Ocala Post (Ocala News) - Archive

Dont Tread On Me flag making waves in Ocala

Ocala Post

-

September 11, 2014

Dont Tread On Me flag making waves in Ocala

Gadsden flag, dont tread on me, ocala news, ocala city council, — Gadsden flag

Ocala, Florida — Keith Greenberg, the owner of Gear Barrel, recently relocated to Ocala, Florida from Chicago. He opened his business within the city limits in May of 2014.

He said he recently received a notice of violation from the City of Ocala regarding the iconic Gadsden flag he displayed outside his business. The Gadsden flag is a historical American flag. The flag is named after American general and statesman Christopher Gadsden; it was designed in 1775.

Greenberg said he was threatened with fines if he doesn’t remove the flag, which he refused to do at first; however, he has since moved the flag to the window of his shop because he said he cannot afford the fines.

Greenberg said the Rutherford Institute, a civil liberties organization in Charlottesville, Virginia, is representing him.

According to Greenberg, the city originally told him the content of the flag was the issue, but when confronted by his attorney, the city denied the allegations. Instead, they stated that the flag is not considered an American flag and contributed to sign clutter and it violated the city ordinance.

Greenberg said he is not trying to make trouble, but he will not tolerate his rights being violated. He also said he moved to Florida from Chicago because his rights were being “stomped” on. He said he did not expect this in “freedom loving Florida.”

The public has been in an outrage, in favor of Greenberg, since he posted a video about the situation online.

Many citizens have contacted the City of Ocala, which prompted city leaders to release the following statement:

“City code provides for equal and equitable opportunities for business-related advertising. As it relates to signage at a commercial property, the code regulates the number, size, type, location, and composition of signage, regardless of content. Regulating content of signage is a gray area that the code does not specifically address.

Per section 110-3, “Definitions, ‘Flag’,” the code allows the display of the official flag of the United States and the official flag of the state of Florida on commercial property, as many as desired and for as long as desired, without a permit. Section 110-6(7) details the types of flags that are exempt from the permit.

Temporary signage, including outside pennants, banners, balloons, flags or streamers, may be erected in specified zones of the city pursuant to section 110-161, for purposes of advertising grand openings, special sales and other temporary events. The sign in question is allowed as temporary signage. Temporary signage is allowed through a permitting process. The cost of a temporary sign permit is $39.00 ($35.00 to the city, $4.00 to the state).

This particular business owner was in violation of section 110-131 for the number of signs erected at the business location. No fines were assessed. The business owner was advised on multiple occasions of how compliance could be achieved. The methods of compliance include purchasing a temporary sign permit, moving the sign to the interior of the business (no permit necessary), or removing the sign altogether. The business owner chose to remove the sign as the method of compliance.

In response to the other businesses flying flags that do not comply with the same ordinance, the City of Ocala Code Enforcement is working diligently to address these violations. The aforementioned business owner’s situation is not isolated. We currently have 33 other business owners who have also received notices of violation for the same reason. Some of these businesses have not yet complied with the notices of violation. If they continue noncompliance, they are subject to fines.”

The question has been raised about other businesses in the area flying Italian and Irish flags. The city claims they, too, are charged a permit fee. However, Ocala Post found three businesses, of which do not wish to be identified, flying the Irish flag within the city limits. Those businesses told Ocala Post they have never paid a permit fee.

Because of the media attention this situation has attracted, the city is now planning to amend the current ordinance.

Thieves stole more than $15,000 in smartphones

Local News

Ocala Post

-

September 10, 2014

0

Thieves stole more than $15,000 in smartphones

ocala news, smartphones, — Do you recognize these thieves?

Ocala, Florida — According to Marion County Sheriff’s Office Spokeswoman, Valerie Strong, four (4) black females walked into the Radio Shack on SW 93rd Court and stole 26 smartphones valued at more than $15,000.

Three of the women distracted the employees while the fourth woman snatched the keys of the counter and entered a secured area where the phones were being kept.

One of the employees notice the keys and phones were missing after the woman left the store.

If you have any information on their identities, please call 352- 732-9111, or you can phone anonymous tips to Crime Stoppers of Marion County at 368-STOP or 368-7867. Text tips to 274637 using keyword 368STOP. Tips can also be submitted at www.ocalacrimestoppers.com.

Teens lead officers on high speed chase after stealing cars

Local News

Ocala Post

-

September 10, 2014

0

Teens lead officers on high speed chase after stealing cars

Ocala, Florida — (Official Press Release) On today’s date, September 10, 2014, at approximately 3:55 a.m., an employee of Auto Dealers Exchange, 1205 NW 27th Avenue, reported someone had just stolen two cars; a silver, 2012 Nissan Altima and a gray 2012 Audi A6, both without vehicle tags.

Both cars were last seen fleeing southbound on NW 27th Avenue. Sergeant Eades, along with a number of officers in the immediate area, observed the cars at a Kangaroo Station located at the northwest corner of SW 20th Street and 27th Avenue.

When the subjects noticed Sgt. Eades, they quickly jumped into the two cars and sped off.

