Ocala Gazette | March 24 - March 30, 2023

Former State Rep. Harding pleads guilty to fraud charges

By Jennifer Hunt Murty jennifer@ocalagazette.com

Former State Rep. Joe Harding appeared in federal court on March 21 to formally change his plea from not guilty to guilty on several counts related to fraudulently obtaining a pandemic-era Small Business Administration Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL).

Harding, a rising Republican political star from Ocala who resigned the House seat in December following his indictment, is expected to be sentenced on July 25.

Harding appeared before District Judge Allen C. Winsor at the Northern District Federal Courthouse in Gainesville with only his attorney, Peg O’Connor, by his side as he was questioned by the judge under oath.

Winsor asked Harding about his state of mind and whether anything was impairing his ability to make decisions. He also asked specifically about what his attorney had advised him were the consequences of pleading guilty to felony charges. Those include losing his right to vote, to own a gun, and to hold certain licenses.

Harding stated that he understood the consequences.

The judge then explained to Harding what the burden of proof would be for the government for each of the three counts of wire fraud, money laundering and making false statements. He asked Harding on each count, “If this case went to trial, would the state be able to prove beyond a reasonable doubt your guilt?”

For each count, Harding answered, “Yes.”

Originally, duplicate counts were brought against Harding related to two entities for which he had applied for EIDL loans: The Vak Shack, Inc., an agricultural supply business in Williston, and Harding

See Sentencing, page A4

Gladson talks process for Groveland Four’s exoneration

By Makayla Gray makayla@ocalagaztte.com

Nearly 75 years ago, one of the most infamous miscarriages of justice took place in Central Florida when four Black men were wrongly accused of sexually assaulting a white teenage girl and beating her husband.

Decades later, the record was finally set straight as the men, known as the Groveland Four, were officially pardoned by the State of Florida in 2019. Marion County State Attorney William “Bill” Gladson, whose team uncovered new evidence that led to the criminal case finally being put to rest in 2021, recently spoke about the case in a two-part informational series.

During the sessions on March 12 and 19

at Fort King Presbyterian Church in Ocala, Gladson detailed the saga that has inspired numerous TV shows, countless news stories and the 2013 Pulitzer Prize-winning book, “Devil in the Grove: Thurgood Marshall, the Groveland Boys, and the Dawn of a New America,” by Gilbert King.

Gladson was joined in the presentation by Aaron Newson, a nephew of Ernest Thomas, one of the Groveland Four. Newson presented some of his own research findings, which said will be included in his book, which he expects to have published in November.

The sessions began with an overview of the case and an explanation of Gladson’s involvement.

In July 1949, a 17-year-old white girl in Groveland, Lake County, said she and her husband were headed home from a night of dancing when their car broke down and

they were then attacked by four Black men. Her husband reportedly was beaten, and she was taken away and sexually assaulted at gunpoint by the four men. Reports at the time stated the woman told authorities she was able to escape to a diner off County Road 33 where she met the diner owner’s son, Gladson said. The woman reportedly told the man that she was fine.

Then-Lake County Sheriff Willis McCall quickly accused four young African American men—Charles Greenlee, Walter Irvin, Samuel Shepherd, and Ernest Thomas—with the crimes. The arrests spurred racial outrage, and within days, an angry mob of more than 1,000 men hunted down Thomas and killed him, riddling his body with more than 400 bullets.

The remaining three suspects were put

See Overlooked, page A2

Official results are in for special primary election

By Jennifer Hunt Murty jennifer@ocalagazette.com

Arequired audit of the results of the March 7 special election to fill the vacant Florida House District 24 seat has found no irregularities in the voting. A further analysis of the voter demographics, however, sheds light on how pre-election maneuvering favorably set the table for the eventual winner

while closing the voting booth door to many of the Black voters in the district.

Ryan Chamberlin, a political activist and business owner, defeated Jose Juarez, Charlie Stone, Stephen Pyles and Justin Albright in the Republican primary. Voter turnout was low, with only 11,098 voting out of the 61,421 registered Republican voters in District 24.

The primary was only open to Republicans because of a loophole

that closes primaries upon the filing of a write-in candidate. Robert “Foxy” Fox, a Republican, told the “Gazette” previously he was “duped” by Chamberlin’s campaign manager into filing to run as a write-in candidate. A review of the voter demographics for the district shows the move significantly impacted Black voters. Of the 11,286 Black voters in the district, only 636 are registered as Republicans.

Ultimately, only 38 Black voters participated in the special primary election, according to voter demographic reports provided by the Marion County Supervisor of Elections Office.

Of the 11,109 voters who participated in the special primary election, 10,485 were white. Also, voters under the age of 46 who participated in the election only made up 6% of the total votes.

Had the primary not been

closed, registered Democrat, Independent and nonparty voters would have outnumbered registered Republicans in the district. However, their only choice would have been which Republican to vote for because there was no Democratic candidate in the race.

As for the validation of the primary election, on March 17 the canvassing board consisting of Marion County Judge Robert See Election, page A2

Clockwise from top left: This box held the original evidence of the case. At the top is written “research for disposal” due to the fact that the case had been closed for several years. Attorney William “Bill” Gladson. These pants belonged to Walter Irvin. They were used to show marks of semen as proof of the alleged rape. The pants were not tested for DNA at the time of either of the trials. In the first trial, the pants were briefly mentioned and in the second trial, the prosecutor addressed the stains as “smears” and acknowledged them in the closing statement as well. The pants were later tested by Gladson during his team’s investigations. No semen was found on the pants, 71 years after they were collected. A manufactured shoe print that was created in Deputy James Yates’ backyard. Investigators were able to conclude this through soil samples they collected from Yates’ backyard and in comparison to where the alleged crime happened. [Supplied]

Election results

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

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

Publisher Jennifer Hunt Murty jennifer@ocalagazette.com

Continued from page A1

Landt, Marion County Commissioner Craig Curry and Marion County Supervisor of Elections Wesley Wilcox randomly selected precinct 4170 to be audited.

Starley Ard, public relations coordinator for Wilcox’s office, explained how the board chooses which precinct will be audited.

“We have a ‘bingo’ system that consists of numbered pingpong balls for each participating precinct,’’ Ard said. “Usually, we also draw for a random contest as well; however, we did not this time since the ballot only contained a single contest.”

On March 20, the election team performed an audit of the voting system as prescribed by F.S. 101.591 and Rule 1S-5.026.

“The audit included all ballots cast in precinct 4170 (Vote-by-Mail, Early Voting, and Election Day),’’ Ard said. “A team consisting of two of our full-time staff (unknowing of the vote totals for the selected precinct) sorted the ballots by candidate, then hand-counted ballots from each of the groups and reported their totals, which were then confirmed by the board.’’

The hand count was not an arduous task because only 77 of the 610 Republican voters registered in that precinct cast ballots.

