Ocala Gazette | February 17 - February 23, 2023

Growing future agriculturalists

By Susan Smiley-Height susan@magnoliamediaco.com

Within minutes of arriving at the Peebles property in northeast Marion County, you quickly learn that generations of this farming family have a deep love for each other, the land on which they live and the agricultural aspects of their lives.

In the center of the sprawling spread is the home of Meghan and Josh Peebles and their children Conner, 14; Clay, 10; and Hannah, 4 1/2. On either side of them are parents and grandparents. Other family members live nearby.

The Peebles have long raised cows and young Clay is approaching his second year of showing a steer at the Southeastern Youth Fair (SEYF), which will run from Feb. 23 to March 4 at the Southeastern Livestock Pavilion in Ocala. Conner has been a past participant but is sitting out a year. Hannah will be able to participate in the 2024 fair, after she turns 5.

The SEYF is the oldest all-youth fair in the country that continues to operate without a midway. All of the exhibitors must be registered with a local 4-H club or the National FFA Organization. This year’s theme is “Let The Good Times Grow.”

Sara LeFils, executive director of the SEYF, said it also is the largest all-youth fair event in the state of Florida. The Steer Show, which was the foundation of the SEYF, began in 1941. The fair in its current configuration started in 1978. That was the year that saw the start of the beef heifer, dog obedience, dairy and meat goat, garden, home arts, horse, kitchen, poultry, rabbit and swine show categories. Dog agility was added in 2004.

“I believe the Southeastern Youth Fair to be one of the most rewarding and inspiring events observed in our

community. Watching hundreds of our local youth showcase their hard work and seeing our community leaders and businesses support them in such a tremendous way gives me great encouragement for our future,” said LeFils.

The SEYF operates with one paid employee and more than 200 volunteers, whose time is valued at over $50,000 and who provide almost 4,000 hours of service each year.

This year’s fair is dedicated to one of those volunteers, local CPA Terri Kane.

“Terri has been an integral part of the SEYF community for decades,’’ said LeFils. “She served as the treasurer on the executive board from 1998 to 2014. She has devoted an endless amount of volunteer hours over numerous years at the SEYF. She supported the fair financially as a sponsor, an animal buyer and donated her accounting services for several years. Her influence is immeasurable and her devotion to serve the youth in this community is admirable. Terri’s passion for and commitment to the fair will always be treasured and will continue to inspire future generations to come. It is an honor to dedicate the 2023 Southeastern Youth Fair to her.”

The guiding principles of the SEYF are to maintain a production show; foster a unique experience for a child to act as a producer, to market their animal from beginning to end; protect that project as much as possible for the buyer’s sake with a high-quality product, for the child’s sake in protecting their initial investment and with a goal for the highest possible return for the child; and create educational experiences for Marion County youth.

The mission is to recognize youth through the fair as a showcase for competition, exhibition, enhanced educational opportunities and

promotion of self-esteem and personal growth and development, while educating residents about the importance of agriculture and related industries in the local area.

“The Southeastern Youth Fair has a tremendous impact on youth development and is necessary in growing future agriculturalists,” said SEYF

President Molly Rowe. “It’s a treasured tradition in our county that brings our community together and honors our roots in agriculture.”

BY THE NUMBERS

In regard to the agriculture industry in the region, here are some statistics from Patricia “Lynn” Nobles,

director, UF/IFAS Extension, Marion County:

• Marion County is the Horse Capital of The World, with more horses than any county worldwide. However, we are also ranked 10th in the state for beef cattle, 1st in the state for sheep and goat numbers

See Youth fair, page A5

Better serving seniors

The Elder Co-Responder Program for Marion County is the first of its kind in Florida and is being looked at as a potential model.

By Rosemarie Dowell rosemdowell@gmail.com

Area at-risk seniors who previously tumbled through the gaps of available resources now have a big safety net, thanks to a new and unique collaboration between Marion Senior Services (MSS) and a host of other agencies.

The Elder Co-Responder Program for Marion County assists seniors with medical and mental health issues, food insecurity, as well as the strain of caregiving and social isolation by linking them to vital organizations and agencies that can provide them with aid and relief.

The program, a first-of-its-kind in Florida, officially launched in 2020 but gained traction in 2021 when it received crucial funding from Lutheran Services Florida in the amount of

$150,000. Last year, Lutheran Services backed the program with another $145,000 infusion, funding the program through June of this year.

“We were watching seniors fall through the gaps, despite our best efforts, and we were determined to find a better way to help them,” said Jennifer Martinez, executive director of the nonprofit MSS since 2015. The agency provides supportive care to seniors and the disabled community, including meals and transportation.

“We wanted to find a more dignified and unified way to approach their problems,” she said of the program’s beginnings.

What initially started out as a joint effort between MSS, Lutheran Services and the Marion County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO), under the approval of Sheriff Billy Woods,

See Program, page A7

The Southeastern Youth Fair, the oldest allyouth fair in the country without a midway and the largest all-youth fair in Florida, is a showcase for our area’s budding farmers and ranchers.

Top: The Peebles family, from left: Conner, 14, Josh, Hannah, 4 1/2, Meghan and Clay, 10, with Tex, a 3-month-old bottle-fed steer and Charlie, who Clay will be showing in Steer Showmanship during the Southeastern Youth Fair pose at their farm in the Ocala National Forest on Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2023. Bottom left: Clay Peebles, 10, tries to lead his steer, Charlie, as they practice for Steer Showmanship. Bottom right: Hannah Peebles, 4 1/2, leads Tex, a 3-month-old bottle-fed steer, as her brother, Clay, 10, works with his steer, Charlie. the

Photos By Bruce Ackerman Ocala Gazette

Vicki Harper, a Human Services Case Manager with Marion Senior Services, left, and Capt. Chris Hickman of Ocala Fire Rescue, center, talk with Shirley McEarchern, 87, the widow of former Ocala Fire Rescue Chief George McEarchern, as they take her vitals and provide support at her home in Ocala on Wednesday, Feb. 15, 2023. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2022.

Deadline nears to file for special property tax exemption

By Andy Fillmore Correspondent

Marion County property owners who meet age and income criteria are eligible to receive a property tax exemption that could provide significant savings on their annual tax bills, but they must apply by March 1.

The Florida Legislature approved the exemption, known as Amendment 11, in 2012 and gave counties and municipalities the option of adopting it. The cities of Belleview and McIntosh adopted it several years ago, and Marion County Property Appraiser (MCPA) records show six property owners in McIntosh and 23 in Belleview have qualified.

The Marion County Board of County Commissioners unanimously approved the exemption on Jan. 4, 2022, for the entire county, and the ordinance implementing it took effect Sept. 7. Persons interested must apply through the MCPA’s office, and as of Jan. 17, six property owners in Marion County have qualified. The city of Ocala also recently adopted a similar ordinance.

The MCPA explained that for income-qualified persons 65 or older, “the exemption is equal to the assessed value of the property to an owner who has title to real estate in Florida with a just value less than $250,000, as determined in the first tax year that the owner applies and is eligible for the exemption, and

who has maintained permanent residence on the property for at least 25 years.”

The household income limitation to qualify, which is annually adjusted, was $32,561 for 2022.

Qualified property owners in Marion County can thank Joy Rumans, a local woman who took it upon herself to find tax relief for her neighbors, for urging the commissioners to make the exemption available countywide.

Rumans said the amount she owed the county each year nearly doubled in 2021 when an assessment was made to her property tax bill for a road project in her Emil-Marr subdivision in northeast Marion County. The residents were given the option of paying an annual assessment of $474.59 over 10 years, starting in 2021.

She and others learned of the road project and the assessment in 2020 when letters from the county began arriving for the 91 affected property owners.

Rumans, who is retired from the food service industry and operates The Sounds of Joy by Joy Rumans, an entertainment service for senior facilities, became familiar with Amendment 11. She felt that if the commissioners adopted it countywide, it would lower her neighbors’ property taxes and offset the new assessment.

She began to contact neighbors and spoke at three Marion County Board of County Commissioners meetings, where she began hearing

horror stories from low-income elderly residents who couldn’t afford the assessment.

“I met a disabled man (affected by the roadwork assessment) at one of the (public meetings) and I promised myself I would try to help. He was my motivator,” she said.

Now that the county has adopted the additional exemption countywide, Rumans wants to be sure Marion County property owners who might qualify are aware of it. “This is for the entire county not just Emil-Marr,” she said.

Since 1996, Eleanor Cullison, 83, has lived in the Emil-Marr subdivision, generally bordered by Northeast 35th Street and Northeast 39th Street and by Northeast 24th Court and Northeast 22nd Court. She said Rumans has been keeping her informed about the senior exemption.

“I’m one of the Social Security people, and the additional exemption (and possible tax reduction) would definitely help,” Cullison said. She said with people watching their budgets closely “everything counts.”

Rumans said she was happy she could help her neighbors.

“I felt deeply grateful, thrilled and humbled to realize that I could make such a difference for so many deserving seniors,’’ she wrote in an email. “I fulfilled a serious promise to a gentleman I’ll never see again, and with that done, I sleep better.”

To learn more, go to pa.Marion.fl.us or call (352) 368-8300.

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Points by Woody Blackwell

Painting by Micky Summers

MCPS releases updated data on mental health and discipline

By Caroline Brauchler caroline@ocalagazette.com

Behavior specialists from Marion County Public Schools studied trends in mental health and discipline over the past year and have identified primar y concerns with student drug use and fighting.

In comparison to the previous school year, the rate of expulsions has been much higher this school year. As of Feb. 2, about 80 students had committed offenses that resulted in expulsion, while the previous year’s rate was about 120 for the entire school year.

There is a perfectly reasonable explanation for this, and it’s not solely due to more students being expelled, said Danielle Livengood, director of secondar y education.

“We had a change with our consequences for drugs,” Livengood said. “How the code of conduct read last year was that if it was your first offense, you could come to drug diversion in lieu of being alternatively placed.”