A pursuit ensued in which both stolen cars stayed together traveling north along SR 200 to NE 1st Avenue, then east along Silver Springs Boulevard. Motorcycle Officer Dan Wright was positioned at East SR 40 and NE 36th Avenue, prepared to deploy the “stop sticks.” As the pursuit approached 36th Avenue, the subjects turned in to the parking lot of Publix located at the Forty East Shopping Plaza — just prior to reaching the intersection. A black male jumped from the driver’s seat of the Nissan vehicle and fled on foot. Officer Jimmy Pitman quickly captured and identified Carlos Davis, 15. Two other suspects ran from the car and escaped capture.

The second vehicle – the Audi A6 – continued east through the parking lot and then north onto NE 36th Avenue where Officer Wright had repositioned himself with the “stop sticks,” which were successfully deployed, causing all four (4) of the Audi’s tires to deflate. The vehicle continued north on 36th Avenue to the area of Booster Stadium, 2900 NE 36th Avenue, when the driver lost control, causing the vehicle to leave the road and roll over. Officer Pablo Morales approached the vehicle as a black male exited and ran into the woods along the east side of the roadway. Officer Morales gave chase but lost sight of the subject. A perimeter was quickly established utilizing both OPD officers and deputies from the Marion County Sherriff’s Office (MCSO). The Air Unit and K-9 Units from MCSO also assisted in trying to locate the suspect. Unfortunately, the track and search failed to locate the male.

Additionally, while an officer was en route to Auto Dealer’s Exchange to speak with the victim, it was discovered that a third vehicle had been stolen from the lot; a green 2005 Chrysler 300. However, the subjects abandoned the car — after fleeing from Sgt. Eades at the Kangaroo on SW 20th Street —and the vehicle was recovered at the pumps with the gas hose still in the gas tank.

Also, while conducting the search for the suspect in the woods, a call came in at approximately 5:36 a.m. from a man named Ronnie Watkins. Watkins had stopped at the BP Fuel Station, 938 SE 17th Street, to refuel his mother’s 2001 maroon Hyundai. He left the vehicle running while he went into the store to pay and returned to find the vehicle was gone. He indicated the car was “on fumes.” The clerk reported that a teenage black male had been sitting on the curb at the front door when he opened the store. The teenager, who was next to a bicycle, asked to use the phone to call a friend in Orlando to pick him up, and then asked for money. He was denied both requests. A short time later, Officer Jared Forsyth located the Hyundai at 3708 SW College Road, where it was found to be out of gas. The suspect was not present and the car was processed and returned to the owner. It is believed that the suspect who stole this car (the teen next to the bike) was one of the suspects who ran from the Nissan vehicle at the Forty East Shopping Plaza.

Detectives are continuing to work on identifying the other suspects, of which there appear to be at least three. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Ocala Police Department at 352-369-7000 or through our mobile app, MyPD where anonymous tips can be made. Or tips can be submitted through Crime Stoppers of Marion County at 352-368-STOP (7867), www.ocalacrimestoppers.com or by texting keyword 368STOP to 274637.

College football rankings week 3

Ocala Post

-

September 10, 2014

0

College football had its first top 10 match-up of the year last week as former No. 7 Michigan State played former No. 3 Oregon. Oregon finished the game on a 28-0 run to win 46-27.

Oregon earned the No. 2 spot this week in the rankings after the win while Michigan State dropped down to No. 13.

The biggest fall of the week is Ohio State falling 14 spots to the No. 22 rank now. Ohio State suffered a huge blow to their championship hopes as they were upset by Virginia Tech 35-21. After the impressive win, Virginia Tech went from being unranked to being ranked No. 17.

Another notable jump was Notre Dame moving up 5 spots to No.11.

Florida State still remains the No.1 team in the country while Oregon, Alabama, Oklahoma, and Auburn round out the top five.

Full rankings below (overall record in parentheses)

Florida State (2-0)
Oregon (2-0)
Alabama (2-0)
Oklahoma (2-0)
Auburn (2-0)
Georgia (1-0)
Texas A&M (2-0)
Baylor (2-0)
USC (2-0)
LSU (2-0)
Notre Dame (2-0)
UCLA (2-0)
Michigan State (1-1)
Ole Miss (2-0)
Stanford (1-1)
Arizona State (2-0)
Virginia Tech (2-0)
Wisconsin (1-1)
Kansas State (2-0)
Missouri (2-0)
Louisville (2-0)
Ohio State (1-1)
Clemson (1-1)
South Carolina (1-1)
BYU (2-0)

Five busted for marijuana grow houses in Ocala

Local News

Ocala Post

-

September 10, 2014

2

Five busted for marijuana grow houses in Ocala

Ocala, Florida — At approximately 6:15 a.m., on September 9, 2014, the Unified Drug Enforcement Strike Team, SWAT teams from the Marion County Sheriff’s Office and Ocala Police Department, the MCSO Tactical Investigations and Fugitive Apprehension Units, and the MCSO Air Unit simultaneously executed three (3) search warrants on suspected marijuana grow houses.

The first location – 751 SE 160th Street resulted in the seizure of 274 marijuana plants, one (1) Mazda pickup truck and the arrest of Orlando Rodriguez, 63 for Cultivation of Marijuana and other assorted charges.

The second location – 1723 SE 160th Street resulted in the seizure of 25 marijuana plants and the arrests of Ana M. Gonzalez, 29, and Maria M. Gonzalez, 51, for Cultivation of Marijuana and other assorted charges.

The third location – 13431 SW 111th Street resulted in the seizure of 45 marijuana plants, approximately three (3) pounds of processed marijuana, two (2) firearms and the arrests of Justo Rodriguez, 66, and Norma Miranda-Hernandez, 63, for Cultivation of Marijuana and other assorted charges.