All 132,905 registered voters in District 24,

regardless of party, will have the opportunity to vote in the May 16 election. The only candidate on the ballot will be Chamberlin. There also will be a blank line where voters must first bubble in that they are choosing to vote for a write-in candidate, then write in Fox’s name.

Overlooked documents found

Continued from page A1 on trial and convicted. Shepherd and Irvin received death sentences, while Greenlee was sentenced to life in prison because he was only 16 at the time of the alleged crimes.

The head of the NAACP in Florida at the time, Harry T. Moore, was persistent in pressing the FBI to come to Lake County to investigate this case, Gladson said. The U.S. Supreme Court in 1951 unanimously overturned the convictions of Shepherd and Irvin, who were defended by NAACP attorney Thurgood Marshall, a future U.S. Supreme Court justice.

The court ordered a new trial, but in 1951 McCall shot and killed Shepherd and seriously wounded Irvin as they were being transported for a pretrial hearing. McCall claimed they were trying to escape.

At the second trial, Irvin was again convicted, and he was sentenced to death. His sentence was commuted to life in prison, and he was paroled in 1968. He died the following year. Greenlee also was convicted, and he was paroled in 1962. He died in 2012.

That’s where things stood until many years later.

“The reason that the State Attorney’s Office got involved was back in 2018, the Florida Department Law Enforcement was asked to look at this case by Attorney General Pam Bondi right before she left office,” Gladson said.

The FDLE turned the case over to Gladson’s office in 2021. Just before Gladson was about to issue a final report closing the case for lack of new evidence, an investigator located a trove of overlooked documents in a vault in Lake County.

Gladson explained that there were two trials: one in Tavares and one in Ocala, due to change of venue requests. “That’s relevant because it explains, I think, why some of the evidence was not where people were looking for the evidence for so many years,” he said.

The new evidence was compelling, he noted.

“When I look at this evidence today, it just does not support these allegations at all, not in the slightest bit,” Gladson said.

There was an account of two of the Groveland Four men being together that night. It was thought that Irvin and Shepherd knew only each other and that Greenlee and Thomas only knew one another. Newson shared with the audience that his uncle, Ernest Thomas, actually did know Shepherd.

Irvin and Shepherd had been arrested at Shepherd’s house after deputies found a car parked outside that matched the description provided by the young woman.

In the second part of the series, Gladson disclosed some of the evidence that was uncovered and used to determine that these four men were not guilty. The evidence included Irvin’s pants as well as shoes from one of the men, and a footprint sample from the scene of the crime.

Gladson and an investigator spoke with the grandson of Jesse Hunter, the prosecutor of the second trial. The grandson, Broward Hunter, disclosed that the judge and his grandfather both knew there was no case of rape from when the second trial was commencing.

Gladson said documents from Hunter’s desk revealed that this case had ties to an investigation into an

illegal bolita gambling operation. Newson said Thomas was involved with bolita.

Based on new evidence uncovered in Lake County as well as other research, in October 2021, Gladson filed a “Motion to Dismiss Indictments of Ernest Thomas and Samuel Shepherd, Motion to Set Aside Judgment and Sentence of Charles Greenlee and Walter Irvin, and Motion to Correct Record with Newly Discovered Evidence.”

“These officials, disguised as keepers of the peace and masquerading as ministers of justice, disregarded their oaths, and set in motion a series of events that forever destroyed these men, their families, and a community,” the motion states. “I have not witnessed a more complete breakdown of the criminal justice system, nor do I ever expect I will again.”

Gladson requested the court dismiss the indictments against them, and Circuit Court Judge Heidi Davis granted the motion in Lake County in November 2021.

With the research that he conducted, Newson said he believes the criminalization of the Groveland Four was a racially motivated act orchestrated by McCall.

—Information from The Florida Bar News was used in this report.

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[Courtesy of Wesley Wilcox, Supervisor of Elections]

“When I look at this evidence today, it just does not support these allegations at all, not in the slightest bit.”

William Gladson State Attorney

Photos posted to Wesley Wilcox’s Facebook page

PUBLIC HELP IS NEEDED TO HELP SOLVE A HIT-AND-RUN

Staff report

The Florida Highway Patrol is looking for information about a hit-and-run that occurred at approximately 12:04 a.m. on March 22.

The crash involved a 2014 black Cadillac sedan and a 2022 orange Moped on US Highway 441 near Southeast 73 Street in Ocala. The driver of the black Cadillac fled from the scene on foot.

FHP is seeking information from members of the public who may have come to the scene to render first aid to the victim and might have seen the driver of the Cadillac.

According to a press release from FHP, the driver of the Moped was transported to Ocala Regional Medical Center with serious injuries.

Anyone with information can call the FHP Communication Center in Jacksonville at 1-800-387-1290 or Crime Stoppers at (352) 368-7867, or text *FHP.

According to Florida Uniform Traffic Citation Statistics reports

for Marion County, 225 people were charged with leaving the scene of an accident in 2022; in 2021, there were 201; in 2020, there were 252; and in 2019, there were 255.

WEC founder dies

Developer and trucking magnate

R.L. Roberts passed away at age 77.

By Susan Smiley-Height susan@magnoliamediaco.com

Ralph L. “Larry” Roberts Sr., the founder of R + L Carriers, Inc., a global transportation business, died March 19, at the age of 77, in Ocala, of dementia.

With his wife Mary, Roberts, who was known by many as “Senior,” developed the Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club and World Equestrian Centers in Wilmington, Ohio, and Ocala. Roberts was born Aug. 23, 1945, in Wilmington, Ohio. He and Mary were married on Nov. 2, 1963. He founded R + L Carriers, Inc., a trucking and transportation company, in 1965. According to company literature, he started with one truck that he used for hauling furniture.

“The business grew with the purchase of intrastate and interstate authority from Mayflower Moving and Storage,” notes the R + L Carriers website. In the 1980s, the company expanded to five midwestern and southern states. Its growth continued in the ‘90s with the

acquisitions of other companies. Today, the company operates across America and in Canada, Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic.

In addition to his affinity for the trucking industry, Roberts had a love for horses and for Florida. He and Mary bought 1,300 acres in the area and thus was born the golf and equestrian club on West Highway 27, just outside Ocala. Following the success of the World Equestrian Center (WEC) in Ohio, the Roberts’ opened WEC Ocala in early 2021.

In addition to his wife Mary, Roberts is survived by his daughter Michelle Carpenter of Ocala; son Ralph L. Roberts Jr. and his wife Terri, of Wilmington, Ohio; and son Roby L. Roberts and his wife Jennifer, of Ocala; seven grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

Roberts did not wish to have a memorial or funeral service.

Candace Fitzgerald, WEC Marketing Director, said in email that the family was “grateful for people’s prayers and condolences and asked that anyone who wishes to honor Senior simply do something special for someone they love.”

Black Cadillac sedan was left abandoned at the scene of a crash that occurred on March 22. [Florida Highway Patrol]

Ceremony honors local veterans and iconic WWII heroes

Vets who passed away during the last six months, and

the Four Chaplains, are remembered for their service.

