Ocala Gazette | January 13 - January 19, 2023

West Ocala Resource Opens CF receives $17 million boost its nursing program

By Jennifer Hunt Murty jennifer@ocalagazette.com

The College of Central Florida has received a $17 million infusion to bolster its nursing program, thanks to an incentive from the state legislature and the Citrus County Hospital District. It is one of the largest gift and grant commitments in the college’s history.

In an effort to combat the growing nursing shortage in Florida, legislators created the Linking Industry to Nursing Education (LINE) Fund during the 2022 session in hopes of incentivizing collaboration between nursing education programs and healthcare partners. The state grant provides dollar-for-dollar matches to bolster nursing educators’ efforts to raise money from partnering healthcare providers.

Dr. Jim Henningsen, president of the College of Central Florida, told the Gazette that he was looking for partners to be first in line with a request benefiting CF even before Gov. Ron DeSantis signed the appropriations bill.

By Susan Smiley-Height susan@magnoliamediaco.com

Abright morning sun beamed down on hundreds of people gathered Tuesday, Jan. 10, for the ribbon cutting ceremony to dedicate the Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place. But neither the sun’s rays nor the lime green ribbon could be outdone by Mary Sue Rich and Ruth E. Reed—both beautifully outfitted in bright red attire— and the absolute shining stars of the festive event.

The naming of the new community center and the property on which it sits are designated in honor of Rich, a longtime Ocala City Councilwoman, and Reed, a retired teacher and

community activist who led a years-long campaign against pollution from the Royal Oak Charcoal plant and campaigned for citizens of the area to have the right to breathe fresh air.

On Tuesday, Rich and Reed were front and center in a ceremony to pay tribute to their leadership and advocacy and to show off the impressive new community resource.

It was a long road that led to the special day.

Rich represented District 2 on the Ocala City Council, in which the former charcoal plant was located, from 1995 to 2019. Seen as an asset in 1975, when it opened and provided jobs, the plant was later considered to have a detrimental effect. Residents said soot and ash covered

their vehicles overnight and coated the outsides, and sometimes even seeped into the interiors, of their homes. Though not proven medically, many residents who developed chronic respiratory conditions or cancer blamed their health issues on the emissions and pollution.

Reed has lived just down the road from the site of the plant for years. In 1996, while beginning to investigate the plant’s permitting and alleged infractions, she formed the Neighborhood Citizens of Northwest Ocala (NCNO) advocacy group.

“We were determined that we were going to do something about it. We were tired of living like that for over 30 years. We had a right to clean air, a right to breathe,”

she said, adding that they finally “began to catch them not doing what they were supposed to do.”

The group got some grant money and got in touch with a national environmental organization and lobbied to have the plant clean up its operation. The City Council wrote letters to the Department of Environmental Protection and elected officials. The DEP found nine potential violations, including that the plant was emitting a hazardous amount of the pollutant methanol and not reporting it in permit applications. Additional violations also were found. In December 2005, the

“Citrus County Hospital District had originally considered committing $3 million, but when news of the state’s incentive came in, they called back and said they were increasing it to $10.3 million,” he said.

Having such a large matching donor to present to the state so quickly paid off because CF received the largest share of LINE funds among the 26 colleges and universities that applied for this competitive grant. The amount is more than one-third of the available $19 million and more than 3.5 times larger than the second-largest grant of $1.9 million.

The Citrus County Hospital District had a caveat that its money be used for the benefit of was that Citrus County residents. This means that only Citrus County residents would be open for the nursing scholarships (the details are being

Local high school students recognized for academic achievements

By Allen Barney allen@ocalagazette.com

Five Marion County 11th graders have been honored as Sunshine State Scholars, recognized among their peers in Florida for their excellence in mathematics and science.

Jullian Hollis (Belleview High School), Olivia Bittinger (Dunnellon High School),

Devi Sharma (Forest High School), Rishit Shaquib (Vanguard High School) and Caleb Lombardo (West Port High School) were all honored during the Marion County School Board meeting Tuesday night.

“They were all recommended by their principal and leadership team because they met a special criteria,’’ explained Danielle Livengood, the

school district’s director of curriculum, instruction and digital learning. “They all have interest in the areas of science, technology, engineering and mathematics, or STEM. They all have a minimum 3.9 GPA and have all participated in at least 25 hours of community service.

“It’s exciting to recognize those students involved in

MCPS Juniors Olivia Bittinger (Dunnellon, second from left) and Caleb Lombardo (West Port, second from right) are this year’s MCPS Sunshine State Scholars. School Board members recognized them along with alternate Devi Sharma (Forest, far right) and nominees Rishit Shaquib (Vanguard, far left) and Julian Hollis (Belleview, center) [Supplied]

Subscribers

A ribbon cutting was held Tuesday for the Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place, which will offer activities and programs for youth, families and seniors.

Mary Sue Rich, fourth from left, and Ruth Reed celebrate together after cutting the ribbon during the ribbon cutting ceremony for the Mary Sue Rich Community Center At Reed Place in Ocala on Tuesday, Jan. 10, 2023. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2023.

CF gets $17 million

Continued from page A1

ironed out) created through an endowment.

However, the state’s $6.7 million grant will be used to update equipment and increase staffing across all the college’s nursing facilities.

According to the Florida Department of Education, which will administer the grant, “Funds may be used to award scholarships to students who meet the residency for tuition purposes requirements, recruit additional faculty, purchase equipment, and support simulation centers to advance high-quality nursing education programs throughout the state.”

The grant cannot be used for the

construction of new buildings. Henningsen told the Gazette CF has had other grants to support the remodeling of nursing facilities in Citrus and Marion County campuses and is waiting for architectural plans for a new 45,000-square-foot nursing facility in Marion County.

“Now, more than ever, we need to recruit and train qualified nurses to meet the growing demands of our local community,” said Henningsen. “The Citrus County Hospital Board’s commitment of $10.3 million in May 2022 made CF eligible for this support from the state, and the combined investment significantly increases CF’s capacity to prepare students for high-demand, high-wage nursing

careers. We applaud the insight of the Hospital Board and appreciate the transformational gift that allows CF to lead the way in meeting this critical workforce shortage.

CF offers two options for nursing degrees. One is an associate degree in nursing program, which prepares graduates to become registered nurses, and bridge programs for licensed practical nurses and paramedics to become RNs. The other is a bachelor of science in nursing program designed to prepare RNs for advanced clinical positions and nursing faculty positions.

“CF is one of the most affordable colleges in the country and this unprecedented funding will make a high-quality, high-demand nursing career accessible to even more students in our community,” said Henningsen.

Henningsen says he’s hopeful that the Legislature will fund the LINE grant again to continue incentivizing health care providers to invest in the college’s nursing program.

For more information about CF’s nursing programs, visit www.CF.edu/nursing.

Exceptional students

Continued from page A1

our advanced studies,’’ she continued. “They have all taken dual-enrollment courses in math or science, advanced placement courses, advanced technology courses and/or AICE or International baccalaureate mathematics and science courses.”

Other criteria points include:

• Combined score of 1300 or higher on the SAT

• Composite score of 30 or higher on the ACT

• Score of 3.0 or higher on one or more Advanced Placement Tests

• Consistently scored level 4 or 5 on Mathematics and Science End-of-Course assessments

• Short Essay describing plans to pursue a STEMrelated field, academic passion, postsecondary plans and what the student thinks is the greatest challenge America has right now in the areas of STEM.

Bittinger and Lombardo will travel to Orlando in April to take part in the Sunshine State Scholars program, which lasts two days and will honor each scholar. It will also give the students the opportunity to meet with the Senior Chancellor and representatives from Florida’s colleges to talk about education opportunities at those schools, according to the Florida Department of Education website.

According to Livengood, Bittinger and Lombardo went through an interview process with a local STEM business member to earn the chance to go to Orlando in April.

With each student’s principal and parents in attendance, Lombardo said the Pledge of Allegiance before having to leave for a soccer match against Dunnellon in the MCIAC Boys’ soccer tournament at Forest High School.

“It just goes to show how well-rounded they are and they’re still maintaining an incredibly strong schedule,” Livengood said after noting that Bittinger and Shaquib also play a sport.

Board Chair Allison Campbell spoke with excitement and a sense of pride about the students and everyone who is helping them.

“Thank you to these amazing students and all the diligent work you are putting forth as well as their terrific principals, who all came in support of them. We really appreciate all that you do, and you are why we are here. Helping students succeed is our whole purpose and were so grateful for all the work you are putting in,” she said.

Board member Lori Conrad also thanked the students for their hard work.

“I’m excited about our Sunshine State Scholars and what they represent. I’m so happy they were here tonight to share with us,” she said.

OBITUARY

Sabra L. Young

Sabra L. Young, 81, passed on December 4th, 2022, at home in O’Brien, to which she had recently moved from Ocala to reside with her youngest daughter Patty.

She was born on March, 4th, 1941, in Raleigh N.C. Her beloved husband William Young preceded her in passing in March of 2004. We know that they have had the most Joyous reunion.

Sabra was a very loving, and caring mother, grandmother and friend. She was known to everyone as “GRAMMY.”

She held various degrees, licenses and certi cates for Real Estate, Business, Accounting and #1 Mom.

She is survived by her children: Derek of Tampa, Lisa of Quincy and Patty of O’Brien; grandchildren Heather, Ashley, Hunter and Beau; and a few great grandchildren. She will be extremely missed but never forgotten and forever in our hearts.

Services will be held at Good Shepherd Memorial Gardens in Ocala on Friday, January 13th, at 2 p.m. All are welcome.

“The press was to serve the governed, not the governors.”

- U.S. Supreme Court Justice Hugo Black in New York Times Co. v. United States (1971)

Publisher Jennifer Hunt Murty jennifer@ocalagazette.com

Evelyn Anderson Account Executive evelyn@magnoliamediaco.com

Bruce Ackerman Photography Editor bruce@ocalagazette.com

Allen Barney Reporter allen@ocalagazette.com

Caroline Brauchler Reporter caroline@ocalagazette.com

Rosemarie Dowell Reporter rosemarie@ocalagazette.com

Ron Eddy Account Executive ron@magnoliamediaco.com

Julie Garisto Reporter julie@magnoliamediaco.com

Makayla Gray Reporter makayla@ocalagazette.com

Greg Hamilton Editor greg@magnoliamediaco.com

Susan Smiley-Height Editor susan@magnoliamediaco.com

Belea Keeney Reporter belea@magnoliamediaco.com

Cheryl Specht Client Services Guru cheryl@magnoliamediaco.com

Amy Harbert Graphic Designer amy@magnoliamediaco.com

News tips tips@ocalagazette.com

Distribution Inquiries info@ocalagazette.com

Follow us @ocalagazette

Our mission is to inform and uplift our readers by reporting on the events, issues and stories that shape Ocala with accuracy, fairness and passion. We also strive to serve as a forum where all voices can be heard and to chronicle our community’s history.

ocalagazette.com

©2023 Ocala Gazette, LLC

Ocala Gazette is published weekly by Magnolia Media Company, LLC, PO Box 188, Ocala, FL 34478. Application to Mail at Periodicals Postage Prices is Pending at Ocala, FL. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Ocala Gazette, PO Box 188, Ocala, FL 34478.

Share your news

The Ocala Gazette invites you to share your important news events with the community. Email your submissions to info@ocalagazette.com. Please include your name and contact information on the submission. Letters to the editor: 200 words or less.

Honorable Mentions: 150 words or less about an individual or organization accomplishment in the business, education, community service, athletics or other area of endeavor. Attach a photo of the individual or group being honored, if available.

Upcoming events: Are you holding a charitable or community event that is open to the public? Include the organization hosting the event as well as the time, date and a brief description of the event, along with registration information or other important instructions.

• News tips: Include whatever information you consider relevant.

“CF is one of the most affordable colleges in the country and this unprecedented funding will make a high-quality, high-demand nursing career accessible to even more students in our community.”

Dr. Jim Henningsen President of the College of Central Florida

New community center

Continued from page A1

Roswell, Georgia-based Royal Oak Enterprises announced it would close the plant by the end of February 2006 due to higher operating costs and environmental issues caused by the poor quality of the raw materials used in the production of charcoal, reports stated.

Taking the microphone on Tuesday, Reed told the audience, “I couldn’t breathe at night without putting a washcloth on my face.”

