Tastes so good it’ll make you say, “YUUUMMM,” new line of food products to include pancake mix

Ocala Post

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August 31, 2020

Tastes so good it’ll make you say, “YUUUMMM,” new line of food products to include pancake mix

Percy Robert Miller, also known by his rapper name Master P, announced via Instagram a new line of food products.

Master P’s new line of “Uncle P’s Louisiana Seasoned” food products includes rice, beans, grits, pancake mix, syrup, and oatmeal.

The tagline is “There’s no limit to success.”

“My partner and I, James Lindsey, created PJ Foods Company to give the world a taste of Louisiana’s authentically seasoned white rice, yellow rice, brown rice, dirty rice, and red beans and rice while adding diversity in the packaged food shelving space. We are opening the doors for other black-owned companies to produce their own products and brands to change the narrative,” Master P wrote on Instagram.

He went on to say, “When you look at Aunt Jemima and Uncle Ben, a lot of those products are mockeries of African-American people and couldn’t even feed our communities. With Uncle P, the more we make, the more we give. And the only way to give is by owning these products.” Adding, “A portion of the profits will go towards educating inner-city kids and assisting elderly people in Black communities.”

Master P said it is about time there was a line of food products that were black-owned. He also said that his decision was in direct response to the Aunt Jemima fiasco earlier this year.

Many have welcomed the brand while some have called the food line gimmicky.

What do you think about the product line?

Two dead following head-on collision, three others, including two children, remain critical

Ocala Post

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August 31, 2020

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Two dead following head-on collision, three others, including two children, remain critical

Two people are dead and three others remain in critical condition following a head-on crash Sunday.

The accident occurred on U.S. 441, east of Reddick near Northwest 155th Street.

According to Florida Highway Patrol troopers, an SUV, driven by a 28-year-old female, was traveling north on US-441, and for unknown reasons, crossed the center median and struck a sedan head-on.

The SUV came to a final stop on the west shoulder facing east. The sedan came to a final stop in the southbound outside lane facing a southwesterly direction.

The passenger of the sedan, a 70-year-old man, was pronounced deceased on the scene.

The Driver of the SUV was pronounced deceased at Ocala Regional Medical Center. Two children who were inside the SUV — ages 8 and 10 — were transported to a nearby hospital with critical injuries.

The 61-year-old driver of the sedan is also listed in critical condition.

Ocala Fire Rescue responded to multiple vehicle crashes Sunday

Ocala Post

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August 31, 2020

3

Ocala Fire Rescue responded to multiple vehicle crashes Sunday

Ocala Fire Rescue firefighters responded to a rollover on I-75 Sunday between mile marker 352 and mile marker 354.

OFR said the roads were wet and they responded to an “overabundance of traffic incident calls, Sunday.”

At approximately 8:40 a.m. Ocala fire crews were dispatched to a vehicle rollover on I-75 NB, and While en route, crews learned that the vehicle was accessible from an interior road.

Crews approached the scene from NW 37th Avenue and gained access to a pick-up truck lying on its side.

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The driver – sole occupant – was assessed and transported to the hospital for evaluation.

No other injuries were reported.

A few hours later, crews responded to a vehicle versus building. At 1:31 p.m., firefighters arrived at the scene of a vehicle crash that resulted in an SUV impacting the Paddock Park Animal Care Center. Three patients were transported to the hospital. No pet injuries were reported.

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One hour later, fire crews made their way to I-75, where a pick-up truck with a trailer jackknifed over the State Road 40 overpass, blocking multiple lanes of traffic. Although traffic on I-75 NB was affected for some time, no injuries were reported.

Ocala Fire Rescue reminds drivers to slow down, avoid hard breaks, and maintain a safe distance between vehicles while driving on wet roads or under rainy conditions.

Health officials say Floridians can now get edible marijuana, law enforcement officials not thrilled

Ocala Post

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August 27, 2020

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Health officials say Floridians can now get edible marijuana, law enforcement officials not thrilled

Wednesday night, and without public announcement, the Florida Department of Health, which oversees medical marijuana, published a new set of rules that will allow marijuana dispensaries to sell edible marijuana.

The new rules take effect immediately.

The health department was able to set forth the new rules due to a 2017 law which gave the Department the authority to do so.

The new rule comes months after the Marion County Sheriff’s Office attempted to convince the pubic that edible marijuana could cause seizures.

Companies that produce edibles will be required to possess a food permit. The permit could cost as much a $650.00.

