in national elections; gives a little more insight years, and his persona works for him, if not for anyone He consistently calls out injustice. A year after his speaking out when we see to the person Hal is be- else. If the worst comes and Republicans lose both installation, under leadership of a membership study or hear about social in- yond the title, The Rev. houses of Congress next year, task force, fully supported by Hal, the congregation justices; anytime we Dr. H.W. McSwain, Senior Trump’s importance will be further magnified as officially became an Open and Affirming church. Wel- could be doing some- Pastor. Whether he’s the only Republican standing between Democrats coming LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender) thing, Hal reminds us of preaching or teaching or and unified control of the federal government. persons into the full life, ministry and sacraments of our responsibility as sharing a cup of coffee, In that circumstance, Republican voters would the church (e.g. membership, leadership, employ- members of the United Hal is focused on the min- probably be much more willing to embrace Trump ment, marriage). The church now participates in the Church of Christ – with- istry of God’s love as it is without Trumpism, rather than the opposite. annual Ocala PrideFest and is a strong advocate of out hesitation. reflected through the LGBT rights. Week by week Hal pro- grace and justice of Jesus Rich Lowry is editor of the National Review. Hal has been instrumental in the Discussion vides the congregation Christ and our willing- Groups attended by interested members of the con- with sermons that evoke ness to share those truths. A8 Wednesday, November 29, 2017 West Marion Messenger

Our view Your letters

Flu shots Kill the bill, I read your commentary reading flu shots with interest because I too am someone who refuses to get them. My save the trees mother got them religiously starting in the mid 1970s and every year also ended up with flu-like symptoms afterward, hen a legislator introduces a such as you’re experiencing now. When statewide bill to address a I’d question her as to why, her reason Wlocal issue that piques him, was because if she does come in contact it is almost always bad legislation. with the bug and comes down with the Senate Bill 574, which would pre- flu, it won’t be as bad. That logic has vent local authorities from enacting never set well with me, so that is my or enforcing ordinances to protect reason for passing on the idea. To this trees, was introduced after a Sara- day I’ve never had the flu and I contrib- sota legislator was irked because he ute it all to using sanitary wipes on the had to get permits to clear a lot. It is handles of shopping carts at my local predictably bad legislation. grocery stores. If approved, this legislation would Now, I’d like to go one step further re- nullify tree ordinances statewide. As garding immunizations and bring up written, it would stop local authori- the Shingle shot. My husband got one two years ago ties from making rules regarding after debating on it for about a year. All tree trimming, tree removal or tree went fine for him, which was a godsend harvesting and give this authority to because you know how you men are the state. when you get ill. I’m sure your wife will The bill was introduced by state agree when I write, you’re not fun to be Sen. Greg Steube, who had to pull a around. He badgered me for a year to permit to clear a lot and then pay to get one also. I kept telling him no be- have the debris removed when he cause I’m not interested in putting un- built a three-car garage on his Sara- known serums into my body and I’ll sota property. deal with Shingles should I contact It appears that Steube is willing to them. From the time he was inoculated, use his position as a state senator to it seemed Terry Bradshaw was popping settle grudges regarding local issues. With college football, chaos rules up on the tv screen, looking at me Earlier this year, he introduced a bill straight in the eyes and telling me to t’s no secret that I’m a sports fan, to get the Legislature to put on the “Get the shot”. Between him, my hus- which is short for fanatic. I’ve writ- band and the people sitting with Terry, 2018 ballot a constitutional amend- Iten many times about my “Wait ‘til I felt as though I was surrounded by ment to limit local school board next year” philosophy of the Mets. Jim Clark “You must get the Shingle Shot” people, members to two terms. There are a couple of other things to Editor so one day I couldn’t take them scream- This was apparently introduced know: First, I follow college football ing at me anymore and I caved. because he wanted to replace mod- and basketball closely and I’m a Notre We happened to be shopping at Winn- erate Sarasota school board mem- Dame football fan and a Florida Dixie and I found the courage to do it. I bers with more conservative ones. Gator basketball fan (it’s complicated); asked the Pharmacist all the pertinent Many local jurisdictions have local second, I don’t like the NCAA football Wisconsin is unbeaten. What do you do questions. Will I need a booster, are ordinances designed to protect the playoff system; and third, I love chaos. with the Knights? there any side effects and if so what are tree canopy. The playoff systerm has a four-team Of course, I’d like to plug my team, they. He said I wouldn’t need a booster, These contribute to both the aes- playoff for the title. However the NCAA but no three-loss team has ever been there are minimal side effects but only thetics of the town, and to the preser- lists five so-called power conferences, considered. Notre Dame plays the affect 1% of the population (sounds like vation of local wooded areas that are meaning that at least one champion toughest schedule -- ther are no UABs, the flu shot percentage, doesn’t it?). He home to a variety of wildlife. will be left out. Troys or Mercers like there are on some also said in his 18 years of giving the This year, you have Georgia vs. Au- of the title teams. The three Irish losses A state law forbidding local offi- shot out, he’d never known of anyone burn in the SEC; Wisconsin vs. Ohio are to Georgia, Miami and Stanford, all having side effects to which I replied, cials from enforcing these ordi- State in the Big 10; Oklahoma vs. TCU of whom are in conference finals. “You’ve never known me. If there’s a nances is an extreme example of in the Big 12; Miami vs. Clemson in the So who gets in? I’ll be rooting for the side effect, I’ll get it”. overreach by state officials interject- ACC and Stanford vs. USC in the Pac 12. lower-ranked team in each case, and for I got the shot at about 3 in the after- ing themselves into local issues. Of those games, I’d throw out the Pac 12 UCF. I want to see the selection commit- noon and around 10 that evening, my This is why officials in many towns winner, and the other four winners tee squirm a little. left upper arm where the injection took with tree ordinances, such as Jack- would advance. Of course, this could all be solved if place blew up as though a bunch of bees sonville and Tallahassee, have gone But wait! Sitting in the wings is Ala- there were an eight-team playoff in- had lunch on me. I shot a dagger-type on record opposing this legislation, bama, which lost only one game, to Au- stead of four. Eight is good enough for stare at my husband who quickly turned as have more than 1,000 Friends of burn, all year and was at the top most of Division 3, Division 2, Division 1-AA his eyes to the tv. (It’s a good thing Brad- Florida, a statewide nonprofit that the season. That team is probably bet- and the NAIA. Why not in Division 1? shaw’s commercial wasn’t on at the monitors land management and ter than most of the teams in the title But the NCAA has bowed to television time because I wanted a piece of him other environmental issues. games. Does it get in and someone else and stuck with four. And now they’ve too). Getting irritated by having to file gets eliminated? boxed themselves into a corner. I grabbed an ice pack from the freezer for a tree removal permit is a poor I’ll throw in another team: Central Did I mention I love chaos? and headed to the bathroom in order to Florida. If UCF beats Memphis in the rummage through all cabinets to see basis for making a law that affects American Conference game, UCF will Jim Clark is the editor of the West Mar- what I had that could possibly help with the ability of localities across the be undefeated. Of the list above, only ion Messenger and South Marion Citizen. the now plum-size, rock hard, burning state to regulate tree removal. This is lump that had developed. I’ve always bad legislation introduced for the had good luck with Coconut Oil so that wrong reason. It needs to die a quiet was my topical of choice. Between the death. Oil to keep the skin supple as it ex- Citrus County Chronicle panded and the ice to keep the swelling down, the redness at bay and pain away, I was able to keep things under control. Come bedtime I couldn’t sleep in a normal position because the arm had to be elevated. Therefore, I wrapped it loosely with an Ace Bandage and in order to keep it from coming off during the night, I cut one of my husbands favorite socks in half (part of his punishment) and used the upper part as a sleeve. I damn sure wasn’t cutting one of mine. Three to four days later all was back to normal. But that’s not all. See LETTERS on Page A11 West Marion Messenger Wednesday, November 29, 2017 A9