She recounted some of the challenges and thanked God for the end result and for the beautiful day.

“I never shall forget this moment and this hour,” Reed said.

“I am so, so honored,” Rich said when she addressed the crowd, which applauded loudly several times during her remarks. This facility, she said, will “change the face of this community.”

Yvonne Hayes Hinson, State Representative for District 21, which includes part of Marion County, spoke about what she said was an “incredible community center, named after two incredible leaders and change-makers.”

Speaking to Rich, she said, “You are a pillar in this community and the generations to come who will use this center will know your name. This indeed is a wonderful legacy.”

Hinson also said she planned to soon host resource meetings at the center for “returning citizens” and said to Rich, “I know your passion for parolees. We are going to be talking to them about how to get their fees paid, how to apply for housing, how to get jobs, get trained for jobs, the whole nine yards,” to which the audience and Rich responded with applause.

“Ruth Reed,” she continued, “we thank you for your efforts and advocacy for the land this center is built on. It takes a special sense of duty to put the word in to make this kind of change.”

“This is an investment in our future,” Hinson added. “It’s a place of education, of health, of empowerment and enrichment.”

Hinson also hinted at hoping to move her office to the new center in the future.

The ceremony included a number of other speakers, such as county and city officials. As soon as the speeches ended and the green ribbon was snipped, droves of people poured into the front doors of the center.

The 41,750-square-foot, two-story building, at 1812 NW 21st Ave., includes designated indoor space for senior, youth and family programs; banquet/ event space; fitness equipment and an indoor walking track; two full basketball courts; a library and multi-purpose studio rooms.

The Sankofa Public Library is an official branch of the Marion County Public Library System. Sankofa is a West African word described as a symbol of taking from the past what is good and bringing it into the present to make positive progress through knowledge.

To fund the center, the city paid $8 million from reserves, through a 20-year loan with a 2 percent interest rate. Another $2.3 million came from the Marion County Hospital District, which will oversee nutrition and health initiatives at the center through its Active Marion Project and Fitness and Nutrition in Schools. The Junior League of Ocala provided $50,000 for an indoor playground.

Reed Place spans 24.5 acres in the West Ocala Community Redevelopment Area. The community center is sited on approximately 10 of those acres. The city hopes to redevelop the remaining 14.5 acres as a mixed-use concept as defined in the West Ocala Community Plan. The city’s Ocala Wetland Recharge Park is nearby.

To learn more, visit ocalafl.org

Grand Opening Celebration

The City of Ocala Recreation and Parks Department will host a grand opening celebration at the new Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 21, with tours, activities, games and prizes. The event is free and open to the public. Guests can register for memberships, which are free for city residents and $30 per year for non-residents. Center hours are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. For more information, call (352) 368-5517.

Photos By Bruce Ackerman Ocala Gazette

Ocala City Manager Pete Lee listens.

People gather inside during the ribbon cutting ceremony for the Mary Sue Rich Community Center At Reed Place in Ocala on Tuesday, Jan. 10, 2023.

Former Ocala City Manager Sandra Wilson, third from right, walks with Jay Musleh of the Ocala City Council, second from left, and Preston Pooser, the director of Ocala Parks and Recreation, second from right. [Thomas Fletcher/Special To The Ocala Gazette]. 2023

Whitfield Jenkins, left, talks with Mary Sue Rich, third from left, and and Ruth Reed, right, as Craig Curry of the Marion County Commission, second from left, looks on.

“Ruth Reed, we thank you for your efforts and advocacy for the land this center is built on. It takes a special sense of duty to put the word in to make this kind of change.”

Yvonne Hayes Hinson State Representative for District 21

NAACP hosts discussion on gun violence

“This is a universal epidemic,’’ Boynton said. “We are disengaged with young people. We need to bring all the programs for youth under one umbrella agency. This is not a church issue, this is a community (and a) village issue.”

Sonicka David and Brittney Jenkins, both local social workers, offered input.

David said members of the community “need to start with themselves” and get help before reaching out to youth.

Ocala Police Chief Mike Balken discussed the importance of teaching kids early “the consequences of their actions.”

Balken added an “incredible opportunity to influence the cycle of violence” is often missed when shooting victims being treated in a hospital refuse to speak to authorities but could be approached by other members of the community.

He pointed out that gunshot victims may go on to use a gun in a violent crime themselves.

“Scared Straight” prisoner narrative-type program brought into the local schools and more education about the “sophisticated” local gangs.

Dennis McFatten, director of the Safe Schools office for the Marion County school district, said he is compiling information on the local gangs including jargon and rules.

“There are a lot of gangs here,” he said.

Cain Davis of the community organization Strategic Community Alliance, Inc. called for more support for parents because the situation is “killing the Black community” when children are uncontrolled. He said often a youth with $6,000 or more illegally obtained monthly income is running the household.

Meeting participants offered opinions including the need for understanding the language of youth, mentoring, male role models and youth “have no one to talk to.”

By Andy Filmore Correspondent

Concerned residents, clergy members, law enforcement and community leaders gathered Tuesday night to discuss ways to stem the tide of gun violence and deaths that is sweeping through predominantly African American neighborhoods of West Ocala.

The town hall style meeting, called by the Marion County Chapter of the NAACP, follows a New Year’s Day shooting at Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard and Southwest Fourth Street, which claimed the lives of Davonta Harris, 30, and Abdul Hakeem Van Croskey, 24. Four other victims, whose names have not been released by authorities, were wounded.

No arrests have yet been announced in that case.

According to the Ocala Police Department, eight males died as a result of gun violence in the city last year.

The meeting was held at the Second Bethlehem Baptist Association Ocala Theological Seminary and Bible College, located adjacent to Martin Luther King Jr. Recreation Complex on Northwest Fourth Street.

Rev. Jerone Gamble, first vice president of the NAACP and director of the seminary, served as moderator.

“We’re here to make a difference in the survival of our young folks,’’ he said.

“When there is a gun violence tragedy in our community, we gather to pray but then nothing happens. We must take specific action to protect the youth we have failed. We can do better than just talk.’’

Gamble mentioned a recent tragedy in Virginia in which a 6-year-old boy is accused of shooting his teacher and wondered how a youngster “can conceive and execute” such an attack.

Pointing to what he called a lack of cultural and arts background among young people, as well as broken homes and “kids out of control,” he said gun violence is a “public health” issue more so than just “folks getting shot.”

Many in the audience of roughly 80 people spoke up about the problem.

Audrey Bell, who operates Bridge to Hope transportation service, said growing up, she tried to “make her mother proud.”

“Where does all the anger come from (in young people) and why? What is the cause?” she said.

“We’ve lost a lot of integrity,”she said.

Bell said the community must look for “what is permanent and lasting” to help youth.

Pastor Victor Boynton of Calvary Missionary Baptist Church in Fairfield reminded the audience of a 16-year-old boy who was shot multiple times and left at a gravesite in Reddick in November, and 15-year-old member of his church who was also the victim of gun violence.

OPD REPORTS OPIOID-RELATED DEATHS SHOWED SLIGHT DROP IN 2022

from opioid overdoses in 2022, compared to 44 casualties by the end of 2021. The Public Safety Opioid Response Efforts report noted there were 22% fewer opioid responses by the OPD in 2022 than in 2021. In 2022, the agency responded to 239 overdoses.

Statistics show casualties in Marion County from opioid overdoses used to be significantly lower in years past than they are now. Five people experienced fatal overdoses in the entire year of 2018, a drastic change from the previous four years, where there were zero fatal opioid overdoses documented.

By Makayla Gray makayla@ocalagazette.com

The number of fatal opioid overdoses in Ocala dropped slightly in 2022 from the previous year but remained significantly higher than the handful of cases just four years ago, according to the Ocala Police Department.

In a report to the Ocala City Council on Jan. 3, Police Chief Mike Balken said there were 42 deaths

Balken also shared information on other efforts the department has been addressing in recent weeks. The slide features additional statistics regarding Narcan Deployments and Amnesty Participants.

The chief explained the expanded implementation of Coordinated Opioid Recovery (CORE) in 2022 aimed to lower the number of drugrelated casualties in all of Florida.

Based on the OPD report, these strategies may be taking effect.

Balken said the New Year’s Day shootings investigation was “moving forward” but did not comment otherwise on the case. He added that the OPD tracks gun activity closely and “has prevented a tremendous amount of gun violence.”

Bishop Eric Lightsey of Draw All Men Ministries Church in Ocala suggested the community join with city leaders and invite help from the designers of the Duval County/Jacksonville anti-gang program, which he said caused a significant reduction in gang violence there.

The 2019 Comprehensive Gang Reduction Strategy, a joint effort by the City of Jacksonville, Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office and State Attorney’s Office, detailed in a report at www.SAO4th.com, states gangs, often known as “entertainment groups,” typically involve “young Black males” anywhere from age 12 to 24.

“Gang affiliation tends to be based in geographic relationships and individuals ‘move-up’ through the ranks of the gang by engaging in violent crime” and “are not motivated by financial profit but instead by respect and protecting one’s reputation,” the report states.

Brian McIntosh, pastor of Old Ship of Zion Church near Reddick, said people should “get their blue jeans and get into the community and make a difference.”

“We have to go to the streets,” he said.

Dezmond Wheeler of Progress Requires Growth said he would like to see “actionable steps” in the community to involve youth in working with technology rather than just being users of technology.

Adrian Vereen said he’d like to see a

Rev. Eric Cummings, pastor of the New Zion Missionary Baptist Church and a member of the Marion County School Board, decried the “reactionary” response to gun violence which then “dies down.”

Cummings, who is also a corrections officer, offered steps to take back neighborhoods, where he said especially elderly people often live in fear, including education, city and county involvement and “home-grown” youth support groups like a midnight basketball program.

The Marion County Children’s Alliance (MCAA) has community and youth programs already in place. Monica Bryant spoke about the organization’s programs including the Family Violence Prevention Task Force and its work in the community. She said a proposed gun violence task force would be a “new separate work group.”

She cited 13 deaths in Marion County last year as a result of domestic violence.

MCCA’s Supporting Kids Involving Parents Program (SKIP) offers mentoring and tutoring to “divert youth from entering the juvenile justice system.”

MCCA SKIP program members Karim Martin and Kelley Windham also joined the meeting.

Windham said about 450 children have been involved in the SKIP program since 2019 and about 100 children have been involved in a more recent program related to teens and gun violence.

Gamble feels a Gun Violence Task Force as proposed by Bryant could be “an ongoing support in the community to reduce and eliminate” gun violence.

ADMINISTRATIVE HEARING ON WEC JOCKEY CLUB APPROVAL CANCELED

Ocala Gazette Staff report

Aformal administrative hearing challenging the Marion County commission’s recent approval of the WEC Jockey Club Planned Unit Development (PUD) scheduled for Thursday and Friday has been canceled, according to a case filing on the state’s Department of Administrative Hearing’s website.

Christopher Rison, a senior planner with Marion County Growth Services, was scheduled to give expert testimony on behalf of Marion County and Golden Ocala Equestrian Land, LLC., owners of the property, but he is unavailable due to the death of his mother Jan. 4.

The filing also notes that Rison was

previously unable to meet with the county to prepare for the hearing due to his mother’s illness.

Land use attorney Ralf Brookes filed the request for the hearing in July on behalf of the citizens’ group Save Our Rural Area (SORA) and landowners living adjacent to and near the WEC Jockey Club following the Marion County Board of County Commissioners’ June 21 approval of the massive mixed-use project on 1,029 acres along rural County Road 318.

The suit challenges the county’s adoption of amendments to its Comprehensive Plan, which allowed a rezoning of the land and a subsequent vote approving the PUD.

The hearing will be rescheduled.

NAACP meeting on Jan. 10 [Ocala Gazette]

File photo: Ocala Police Chief Mike Balken speaks during the City of Ocala Strategic Planning meeting at the Hilton Garden Inn in downtown Ocala on Tuesday, March 22, 2022. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2022.

File photo: Chris Rison, the county senior planner, speaks during the Marion County Commission meeting on the WEC Jockey Club development at the McPherson Governmental Complex in Ocala on Tuesday, June 21, 2022.

[Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2022.

Pioneering Ocala leader dies at 102

Dr. King had dreamed…white children and black children were going to school together and playing together. It was wonderful to see,” he said.

Some key life advice he said he was able to impart to black students was to be “adjustable.”