Guidelines

Edibles shall be one of the following shapes (including the three-dimensional form of each shape):

Square
Circle
Rectangle
Triangle
Parallelogram
Oval
Diamond

Edibles shall be in one of the following forms:

Lozenges — For purposes of this rule, a “lozenge” is a hard edible that is held in the mouth and slowly dissolved
Gelatins — For purposes of this rule, a “gelatin” is a semi-translucent edible made with water-soluble protein derived from collagen or a plant-based alternative
Baked goods — For purposes of this rule, a “baked good” is an edible comprised of dough or batter baked in an oven by the MMTC (cakes, brownies, cookies, candies)
Chocolates — For purposes of this rule, a “chocolate” is a solid edible made of milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or chocolate substitute such as carob. Chocolates may not contain any caramel, nougat, nuts, fruit, honey, marshmallows, or any other such ingredient, toppings, or fillings
Drink Powders — For purposes of this rule, “drink powder” is an edible comprised of powder which is combined with a fluid for consumption as a beverage by a qualified patient

In the case of multi-serving edibles, each single-serving portion must be physically distinct or clearly marked or delineated in a way that enables a reasonable person to determine the portion of the entire edible that constitutes a single serving. If the single-serving portion is not physically distinct, it must be easily separable in order to allow the qualified patient to physically separate, with minimal effort, the single-serving portion.

An MMTC shall not produce or dispense any edibles that:

Contain any color additives, whether natural or artificial
Contain or bear a reasonable resemblance to commercially available candy. For the purposes of this rule, a product bears a reasonable resemblance to commercially available candy if the product is similar in appearance to an existing candy product that is familiar to the public as a widely distributed, branded food product, such that the edible could be mistaken for the branded product, especially by children
Bear any markings, symbols, images, graphics, or words, other than the universal symbol, as described herein
Are decorated with icing, sprinkles, or other toppings of any kind
Are a primary or bright color. Edibles shall be produced in a manner to minimize color intensity and other color and visual characteristics attractive to children.

So far, according to a press release, Agriculture Commissioner Nikki Fried’s office has authorized four of the state’s medical-marijuana operators to begin manufacturing edible products.

Some law enforcement agencies have already taken to Facebook to express their dismay. Some claiming it will make their jobs harder.

Dispensary owners say they expect sales to increase by 20 percent or higher.

Bat tests positive for rabies in Micanopy area

Ocala Post

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August 27, 2020

11

The Florida Department of Health in Marion County wants Micanopy area residents to be aware that a bat in their area has tested positive for rabies. People who live or work in the area should maintain a heightened awareness that rabies is active in the area.

Residents and visitors are advised to take the following precautions:

Avoid all contact with wildlife, particularly raccoons, bats, foxes, skunks, otters, bobcats, and coyotes. Never adopt wild animals or bring them into your home.
Never handle unfamiliar animals (wild or domestic), even if they appear friendly.
Do not feed or unintentionally attract wild animals with open garbage cans or trash.
Keep rabies vaccinations up to date for all pets.
Keep pets under direct supervision so they do not come into contact with wild animals.
Prevent bats from entering living quarters or occupied spaces in homes, churches, schools, and other similar areas where they might encounter people and pets.

An animal with rabies could infect other animals that have not received a rabies vaccination. Domestic animals are at risk if they are not vaccinated, while rabies is always a danger in wild animal populations.

Health officials said that this notice is designed to give public awareness but should not give residents a false sense of security if their area has not been named.

Rabies is a disease of the nervous system and is fatal to humans and warm-blooded animals. The only treatment for human exposure to rabies is rabies-specific immune globulin and rabies immunization. Appropriate treatment started soon after the exposure will protect an exposed person from the disease.

If you have been bitten or scratched by a wild or domestic animal, seek medical attention and report the injury to your county health department. If your pet is bitten by a wild animal, seek immediate veterinary assistance for the animal, and contact your county’s Animal Services department.

Thousands of Duke Energy customers face disconnection, options available

Ocala Post

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August 26, 2020

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In March, Duke Energy launched a sweeping series of changes to help customers during the COVID-19 pandemic, including suspending disconnections for nonpayment and waiving late payment fees, as well as fees for credit and debit card payments.

As Duke Energy returns to standard billing and payments, customers began receiving notices on August 24.

According to a press release, disconnections will begin on September 2.

Currently, there are a variety of payment options and financial assistance programs available to customers.

Duke Energy spokeswoman, Ana Gibbs, said, “If customers don’t take action now, those opportunities may not be available in the future.”

Duke Energy customers should call 800-700-8744 or visit duke-energy.com/ExtraTime to make payment arrangements or request payment assistance. For commercial customers, visit duke-energy.com/Extension.

Duke Energy said they have been proactively working with customers who are accumulating past-due balances on their utility bills, offering payment plans to mitigate potentially more significant financial challenges in the future.

“Some customers are currently not paying any portion of their bill, building up a large balance that will be harder to pay off later. Some customers will continue to build a debt that will become difficult or perhaps overwhelming to pay back, ” said Gibbs.

Gibbs said, “Currently there are a variety of payment options and financial assistance programs available to customers. If customers don’t take action now, those opportunities may not be available in the future. This is why we are asking customers to reach out to us.”

There are approximately 88,000 Duke Energy Florida customers who are 60+ days delinquent and eligible for disconnections.

Duke Energy said customers should also be on high alert for scammers.

