This is a thriller, can’t-put-down story of a breathless deadly race through the hidden chambers and tunnels in Washington DC. A tapestry of veiled history, codes and surprises The Lost Symbol is a re-examination of 2000 years of religious beliefs.  A follow-up to the Da Vinci Code this one will be impossible to forget.

Sickie

Sick time with kids is scary and sometimes funny.  Adam, broken out in a rash to match his red hair, looked and felt very bad. I looked and felt very bad too when I discovered the medicine I was feeding him to cure the allergy was actually causing the allergy!  The couch was where sick kids were placed, since it was difficult to climb into the top bunk with a bowl of chicken soup. If they were in the barf stage I fixed them a nice comfy bed in the bathtub.  One day a feverish Frank was mumbling “I hear hot dogs walking across the floor”  I just agreed and told him I’d keep them quiet.

The boys were seldom sick but when they were it was always the night I was supposed to be the speaker at a banquet or the night before we were to leave for vacation.  Once Merle explode in red dots just hours before company was expected for dinner.  I put up a sign on the door “Quarantine for distemper” but they came in anyway.  When Scott started to recover from a flu event he tried to milk it for all it’s worth. “Mom, bring me some water”, “Can’t you get up and get it yourself?” “I’m a little dizzy” he says. “You should be, when I was in there a few minutes ago you were climbing back up the tree by your window.” B-U-S-T-E-D

For Silver-place it in a plastic bag.

For Leather-shine with a banana, wipe off with clean cloth.

For Jewelry allergies-coat with clear nail polish where it touches skin.

Stuff the Trunk

Year One…..It started with a simple idea.  Help all the children at East Marion Elementary School by collection school supplies.  The FAC (Forest Advisory Council) supplied local businesses with boxes and a list of supplies that were most needed.  It was a great success.

Year Two……This year with the help of local businesses and COPS (Citizens On Patrol) this year was GREAT!!!  Again another simple idea, let’s do the boxes and use a pickup truck on weekend to collect supplies.  Then Ernie Barney of the COPS suggested we use their cars on the weekends.

The COPS and their cars brought real attention to the school supply drive.  Thus we call the drive “Stuff the Truck”.  We had ten businesses and the library help.  Ann and Charlie at Wigglers Bait and Tackle raised supplies, $150 by raffling off a rod and reel, and having a yard sale.  The COPS raised $500 and supplies.  In total with the help of the businesses and the Communit the FAC raised $1000 and many, many boxes of supplies.

All the money was spent on supplies for the children and delivered to the school.  It took a van and a pickup truck to carry them all to the school.  this was a community effort.  It took many hands to make this happen.  Thanks to all for your help! Let’s make next year even greater.

Hebrew-Roots-In-The-Forest

The meetings are held the 2nd and 4th Saturdays at 1:00 p.m. at the Forest Community Center.  The approaching Fall Holy Days: Yom Teruah, Yom Kippur, Sukkot.  For info contact: Ken or Jan Gordon at onespirit56@gmail.com

New Business

Celestial Florist and Gifts will now deliver in Forest Corners and surrounding Marion Co. area.  Same day service of cut flower, fresh arrangements, potted plants and gift baskets.  Credit cards accepted. Call Tilby 288-4444 or 1-800-flowers.

St. Joseph Events

A dinner will be held on Sat. Nov. 4th from 3 to 6 p.m. The menu is to be announced.  The affair will be held in St. Joseph’s hall.  Please join us. The St. Josephs Christmas Bazaar will be held on Dec. 5th Saturday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.  We will have tables of new and nearly new items, jewelry and bakery items inside.  There will be many more tables and rental tables.  If you want to rents a space your table will be $5.00 or use our tables for $10.  Please call 625-4222 for info.  Lunch will be available.

Get Your Motor Running

The 6th Annual Steel Horse Stampede motorcycle ride is gearing up for its 55 mile journey through Marion County on Nov. 7th under the leadership of Hospice of Marion County.  The event serves as a dfundraiser to benefit patient care at Hospice of Marion County.  Last year about 450 riders raised more than $12,000 in this event.  Participants may pre-register by calling 854-5218 or register the day of the event.  Cost is $25 for the first rider, $10 for a passenger; the donation includes a light breakfast, a barbeque lunch, door prizes and entertainment following the ride.