“Are you familiar with an adjustable wrench?” he asked. “It adjusts to different sizes. And that’s how life is. I lived my life that way…adjustable. I had to adjust to different situations, no matter what it was.”

Cynthia Wilson-Graham has authored and co-authored several books about the African American community in Marion County, including, in 2017, “Walking by Faith,” a biography of James.

James’ birthplace and lifelong home is directly adjacent to US 441 near County Road 326. Wilson-Graham said he “was born, raised and passed away on the same ground.”

care and that’s when I started to help take care of him,” Brown said.

She said in his final days, she and caregivers Grandvera Bryant and Bill Young Jr. were his constant companions.

When asked about life lessons James may have imparted to her, Brown mentioned the “legacy of the adjustable wrench, that whatever happens in life you have to adjust to it.”

She said she always loved that James would call her every morning with a joke or a riddle.

“His most spiritual belief was always, ‘Do unto others as you would have others do unto you,’” she said.

James is survived by his brother Grady James; niece Patricia James; nephew Chris James; nephew Roscoe Addison, whom he raised, and his wife Jacqueline Addison; in addition to many other family members and friends.

By Ocala Gazette Staff

William James started the morning of Jan. 4 off like he did most other days of his 102 years, by praying for all of the people driving on U.S. Highway 441 in front of his home north of Ocala.

James, who was born Jan. 1, 1921, passed away the evening of Jan. 4. During his life, he was known as a hard worker, mentor, humanitarian and devout Christian.

James was the Marion County School District’s first Black custodial supervisor and oversaw 17 schools. Along the way he mentored a great many students, including during the turbulent years of integration. He retired in 1986, after 27 years with Marion County Public Schools.

Among his many honors and accolades was receiving the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Commemorative Commission’s Legacy Pioneer Award, having the city of Ocala’s William James Start! walking trail on Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue named for him and being an inaugural inductee of the Legacy Park Community Service Recognition Program. He was an honorary deputy with the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, where he served on advisory boards and volunteered to minister to inmates

at the county jail. He also was a recipient of the Marion County NAACP’s Frank Pinkston Humanitarian Award.

In 2014, James was given a Lifetime Achievement Award when he was one of 10 inductees into the Marion County Black History Museum Hall of Fame. The notes from that event indicate that James’ father died in 1929, leaving his mother to raise him and his three siblings. After the eighth grade, he quit school to work to help his family. He worked as a laborer until he was 21 and then worked at a brick factory.

After 12 years there, in 1954, he became a custodian at Howard High School.

By the mid-1960s, James was the head custodian at Fessenden Academy, one of the first local schools for Black students.

A few years later, when Marion County Public Schools integrated, his supervisors recognized that James’ rapport with students would be a valuable asset to help the first Black students to attend North Marion High School.

In an article in our sister publication, “Ocala Style Magazine,” James talked about integration.

“The students knew me. I was at North Marion High School when the county schools were integrated. It was something I had prayed for, and I thanked God that I was privileged to see it. It was just like

She described him as “a trailblazer, yet soft spoken and humble.”

“Mr. James had a limited education, but he was always ready to help any individual succeed in life. Mr. James was a humanitarian at heart,” she said.

Ocala educator and civil rights advocate Sylvia Jones said of her longtime friend, “Mr. James was a giant; not only in stature but also in his level of dedication. His life of commitment to the Ocala community will forever be remembered and reflected in the lives of all the families and many good deeds and words of wisdom he bestowed upon us. We were blessed to have had him in our presence for so long.”

James was a very social person and enjoyed working with community groups and leaders, such as Jacalyn Brown, found of Flip Flop Support Groups, which works with families of those who are incarcerated, and who later became one of his caregivers.

Brown said she met James in October of 2009 when they both attended a community meeting at the Ocala Police Department and they later went out for a meal and became fast friends. When the COVID-19 pandemic came along, James was not able to be as socially active as he liked to be, including serving as a chaplain with the support group.

“When that was gone, he needed more

Community grieves

Almost two hundred people gathered on the front lawn of NW 9th Street home on Jan. 5 for a balloon release/prayer vigil held in the memorial of Da’monta Harris, 30, who was shot and killed during a New Year’s Day block party that claimed the lives of two men and sent four others to area hospitals. In attendance were the two young children of Harris, his family, friends, a few elected officials from the Marion County School District and the City of Ocala Council, and at least one high school coach.

After a short sermon by Darrell Tolbert of L-Jaireh Church, people were asked to make a circle to release the balloons and say in unison “We love you ’Monta.”

The event was organized by War 4 Peace.

Brown said a funeral service is set for 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 14, at the House of God Church Keith Dominion, 2830 NW 27th Ave., Ocala, and that it will be live-streamed.

William James was the school district’s first Black custodial supervisor and was a respected leader during school integration.

William James [Meagan Gumpert Photography]

William James [Meagan Gumpert Photography]

Teresa Williams, center, the mother of shooting victim Da’monta Harris, consoles his children during a prayer vigil held by War Cry 4 Peace for her son on Northwest 9th Street in Ocala on Thursday, Jan. 5, 2023.

People hold balloons as they pay their respect to shooting victim Da’monta Harris.

Photos By Bruce Ackerman Ocala Gazette

By Caroline Brauchler caroline@ocalagazette.com

Charlie Stone is no stranger to holding public office. So, when the District 24 seat of the Florida House of Representatives was vacated, the veteran Republican legislator felt he would be the most experienced person for the job.

Stone, 74, is running in a special election for the seat vacated by Ocala Republican Joe Harding after his resignation. Harding resigned on Dec. 8 after being indicted by a federal grand jury on several counts of fraud based on illegally obtaining pandemic-related loans. The primary special election, declared by the governor, will take place on March 7. A general special election will take place on May 16 if needed.

From 2012-2020, Stone served in the Florida House for District 22 before it was redistricted. He was a member

of the Marion County Board of County Commissioners from 2004-2012. Stone’s wife, Michelle Stone, has been a Marion County commissioner since 2016.

“I’ve been there, done that,” said Stone. “Picking up the ball and running with it from day one would be a real advantage to this district and to Marion County.”

Stone said if elected again, one of his main priorities would be making affordable housing more accessible in this area.

“My plan would be to figure out a system so that if a developer had a tract of land and was developing density units on it, they would be required to set aside a certain amount of that density to affordable housing,” he said.

During his time in the Florida House, Stone also focused on improving water quality and infrastructure. He sponsored bills to benefit water management and appropriate money toward wastewater systems.

“I’ve always been an advocate for water and sewer,” he said. “Marion County is blessed to have two first magnitude springs, Silver Springs and also Rainbow River from Rainbow Springs. I think we need to do everything within our power to keep them clean.”

Outside of politics, Stone has run his own business, Stone Petroleum Products Inc., since 1990. Based in Ocala, the company delivers petroleum products across Central Florida.

Stone and his family have lived in Florida since 1972.

So far, he and five other candidates have entered the race for the House seat. Stone will be opposing Republicans Stephen Pyles, Jose Juarez, Ryan Chamberlain and Justin Albright, as well as write-in candidate Robert “Foxy” Fox.

By Caroline Brauchler caroline@ocalagazette.com

After growing up in a family centered around politics, Justin Albright decided it was finally time to run for an elected public office once the District 24 seat of the Florida House of Representatives was vacated.

A special election will take place for the seat vacated by Ocala Republican Joe Harding after his resignation. Harding resigned on Dec. 8 after being indicted by a federal grand jury on several counts of fraud based on illegally obtaining pandemic-related loans.

The primary special election, declared by the governor, will take place on March 7. A general special election will take place on May 16 if needed.

Albright said that “politics is kind of in my blood,” and decided to run for an elected office after serving on several public boards in Ocala and Marion County throughout the years.

“I think that most residents in Marion County— Republicans— they’re looking status quo is. I

direction.”

Albright works as a licensed real estate agent and has a history of governmental service, including serving on the Marion County Board of Adjustment, the Ocala Planning and Zoning Commission and the Marion County Soil and Water Conservation District.

Albright does come from a family of politics; the “blood” he mentions is his half-brother, Marion County Tax Collector George Albright.

In a statement posted from his wife’s Facebook account, George Albright said he was completely unaware of his sibling’s campaign and was “shocked” that he would run for the vacated House seat.

“We in no way, shape or form condone or endorse his candidacy,” he said in the post. “Marion County deserves better!”

In response to his brother’s post, the candidate said it was merely a disagreement between family members and said that George Albright had been informed of Albright’s intent to run.

“It saddens me that he has to resort to referring to me as a half-brother. I feel like that’s derogatory,” he said.

He said he believes George Albright is offering his support to another candidate for the District 24 House seat.

“I think he’s supporting Mr. [Charlie] Stone,” he said. “Charlie and I have no problem with each other, and I have no qualms with my brother…sometimes family doesn’t see eye to eye.”

Albright described himself as a strong conservative who supports the Second Amendment and opposes abortion. He is also passionate about mental health and expressed interest in improving resources for those with mental health issues and addiction, primarily veterans.

“I think that more awareness for mental health could ease so much pressure on our local jails,” he said. “I think that that’s something that we need a voice in Tallahassee for.”

Albright also expressed interest in controlling growth in Marion County and easing its impacts on the county’s infrastructure.

“I would make it a priority to make sure that we get all of the funds available for transportation needs. Here, for our roads here locally,” he said. “We’ve got to have somebody who’s going to fight for our fair share here.”

So far, Albright and five other candidates have entered the race for the House seat. He will be opposing fellow Republicans Charlie Stone, Stephen Pyles, Jose Juarez and Ryan Chamberlain as well as write-in candidate Robert “Foxy” Fox.

Justin Albright [Supplied]

Special events scheduled in honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day

By Ocala Gazette Staff

Marion County will join the rest of the nation in honoring the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. this weekend with a full slate of events ranging from a prayer breakfast and wreath-laying ceremony to a day of fun for the area’s children and a commemorative march.

The third Monday in January has been designated a federal holiday to remember the slain civil rights icon. Beginning as the pastor of the Dexter Avenue Baptist Church in Montgomery, Alabama from 1954 to 1965, King rose to international prominence as the leading voice for equality and social justice in America and around the world until he was assassinated on April 4, 1968. This year, he would have been 94 years old.

Marion County’s Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Commemorative Commission will host several events in Ocala from Saturday through Monday to honor King.

The events begin with a prayer breakfast at 9 a.m. Saturday at the Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place, 1812 NW 21st Ave, Ocala. Tickets are $15 and can be purchased by contacting Lorretta Jenkins at 352-3510824. At 1 p.m., the center will host a youth day event. Children of all ages are invited to attend this free event, which will include kid-friendly activities such as face painting, basketball, volleyball and arts and crafts.

A wreath-laying ceremony will also be held on Saturday at 11:30 a.m. at the Martin Luther King Jr. Recreation Complex, 595 SW Martin Luther King Jr. Ave.., Ocala. The event is free and open to the public. For more information, contact Cassandra Boston at 352-209-2973.

On Sunday, an ecumenical service

will be held at 5 p.m. at the Mt. Moriah Missionary Baptist Church, 55 SW Third Ave., Ocala. Residents are encouraged to participate and will have the opportunity to sing in a group or solo, play drums or guitar. For more information, contact Shirley Wright at 352-732-0097.

The commemorative slate of events culminates Monday with a MLK Day march. Participants will gather at 8 a.m. in Ocala’s Downtown Square and the march will begin at 9 a.m. and end at the Martin Luther King Jr. Recreation Complex. After the march, there will be a Day in the Park event, featuring feature food, vendors and entertainment.

“This year is a shorter time frame for Day in the Park,’’ said Te’sha Jackson, chairperson of the “Day in the Park” event. “This year will be compact with substantial entertainment, support from youth, high schools, middle schools, and food trucks. This would probably be the year that we get more full participation since we are not in the pandemic anymore.”

Jackson said she encourages families to come out and enjoy the festivities while remembering the reason for the event: to give credit to King for all of his good works.

“I think it’s great for communities to come together and honor his legacy, especially with some of the ups and downs of things that have been happening in the community with deaths and violence,’’ she said. “We need to rally together because we are stronger together in numbers. I hope it motivates people to do the day of service because it’s actually an in-service day for MLK.”

For more information about any of the MLK Day events, contact Dr. Dwanette Dilworth at 352-207-6036.