“Now that we are doing email, robocalls, and text reminders, there are scammers who target those most vulnerable and may pose as Duke Energy. We do not ask for prepaid cards and will never make threatening phone calls about shutting off power within an hour. We provide multiple reminders prior to the shut-off date, said Gibbs.

Judge rules in favor of teachers, parts of DeSantis’ order deemed unconstitutional

Ocala Post

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August 24, 2020

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Judge rules in favor of teachers, parts of DeSantis’ order deemed unconstitutional

On Monday, a judge ruled in favor of Florida’s largest teachers union stating that DeSantis’ order to require schools to teach students in the classroom during the COVID-19 pandemic is unconstitutional.

The decision comes after the Florida Education Association filed a lawsuit against Gov. DeSantis that said his order was reckless and unsafe.

Now, according to the judge, the order states that the day-to-day decision to open or close a school in Florida should, and must, always be the decision of local officials — school boards, etc. The injunction states that school boards can make the decision to close schools without penalty.

School districts can reopen brick-and-mortar schools, but parents can decide to send their child to school or not and schools will be able to choose if they want to offer full services.

Attorney’s, along with DeSantis, argued that COVID-19 is not serious enough to keep schools closed.

Health officials were supposed to assist in advising whether or not schools should remain closed or reopen, however, during the hearing health officials said they were ordered by DeSantis’ office to “keep quiet about the issue.”

Traffic violation leads to drug charges for two Ocala men

Ocala Post

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August 24, 2020

21

ocala news, ocala post, faces of meth — Michael Pent was charged with Possession of Methamphetamine. Christopher Graves was charged with Possession of Methamphetamine and Possession of Drug Equipment.

Two Ocala men were arrested on drug charges after they were pulled over for running a stop sign while exiting the parking lot of Sun Days Motel, located at 3351 South Pine Avenue.

When deputies stopped the vehicle, they utilized a K-9 to perform an open-air drug sniff to which deputies say the dog alerted to the smell of narcotics.

According to the arrest affidavit, deputies located “several shards” of crystal meth, a baggie containing crystal meth, a scale, and three glass pipes.

Michael Pent was charged with Possession of Methamphetamine. Christopher Graves was charged with Possession of Methamphetamine and Possession of Drug Equipment.

Both men have an extensive criminal history.

Man “experimented” with rabbit, but really wanted dogs

Ocala Post

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August 21, 2020

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Man “experimented” with rabbit, but really wanted dogs

jacob peltz, michigan, animal abuse, ocala news, ocala post — Jacob Peltz

Garden City, Michigan — The Michigan Humane Society, after a two-year investigation, was finally able to bring charges against a man they say posted an ad to have sex with dogs.

In 2018, investigators received a complaint about the ad that was posted on Craigslist by Jacob Peltz, 27.

The ad read, “Seeking sex with dogs.”

Humane Society investigator, Elise Ramsey, said, “Truly, we were on this case from the complaint…from then until now, over two years that we were working on this investigation.”

While undercover, Ramsey answered the ad.

She said the investigation exposed “sickening evidence” which lead investigators to Peltz’s home.

According to reports, when police arrived at the residence they found an injured rabbit that Peltz had been “experimenting” with.

Investigators said that text messages received from Peltz during the investigation were disturbing and “showed how sick” these individuals really are.

Peltz, who had a job working with animals, was charged with Using a Computer to Commit a Crime, Crimes against Nature/Sodomy, and Animal Cruelty.

Peltz has been ordered not to have contact with the rabbit or any other animals.

If convicted, he could face up to 20 years in prison.

Peltz is scheduled for a probable cause hearing on August 30.

Officials in Michigan said that, because Peltz worked with animals, if anyone believes their pet was victimized by Peltz, they should call 866-MHUMANE.

Two juveniles charged one with felony each after making homemade fireworks

Ocala Post

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August 20, 2020

147

ocala news, ocala post, fireworks — Clayton Pinkerton and Zachary Sullivan

Ocala, Florida — A Florida Highway Patrol Trooper was patrolling the 6400 block of Northeast Jacksonville Road early Thursday morning when he spotted two juveniles in the parking lot of Oak Griner Baptist Church.

After making contact with the juveniles, later identified as Clayton Pinkerton and Zachary Sullivan — both age 16 — the trooper noticed that Sullivan had something tucked under his shirt.

Upon further inspection, the trooper determined that it was a plastic soda bottle containing firecrackers and the powder from inside firecrackers that had apparently been torn open and emptied into the bottle. Additionally, the boys had put a piece of rope through the cap of the bottle to act as a fuse. The powder used to make firecrackers is often referred to as flash powder or black powder. The powder can be purchased online and is not illegal in the U.S.

According to a press release, the Trooper then notified the Marion County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputy Murphy arrived and questioned the teens.

Pinkerton and Sullivan initially told the deputy that they had found the bottle on the side of the road. They later admitted to putting the firecrackers inside the bottle along with the makeshift fuse.

The teens said they did not intend to set off the homemade fireworks in the parking lot of the church, but did plan to set it off somewhere in the area.