Flags

In various brilliant colors and symbols, flags have been importand designations throughout history.  We have country flags, state flags, city flags, organization flags and business logo flags.  If you have a boat you need to know navigational flags, if you go to the beach you need to know these beach condition flags:

• Green = Low Hazard
• Yellow – medium hazard
• Red – high hazard
• Purple – dangerous marine life
• Red with a black square – gale warning
• Double Red – hurricane

If you are a Nascar fan you know what these flags mean:

• Yellow – caution
• Black -signals a specific car to proceed to the pit
• Red – stop race
• White- final lap
• Checkered- end of race.

As you look around, you will see Florida flags, the F.O.E. flag, church flags plus many seasonal flags hanging on porches.

Thrift Stores

Hospice of Marion County Thrift stores will host Lion’s Club vision-hearing-diabetes screenings.  Dates scheduled are:

• Oct 3 – Silver Springs Shores store on Maricam from 10 to 2
• Oct 17 – at the Belleview store in the K-Mart shopping center from 10 to 1
• Oct 24 at the Jasmine square store on R. 200 from 10 to 2

November is National Hospice Month. Hopice is holding a Shop Hot Nov. 2nd – 14th. Get a passport at one of the Hospice thrift stores.  Get the passport stamped and then visit the other 2 stores and get it stamped there.  At the last location deposit it in a special basket for a grand prize drawing.

HELP Agency

Lutheran student Fellowship, a group of college students from Florida and Georgia, will be coming to the Forest the first weekend of October to do a work project with the HELP Agency.  Led by students from Gainesville, they will stay overnight and have meals at Forest Lutheran.

Children’s Diversity Program

The White Buffalo Society plans to participate in the 8th annual 1 Ocala 1 America for the Children Diversity Program to be held Thur. Oct. 8th at 6 p.m. at the E.D. Crosky recreation Center in Ocala.  the WBS has participated each year under the direction of Chief Two Ponies KLebes and their education teams by presenting Native American educational programs through the visual and performing arts.  The event is free and open to the public.  For participation or attendance you can call Ira Bethea at 427-6498.

100th Birthday

Kolo Harrison Bodine extends a very warm thank you to all! Kolo was so pleased, honored and impressed by the hundreds of caring relatives, friends, neighbors and former students that attended her 100th birthday celebration in Aug. You lit up her life!!! The news media was grand!

Red Hats

The first Ladies of the Forest chapter of the Red Hat Society visited our local Eagles Aerie 4216 and Aux. for a grand dinner, giggles, music, dance and all had a wonderful time!  How nice to have such a club in our area.  Their hospitality was outstanding.  There is room for membership in the Aerie and Aux. Call the club for info.

Forest Library Feature Films

• Oct. 7 – “On the Town” a musical with Gene Kelly and Frank Sinatra
• Oct. 21 – “Ghostbusters” When you see a Ghost who do you call?
• Nov. 18 – “Phantom of the Opera” Who is it that lurks in the shadows?
• Dec. 2 – “The Nutcracker Ballet”
• Dec. 16 – “The Polar Express”

Movies are shown on Wednesday afternoons at 2 PM FREE at the Forest Public library… Free Popcorn too!  The Library will be closed on Wednesday Nov. 11th for Veterans day. Lets all honor our veterans by flying the Red, White and Blue.

Welcome Dirty Worms

Dirty worms is a new company in Ocklawaha offering home grown worm castings, one of the best and cleanest fertilizers available.  Promotes growth in gardens, lawns and container plants. Contact Debby at 62-2637 for worm castings, worms or worm cocoons.

Creepy Crafts

Friday October 30th the Forest Public Library is offering a creepy crafts afternoon.  It will start at 2pm. Call the library for additional information. Free!

Family Paint Out

The Monroe Regional hospital is looking for artists to paint ceiling tiles, size 20×20 or 20×40 to bring cheer to the patients and staff.  The Holcomb/Linares family of artists Bennie, Cherylanne and Michaela Linares along with Gramma Holcomb spent one weekend painting 5 large scenes and 5 smaller tiles that features Florida scenes and wildlife.  They were delivered just before school and college began in Vermont.  They provide the tiles.

Advertising

If you have a business and want to get your ad out there, ask someone to put a magnetic business sign on their car while they are driving around. Maybe a $20 per month compensation would be a good price for both of you. A good trade.

