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Paychecks for Patriots
job fair returns to Citrus County - Dec. 3
Veterans events also set
in Marion and Levy counties
By Laura Byrnes, APR, CPRC
Director of Communications CareerSource Citrus Levy Marion
Published Nov. 6, 2025 at 4 p.m.
     OCALA – CareerSource Citrus Levy Marion and the Citrus County Board of County Commissioners have teamed up to connect veterans with employment opportunities as part of the statewide Paychecks for Patriots: Powered by Hope Florida initiative.

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     Citrus County’s Paychecks for Patriots is set for Wednesday, Dec. 3 from 10 a.m. to noon at the Citrus County Government Building, 3600 W. Sovereign Path, Suite 166, in Lecanto.
     While the job fair is free and open to all job seekers, priority access is given for the first hour to veterans and active service members as well as their military families.
     For fastest access, attendees are encouraged to register in advance at bit.ly/CCP4P2025.
     Henry Ayala, retired United States Army veteran and a local veteran employment representative for CareerSource CLM, highlighted the value veterans bring to the workforce and the importance of the Paychecks for Patriots job fair.
      “Veterans, service members, and their families possess a unique blend of skills and unwavering dedication, qualities our employers deeply respect and actively seek,” Ayala said. “CareerSource CLM is honored to support those veterans who live in Citrus County who have served our country with pride and sacrifice.”
     The annual initiative is presented in partnership with CareerSource Florida, FloridaCommerce, Hope Florida, and the Florida Department of Veteran Affairs. Similar job fairs and events are slated throughout CareerSource Florida’s 21 workforce development regions, including:
     Paychecks for Patriots of Marion County Thursday, Nov. 13 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Marion County Public Library Headquarters, 2720 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala.
     Veterans Resource Fair Thursday, Dec. 11 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Levy County Government Center Cafeteria, 310 School St., Bronson.
     Ayala noted that CareerSource CLM offers Priority of Service year-round to veterans and eligible spouses at all CareerSource CLM career centers. Fee-free staff assistance, job referral and placement, as well as resources and other employment services are available weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Career Centers in Ocala, Lecanto, and Chiefland.
     Florida veterans may also apply for open positions via a special online employment and resources portal at https://veteran.employflorida.com.
     For more information about Paychecks for Patriots or CareerSource CLM’s Veterans Services, call 800-434-JOBS (5627), ext. 2225.

UF IFAS Marine Research

A boat marked with UF/IFAS Marine Research is seen Nov. 5 under the former fishing pier relative near to the FWC Senator George Kirkpatrick Marine Laboratory. Two people were heard below the inoperable pier at what sounded like what might have been the scraping and collection of barnacles for research.

Meanwhile, some pelicans were conducting marine research from the sky, before heading to another area in search of fish and more.
Photos by Jeff M. Hardison © Nov. 6, 2025 at 5 p.m. 
 

Gilchrist County roadwork planned

County Commissioner Darrell Smith is seen in action on Monday night.

Story, Photos and Video By Jeff M. Hardison © Nov. 5, 2025 at 4:30 p.m.
All Copyrights Protected By Federal Civil Law
Do Not Copy and Paste to Social Media or Elsewhere
     TRENTON – the four members of the Gilchrist County Board of County Commissioners present for the Monday evening (Nov. 3) meeting voted 4-0 to approve five chip and seal paving projects.
     The idea of paving a mile of road (5,280 feet), with one mile in each of the five commissioners’ districts has been discussed for some weeks now, and County Administrator Bobby Crosby gathered the facts from each of the five commissioners – Sharon Langford (Dist. 1), Bill Martin (Dist. 2), Darrell Smith (Dist. 3), Tommy Langford (Dist. 4) and Kenrick Thomas (Dist. 5).


Commissioner Kenrick Thomas Smith is seen in action on Monday night.


Vice Chairman Bill Martin is seen in action on Monday night.


Gilchrist County resident Mike Holbrook speaks about improving two miles of Southwest 10th Street rather than one mile.


     Commissioner Sharon Langford was absent from the meeting.
     Crosby noted the following projects, which had been selected with one in each district, with one priority being the amount of grading and regrading each of these required, thereby lessening that maintenance expense. The County Commission hopes to continue this practice in the future.
     The approved roads follow:
     ● Northwest Fifth Avenue from County Road 138 North to Northwest 117th Place (6,600 feet);
     ● Southwest 10th Street from County Road 341 West to Southwest 70th Avenue (5,280 feet);
     ● Southeast 80th Street from Southeast 80th Avenue to Southeast 90th Avenue (5,280 feet);
     ● Southeast 80th Avenue from State Road 26 South to Southeast 80th Street (6,600 feet); and
     ● Southwest 70th Street from County Road 341 West to County Road 232 (5,280 feet),
     The total quoted price for the five projects from Asphalt Paving System is $492,734.96, according to records.
     Crosby said the County Commission budgeted $500,000 this fiscal year for this set of projects.
     These roads were approved 4-0, with a 10 percent contingency to be budgeted afterward if required. The motion to adopt the list was made by Commissioner Martin and seconded by Commissioner Thomas.
     Gilchrist County resident Mike Holbrook was heard on this matter.