Deputy Murphy arrested the teens and charged them with one count each of Possession of a Homemade Explosive Device.

The boys were released into the custody of their parents.

Ocala Post reached out to the State Attorney’s Office but had not heard back at the time this article was published.

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Ocala man charged with three felonies following a domestic disturbance

Ocala Post

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August 19, 2020

133

Ocala man charged with three felonies following a domestic disturbance

ocala news, ocala post, child abuse, domestic violence — Michael Coan

An Ocala man remains behind bars after he was arrested on charges of Child Abuse, Aggravated Battery with Permanent Disfigurement, and Preventing Communication with 911.

According to the arrest affidavit, on August 12, at approximately 7 p.m., Ocala police responded to the 3900 block of SW 30th Street, after a caller reported that she had been battered.

When the officer arrived, the victim, who was bleeding from her head, told police that Michael Coan, 24, had slapped her child across the face for saying “I kill you.” The child was apparently repeating a skit from comedian Jeff Dunham.

The victim stated that she told Coan not to discipline her child in that manner, at which time the two began to argue. During the argument, Coan snatched the victim’s phone and threw it. Coan then got up off the couch and walked down a hallway.

According to reports, while standing in the hallway, Coan stated to the victim, “Come at me.”

The victim (the mother) then got up off the couch and began to walk in the direction of Coan. As she approached Coan, who was holding a tumbler-style cup, he began to repeatedly strike the victim in the head with it.

Coan then fled the scene on foot.

Police said that there were large amounts of blood spatter in the hallway, on the curtains, airconditioner, walls, a pillow, and the cup Coan used to hit the victim.

Coan was located sitting on a tree stump a short distance from the home. He told police that he was “simply trying to discipline the child and did not mean any physical harm.”

The victim was transported to a local hospital where she received stitches.

Police stated that there were no visible red marks on the child’s face.

Coan’s next court date is slated for September 15. He is being held on a $17,000 bond.

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Nine displaced following fire at duplex

Ocala Post

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August 17, 2020

4

Ocala, Florida — Nine people — four adults and five children — were displaced Monday following an early morning fire.

Ocala Fire Rescue (OFR) responded to the fire in the 2300 block of SW Fort King Street, at 3:04 a.m.

According to a press release, OFR Engines 1, 3, 4 and 7, Rescue 3, Tower 1, Battalion Chief 22, and a Safety Officer arrived on scene to find flames emitting through the roof of a one-story duplex unit.

At 3:08 a.m., Engine crews began extinguishing the fire while Rescue crews completed a search to ensure no one was inside the burning units.

OFR Chaplain assistance and American Red Cross resources were requested.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

No injuries were reported.

Bombing exercises taking place in Ocala National Forest

Ocala Post

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August 17, 2020

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Bombing exercises taking place in Ocala National Forest

Parts of the Ocala National Forest will be closed between August 17 and August 20 due to bombing exercises taking place by the U.S Navy.

According to the Navy, the bombings will take place as follows:

August 17th: 9:30 a.m. to Noon and 1:30 p.m. to 4 p.m.
August 18th: 9 a.m. to Noon and 1:30 p.m. to 4 p.m.
August 19th: 9 a.m. to Noon and 1:30 p.m. to 4 p.m.
August 20th: 9 a.m. to Noon and 1:30 p.m. to 4 p.m.

The Navy will be activating the Range Boundary Safety Zone and closing the seven gates surrounding the zone to ensure public safety in support of an upcoming exercise at the Pinecastle bombing range.

The Navy said that residents should not be alarmed by the explosions. However, they said if a resident wishes to file a noise complaint, they can call 1-800-874-5059.

Teacher’s assistant had sex with girl from Tinder, arrested

Ocala Post

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August 14, 2020

106

Teacher’s assistant had sex with girl from Tinder, arrested

ocala news, ocala post, sex with minor, school teacher — Nick Elder

Ocala Police Department detectives arrested a Vanguard High School teacher’s assistant after they were notified that he had been having a sexual relationship with a 17-year-old student.

Nicholas Elder, 31, has been charged with Unlawful Sex with a Minor.

On August 6, the Department of Children and Families received an anonymous complaint stating that Elder had been involved with two female students from VHS. The School was notified, at which time the school resource officer notified OPD.

When questioning the 17-year-old, she told detectives that she met Elder on Tinder. She stated that she had been fighting with her mother and when she decided to move out, Elder offered for her to live with him.

She stated that the two began a romantic relationship and were living together as a couple. She told detectives that she did not want to have sex with Elder, but did so because she felt pressured. She later stated that she was not forced. Additionally, she told detectives that, on occasion, Elder provided her with marijuana and alcohol.

According to the arrest affidavit, the girl had originally told Elder that she was 18. However, Elder admitted to investigators that he found out she was 17 prior to her moving in with him. He then admitted that he had sex with the girl.

The affidavit states that the girl’s mother knew her daughter had moved in with Elder, even doing a “well-being” check on her while she was staying at his apartment.