Thank You

A big Thank You from Lou Struzinski for the privilege of providing glasses and hearing aids to the people of the Forest through the Lions Club over the years.

New Section

In the January edition we will have a special section for Ocklawaha and one for Belleview, news and ads from those areas to expand our coverage. Help us by sending any news items to dianaharris@ocaIa.com. Thank you for your continued support over the last 6 years.

Another New Business

A new thrift shop has opened in Ocklawaha.!! Budget furniture is next to Ma Barkers Bar and has a great selection of gently used furniture, beds and housewares. Layaways available. M-Th 10-4, Fri. and Sat. 10-5. 352-246-9948

Help COPS Give back to the Troops

The COPS patrol will be collecting items to send to the troops for the holidays. Non-food items are in short supply in many areas where oour troops are stationed. Items such as toothpaste, tooth brushes, liquid soap, deodorant, feminine supplies, writing materials, DVD’s, books shampoo, lip balm, etc. are sorely needed. Sat. Oct. 24 from 9 to ??? we will be collecting money and items out in the Winn Dixie parking lot. Please help us with a donation. Boxes will be sent the first of No. in plenty of time for the holidays and to avoid the rush. For more information call Jackie (288-9655) or Emie(625-6816).

The Final Countdown

Nov. 12thwill be the last of the space shuttle launches this year. Next year there will be only five more, so try to get out to the cape and see them. It is an experience you won’t forget. The dates are Feb. 4, Mar. 18, May 14, July 29 and Sept. 16

Choral Celebration

Our annual Choral Celebration will be held Friday Dec. 11 from 7 to 9 at the community center parking lot. Santa Claus will be visiting with his bag of toys for little kids. Area organizations will provide cookies and hot cocoa. Please bring a chair, we have only 70 and there are usually over 200 people. Area church choirs and other groups will entertain us with Christmas music followed by the candlight singing of Silent Night.

Haunted House

The Haunted Pirate Ship will be Sat. Oct. 31 from 7 to 9 in the community center. Treat ot trunk is held in the parking lot from 5 to 7 by area businesses and organizations. A part of the haunted house will be available at that time for the “under seven” group.

Girls Night Out

If you like to scrapbook, make home made greeting cards, or just want to get away and do your favorite craft for a few hours, you can! Join us for the GNO every 4th Friday of the month thru the winter in the Community Center. Start time 5 p.m. I will supply a two page layout for scrapbookers to make or, if you’re not a scrapbooker, do 3 greeting cards and matching envelopes. Fill the rest of the evening with your choice of crafts. Cost $10. Now is the time to get started on those homemade gifts and decorations for the holidays. Don’t miss the fun, callJackie at 288-9655 for more information.

After School Program…

Has started at Forest Lakes Park. True to his word David Houk and the Turning Point Mentoring Center started the after school program in the FLP Community Center this Sept. It has taken a long time to get to this point. Lots of hard work was done by the community, David, his family, his church and it’s supporters. Now, each afternoon 15 or more children come to the center to do their homework with the help of a tutor. Then they have a snack or two, play organized games or watch movies until closing at 6:45. After a successful fund raising campaign here in the Park, the long anticipated basketball court was completed. It will be enjoyed by young and old alike.  Stop in and visit the Center, see the great work that is being done for our children. Talk to David or Elizabeth if you would like your child in this program. There is still room.

Cruise in at the Diner

A new classic car “Cruise In” is starting at the Dam Diner on 464-C by the Ocklawaha Lock/Dam on Friday nights. Come just to look or show off your old car. Throw in a lawn chair or two and spin a few old yarns about the good old days. Cruise starts at 4, goes to 8 p.m. For more info call Russ 288-9655 or the Diner 288-8332.

Advertising rates

The advertising price for a space in Forest Comers Quarterly will go up to $15 for the Jan. issue, or $55 per year, a savings of $5. It still remains the lowest priced advertising in the area. Now in our 6th year, we offer our readers many articles of interest and enjoy wider distribution.