Two Ocala-area veterans at the ceremony, William Ehrhart and Lewis Alston, are recipients of award; Alston has been honored twice.

Following the Four Chaplains program, members of the DAR Ocala Chapter read the names of Marion County veterans who passed away during the previous six months. Elizabeth Coleman, Carolyn Smith, Mary Jo Ames and Carol Bruno read each veteran’s name and branch of service, following by the ringing of a bell by park volunteer David Bice.

After the reading, Marion County Memorial Honor Guard honorary member John Earl played a song on his bagpipes.

Alston, a Marine Corps veteran, Purple Heart recipient and an honor guard member, introduced his fellow members on hand for a gun salute at the ceremony. Alston sounded taps as Chaplain LT. Col. John Meyer, accompanied by his wife, Patsy, offered an invocation to close the ceremony.

Meanwhile, DAR Ocala Chapter Regent Coleman said the Final Salute program, in its second year, provides families of the deceased veterans honored every six months with a nameplate and small American flag.

The Final Salute program was initiated about two years ago by the DAR Ocala Chapter with support from the Friends of Marion County Veterans Park Foundation. Plaques not picked up by families are posted on a Wall of Heroes in the Education Center adjacent to park grounds.

The DAR Ocala Chapter has also recently installed a marker commemorating “Revolutionary War Patriots” with an interactive QR code for visitors in the east end of the park.

By Andy Fillmore Correspondent

Acombined ceremony was held Saturday, March 18, at the Ocala-Marion County Veterans Memorial Park to honor local veterans who died in the last six months and recount the enduring story of the Four Chaplains of World War II.

Jeffrey Askew, director of Marion County Veterans Services, opened the ceremony followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by Floy Leuenberger.

Elizabeth Coleman, regent of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) Ocala Chapter, presented a narrative on the “bravery and sacrifice” of the Four Chaplains aboard the sinking troop ship, S.S. Dorchester, on Feb. 3, 1943. The Dorchester was 150 miles from its destination of Greenland around midnight when a torpedo from a German U-boat struck, setting off an explosion.

“Men were screaming, others crying or frantically trying to get lifeboats off the ship,’’ according to an account on a U.S. Army website. ”Through the

pandemonium, four men spread out among the soldiers, calming the frightened, tending the wounded and guiding the disoriented toward safety. They were four Army chaplains: Lt. George Fox, a Methodist minister; Lt. Alexander Goode, a Jewish Rabbi; Lt. John Washington, a Roman Catholic Priest; and Lt. Clark Poling, a Dutch Reformed minister.”

As the tragedy unfolded on the converted ocean liner, an engineer witnessed the four chaplains giving their own lifejackets to others.

“As the ship went down, survivors in nearby rafts could see the four chaplains, arms linked and braced against the slanting deck. Their voices could also be heard offering prayers and singing hymns,” the website states. Of the 902 people aboard the Dorchester, only 230 survived,

The Four Chaplains were awarded the Purple Heart, Distinguished Service Cross and the unique The Four Chaplains Medal. The legacy of the Four Chaplains lives on with the “Legion of Honor Award” presented by the Chapel of the Four Chaplains in Philadelphia for “service to all people regardless of race or faith.”

Sentencing is pending

Continued from page A1 business in Williston, and Harding Farms, LLC., a 46-acre horse and cattle facility in Williston.

Harding pleaded guilty to the three associated with The Vak Shack, and under the plea agreement, the government is likely to drop the three other counts with the court’s approval.

Winsor explained to Harding the maximum sentence for wire fraud was 20 years and a $250,000 fine; for money laundering 10 years and a $250,000 fine; and for false statements, five years and a $250,000 fine.

However, the judge explained the sentences could be served concurrently and the sentence he would ultimately enter would be based on a federal sentencing scoresheet calculation after he reviewed all the material facts and circumstances surrounding the case and the defendant, prior criminal record, early acceptance of responsibility, and recommendations from the government and the defendant.

Federal sentencing guidelines are long and complicated to navigate. The sentencing scoresheet assists judges in developing a framework for a reasonable sentence.

“The scoring also helps keep sentencing

more consistent whether you were sentenced in Florida or in Missouri,” explained - Gilbert Schaffnit, a criminal defense attorney who has practiced in state and federal courts for 45 years and is the President of the North Central Florida Chapter of the Federal Bar Association.

Schaffnit explained to the Gazette that an officer of the court would be preparing a report proposing a certain sentence range to the judge, and then the lawyers would argue or agree to the calculation before the judge sentences.

“This is unlike what you see in state criminal court, where a plea and sentencing can happen all in one hearing. In federal court no one can promise what the sentence will be when you enter a plea,” explained Schaffnit.

Schaffnit pointed to 18 U.S. Code § 3553 outlining what factors a judge considers when imposing a sentence. Those include the nature and circumstances of the offense, the seriousness of the offense, adequate deterrence to criminal conduct, and protecting the public from further crimes.

Schaffnit says the court is not bound by that sentencing table, and in the case of the crimes committed by Harding- there is no mandatory sentence.

David and Martha Kramer, residents of Del Webb Spruce Creek and recently from Fort Lauderdale, were visiting the park on Saturday.

“This is a beautiful park and a wonderful tribute to the men and women who served,” David Kramer said.

Asked about the likelihood of Harding being sentenced to 35 years, Schaffnit dismissed the idea. “Highly unlikely. It would be extreme for a defendant with no criminal history to be sentenced to the maximum sentence. The sentence will be significantly less. And yet because of the reporting on the maximum sentences, the public may wrongly conclude there was some type of break- when there was none.”

After the hearing, Harding’s lawyer told reporters gathered outside the courtroom to reserve judgment until they heard the facts at the sentencing hearing.

Harding, in a statement following the hearing, wrote, “I deeply regret my actions that led to these charges. I let down my family, my constituents, and those who have supported me over the years. I have only myself to blame.”

“All I can do now is focus on the future and making this wrong right. This is why in the spring of 2021, I paid the SBA loan in full and now all I can do moving forward is continue to tell the truth, apologize to all of those I have hurt and let down, and then show the world that with God all things are possible.”

Even though Harding paid back the loans, David Byron, attorney for the government, was hesitant to rule

forfeiture out altogether without a further investigation.

Which means a lot still hangs in the balance for Harding.

Harding was reelected without opposition to his second term in 2020. District 24 encompasses the central southwest quadrant of Marion County. A special election is set for May 16 to fill the vacancy.

The new DAR Memorial at the Ocala-Marion County Veterans Memorial Park on Saturday, March 18, 2023. [Andy Fillmore]

Plate for the new “Final Salute” program. [Andy Fillmore]

Lewis Alston plays taps. [Andy Fillmore]

Jeffrey Askew poses with members of DAR Ocala Chapter at the Ocala-Marion County Veterans Memorial Park. [Andy Fillmore]

Another attempt to drive business downtown

Two public meetings will be held March 30 about a proposed expansion of the downtown golf cart map.