According to the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, all parties arrested are non-U.S. citizens. They made their way into South Florida from Cuba, then to Ocala where they began their grow operation.

Happy Hearts Preschool 5K and Kids 1/2 mile Fun Run

Ocala Post

-

September 9, 2014

0

Happy Hearts Preschool 5K and Kids 1/2 mile Fun Run

ocala news, happy hearts, marion county — Happy Hearts 5K and Kids 1/2 mile Fun Run

Ocala, Florida — Happy Hearts Preschool is excited to host the 2nd annual Happy Hearts 5K and Kids 1/2 mile Fun Run on September 20, 2014. The Fun Run is free to children 17 and under.

5K registration is $30 and all proceeds will be used to purchase supplies and materials for Happy Hearts School.

If you wish to purchase a child’s t-shirt, a $5 donation is appreciated. Please include the size of the child’s t-shirt in your registration.

The 5K run will begin at 7:30 a.m. and the 1/2 mile at 8:45 a.m.

For more information and directions visit Happy Hearts 5K and Kids 1/2 mile Fun Run.

Marion County government official belittles veteran for PTSD

Ocala Post

-

September 9, 2014

0

Marion County government official belittles veteran for PTSD

Ocala, Florida — Post-traumatic stress disorder is a serious condition that can be very debilitating and even result in the death of the individual afflicted. This condition not only disproportionally affects soldiers, but also firefighters, paramedics, EMTs, and law enforcement officers.

Marcel “Butch” Verrando, who currently serves the citizens of Marion County as a member of the Fire Advisory Board (appointment by Commissioner Stan McClain) and a former candidate for Marion County Commissioner, attacked a U.S. military firefighter veteran and former volunteer firefighter for Marion County Fire Rescue for suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) on an online forum.

On Aug. 12, 2014, at 1:55 p.m., Verrando created a post on Marion County Political Forum, moderated by community activist Stan Hanson via Facebook, beginning with, “We have another Union sell out.”

U.S. military veteran (worked for the military in providing fire and EMS to troops in Iraq) Samuel J. Matychak III responded to the thread talking about his support for a candidate because of their “mutual stance on public safety.” Verrando responded on Aug. 12 at 4:32 p.m. with, “Hey at least I’m not crazy!”

Verrando added after some discussion on Aug 15 at 7:43 p.m., “Mr Matychak, I need not even attempt to answer your alogations [sic] as you were barely making sense (again), is your lithium supply getting low?”

Matychak responded with, “Also Butch Verrando, you need to stop the attacks on my mental health because you are totally out of place. I am not a damn mental case and I am not on lithium. I dislike people who thinks [sic] they know it all. I will make it clear again, I served this Country from 2005 to 2010 in Iraq. Yes, I have PTSD. So, before you throw out accusation [sic], you better have the facts first or you will get burned.”

Verrando, at 8:12 p.m., stated, “Matychak I don’t ‘need’ to do anything…,” further adding at 8:14 p.m., “Gee Sam how could you have PTSD for being a civilian none combatant over there? Maybe too much time at the fire house [sic]?”

At 8:41 p.m., Verrando questioned how Matychak could receive such a diagnosis asking, “…so what major trama did Sam witness? That caused him to develop PTSD [sic]?”

Matychak did what no veteran should have to do by detailing in part what his job was in the military and what he saw.

“Butch, I saw death, such military personnel burned in their vehicles to blown body parts, having prisoners of war throwing pee and crap at me, to having a 8 year old Iraqi girl died on me to the CSH (Combat Support Hospital), getting shot at, having a vehicle blow up, and much more. My job was Combat Firefighter/Medic [sic].”

James Hoyne at 9:13 p.m. added an anonymous comment from a veteran who served with Matychak. “I would tread lightly before I embarrass you on your little political hi horse thread. I served with Sam in Iraq and I was there when windows were blown out, mortars exploding all around us, doors blown shut, and the military calling frantically for the fire dept to come assist in the middle of a fire fight that was the largest since falluja. I was there with Sam so I can deff vouch for him. You sir don’t have a clue, and quite frankly I don’t even know how you are involved in politics. Don’t question his PTSD because I have it as well [sic].”

In a statement Ocala Post received, Ryan O’Reilly, Secretary of Professional Firefighters of Marion County said, “Individuals who serve their country and those who volunteer to serve their communities as firefighters, should never have to face ridicule or condemnation for the wounds they receive whether physical or emotional.”

“I refuse to believe these abhorrent statements made by Fire Advisory Board member Marcel “Butch” Verrando represent the values of this community. Veterans and first responders should never be marginalized nor mocked for the medical conditions that arise from their service to this country and their communities,” said O’Reilly.

O’Reilly went on to say, “We believe that Mr. Verrando should be immediately removed from his position on the Fire Advisory Board as a person whose beliefs do not accurately reflect those of the citizens of Marion County. His actions and behavior are unacceptable and should not be tolerated. Service men and women, as well as first responders, who are afflicted with medical conditions, should be treated with the respect and dignity they deserve.”

“Moreover, Mr. Verrando’s intolerant comments regarding genuine medical conditions that may affect first responders proves that he is not fit to act in any capacity that would have an influence on the working conditions of first responders.”

