Partners In Education
The Public Education Foundation of Marion County is in need of your help to find partners for several deserving schools in our community through the Business Partner Program. The Business Partner program began in 1985 when then Superintendent John Smith reached out to the Ocala/Marion County Chamber of Commerce to create a joint venture uniting the school district and the local business community. Smith believed a successful education system was one where every stakeholder felt ownership and involvement in the system’s programs and services. Despite success over the years, 10 schools are still in need of a business partner. You can help by encouraging a local business to become a partner or by spreading the word on this wonderful opportunity. For additional information, contact Lauren Deiorio at Lauren.Deiorio@marion.k12.fl.us.
Lending A Hand
Fairbanks Construction recently had the privilege of surprising veteran Anthony Battaglia as the winner of the Baths for the Brave Bath Crash. Baths for the Brave is a national event where home improvement companies across the United States join forces to give a deserving veteran a new shower. Anthony is a Korean War Veteran who served in the Army as an engineer. After returning home, he continued to give back to his community but is now faced with limited mobility. Every time he showers, he and his wife, Rita, fear he will slip and injure himself further. On November 8, Fairbanks Construction will install a handicapped shower that will give Anthony his independence back and his wife peace of mind.
Welcome Aboard
Sholom Park recently welcomed a new park manager, Brian Devane. As the owner of Kingswood Nurseries in Ocala, Brian has more than 35 years of experience in the horticultural industry. He is actively involved in the Florida Nursery Growers and Landscape Association, having held every leadership position in its local chapter. As Sholom Park manager, Brian will lead the park staff in daily management and will work closely with its board of directors. He plans to continue practicing his philosophy of Florida-friendly landscaping, which entails growing, placing and caring for plants and trees that survive and thrive in North Central Florida.
Happy Anniversary!
Dr. Kenneth Lee, D.O., of Countryside Medical in Ocala, is happy to celebrate his 25th year treating patients. After completing a rotating internship in 1990 at Orlando General Hospital where he was chief intern and a residency in family practice at Florida Hospital, Dr. Lee received his board certification in family practice in 1992. With his wife at his side, Dr. Lee has run and operated Countryside Medical for 20 years. Dr. Lee is currently the president of the Medical Business Leaders Network and a member of the Florida Osteopathic Medical Association, the American Osteopathic Association and the American College of Family Practice. Countryside Medical is celebrating 20 years with a community open house on November 4 with music and giveaways.
