Message from the Mayor
“As an Ocala native, I deeply care about what happens in our city. The people and places that make up this town are an important part of our community. Serving as your mayor for 10 years is both an honor and a privilege and I remain committed to staying connected to our citizens. My hope is that through this monthly newsletter, you will see the continuous progress of our city as we work together to make this city a great place to live, play and prosper.”
"Who's in the Box?"
OPD recently partnered with One Community, along with the Marion County Sheriff's Office, Marion County Children's Alliance, Marion County Public Schools, the City of Ocala and the Public Policy Institute, to present "Who's in the Box?" - a dramatic theatrical performance meant to educate teens on the serious consequences of gun violence.
Thank you to all involved in bringing this presentation to our community. The actors on stage did a fantastic job delivering a thought-provoking message about the reality of gun violence. It was a successful turnout and we thank everyone who could attend. *Photos courtesy of OPD's Facebook Page
U.S. Flag Retirement Box
If you'll recall, OPD launched a U.S. Flag Retirement Box in August 2021. Since then, over 1,000 American flags have been collected! The United States Flag Code prescribes proper flag retirement: “The flag, when it is in such condition that it is no longer a fitting emblem of display, should be destroyed in a dignified way, preferably by burning.” The U.S. Flag Retirement Box is located inside the main entrance of the police headquarters. Flags should be folded respectfully before being placed in the box and we accept flags during normal business hours.
After a flag has been collected, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 4209 will respectfully retire these flags through a solemn, ceremonial burning. Thank you, VFW Post 4209, for properly retiring our flags.
From Around the Community
As Fourth of July approaches, I just wanted to take a moment to wish everyone a safe and happy holiday. As we gather together with friends and family to celebrate our nation’s independence, let us never take for granted all the many blessings we enjoy in our country.
Humane Society of Marion County
The Humane Society of Marion County has a variety of dogs and cats available for adoption. In these trying times, many people are finding themselves unable to afford the costs associated with owning a pet. If you're able, please consider adding a new furry friend to your family. Or, if you were already planning on getting a pet, we encourage you to "adopt don't shop." There are many benefits to adopting a rescue animal: saving a dog’s life, prior house-training, fighting against puppy mills and paying less while getting a screened/vaccinated animal. Check out the animals for adoption at the Humane Society’s website.
CEO & Mayor's Summit
I recently had the honor to attend the annual Yale CEO Summit held in New York City. The CEO Summit offers a unique experience where CEOs from global organizations speak on their own practical knowledge in a candid and interactive manner. Some of the participants this year included Lloyd Blankfein, CEO Goldman Sachs, and Jane Fraser, CEO Citigroup. In addition to business professionals, 37 mayors from across the country attended. It was a neat experience to see people come together and agree on issues regardless of their background.
Kut Different, Inc.
Kut Different, Inc. is continuing to provide amazing opportunities for young Black men in Ocala. If you check out their Facebook page or website, it will touch your heart to see how they are impacting the lives of these young men. They are currently in the midst of their nine-week summer program which focuses on three areas:
-Education/Skill-Building
-Health & Wellness
-Exposure
The kids have learned about both physical and mental wellness, money management and even how to change the oil in a vehicle. They have also taken exposure trips to the World Equestrian Center, Waste Pro USA and Florida A&M University. I encourage everyone to donate and support their work if you are able. Organizations like Kut Different help make Ocala a better place for all its residents.
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