Court looks for help in defining ‘riot’

By Jim Saunders Florida News Service

Afederal appeals court Tuesday turned to the Florida Supreme Court for help as it considers the constitutionality of a 2021 state law that enhanced penalties and created new crimes in protests that turn violent.

A three-judge panel of the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals sent the case to the Florida court because of what it called a “novel” issue — how to determine the meaning of the word “riot” in the law.

“The proper interpretation of the statutory definition is a novel issue of state law that the Florida Supreme Court has yet to address,” the panel said in a 29-page decision. “After careful consideration, we exercise our discretion to certify a question to that (Supreme) Court to determine precisely what conduct the definition prohibits.”

The move came as the panel considered a state appeal of a 2021 decision by Chief U.S.

District Judge Mark Walker to issue a preliminary injunction against the law. Walker described the law as unconstitutionally “vague and overbroad.”

Gov. Ron DeSantis led efforts to pass the law after nationwide protests following the 2020 death of George Floyd, a Black man who was killed by a Minneapolis police officer. Dubbed the “Combating Public Disorder” law, the measure included a series of steps aimed at cracking down on protests that become violent.

But groups such as the Dream Defenders and the Florida State Conference of the NAACP challenged the law (HB 1), arguing that it would have a chilling effect on First Amendment rights. Walker issued a 90-page ruling that pointed to vagueness in the measure.

“Though plaintiffs claim that they and their members fear that it (the law) will be used against them based on the color of their skin or the messages that they express, its vagueness permits those in power to weaponize

its enforcement against any group who wishes to express any message that the government disapproves of,” Walker wrote. “Thus, while there may be some Floridians who welcome the chilling effect that this law has on the plaintiffs in this case, depending on who is in power, next time it could be their ox being gored.”

The panel of the Atlanta-based appeals court heard arguments last March in the state’s appeal of the preliminary injunction. But in Tuesday’s decision, it said it was deferring a ruling on the preliminary injunction until after the Florida Supreme Court can weigh in on the definition of riot. In passing the measure, the Legislature changed a law that barred riots. The revamped law says that a “person commits a riot if he or she willfully participates in a violent public disturbance involving an assembly of three or more persons, acting with a common intent to assist each other in violent and disorderly conduct, resulting in injury to another person, damage to

property or imminent danger of injury to another person or damage to property.”

The appeals court said plaintiffs, for example, have argued that the law does not define what it means to participate in a violent public disturbance.

“According to the plaintiffs, every person present could be arrested and charged with rioting because each willfully participated in the protest, which became a violent disturbance — even those who did not engage in any violence or disorderly conduct themselves,” Tuesday’s decision said. “The plaintiffs express concern that protesters could be charged with rioting if they remained on the scene after violence erupted and continued to protest, assisted those who were injured or filmed the events.”

But attorneys for DeSantis disagreed with that hypothetical situation, the appeals court said.

“The governor argues that a nonviolent demonstrator cannot be considered as willfully participating in a violent public

disturbance simply because violence occurs among others who are in close proximity,” said the decision, written by Judge Jill Pryor and joined by Judges Elizabeth Branch and Ed Carnes.

While such moves are unusual, the federal appeals court at times sends cases to the Florida Supreme Court to help sort out the wording of state laws — a move known as certifying a question. For example, the appeals court in 2021 looked to the state court in a challenge to a credit-card fee for red-light camera violations.

“Certification in this circumstance (the protest law case) allows us to avoid the friction that could arise if we, as a federal court, addressed the merits of the plaintiffs’ pre-enforcement constitutional challenge without first giving the Florida Supreme Court an opportunity to interpret its state’s law,” Tuesday’s decision said.

DeSantis outlines secondterm environmental plans

By Jim Turner Florida News Service

Gov. Ron DeSantis announced plans Tuesday to spend $3.5 billion in his second term on environmental projects such as restoring the Everglades and addressing water-quality problems.

“This may be a bigger, more comprehensive executive order than we did four years ago. But I think that’s the right thing to do,” DeSantis, who was re-elected in November, said while at Coconut Jack’s Waterfront Grille in Bonita Springs. “You can make progress, you can do good things, and you just got to keep pressing forward.”

The $3.5 billion, which would need legislative approval, would be spread over four years. The bulk would go to Everglades and water-quality projects.

DeSantis issued an executive order that called for “meaningful” funding for the Florida Forever land-acquisition program and continued support for the Resilient Florida Program, which is designed to help protect communities from sea-level rise and other effects of climate change. He also called for speeding work on a wildlife corridor project and protecting coral reefs.

“We are also going to establish a coral reef restoration and recovery initiative to increase coral deployment, to enhance coastal flood and storm surge protections,” DeSantis said. “That is something that is very, very important, and we are going to continue to make progress there.”

In addition, DeSantis directed the state Department of Environmental Protection to identify and prioritize projects to clean the Indian River Lagoon, with the Legislature asked to provide $100 million a year for the work.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission recorded 800 manatee deaths in Florida waters last year, after 1,101 died in 2021. Many of the deaths occurred in the lagoon, where poor water quality and algae blooms have depleted seagrass beds that provide a key food source for manatees. For example, 346 manatees died last year in Brevard County, where

manatees often congregate in the lagoon.

Shortly after first taking office in 2019, DeSantis issued an executive order that called for spending $2.5 billion over four years for Everglades restoration and water resource protection. After the budget for the current year was signed in June, the governor’s office said the state had topped the spending goal by $800 million.

Everglades Trust CEO Anna Upton issued a statement Tuesday calling the new plans “unquestionably historic.”

Senate President Kathleen Passidomo, R-Naples, has made a priority of the wildlife corridor, which is planned as a network of about 17 million acres of greenspace running up the center of the state.

“I believe that 50 years from now our children and grandchildren will say that the greatest thing the Florida Legislature did in the 2020s was the creation of the wildlife corridor and the preservation of millions of acres of farmland and ranch land for conservation,” Passidomo told reporters in November. “It will be our Central Park.”

As with spending over the past four years, a large chunk of the proposed money is expected to flow from the Land Acquisition Trust Fund. Voters in 2014 passed a constitutional amendment that requires setting aside one-third of the revenue from documentary-stamp taxes for land conservation. That money, which is generated through real-estate transactions, goes into the fund.

During the current fiscal year, $1.26 billion went into the fund. Lawmakers have designated portions of the money to various work across the state, with at least $200 million a year for Everglades restoration projects, $64 million to an Everglades Agricultural Area reservoir project, $50 million for a Lake Okeechobee watershed restoration project, $50 million for natural springs and $5 million for Lake Apopka.

Sen. Ana Maria Rodriguez, R-Doral, and Rep. Jim Mooney, R-Islamorada, have proposed legislation (SB 54 and HB 135) that would designate $20 million a year for the restoration of the Florida Keys and ecosystems that include coral reefs.

Savage Seven marathons draw seasoned runners

By Andy Fillmore Correspondent

The 13th annual Savage

Seven series of marathons held here over the holidays drew seasoned runners from across the United States, including 81-year-old Jim Simpson.

Simpson has completed 2,212 full marathons (26.2 miles each) in his 34 years of participating in the sport.

He credits his good health to running.

“I’d probably be gone if not for running,” he said.

Simpson completed 141 full marathons in 2022, at least one in each of the 50 states.

A number of the runners at this year’s event were in their 60s and 70s.

“Don’t put me in with those old guys,” Simpson joked as he stood in the event staging area.

The Savage Seven Marathons was held at the Baseline Trailhead Park in southeast Marion County-the event’s venue for the past 10 yearsDec. 27 through Jan 2. The series was held at different venues during it’s first three years.

A circuit was mapped out for runners on the park’s asphalt path.

The event offered seven 26.2 mile- full marathons, seven 13.1 mile-half marathons and seven 50K (or 31 mile) - ultra marathons – one each day for a week.

Simpson is a retired plastic injection mold maker and Navy veteran from Huntington Beach, California. He and his running and traveling companion- self described “sweetheart”- Bettie Wailes, 78, of Winter Park, a former math teacher and software engineer, met through running 13 years ago.

Wailes has completed 607 full marathons and 257 half marathons in 28 years of running and she

completed 156 half marathons in 2022, at least one in each state, the couple confirmed in an email.

After the Savage Seven Marathons the couple plans to participate in marathons in the Brooksville area and then travel to California and Hawaii for more running events.

The couple is planning on “100plus runs” in 2023.

The Savage Seven Marathon series was founded and organized by local architect and avid runner since 1979, Chuck Savage, 84.

Savage said he runs for health benefits and the “social aspect.”

Many of the runners in the Savage Seven Marathons each year are repeat entrants, and many of the participants have met at other events.

Savage Seven Marathon runner Gregory James of Lexington, South Carolina, said he runs for “stress relief” while Kevin Brosi, who finished all the Savage Seven Marathons, started running in high school.

Retired accountant and runner in this year’s event, Don Wilkinson, has been running since 2013.

Liz Gmerek completed all Savage Seven full marathons this year as did marathoner, Henry Rueden.

Joyce Ong of Bristow, Virginia, ran seven, 50k ultra- marathons here while recovering from a collarbone injury. She was accompanied at the event by her husband, Ray Cox.

Debbie and Ed Del Favero of St.aint Petersburg, completed seven half marathons and full marathons, respectively.

Debbie , a medical professional, finished the day seven run in 4:08:18 and Ed, a former fire chief in Miami Beach, finished his day seven marathon in 6:47:02.

“New year, new goal,” Debbie Del Favero said.

According to results posted at savage-seven.com, the fastest times by day were:

*Dec.27: Jonathan Williams, half marathon at 1:43:45; Kevin Hanna, full marathon at 3:36:28.

*Dec.28: Jon Williams , half marathon at 1:49:06; Michael Gabriel, full marathon at 4:21:42.

*Dec.29: Tom Carney, full marathon at 4:48:34; Jennifer Bell, half marathon at 2:20::41.

*Dec.30: no winners indicated (Jerry Rick, half marathon listed time 3:11:23; David McManama, full marathon listed at 3:23:31)

*Dec.31: Hanna Swidler, half marathon at 2:48:02; Sarah Wethal, full marathon, at 4:09:13.

*Jan.1: Seth Elsheimer, full marathon at 5:09:15; Jennifer Bell, half marathon, at 2:21:16.

*Jan. 2: no winners indicated (Jonathan Williams, half marathon listed time 1:43:40; Jerry Rick, full marathon listed at 3:11:23)

Left: Jim Simpson, 81, left, gets his medal for completing 7 full marathons in 7 days from organizer Chuck Savage, right, during the Savage Seven marathon event at the Baseline Trailhead in Ocala on Monday, Jan. 2, 2023.

Below: Marathon organizer Chuck Savage, left, jokes with Liz Gmerek about all the steep hills on the course after Gmerek finished 7 marathons in 7 days.

Above: From left: Gregory James, Tim Mahaffey, Liz Gmerek and Kevin Brosi, check their watches as they complete 7 full marathons in 7 days.

Left: Don Wilkinson, left, and Henry Rueden, right, finish 7 full marathons in 7 days.

Photos By Bruce Ackerman Ocala Gazette

Experts in matters of the heart

As Marion County’s only accredited HeartCARE Center™, and the only hospital with accreditations across five specialties from the American College of Cardiology, AdventHealth Ocala is leading the way to reimagine heart care. From minimally-invasive procedures to open heart surgery, our experts provide high-quality, comprehensive care to help heal your heart faster and keep it beating with the pace of life.

People, Places & Things

Moving pictures

By Julie Garisto julie@magnoliamediaco.com

Bold colors, inventive figurative arrangements and expressiveness dominate the canvases of artist Derek Grimsley.

Born in Lakeland, Grimsley has triangulated Central Florida throughout his life. He lived a few years in Clearwater but spent a big chunk of his youth in a neighborhood near Baseline and Maricamp roads. During his teens, he woke up early and took the bus across town to attend the arts magnet program at West Port High School. After attending the Savannah College of Art and Design, he lived in Tampa for a spell before eventually landing in the Orlando area.

Although Grimsley lives some 80 miles away near Wekiva Island, he visits Ocala every other weekend to spend time with family. At his day job, he assists patients getting cataract and LASIK surgery as a surgical counselor at Filutowski Eye Institute.