—By Wade O’Neil—

Marcel “Butch” Verrando — Submitted conversation

Screenshot submitted on September 9, 2014.

FASD: Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder

Ocala Post

-

September 8, 2014

0

Tallahassee, Florida – The Florida Department of Health acknowledges that September 9, 2014, is recognized as International Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Awareness Day. FASDs are a group of conditions that can cause birth defects and developmental disabilities in a baby whose mother drank alcohol during pregnancy. Pregnant women — and women who are considering becoming pregnant — should abstain from alcohol consumption to eliminate alcohol-exposed pregnancies and FASDs.

“Moms have important opportunities to improve the health of their babies before and during pregnancy,” said Deputy Secretary for Health and Deputy State Health Officer for Children’s Medical Services, Celeste Philip. “These steps include scheduling regular prenatal visits with a health care professional, maintaining a healthy weight, taking a prenatal vitamin, not smoking, and avoiding alcohol during pregnancy.”

It is important to know that there is no safe amount or type of alcohol to consume during pregnancy, and any woman is at risk of having a child with an FASD if she drinks alcohol during pregnancy. Alcohol consumption can affect an expectant mother even before she realizes she is pregnant, and unplanned pregnancies pose one of the greatest challenges to preventing FASD. Women who drink early during their pregnancy and stop once they realize they are pregnant are still at risk. Women who are pregnant or planning a pregnancy should make sure they talk with their health care provider about strategies for avoiding alcohol consumption during pregnancy.

There is no cure for FASDs, but research shows that early intervention treatment services can improve a child’s development. The Department of Health offers several preventive health services such as Family Planning to both males and female, including teens, in all of Florida’s 67 counties. Family Planning includes programs such as Healthy Start, which assist pregnant women, interconceptional women, infants, and children up to age three obtain the health care and social support needed to reduce the risks for poor maternal and child health. Healthy Start also offers prenatal and Infant Risk Screening, which may help detect FASD.

Other programs include the Florida Center for Early Childhood, which offers screening and diagnostic services for families in need. They can be reached at (800) 587-1385 or via the web: http://www.thefloridacenter.org/FASD.php.

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Facts

Alcohol use during pregnancy can cause birth defects and developmental disabilities collectively known as Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASDs).
Signs of FASD can be either physical such as poor coordination or intellectual such as poor memory.
There is no guaranteed safe level of alcohol use at any time during pregnancy or when trying to get pregnant. All kinds of alcohol should be avoided, including red or white wine, beer, and liquor.
Alcohol can cause problems for a developing baby throughout pregnancy, including before a woman knows she is pregnant.
According to the 2011 Florida Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring Survey (PRAMS), 8% of mothers reported alcohol use during pregnancy.

Please visit www.FLHealth125.gov for more information.

Ocala native could be named U.S. Army Europe’s Best Warrior

Ocala Post

-

September 8, 2014

0

ocala news, world news, army — PV2 BENJAMIN RANEW, DA photo

Wiesbaden, Germany – An Ocala native will compete to be named U.S. Army Europe’s Best Warrior for 2014.

Pvt. Benjamin Ranew, a rifleman with Company B, 1st Battalion, 4th Infantry Regiment, is among 29 top U.S. Army Europe (USAREUR) Soldiers, Noncommissioned Officers (NCO), and officers who will compete in the USAREUR Best Warrior Competition at Grafenwoehr, Germany, September 14 – 19.

The six-day event takes place at USAREUR’s Joint Multinational Training Command facilities in Grafenwoehr, Germany, and challenges competitors to complete a series of approximately 20 tasks and missions. Competition events are designed to test each warrior’s knowledge, physical and battlefield skills in hands-on and situational testing, and oral and written examinations.

Those events include a day and night land navigation exercise, an obstacle course, a physical fitness test, a hand-to-hand combat tournament, a battlefield medical scenario, and other physical activities. Soldiers and officers also participate in a simulated media interview, write an essay, take a written examination, and demonstrate their military knowledge and bearing for a board of sergeants major.

Ranew said he’s proud to represent his platoon and company “Reckless Platoon” and “Blackfoot Company” of the 1st Battalion, 4th Infantry, in the competition.

“I would not be moving on to the USAREUR level without their support and guidance,” Ranew said.

“While I have not yet earned the title of ‘Best Warrior,'” he added, “I believe I embody the necessary skills, attributes, and refuse-to-fail attitude that every soldier, and the Best Warrior, should possess.”

Ranew and his fellow competitors were previously selected as best warriors in local competitions at their units across Europe. The enlisted soldier event here takes place alongside similar events to select USAREUR’s top non-commissioned officer and junior officer.

Winners in each competition category at the USAREUR level go on to compete at the Department of the Army level, October 6–10 at Fort Lee, Va.

Florida Department of Corrections: If employees break the law… they will be fired

Florida

Ocala Post

-

September 8, 2014

1

Florida Department of Corrections: If employees break the law… they will be fired

Tallahassee, Florida – On Friday, Florida Department of Corrections Secretary, Mike Crews, released a memo to all employees that outlined the Department’s revised disciplinary policies. Amending this employee discipline policy was one of several reforms announced by Secretary Crews last month.