Livengood said this policy was removed because many students did not have available transportation to get to a diversion program. Now, without a diversion program, more students, particularly for drug offenses, are put in alternative placement schools.

“The work that we’re doing right now with the (Marion County) Hospital District (is) to create our own diversion program,” she said. “We do recognize that we had more students this year within alternative placements because of drug offenses.”

The discipline data from the first semester of this school year, from August to December 2022, divides the offenses into three sections: fights and physical altercations, drug offenses and “other.”

About 250 incidents were reported that resulted in alternative placements. Fights and physical violence made up 18% of these, drug offenses made up 40% and all other offenses made up 42%

In comparison to the previous year, there were more than 500 offenses that resulted in alternative placements, the majority of which were for other offenses, with fewer incidents related to drugs, fighting and violence.

The issues that students are facing in schools also reflects the juvenile misdemeanor and felony rates outside of school and in the community at large, said Livengood.

The district also conducts threat assessments to survey any students with mental health issues who could potentially cause harm or pose a threat to students, staff and schools. The data compiled through threat assessments showed the majority of incidents were transient, or found to have posed little or no threat to schools once investigated, said Amanda Steckman, coordinator of mental health.

of Marion County Public Schools

At a low level, about 25 serious substantive threats took place so far this school year.

“Serious substantive level threats are indicated in orange. Those types of threats are substantiated, meaning that there was lasting intent, but the threats are associated with hands, fists and feet, so they’re more threats of fights to cause harm in that way,” Steckman said.

Very serious substantive threats took place at a similar level.

“The gray boxes indicate it’s a very serious substantive level threat,” Steckman said. “Those are higher level threats that include weapons, the use of weapons, or rape or any other significant harm that would be caused to the target.”

To counteract mental health issues, Steckman said the district implements behavior prevention planning so schools can establish a concrete protocol to address discipline needs and prevention efforts to improve future behavioral data.

Courtesy

REGISTER BY FEB. 24 FOR OCALA CITIZENS ACADEMY

Applications are being accepted through Feb. 24 for the 2023 city of Ocala Citizens Academy program. This is a free, 11-week program. Sessions will be held 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Thursdays, March 30 through June 8, at various locations. Refreshments will be provided.

Participants will visit and interact with city departments including the Ocala International Airport, Ocala Fire Rescue, Ocala Police Department, Public Works Department, Ocala Electric Utility and others. They will hear from elected officials and top city administrators, including City Manager Peter Lee. Each session will include demonstrations, a question-and-answer portion and educational discussions to give participants a better understanding of current projects and economic development opportunities.

Participants must be at least 18 years of age and be a resident or business owner in Ocala/Marion County and be able to attend a minimum of eight sessions to successfully graduate. Space is limited. To register, visit ocalafl.org/ citizensacademy or call (352) 401-3978.

CITY OF OCALA ANNOUNCES PAID INTERNSHIP PROGRAM

The City of Ocala will offer water resource internship opportunities for this summer. Participants will be introduced to the operations of the Water Resources and Engineering Department and given opportunities to work alongside professionals. Students interested in pursuing a career in utilities and local government are ideal candidates. The application deadline is 5 p.m. March 31.

The internship is open to incoming high school juniors and seniors. Of the five interns selected this cycle, two will work in engineering, two will work in water resources operations and one will work in water conservation and outreach. Each intern will receive on-the-job training and experience. This is a paid internship.

Work schedules will begin June 5 and end July 27 (contingent on the intern’s school schedule). The proposed hourly rate is $15.

To apply or learn more, visit ocalafl.org/government/ city-departments-i-z/water-resources/internships or call (352) 351-6772.

MID-FLORIDA IMAGE AWARDS CALLS FOR ENTRIES BY FEB. 27

The FPRA Mid-Florida Image Awards recognize the best in research, strategy, implementation and execution in the public relations profession. The competition recognizes the area’s best work in categories of Public Relations Programs, Collateral of Public Relations, Digital Tools of Public Relations and Student Projects in Public Relations.

The competition is conducted by local chapters of the Florida Public Relations Association to

recognize outstanding public relations programs in hometown markets and encourage and promote the development of public relations professionals in the state.

The Ocala Chapter, in association with the Lake and Volusia/Flagler chapters, hosts the Mid-Florida Image Awards competition.

The entry deadline is 11:59 p.m.

Feb. 27. Entries must be submitted online at FPRAImage.org. An entry consists of a two-page summary of the program, tool or project and

supporting materials.

Judges for the local competition are qualified, experienced and accomplished public relations professionals from a neighboring FPRA chapter.

Winners of local Image Awards are encouraged to compete at the statewide Golden Image Awards, held during FPRA’s annual conference each August.

For more information, visit fpraocala.org

KELLY ARMER APPOINTED EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF TRF

The Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation (TRF) board of directors has announced the appointment of Kelly Armer as executive director following the retirement of Pat Stickney. Armer will assume her role on March 1 and be based in the TRF administrative offices in Saratoga Springs, New York.

Founded in 1983, the TRF is

a national organization devoted to saving thoroughbred horses no longer able to compete at the racetrack from possible neglect, abuse and slaughter and provides them lifelong sanctuary. Best known for its pioneering TRF Second Chances program, the organization provides incarcerated individuals with life-changing vocational training through its

accredited equine care and stable management program. At eight correctional facilities across the U.S., including at the Lowell Correctional Institution in Marion County, the program offers second careers to horses and a second chance at life for program graduates upon release from prison.

For more information visit trfinc.org

OCALA FUTURE LEADERS’ ACADEMY

The city of Ocala announces the summer youth employment program, Ocala Future Leaders’ Academy 2023. The program is designed to create on-the-job training in preparation for future roles within the organization. It is open to Ocala residents ages 16-19. Twentyfive applicants will be chosen to participate.

Training seminars will focus on personal and professional growth, financial literacy and technical job skills and certification. Each student will be assigned a mentor to assist with learning job assignments, improving interpersonal skills and enhancing self-confidence. This is a paid program and participants are expected to

work 20-25 hours per week. Transportation assistance will be provided in the form of a SunTran bus pass valid only for the program period. Applications may be submitted online in the employment section of the city of Ocala’s website. For more information, call the Human Resources department at (352) 629-8359.

Youth fair is Feb. 23 - March 4

Continued from page A1 and have some prominent row crop farms dealing in peanuts, watermelon and seasonal veggies, to name a few.

• In Marion County, roughly 22% of our workforce is involved in agriculture in some capacity.

• We have reached a record high number of youth involved in 4-H, at over 800, making Marion County one of the leading counties statewide for youth enrollment in 4-H. Many of these youth are building life skills and mastering concepts through agriculture clubs and projects.

Less than 1% of all Americans are directly involved in the production of food and fiber, with the average age of today’s American farmer approaching 60. Encouraging agriculture amongst our youth is paramount for the future security of our food source.

• The Marion County Board of County Commissioners proclaimed the Week of Feb. 13-17 as Food Check-Out Week, recognizing that Florida farmers and ranchers are unmatched in their ability to consistently produce an abundance of safe, nutritious and affordable food.

• The average American household spends an average of 10.3% of their disposable income on food. This is the lowest of any country.

LeFils provided this data from last year’s youth fair:

• 41 exhibitors sold their goats for a total of $35,301

• 63 exhibitors sold their lambs for a total of $68,590.25

134 exhibitors sold their steers for a total of $792,825.87

195 exhibitors sold their hogs for a total of $496,468.80

“How’s that for an investment in our youth!” she said with pride.

LeFils added that many of the participants also engage in community outreaches.

“We broke records with prices and our sales last year. Some of our 4-H clubs raised funds for Kimberly’s Cottage, Brian’s All-Stars, Hillcrest School and a scholarship fund for Landon Yerk (a

former exhibitor who was killed in a 2020 car accident). There is so much good news about our fair,” she said.

FAMILY ANGLE

For the Peebles family, their involvement in the SEYF and 4-H has been consistent for a number of years. Josh said his brother and sister were exhibitors in the fair but he was too busy when he was younger. He has been very involved, however, through the participation of his sons. Meghan has been a co-leader of the Cracker Country 4-H Club for three years and this year became the leader.

For Clay, taking care of his steer Charlie means the boy has to be diligent in not only making sure the animal has food and water, he also must keep a record book of those feedings and other data and train the animal for the show ring.

“He usually comes down here and walks him every day, and he has to feed him, provide hay for him and spend time with him,” said Josh. “They have to keep a log of their feed, how much per day they eat; it’s quite a bit, including how much it costs. They have to figure depreciation. Obviously, at his age, there’s a lot we have to help him with.”

“You learn that steers are not something to play around with. They can be very dangerous, and they can sense your fear. So, you try to not be afraid around them,” Clay stated. “That’s the cool thing about them. You can learn a lot of stuff.”

Clay’s steer last year was one of only four that were ranked as choice-plus, which is one category in grading beef.

“His was one of only four that were considered choice-plus and above out of 140-something steers,” said Josh. “You

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have prime, which is your best, and there was only one prime I think in the entire state. And it came from Marion County, from the Baldwin Angus Ranch. Clay had a very good steer last year.”

Part of participating in the SEYF means the exhibitors and livestock part ways when the animals are sold to the highest bidder. Sometimes, that means tears and breakdowns on the parts of the youngsters.

Josh said because they are a farming family, Clay understands that part of it.

“That’s what we do. We raise steers every year and we process our own, so he’s used to it. That’s part of the project. Obviously, you get attached to them, but he knows what it’s about,” he said.

As for whether he wants to be a farmer or cattleman when he grows up, Clay said, “Yes’m, a little of both. I like them both pretty much the same.”

AG VENTURES

The Marion County Farm Bureau sponsors a program called Ag Ventures during each year’s SEYF. The outreach will bring about 900 second graders, from 12 different schools around Marion County, to the livestock pavilion on March 1 and 2.