A search of Elder’s phone revealed that he had numerous nude photos of young women as well as explicit videos that had been sent to him.

Detectives stated that Elder might be facing other charges.

Elder told police that he felt like he was the one being taken advantage of.

OPD is asking anyone else who was a victim of Elder’s or may have information that would be helpful in this case, please contact Detective Coughlin at 352-369-7000.

Ocala business owner files lawsuit against the City of Ocala over “unlawful mask ordinance”

Ocala Post

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August 14, 2020

257

Ocala business owner files lawsuit against the City of Ocala over “unlawful mask ordinance”

city of ocala, ocala news, ocalapost, face mansks, billy woods — Lawsuit filed against the City of Ocala

[Special to ocalapost.com]

An Ocala business owner, who is also an attorney, filed a lawsuit against the City of Ocala Thursday for both a declaratory judgment and injunctive release on an emergency and permanent basis as a result of the mask ordinance put in place by Ocala city officials.

The lawsuit comes after a national debate began when Marion County Sheriff Billy Woods, in direct response to the Ocala ordinance, banned his employees from wearing masks while on the job. His actions made national news after the Ocala Star-Banner broke the story. And after hearing comments from city council members and citizens — both locally and abroad — the sheriff seemingly made a mockery of the City of Ocala. Many calling his move a “political stunt” due to the fact the story emerged following a conversation Woods had with President Donald Trump.

On August 5, the City of Ocala, in a 4-1 vote, passed an emergency measure to force citizens to wear face masks. On Monday, August 10, Ocala Mayor Kent Guinn announced that he had vetoed the ordinance. Then, on Wednesday, August, 12, the Ocala City Council overturned Mayor Kent Guinn’s veto.

Attorney and business owner, Christina D’Amato Miller, wrote in the lawsuit that she is not only a business owner but a private citizen who is “professionally and personally adversely affected by the unlawful passage of Emergency [Mask] Ordinance 2020-47 and the risk of liability and/or punishment that exists for non-compliance.”

There have been more than 14 lawsuits filed in Florida challenging the constitutional validity of ordinances requiring face coverings.

The lawsuit states, “The major distinction [between the other cases] and the case at bar, is that Ocala has not specifically enacted any legislation that actually requires individuals to utilize face coverings. The abject failure of Ocala to draft any meaningful law to remotely achieve its stated objective cannot stand as a matter of law.”

Ocala Mayor Kent Guinn made his position clear.

Guinn, said, “The burden falls on the business owner. It will be too hard to enforce.”

In the lawsuit, it states, “Ocala has unlawfully delegated both its powers and its responsibilities, of legislating and enforcing individual citizen’s choices in regards to face mask usage, to private business owners. Rather than entertaining any meaningful attempt to directly legislate the behavior of its citizens, Ocala has inexplicably and entirely without any authority, shifted the burden and responsibility of legislating its policies and policing its citizens to private business owners.”

Perhaps the most important and significant part of the lawsuit, states, “EO 2020-47 is unconstitutional, both facially and as-applied, because it violates the privacy clause of Article 1, Section 23 of the Florida Constitution, which states: ‘Every natural person has the right to be let alone and free from governmental intrusion into the person’s private life.’ The Right to Privacy set forth in the Florida Constitution extends even more protection than the Right to Privacy under the due process clause of the Federal Constitution. In the absence of any lawful mandate, Floridians should be free to make their private healthcare choices free from the unwarranted intrusion of unqualified third parties.”

Guinn also feels that the ordinance will lead to fights and callers will flood 911 phone lines.

“I do not want my law enforcement officers fining people because they do not have on a mask,” said Guinn. “It should be a personal choice.”

The national attention created by Woods following Ocala’s mask ordinance has many calling for the sheriff’s resignation while some say they support his decision. As far as the employer-employee relationship within a government agency in regards to employees either being banned or forced to wear a mask with the employee being deprived of personal choice, a higher court would have to get involved.

Miller notes in the lawsuit that she has proven “a substantial likelihood of success” against the City of Ocala.

From the City of Ocala to the sheriff’s office, everyone can agree that the mask issue has created a fierce, divided, and heated debate in Ocala.

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Health department not consulted before sheriff banned employees from wearing masks

Byron Durning

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August 13, 2020

227

Health department not consulted before sheriff banned employees from wearing masks

Marion County Sheriff Billy Woods believes that there is no real evidence that wearing a mask lessens the spread of COVID-19.

On August 11, the same day Woods had a phone conference with President Donald Trump, Woods sent out a memo to his employees ordering them not to wear masks. Additionally, residents will not be allowed to enter any MCSO property while wearing a mask.

“In light of the current events when it comes to the sentiment and/or hatred toward law enforcement in our country today, this is being done to ensure there is clear communication and for identification purposes of any individual walking into a lobby,” Woods wrote.

Woods said if a person has to wear a mask then they can stay outside and call from their phone.

In the letter, Woods states, “Now, I can already hear the whining.” The letter goes on to read, “We can debate and argue all day of why and why not. The fact is, the amount of professionals that give the reason why we should, I can find the exact same amount of professionals that say why we shouldn’t.”