Fishing in the Forest

We used to have 600 lakes in the Forest, many of them have become swamps. We still have many lakes for fishing, it just depends on how, when or where you fish. The Ocklawaha River is a nice place for medium or small crafts. There are also several lakes with boat ramps; Half Moon, Mill Dam, Lake Bryant, Fore Lake and Lake Eaton. Most charge fees for launching. For the elderly and handicapped we have fishing piers with easy access. There are many small lakes and ponds where you can fish from shore or put in your small boats. Our best fishing is when the weather is cool. You can get honest information about the best places from Wigglers Bait Shop 625-1156. Wildcat is one of the most family friendly Lakes. It has a wonderful pier and boat ramp and has been one of the hottest spots for fishing this year. Remember to read your regulations; some lakes are catch and release, usually for black bass. The Moss Bluff Dam is another spot to fish. Ron at Moss Bluff Bait can fill you in onthe catches there. We are a very loving community and are glad you are supporting our beautiful Forest.

Moving around ••••

Wigglers have moved to building at the comer of Lakota Rd. (NE 145th Ave Rd.) and Rt. 40, Marie’s has moved to Rt. 40 where Jakes used to be. There is a new manager at the dairy, now called Cafe in B tween. Go visit them all .

Ghost Towns

Third in our series of old communities in the area that no longer exist is St. Francis. Once called Old Towne, St. Francis lies along the St. Johns River in the southern part of the Ocala National Forest. At one time it was a booming steamboat port with a postoffice open from 1888 to 1909. “The Florida Facts” was the weekly newspaper. St. Francis had a hotel, a health resort, a sanitarium, a general store, a warehouse on the wharf and hundreds of acres of citrus. The devastating  freeze of 1894 destroyed the economy of the town and people gradually moved on to greener pastures. It is now the site for a hiking trail that passes a natural undisturbed spring. There remain parts of an old levee and an old railroad bed.

Forest COPS Program

It’s been a busy summer for the COPS program. Even with the snowbirds away we were able to patrol.  791 hours in June, 696 in July and 641 in Aug. Three teams have been doing security checks all summer and will continue until alI residents return from vacation. COPS  joined forces with FAC to collect more than $1000 and lots of school supplies for the “Stuff The Trunk” drive last month. We want to thank everyone who dropped either $$$ or supplies in our buckets. All money and supplies went to East Marion Elementary school. In August we were sad to see Lt. Mark Keller transfer to a new position in the Silver Springs District, but Lt. Al Ramirez has taken his place and is very supportive of our group. Over the summer we had 12 of our patrol attend the Volunteer Emergency Response Training course. With this additional training they will be able to further assist the Sheriff’s Dept. with local disasters, medical emergencies, traffic control and searches.  Have 4 hours a month you can spare? Join the Patrol and help make a difference in your community . For info calI 402-6040

Where to Take Visitors

1. Take a hike and picnic at Alexander Springs, south of rt. 40 east of rt. 19. This is a beautiful natural spring with swimming, canoeing and camping. $4
2. Go to Orange Blossom Opry in Weirsdale. Thur. Fri. and Sat. evenings, $7-$25. Excellent country music!!
3. Go to Market of Marion Flea Market. no charge.
4. Spend the day at Silver Springs, a good 4-5 hours to enjoy the treasure right in our back yard. $34
5. Try a unique Carriage tour of the area horse farms. Ocala carriage.
6. Go fishing at Carney Island, Rt. 25 outside Ocklawaha. Playground, picnic, swimming beach.
7. Visit Don Garlits drag racing museum, 1-75 at exit 341.

Something for everyone.

Too Short

As a child the summer days were endless, three whole months 10 play. But the summers were too short. In your twenties the summer days were endless, three whole months to fill with kids at home. But the summers were too short. In your forties the summer days were endless, three whole months of peace to enjoy. But the summers were too short. In your old age the summers are endless, three whole months of loneliness to fill. But the summers are too short.  author unknown

A Dog Tale

My dog’s “mischievous behavior” is a constant trial to me, and continuous entertainment for my family.  After years of quiet greyhounds and intelligent Aussies, Lacey has managed to tear up everything they never touched. She has eaten ink cartridges, photos, newspapers, books and blankets. She has learned how to leap over tall fences with a single bound and burrow under others, but after a brief run-around in the neighborhood she is back, grinning. Her redeeming features are total friendliness with everyone, her love of stuffed animals and her love to cuddle, plus her one brilliant blue eye. While having company recently we returned home to discover all our shoes where scattered all over the yard. I found this “Easter egg hunt” in the dark with a flashlight, and I’m sure she was grinning all the while.

Christ Cafe is Back

Come meet your friends at the Christ Cafe at the Forest United Methodist Church.  Open Fridays from 11:30 to 1 pm they offer a delicious lunch to all that stop in.  Love offering accepted.