According to Julie Wall, Federation Coordinator for the Marion County Farm Bureau, the youngsters will get a firsthand look at 12 of Florida’s major agricultural commodities.

“During Ag Ventures, students will be planting seeds and learning about being good stewards of the land, playing marshmallow bingo while learning about beef cattle, meeting baby chicks while learning about poultry, petting a pony during their equine visit, sampling fresh citrus and learning about forestry byproducts and the importance of bees to our food system. The students will also be introduced to blueberries, goats and rabbits, all by volunteers from within each industry,” Wall said.

The 2023 Ag Ventures program has been organized and funded by the Marion

County Farm Bureau and is a cooperative effort between the bureau, Marion County Public Schools, the Southeastern Youth Fair and the local agriculture industry, Wall noted.

AG DASH AND MORE

The Ag Dash 5K will begin at 8 a.m. on Feb. 25 at the livestock pavilion and all proceeds will benefit the SEYF. The race will feature mounted cowhands at the start/finish line. The first 200 finishers will receive a medal. To sign up, go to agdash5k.itsyourrace.com/event. aspx?id=13065

The full schedule of SEFY events lists activities such as numerous animal shows, dinners, a barbecue contest, skill-a-thons, tractor driving, a speech contest and exhibits such as horticulture/gardening. The SEYF is free to attend and spectators are welcome.

The fair will have approximately 150 market steers, 250 market swine, 70 market lambs and 50 market goats, which will be sold throughout the week. Online bidding will be available and information about how to register will be posted on the SEYF website the week prior to the fair.

The Southeastern Livestock Pavilion is located at 2232 NE Jacksonville Road, Ocala. For more information, go to seyfair.com

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“It’s a treasured tradition in our county that brings our community together and honors our roots in agriculture.”

Molly Rowe Southeastern Youth Fair President

Clay Peebles, 10, a member of the Cracker Country 4-H, holds his steer, Charlie, as they practice for Steer Showmanship at his family’s farm in the Ocala National Forest on Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2023. [Bruce Ackerman/ Ocala Gazette] 2022.

Attorney for Personal Representative: SUSAN SULLIVAN, ESQ. SUSAN SULLIVAN, PA 4752 County Road 466A Wildwood, FL 34785 (352)689-0045 (352)689-0046 FAX Florida Bar No. 0013293 villageslawyer@gmail.com Personal Representative:

SALLY GARRETT 1075 Burnettown Pl The Villages, FL 32162

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION

IN RE: ESTATE OF JOHN LOGAN PETERSON

Deceased.

Public

IN THE CIRCUIT

ceased File No. 22-CP-002048 AX

JR.,

TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of WILLIS VAN CORNELIUS, JR., deceased, whose date of death was June 28, 2022, is pending in the Circuit Court for Marion County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 110 NW

other creditors of the decedent and other persons who have claims or demands against the decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, must file their claims with this court, WITHIN THREE (3) MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE.

DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent's estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE.

ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT'S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.

The date of first publication of this notice is February 17, 2023.

THOMAS R. PEPPLER, ESQ. Florida Bar No.: 275271 Peppler Law, PA 3208 W. SR 426, Suite 1040 Oviedo, FL 32765 Tel (407) 792-2773

Primary: Tom@PepplerLaw.com

Secondary: Mel@PepplerLaw.com

THAT IS 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER YOU RECEIVE A COPY OF THIS NOTICE. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons who have claims or demands against the decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, must file their claims with the court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT SO FILED WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. EVEN IF A CLAIM IS NOT BARRED BY THE LIMITATIONS DESCRIBED ABOVE, ALL CLAIMS WHICH HAVE NOT BEEN FILED WILL BE BARRED TWO YEARS AFTER DECEDENT’S DEATH.

The date of death of the decedent is:

February 2, 2023. The date of first publication of this Notice is February 17, 2023.

Attorney for Personal Representative:

JOSHUA L. MOSES Richard & Moses, LLC Florida Bar No. 119304 808 E Fort King Street Ocala, FL 34471 (352) 369-1300 Primary Email: Josh@RMProbate.com

contingent or unliquidated claims, must file their claims with the court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT SO FILED WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. EVEN IF A CLAIM IS NOT BARRED BY THE LIMITATIONS DESCRIBED ABOVE, ALL CLAIMS WHICH HAVE NOT BEEN FILED WILL BE BARRED TWO YEARS AFTER DECEDENT’S DEATH. The date of death of the decedent is: December 15, 2022 The date of first publication of this

of Elections, in Ocala, Florida, no later than thirty (30) days after the date of this publishing. Failure to respond will result in a determination of ineligibility by the Supervisor and your name will be removed from the statewide voter registration system.

Wesley Wilcox Marion County Supervisor of Elections 981 NE 16th Street Ocala, Florida 34470

KIETZMANN, Deceased. CASE NO: 2023-CP-207 NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The name of the decedent, the designation of the court in which the administration of this estate is pending, and the file number are indicated above. The address of the court is 110 N.W. 1st Avenue, Ocala, FL 34475. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are indicated below.

If you have been served with a copy of this notice and you have any claim or demand against the decedent’s estate, even if that claim is unmatured, contingent or unliquidated, you must file your claim with the court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF A DATE THAT IS 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER YOU RECEIVE A COPY OF THIS NOTICE. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons who have claims or demands against the decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, must file their claims with the court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT SO FILED WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. EVEN IF A CLAIM IS NOT BARRED BY THE LIMITATIONS DESCRIBED ABOVE, ALL CLAIMS WHICH HAVE NOT BEEN FILED WILL BE BARRED TWO YEARS AFTER DECEDENT’S DEATH.

The date of death of the decedent is:

January 10, 2023

The date of first publication of this Notice is February 10, 2023.

Attorney for Personal Representative:

JOSHUA L. MOSES Richard & Moses, LLC Florida Bar No.

Personal Representative: JAMES A. BECKWITH 1314 Waxwing Drive Dewitt, MI 48820 IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MARION COUNTY FLORIDA IN RE: ESTATE OF Jon Riser Thompson, Deceased. CASE NUMBER: 23-CP-0346 /

NOTICE TO CREDITORS (summary administration)

TO ALL PERSONS HAVING CLAIMS OR DEMANDS AGAINST THE ABOVE ESTATE:

You are hereby notified that an Order of Summary Administration has been entered in the estate of Jon Riser Thompson, deceased, file number 23CP000346AX,

Program gained traction in 2021

Continued from page A1 the program now also includes Ocala Fire Rescue (OFR), the Ocala Police Department, the Fifth Judicial Circuit, The Vines, AdviniaCare, Hospice of Marion County, the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF), NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) of Marion County, Florida Department of Elder Affairs, Interfaith Emergency Services, SMA Healthcare, the Florida Public Guardian Programs, Community Companion Care, AdventHealth Ocala and HCA Florida Ocala Hospital.

The partnering agencies regularly check in with one another to identify seniors in crisis. Seniors who call 911 excessively or who frequently visit emergency rooms when they don’t have a real emergency are especially targeted because they strain the emergency response system needlessly.

“We triage and prioritize those who need help the most and keep track of them through case management and a care plan,” said Briana Kelley, Ph.D., a human services counselor at MSS, whom Martinez credits as the mastermind behind the program.

“Our goal is to reduce the time spent with them each week and move positively toward a goal,” Kelley said.

A paramedicine team, comprised of OFR Capt. Chris Hickman and MSS clinician Vicky Harper, visit the seniors in crisis several times a week and delve deep into the core issues affecting them, give them care, and direct them to the proper resources.

“We’re able to directly help folks that are underserved and under-cared for,” said Hickman. “It allows us to home in on specific needs and look at the person as a whole.”

Sometimes, he said, it may come down to a senior not having a primary care doctor or regular access to health care, or even medicine.

“Do they have the medications they need?” said Hickman. “If they have no insurance, we have a

program in the community that will help them pay for medication.”

Lately, the team has been dealing with a lot of dementia patients in its large baby boomer population, which can be challenging.

“We just went to a presentation on dementia and now we’re able to use a lot of the techniques we learned to deescalate things,” said Hickman.

Kelley said there are myriad barriers and deterrents that exist for the county’s growing senior population, many of whom don’t have family members or a guardian nearby to help them navigate potential resources.

“We identify gaps of service and find ways to meet their needs,” said Kelley, who has been with the agency since February 2020.

“We figure out ways to keep their quality of life and independence going as long as possible,’’ she added. “If they need to transition, then we do that. If hospice is necessary, then we’ll make the referral to hospice. If Alzheimer’s training is needed, we make that referral, too.”

Kelley noted, “We also have a lot of seniors who are raising their grandchildren and need support.”

So far, the program has assisted 75 seniors who are case-managed over a 90-day period, as well as many “one-time” contacts and contact with high utilizers–those who call 911 too much and visit emergency rooms unnecessarily, Kelley said.

Sgt. Clint Smith of the MCSO said the agency has benefitted from the partnership, especially after it started looking into the number of 911 calls from a dozen seniors with mental or cognitive health issues who were constantly calling the agency for nonlaw enforcement matters.

“Those 12 individuals took up 1,330 hours of time from the sheriff’s office for non-emergencies in 2021,’’ said Smith. “What we’ve seen from partnering with Marion Senior Services is an average of a 54% decrease in calls from those 12

individuals for 2022. That’s huge for us; that’s 700 hours of time we’ve saved.”

Now, when deputies respond to a call that ends up not being a law enforcement issue, Smith said, they act as a referral service and help point the caller in the right direction, hopefully staving off any more unnecessary calls to 911.

“That’s the benefit from it; now we can spend time fighting crime and doing the things we’re expected to do,” said Smith, a 17-year veteran of the MCSO. “It’s the right thing to do and it helps the community.”