To see and hear the video of Mike Holbrook speaking about a road he would like to see on the list, click on the PHOTO. He speaks about brush on the side of the road, holes formed and reappearing after rain and then being splashed through. He said the whole two miles of Southwest 10th Avenue rather than just the one mile of that road from County Road 341 West to Southwest 70th Avenue would be better. 
Video By Jeff M. Hardison – All Rights Reserved

     The commissioners heard his request after they had voted for the one mile this year. Perhaps, the second mile will happen in the next fiscal year.

Three Social Security Myths:
What You Need To Know
Published Nov. 3, 2025 at 11 a.m.
     NEWBERRY -- Social Security is a cornerstone of retirement planning for millions of Americans. 
     But with so much information floating around, it's easy to get confused about how the program really works. Here are three common myths that could affect your retirement planning.
     Myth 1: Social Security is going bankrupt. Based on current projections, Social Security isn't going bankrupt. According to the 2025 Social Security Trustees Report, if no changes are made to the program, it will need to reduce benefits in 2033, paying about 77 cents per dollar of the projected benefit. 
     This might sound concerning, but Congress has options to fix the shortfall. They could remove the earnings cap on payroll taxes, increase the tax rate or adjust retirement ages. With 79% of Americans opposed to cutting Social Security benefits (Pew Research Center 2024), lawmakers may feel pressure to act before 2033. 
     • What you can do: Focus on what you control. Social Security typically replaces about 40% of pre-retirement income for median earners who claim at full retirement, per the Social Security Administration in 2025. The rest must come from savings. Consider working with a financial advisor to make sure you're saving enough. And don't claim benefits early just because you're worried about the program's future – early claiming can permanently reduce your monthly payments up to 30%.
     Myth 2: Budget cuts will delay or reduce your benefits. Budget cuts and staff reductions at the Social Security Administration won't change your benefit amount. Only Congress can alter how benefits are calculated. According to the Social Security Administration, payments to those currently receiving benefits and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) won't be delayed. You may, however, face longer wait times when calling or visiting Social Security offices.
     • What you can do: When you're ready to apply for benefits, start the process up to four months early. Use online tools when possible and have all your documents ready. If you need to visit an office, schedule an appointment in advance.
     Myth 3: Social Security benefits are no longer taxed. The One Big Beautiful Bill Act didn't eliminate taxes on Social Security benefits. If your combined income exceeds certain thresholds, you'll still owe taxes on part of your benefits.
     The good news: The new law created a temporary deduction – available through 2028 – for people 65 and older. Whether you're an itemizer or non-itemizer, you can deduct $6,000 per person if your modified adjusted gross income is $75,000 or less for singles ($150,000 for couples). It phases down for income above these thresholds and fully phases out at $175,000 for single filers ($250,000 for joint filers). 
     • What you can do: Understand whether you qualify for the new deduction. Consider selectively using tax-advantaged accounts like Roth IRAs to help keep your taxable income lower, and make sure you have the right amount withheld from Social Security payments.
     Don't let Social Security myths derail your retirement planning. Focus on saving adequately and making informed decisions. When in doubt, consult with a financial professional for help navigating these complex decisions.
     Publisher’s Note: This article was written by Edward Jones for use by Edward Jones Financial Advisor - Sheila K. Smith and Edward Jones Financial Advisor Ashlyn Burtle, 25349 West Newberry Road (State Road 26), in Newberry. Phone 352-472-2776.

Levy County reduces
take-home vehicles from 43 to 18
Information Provided
Published Oct. 31, 2025 at 7 p.m.
     BRONSON -- The Levy County Board of County Commissioners has reduced employee take-home vehicles from 43 to 18 — a 58 percent cut — following a review led by Levy County Manager Mary-Ellen Harper.
     The reduction means lower fuel and maintenance costs, less wear on county assets, and a smaller environmental footprint — all while maintaining essential public services.
     Early savings are already visible: Public Works used fuel budget savings to replace two outdated lawn mowers.
      “This initiative reflects our commitment to responsible management and transparency,” County Commission Chair Desiree Mills said. “We’re making sure every vehicle and every dollar truly serves the people of Levy County.”

Convenience store drugs
target young people
New synthetic drugs sold
are ‘On the Edge of Legal’

Dixie County Anti-Drug Coalition Executive Director Katrina VanAernam introduces Robert Wells, executive director of the Gilchrist Prevention Coalition. Wells gave the opening prayer before the luncheon meeting.

Story and Photos By Jeff M. Hardison © Oct. 23, 2025 at 8 p.m.
All Copyrights Protected By Federal Civil Law
Do Not Copy and Paste to Social Media or Elsewhere
     DIXIE COUNTY – The Dixie County Anti-Drug Coalition’s Town Hall Meeting held at The Putnam Lodge on Wednesday afternoon (Oct. 22) showed people there are drugs being sold in convenience stores – beyond alcohol and nicotine.
     Another but of news on a happier note was that housing for some people is happening in Dixie County, and there are four stalwart employees remaining at the Dixie County Anti-Drug Coalition.