By Julie Garisto julie@magnoliamediaco.com

According to some city officials and downtown merchants, golf cart drivers could be business drivers.

The Ocala City Council voted down extending the golf cart-approved zone into downtown on Nov. 1, 2022, despite recommendations from the city’s planning department and Jessica Fieldhouse, executive director of Ocala Main Street, a downtown merchants and businesses organization.

At that meeting, Fieldhouse reported to the council that 80% of business owners surveyed were in favor of the proposal. She cited a national study that said those walking, riding bicycles or traveling in golf carts typically spend 40% more than people in vehicles. Mayor Kent Guinn requested more specific information on Fieldhouse’s findings.

Council President James Hilty (then councilmember Hilty) called the revised map “the dumbest idea,” adding that it would be “a disaster” if approved. Other councilmembers had mixed feelings and brought up traffic and parking concerns and quickly shut down the proposal.

Tye Chighizola, the city’s director of planning and development, proposed the extension at the meeting and said he had researched safety issues and public concerns for the better part of 2022. A few months earlier, last August, two downtown community feedback sessions familiarized the public with city officials’ plans as well as their extensive research.

Giving it another try, Chighizola will be back at the City Council podium sometime in the near future to present more data on why golf carts should be allowed downtown.

His proposed legislation, city Ordinance 2023-7, states that the proposed map changes will allow golf

carts in the downtown south of State Road 40, east of South Pine Avenue, and north of the S-curve.

“The changes will allow golf carts from the existing southeast neighborhoods to cross SE Watula Avenue into the downtown area,” Chighizola states in the proposed ordinance. “The changes do not include crossing state roads or special parking requirements for the golf carts.”

Before taking his proposed ordinance to the City Council, Chighizola’s office wants to get community input again.

The city’s planning department will host two public meetings about the proposed expansion of the downtown golf cart map at noon and 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 30, at the Florida Institute for Human & Machine Cognition (IHMC), 15 SE Osceola Ave. Both sessions will present the same information.

Staff will be available to answer questions regarding the proposed map and other ordinance concerns. Downtown business owners, current golf cart permit holders and those potentially impacted by the change are encouraged to attend.

The currently approved area for golf carts is between Southeast 17th Street to the south, East Fort King Street to the north, Northeast 25th Avenue to the east and Third Avenue to the west.

On March 11, a golf cart driver ventured beyond those parameters and endured injuries in a rollover accident off Southwest 10th Street. Ocala Fire Rescue and the Ocala Police Department were called to the scene. Information about any possible charges and the driver’s condition were not available at press time.

A speed limit sign of 45 is posted near the embankment where the golf cart rolled over. No data is available on incidents of crashes in Florida downtown districts but, according to the Florida Department of Transportation,

DEADLINE NEARS FOR MARION COUNTY COMMUNITY SERVICES FUNDING APPLICATIONS

Marion County Community Services anticipates having FY 2023-2024 funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the Florida Housing Finance Corporation.

According to the press release, this funding “will be allocated to projects that are consistent with county identified goals (i.e., Affordable Housing, Community Development and Homelessness) and the priority needs in the 5 Year 2019-2024 Consolidated Plan, Fiscal Year 2023-2024 Action Plan, Continuum of Care Plan and 2022-2025 Local Housing Assistance Plan (LHAP), that include, but are not limited to:

•Affordable Housing (e.g., new housing development, acquisition of land, rental assistance); and

•Reducing Homelessness (e.g., permanent supportive housing, wraparound services, rapid rehousing and homeless prevention).”

Projects must meet all Federal grant requirements, state requirements and the county’s objectives of benefiting low to moderate-income persons in accordance with the Comprehensive Plan.

Proposals may be submitted through March 27 by 11:59 p.m. Learn more or submit an application via ZoomGrants at: bit.ly/3JZQVV8

PUBLIC MAY VIEW POTENTIAL NEW TEXTBOOKS AND OFFER FEEDBACK

With Marion County Public Schools (MCPS) adopting new textbooks for two mathematics courses (seventh grade Acceleration and high school college Algebra) and Social Studies (grades 6-12), public input can be offered during an open review night on March 30.

Members of the public can review potential textbooks and materials being considered by the district adoption review committees for next school year during the 6-8 p.m. session in Building 2 of the Robert “Mack” Dunwoody Educational Complex at the District Office/MTI campus at 1614 E. Fort King St., Ocala.

The process already involves parents, teachers and community members reviewing instructional materials, according to the MCPS news release.

Course-specific committees can involve up to 15 voting members and one nonvoting chair including the content area program specialist, up to eight teachers, two parents and five community members appointed by the Marion County School Board.

Following the public viewing, review committee members will consider public input at a meeting from 6 to 8 p.m. April 3 at West Port High School, at 3733 SW 80 Ave., Ocala.

Committee members will also vote to recommend titles to Superintendent Diane Gullett, who then advances recommendations to the Marion County School Board.

For more information, contact the Instructional Materials Department of Marion County Public Schools at (352)236-0525.

most golf cart accident injuries occur during rollovers when drivers and passengers don’t wear seatbelts.

Tampa approved allowing golf carts downtown last summer. Lakeland has eight-passenger golf carts launched as a one-year pilot program last November. According to the “Lakeland Ledger,” it was aimed at attracting new riders to public transit by expanding the definition of public transportation beyond large buses crisscrossing the city.

According to the city Ordinance 20203, drivers operating golf carts or mini trucks can only operate vehicles that do not exceed 20 mph on the city’s streets, and Florida Statutes, section 320.01(22), allow golf carts to be operated on roadways that are designated for golf carts with a posted speed limit of 30 mph or less.

Drivers operating a golf cart or lowspeed vehicle in Ocala are required to register for a one-time permit at a cost of $30. The registration fee will be used to provide law enforcement with ownership

information in the event of an accident or theft. A decal will be assigned to the vehicle and must be displayed on the left side of the vehicle.

The city ordinance that passed three years ago states that an unlicensed driver must be 18 years of age or older or possess a valid state-issued learner’s driver’s license. When operating a golf cart, the unlicensed driver must be accompanied at all times by another person who holds a valid state-issued driver’s license. That companion must be at least 21 years old and occupy the closest seat to the right of the unlicensed driver of the golf cart.

The public input meetings take place at noon and 5:30 p.m. Thursday, March 30, at IHMC Ocala. For more information, call the City of Ocala Growth Management office at (352)629-8404, email building@ocalafl.org or visit ocalafl.org/GolfCart.

File photo: Vivian Price drives her golf cart on Southeast 24th Terrace in Ocala on Tuesday, August 9, 2022. [Bruce Ackerman/ Ocala Gazette] 2022.

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR

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

IN RE: ESTATE OF MARILYN ROSE SMITH, Deceased.