Full Statement:

I expect everyone to do what is right and I have restated my commitment to hold the staff that choose not to meet our expectations accountable for their wrongdoing. As we reviewed case files and penalties for improper acts, it became clear to me that we have not been applying a uniform standard by which to hold ourselves accountable. The lack of consistent consequences for the same crime has the potential of undermining the culture of professionalism that is necessary for running institutions with integrity.

As members of the Florida Department of Corrections, you are responsible for the care, custody, and control of inmates as well as for the supervision of offenders who have been criminally sentenced by the courts of this state. Given that tremendous responsibility and the public trust associated with it, it is vital that each of you conduct yourselves on-duty and off-duty in a manner that commands respect and is consistent with the Department’s values. Effective immediately, any member whose conduct violates any criminal statute will be placed on administrative leave and the Department will initiate disciplinary action for dismissal.

While the Department has always taken disciplinary action against members whose conduct violated state statutes, this new policy will apply a uniform standard of dismissal for members who engage in any criminal act, including misdemeanors. Violations of Department rules and procedures will continue to be disciplined as provided by Chapter 33-208 Florida Administrative Code. In accordance with Section 110.227 Florida Statutes, affected employees shall be given an opportunity to appear before the delegated disciplinary authority to answer orally and in writing the charges against him or her prior to final action being taken. Delegated disciplinary authorities that deviate from the Department standard are required to provide written justification to the Deputy Secretary or Chief of Staff.

While any criminal conduct will result in disciplinary action of dismissal, examples of criminal conduct include:

 Section 944.35 Florida Statutes

Inmate abuse
Failing to report inmate abuse
Inaccurate, incomplete, untruthful reports
Coercion or threats
Sexual misconduct

 Section 944.36 Florida Statutes

Permitting an inmate to escape

 Section 944.37 Florida Statutes

Acceptance of unauthorized compensation from inmates or offenders

 Section 944.47 Florida Statutes

Introduction of any controlled substance
Introduction of a firearm, weapon, on any explosive device
Introduction of portable communication device (cell phone)
Introduction of any intoxicating beverage
Introduction of food, clothing, recorded communication, or currency intended for an Inmate

 Possession of a controlled substance

 Driving under the influence

 Battery

 Domestic Violence

 Theft

###

Secretary Crews said, “This is another step toward increasing accountability and transparency at the Department. Our employees should exhibit the highest standards of professionalism and integrity on the job, in the community, and at their homes, but if they break the law, they will be held accountable. This policy will keep those who break the law from putting the uniform back on the next day. I have made it clear that I will not allow the bad actions of a few to tarnish the reputations of all the hard working men and women in our Department. I have said it before, and I will say it again – our Department should be held to the highest standards, and I have zero tolerance for anything else.”

Crews also said the agency would hand over 82 open investigations into prison deaths — all of which are the result of non-natural causes — to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.

“Releasable information regarding inmate deaths, including cases that are still under investigation, will be online within the next 30 days,” said Crews.

Stolen semi located in Ocala

Local News

Ocala Post

-

September 8, 2014

0

ocala news. marion county — Wheels and tires missing from stolen semi.

Ocala, Florida — A semi-truck, which was stolen from Maudlin International Saturday night, was found on Sunday, September 7, 2014, at NW 38th Avenue and NW 11th Street, sitting on plywood and blocks.

According to the Ocala Police Department, the thieves broke the window to gain entry and then ripped out the ignition.

Also missing from the truck was the cab refrigerator and CB antenna.

Jeremy Lamm, general manager for Maudlin International, told police that the fence on the north side of the property had been cut and the parking lot gate had been taken apart and removed from the tracks.

The tractor-trailer was towed back to Maudlin International by Revis Towing.

Taken was ten 22.5-inch polished aluminum wheels, two front steer tires, one refrigerator, and one antenna all valued at $119,650.00 with damages estimated at $12,000.

If you have any information about this case, you are asked to contact the Ocala Police Department by calling 352-369-7000; by contacting Crime Stoppers of Marion County at 352-368-STOP (7867), www.ocalacrimestoppers.com; or by texting tips to 274637 using keyword 368STOP. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through the OPD mobile app, MYPD, which can be downloaded on Apple and Android devices.

Florida Gators get their first win of the season

Ocala Post

-

September 6, 2014

0

Florida Gators 2014 — Florida Gators get their first win of the season.

The Florida Gators were able to get their first win of the season by beating Eastern Michigan 65-0. The Gators were also able to end their seven game losing streak with this win, the team’s first in 11 months.

The Gators finished the day with a grand total of 655 yards and 27 first downs.

Quarterback Jeff Driskel look good in his first game back from a broken leg, as he passed for 248 yards and a touchdown.

The Gators’ 65 points were the highest ever by the team in Will Muschamps’ 4 years with the team.

The Gators look to improve on their winning ways next week at home against Kentucky.