Acrylics and watercolors dominate Grimsley’s paintings. Speaking of water, it’s as fluid as he is. “There’s a lot of movement, a lot of shapes, a lot of color, just to kind of like weave and make a cohesive piece, but with a lot of different elements going on,’’ he said about his new works.

A few of his newer paintings will be on display at the Marion Cultural Alliance Brick City Center for the Arts during the Couch Sessions exhibition, opening Friday night in tandem with the First Friday Art Walk. The space’s new exhibition pays homage to the event series’ ongoing roster of artists and performers.

The Couch Sessions events, for Grimsley, have offered a fun, communal way to start 2023.

“When Olivia (Ortiz) told me about Couch Sessions, I got really, really excited especially with everything that happened during the pandemic,’’ he said. “I don’t know if it’s the same story with other artists, but it really put kind of a block on wanting to be creative or trying to figure out how to keep the creativity flowing. But now that we’re getting back into more of a normal routine with just life in general, I’ve been a bit more creative.”

Creativity and people skills run in Grimsley’s family.

His mother, Karla GrimsleyGreenway, is CEO at Interfaith Emergency Services and gets a fair amount of ink from our newspaper for all of her and her organization’s charitable work in the community. His father, Terry Grimsley, is a former pastor at Living Waters church, and now serves as a senior pastor at the Mulberry Church of God.

“Both of my parents have always been super supportive of anything that I’ve wanted to try to accomplish,” Grimsley said. “They’re very level-headed people, but also very nurturing. So, I’ve been very, very lucky to have them both in my life and to have such support especially when it comes to art. My mom was the one who encouraged me to even try out at the magnet school at West Port.”

As with almost everyone else, the past few years haven’t been easy for Grimsley. After a breakup and period of upheaval and reflection, he is back at the easel and working on new paintings.

Currently single, the 34-yearold artist said he’s dating himself while he’s working on his wellness and getting more involved in the community.

“I’ve been trying to get a little bit more fit, and I’ve been going to the gym,” he said with a modest chuckle. “I like to go to Cranes Roost Park and take walks there. I’ve gone to a lot of local art shows and to see some friends that are DJs and heard some of their sets. Trying to stay active.”

About his new works, “It’s still going to be very much me,” he said. “It’s my color palette and everything, but it’s going to be more of a light study with geometric shapes and things that are a little different from what people that know my artwork are used to.”

He takes commissions and has worked on portraits of people and animals. A recent lion painting he posted on his Instagram page represents a self-portrait of sorts.

“I didn’t know how I could paint what’s recognized as one of the strongest animals,” Grimsley wrote in the caption of the lion commission.

“I found my moments of strength every time I laid the brush to canvas. I started seeing myself, and this painting of a lion started looking more like a selfportrait. I’m finally believing in my worth and strength every day.”

“It’s still going to be very much me. It’s my color palette and everything, but it’s going to be more of a light study with geometric shapes and things that are a little different from what people that know my artwork are used to.”

Artist Derek Grimsley is reclaiming his life, and he’s conveying his excitement through colorfully inventive paintings featured at the Brick this month.

To see more of Derek Grimsley’s paintings, visit his Instagram page at instagram.com/derek_grimsley_art.

“Pink Palace” Acrylic on Canvas

“Lady

in the Water” Acrylic on Canvas

“Lion Commission” Acrylic on Canvas

“Rococo” Acrylic on Canvas

Derek Grimsley

A “dino-mite” fundraiser

By Joanne Black Habitat for Humanity of Marion County

The Bowl2Build bowling event was created 12 years ago to bring awareness about Habitat for Humanity of Marion County at a family fun event and raise funds to build affordable homes. Event proceeds go to benefit the Habitat Homeownership Program, which helps low-to-moderateincome families own a home.

This year’s event, held Jan. 5 at the AMF Galaxy West Bowling Alley, had a Jurassic Bowl theme and was a roaring success.

We had a “dino-mite” time. We had a packed house and every lane was reserved. Habitat staffers transformed the bowling alley into a “Jurassic Park” setting with the Jurassic Park Gate, Jurassic Jeep with a T-Rex backdrop, photo op with film character Dennis Nedry, several other photo ops and a nest filled with cracked dinosaur eggs.

Staffers dressed and acted like many characters from the “Jurassic” movies. There was a special appearance from Tri-Sarah, a baby triceratops; Dolly, a young stegosaurus; and other baby dinosaurs. The guest star was Elvis, the T-Rex, who stood 7-feet tall and was 10-feet long in length.

The emcee, Casey from KC Webb Entertainment, asked the bowlers to stop bowling as he heard the sound of heavy footprints in the distance. He role-played as if he was at Jurassic Park. Elvis entered Jurassic Bowl as the T-Rex in the “Jurassic Park” movie appeared on the video screens. People yelled and screamed with excitement as Elvis roamed the bowling alley looking for his next “friend” as his handler guided him through the crowd. Teams and individuals took pictures with Elvis, who appeared to be very friendly. He roared as he walked up and down the bowling alley, stopping to look at the nest eggs, wondering if someone stole his babies. His handler quickly guided him to another area to meet more fans.

The event was a huge success and we could not have done it without the support of our bowlers, sponsors, staff and family partners.

By Eadie Sickler Correspondent

From his birth in Bemidji, Minnesota, Dr. Leo Sandgren has traveled around the United States and lived in or visited over 50 other countries.

One of his favorite places to visit is Patagonia, which makes up Chile and Argentina, the “bottom third of South America. The landscape there is just beautiful,” he enthused, adding, “I would like to do it again.”

Leo’s great-grandmother was born in Sweden in 1854 and emigrated to the United States. His father, born in the U.S., was in the military during World War II. He returned to Minnesota to marry his high school sweetheart and got a college degree majoring in math. Five children were born to the couple: Leo, a sister Sheri, and three brothers, David, Eric and Mark.

When Leo was just 2 years old, his family moved to Grand Marais, Minnesota, on Lake Superior, where his father taught

high school and coached football. But it was his father’s education and career in Biblical studies, however, that led the family to the far reaches of the world.

During that time, his father went on an African safari, and later, felt a calling to go to Africa as a missionary. He went to Columbia Bible College in Columbia, South Carolina, and then moved the family to France for two years to study the language. Leo was sent to a French school when he was 10, and the family remained in France for two years before moving to the mission field in the Central African Republic, and then north to Chad. The children were in a CAR boarding school eight months of the year, going to be with the family in Chad only for holidays.

After living in Africa, Leo was placed back a year in his schooling so he could relearn English. This took him through the eighth grade, and he took a correspondence class for his ninth-grade schooling.

His father started a high school for general and Biblical education, and in 1964 the family returned to the U.S. and moved to Washington State for deputation, connecting with the churches that supported their missionary work. Leo was in high school by then, and when he was in the 11th grade, his family returned to Africa, and Leo stayed behind, living with the high school principal until his graduation.

Two years in Wheaton College, Illinois, and two years at the University of Washington in Seattle, saw Leo graduate with two bachelor of arts degrees, one in anthropology

and one in sociology.

Following this, he returned to Africa, but not with his family. He taught in a secondary school Bible college for a year. He visited missionaries in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, southwest of where he was teaching.

One day, a nurse found a baby bonobo (called a pygmy chimpanzee), and Leo kept him for a year, naming him Julius after Julius Caesar. “I had two or three monkeys before, but Julius was a serendipitous reward for someone who loves primates,” Leo said.

Wanting to gain more international experience and “seeking more Biblical knowledge,” Leo moved again, this time to attend the London School of Theology in England, where he earned his master of divinity degree in 1975. “The American system was too parochial, and I wanted to broaden my scope of theology. I met lots of people there from around the world,” he said.

Already interested in Israel because Jesus was Jewish, Leo traveled one summer to Israel to learn the history of Jesus’ life and background. He decided to move to Israel and he lived there for four years on a kibbutz (a communal farm). He traveled around Israel and learned Hebrew, noting it was a “good orientation to living where Jesus grew up. It deepened my understanding of the Bible background.”

He spent time in Jerusalem and went to the Sinai Peninsula because Israel controlled it at that time. “It completed my Biblical education from a parochial view to a more broad and authentic point of view,” he explained.

Leo returned in 1981 to the United States and wrote an as-yet unpublished manuscript for a historical novel.

In 1997, Leo received a doctor of divinity degree at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, with a focus on Ancient Mediterranean Religion.

He has written two books that have been published and are available on Amazon. “The Shadow of God” was published in 2003 and includes stories from early Judaism. In 2011, he wrote an 800-plus book titled, “Vines Intertwined: A History of Jews and Christians from the Babylonian Exile to the Advent of Islam.”

Leo began teaching several courses in the University of Florida’s department of religion in 1998. He retired in 2013.

A private person, Leo lives in a somewhat secluded, peaceful and beautiful spot on the shore of Lake Joe in Silver Springs. The lake is one third of a mile across, he said. There are bass and bluegill in the lake, and he enjoys kayaking there. His brother David and his wife live next door to him. They have a son, who lives in Ocala, and two daughters who live in Colorado, and one daughter in Washington State. Leo’s sister Sheri passed away recently of COVID-19, he shared. Brother Eric lives in Hawthorne. Mark married a British woman, and they have two sons and two daughters. That family lives in Australia.

Leo is an elder at the Brick City Church in Ocala and is responsible for Bible studies.

He gardens and enjoys yard work, kayaking and studying. “I have plenty of curiosity to keep me going,” he concluded.

This year’s Bowl2Build event featured a T-Rex named Elvis and other dinosaurs.

Photos courtesy of Julie Mancini Photography

We are grateful to Suncoast Dinosaurs for helping bring the event to life.

Our next bowling event will be held in November. Anyone want to guess what the theme might be?

To learn more about Habitat for Humanity of Marion County, go to habitatocala.org

Tri-Sarah, baby triceratops, with handler and emcee Casey of KC Webb Entertainment. Elvis looking for his next friend.

Dolly being escorted by handlers from Suncoast Dinosaurs.

Staff of Raney’s in the Jurassic Jeep photo op.

Honing their skills

High school rodeo teams compete in Ocala.

Photos By Alan Youngblood Special to the Ocala Gazette

Some of Florida’s top teen riders and ropers put their skills to the test on Jan. 7 and 8 during a Florida High School Rodeo Association event at the Southeastern Livestock Pavilion in Ocala.

The competitive events included bulls, barrels, broncs, goat tying, team roping, pole bending, steer wrestling, breakaway roping and tie down. Many of these competitions are based on the work that takes place on cattle and horse farms.

The family-friendly event, which included a bake sale, helped raise funds to send team members to national competitions.

To learn more, go to fhsra.com or find them on Facebook.

High School Rodeo Queen Hannah Forkum carries the American flag during the Florida High

School Rodeo on Saturday, Jan. 7, 2023, at the Southeastern Livestock Pavilion in Ocala.

Peyton Strayer ropes his calf.

Anslee Gose tips a barrel.

Linda Santagata heads for the finish.

Bryce Hart ropes his calf.

Fans enjoy the competition.

Kaelin Hegarty ropes her calf.

Courtney Carbajal tries to rope her calf.

Tales of personal pride and class prejudice

By Julie Garisto julie@magnoliamediaco.com

Despite our hundreds of thousands of years of human history, humans still assign irrational value to wealth, status and class, wreaking havoc on societies and our own well-being, and quite possibly the planet’s, too.

By the same token, humanity has a way of pushing on, overcoming obstacles and transcending misfortune to rise above the expectations of those who arbitrarily (and often absurdly) assign worth to others and themselves.

Two films presented this month in College of Central Florida’s Ira Holmes International Film Series explore both the horrific and triumphant sides of class struggle. They center on men and women from cultures as far-flung as Great Britain, India and South Korea. One gives us an inspirational tale that reaffirms our intrinsic self-worth, and the other shows us the darker, more depraved side of greed and covetousness.

Starring Academy Award-winner Judi Dench, “Victoria & Abdul” is a 2017 UK film that chronicles the true story of an unlikely friendship between an aging Queen Victoria and a young clerk from India.

“Parasite,” the 2019 Best Picture/Oscar-

winner from South Korea, directed by Academy Award-winning director Bon Joonho, has been called a “pitch-black modern fairytale.” The story of two families – one wealthy and one who provides luxury services to them – explores topics of generational greed and class prejudice.