FILE NO.: 2023-CP-586

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of MARILYN R. SMITH , deceased, whose date of death was January 11, 2023; is pending in the Circuit Court of Marion County, Florida, Probate Division; File Number 2023-CP-586; the address of which is 110 N.W. 1st Avenue, Ocala, Florida 34475. An Order of Summary Administration was entered on March 10, 2023, and the name and address of the person assigned control of the asset is JOSEPH P. SMITH, JR., 1700 N.W.

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTHJUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA Case No: 2023-366-CP IN RE: THE ESTATE OF BETTY A. O’NEILL, Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS

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

IN RE:

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR

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 FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 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 March 24, 2023.

Personal Representative: Michael Steven Parker 6213 NE 26th Avenue Ocala, FL 34479

Attorney for Personal Representative: Lauren E. Merriam, III Florida Bar No. 320099 Blanchard, Merriam, Adel, Kirkland & Green, P.A. lmerriam@bmaklaw.com msandstrom@bmaklaw.com Post Office Box 1869 Ocala, Florida 34478 Telephone: (352) 732-7218

LANGLEY HEALTH SERVICES RECEIVES PARTNERSHIP AWARD

The Marion County Cancer Alliance and HUGs Charities, Inc. recently awarded $5,000 to Langley Health Services to focus on improvements for breast cancer screening in the local Hispanic female population.

The administration of the estate of BETTY A.O’NEILL, deceased, whose date of death was January 1, 2023, is pending in the Circuit Court for Marion County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 110 Northwest First Avenue, Ocala, Florida 34475. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent, and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF THREE (3)MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR THIRTY (30) 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 THREE (3) MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS AND DEMANDS 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 the first publication of this Notice is March 17, 2023. Attorney for Personal Representative JANET W. BEHNKE, P. Florida Bar No. 135969 P.O. Box 1237 Ocala, FL 34478-1237 500 NE 8th Avenue Ocala, FL 34470 Phone: (352) 732-6464 Facsimile: (352) 867-5111 janet@behnkelaw.net tammy@behnkelaw.net March 17, 24, 2023

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

OF

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 15, 2023

The date of first publication of this Notice is March 17, 2023. Attorney for Personal Representative: JOSHUA L. MOSES

SENATE TARGETS ‘COUNTRIES OF CONCERN’ IN LAND SALES

By Florida News Service

Aproposal that would prohibit the sale of agricultural land and property within 20 miles of military bases to interests tied to the Chinese government or other nations on a list of “countries of concern” is headed to the Senate floor.

CODE WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. THE DATE OF FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE IS: March 24, 2023

Personal Representative:

S/David S. Romanik___ David S. Romanik Attorney for Personal Representative:

S/David S. Romanik__ David S. Romanik, Esq. P.O. Box 993 Ocala, Fl 34478 954-610-4441 davidromanik@mac.com

According to the news release from Langley Health Services, “the funding will focus on culturally appropriate education for patients/ community, increased trainings for providers and support staff, and on providing diagnostic mammograms to patients who have a positive screening mammogram.”

Langley Health Services is located at 7205 SE Maricamp Road, Ocala. Those who wish to learn if they qualify to receive services through this funding can call (352) 680-7000.

The Senate Rules Committee on Wednesday backed the proposal (SB 264), which also would affect government contracts that involve access to personal information. It would prevent agencies from entering such contracts with entities tied to countries of concern.

The proposal also would require health-care providers to ensure electronic technology keeps patient information within the continental U.S. Bill sponsor Jay Collins, R-Tampa, said

the proposal does “a very good job of protecting our strategic level interests.” He added, “Frankly, there are people who just don’t believe the American dream, the American way of life.”

While China is the primary focus of Collins’ proposal, other countries of concern are Russia, Iran, North Korea, Cuba, Venezuela and Syria.

The bill would take effect July 1. People or entities that owned agricultural land before then would not have to give up the property, but they would be prevented from expanding their acreage. Information is not readily available about how much agricultural land in Florida is owned by entities tied to China. A similar House bill (HB 1355) will go before the House Judiciary Committee on Thursday.

Noted teacher dies in Ocala

DESANTIS TRAVEL RECORDS COULD BE SHIELDED

Travel records involving Gov. Ron DeSantis and his family would be shielded from public disclosure under a proposal moving forward in the Senate and the House. The Senate Governmental Oversight and Accountability Committee on Wednesday approved a bill (SB 1616) that would create a publicrecords exemption for records held by law-enforcement agencies related to “transportation and protective services” provided to the governor, the governor’s immediate family, visiting governors and “other persons as requested by certain state officers.”

Senate bill sponsor Jonathan Martin, R-Fort Myers, said disclosure of information about the governor’s travel could expose security operations and logics undertaken by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, which is charged with the governor’s safety.

“My understanding is there has been an increase in public-records requests regarding our governor and his travel simply because of the notoriety of his position in the past few years,” Martin said.

The House Criminal Justice Subcommittee on Tuesday approved the House version of the bill (HB 1495).

The Florida Department of Law Enforcement issues an annual report outlining costs of protecting the governor, his family, the governor’s mansion and visiting dignitaries. The 2022 report showed taxpayers spent $6.097 million on such security in the 2021-2022 fiscal year, up 25 percent from the previous year. While most of the expenses involved protecting DeSantis, the report noted protective services also were provided to the governors of 27 states, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

By Susan Smiley-Height susan@magnoliamediaco.com

It only takes a few minutes of watching the video from the 33rd Annual Golden Apple Gala to realize that John Gibb, who was one of this year’s five honored educators, was adored by his students.

The Golden Apple program is organized by the Public Education Foundation of Marion County, in concert with Marion County Public Schools. In the video from the Feb. 4 gala, some of Gibbs’ students speak highly of him and one girl alludes to his popularity on social media, including a dance scene on TikTok, and says “He actually has a big following.”

Gibb, a teacher at Lake Weir High School, died March 21, after experiencing what authorities said appeared to be a medical episode. He was 31.

Law enforcement officials said Gibb was driving on Maricamp Road on Tuesday morning when his vehicle crossed the median and stuck objects including a sign and a fence, near the school. He was taken to a hospital, where he was pronounced deceased.

Grief counselors were present at the school, where Gibb taught Pre IB English and where he was named a rookie teacher of the year in 2018 before being named a Golden Apple Teacher for 2023 and a finalist for Teacher of the Year.

In his speech from the gala, Gibb opens by telling the audience that before he became a teacher, he was a journalist.

His teacher page on the MCPS website states that he is from Marlington, West Virginia, and earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism from Marshall University in West Virginia and a master’s in mass

communications from the University of Southern Mississippi. He worked in radio production and newspaper reporting, and even interned with Sydney Educational Radio in Australia. He moved to Florida in 2015 to begin his career in education.

He said in the video, which can be seen at https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=Js0TIUFhZmY, that he was inspired by the late Anthony Bourdain to pursue journalism.