Martinez said she has been actively seeking funds from lawmakers in Tallahassee to keep the program going. A recent appropriations request by MSS for $483,000 is being backed by Rep. Stan McClain in Florida’s House of Representatives and Sen. Dennis Baxley in the Florida Senate, with support from Sen. Keith Perry.

The monies would support the hiring of three more staffers, including a dedicated crisis intervention specialist, another clinician and a care coordinator, said Martinez.

“We are so thankful for the support of our local legislators,” she said.

In the meantime, Martinez has been a featured speaker at several events, including the Southeastern Association of Area Agencies on Aging conference in September, during which she outlined Marion’s program.

“A couple of area agencies came up to me afterward and said they wanted to duplicate what we are doing,” said Martinez. “I’ve also pitched our program to the Department of Elder Affairs and they are looking to come and see the program for themselves.”

Being a potential model for other similar organizations to emulate is gratifying, but ever-so-slightly nerveracking, too.

“We are still learning as we go,” said Martinez. “It’s like building an airplane while in flight.”

To learn more, go to marionseniorservices.org

Why moving public notices to government websites is a bad idea

By Jim Fogler President & CEO Florida Press Association, representing the daily and weekly newspapers of Florida jfogler@flpress.com

Last year, the Legislature passed a public notice bill (HB 7049) that went into effect Jan. 1. The new law gives counties the option to place public notices solely on their own government website and dispense with any such notice in the traditional format—newspapers and newspaper websites.

The reasons given for county websites vary—saving the government money, newspapers are dying, it’s a newspaper subsidy, no one reads public notices, etc. But a closer look reveals another side to the story, one that casts doubt and reveals the downsides of such a plan.

In fact, government websiteonly notice will push government actions further into the shadows and make it less transparent. And it will make it harder for Floridians to monitor their local government and hold their leaders accountable.

Public notices cover a host of government activities, ranging from local millage rates and zoning changes to delinquent taxes and school board decisions. They can herald an important hearing by elected officials on matters crucial to everyday lives. The notices are, in fact, a form of basic constitutional due process protecting the rights of citizens and their property in a functioning democracy.

Under the traditional process, the notices are not just placed

in the printed newspaper. They are also required by law to be posted visibly on the newspaper’s website. In addition, the notices are required to be uploaded to a searchable FPA website that aggregates all Florida government notices at floridapublicnotices.com.

If a citizen wants follow-up notices to those posted to the site (or the newspaper’s site), he or she can request email alerts of the new notices. These services—required by law—are free to the public; there is no paywall. What’s more, the aggregated site continues to be modernized and upgraded to serve Florida’s state government, as well as its towns, municipalities, businesses and taxpayers.

If this traditional process is discarded and notices move to the county website, they no longer will be posted in newspapers or on the statewide website. The result will be a county-by-county patchwork of notices around the states— making public notices less visible and accessible to the public.

What about the claim that newspapers are dying? While print circulation in daily papers has declined, weekly newspapers are growing, and our dailies are seeing increases in digital subscriptions and page views. In some cases, newspapers are experiencing double-digit online growth.

Newspapers in Florida alone reach 5.6 million readers in any given week, and our newspaper websites typically reach more audience than most city or county websites and draw a minimum of 53 million unique online users in any given month. The claim of newspaper irrelevancy is simply not true. They are more relevant

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than ever.

So, what about cost savings the government websites will produce?

In the counties considering this change, no specific savings have been outlined. If county websites replace newspapers, the local governments will be required to recreate the same infrastructure newspaper have already have— increasing the cost of government.

In addition, without an investment in marketing to direct citizens to hundreds of government websites, the public will not know where to find public notices. Also, on the expense front, county government public notice websites will also be required to provide citizens, if requested, a copy of notices via email or firstclass mail—another new cost.

As for the charge that the notices are a newspaper subsidy, it’s true newspapers derive some revenue from them but calling it a subsidy ignores the fact that newspapers perform a service just as other county vendors do.

This issue is not only about the money. It’s about an independent publisher helping to ensure government transparency and honesty.

Public notices belong in a public forum—newspapers— where citizens are most likely to see them. Public notices should remain in newspapers, not placed on hundreds of different government websites with the hope that people will find them. Call your county and city officials to share your views. Tell them the other side of the story— and directly from citizens who care.

POLICE CHIEFS BACK ‘CONSTITUTIONAL CARRY’

By Florida News Service

The Florida Police Chiefs Association on Monday supported proposals that would allow people to carry firearms without concealed-weapons licenses, joining the Florida Sheriffs Association in backing the legislation. “Responsible gun ownership doesn’t begin with the issuance of a government permit,” Fellsmere Police Chief Keith Touchberry, president of the police chiefs’ association, said in a prepared statement. “It begins with training in how to safely handle, carry, use and store a weapon, and it continues with maintaining those competencies while complying with all applicable local, state and federal laws and regulations. Ultimately, gun safety means that a lawful gun owner who meets the statutory requirements for a concealed weapons permit, whether obtaining one or not, can protect themselves while not compromising the safety of their family, the community, or law enforcement.”

Bills filed in the House and Senate (HB 543 and SB 150) would eliminate a requirement that people get state concealed-weapons licenses to carry guns in Florida—a proposed change that supporters call “constitutional carry.” Marion County Sheriff Billy Woods has previously indicated he supports the measure, but explained that licensing wouldn’t go away all together since Floridians who hold carry licenses enjoy the benefit of reciprocity agreements with 38 other states, which allows Floridians to legally carry a weapon in those states.

While the groups of police chiefs and sheriffs have backed the bills, the Giffords gun-control group issued a statement Monday that criticized the legislation and pointed to Tuesday’s fifth anniversary of the shooting at Parkland’s Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School that killed 17 people.

“This ‘no questions asked’ permitless carry bill will endanger Florida’s children,” former U.S. Rep. Debbie Mucarsel-Powell, a Giffords Florida senior adviser, said in a prepared statement. “We must come together and make our voices heard.”

Under state law, guns are prohibited on a school campus. Additionally, federal law restricts gun possession within a “school zone,” described as 1,000 feet from a school’s grounds. According to the U.S. Concealed Carry Association, this includes all public roads and sidewalks within that 1,000-foot buffer zone but “does not apply on private property, to a licensed concealed firearm permittee or an unloaded weapon in a locked container/rack.”

The bills are filed for consideration during the legislative session that will start March 7.

Ocala Gazette contributed to this report.

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People, Places & Things

Fabulous flotsam and jetsam

Organic designer Jane Maroni teams up with Ocala native and woodworker John Claytor to create hypnotic air sculptures from driftwood and other found objects.

By Julie Garisto julie@magnoliamediaco.com

Some artists exhibit technical skill and others distinguish themselves with a gift for recognizing and envisioning the transcendent in our everyday surroundings.

Artist Jane Maroni, owner of Jane Maroni Organic Design, belongs to the latter camp. She admits that she’s a terrible illustrator (“I can barely play hangman”), but her tactile and three-dimensional figural talents have manifested in the unique and eye-catching expressions of sculptural art.

Born and raised in Rhode Island, Maroni began her art career with glass and later began collecting driftwood, fishbones, coconuts, seeds and other natural objects she found on the beach during her daily walks.

Her one-of-a-kind pieces combine creative serendipity, engineering and design. Maroni’s mobile-like air sculptures, jewelry and even furniture take on a wholly unique raw, primitive and unique aesthetic of their own, and each piece, she said, represents a deep and personal expression of nature, balance, harmony and peace.

“Every single design is driven by emotions or mood of any given day or moment,” Maroni said.

An admirable facet of Maroni’s ethos, both personally and professionally driven, conveys through a refusal to accept the obsolescence of any abandoned or found object or living thing. She and her husband have rescued dogs in Mexico and she became an expert at organic gardening and pickling leftover food in Mason jars.

After spending a little more than a decade on the Mexican west coast, and some time in Hawaii before that, she and her husband, Chris Nielsen, relocated to the eastern U.S, eventually landing for the time being in north central Florida, where they met John Claytor at the Brownwood Farmers Market in Wildwood last December.

The stop for bric-a-brac, jams and cute stocking stuffers wasn’t the typical venue that Maroni sought to exhibit her primevally elegant air sculptures, but destiny seemed to have a hand in things when veteran woodworker and sculptor Claytor, owner of Dead Head Logging in Belleview, stopped to look at her art.

Claytor recently retired from submerged timber harvesting and now acts as an advisor for the trade. On seeing Maroni’s mobiles, he was mesmerized by the ethereal movement of the driftwood and objects bobbing and weaving in a gentle breeze.

“She had a few pieces hanging and I stood there and looked at them and I said, ‘This is cool stuff,’ he recalled of their meeting. “She asked me if I had any questions. I said, no, that I’d just like to look at it and take it in. I spent about 30 or 45 minutes there looking and noticed I’d been there a long time.”

Claytor, unbeknownst to him, had engaged in what Maroni calls “visual yoga,” a state of mind her air sculptures help facilitate in their viewers.

“Visual yoga is watching a piece dance while the viewer is either sitting or lying down, appreciating the physically calming and relaxing effects of every piece,” the sculptor explained.

“The sculptures seem to have a tranquilizing kind of effect,” she added, “the same way for a baby lying in a crib who starts crying. This is an adult version of that.”

Nielsen, Maroni’s husband of 33 years, is often a big help in constructing the pieces. She credits

him as an engineer of her designs. Before they left Rhode Island, he was a commercial fisherman. She had an art gallery in Narragansett when they met.

Around 13 years ago, the couple arrived at a beach town north of Puerto Vallarta, where the beaches were “loaded with driftwood,” according to Nielsen.

Fast-forward to that fateful December 2022 day, when Claytor stood hypnotized by Maroni’s sculptures.

She asked him again if there was anything she could answer.

“I said, ‘I think you need to come to my house and see what I do and what I have,’” Claytor responded.

It was jaw-dropping for Maroni to see Claytor’s compound filled with driftwood art and other wood masterpieces.

Some of it now co-stars in her creations.