Both screenings will begin at 2 p.m. at the Appleton Museum of Art, 4333 E. Silver Springs Blvd., and at 7 p.m. at the CF Ocala Campus, 3001 S.W. College Road, Building 8, Room 110.

Films at the Ocala Campus are free and open to the public. Screenings at the Appleton are free only to museum and film series members; nonmembers must pay museum admission. Films may contain mature content. For more details, visit CF.edu/ filmseries.

Films to come in the series:

Feb. 14 – Scary Movie Date Night: “Get Out”

On Feb. 15 at 12:30 p.m., Dr. Gilbert Rodman will lead a “Get Out” Black History Month film talk at the CF Ocala Campus in Building 8, Room 110. The talk also will be live on Zoom.

Feb. 28 – “Neptune Frost” March 21 – “La Ciénaga”

JANUARY 14

Martin Luther King Jr. Wreath Ceremony

Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Park, 595 SW Martin Luther King Jr. Ave., Ocala

11:30am-12:30pm

The annual offered prayer and wreath-laying ceremony is part of multiple events organized by the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Commemorative Committee. For more info, email Cassandra Boston at clboston59@gmail.com

community

JAN 13-15 (ALSO 18-22; 25-29)

WEC Ocala Winter Spectacular Weekly Series

World Equestrian Center Ocala, 1390 NW 80th Ave., Ocala

All day

This hunter/jumper show series has pony, youth rider and adult amateur classes. Grand Prix classes take place on Saturday nights in the Grand Arena. Food and drink available onsite; parking fees vary per event. For more info, worldequestriancenter.com

JANUARY 13 & 20

Marion County Friday Market

McPherson Governmental Campus Field, 601 SE 25th Ave., Ocala 9am-2pm

Shop locally fresh fruits and veggies, baked goods, jerky, freeze-dried treats, olive oils, seafood and more; recurs every Friday.

JANUARY 14

Healthy & Wellness Expo

Circle Square Cultural Center, 8395 SW 80th St., Ocala 10am-2pm

Offering wellness demonstrations, health advice and the chance to speak with Marion, Citrus and Lake county healthcare providers, this event is free and open to the public. The Ranch Fitness Center & Spa team will be on hand with information and advice. For more info, csculturalcenter.com

JANUARY 14 & 21

Yoga in the Park

Sholom Park, 7110 SW 80th Ave., Ocala 9am

The park hosts free yoga classes for all at the stage area; recurs every Saturday morning. Visit sholompark.org for details.

JANUARY 16 & 23

Marion County Development Review Committee

Office of the County Engineer, 412 SE 25th Ave., Building 1, Ocala 9am

The first step for projects, the committee reviews and votes on waiver requests to the Land Development Code, major site plans, and subdivision plans. Meets weekly on Mondays; agendas are usually posted the Friday prior. Agendas, minutes and video available at marionfl. legistar.com/Calendar.aspx

JANUARY 17

City of Dunnellon Planning Commission Meeting

City Hall, 20750 River Drive, Dunnellon 5:30pm

Meets the third Wednesday of the month; Dunnellon agendas, minutes and video available at Dunnellon.org/89/Agendas-Minutes

JANUARY 17

City of Belleview City Commission Meeting

City Hall, 5343 SE Abshier Blvd., Belleview 6pm-8pm

Meets the first and third Tuesdays; Belleview agendas, minutes and video available at belleviewfl.org/200/Agendas-Minutes

JANUARY 17

City of Ocala City Council Meeting

City Hall, 110 SE Watula Avenue, Ocala

4pm Meets on the first and third Tuesdays of the

JANUARY 14

Martin Luther King Jr. Prayer Breakfast & Youth

Day

Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place, 1812 NW 21st St., Ocala 9am for breakfast; 1pm for youth activities

A prayer breakfast will be held in the new Mary Sue Rich Center to honor Dr. King. Tickets are needed for this event. In the afternoon, youth activities will take place. To learn more, email drdilworth@gmail.com

JANUARY 14-15

US Mounted Games

Florida Horse Park, 11008 South Highway 475, Ocala All day

Competition and games on horseback include obstacle courses, relay-style races requiring riders to pick up objects from the ground, pole weaving and picking up or dunking objects into buckets. For more info, flhorsepark.com

JANUARY 14 & 21

Ocala

MLK day government

Farmers Market

Ocala Downtown Market, 310 SE Third St., Ocala 9am-2pm

A variety of vendors offer local fruits and vegetables, meats and seafood, fresh pasta, honey, jewelry, baked goodies, and arts and crafts. Check out some local food trucks and the occasional guest entertainer. Rain or shine; recurs every Saturday. Visit ocaladowntownmarket.com for more info.

JANUARY 14 & 21

Farmers Swap Meet

Rural King, 2999 NW 10th St., Ocala 9am-2pm

A true farmers swap meet where chickens, ducks, quail, goats, turkeys, rabbits and sometimes even ponies are available along with horse tack, home-grown plants, produce and hand-crafted items. Booth types vary with occasional meat vendors, food trucks and other goods. Saturdays, weather permitting.

JANUARY 15 & 22 (ALSO 29)

Ocala Polo Club Winter Games

Florida Horse Park, 11008 South Highway 475, Ocala 1pm

Polo matches takes place every Sunday through March. Bring chairs, blankets and snacks. Tents are available for rent. For more information, visit ocalapolo.com

JANUARY 18

JANUARY 16

Martin Luther King Jr. March & Day in the Park

Downtown Square to Martin Luther King Jr. Recreation Complex, 1510 NW 4th St., Ocala

8am-4pm

The route of the march goes from the downtown square west to the recreation complex. The park will then host a festival with dance, music, poetry, speeches, food and drink vendors, and booths. For more info, call Derek Ponder at (352) 857-4118 or Dwanette Dilworth at (352) 207-6036.

Fresh Stop Produce Giveaway

Forest Community Center Sandhill Park, 777 S County Road 314A, Ocklawaha 11am-12pm

Florida Blue sponsors this giveaway of fresh produce of one bag per person while supplies last.

JANUARY 19

Third Thursday Sip & Shop

Downtown Square, 1 SE Broadway St., Ocala 5pm-8pm

A special event from downtown merchants who offer a 15% discount on items and you can sip as you shop. Sponsored by Ocala Main Street. For more info, ocalamainstreet.org

JANUARY 19

IHMC Lecture: Human Performance & Robotics

IHMC, 15 SE Osceola Ave., Ocala 5:30pm

Dr. Gwen Bryan researches powered exoskeletons and lower-limb wearable robotic devices to help those who have lost mobility due to disease or injury. Free. Register at https://bit.ly/3W0SK71

JANUARY 19

Farmers Market

The Town Square at Circle Square Commons, 8405 SW 80th St., Ocala 9am-1pm

Large selection of fresh seasonal produce from local growers as well as baked goods, plants, handmade soaps and more; recurs every Thursday. Visit circlesquarecommons.com for more info.

JANUARY 20

Master Gardener Plant Clinic Belleview Public Library, 13145 SE Highway 484, Belleview 11am-2pm Staffers from the Master Gardener program and

civic

month. Agendas are usually posted the Thursday prior; agendas, minutes and video available from ocala.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx

JANUARY 17

Marion County Board of County Commissioners Meeting

McPherson Governmental Campus Auditorium, 601 SE 25th Ave., Ocala

9am

Meets on the first and third Tuesdays of the month. Agendas are usually posted the Thursday prior. Agendas, minutes and video available at marionfl.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx

JANUARY 17

Marion County Board of County Commissioners Planning & Zoning Meeting

McPherson Governmental Campus Auditorium, 601 SE 25th Ave., Ocala

2pm

Meets on the third Tuesday of the month, after the regular morning meeting. Agendas are usually posted the Thursday prior. Agendas, minutes and video available at marionfl.legistar.com/Calendar. aspx

JANUARY 18

Land Development Regulation Commission

Growth Services Training Room, 2710 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala 5:30pm

Meets on the third Wednesday of the month. Agendas are usually posted the Monday prior. Agendas, minutes and video available at marionfl. legistar.com/Calendar.aspx

JANUARY 13 & 20

Chess Club at Freedom Library Freedom Public Library, 5870 SW 95th St., Ocala 10am-12pm

Meets weekly on Fridays; new members welcome. Please bring your own chess set. For more info, Walt Lamp at (352) 854-9378.

UF/IFAS Extension Marion County will answer questions about how to care for houseplants, yards or gardens. Free; repeats on first and third Fridays.

JANUARY 20

Guardianship Workshop

Transitions Life Center, 3360 NW Gainesville Road, Ocala 3:30pm-4:30pm Attorney Samantha Shealy Rauba will explain laws and options for those caring for people with special needs. Free to attend. For more info, tlcocala.org

JANUARY 21

“Bill W & Dr. Bob”

Temple Beth Shalom, 6140 SW 78th Avenue Road, Ocala 5:30pm

The actors in this unique play are from the temple. Tickets are $25 for the in-person performance or $15 to view online. The in-person ticket includes pizza before the production and discussion, coffee and cake afterward. See unboxed.productions for purchase and more info.

JANUARY 21

Homestead Park Garage Sale

Homestead Park, 1050 NE 6th Blvd., Williston 9am-1pm

This event will recur on the third Saturday of each month, with booth space available for $30. For more info, homesteadparks.com

JANUARY 22

Pack Walk

Silver Springs State Park, 5656 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala 9am-10:30am

Help Marion County Animal Shelter dogs get out and about. Park entry fee is $2 for this event and you’re welcome to stay in the park afterward. Recurs monthly on the fourth Sunday. For more info, animalservices.manrionfl.org

JANUARY 18

VFW Wednesday Dinners Angela S. Santos FVW Post 4781, 9401 SW 110th St., Ocala 4:30pm-6:30pm The post offers weekly dinners for about $5-$7 with a variable menu. The dining room is open to the public, meals are prepped by VFW Auxiliary volunteers and proceeds benefit veterans in Marion County. For the menu, call (352) 873-4781.

JANUARY 18

American Legion Post 354 West Marion Moose Lodge, 10411 SW 110th St., Dunnellon 2pm

Meets on the third Wednesday of each month. The organization supports veterans, mentors youth and assists wounded veterans in hospitals. For more info, americanlegion354.org

JANUARY 18

General Francis Marion Stamp Club Meeting

Public Library Headquarters, Room B, 2720 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala 1pm The club meets the first and third Wednesday of each month; newcomers welcome. For more info, elliotn27@aol.com

JANUARY 13 & 20

Kiwanis Club of Ocala

Knights of Columbus Building at Blessed Trinity Catholic Church, 1510 SE 3rd Ave., Ocala 12pm

Meets weekly on Fridays. Supports Camp Kiwanis, children’s literacy and Habitat for Humanity. More info at ocalakiwanis.org

JANUARY 19

Ocala Lions Club

Ocala Golf Club, 3130 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala 12pm

Meets weekly on Thursdays; newcomers welcome. The club supports vision health and diabetes prevention. More info at e-clubhouse.org/sites/ocalafl

Members of the Ocala Chess Club play chess at the Freedom Public Library in Ocala on Friday, Nov. 4, 2022. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2022.

JANUARY 13

Stick it to Me!