“His style of storytelling was brilliant. More importantly, Bourdain taught me a lot about the power of human connection, the beauty of humanity, and the importance of amplifying marginalized voices. In my short stint as a journalist, I interviewed many politicians, celebrities, and hometown heroes. It was certainly a rewarding time, but something was missing. I remember interviewing a veteran who had served six tours in Iraq and who suffers with PTSD. He looked at me and said, ‘Whatever you do in life, make sure it is meaningful, and purposeful.’ I have always remembered that,” he read from his notes.

He said that working as a substitute teacher put him on a path to become a classroom teacher.

“Ultimately, it was one of my best decisions. In my classroom, I—like Bourdain—always look for ways to amplify students’ voices,” he said. “By promoting student voice in the classroom, engagement increases, a community of collaboration is fostered, and student achievement improves.”

He said that teaching at Lake Weir High School “has been the greatest joy in my life.”

Details about any funeral or memorial arrangements were not available at press time.

SENATE PANEL SUPPORTS DRAG SHOW CRACKDOWN

Amid a crackdown by Gov. Ron DeSantis’ administration on drag-show performances, a Senate panel on Tuesday gave initial approval to a bill that would allow the state to revoke licenses of businesses that admit children to “adult live” performances.

The Republican-dominated Judiciary Committee voted 8-3 to advance the proposal (SB 1438).

Under the measure, the state Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco, which is part of the Department of Business and Professional Regulation, would be able to revoke licenses of lodging or food-service establishments for violations.

The division also could issue fines of $5,000 for a first violation and $10,000 fines for subsequent violations. While the measure does not specifically use the term “drag,” opponents pointed to targeting drag shows. “In broad, general terms, an adult live performance is a presentation that depicts or simulates nudity, sexual conduct, or specific sexual activities,” a Senate staff analysis of the bill said.

The measure comes as state officials have targeted venues

that hosted drag shows with children in attendance.

For example, the Department of Business and Professional Regulation recently sought to revoke the liquor license of an Orlando theater over a drag show event in December.

“I speak with parents nearly everyday who share their concerns about the increasing prevalence of content across all forms of media that is inappropriate for young children. As a dad of young children, I share these concerns,” said Senate Judiciary Chairman Clay Yarborough, a Jacksonville Republican who is sponsoring the bill. Opponents argued, in part, that the bill is overly broad.

“Drag has always been a part of our society as an art form that can educate, empower and entertain. This manufactured moral panic about drag shows is about policing culture,” said Rin Alajaji, public policy associate for the LGBTQ-advocacy organization Equality Florida.

Rep. Randy Fine, R-Brevard County, has filed an identical House bill (HB 1423).

Lake Weir High educator apparently had a medical issue that contributed to a vehicle crash.

John Gibb [Courtesy Marion County Public Schools]

State pushes back in fight over protest law

By Jim Saunders Florida News Service

Attorneys for Gov. Ron DeSantis told the Florida Supreme Court late Monday that a controversial 2021 law about protests that turn violent would not apply to peaceful demonstrators, disputing that the law is unconstitutional.

A 25-page brief was the latest move in a long-running battle about a law that DeSantis championed after nationwide protests following the 2020 death of George Floyd, a Black man who was killed by a Minneapolis police officer. Dubbed the “Combating Public Disorder” law, the measure included a series of steps aimed at cracking down on people who participate in riots or a “violent public disturbance.”

Chief U.S. District Judge Mark Walker in 2021 issued a preliminary injunction against the law, describing it as unconstitutionally “vague and overbroad.” The state appealed, but the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in January requested help from the Florida Supreme Court with what it called a “novel” issue— how to determine the meaning of the word “riot” in the law.

In Monday’s brief, attorneys for DeSantis argued that, “to violate the statute, a defendant must be active in violence.”

“Nonviolent protest activity will never violate the statute, regardless of

the behavior of others present,” said the brief, filed by lawyers in Attorney General Ashley Moody’s office and DeSantis’ office. “It is also clear that a person does not violate the statute unless he acts with common intent to assist in violence.”

Groups such as the Dream Defenders and the Florida State Conference of the NAACP challenged the law,, arguing that it would have a chilling effect on First Amendment rights. Among their arguments has been that the law could lead to peaceful demonstrators facing charges when protests turn violent.

Walker issued a 90-page ruling that pointed to vagueness in the measure.

“Though plaintiffs claim that they and their members fear that it (the law) will be used against them based on the color of their skin or the messages that they express, its vagueness permits those in power to weaponize its enforcement against any group who wishes to express any message that the government disapproves of,” Walker wrote. “Thus, while there may be some Floridians who welcome the chilling effect that this law has on the plaintiffs in this case, depending on who is in power, next time it could be their ox being gored.”

A panel of the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals heard arguments in March 2022 in the state’s appeal. But the Atlanta-based court said in January that it was deferring a ruling on the preliminary injunction until

State Board pushes for teacher pay hikes

By Ryan Dailey Florida News Service

Members of the State Board of Education are considering how to put “pressure” on local teachers-union leaders and school-board members amid delays in planned salary increases for teachers in some districts.

The state board Wednesday discussed efforts to distribute money approved by the Legislature, including $800 million earmarked in this year’s state budget for raising teacher salaries. That money is part of an effort to raise minimum teacher pay to $47,500.

Adam Miller, a senior chancellor with the state Department of Education, said the department has “fully approved” salary-distribution plans for 69 school districts, which include county districts and other types of districts. But he pointed to a handful of districts that are either at impasse in negotiations with unions or are in negotiations.

The Hillsborough, St. Johns and Seminole county districts are at impasse, Miller said Meanwhile, the Gadsden County district is negotiating with the teachers’ union. Gadsden Superintendent of Schools Elijah Key, Jr., said those negotiations are “being held up” by union leaders.

State board member Ryan Petty floated the idea of bringing local union officials before the board because “at a minimum, we’d be hearing both sides of the story.”

“They’re putting the raises that these teachers deserve at risk. So, I’d like to see us bring the leaders of these unions forward. If they believe their case, they can certainly try to make that in a public

forum, and certainly in front of this board,” Petty said.

Andrew Spar, president of the Florida Education Association union, pointed to a complicated process of raising teacher pay.

“We urge the State Board of Education to stand with educators as we call on the Legislature to simplify the process of getting teachers their raises,” Spar said in a statement to The News Service of Florida. “Lawmakers could eliminate some of the 20 laws that currently dictate how teachers are paid, and they can allocate sufficient funds to ensure that educators of all levels of experience are paid fairly.”

Spar added that teachers in Florida are “on average some of the lowest paid in the nation.”

“Teachers with years in the classroom face an ‘experience penalty’ that can leave them making about the same as new teachers,” Spar said.

Lawmakers this year are likely to continue allocating money to raise teacher pay. DeSantis has recommended that lawmakers set aside $1 billion in next fiscal year’s budget to bolster educators’ salaries.

State board member Esther Byrd suggested Wednesday that the board turn its focus to districts where salary money hasn’t been distributed. Byrd said that “too often” local school-board members

“are just way too cozy with the unions.”