Trunk or Treat

The Friends of the Forest Public Library invite young and old to come in costume to our annual “Trunk or Treat”.  Held this year on Sat. Oct. 31st from 5 to 7 in the community parking lot in front of the Forest public Library.  Prizes for costumes and treats for all.  If you are interesed in being a “vendor” please contact a member of the Friends or leave your name and number at the Library.

Kids Klub

Wednesday Nov. 4th, the Kids Klub will meet at the Forest Public Library.  This is an after school event running from 2:30 to 4pm.  Crafts, games and fun for school age children.  No preregistration, just come.

Another New Business

A new thrift shop has opened in Ocklawaha. Budget furniture is next to Ma Barkers Bar and has a great selection of gently used furniture, beds and housewares. Layaway is available. Open M-Th 10-4, Fri. and Sat. 10-5 246-9948

Calendar

October

• 3 -Flea Market Comm. Ctr. Art Show 9-12
• 7 -SHARE sign-up
• 9 -Cornerstone Cafe 7p.m. Comm. Ctr.
• 12-Forest Advisory Council 7 p.m. Comm. Ctr.
• 14-Friends of Forest library10:30, library
• 23 -Art Club 10 Comm. Ctr.
• 24 -SHARE pickup
• 31-Haunted House, 7 – 9 Trick or Trunk 5-7

November

• 4-SHARE signup
• 7-Flea Market
• 9 -Forest Advisory Council 7 p.m.
• 11 -Friends of Forest Library 10:30 library
• 13 -Cornerstone Cafe 7 p.rn. Comm. Ctr
• 21 -SHARE Pickup 28 -Art Oub potluck 10:00

December

• 2 SHARE signup
• 5 -Flea Market & the Ocala Christmas Parade 5:30
• 9 -Friends of Forest Library 10:30 Library
• 11-Choral Celebration 7 p.m.
• 14-Forest Advisory Council 7 p.m.
• 19-SHARE pickup

Additional monthly events held at the Community Center:

• FaithFamily Fellowship Church every Sun.a.m. and Thur. p.m.
• County Clinic 2nd and last Wed.
• Torah Hebrew classes 2nd and 4th Sat.

Area events:
Oct. 3-Oct0berfest-Silver Springs
Oct. 9-11 Mt. Dora Bicycle Festival
Oct. 10-Marion Co. Chili cook off
Oct. 24- Harmonicats- Orange Blossom Opry
Oct. 24- Mclntosh 1890 Festival
Oct. 24-25- Craft Fair-Mt. Dora
Oct. 30- Nov. 1-Hot Air Balloon Festival-Apopka
Oct. 31- Nov. 1- Micanopy Fall Festival
Nov. 7- Steel Horse Stampede for Hospice
Nov. 7- Corvette Show-Silver Springs
Dec. 13- Harley Owners Toy Run – Silver Springs

Halloween Events:

Oct. weekends:

• Halloween Horror Nights-Universal
• Howl-o-scream-Busch Gardens
• Mickeys-not-so-scary Halloween-Disney
• Halloween Spooktacular-Sea World
• Ghost and Gravestone tour-St. Augustine
• Fright Nights-Silver Springs
• Haunted Pirate Ship-Comm. Ctr.,Forest Comers

50 years ago: The day the music died, Buddy Holly died in a plane crash.

40 years ago: Woodstock was held in N.Y.

• 2 Cups packed brown sugar
• 2 Table spoons of Butter
• 2 Cups Pecan Halves
• 3/4 Cup evaporated milk

In heavy mid-size pan mix the brown sugar and evaporated milk.  Cook and stir over medium heat to boiling.  Clip a candy thermometer to side of pan, cook and stir until it reaches 234 degrees (About 10 minutes).  Stir in butter and pecans, let mixture stand 10 minutes then beat candy vigorously.  Very quickly drop by spoonful onto foil.  If candy becomes too stiff, stir in a few drops of water. Cool and store tightly covered.  Makes about 20.  Kids can help make this for holiday gifts.

Anna was conceived as a bone marrow match for her sister Kate who had suffered from Leukemia since childhood.  Throughout Anna’s young life, she had to undergo countless surgeries, transfusions and invasive tests so her sister can live.  But when she reaches her teens, she decides she isn’t going to do it anymore.  A provocative and inspirational story that raises a lot of questions.