NOMA Gallery, 939 N Magnolia Ave., Ocala 5:30-7:30pm

The Art Army and NOMA celebrate National Sticker Day with this hands-on art event. Create, share and use stickers to tell your story. Free; reservations requested at https://bit.ly/3jPZas8

JANUARY 17

Ira Holmes International Film Series: “Victoria & Abdul” College of Central Florida, Bldg 8, Room 110, 3001 SW College Road, Ocala 7pm

This is the story of Queen Victoria and her unusual friendship with a clerk from India and stars Academy Award winner Judy Dench. Free to the public, this is part of an ongoing series of international films. For more info, CF.edu/filmseries

JANUARY 18

Artmaking for Veterans

Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place, 1812 NW 21st Ave., Ocala

6pm-8pm

This special workshop put on by Arts in Health Ocala Metro is for veterans to learn basic painting skills and create their own piece of art to take home. Taught by Army veteran and visual artist Aaron Thomas, this is free to veterans and all supplies are provided. Registration required to hold a space at ocalafl.org/Recpark

JANUARY 20

Tuscawilla Art Park Series: Bluegrass and BBQ

Tuscawilla Park, 213 NE 5th St., Ocala

6pm-9pm

The Art Park Series kicks off this year with live music from Appalachian Road Show and The Wandering Hour bands. Food trucks will be onsite, including Big Lee’s Serious About BBQ and Country Boyz BBQ, along with Big Man’s Café offering desserts. Beer and wine available. Tickets are $10 online or $15 at the gate and VIP packages are available. For info and ticket purchase, ocalafl.org/artpark

artsTHROUGH JANUARY 31

Colorful Pleasures by Christine Dozier Ocala International Airport, 5770 SW 60th Ave., Ocala

Hours vary per airport operations Dozier works in oils and acrylics. This is part of the City of Ocala Art in City Spaces program. For more info, visit ocalafl.org/artincityspaces

THROUGH MARCH 31

Long Legs & Fragility by Cara Van Leuven City Hall, 110 SE Watula Ave., Ocala Mon-Fri, 8am-5pm

Van Leuven paints horses full-time and uses her experience as a carriage driver for inspiration. Free to the public during business hours. For more info, see ocalafl.org/artincityspaces

THROUGH MAY 21

Big & Bold

Appleton Museum of Art, 4333 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala Tues-Sat; 10am-5pm; Sunday 12pm-5pm The museum goes big with large pieces of art in this collection, including historical, modern and contemporary art pieces. Works include a 10’ x 4’ painting by Valenkamph and Snyder’s “Florida Pink Ignition,” which is almost 7’ x 7’. Admission is $10 for adults, $8 for seniors and $5 for youth. For more info, appletonmuseum.org

THROUGH JUNE 9

Blessed Be the Birds Clerk’s Office, 110 SE Watula Ave., Ocala Mon-Fri; 8am-5pm Courtney Kravig-McGuire is a local artist with a special interest in showing the connection between nature and spirituality in her works. Her medium of choice is printmaking. Visit ocalafl.org/artincityspaces

THROUGH JUNE 18

Paper Thin & Shadow Deep

Appleton Museum of Art, 4333 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala Tues-Sat; 10am-5pm; Sunday 12pm-5pm

The artworks from Hiromi Mizugai Moneyhun are threedimensional cut paper pieces that feel both lighthearted and alive. Moneyhun’s style combines traditional Japanese art forms along with modern elements from today’s Japan. Admission is $10 for adults, $8 for seniors and $5 for youth. For more info, appletonmuseum.org

& &music nightlife

JANUARY 13

Shawn Manley

Crazy Cucumber Market Street at Heath Brook, 4414 SW College Road, Ocala 6:30pm-9:30pm Live acoustic music, food and drink.

JANUARY 13 & 20

Courtyard Jams

MCA Courtyard 23 W Broadway St., Ocala 6-9pm Music, dancing, drumming, poetry and limbo. Free to all, Friday nights weekly.

JANUARY 13

DJ Nathan Cox

Homestead Park 1050 NE 6th Blvd., Williston 6-9pm Live music, line dancing, food and drink.

JANUARY 13

Tipsy Sparrows

The Yellow Pony World Equestrian Center Ocala, 1390 NW 80th Ave., Ocala 6-9pm Dinner, drinks and entertainment.

JANUARY 14

Allison Asarch

The Yellow Pony World Equestrian Center Ocala, 1390 NW 80th Ave., Ocala 6-9pm

JANUARY 14

Salsa Night

Crazy Cucumber Market Street at Heath Brook, 4414 SW College Road, Ocala 10pm-2am Salsa, merengue and bachata, $5 cover charge.

JANUARY 14

Houston Keen

Homestead Park 1050 NE 6th Blvd., Williston 6-9pm

JANUARY 15

Charity Cox

Crazy Cucumber Market Street at Heath Brook, 4414 SW College Road, Ocala 1pm-4pm

JANUARY 18

Billy Buchanan

The Yellow Pony World Equestrian Center Ocala, 1390 NW 80th Ave., Ocala 6-9pm

JANUARY 19

Gily & the Girl

The Yellow Pony World Equestrian Center Ocala, 1390 NW 80th Ave., Ocala 6-9pm

JANUARY 20

Sophie Noelle

The Yellow Pony World Equestrian Center Ocala, 1390 NW 80th Ave., Ocala 6-9pm

JANUARY 20

The Mudds

Homestead Park 1050 NE 6th Blvd., Williston 6-9pm

JANUARY 21

Shelby Lauren

Crazy Cucumber Market Street at Heath Brook, 4414 SW College Road, Ocala 6:30pm-9:30pm

JANUARY 21

Retro Express

The Yellow Pony World Equestrian Center Ocala, 1390 NW 80th Ave., Ocala 6-9pm

JANUARY 21

Ecliff Farrar

Homestead Park 1050 NE 6th Blvd., Williston 6-9pm

JANUARY 21

Brandon Dull

Crazy Cucumber Market Street at Heath Brook, 4414 SW College Road, Ocala 1pm-4pm

What’s the benefit of yoga?

By Mayo Clinic staff Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research

DEAR MAYO CLINIC: I am a mother of two, work full time and am also a breast cancer survivor. I know physical exercise is important, so I try to visit the gym a few times a week for weight training and to walk. A friend recently invited me to a yoga class. I have never thought about adding yoga to my fitness routine. What are the benefits, and how would I get started?

ANSWER: Yoga is a wonderful form of exercise that provides benefits that walking and strength training do not provide. In Eastern cultures, yoga is not seen as exercise, but rather “a moving meditation.” In the Western world, many people know power yoga or vinyasa yoga, which are classified as exercise.

Regardless of the type, the practice of yoga brings together physical and mental disciplines that may help you achieve peacefulness of body and mind, relax, and manage the stress and anxiety associated with being a busy mom and living with cancer.

Yoga can provide three primary benefits that a typical gym routine may not provide: improved nervous system function, improved joint range of motion and improved dynamic balance.

Improved nervous system function

Since yoga is based on breathing, parts of the nervous system are affected when you lengthen the amount of time you exhale, and control your breathing. This is cued throughout particular yoga sequences. Specifically, yoga can help lower the fight-orflight response and improve the body’s “rest-and-digest” response.

Practicing slow, controlled breathing stimulates the body’s vagus nerve, which takes information about the current state of relaxation and relays it to the rest of the body, including the brain. One area affected when the vagal nerve is stimulated is the parasympathic nervous system, which controls the body’s rest and digestion functions.

The mindful breathing practiced in yoga increases the activity of the parasympathic nervous system. As a result, yoga lowers the heart rate, improves digestion and quality of sleep, and strengthens the immune system. Another benefit is reduced stress.

Improved joint range of motion

The difference between flexibility and active range of motion is important. Think of flexibility as how much a muscle can be passively stretched. In contrast, range of motion is how much muscles can be used to control a joint’s movement.

It is not uncommon these days for people to report neck and back pain, and poor range of motion in their thoracic spine due to constant sitting, typing on computers and looking down at cellphones. Yoga is excellent in improving thoracic range of motion because many poses involve extending the body through the rib cage and using strength to hold these postures.

Yoga incorporates all four motions of the spine: flexion, extension, rotation and side-bending. Therefore, yoga can prevent stiffness and disuse that also can occur with age. Being able to control the available range of motion in joints is crucial to good posture and decreasing the risk of injury.

Improved dynamic balance

Think of balance like a muscle. By working hard at different exercises, balance can improve. This is similar to improved strength by lifting weights.

Balance is a complex system, requiring three parts: the sensation of the foot on the ground, or proprioception; vision; and the inner ear, or vestibular system. These three parts tell the brain where the head is in space. These three components work together to control both static and dynamic balance.

Yoga trains the proprioception and visual systems to improve balance. Depending on the pose, cues are sent to focus, for instance, on the foot rooted to the ground. By concentrating in an attempt to maintain contact, the big toe, little toe and heel form a tripod of sorts, which in turn helps focus the proprioception portion of balance.

In yoga, you may hear the term “drishti,” which refers to obtaining a focused gaze or focus in the mind. The concept comes into play as people aim to hold a pose with their eyes closed. Certain poses become more challenging with eyes closed, which improves the visual part of balance.

Also, moving back and forth between poses without fully touching a limb to the ground can increase the ability to dynamically move and not lose balance. Over time, this will reduce the risk of falling while walking on uneven ground or turning quickly. Is yoga right for you?

If you choose to try yoga, go slow and try different kinds to find what works for you. Although you can learn yoga from books and videos, beginners usually find it helpful to learn with an instructor. Visiting a class with your friend may be more enjoyable in that it will offer support to you and time together, which is just as important to overall well-being as fitness.

When you find a class that sounds interesting, talk with the instructor so that you know what to expect. You may want to speak to the instructor in advance about expectations for the class. And remember, you don’t have to do every pose. If a pose is uncomfortable or you can’t hold it as long as the instructor requests, don’t do it. Good instructors will understand and encourage you to explore -- but not exceed -- your personal limits.

While it may be hard to add one more thing to your busy life routine, incorporating yoga into your fitness routine can benefit your stress level, mobility and balance in ways that may not be achieved from your regular gym routine. -- Compiled by Mayo Clinic staff

(Mayo Clinic Q & A is an educational resource and doesn’t replace regular medical care. E-mail a question to MayoClinicQ&A@mayo.edu. For more information, visit www.mayoclinic.org.)

Forest stays undefeated after physical win over rival Buchholz

Allen Barney allen@ocalagazette.com

The Forest Wildcats boys’ soccer team moved to 9-0-4 on the season after beating Gainesville Buchholz 3-1 on Thursday, Jan. 5.

These two teams were the last undefeated teams in Marion and Alachua counties heading into the matchup and both are consistently good, which has led to a fierce rivalry the past few years.

Buchholz was on the attack in the first half as they had five shots on goal but could not punch it in. Their best chance came with 15 minutes left in the half and a penalty kick opportunity for Reed Rousseau, who came into the game tied for the team lead with four goals.

Rousseau went to his right and Forest goalie Garrett Smith made an outstanding diving save to keep the game scoreless. Smith, a freshman, was ready for the moment and did not back down.

“Goalkeepers are never supposed to save penalty kicks but I got my hand to it and may have gotten a little lucky but I kept the ball out of the goal. That’s all that matters, to help the team succeed,” Smith said.

The saved penalty kick was the third shot on goal in a two-minute span for Buchholz that did not get in. Forest used the momentum from the save to get a couple of good chances to score but a missed header on a free kick kept the teams off the scoreboard heading into halftime.

In the opening couple minutes of the second half, Forest midfielder Blaise Kemerson took two shots on goal. On the second shot, the ball deflected off the goalie’s hands to Brantley Wigginton and the junior forward scored the first goal of the game to give Forest a 1-0 lead.

Following another good save from Smith, Forest forward Jaime Price found an opening down the right side and slammed in a goal from about 25 yards away to give Forest a 2-0 lead.

Buchholz answered the bell as Rousseau scored on a header after a free kick pass by Phillip Carcaba. Rousseau’s goal put the pressure on Forest and nearly cost them as Rousseau got free for another breakaway goal but was met by Smith at the midway point of the penalty area.

The ball went straight up into the air and the bounced off the crossbar before falling back into the net for what was initially called a goal to tie the game. After a short discussion by the officials, the call was overturned as the ball was deemed out of bounds once it hit the crossbar.

A couple possessions later, Forest took back control as Wigginton nailed a beautiful corner kick to Kaeden Baxter and Baxter would punch it in to

give Forest a 3-1 lead with less than 10 minutes left in the game.

The final few minutes were back-and-forth possessions with no real threat for either team to score and Forest would hold on for a 3-1 victory.

The second half showing by Forest was a completely different team from the first half and assistant coach Shawn Hardy was candid about what he told the team at halftime.

“They just came out very lackadaisical and lazy. I told the leaders of the team that I’m not concerned about what has happened so far this season, it’s a onegame season from here on out and that’s a mindset we have to have,” Hardy said.

A big component for Forest’s dominance in the second half was the defensive play as they attacked the ball with more energy and communicated with each other.

“I think some of the guys took it personal. I was a defender, so I take defensive responsibilities personally, so I got on them at halftime and they came out and performed,” Hardy said.

Wigginton led the way on offense with a goal and an assist, the junior has a bright future ahead of him with college offers already and tonight he showed his best stuff against a quality opponent.

“Almost everyone in the county knows he is a talented player and every team we play is going to have his number in their books. He did his job tonight,” Hardy said.