“We’re going to have to put some pressure back on the people who answer to, ‘we the people,’ to ‘we the parents’ in this situation,” Byrd said. “And that’s the school board members.”

The state board is slated to meet again April 19 in the Capitol.

after the Florida Supreme Court could weigh in on the definition of riot.

While such moves are unusual, the federal appeals court at times sends cases to the Florida Supreme Court to help sort out the wording of state laws—a move known as certifying a question

In passing the 2021 measure, the Legislature changed a law that barred riots. The revamped law says that a “person commits a riot if he or she willfully participates in a violent public disturbance involving an assembly of three or more persons, acting with a common intent to assist each other in violent and disorderly conduct, resulting in injury to another person, damage to property or imminent danger of injury to another person or damage to property.”

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

“According to the plaintiffs, every

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

But in the brief Monday, attorneys for DeSantis disputed such arguments.

“Other conduct may well fall within the ambit of the statute—for example, supplying weapons at the site of a disorderly protest. But protesting wholly nonviolently does not violate the statute simply because the peaceful protester may know that others at the same protest have turned to violence,” the brief said.

Groups challenging the law have not filed their initial briefs at the Supreme Court.

Year-round schools get look in Florida House

By Ryan Dailey Florida News Service

AHouse panel on Tuesday supported launching a pilot program of year-round schools, with the plan’s sponsor suggesting it could help students recover from learning losses during the COVID-19 pandemic. State law requires school boards to operate public schools for 180 days a year or the hourly equivalent, but schools are able to operate on year-round schedules, a House staff analysis said. The House Choice & Innovation Subcommittee unanimously approved a bill (HB 891) that would set up a pilot program for four years, with a goal of studying “benefits” of a yearlong school schedule.

“The purpose of the program is for the Department of Education to assist school districts in establishing a year-round school program within at least one elementary school in the district and study the issues, benefits, and schedule options for instituting year-round school programs for all students,” an introductory part of the bill said.

Districts could apply to participate in the program. The state education commissioner would select five districts to participate, and to “the extent possible,” those districts would “represent a variety of demographics, including, but not limited to, an urban, suburban, and rural school district.”

Bill sponsor Patricia Williams, D-Pompano Beach, said benefits of a year-round schedule include the

potential to help students rebound from education disruptions suffered during the coronavirus pandemic.

“Number one, this bill could help every child that participates. Number two, we have lost two years due to COVID for education. Number three, crime increases during the time our children are out of school in the juvenile-kids age range,” Williams told the House panel.

Districts that apply would have to provide information about the numbers of students enrolled in elementary schools that would participate, the academic performances and rates of absenteeism of those students and “commitment of such school’s or schools’ instructional personnel and students to the yearround school program.”

Districts seeking to participate also would have to provide an “explanation of how the implementation of the year-round school program will benefit the students.”

After the four-year pilot ends, the education commissioner would provide a report to the governor, Senate president and House speaker that would include a recommendation on the “adoption of year-round school programs for all students.”

Rep. Kevin Chambliss, D-Homestead, drew laughs Tuesday as he expressed support for the measure.

“I just wanted to volunteer my kids to be guinea pigs and make sure that they can participate in this,” Chambliss joked.

Sen. Linda Stewart, D-Orlando, has filed a similar bill (SB 1564), which has not been heard in Senate committees.

“The plaintiffs express concern that protesters could be charged with rioting if they remained on the scene after violence erupted and continued to protest, assisted those who were injured or filmed the events.”

11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals

“Teachers with years in the classroom face an ‘experience penalty’ that can leave them making about the same as new teachers.”

Lawmakers Again Eye Alimony Overhaul

By Dara Kam Florida News Service

After three vetoes of similar measures, a proposal to revamp state alimony laws—one of the most emotionally charged issues tackled by Florida lawmakers over the past decade—is back on track in this year’s legislative session.

Supporters of changing the laws and The Florida Bar’s Family Law Section, who’ve fiercely clashed over the issue in the past, say they’ve reached an accord on the latest version.

But left out of the mix are the “First Wives,” a group of mostly older women who have traveled to the state Capitol year after year to plead with Republican leaders to leave existing alimony agreements off the chopping block.

As in previous versions of the bill, the main source of contention this year is a proposal that would do away with what is known as “permanent” alimony. The measure would set up a process for exspouses who make alimony payments to seek modifications to alimony agreements when they want to retire.

Supporters of this year’s legislation (SB 1416 and HB 1409) say it would codify into law a court decision in a 1992 divorce case that judges use as a guidepost when making decisions about retirement.

The bills would allow judges to reduce or terminate alimony, support or maintenance payments after considering a number of factors, such as “the age and health” of the person who makes payments; the customary retirement age of that person’s occupation; “the economic impact” a reduction in alimony would have on the recipient of the payments; and the “motivation for retirement and likelihood of returning to work” for the person making the payments.

Philip Wartenberg, a family-law magistrate in Hillsborough County who is chairman of The Florida Bar’s Family

Law Section, said that, unlike a similar bill vetoed by Gov. Ron DeSantis last year, the proposal would not require judges to modify alimony payments when someone retires.

“It’s not a ‘shall,’ so it’s not an automatic right to retirement, which is what we opposed in last year’s bill, which we felt was truly one-sided in favor of payors,” Wartenberg told The News Service of Florida in a phone interview. “This is a ‘may.’ It’s very clear.”

But Robert Doyel, a former family-law judge who is retired, disagreed.

“The modification part of the bill doesn’t say anything about what it applies to, therefore it applies to every situation, every order, previously entered. So it is absolutely retroactive,” Doyel, a former law professor, told the News Service. “They’re conning you by saying it’s not retroactive.”

Supporters of changes have spent 10 years trying to overhaul the laws, which haven’t been updated in decades. Many of the advocates are wealthy professionals who maintain that lifelong alimony obligations have forced them to continue working long past the time when they wanted to retire.

Michael Buhler, chairman of the Florida Family Fairness committee, said in a statement that his group supports the deal brokered with the Family Law Section.

“Florida Family Fairness is pleased that we were able to come to an agreement with the Family Law Section of The Florida Bar to end permanent alimony and to create a statutory right to retire for alimony payors. Anything that adds clarity to this difficult process and ends permanent alimony is a win for Floridians,” Buhler said.

DeSantis’ veto last year marked the third time that bills have made it through the Republican-controlled Legislature only to have them nixed. Former Gov. Rick Scott twice vetoed such legislation, with a standoff over the issue leading to a nearfracas outside Scott’s office in 2016.

IHMC Lecture Series

Powered by:

Morgan L. Cable

THE TALK: Exploring Ocean Worlds

www.ihmc.com

15 S.E. Osceola Avenue Downtown Ocala

Co-hosted by:

April 20, 2023

Reception:

Begins at 5:30 p.m.

Talk:

Begins at 6:00 p.m.