ARIES (March 21 to April 19) You’ve let yourself be distracted from what’s really important. But love finally gets your attention this week. How- ever, it comes with a chal- lenge that could create a problem. TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) Be careful not to bully others into following your lead. Best advice: Persuade, don’t push, and you’ll get the cooperation you need to move forward with your plans. GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) Resist the urge to gloat now that you’ve proved your detractors wrong. Instead, charm them back into your cir- cle. Remember: A former foe can become your best ally. CANCER (June 21 to July 22) You might want to claim all the credit for making this holiday season special. But is it worth producing a lot of hurt feelings by rejecting offers of help? Think about it. LEO (July 23 to Aug. 22) Ignore a co-worker’s questionable behavior. Instead, put your energy into making your own project special. Then sit back and purr over your well-deserved applause. VIRGO (Aug. 23 to Sept. 22) You might not want to accept those suggested changes in your work- place. But don’t chuck them out before you check them out. You could be happily sur- prised. LIBRA (Sept. 23 to Oct. 22) Your holiday planning might have to take a back seat for a bit so that you can handle a problem with a friend or family member. Your schedule resumes by the 9th. SCORPIO (Oct. 23 to Nov. 21) Relationships in general benefit during the early part of the week, including in the work- place. Also expect some overdue changes in a per- sonal situation. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22 to Dec. 21) “Prudence” should be your watch- word this week. Best not to be too open about some of the things that are cur- rently happening in your life. CAPRICORN (Dec. 22 to Jan. 19) Money is on your mind, so you’d best mind how you’re spending it. Take another look at that holiday budget and see where you can make ad- justments. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20 to Feb. 18) Resolving to re- vive an old friendship could open some old wounds. Are you sure you want to risk that? Think this through before making a commitment. PISCES (Feb. 19 to March 20) Your need to know more about a new friend could lead to some startling revelations. Best advice: Keep an open mind about what you learn until all the facts are in. A10 Wednesday, November 29, 2017 West Marion Messenger Thanksgiving is about traditions; tell the writer about yours I’m sure that basic traditions are universal for most ternoon when we would gather again at Mamaw and American families even if they are manifested in Dandy’s large home to open these gifts together. very different ways. The Thanksgiving holiday is “the Fairfield Village Does your family have special holiday traditions? favorite holiday” for most of my immediate family. Over the next couple of weeks I will be soliciting Back when we were all living in the Rome, Georgia, Priscilla Barnett input from our Fairfield Village neighbors to write area, Thanksgiving was a very big deal even to the about these special family times to share among our- youngest children. We gathered at my parents’ 47 selves. acre homeplace, ate fantastic food, watched football, If I do not see you personally, please call or text me played games, chased children around outside at 352-414-8945 or e-mail me at priscillabarnett27@ (weather permitting), ate more delicious food, and homes. gmail.com with your contribution to our shared fam- then practiced the Morris family tradition we all ea- But for all of us, on Thanksgiving, it was about the ily fun holiday traditions. gerly.anticipated. The traditional drawing of names secrecy.of the names drawn by each of us. There was Let’s enjoy each other’s special fun or unique for our family’s Christmas gift exchange. usually a very reasonable monetary limit on the price memories this 2017 Blessed Holiday Season. It was never really about the gifts...it was about the of the gifts, so the actual value was in the thought put Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas from the “anticipation” of the event that would happen in the into the exactly right gift for the family member “lively and lovely” Fairfield Village community. late afternoon on Christmas day once each family whose name we each had drawn. had celebrated individually at their respective The anticipation would build toward Christmas af- Editor's note: See photo on Page A1. West Marion Messenger Wednesday, November 29, 2017 A11 Red Hat Fillies The Nov. 16 weather was just perfect for the Red Hat Fillies of Ocala Palms to have their luncheon held outdoors. The luncheon was held at The Grille at Stone Creek and hosted by Linda Schlueter. Everyone enjoyed the tasty food and the festive Thanksgiving theme. Photos by Cathy Donohue