Scoring Summary:

Velez 33 yard field goal (FLA 3 EMU 0) 6:44 remaining in 1^st quarter

Taylor 31 yard run for a touchdown (FLA 10 EMU 0) 6:00 remaining in 1^st quarter

Jones 40 yard run for a touchdown (FLA 17 EMU 0) 4:48 remaining in 1^st quarter

Powell 12 yard run for a touchdown (FLA 24 EMU 0) 13:49 remaining in 2^nd quarter

Velez 36 yard field goal (FLA 27 EMU 0) 6:30 remaining in 2^ndquarter

Velez 29 yard field goal (FLA 30 EMU 0) 0:13 remaining in 2^nd quarter

Driskel 4 yard pass to Jones for a touchdown (FLA 37 EMU 0) 9:18 remaining in 3^rd quarter

Taylor 6 yard run for a touchdown (FLA 44 EMU 0) 3:33 remaining in 3^rd quarter

Dawson intercepts Bolden’s pass, returned 36 yards for a touchdown (FLA 51 EMU 0) 2:51 remaining in 3^rd quarter

Harris 70 yard pass to Robinson for a touchdown (FLA 58 EMU 0) 14:47 remaining in 4^th quarter

Harris 78 yard pass to Herndon for a touchdown (FLA 65 EMU 0) 12:08 remaining in 4^th quarter

High school scoreboard week 2

Ocala Post

-

September 6, 2014

0

UPDATE: Runaway Forest High School girl located

Local News

Ocala Post

-

September 5, 2014

0

kristie Stafford, ocala news, missing forest high school girl — Kristie Michelle Stafford [Facebook]

Ocala, Florida — Kristie Michelle Stafford was located unharmed Friday night.

According to authorities, the girl was a runaway because she intentionally left home. The girl was never actually “missing.”

Authorities said runaways are neither considered missing or endangered and limited resources are used when locating runaway teens due to the frequency of occurrences in Marion County.

ORIGINAL ARTICLE

A BOLO (be on the lookout) has been issued for a 16-year-old Forest High School girl.

Kristie Michelle Stafford was last seen on Wednesday, September 3, 2014.

Her family reported her missing when she did not return home from school.

For reasons unknown at this time, Stafford has been classified as a runaway, but her family says running away would be out of character for her.

The manager of the Winn-Dixie where Stafford works said she stopped by to cash her check and seemed fine. Stafford was reportedly alone when she cashed her check.

Stafford drives a 2008 gray, two-door Honda Civic. VIN: 1HGCS12358A027738, the license plate number is unknown at this time.

Stafford is 5′ 5″, weighs approximately 160 pounds, wears glasses, and has brown hair.

If you have details about Kristie Stafford, please call the Marion County Sheriff’s Office at 352-732-9111 or Ocala Police at 352-369-7000. You can phone anonymous tips to Crime Stoppers of Marion County at 368-STOP or 368-7867. Text tips to 274637 using keyword 368STOP. Tips can also be submitted at www.ocalacrimestoppers.com.

Information needed involving shooting of a 10-year-old

Florida

Ocala Post

-

September 5, 2014

0

Information needed involving shooting of a 10-year-old

Jeremiah Taylor, sanford, florida, ocala — Jeremiah Taylor

Daquan Butts, sanford, ocala news — WANTED: Daquan Butts

Sanford, Florida — Sanford Police are asking for the assistance of the community to locate Daquan Butts, aka Bobo, age 21, who shot ten-year-old Jeremiah Taylor on the evening of September 4, 2014.

At approximately 7:38 p.m., multiple 911 calls came in reporting a shooting near the intersection of W. 13^th Place and Oleander. A verbal argument between two men escalated into a gun fight. One of the men involved in the argument was shot in the buttocks and transported to Orlando Regional Medical Center for treatment. A ten-year-old boy riding his bicycle was shot in the abdomen.

Taylor was airlifted to Winnie Palmer Hospital where he underwent surgery. The child is a student at Idyllwilde Elementary School.

“Daquan Butts demonstrated a reckless disregard for human life when he pulled out a firearm and randomly shot, injuring an innocent child. The community should be outraged by such careless disregard for life,” Chief Cecil Smith said.

Through witness statements, Daquan Butts was identified as the shooter.

Butts may have ties to other areas in Florida.

Taylor is recovering in ICU.

He is believed to be traveling in an unknown vehicle. If you see Daquan please call 911, he is considered armed and dangerous. Anyone with information can call Crimeline at 800 423-TIPS (8477) or visit www.crimeline.org. Calls made to Crimeline remain anonymous, and tips to Crimeline, which leads to solving a felony case, are eligible for a cash reward of up to 1,000 dollars.

Two arrested after teen was jumped and beaten

Ocala Post

-

September 5, 2014

0

Two arrested after teen was jumped and beaten

ocala news, deadbeat parents, drugs — Alexis Coffey [left] and William Sumner

Ocala, Florida — An Ocala woman was released from jail yesterday after she was arrested for having her ex-boyfriend “beat up.”

The victim stated that his former girlfriend, Alexis Coffey, 19, invited him to spend time with her. The victim told sheriff’s deputies that he reluctantly accepted her invitation.

According to reports, the victim met Coffey at the BP gas station located at 3300 SE 52nd Street. A short time later the pair began walking south on SE 33 Court and then east on SE 56th Street, talking along the way.

The victim told deputies that when they turned around to head back, six to seven males jumped out from behind some bushes and attacked him.

The suspects punched and kicked the victim until he fell to the ground while Coffey stood laughing.

The suspect(s) stole the victim’s shoes as well as his bicycle that he had borrowed from a friend.

According to reports, Coffey continued to laugh as she walked away with the group of men that attacked the victim.

Deputies believe Coffey’s sole intention behind inviting the victim out was to have him ambushed.

Coffey later sent the victim a text asking him if he was OK. The victim did not respond to that text.

During questioning, Coffey denied being a participant in the ambush. She stated that she was in fear of her life.

Coffey refused to cooperate further with law enforcement.