Does it Have a Motor?
Girls have dolls and boys have tools, if a boy gets his hands on a screwdriver you can be sure something is going to be dismantled. It’s great when they learn how to fix things, but why do they have to leave so MANY things in pieces, and blow all those fuses? A neighbor was working on his water heater and 7 year old Adam was taking it all in (including the blue language ). Finally he mumbled “Does it have a motor?” and ever since whenever something breaks we all say “Does it have a motor?” As they all took things apart they learned to mutate… the sweeper sported hair dryer parts, the wash machine had auto heater hose and the cars ….. oh my.  The motors were dissected, transmissions arrayed on the front porch, dashes were furred and wheels were traded back and forth. During one major “overhaul” an 8 cylinder motor was set on an old riding mower frame temporarily. A new fuel oil deliveryman was filling our tank and kept looking at the motor… As he got ready to leave he said “Bet that will really fly when you fire it up.”

Family Fun Day at the Park

Come enjoy the day at Carney Island on July 24th from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Just show your library card at the gate for free admission to the park. Marion County Public Libraries will provide a beverage and cookies but you have to bring your own lunch and towls. Enjoy!

Vegetable Garden Expo

Marion County Master Gardeners present their first Vegetable Garden expo on Saturday August 29th from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. It will take place at the Ag Center on Old Jacksonville Road. There will be indoor seminars on various vegetables and pest control. Outdoor Seminars will include hydroponics, composting, micro irrigation and gardening in a small space. In addition there will be vendors all eager to help you with your fall planting.

Funtime Thursdays at the Forest Public Library

There will be quite a variety of programs, Thursday afternoons at 2 P.M. at the Forest Public Library. Art Van Go(gh) will happen on the 23rd and we will show that the Forest has Talent on July 30th with the talent show “The Forest Follies”, with a chance for prizes and fame!

Back to School Raffle

The Friends of the Forest Public Library are not meeting during the summer months however they are offering a Back to School Supply Raffle. This can be seen at the Forest Public Library. The winning ticket will be drawn July 30th at the Funtime Talent Show. Tickets are $.50. The money raised will go toward items needed in the new library.

A Sock Puppet Workshop

The Forest Public Library will have a Gocks and Punk Sock Puppet Workshop for Tweens and Teens. This will happen on August 13th at 2 P.M.

Be Creative at your Library

Tuesday mornings are turned over the the Arts at the Forest Public Library. the programs start at 10:30 a.m. “Now you see it” on July 21st and “Its a Wrap” on July 28th end the Tuesday programs.

Christ Cafe on Vacation

Christ Cafe at the Forest United Methodish Church will be closed for the months of July & August. They thank you all for your patronage and say “See you in September”.

Scrapbook Crops

Claire Wilder sponsors a Scrap booking Crop Night, usually the 3rd Friday of each month. You bring in the project you are working on. Sometimes there are demonstrations and all are interested in telling you about what they are doing. The crops start at 6 P.M. at the Ag Center, 2232 NE Jacksonville Rd. Ocala. There is a $5.00 donation for Breast Cancer.

Free Movies at the Forest Public Library

The Friends of the Forest Public Library are offering 2 free movies a month. The movies start at 2 P.M. and are viewed on a wide screen. There is free popcorn and an occasional door prize. The dates of the movies are Aug 5th: National Treasure Pt. 2, Aug. 19th Pirates of the Caribbean Pt. 3, Sept. dates and movies to be announced. If there is a movie you would like to see please tell a member of the Library staff.

Air Condition Warning

Do not turn on your A/C as soon as you enter your car. Open the door and windows before you do. The plastics in your car, when heated, emit Benzene, a carcinogen. Parked outdoors in the sun with temperatures above 60 degrees the Benzene level can go up to 200-4000mg, 40 times the level considered acceptable. People who get in their car, keeping the windows closed will inhale an excessive amount of the toxin.

Wigglers has Moved

It has taken quite awhile but Wigglers Bait shop has moved into their new location on Hwy. 40. Come visit them. Here’s wishin “Good Fishin”.

Birding Classes

Are you curious about the little brown bird in your bird feeder? Are you wondering about the wood pecker living in your palm tree? Join us to learn about birds native to Marion County by participating in our three hour class that will give you the basics to enjoy the fastest growing outdoor activity in N. America …… Bird Watching.