The CDC and the WHO disagree with the sheriff and stated that law enforcement officers are not qualified, healthcare professionals.

In an email to Ocala Post, the CDC wrote, “People should cover their mouth and nose with a mask when around others because a person could spread COVID-19 to others even if they do not feel sick. The mask is meant to protect other people in case the mask wearer is infected. Everyone should wear a mask in public settings and when around people who don’t live in your household, especially when other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain. Masks should not be placed on young children under age 2, anyone who has trouble breathing, or is unconscious, incapacitated, or otherwise unable to remove the mask without assistance.”

Woods’ letter, states, “This is no longer a debate nor is it up for discussion. My orders will be followed or my actions will be swift to address.”

Woods wrote, “If at any time you are confronted by any individual complaining, berating you or just being a difficult individual, you will politely and professionally tell them ‘I am not required to wear a mask nor will I, per the Order of the Sheriff’ and then walk away from them.”

The memo notes several exemptions where masks will be worn, which include, the jail, in hospitals, schools, and when dealing with people suspected of being infected with COVID-19 or those who are considered high risk of complications from the disease.

Woods said that while wearing a mask in accordance with the exceptions if at any time orders must be given for someone to comply that the mask will be removed.

Woods also said that by his order, deputies will not be allowed to wear a maks at events where there may be large crowds.

“As for special details and/or any special events (paid or not), masks will not be worn. If you are the special detail deputy you will again advise the contact person that a mask will not be worn by you.”

On August 5, the City of Ocala, in a 4-1 vote, passed an emergency measure to force citizens to wear face masks. On Monday, August 10, Ocala Mayor Kent Guinn announced that he vetoed the ordinance. Then, on Wednesday, August, 12, the Ocala City Council overturned Mayor Kent Guinn’s veto.

The City Council disagrees with Woods’ decision.

According to the health department, Marion County has seen a surge in COVID-19 cases and broke a record on Tuesday. So far, 104 people have died in Marion County.

More than 200 inmates at the jail have been infected. Along with 36 jail employees and seven other MCSO employees. This includes road deputies.

Despite the fact that a nurse employed by MCSO died from COVID-19 after contracting it at the jail, Woods said at 900 employees the number of cases so far has proven that his current way of approaching the issue is working.

Reader Tanya Cummings disagrees. She wrote, “So because only one of his employees died it’s OK by the sheriff’s standards? I guess life is expendable to him? I am sure the family of that nurse agrees with the sheriff…NOT! One death is too many.”

Reader Erica Grove, wrote, “I support the sheriff and voted for him during the last election, but it is my opinion that my tax dollars pay for the deputies who patrol the streets and I feel they should have a choice.”

The Marion County Health Department said that Woods did not consult them or ask for professional healthcare advice before he implemented his ban on masks.

Woods is the only sheriff in the state to keep employees from protecting themselves. Many of the surrounding counties have mask requirements for law enforcement when dealing with the public. The Ocala Police Department recommends face masks but does not require them to be worn.

Many deputies are upset that they do not have a choice to protect themselves, but the sheriff said it is not up for discussion.

WFTV reported that Woods refused to go on camera to discuss the issue.

Ocala business owner files lawsuit against the City of Ocala over “unlawful mask ordinance”

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Veto overruled, masks now required in Ocala, businesses vow not to allow deputies in without a mask

Ocala Post

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August 12, 2020

300

Veto overruled, masks now required in Ocala, businesses vow not to allow deputies in without a mask

Marion County Sheriff Billy Woods bans employees from wearing face masks

On Wednesday, the Ocala City Council overturned Mayor Kent Guinn’s veto after striking down the face mask ordinance.

The ordinance will now go into effect immediately.

Guinn made his position clear.

Guinn, said, “The burden falls on the business owner. It will be too hard to enforce”

Guinn also feels that the ordinance will lead to fights and flood 911 phone lines.

The Council also said that they do not agree with how Marion County sheriff Billy Woods has handled the COVID-19 situation and do not agree with the fact that Woods has banned his deputies from wearing masks.

Business manager Michael Esposito, said, “If customers and employees are required to wear masks in the city limits, then deputies should not be exempt. Woods is not above the law, although he thinks he is.”

Esposito is not the only business manager in Ocala who feels this way. Many others have vowed not to serve a deputy if they enter with no mask.

“If we have to, then they have to (referring to deputies),” said Maria Maldonado. ” If we have to turn away every customer who does not have a mask or be fined, then it will be across the board.”

Jose Alvarez, said, “Any sheriff or other civil servant whose salary I pay should follow the law. The sheriff says it is not up for discussion or debate. He says his employees should tell me as a business owner who must follow the ordinance that they don’t have to follow the ordinance at the order of the sheriff. Guess what? I will not allow them in my business… period, point-blank. The law is for everybody, especially civil servants.” He added, “And because no one ran against the corruption here, we cannot vote for a new sheriff for another four years.”