According to reports, the ambush was over a drug debt that was owed to a second suspect William Sumner, 19. Sumner is a low-level marijuana dealer.

Sumner also refused to cooperate with law enforcement.

Coffey is dating Sumner and they have a child together.

Coffey and Sumner were arrested and charged with Felony Robbery without a Firearm.

Sumner remains behind bars at this time.

Deputy arrested for DUI

Ocala Post

-

September 5, 2014

0

This morning, September 5, 2014, at approximately 1:31 a.m., Deputy Esau Bright located a black, 2014 Toyota pickup stopped on the sidewalk/bike path at the 9100 block of West Newberry Road.

Deputy Bright observed the driver leaning out of the driver’s side vomiting.

When he approached the vehicle, he noticed a strong odor of alcohol emitting from the driver.

Deputy Bright recognized the driver as fellow Sheriff’s Office Deputy William F. Williams IV. Bright also observed the suspect take the keys from his pants pocket and throw them into the bed of the truck.

Deputy Bright notified his supervisor who responded to the location to assist with the investigation. The Florida Highway Patrol was also notified and responded to the location to impartially investigate the incident.

Based upon the investigation conducted by the Florida Highway Patrol, Deputy William Williams IV was arrested for DUI at approximately 2:32 a.m. and transported to the Alachua County Jail.

The Alachua County Sheriff’s Office of Professional Standards will now begin an internal investigation into Deputy Williams’ arrest.

The investigation will run parallel with the criminal case.

Sheriff Sadie Darnell has placed Deputy Williams on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigations.

Williams’ photo was not released to Ocala Post.

Setting the record straight on Managed Medical Assistance

Florida

Ocala Post

-

September 5, 2014

0

Setting the record straight on Managed Medical Assistance

ocala news, AHCA, Managed Medical Assistance — Managed Medical Assistance

Recently, the Florida Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) contacted Ocala Post in regards to an article that was distributed to multiple media outlets via the Associated Press (AP).

The AHCA said they want to set the record straight on the misleading article and provide the public with actual facts, not propaganda.

Here are some important facts to know about the Managed Medical Assistance (MMA) Rollout.

There are no co-payments in Medicaid for children who are fully eligible for Medicaid, and most MMA plans have waived co-payments for fully eligible adults. The $40 copayment described in the AP story is not consistent with full Medicaid coverage. It is consistent with Obamacare coverage and/or private health insurance (such as through an employer). Again, there are no co-payments for fully Medicaid eligible children.

•The Agency has worked extensively with providers and the health plans to ensure that recipients experience no disruption in care. ◦The plans must honor prescheduled appointments for ongoing care for up to 60 days after transition and must pay the enrollee’s provider at the previous rate they were receiving for the enrollee’s care for at least 30 days after transition. Plans must pay the provider for services rendered even if the patient’s provider is not under contract with the plan.

◦Based on the Agency’s knowledge, it has been rare for a provider to refuse to provide services during the continuity of care period, as described in the AP story. Nevertheless, a provider may choose to cancel appointments despite the fact that the Agency has guaranteed continuity of care payments.
◦The Agency has communicated extensively to providers, advocates and other interested parties regarding this continuity of care period through provider alerts, provider webinars, presentation to various advocacy and provider groups, and through numerous press releases.

•Any recipients who are required under the SMMC program to enroll in an MMA plan for Medicaid services would have received three letters prior to the plan enrollment taking effect (a pre-welcome letter, a welcome packet with information on available plans, and a reminder letter) letting them know they should select a health plan to provide all Medicaid services, and if they do not, they will be assigned to the plan listed in the letter. If the recipient wants the plan that is listed in their letter, no action on their part is necessary. ◦Medicaid recipients began receiving these letters almost four months before the date of their enrollment into a plan. The letters encourage them to contact our Choice Counselor by Internet or by phone to make a plan choice, if they were not happy with the health plan that they have been assigned.

◦Whenever available, the Agency assigned recipients to a health plan with which they had a prior relationship.
◦In addition, after enrollment occurs, recipients, including parents of children, have 90 days to choose a different plan if they are not happy with their current plan for any reason.

•Transportation to Medicaid covered services is a required benefit and the plans will provide transportation at no additional cost to recipients.

•The Agency has not received any complaints that we can identify from the providers/recipients mentioned in the AP article. Complaints of the nature described would have been responded to within 24 hours. Complaints can be entered via the Agency’s issue hub. Recipients and providers can also contact their local Medicaid field office by phone to report issues and receive assistance.

•The Agency has held numerous public meetings and done extensive outreach regarding the Managed Medical Assistance (MMA) program.

For more information visit http://ahca.myflorida.com/.

Hydrocodone moves from a schedule III to schedule II

US News

Ocala Post

-

September 5, 2014

0

Hydrocodone moves from a schedule III to schedule II

Washington –On Friday the U. S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) will publish in the Federal Register the Final Rule moving hydrocodone combination products (HCPs) from Schedule III to the more-restrictive Schedule II, as recommended by the Assistant Secretary for Health of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and as supported by the DEA’s own evaluation of relevant data. This Final Rule imposes the regulatory controls and sanctions applicable to Schedule II substances on those who handle or propose to handle HCPs.

It goes into effect in 45 days.