“She has the insight,” Claytor said of his recent collaborator, underplaying his own skills and accomplishments in creating what he calls “stuff.”

Claytor has exhibited his designs in museums throughout Florida and across the U.S. His home estate and business are a sprawling wonderland of woodwork, including a gazebo that’s lovely enough to get married in.

He recovered his first underwater log in 1970 and had been a full-time deadhead logger before he retired from the wood-harvesting game and sold that portion of his business enterprises a year and a half ago.

In his younger years, Claytor manned a barge and retrieved sunken logs and timber that had already been cut, most of it more than 100 years ago.

The rarity, strength and beauty of the river wood makes it more valuable, he told the “Gazette’s” sister publication, “Ocala Style” magazine, in a 2016 interview, adding that much time, effort and money goes into getting it.

The lifelong Floridian doesn’t use the word “art” lightly and defers to Maroni as the artist of their collaboration.

“My stuff was in the Peter Powell Roberts Museum in Avon Park for seven years,” he said, “but I’ve done stuff all over the country and Florida—the Smithsonian, you name it—created from what I’ve found underwater.”

One of Claytor’s collaborations with Maroni, an air sculpture titled “Painted Desert,” features two pieces of wood that were submerged for years off the Florida coast, until he harvested them.

“I personally like the simplicity of two bold pieces united to create one,” Maroni said of the sculpture. “Our mobiles are intended for indoors; and while this piece appears to be heavy, it is actually quite light in weight.”

“The Wrangler,” an homage to the artist’s time in Ocala’s horse country, includes rider accoutrements. Maroni found most of its wood in Oregon, but some wood beads and pieces come from Claytor’s collection.

“This piece was a challenge because it took three months to get my hands on this old tackle,” she wrote on the photo’s Instagram caption, adding a thanks to Claytor’s wife, Cathy, and a shout-out to everyone who helped her with the riding gear.

For more information about Maroni’s installations, visit janemaroniorganicdesigns.com. For information about Claytor’s wood sculptures, go to facebook.com/ DeadHeadLogging.

Woodworking dream team: from left, John Claytor, has contributed his driftwood to artist Jane Maroni (center), who with the help of her husband, Chris Nielsen, creates air sculptures of found wood and other objects. [Julie Garisto]

Created from equestrian items and Claytor’s wood contributions.

Sedan and driver are ‘survivors’

Jerry Hill said his 1929 Oakland, found in a barn after years in storage, helped him through treatments for leukemia.

By Andy Fillmore Correspondent

The 13th annual Marion County Tax Collector’s Charity Car Show on Feb. 25 will feature about 200 collectible vehicles, including Jerry Hill’s unrestored 1929 Oakland. Both Hill and his four-door sedan are survivors. Hill, 66, was diagnosed with leukemia about three years ago.

“My doctor told me it was like winning the lottery, but not in a good way,” Hill said.

Hill worked for more than 30 years at Post Office Tire and most recently with the city of Ocala as an ASE Master Certified Technician vehicle mechanic. He credited health checks through his city job for detection of the life-threatening illness.

Hill received treatment for leukemia at the Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa, including multiple chemotherapy treatments and “a new immune system” by way of a bone marrow transplant through Be The Match (bethematch.org), an organization operated by the National Marrow Donor Program. Hill said the bone marrow he received was donated by an unidentified woman in Germany.

“God, my supportive family (wife Carol Ann and their children Christin and Joshua) and my antique car pulled me through. I’m fine now. I’m cancer free; thank God,” he said.

Hill found the Oakland about six years ago on Craigslist through someone in Lecanto. His research had determined the car was owned by someone in Maine, who had found it in a barn after years of being in storage.

According to automotivehistory.org, the Oakland car line was replaced by Pontiac.

“It was on this day in automotive history in 1926, General Motors officially introduced Pontiac at the New York Auto Show as a companion brand to their modestly priced Oakland line. Soon after Pontiac sales began, it far outsold its partner. The increasing sales figures led GM to shut down Oakland in 1932 and focus on their hot new car. Pontiac thus became the only automotive companion marque to survive its parent company,” stated a Jan. 3, 2022, article on the website.

Hill’s mostly original Oakland has a straight sixcylinder engine, three-speed floor shift, factory six-volt charging system and the original Delco-Remy starter and

generator. Wood spoke wheels, three side windows, an oval rear window and running boards are special touches on the car, which has a place to insert a hand crank to start the engine manually if necessary.

A “Body by Fisher” label is on the side of the car and a Fisher body serial number is on the floorboard. Hill said the engine is 212 cubic inches and the wheelbase is 117 inches.

“I love the car; I don’t want to change it,” he said.

The car reaches perhaps 50 mph top speed and has 69,000 miles on the odometer. Hill said the leaf spring type suspension gives a “smooth ride.”

Keith Ponder, director of operations for the Marion County Tax Collector’s Office, said the car show averages $12,000 in proceeds annually, which is distributed among local charities.

He said about $5,000 is typically sent to Interfaith Emergency Services, with a focus on the Food 4 Kids program, and the balance is broken up among charities including the Arthur J. Semesco Foundation, Wreaths Across America, Michelle-O-Gram, Samaritan’s Purse, Humane Society of Marion County, Ocala Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Center, Marion County

Veterans Council (Stuff the Bus), Marion County Children’s Alliance, Helping Hands and ARC of Marion County.

National Parts Depot (NPD), a nationwide supplier of parts for 1950s to 1990s collectible cars and trucks, which has a warehouse in Ocala, has been a substantial contributor to the show for more than 10 years.

“We take pride in supporting our hobby and giving back to the community and look forward to teaming up with the Tax Collector’s Office every year,” stated Rick Schmidt, NPD vice president and chief operating officer, in an email.

George Albright, the Marion County Tax Collector, is an avid car enthusiast. He will display his latest collectible, an all original 1954 Dodge Royal sedan, which he called a “survivor” car from Oklahoma.

The car’s body finish color is “Willow Green” and the roof is “Cumberland Green,” Albright said. The interior is bright green, including the steering wheel. The car has a “Red Ram” 241 cubic inch V-8 engine, one of the early issues of the venerable “hemi” power plant, and a three-speed steering column mounted shift transmission. It still has a plastic cover on the front bench seat.

Pamela and Frank Stafford

plan to join the show, along with other members of the Kingdom of the Sun Chapter of the Antique Automobile Club of America (AACA). She said the show is “well organized” and spotlights cars from the 1920s to the present.

Hill also is a member of the AACA.

Gene Liles, a car buff and owner of Liles Collison Service, has displayed vehicles at the tax collector’s show for several years, including a “tricked out” highly customized milk truck. Liles said the show gets “a little bigger and better” every year.

The car show will take place at the McPherson Governmental Complex at 503 SE 25th Ave., Ocala. There is no admission fee for spectators. The event will run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and include Top 25 trophies, People’s Choice Award, a kids’ play zone with a bounce house, a car parts swap, craft vendors, a Tower Hill Nursery plant sale, a Humane Society of Marion County display, music and food for purchase.

The car entry fee on the day of the show is $20.

To register, call (352) 368-8206.

Grackle

February special: $14 adoptions!

Adoptions include county license, microchip insertion, up-to-date vaccinations and spay/neuter surgery.

Ana Ana wants a friend. This 5-year-old, female dog is perfectly willing to keep you entertained in exchange for room and board. She’s a social media star in the making!

Photos By Bruce Ackerman Ocala Gazette

Top photos: Jerry Hill with his antique 1929 unrestored Oakland at his home in northeast Ocala on Friday, Feb. 10, 2023.

A first, and an inspiration

Orlando-based actor Jim Coleman brings to life the world’s first Black American priest.

By Julie Garisto julie@magnoliamediaco.com

Father Augustus Tolton (185497) was born into slavery and became the first recognized Black American man ordained to the Roman Catholic priesthood.

Raised Catholic by his mother, Tolton studied formally in Rome because no American seminary would accept him because of his race.

Today, the pioneering priest is a leading candidate for sainthood and would become the first Black American saint (the first of six African Americans under consideration) to be canonized. Pope Francis advanced the cause for his canonization by signing a decree issued by the Vatican Congregation for the Causes of Saints on June 11, 2019.

Orlando-based actor Jim Coleman is currently portraying the groundbreaking and would-be saint in “Tolton: From Slave to Priest.” Equal parts one-person-show and immersive multimedia experience, the nationally touring play will make a stop in Ocala at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 28, at Blessed Trinity Catholic Church, 5 SE 17th St., Ocala. Presented by St. Luke Productions,

the performance is free, but an offering basket will be passed to cover expenses.

“I saw the first Black president in America,” Coleman said. “I saw the first Black woman become vice president, and the first black woman to be a Supreme Court Justice. I would love to see the first black American saint. That would be very inspirational. The fact that I am portraying him would make it even more special.”

Raised Baptist, Coleman said the show isn’t dogmatic though it’s centered on a Black Catholic priest. The production, he said, appeals to people of all faiths and is an inspiring way to celebrate Black History Month. Coleman performs solo on stage, with a cast of characters projected on the screen behind him. He said he has witnessed people’s hearts, minds and spirits transformed during his performances.

“This show is for everyone right now,” he emphasized. “Father Tolton has changed my life. Portraying him started out as a job, but now I see it as a mission.”

Before he became a professional actor, Coleman served in the U.S. Army as a medic. He has appeared in more than 50 national commercials and is best known for portraying Roger Parker in the Nickelodeon series “My Brother and Me.”

The 62-year-old actor said he had his share of struggles before he pursued a full-time acting career. His drama teacher helped him realize his potential as an artist.

“My path was one that was in line for prison rather than performing,” he admitted. “Sherry Mullens saw something in me, and she pushed me, and she encouraged me, and believe it or not, here I am, an actor for over 30 years, full-time.”

Coleman’s role as Tolton has nurtured and emboldened his spirit.