For Buchholz, it was their first loss of the season and they have to regroup and play a tough Fleming Island team on Tuesday. Head coach Phillip Journey appreciated the level of play from both sides but knows his team could of done better.

“It was a great game, Forest played very well and hopefully we’ll learn from this game. This is a great loss because it takes that zero off your back and now we can move forward by knowing what mistakes we made and figuring out how to correct them,” Journey said.

Wigginton felt that this win will give the team some confidence that they can beat quality teams.

“Getting a decent result against them hopefully brings us up so we can go further into the season against better opponents and get more victories,” Wigginton said.

Hardy echoed the same sentiment and wants to see the same energy for the entire game when they match up with the The Villages Charter on Friday at 7 p.m.

“It’s a fantastic feeling, you got to love the outof-county rivalry and nothing better than beating a team from Gainesville. Hopefully we can use this momentum to propel us into tomorrow, just taking it one game at a time,” Hardy said.

Photos By Bruce Ackerman Ocala Gazette

Forest’s Brandon Droese (15) gets his jersey pulled by Buchholz’ Eduardo Fuzy (13) as they battle for the ball during a soccer match at Forest High School in Ocala on Thursday, Jan. 5, 2023.

Forest’s Brantley Wigginton (8) gets a push in the head from Buchholz’ Ben Zeig (10) as they battle for the ball.

Forest’s Brandon Droese (15) gets past Buchholz’ Christian Segura (9) as they battle for the ball. Forest’s

West Port dominates in road win over Dunnellon

offense into a bevy of mistakes that gave West Port momentum and a 21-11 lead by the end of the first quarter.

The second quarter was the best period for West Port as they scored 27 points. The relentless defense paired with an offense that could not miss, which gave them a 48-31 lead at halftime.

During the second quarter, five players scored multiple points for the Wolfpack as they scored in the paint with ease thanks to transitions off steals and superb passing from the guards outside.

Having more than one option that can score at will is a cushion that West Port head coach Corey Rollerson said he enjoys having during the long grind of the season as they prepare for a deep playoff run.

and showed determination by trying to keep pace. Dunnellon head coach Chris Thompson noticed some arguing between the players early in the game but was happy to see his team start communicating and playing fundamental basketball in the final period.

“The biggest thing was just them overcoming blaming each other. We had good ball movement and ran it up the middle. The fourth quarter was our best quarter. We had 3-4 touches each possession and that’s what we need,” Thompson said.

West Port leaned on their scoringby-committee approach in the fourth quarter as Caniyah Graham dropped in a three-pointer from the right side and an impressive one-handed layup. Rodriguez Mercado, Ciarra Lake and Smith all hit in the fourth quarter as they each scored at least four points in all four quarters.

Allen Barney allen@ocalagazette.com

The West Port Wolfpack girls’ basketball team improved to 11-3 on the season after going on the road and beating a solid Dunnellon Tigers squad by a score of 81-53.

West Port got off to a quick start with junior Ciarra Lake (23 points, seven rebounds and three assists) knocking down a sweet left-handed layup. Dunnellon’s Tatiana Matthews answered with a 13-foot jumper to even the score in the first minute of the game. West Port then went on a 10-0 run on points from Lake, Trinity Goodson and Mileyka Rodriguez Mercado to jump out to a 12-2 lead with 3:30 left in the first quarter.

Matthews stopped the run with a pair of free throws.

A half-court pressure defense led by Rodriguez Mercado forced Dunnellon’s

The West Port offense came out of halftime and did not lose their touch as Rodriguez Mercado and Ciarra Lake both scored on layups to put their team up by 21. The depth of West Port showed in the third quarter as Calise Smith (11 points, seven rebounds) scored five points and Mia Lake (17 points, 12 assists, four rebounds and two steals) scored four points to extend the lead to 26 by the end of the third period.

For Dunnellon, Matthews knocked down two impressive three-point shots in the third quarter and Nia Heppner scored four of her seven points in the game with two free throws and a tough layup with a defender close by.

The fourth quarter was the most even period of the night as Dunnellon started to move the ball offensively and get more people involved as Matthews, Heppner, Paige Powell and Kmari Williams all scored.

Despite trailing by double-digit points from the middle of the first quarter on, Dunnellon did not quit

Matthews led the way for Dunnellon with a game-high 35 points while adding three steals, four rebounds and two blocks. Heppner was second on the team with seven points and Turner finished with five and five rebounds.

Mitchell scored six points and led the team with four steals.

For West Port, Rodriguez Mercado led the way with 21 points, seven rebounds and a game-high seven steals.

“She is a very good guard and plays defense well. She handles the ball and sees the floor well, so it was good for her to step up tonight. She is going to have play big for us if we want to be successful,” Rollerson said.

Rodriguez Mercado was the just the tip of the iceberg that was the West Port defense as they combined for 16 steals on the night.

“We pride ourselves on our defense and forcing turnovers. We have the people to pressure the ball and we used to that to our advantage,” Rollerson said.

Dunnellon started a four-game week Jan. 9 at Vanguard. West Port was set to play Eustis on Jan. 10.

North Marion powers past Dunnellon in boys’ basketball

The loss dropped Class 4A Dunnellon, which was paced by Sean Martin’s 14 points, to 10-6 overall.

“I thought we played well and made some adjustments, but North Marion’s size hurt us,” said Tigers coach Melissa Mosby. “Our game plan was good but North Marion shot the ball well from the outside, which is something they haven’t been doing. This is a tough week for us with four games, but this will build the chemistry we need going into the playoffs.”

Dunnellon came out strong in the first quarter as Bode Burns scored eight of his 11 points and Aiden Hafault knocked down a 3-pointer to give the Tigers a 1715 lead heading to the second quarter.

North Marion found the range from behind the arc as Jackson drained a trio of 3-pointers and poured in 13 points, while Yeanay, a 6-foot 7 junior, who played for North Marion last season before transferring to The Rock in Gainesville during the Christmas break, added four points to go with two assists in his first game back as the Colts enjoyed a 35-27 lead at the half.

By Mark Pinson Special to Ocala Gazette

North Marion guard Jermaine Jackson Jr. scored a game-high 22 points and center Sammie Yeanay added 19 points, 13 rebounds and four blocks to lead the Colts to a 66-51 win over Dunnellon on Jan. 10.

The win improved Class 4A North Marion, which won its third game in a row, to 9-4 on the season.

“The kids came out and played well and hats off to Dunnellon because they played us extremely hard,” said Colts coach Tim Yarn. “The energy in the building was exciting and we played together as a team. Jermaine made some shots tonight and that kind of opened up the floor. Dunnellon put two and half guys on Sammie and it was kind of hard at first, but once we started making some shots things kind of opened up a little bit. Sammie works extremely hard, is very athletic and has a high basketball IQ.”

“It’s definitely a blessing to have Sammie on the team,” coach Yarn said. “He loves basketball and putting him with eight football players makes us better.”

North Marion extended its lead midway through the third period to 44-29 as Elija Walton and Brenden Barber knocked down a pair of 3-pointers.

Dunnellon answered as Hafault buried a 3-pointer from the left baseline to pull the Tigers within 47-40 with under two minutes left in the quarter.

North Marion’s Titus Williams nailed a 3-pointer to give the Colts a 52-40 lead heading to the final eight minutes.

Dunnellon tried to make a run as Martin scored six points and Hafault drilled a 3-pointer, but Jackson scored four points, including an acrobatic layup and Yeanay threw down a pair of thunderous dunks as North Marion pulled away for the victory.

“Once we settled in, we were able play our game and execute,” Yarn said. “We’re focused on getting better every day and it’s going to take a total team effort to accomplish our goals.”

Dunnellon was at Newberry on Jan. 11 and North Marion was set to host Vanguard on Jan. 13.

Photos By Bruce Ackerman Ocala Gazette

West Port’s Calise Smith (5) battles for a loose ball with Dunnellon’s Nia Heppner (21) and Jada Hayes (14).

West Port’s Mileyka Rodriguez Mercado (0) shoots for 2 as she drives past Dunnellon’s Jada Hayes (14) and Nia Heppner (21) during a basketball game at Dunnellon High School on Friday, Jan. 6, 2023.

West Port’s Ciarra Lake (11) looks for a way to the hoop as she is defended by Dunnellon’s Nia Heppner (21) and Paige Powell (10).

North Marion’s Elija Walton (2) hangs on the rim after dunking on Dunnellon’s Eli Nelson (21)

during a basketball game at North Marion High School in Citra on Tuesday, Jan. 10, 2023.

Photos By Bruce Ackerman Ocala Gazette

Dunnellon’s Sean Martin (4) fouls North Marion’s Jerdarrius Jackson (0) on his way to the basket.

North Marion’s Caleb Rollerson (1) drives to the basket

Dunnellon’s Aramys

BOYS’ SOCCER SCORES

SCOREBOARD

SELECTED MARION COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL & COLLEGE SPORTS RESULTS

JAN. 2 - JAN. 7

North Marion 30 Belleview 48 Vanguard 35 Deltona 50

GIRLS’ BASKETBALL SCORES

January 3

GIRLS’ SOCCER SCORES

January 5

Trinity Catholic 64 Dunnellon 55 South Sumter 13 Forest 63 Belleview 30 Mount Dora Christian Acad. 33 St. John Lutheran 38 Halifax Academy 29

Ocala Christian Academy 46 Real Life Christian Academy 55 Aucilla Christian 21 Meadowbrook Academy 44 Seven Rivers Christian 45 Redeemer Christian 19 January 6 West Port 81 Dunnellon 53 Umatilla 45 Lake Weir 65

Ocala Christian Academy 40 Aucilla Christian 51 Jordan Christian Prep 29 Meadowbrook Academy 38 Gainesville Christian Comm. 30 Redeemer Christian 50

BOYS’ BASKETBALL SCORES

January 3

Vanguard 53 Gainesville 64

Trinity Catholic 36 Dunnellon 57

Cornerstone Academy 27

Ocala Christian Academy 51 Redeemer Christian 66 Saint Francis Catholic 51

January 4

Forest 66 Palatka 64 Vanguard 76 Lake Weir 64

January 5

North Marion 68 Belleview 33 St. John Lutheran 60 Halifax Academy 72 Ocala Christian Academy 52 Real Life Christian Academy 54

Aucilla Christian 55 Meadowbrook Academy 44 Seven Rivers Christian 47 Redeemer Christian 58 Westwood Christian 17 First Assembly Christian Acad. 57

January 6

Forest 62 Vanguard 57

Lake Weir 83 Crystal River 47

Zephyrhills 45 Dunnellon 59

HEART HomeSchool 64 St. John Lutheran 59

Ocala Christian Academy 44 Aucilla Christian 50 Jordan Christian Prep 81 Meadowbrook Academy 17 Umatilla 67 Redeemer Christian 56

Don Stewart Shootout @ Lely High School (Naples, FL)

Trinity Catholic 50 St. Brendan 83

January 7

Dunnellon 69 Saint Francis Catholic 43

Don Stewart Shootout @ Lely High School (Naples, FL)

Trinity Catholic 27 Palmetto 76

basketball game at Dunnellon High School in Dunnellon on Friday, Jan. 6, 2023.

Forest’s goalie Garrett Smith (98) makes a diving save on a Buchholz penalty kick during a soccer match at Forest High School in Ocala on Thursday, Jan. 5, 2023. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2023.

Trinity Catholic’s Leanna Pabst

shoots for two over Buchholz’ Sam Moore (2) and Jamison Cardwell (1) during a basketball game at Trinity Catholic High School in Ocala on Tuesday, Jan. 3, 2023. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2023.

Dunnellon’s Paige Powell (10) knocks

ball away from West Port’s Ciarra Lake (11) during a basketball game at Dunnellon High School on Friday, Jan. 6, 2023. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2023.

Trinity Catholic’s Micaela Captain Rob is excited to show you the beauty of the Silver River location of the original Jungle Cruise on our luxury boat! Old Florida at its Best! CAROLINE KING COUNSELING individual + couples therapy Caroline King, MA, RMHCI caroline@ckingcounseling.com www.ckingcounseling.com 352.509.5576

goes to the floor as she steals the ball from Buchholz’ Diamond Jenkins Specializing in trauma-informed therapy, relationship challenges, and life transitions.

(5)

during a basketball game at Trinity Catholic High School in Ocala on Tuesday, Jan. 3, 2023.

Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2023.