The Controlled Substances Act (CSA) places substances with accepted medical uses into one of four schedules, with the substances with the highest potential for harm and abuse being placed in Schedule II, and substances with progressively less potential for harm and abuse being placed in Schedules III through V. (Schedule I is reserved for those controlled substances with no currently accepted medical use and lack of accepted safety for use.) HCPs are drugs that contain both hydrocodone, which by itself is a Schedule II drug, and specified amounts of other substances, such as acetaminophen or aspirin.

“Almost seven million Americans abuse controlled-substance prescription medications, including opioid painkillers, resulting in more deaths from prescription drug overdoses than auto accidents,” said DEA Administrator Michele Leonhart, “Today’s action recognizes that these products are some of the most addictive and potentially dangerous prescription medications available.”

When Congress passed the CSA in 1970, it placed HCPs in Schedule III even though it had placed hydrocodone itself in Schedule II. The current analysis of HCPs by HHS and the DEA shows they have a high potential for abuse, and abuse may lead to severe psychological or physical dependence. Adding nonnarcotic substances like acetaminophen to hydrocodone does not diminish its abuse potential. The many findings by the DEA and HHS and the data that support these findings are presented in detail in the Final Rule on the website. Data and surveys from multiple federal and non-federal agencies show the extent of abuse of HCPs. For example, Monitoring the Future surveys of 8th, 10th, and 12th graders from 2002 to 2011 found that twice as many high school seniors used Vicodin®, an HCP, nonmedically as used OxyContin®, a Schedule II substance, which is more tightly controlled.

In general, substances placed under the control of the CSA since it was passed by Congress in 1970 are scheduled or rescheduled by the DEA, as required by the CSA and its implementing regulations, found in Title 21 of the Code of Federal Regulations. Scheduling or rescheduling of a substance can be initiated by the DEA, by the HHS Assistant Secretary of Health, or on the petition of any interested party.

The rescheduling of HCPs was initiated by a petition from a physician in 1999. The DEA submitted a request to HHS for a scientific and medical evaluation of HCPs and a scheduling recommendation. In 2013, the U. S. Food and Drug Administration held a public Advisory Committee meeting on the matter, and the committee voted to recommend rescheduling HCPs from Schedule III to Schedule II by a vote of 19 to 10. Consistent with the outcome of that vote, in December of 2013 HHS sent such a recommendation to the DEA. Two months later, on February 27, the DEA informed Americans of its intent to move HCPs from Schedule III to Schedule II by publishing a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking in the Federal Register, outlining its rationale and the proposed changes in detail and soliciting public comments on the proposal, of which almost 600 were received.

A small majority of the commenters supported the proposed change.

Victim ticketed after car caused crash in Ocala and fled the scene

Ocala Post

-

September 4, 2014

0

ocala news, accident, marion county — 1998 Chevy Silverado – Photo by Ocala Post [Click to enlarge]

Ocala, Florida — An Ocala man involved in an accident today says he cannot believe the outcome, or how an Ocala Police Department Community Service Specialist treated him.

William R. Holloway was traveling north in the inside lane of the 100 block of NE 25th Avenue in his 1998 Chevy Silverado moments before the accident occurred.

Driving behind Holloway was an Ocala Post reporter who witnessed the accident.

A second driver, Brandon Rankin, who was driving a 2004 International TG LEE delivery truck, was in the northbound left-hand turn lane waiting to turn onto NE 2nd Street.

A third vehicle, silver in color, referred to by Ocala Police Department Community Service Officer L. Metzler as a “phantom” vehicle, was traveling northbound in the outside lane.

As the “phantom” vehicle was passing the Ocala Post reporter, the vehicle remained in the outside lane. However, as the vehicle came alongside of the Silverado, it quickly merged into the inside lane. The “phantom” vehicle did not “cut off” the Silverado, but instead it actually forced the truck out of the inside lane and into the left-hand turn lane — nearly sideswiping the front right of the Silverado.

The Silverado was forced into the left-hand turn lane where it then slammed into the right rear corner of the TG LEE delivery truck.

The silver vehicle was then in the inside lane. The driver of the vehicle seemed to slow as if they were going to stop, but then returned to the outside lane and sped off.

As Officer Metzler handed Holloway a citation for careless driving, he responded, “You have got to be kidding me.” Metzler replied, “No, you need to keep control of your vehicle.”

The Ocala Post reporter gave a statement, but it did not change the outcome.

Holloway said he was told OPD would not be pursuing the “phantom” vehicle because “that’s just how these things work out.”

According to Holloway, Officer Metzler said Florida statute 316 states a driver cannot cause another accident while avoiding one.

“I could understand if I was cut off by the driver, but they actually pushed me into the other lane. Had I held my ground, there would have been a lot more cars involved,” Holloway said. “Writing me a citation for an unavoidable accident only added insult to injury.”

Holloway was not seriously injured, but his truck was a total loss.

Holloway also said once his vehicle was towed, the tow yard tried to coerce him into signing over his truck.

Holloway has since retained legal counsel.

Holloway said he wants to see the driver of the silver vehicle, possibly a four-door Toyota or Honda, come forward and do the right thing. The person responsible for this accident can call the Ocala Police Department at 352-369-7000.

Ocala PostOcala Newspaper - News without hiding the truth

Ocala PostOcala Newspaper - News without hiding the truth

Ocala PostOcala Newspaper - News without hiding the truth

Ocala PostOcala Newspaper - News without hiding the truth