Reader Marc Halcomb, wrote, “Hasn’t anyone figured out yet that Wyatt Earp Woods has a complete and utter disregard for the citizenry he swore to serve. Anyone who questions him is labeled a ‘keyboard warrior.'” Halcomb went on to write, “He is an elected official, he should be open to having his decisions questioned. It is the duty and the right of every citizen to question their elected officials. To announce that there be no criticism of an elected official is unpatriotic, servile, and morally treasonable to the American public.”

Most business owners feel that Woods has put his deputies in a bad position as well as creates a bigger divide.

Alvarez, said, “It is not really the fault of the deputies, but the law is the law. If the sheriff wants to act above the law while we get fined, then this is what we have to do. As I said, it should apply to all. By the sheriff’s standards, one of his employees died out of 900 so that is okay in his book. Public servants are not exempt.”

Although the Ocala Police Department responds to call in the city limits, business owners say it is not uncommon for deputies to stroll into inner-city businesses.

“We support the deputies, but unfortunately the sheriff has created this situation. I believe it was political and he did not like the fact that the city was going to pass an ordinance. This sheriff does not like being told what to do. So he created a new rule at the last minute just to pull rank and banned his deputies from wearing masks when everyone else in the city has too,” said Maldonado.

The ordinance in part read as follows:

(i) “The Proprietor of a business establishment or lodging establishment shall ensure that every person in such a business establishment or lodging establishment wears a face covering.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, the following persons shall be exempt from the requirement to wear a face-covering set forth in section (i).

( a.) Children under the age of seven (7) years of age.

( b.) Persons who have trouble breathing due to a chronic pre-existing condition or individuals with a documented or demonstrable medical problem. It is the intent of this provision that those individuals who cannot tolerate a facial covering for a medical, sensory, or any other condition which makes it difficult for them to utilize a face covering and function in public are not required to wear one.

( c.) Public safety, fire, and other life safety and health care personnel, as their personal protective equipment requirements, will be governed by their respective agencies.

( d.) Persons exercising religious beliefs or practices conflicting with the wearing of a facial covering.

( e.) Persons physically exercising while observing at least 6 feet of distancing from another person.

( f.) Restaurant, bar, or theatre patrons while eating or drinking. It is the intent of this provision that a face covering will be worn while traversing a business establishment for ingress and egress, to use the restroom facilities, and while otherwise standing when persons are unable to maintain at least 6 feet of distancing.

( g.) Business owners, managers, and employees who are in an area of a business establishment that is not open to customers, patrons, or the public, provided that 6 feet of distance exist between the persons. This exception does not apply to employees who are present in the kitchen or other food and beverage preparation area of a business establishment.

( h.) Medical, dental, or other health care facilities or offices, as mask-wearing in those facilities, will be regulated pursuant to guidance specifically directed to those particular facilities.

( i.) Persons who are separated from any other person by means of barriers such as plastic face shields, plastic or glass barriers, or other devices that effectively prevent the transmission of the COVID-19 virus.

( j.) A person in a lodging establishment who is inside the lodging unit, including but not limited to, a hotel room, motel room, vacation rental unit, timeshare unit, or similar unit.

The Proprietor of a business establishment is required to post signage notifying all persons of the requirement to wear a face-covering set forth herein the entry door or front façade of such business establishment.”

Compliance and consequences

A Proprietor of a business establishment shall be deemed to be in compliance with the requirements of this Ordinance if such Proprietor or its employee(s) implements all of the following measures:

( a.) Posts signage about the face-covering requirement;

( b.) Announces the requirement over the business establishment or lodging establishment’s public address system, if possible;

( c.) Requires employees to wear face coverings, unless they are excepted from such requirement under subsection (4)(ii) of this Emergency Ordinance; and

( d.) Makes a “reasonable effort” to ensure guests, customers, or patrons within the business establishment wear a face covering. “Reasonable effort” shall include verbally requesting that a guest, customer, or patron wear a face covering.

Prior to the issuance of penalties as provided in subsection 5(iv) of this Emergency Ordinance, the alleged violator shall be given an opportunity to voluntarily comply with the provisions of this Emergency Ordinance. In the event voluntary compliance is not achieved, then a violation of this Emergency Ordinance, and any order issued pursuant hereto, shall be subject to the penalties as provided in subsection 5(iv) of this Emergency Ordinance, or as otherwise provided by law.

A violation of this Emergency Ordinance is a noncriminal infraction.
A violation of this Emergency Ordinance does not authorize the search or arrest of an individual.

The Proprietor of a business establishment is subject to the following penalties for the violation of this Emergency Ordinance:

( a.) For a first offense, a verbal warning that includes education about the dangers of non-compliance;

( b.) For a second offense, a written warning;

( c.) For a third and all subsequent offenses, a fine of $25.00.

( d.) All other remedies available at law or equity, including injunction, remain available to the City, even after issuance of a citation.

The ordinance is greatly frowned upon by many citizens as they feel it violates their rights. Others feel it is a waste of resources.