Some of the ladies in attendance were Dianne Hig- gins and Nancy Jensen. More photos on Page A12

Carol Yount and Kathy Gustafson, standing, and Cathy Donohue and Carol Bergstoll. Marie Roser and Dianna Hayford seated. LETTERS Continued from Page A8

About a month and a Get well soon, years while serving in litely refuse it. Neither half after that ordeal, I Dana Kaczmarek the U.S. Army. Back then, one of us has ever caught was taking a shower and Ocala I had no choice. Once I a cold or the flu. Thank while drying off I felt a bit left the military, you God. of a pain on my right butt More on flu shots couldn’t pay me to get a God bless you and cheek. I look forward to read- flu shot. Neither does my thanks for your commen- My husband doesn’t ing your commentary wife and our physician tary. have the capability to de- every week and have brings it up every year Happy Thanksgiving. scribe things properly to since I moved to Marion when we make our check Martin Burgos me so I grabbed my cam- County in 2015. I took a up during the month of Ocala era, walked into the living flu shot every year for 21 December. But we po- Carol Pellett and Judy Duby. room, handed it to him, bent over and told him to take a picture for me. That caused question marks to float above his head until I told him why. I then uploaded the photo into the computer and there it was, a Shingle pox. Another one of my dagger-type looks went to him which caused him to leave the room in a hurry. It took 3-4 days of rubbing Coconut Oil on it for the thing to go away. To this day I’m happy to report there’s never been another breakout. My husband doesn’t have the capability to de- scribe things properly to me so I grabbed my cam- era, walked into the living room, handed it to him, bent over and told him to take a picture for me. That caused question marks to float above his head until I told him why. I then uploaded the photo into the computer and there it was, a Shingle pox. Another one of my dagger-type looks went to him which caused him to leave the room in a hurry. It took 3-4 days of rubbing Coconut Oil on it for the thing to go away. To this day I’m happy to report there’s never been another breakout. I know my experience wasn’t with the flu shot, but I did want you and your readers to know that with any inoculation, side effects do exist no matter how small the percentage. Also as a side note, the Shingle shot is NOT a guaranteed one-shot deal. A person can still get Shingles but as my mother said about the flu shot, “It just won’t be as bad as if you didn’t have the shot”. A12 Wednesday, November 29, 2017 West Marion Messenger More Ocala Palms photos

Linda Schlueter and Diane Peterson. Nancy Myron and Angie Fischetti.