This display shows THC and other drugs being sold in convenience stores and elsewhere in Florda, and the target market is young people, even those younger than 21 years old.


Dixie County Anti-Drug Coalition Executive Director Katrina VanAernam introduces (left) is seen with Community Care Alliance (CCA) Chief Executive Officer Kathleen Roberts. The CCA is like the coalition of coalitions. It covers 23 North Florida counties. It covers five of Florida's 20 judicial circuits.


Garlic butter shrimp pasta, Kahlua BBQ pork, real marinated chicken breast, mashed potatoes with mushroom gravy are seen here. Also, at the Putnam Lodge for this event there were rolls with butter, assorted desserts, iced tea and other beverages. Ed Pivacek (left), who is co-owner of The Putnam Lodge with his wife Beverly, is seen in the background.


Ed Pivacek (left), who is co-owner of The Putnam Lodge with his wife Beverly, is seen with Chef Brandon Greene who is standing behind the Putnam 1927 Tossed Salad. All of the people who ate the amazing food were extremely pleased. The journalist covering this event did not get to eat from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the event due to having to work, as well as being at the last possible table to be called to gather a plate buffet style.


Some of the 67 attendees are seen here. The great free meal drew a crowd.


People serve themselves at the buffet that allowed people to travel down both sides of the serving tables.


Michelle Snyder (speaking into the microphone) who has established a place with 135 beds in Dixie County to help people to get off drugs in this residential facility. The location of the building is secret.


Sheila Frierson (left) is seen with Dixie County Anti-Drug Coalition Executive Director Katrina VanAernam as the people learn about free Narcan dispensaries in the county.


Sharonda Wilson (wearing a yellow sweater), one of the four DCADC workers, is seen during the event.


Jennifer Gregory, one of the four DCADC workers, is seen during the event.


Community Care Alliance Chief Executive Officer Kathleen Roberts shares data that shows Dixie County is among the least healthy places in this region of Florida when looking at the factors used to determine levels of heath.

     Before CCA Chief Executive Officer Kathleen Roberts shared data concerning the sale of mind-altering drugs at convenience stores and elsewhere in Dixie County, DCADC Executive Director VanAernam spoke about the beauty of The Putnam Lodge.
     Not only is this a beautiful place to stay, but there is excellent dining with cloth tablecloths and cloth napkins that are part of the ambiance for people who enjoy meals there on Thursdays through Saturdays from 5 to 9 p.m. – when it is not just the lodge guest who are invited to dine there, but it is open for everyone to enjoy meals there then.
     Also, before the main presentation, Karen VanAernam and others spoke about upcoming events – especially in regard to Cross City Restore and Renew.
     Michele Snyder told about 135 beds that will be available for people who are rehabilitating away from drugs in Dixie County.
     CCA CEO Roberts spoke on the topic of “On the Edge of Legal,” where she told about THC, nitrous oxide and other drugs that are being sold in convenience stores.
     Roberts shared an extensive amount of data to prove the dangers that exist. She spoke about “gas station heroin” being made illegal to sell in Florida now, but that it still can be found in some convenience stores.
     The method to help combat this problem of near-legal drugs, Roberts said, will be with everyone working together toward the same mission – to save lives as well as the quality of life in the community.
     By bringing in partners from the law enforcement community, first responders, health providers, leaders from schools, and from throughout the business community, Roberts thinks the Dixie County community can help people recover from drug problems and can help the young people know the dangers from drug abuse.
     “Together, we can really do a lot.”
      She said the Florida National Guard provided troops, as did other partners, who helped the CCA survey stores for products being marketed and sold in stores, bars, country clubs, bowling alleys, parks, public events, tourist attractions and elsewhere.
Call To Action
     Roberts listed four methods people can apply in the effort to deal with vendors who sell mind-altering drugs.
1. Strengthen Zoning and Licensing Regulations
     Restrict the placement of alcohol, tobacco, vape, and kratom retailers near schools, parks, daycares, and youth-serving institutions.
     Limit the density of ATOD retailers in vulnerable or underserved neighborhoods to reduce environmental risk factors.
2. Enhance Retailer Compliance and Training
     Mandate consistent display of age-restriction and health warning signage both inside and outside establishments.
     Provide standardized training for retailers on ID verification, signage requirements, and responsible marketing practices.
3. Regulate Youth-Targeted Marketing
     Prohibit advertising that includes youth imagery, cartoon characters, or is placed below three feet in height.
     Ban promotional materials and merchandise that encourage drinking games or normalize substance use among youth.
4. Increase Surveillance and Enforcement
     Conduct regular compliance checks and environmental scans to monitor adherence to advertising and accessibility laws.
     Prioritize enforcement in areas with high youth foot traffic or elevated retailer density.