“This show has been a blessing for me. It has changed my heart, my mind and my spirit. I feel renewed and humbled portraying Father Tolton,” he said.

From his birth into slavery as the child of Martha Jane Chisley and Peter Paul Tolton in Missouri, Father Augustus Tolton endured torture, life-threatening fear, brutal child labor, tremendous loss and other trauma. On April 1, 1854, his parents’ masters permitted them to legally marry. Tolton’s mother escaped with him and his siblings to Quincy, Illinois, in 1861. In 1863, he started working in a tobacco factory at the age of 9. His brother Charles died at age 10, the same year that President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation legally freed

slaves in the Confederacy.

But that wouldn’t be the end of Tolton’s struggles. In 1865, as the Civil War was ending, Tolton entered the St. Boniface School in Illinois and was forced to leave a month later because the parish and staff received threats and harassment. Because no American church would accept him, he received his Holy Orders at St. John Lateran Basilica in Rome on April 24, 1886 and conducted his first Mass at the Vatican’s St. Peter’s Basilica the next day. He returned as a missionary to the United States, in Quincy, Illinois. On July 18 that year, he became pastor of St. Joseph Church.

“His story is one of perseverance, tragedy and triumph,” Coleman said. “It opened my eyes to a lot of things. Some of the things that we consider difficult, aren’t that difficult at all if we compare our problems to the struggles Father Tolton endured during his life.”

To learn more about the show and its nationwide tour, visit bit.ly/3E93gCZ

Marion Rotary Duck Derby at Tuscawilla Park

The Marion Rotary Duck Derby was held at Tuscawilla Park in Ocala on Saturday, Feb. 11, 2023. More than 5,000 ducks were floated in Lake Tuscawilla. People could adopt a duck during the fundraiser for the city of Ocala Discovery Center and other local charities.

Prizes for the fastest ducks were: 1st prize - Let Them Play Scholarship, $2,000; 2nd placePeggy Bourne, $1,000; and 3rd place - Dave VanSlylce, $500.

Jim Coleman portrays Father Augustus Tolton in St. Luke Productions’ touring theater production of “Tolton: From Slave to Priest.” [Courtesy of St. Luke Productions via Catholic Review]

Photos By Bruce Ackerman Ocala Gazette

Alilah Leconte, 1, blows into her duck call.

Thousands of rubber ducks are shown floating in Lake Tuscawilla.

Tim Dean, left, and Bill Mess, both of the Marion Rotary Club, scoop out rubber ducks.

Tim Dean of the Marion Rotary Club gathers up rubber ducks.

Bird of the Week

Sudoku is played on a grid of 9 x 9 spaces. Within the rows and columns are 9 “squares” (made up of 3 x 3 spaces). Each row, column and square (9 spaces each) needs to be filled out with the numbers 1-9, without repeating any numbers within the same row, column or square.

By Michael Warren

Sometimes in the early evening you’ll hear a plaintive call that sounds like, “Who cooks for you?” That’s a barred owl, Marion County’s most common owl. This dancing owl was fluffing up for a cool evening on a trail at the Fort King National Historic Landmark. The short, wooded trails behind the park take you to a sump spring that once provided water for the historic fort. It’s a great spot for birding.

Great Backyard Bird Count

You can be part of this annual citizen initiative.

By Barbara Schwartz Secretary, Marion Audubon Society

The 35th annual Great Backyard Bird Count (GBBC) begins Friday, Feb. 17 and runs through Monday, Feb. 20. This is an opportunity to participate in a globally occurring citizen science event.

The GBBC has been done every year since 1988. It is a joint project of the Cornell University Lab of Ornithology (bird science) and the National Audubon Society. You do not have to be an ornithologist or an experienced birder to participate.

Here are some tips to get you started: On your cellphone: Download the Merlin bird ID app and the eBird mobile app. Marion Audubon Society has complete instructional videos for both apps on our YouTube channel. Make sure to add the “bird pack” for your region on both apps. Using both apps together is very helpful. Identify the birds with Merlin and list the birds on eBird. If you already have the apps

on your phone, log-in to make sure that you have the most recent updates. Use eBird.org on your computer to enter your bird lists. You can make your list manually while out bird counting and enter it at home.

So where do you go to count the birds? Anywhere! Your porch, patio, yard, local parks or at your bird feeders. At 10 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 18, Marion Audubon will lead a guided birding walk and count at Tuscawilla Park as a fundraiser for Rescuing Ocala Wildlife (ROW), the nonprofit organization that picks up injured and orphaned wildlife in our area and transports them to licensed rehabbers for care. Find more info at rowildlife.org

The Marion Audubon Society presents monthly educational programs via Zoom and many guided birding activities. You’ll find us on MeetUp and Facebook. We’d love to have you join us!

To learn more, go to marionaudubon.org

Barred owl [MichaelWarren.com]

Adult bald eagle perched at nest MR190/Audubon Florida Eagle Watch Program. [J.P. Leemans]

FEBRUARY 17-19

Ocala Holiday Premiere Horse Show

HITS Post-Time Farm, 13710 US Highway 27, Ocala

8am-6pm

Week 5 of this hunter-jumper show series includes a Grand Prix on Sunday with $25,000 and $100,000 prizes. Classes for youth riders, re-trained thoroughbreds, adult amateur riders and more. See hitsshows.com/Ocala for more info.

FEBRUARY 17

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.

FEBRUARY 17-26

Marion County Fair

I-75 Flea Market, 4121 NW 44th Ave., Ocala

Hours vary, check website

The event includes carnival rides, food, magic shows, petting zoo, music and an alligator show. Wristband package is $35 for unlimited rides; single tickets are $1.50. Free parking and admission. For more info, marioncountyfairfl.com

FEBRUARY 17

LEAF Series: Let’s Get Growing

Sholom Park, 7110 SW 80th Ave., Ocala

10:30am

Learn about vegetable gardening in this presentation by UF/IFAS Extension Master Gardener Jo Leyte-Vidal, including choosing the right crops, soil preparation techniques and more. $5 registration fee, advance registration required. See sholompark.org/events for more info.

FEBRUARY 17-19

23rd Annual Greek Festival

St. Mark Greek Orthodox Church, 9926 SE 36th Ave., Belleview

Friday & Saturday 11am-8pm; Sunday 11am-6pm

This annual fundraiser is always a big hit and features Greek food and wine, live music, Greek dancers, Greek pastries, children’s activities and vendors. Door prizes, raffles and games. Event takes place indoors and outside, rain or shine. $2 donation requested for ages 12 and up. For info, stmarksgoc.org

FEBRUARY 18

Suncoast Basset Rescue 21st Annual

Sweetheart Waddle

Greater Ocala Dog Club Show Grounds, 10205 NW Gainesville Road, Ocala

9am-3pm

This fundraiser will include a 50/50 raffle, DJ, basset hound games, longest ears contest, hot dog toss and lure course. The highlight is the basset hound Waddle Parade. All dogs must be leashed. For more info, suncoastbassetrescue.org.

FEBRUARY 18 & 25

Yoga in the Park Sholom Park, 7110 SW 80th Ave., Ocala

9am Sholom Park hosts free yoga classes for all at the stage area; recurs every Saturday morning. Visit sholompark.org for details.

FEBRUARY 18 & 25

Ocala 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.

FEBRUARY 18 & 25

Farmers Swap Meet

Rural King, 2999 NW 10th St., Ocala

9am-2pm

A true farmers swap meet where chickens, ducks, quail, geese, 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.

FEBRUARY 18

Community Health Fair

Greater New Hope Church, 484 Emerald Road, Ocala

10am-1pm

The church is hosting free health screenings for cholesterol, blood pressure, diabetes, women’s health, dentistry, weight loss and move. COVID-19 booster shots will be available. Speakers from

Florida Health, Get N’ Formation Fitness and more will offer health education. For more info, Bishop Sermon at (352) 687-1130.

FEBRUARY 18-19

Silver River Knap-In

Silver River Museum at Silver Springs State Park, 1445 NE 58th Ave., Ocala

9am-4pm

Specialists in native skills will showcase their talents in this 12th annual knap-in, with flint knappers (folks who craft stone tools), archaeologists, potters, hide tanners, canoe carvers and more onsite to demonstrate their crafts. Festival admission is $8; free ages 5 and younger. Tickets include the museum and the “Dugout Canoes: Paddling Through the Americas” exhibit. When the parking lot is full, rangers will guide guests to the main park entrance, where they can catch a bus or tram to the festival site. For more details, visit silverrivermuseum.com

FEBRUARY 19

Author Presentation and Art For All

Ft. King Presbyterian Church Hope House, 13 NE 36th Ave., Ocala

1pm-5pm

In observation of Black History Month, local educator and author Daniel Banks will discuss newly discovered letters his grandfather received from luminaries such as Thurgood Marshall, Mary McLeod Bethune and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The event includes exhibits by Black artists, poets and authors. There will be refreshments, arts and crafts, music and line dancing from the KDC and the Sunshine Sliders. Free to attend.

FEBRUARY 19 & 26

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. Decorate your tent/tailgate area, and you might win a prize. Leashed dogs are welcome. For more information, visit ocalapolo.com

FEBRUARY 23

OTOW 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.

FEBRUARY 23

Purse-a-palooza Bling Fling

Temple B’nai Darom, 7465 SW 38th St., Ocala

3pm-5pm

This fundraiser offers up pre-owned purses, bags and jewelry. Brands include Michael Kors, coach, Betsey Johnson and others. Jewelry prices top out at $5 and purses are no more than $25. The admission donation is $5 and includes light refreshments. Contact Shelly Lebowitz at (352) 875-8220 if you’d like to buy a ticket in advance.