Classes offered monthly from 9 a.m. until noon at Brick City Adventure Park located at 1211 SE 22 Rd. in Ocala. Upcoming classes are scheduled for Aug. 29th. The program is only $10.00 per person or $15.00 per couple. To register please contact Mation County Parks and Recreation at 111 SE 215 Ave Ocala Phone 671-8560.

Ghost Towns

This area is dotted with sites of old communities no longer in existence. Originally surrounding citrus plantations, turpentine camps, railway camps or sawmills, their need has gone and the forest has reclaimed the once thriving areas.

This is the second in the series.

Kerr City: One of the best known old towns is Kerr City located on the north shore of Lake Kerr. It was founded in the early 1880’s by several northern businessmen and settled by Friends of the Quaker Faith. There was a hotel, sawmill, general store, newspaper print shop, dentist, doctor, real estate office, drug store, two schools and numerous citrus groves. After over a hundred years the old stage coach road that runs through Ocala National Forest remains the same. Kerr City was the second town to be platted in Marion County.

An elegant three story hotel was built in 1885 and became “The Place” to go. A faith healer and his followers, including several widows, leased rooms in the hotel in 1907 and after soliciting a good amount of money from the women he disappeared. When the widows discovered they had been tricked they thought the devil had invaded the hotel and felt obliged to remove it, so they burned the hotel down. Listed with the National Register of Historic Places Kerr City is now a gated area with vacation rental cottages on beautiful Lake Kerr where the grand old Victorian homes once stood.

Team up and Chill Out

Join us July 15, 16 and 17th from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. as we chill out and think cool thoughts at our Christmas in July Sale at all three Hospice of Marion County Thrift stores. They are located at 10325 SE Hwy 441 (KMart plaza) Belleview, 6114 SE St. Rd. 200 (Jasmine Square) and 7578 SE Maricamp Rd (Heather Island Plaza) in the Shores. The net income from the thrift Stores goes directly to patient care.

COPS

Our total number of volunteer hours for the month of May was 874 hours. Some of you may have noticed we have a radar machine that is set up in various locations. It is used to deter speeding and let people be aware of the speed limit. We also have five new members in the last quarter, which brings out membership total to 80. We recently have received training in the CERT program (Citizens emergency response Team), which is designed to provide personal contact with seniors who live alone or have special needs that we should be aware of in order to serve and protect our seniors. If there is anyone you know who is in need of this service contact the Marion County Sheriffs office. We are still acepting new members and welcome anyone that can put in at least 4 hours a month.

Kayak Outings

Marion County Parks and Recreation are holding summer adult kayak outings that range from 3 to 5 hours. The program fee includes your kayak, paddles, life jacket, snacks, guide and ground transportation for one way trips. Launch times are 9:30 a.m. and participants should arrive between 45 to 60 minutes prior to scheduled launch. Call 352-671-8560 to register.

• Friday July 10 – Ocklawaha River $20
• Saturday July 18 – Silver River $25
• Saturday August 8 – Withlacoochee River $25
• Friday August 14 – Ocklawaha River $20
• Saturday August 22 – Ocklawaha River $25

One Hundredth Birthday

Kolo Harrison Bodine, a resident of Marion County since 1953, will celebrate her One Hundredth Birthday on August 17, 2009. She is a retired school teacher having taught 40 years, 18 of whick were at east Marion School in Lynne. She is a 56 year member of the First United Methodist Church of Ocala. Upon her retirement she took up quilting and has since hand quilted over 80 quilts. Mrs. Bodine is a member of the Pine Needles Quilting Club of Silver Springs; ADK, Fidelis Chapter, and First Lady of the Forest red Hat Society. She was named “Woman of the Year” in 2007 by the Forest Advisory Council.

Mrs. Bodine has three children, seven grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. The family hopes that those who know her will help celebrate this very special birthday by sending a card. Friends and Mrs. Bodines former East Marion students are invited to join her family at a reception from 2:00 to 5:00 on Saturday August 15, 2009.