Guinn agrees with business owners and wants the ordinance to stop.

Marion County Sheriff Billy Woods accused of withholding vital health information from the families of inmates

Rebecca Long

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August 12, 2020

129

Marion County Sheriff Billy Woods accused of withholding vital health information from the families of inmates

mcso, police corruption, marion county jail — Ocala Post file photo

Marion County Sheriff Billy Woods is being accused of instructing his jail employees to withhold vital health information from the families of inmates.

This is a topic in which Ocala Post has received dozens of emails from both family members of inmates as well as MCSO employees who completely disagree with the way the sheriff has handled the pandemic and treated inmates…many of whom have since had charges dropped for various reasons.

In many of the emails, Woods is quoted as saying that his decisions “are not up for discussion.”

In another email, Terri Waters, stated, “Woods is an elected official. Taxpayers want answers. Despite what an inmate has done, the family members of that inmate also suffer. COVID-19 is rampant in that jail.” She went on to say, “Employees do not wear masks. How the hell do they not expect employees to bring it in? From profiting from extortion via family members through mass incarceration and the company the jail partners with to take the money, to COVID-19, it is sickening. We all need to be vary wary of ANY elected person who does not like to be questioned. We need a new sheriff not another Ken Ergle.”

Most recently, Chris Williamson, the son of an 87-year-old inmate who recently died, said that he was never told by the jail that his father had been moved out of the jail.

Williamson said that he became suspicious when his father missed two visitation calls and started to call the jail looking for answers.

In fact, Williamson said that even after he called the jail multiple times, he was given the runaround and no actual helpful information. Employees at the jail would not answer his questions.

Finally, several days after Williamson had left another message at the jail, he said they returned his call. Jail staff told him that his father had tested positive for COVID-19 and was now on a ventilator. The jail never told Williamson that his father had been moved.

Marion County Sheriff Billy Woods bans employees from wearing face masks

MSCO officials claimed that they did not know Williamson was the emergency contact for his father, however, Willaimson said he had signed forms at the jail multiple times listing his relationship with his father. He had also met in person with a nurse.

Williamson said that he was told by other family members to start calling hospitals. After several phone calls, he discovered that his father had been moved from jail to a hospital.

Willaimson said he overheard someone from MCSO tell the nurse, “Only give him medical information, do not tell him his father’s location.”

Heart of Florida Health Center, the healthcare facility that recently started providing inmate care for the jail, said they have been instructed by MCSO to not tell any family members when an inmate has been moved for a medical emergency.

James Smith, the attorney who was representing the inmate, said that Willaimsnon’s father had other medical conditions, needed a wheelchair to get around, and could barely move.

Smith, who is based out of Orlando, said that there was no reason for Williamson’s father to be in jail and that, the situation should be scrutinized by the public. He said it should definitely raise awareness about the jail.

He said not everyone in the jail is guilty and that false arrests absolutely do happen.

Especially when it comes to the faulty roadside presumptive test. A test in which chocolate, oregano, aspirin, gum, donut glaze, and many other items can produce a false positive for heroin, marijuana, cocaine, and other drugs.

Smith asked, “Where is the humanity?”

Smith said that the charges against Williamson’s father were dropped by the State Attorney’s Office when he was moved from the jail to the hospital.

Williamson said that he was told by MCSO that they do not inform any family of medical emergencies when an inmate removed from the jail for “security reasons.”

In one email, a family said that, with the help of an MCSO employee, they have filed a complaint against Woods with the FBI and Attorney General, but have yet to receive a response. The email stated that they are not hopeful since the AG and Woods endorse one another politically.

In an email from Tamika Johnson, she wrote, “Woods acts as the judge, jury, and executioner. To him, all inmates are animals, no matter if it’s a false arrest and his deputies are found at fault or not.”

Williamson said that he was not allowed to see his father before he died. He said his father died alone.

Heart of Florida Health Center was also not informed that Williamson was his father’s legal caregiver.

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Marion County Sheriff Billy Woods bans employees from wearing face masks

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Ocala mayor vetoed mask ordinance

Ocala Post

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August 10, 2020

386

The City of Ocala last week, in a 4-1 vote, passed an emergency measure to force citizens to wear face masks.

On Monday, August 10, Ocala Mayor Kent Guinn announced that he vetoed the ordinance.

The ordinance was greatly frowned upon by many citizens who felt that the ordinance violated their rights. Others felt it is a waste of resources.

Business owners said they felt they were being targeted and penalized.

Guinn said that the ordinance would be too difficult to enforce.

Guinn said, “The police chief and I have talked about it. We will never write a fine. We’re just not going to do it.”

Guinn went on to say that he is certain his decision to veto the ordinance would be challenged.

Masks will now be required in Ocala

Ocala Post

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August 5, 2020

652

ocala news, ocala post, mask mandate,

Last updated on August 10, 2020. Read the update here.

The City of Ocala, in a 4-1 vote, passed an emergency measure to force citizens to wear face masks.