FEBRUARY 24

Park After Dark: “Soul”

Webb Field, 1501 W Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala

7pm

The city of Ocala continues its outdoor movie tradition, this month showing the PG-rated film “Soul.” It’s free to attend. Food and drink options will be available or bring your own snacks, along with chairs and blankets. For more info, ocalafl.org

FEBRUARY 24

Fessenden Reunion

Fessenden Elementary School Cafeteria, 4200 NW 89th Place, Ocala

11am-2pm

The reunion will include a fish fry, speaker Sami Atif, the revealing of a plaque and honors for members of graduating classes of Fessenden High School. The cost of $75 includes the meal, refreshments, music and a booklet. To learn more, call Fessenden School Alumni Association President Johnny Grimes at (352) 299-6985.

FEBRUARY 25

Gnome & Fairy Festival

Sholom Park, 7110 SW 80th Ave., Ocala

1pm-4pm

This annual festival kicks off spring with a magical assortment of entertainment for kids of all ages. Music this year is from the O’Possums and the Irish Echoes. Trek into the Enchanted Forest and spot gnomes and fairies hidden in the leaves; enter the Whimsical World to meet unicorns and Skippy the Dragon. Vendor booths, food options and more. $5 cash-only parking fee. Visit sholompark.org for details.

government

FEBRUARY 20 & 27

Marion County Development Review Committee

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

9am

The first step for new development 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

FEBRUARY 21

Marion County Board of County Commissioners

Meeting/Planning& Zoning

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

9am & 2pm

Regular meeting on the first and third Tuesdays of the month; P&Z portion at 2 p.m. third Tuesdays. Agendas are usually posted the Thursday prior. Agendas, minutes and video available at marionfl. legistar.com/Calendar.aspx

civic

FEBRUARY 17 & 24

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.

arts

FEBRUARY 17

Rock Painting Class

NOMA Gallery, 939 N. Magnolia Ave., Ocala

5:30pm

Learn how to paint, embellish and decorate rocks. Suitable for all ages; all supplies are included. Tickets are $15. See Eventbrite.com for purchase.

FEBRUARY 18

Art Outside the Lines Brunch

Ocala Union Station, 531 NE 1 Ave., Ocala

9am-12pm

Ocala Cultural Arts and Magnolia Art Xchange presents brunch, signature coffee drinks, presentations from arts speakers and musical performances, all set in the charm of the restored Union Station in Tuscawilla Park. For more info, contact Leslie Nottingham at (352) 629-8379

FEBRUARY 28

Ira Holmes International Film Series: “Neptune Frost”

College of Central Florida, Bldg. 8, Room 110, 3001 SW College Road, Ocala

7pm

This movie has been touted as a “sci-fi punk

FEBRUARY 21

City of Ocala City Council Meeting

City Hall, 110 SE Watula Avenue, Ocala

4pm

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

FEBRUARY 21

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

FEBRUARY 21

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

FEBRUARY 17 & 24

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

FEBRUARY 23

Marion County Departmental Operation Plan Workshop McPherson Governmental Campus Auditorium, 601 SE 25th Ave., Ocala 1pm

FEBRUARY 27

Marion County Planning & Zoning Commission Meeting

McPherson Governmental Campus Auditorium, 601 SE 25th Ave., Ocala 5:30pm Meets on the last Monday of the month. Agendas are usually posted the Thursday prior. Agendas, minutes and video available at marionfl. legistar.com/Calendar.aspx

FEBRUARY 22

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.

musical” and set in near-future Burundi. An intersex runaway and miner form a computer hacker collective and fall in love during their travails. This movie is part of an ongoing series of international films. Free to the public. For more info, CF.edu/filmseries

THROUGH MARCH 31

Long Legs & Fragility by Cara Van Leuven City Hall, 110 SE Watula Ave., Ocala

Mon-Fri, 8am-5pm

Part of the Art in City Spaces program, 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 APRIL 9

Focus on the Essence Appleton Museum of Art, 4333 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala

Tues-Sat; 10am-5pm; Sunday 12pm-5pm The photography of Anne Noggle came from a donation to the museum and highlights self-portraits

and those of her friends and family. Her photos are known for their composition and exquisite lighting. For more info, appletonmuseum.org

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 youths. For more info, appletonmuseum.org

THROUGH MAY 25

Revolutionized Textile & Fiber

Mary Sue Rich Community Center, 1821 NW 21st Ave., Ocala

Daily when center is open

Artist Ingrid Humphrey, a native Floridian, exhibits her handmade dolls and tapestries, which portray the sisterhood of women of color all over the world. Free to the public. For more info, ocalafl.org/ artincityspaces

FEBRUARY 23

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

THROUGH JUNE

9

Blessed Be the Birds Clerk’s Office, 110 SE Watula Ave., Ocala

Mon-Fri; 8am-5pm

Part of the Art in City Spaces program, 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 three-dimensional 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 youths. For more info, appletonmuseum.org

& &music nightlife

FEBRUARY 17 & 24 Courtyard Jams MCA Courtyard 23 W Broadway St., Ocala 6-9pm Music, dancing, drumming, poetry and limbo. Free to all, Friday nights weekly.

FEBRUARY 17

Clay Booker Homestead Park 1050 NE 6th Blvd., Williston

FEBRUARY 17

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

FEBRUARY 17

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

FEBRUARY 17

REL Charlie Horse 2426 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala 7pm Live music, DJ Bingo, trivia games and karaoke.

FEBRUARY 18

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

FEBRUARY 18

Shawn Manley Crazy Cucumber Market Street at Heath Brook, 4414 SW College Road, Ocala

6:30pm-9:30pm

FEBRUARY 18

Black Bird Anthem

Charlie Horse 2426 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala

7pm

FEBRUARY 18

Peaches & Karim

The Yellow Pony World Equestrian Center Ocala, 1390 NW 80th Ave., Ocala

6-9pm

FEBRUARY 19

Charity Cox

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

FEBRUARY 19

Al Manfredi Charlie Horse 2426 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala

FEBRUARY 22

Mark Raisch The Yellow Pony World Equestrian Center Ocala, 1390 NW 80th Ave., Ocala

FEBRUARY 23

Jeff Jarrett The Yellow Pony World Equestrian Center Ocala, 1390 NW 80th Ave., Ocala

FEBRUARY 23

Chris Ryals Charlie Horse 2426 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala 7pm

FEBRUARY 24

Houston Keen Homestead Park 1050 NE 6th Blvd., Williston

FEBRUARY 24

Raging Woody Charlie Horse 2426 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala 7pm

FEBRUARY 24

Fareeza Crazy Cucumber Market Street at Heath Brook, 4414 SW College Road, Ocala

6:30pm-9:30pm

FEBRUARY 24

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

FEBRUARY 25

Cali McCord The Yellow Pony World Equestrian Center Ocala, 1390 NW 80th Ave., Ocala

6-9pm

FEBRUARY 25

Jack Kite Charlie Horse 2426 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala

7pm

FEBRUARY 26

John Johnson Crazy Cucumber Market Street at Heath Brook, 4414 SW College Road, Ocala

1pm-4pm

FEBRUARY 26

Houston Keen Charlie Horse 2426 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala

2pm

Ruins at the Roman port of Ostia Antica rival Pompeii’s

By Rick Steves

Sitting on the top row of the ancient arena, I scan the ruins of Ostia, letting my imagination take me back 2,000 years to the days when this was ancient Rome’s seaport, a thriving commercial center of 60,000 people. I marvel also at how few visitors make the 20-mile trip from downtown Rome to what I consider the most underappreciated sight in all of Italy.

Ostia Antica, a 45-minute Metro/commuter train ride away, offers ancient thrills to rival Pompeii (which is four hours south of Rome). Wandering around the ruins today, you’ll see the remains of the docks, warehouses, apartment flats, mansions, shopping arcades, and baths –all giving a peek at Roman lifestyles.

Ostia, at the mouth (ostium) of the Tiber River, was founded around 620 BC; its central attraction was the salt gleaned from nearby salt flats, which served as a precious meat preserver. Later, around 400 BC, Rome conquered Ostia and made it a naval base, complete with a fort. By AD 150, when Rome controlled all the Mediterranean, Ostia served as its busy commercial port.

With the fall of Rome, the port was abandoned. Over time, the harbor silted up. I’d like to take a moment to thank the mud that eventually buried Ostia, protecting it from the ravages of time – and from stone-scavenging medieval peasants.

Ostia’s small museum offers a delightful look at some of the city’s finest statuary – tangled wrestlers, kissing cupids, playful gods. Most of the statues are second- and third-century AD Roman pieces inspired by rare and famous Greek originals. The portrait busts are of real people – the kind you’d sit next to in the baths (or at the famous, many seated public toilets). Roman religion revered the man of the house (and his father and grandfather). As statues of daddy and grandpa were common in the corner of any proper house, many survive today. Surviving frescos, while scant and humble, give a feeling for how living quarters may have been “wallpapered.” Perhaps the museum’s most interesting room features statuary from religions of foreign lands. Being a port town, Ostia accommodated people (and their worship needs) from all over the known world.

These days, you can stroll among the ruins and trace the grid standard for Roman military towns: a rectangular fort with east, west, north, and south gates and two main roads converging on the Forum. Walking along the main drag, Decumanus Maximus, you can

identify buildings from the Republic (centuries before Christ) and the Empire (centuries after Christ) by their level. Over the centuries, Ostia’s ground-level rose, and the road was elevated. Anything you walk down into is BC.

On the main drag you’ll see the vast theater (teatro). One of the oldest brick theaters anywhere, it’s still used for concerts today. The three rows of marble steps near the orchestra used to be for big shots.

Just in front of the theater is the grand Square of the Guilds, the former bustling center of Rome’s import/export industry, with more than 60 offices of ship owners and traders. Along the sidewalk, second-century AD mosaics advertise the services offered by the various shops – a lighthouse symbolizes the port of Ostia and an elephant marks the office of traders from Africa. It’s fun to walk the entire square guessing from the ancient signs what was once for sale behind each storefront.