In the Forest

Due to ongoing construction at Juniper Springs and Salt Springs the only springs available for public swimming are Silver Glen north of rt. 40 and Alexander Springs south of rt. 40. Mill Dam is open for lake swimming as is Fore Lake. If you are interest in canoing go to Alexander Springs, Juniper Springs, Silver Glen Spring or Salt Springs for canoe rentals. There are Off Highway Vehicle trails in the north around Lake Delancy, in the south by Wandering Wiregrass and around the bombing range is Centennial trail. Other recreation spots are many campgrounds, a hundred mile horseback trail and a multitude of lake with boat ramps for fishing. So many activities right in our backyard.

Art Club

Forest Art Club meets the 4th Friday of each month at 10 a.m. at the Community Center. July 24th we will hold a pastel session, kids invited too. Charge is $2.50. Aug. 28th Oil Painting, Sept. 25th Reverse Glass painted jug. Oct. 23rd Stamping Calendar. Come join the fun, you can paint your own project, you don’t have to do our programs. Note: we have lost two of our members recently, Yvonne and Evelyn; you will be missed.

Sheila Says……

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the world. The incidence of melanoma has nearly tripled in the last 4 decades. The good news is that most skin cancers are easily cured, but most cases could be prevented by limiting the skin’s exposure to ultraviolet radiation. The risks of skin cancer increases with age, family history and past sunburns as a child. Every malignant skin tumor in time becomes visible on the skins surface making skin cancer the only type of cancer that is almost always detectable in it’s early, curable stages. Prompt detection and treatment of skin cancer is equivalent to cure.

Skin cancer falls into 2 major categories: melanoma and non-melanoma. Melanoma is an extremely rapid growing life-threatening cancer. An easy way to remember signs of melanoma is ABCD’s: Asymmetry, irregular Borders, change in Color, Diameter larger than a pencil eraser. The two non-melanoma skin tumors are basal cell and squamous cell, which are rarely life-threatening.

Prevention: Avoid intense sun exposure by staying out of the sun from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. If outside wear a hat, long sleeves, trousers and sunglasses that block UV radiation. Use sunscreen that protects against UVA/UVB rays with a SPF of 15 or higher whenever you do go outside. Consider taking a B-complex vitamin, vitamin B contains a compound called PABA, the active ingredient in many suncreens. Report suspicous skin lesions to a doctor.

A Loyal East Marion Friend

Tommy Needham will be missed. Early in the 1980’s East Marion lost their rescue fire services and community center. Along came Tommy Needham, a Marion County Commissioner to our rescue, helping us to get the very needed firehouse, sheriffs station, community center, tag office and library. Tommy kept an eye on us and guided us until May 2009 when he journeyed to meet his wife Nell in Heaven. I am sure he is busy helping another community, planning another Veterans Park and baseball diamond. Our friend will be missed and always remembered for his Caring and Sharing.

Fortune Cookie

If we all threw our problems in a pile and saw everyones else’s we’d grab ours back.

Fishing in the Forest

July: Bream, bluegill and shellcrackers will be prolific at Lake Bryant, one of the hot spots this summer. Bass is also available, fish deeper for this one.

August: Lake Bryant will see the fishermen drifting for specks. Bass fishing is still good. Wildcat Lake is great for bass but rememeber it’s a catch and release bass lake. (From Fat Daddy’s Bait)

New Directory

The new Directory for the Forest Corners area is available from FAC members. It includes all the local businesses, churches and organizations.

Forest Advisory Council News

We enjoyed a visit in June from Marion County Parks and Recreation Representatives to provide an update on the library construction and plans. In July we will welcome County Commissioner Barbara Fitos to our regular meeting. Starting the first of July through Aug. 14 we will be holding our second “Stuff the Trunk” program to collect school supplies for our East Marion Students. Collection boxes have been placed at Wigglers, BB&T Bank, Regions Bank, Forest Library, East Marion Self Storage, Big Pines Hardware, Maries Restaurant, CVS and Winn Dixie.

Suggested Supplies include: Glue sticks, Crayola crayons, markers, pencils, copy paper, dry erase markers, wide rule note book paper, color pencils, composition book, Duo Tang Folder with pockets, 12 oz. hand sanitizer, Kleenex and any other supplies donted will be welcomed. Last year we collected 7 large bins full of supplies and the children and teachers appreciated it very much. Crime Watch Patrol Cars will be on location on weekends to assist in our effort to collect “Stuff the Trunk” items to present to the school for distribution.

In October we will be holding our Haunted House, in November working on our float for the Ocala Christmas Parade and in December we will hold our huge Choral Celebration. So our year will be full. Join us and get involved with your