The Forum Baths, a huge, governmentsubsidized complex, were the city’s social nerve center. Fine marble steps – great for lounging – led to the pools. People used olive oil rather than soap to wash, so the water needed to be periodically skimmed by servants. From the viewpoint overlooking the Baths of Neptune you’ll see a fine mosaic of Neptune riding four horses through roller-coaster waves.

Along Via Casa di Diana is the House of Diana, a great example of insulae (multistoried tenement complexes where the lower middleclass lived) and an inn called the Insula of the Thermopolium. Belly up to this tavern’s bar. You’ll see a small sink, shelves once used to display food and drinks for sale, and scant remains of wall paintings.

A meander down Ostia’s back lanes is a veritable archaeological scavenger hunt. Look for hidden bits of fresco, preserved mosaic flooring, and millstones for grinding grain back when business was booming.

The key to enjoying sights from ancient Rome is to resurrect all that rubble in your mind. A quick trip out to Rome’s ancient port helps do just, that making it more likely that your hours climbing through the wonders of ancient Rome will give you goosebumps rather than heatstroke.

(Rick Steves (www.ricksteves.com) writes European guidebooks, hosts travel shows on public TV and radio, and organizes European tours. This column revisits some of Rick’s favorite places over the past two decades. You can email Rick at rick@ricksteves.com and follow his blog on Facebook.)

ANSWERS FOR PAGE B4

The show still goes on in ancient Ostia’s theater. [Rick Steves]

Redeemer Christian makes history with school’s first district championship in basketball

By Allen Barney allen@ocalagazette.com

The Redeemer Christian Lions (19-8) made history on Feb. 10 by winning their first district championship in school history, with a 68-58 win over the Oak Hall Eagles (17-5).

Redeemer Head coach Dave Miller credited how the team came out ready to play as a huge factor in the win.

“We came out and set the tone in the first half. We pushed the tempo and knocked down some open shots and played with active hands-on defense,” Miller said.

Junior forward Andrew Parker could not miss in the opening minutes as he drained three three-pointers to give Redeemer an early 9-2 lead. Oak Hall’s Andrew Powell knocked down a three from the left corner to get Oak Hall within two.

Andrew Powers joined the party for Redeemer with a three before Parker sank his fourth long-range shot of the opening quarter. Oak Hall battled back with a three as Jackson Beach hit one from the right side.

Redeemer continued their sharpshooting ways as Beau Suarez hit a shot from beyond the arc and Powers beat the buzzer with a 28-foot three-pointer to give Redeemer a 25-14 lead after one quarter of play.

Grant Phillips became the fourth Redeemer player to knock down a threepointer around two minutes into the second quarter. Oak Hall found some rhythm on offense as they scored on back-to-back possessions for the first time before Parker drilled his fifth threepointer of the half.

Beach hit his second three-pointer, but Parker answered with a contested layup to keep Redeemer’s lead at 13. The remainder of the second quarter saw Powers and Suarez score for Redeemer while Harrison Beach and Neil Ruth scored for Oak Hall.

With Redeemer up by 17 at halftime, Oak Hall turned to press defense in the third quarter to get momentum back on their side. Oak Hall started the third quarter on a 5-0 run as Ryan McKinney launched a three-pointer from the right corner to bring the deficit to 12.

Suarez hit his third three-pointer of the night to extend the lead to 16 for Redeemer Christian. Powers added in one more, with about 90 seconds left in the third quarter, before Dylan Provencher made a contested layup for Oak Hall to finish out the period.

Redeemer Christian opened the final stanza with Jonah Harrelson grabbing a rebound and landing an easy left-handed layup to put his team up by 17 with seven minutes left in the game.

Oak Hall went into attack mode on both sides of the ball as Powell answered Harrelson’s layup with a quick three from the left side. After another three-pointer from Suarez gave Redeemer a 17-point

lead with six minutes left to go. Powell followed up with two three-pointers from the top of the key, sandwiched around a three from McKinney. Powell led Oak Hall with 16 points and Jackson Beach finished with 10 points.

A contested layup from Harrison Beach brought Oak Hall back to within eight points, with just under four minutes remaining in the fourth quarter.

Things got tight as Michael Peterson Jr. and Grant Powell each made baskets to bring Redeemer’s lead down to six with 1:30 left to play.

With Oak Hall applying heavy pressure, it was important for Miller to keep his team calm and not let the lead slip away.

“I told them to take care of the basketball and finish this game. I thought our guys did a great job of responding, Jonah (Harrelson) had a couple big buckets at the end that were crucial,” Miller said.

Harrelson notched an easy layup to precede Parker and Phillips making a combined four free throws in the final minute to seal the win.

Parker’s huge first quarter and overall night of 24 points gave Redeemer Christian early momentum they never fully relinquished.

“I was feeling it and my teammates were finding the open looks and I was just knocking it down tonight,” Parker said. His 24 points and six three-pointers were both a game-high.

For Oak Hall, a historic season came to a bittersweet end with the loss. Assistant coach David Stirt spoke with optimism about the never-say-die attitude of the players and how the future of the program looks bright.

“The idea that, with two minutes left in that game and we were only down six points, shows that it was a fantastic comeback effort and our kids did not quit,” Stirt said. “This will go down as one of the best teams in Oak Hall basketball history. This team is the first in the last 50 years to lose less than six games in a season and finished with the third highest win percentage in school history. Next year, we have eight of our 10 players and four of our five starters coming back, so we will get ready for next season,” Stirt said.

This was only the fifth season of existence for Redeemer Christian basketball and now they have a district championship.

“It’s huge, and it’s the culmination of a lot of work. There are guys on this team who have given their heart to this program and school. For them to come back tonight and be a part of this is super special. We wouldn’t be where we are today without them setting the tone for the culture that we want. It’s not just about each individual guy, it’s about coming together as a team,” Miller said.

Along with Parker’s 24 points, Suarez and Powers finished with 13 points each and Harrelson ended with 10 points.

Photos By Bruce Ackerman Ocala Gazette

Redeemer Christian’s Andrew Powers (32) drives to the hoop past Oak Hall’s Gavin Jones (24) as Redeemer Christian defeats Oak Hall 68-58 in the FHSAA Class 2A District 4 Championship at Meadowbrook Academy in Ocala on Friday, Feb. 10, 2023.

Redeemer Christian’s Tuna Hill (24) takes the ball away from Oak Hall’s Jackson Beach (10).

Redeemer Christian’s Andrew Parker (2) drives to the hoop past Oak Hall defenders.

Redeemer Christian’s Jonah Harrelson (21) shoots over Oak Hall’s Gavin Jones (24).

Redeemer Christian players celebrate with the District Championship trophy after defeating Oak Hall.

Are blue light-blocking glasses a must-have?

By Gretchen Kelly, O.D. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research

DEAR MAYO CLINIC: Many of my co-workers are using glasses that block blue light when they are on their computers. I am interested in getting a pair but want to know more about their value and how they can help.

ANSWER: Blue light glasses are gaining in popularity, but it is important to understand what blue light is. Blue light is one of the colors in the visible light spectrum. The others are red, orange, yellow, green, indigo and violet. When combined, they create white light. When the sun is shining, this is natural white light.

Blue light has a shorter wavelength with higher energy: 400–500 nanometers. Blue-light exposure can affect the retina — the layer of cells lining the back wall inside the eye that sense light and send signals to the brain so you can see.

Concerns about blue light

Exposing the retina to shorter light wavelengths is the basis of “blue-light hazard” and contributes to phototoxicity or sensitivity to light. In animal studies, prolonged exposure to natural blue light has been shown to damage the retina.

LED and compact fluorescent lamps also give off blue light. LEDs are used for the backlighting of computer screens, laptops, TVs and smartphones. Fortunately, the level of blue light from these devices is significantly less

than the levels of blue light in natural daylight.

However, at night, blue light exposure can potentially cause sleep issues by shifting your circadian rhythm, which is the body’s internal clock. Research has suggested that excessive exposure to visible blue light also can cause eyestrain. Up to 69% of computer users report eyestrain, also known as computer vision syndrome.

What research has found

Since 2008, research into blue-blocking or filtering products, such as blue-blocking glasses, has increased. These products decrease the transmission of ultraviolet light involving wavelengths between 440 and 500 nanometers. Some digital devices now offer blue lightfiltering settings that reduce the transmission of short wavelengths of light.

Studies have been conducted with adults on the benefits of blue-blocking lenses — whether these lenses alleviated eyestrain and discomfort when using digital devices and if sleep quality improved when the lenses were used in the evening. However, in reviewing the research, no significant improvement in vision performance or sleep quality has been found from using blue-blocking lenses.

Ways to reduce eyestrain

Since the amount of blue light from the devices used at work, school and home is less than that of natural sunlight, and eyestrain hasn’t been found to be related to blue light, what can be done to prevent it?

Prolonged screen time decreases your natural blink rate, which reduces the film of tears covering your eyes, making them dry.

You can prevent this by:

Taking frequent breaks during screen time. Try following the “20-20-20 rule.” Every 20 minutes, look at an object 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.

Using artificial tears to refresh your eyes when they feel dry.

Getting a vision exam to evaluate an uncorrected eyeglasses prescription or refractive error. This helps identify focusing issues and if your eyes are working well together, both of which could cause eyestrain. Rather than investing in blue-blocking glasses, you should consider:

Monitoring the length of screen time.

Reducing the duration of your screen time.

Taking frequent breaks.

If you are still experiencing eyestrain or other eye issues, make an appointment with a professional for a thorough eye examination to ensure your eyes stay healthy and any problems are caught early. — Gretchen Kelly, O.D., Optometry, Mayo Clinic Health System, La Crosse, Wisconsin

(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.)

Feb. 10, 2023. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2023.

Results were compiled by Allen Barney

Vanguard’s goalie Gianna Meccia (1) makes a diving save on a goal attempt from Clay’s Kirra Dodson (17) during a regional playoff soccer match at Booster Stadium in Ocala on Tuesday, Feb. 7, 2023. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2023.