Seating is limited

RSVP to ihmc-20230223.eventbrite.com or call 352-387-3050

Season Sponsors:

Our solar system is host to multiple ocean worlds - planets and moons that contain oceans of liquid, usually water, either on their surfaces or underneath icy crusts. These worlds are prime targets of exploration due to NASA’s quest to ‘follow the water’ and may contain all three ingredients for life as we know it - water, chemistry, and energy. Could life exist in the oceans of Enceladus or Europa? Could even stranger life have emerged in the liquid methane lakes of Titan? Dr. Cable will cover our current state of knowledge of these ocean worlds, and discuss some current missions and future mission concepts to explore their plumes, surfaces, and ocean depths.

Morgan L. Cable is the Co-Deputy PI of the Planetary Instrument for X-Ray Lithochemistry (PIXL) Instrument aboard the Mars 2020 (Perseverance) rover and the Science Lead for the Exobiology Extant Life Surveyor (EELS) Project. She has worked on the Cassini Mission, is a Co-Investigator of the Dragonfly mission to Titan, and is serving multiple roles on the Europa Clipper mission. Currently Dr. Cable performs laboratory experiments to study the unique organic chemistry of Titan. She and colleagues were the first to discover minerals made exclusively of organics that may exist on Titan’s surface. Morgan also conducts fieldwork in extreme environments on Earth, searching for life in places such as the Atacama Desert, ice fields at the summit of Mt. Kilimanjaro, nutrient-limited lakes at the base of Wind Cave (the densest cave system in the world) in South Dakota, fumarole-generated ice caves of the Mount Meager stratovolcano in Canada, and lava fields of Iceland.

Lecture Sponsors:

In his 2022 veto message, DeSantis pointed to concerns about the bill (SB 1796) allowing ex-spouses to have existing alimony agreements amended.

“If CS/CS/SB 1796 were to become law and be given retroactive effect as the Legislature intends, it would unconstitutionally impair vested rights under certain preexisting marital settlement agreements,” the governor wrote.

Jan Killilea, who founded the “First Wives Advocacy Group” Facebook group a decade ago, said she “unleashed an angry mob” when she began speaking out against a proposal aimed at retroactively eliminating permanent alimony in 2013.

Killilea said she opposes the current bill, in part, because it does not include enforcement provisions requiring exspouses to fulfill alimony obligations.

Killilea said her ex-husband owes hundreds of thousands of dollars in alimony payments but the courts haven’t forced him to pay the money. She predicted the bill would have dire consequences for older women whose sole source of income is alimony.

“It’s really sad that we’re the ones that this bill will affect, but we have no voice,” she said.

The bill, slated to be considered Thursday by the Senate Fiscal Policy Committee, has created a panic for the First Wives group women, who’ve banded together on Facebook and Twitter.

“It’s a mess. It’s an absolute mess,” said Camille Fiveash, a 62-year-old Milton woman who was married for 30 years and whose permanent alimony payments are her main source of income.

Fiveash is among women who contend that permanent alimony is their only armor against destitution and homelessness. Most of the alimony recipients didn’t work outside the home while raising children and supporting their former husbands as the men climbed the career ladder.

Many of the women said they agreed

to give up assets such as family homes or retirement investments in exchange for permanent alimony, which they believed would last their lifetime.

“I’m going to be destitute and dependent on the state and I’m going to be collecting food stamps and everything else,” Fiveash said.

Along with doing away with permanent alimony, this year’s proposal would set a five-year limit on rehabilitative alimony. Under the plan, people married for less than three years would not be eligible for alimony payments, and those who have been married 20 years or longer would be eligible to receive payments for up to 75 percent of the term of the marriage.

The identical House and Senate bills also would allow alimony payors to seek modifications if “a supportive relationship exists or has existed” involving their exspouses in the previous year. Critics such as Doyel argue the provision is vague and could apply to temporary roommates who help alimony recipients cover living expenses for a short period of time.

This year’s version of the bill does not include a controversial provision that would have required judges to begin with a “presumption” that children should split their time equally between parents. Scott largely pinned his 2016 veto of an alimony bill on a similar child-sharing provision. The Family Law Section fiercely opposed the inclusion of the child-sharing provision in previous iterations of the alimonyreform proposals.

Wartenberg said he found the exspouses’ objections to the current proposal perplexing.

“I cannot really explain it other than fear of what has come before and perhaps a concern that this is doing the same thing that we believe prior bills were trying to do. We certainly don’t see it that way. In fact, we were the ones that were pushing for this language, last year, to be included,” he said. “We’re pleased with the product, as it is currently written.”

A 5,000-mile seaweed belt is headed toward Florida

By Suman Naishadham Associated Press

A5,000-mile seaweed belt lurking in the Atlantic Ocean is expected in the next few months to wash onto beaches in the Caribbean Sea, South Florida, and the Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico.

The Great Atlantic Sargassum Belt—as the biomass stretching from West Africa to the Gulf of Mexico is called—contains scattered patches of seaweed on the open sea, rather than one continuous blob of sargassum. It’s not a new occurrence, but satellite images captured in February showed an earlier start than usual for such a large accumulation in the open ocean.

Once it washes ashore, sargassum is a nuisance—a thick, brown algae that carpets beaches, releasing a pungent smell as it decays and entangling humans and animals who step into it. For hotels and resorts, clearing the stuff off beaches can amount to a round-theclock operation.

Here’s a look at this year’s sargassum seaweed bloom:

WHAT IS SARGASSUM?

A leafy brown seaweed festooned with what look like berries. The seaweed floats on the open ocean and—unlike other seaweeds—reproduces on the water’s surface, helped by air-filled structures that give it buoyancy. Sargassum originates in a vast stretch of the Atlantic Ocean called the Sargasso Sea, which lies well off the southeast U.S. The Sargasso has no land boundaries; instead, four prevailing ocean currents form its boundaries.

The matted brown seaweed stretches for miles across the ocean and provides breeding ground, food and habitat for fish, sea turtles and marine birds, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

“It’s a dynamic, constantly changing set of pieces of this large mass,” said Rick Lumpkin, director of the Physical Oceanography Division at NOAA. “It’s not one big continuous blob heading straight to South Florida.”

WHY IS IT A PROBLEM?

Sargassum piles up on beaches where it quickly decomposes under hot sun, releasing

gases that smell like rotten eggs. In recent years, sargassum has carpeted beaches on some Caribbean islands and Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula in the spring and summer months. Beach towns and cities and hotels have struggled to keep up with the huge amounts of seaweed that wash ashore.

WHAT ABOUT THIS YEAR?

Some sargassum has already reached beaches in Key West, said Chuanmin Hu, a professor of oceanography at the University of South Florida. But most of it will arrive in the summer, Hu said.

“What is unusual this year compared to previous years is it started early,” Hu said. The algae generally blooms in the spring and summer, but “this year, in the winter, we already have a lot.”

Southern Florida, the Caribbean and the Yucatán Peninsula typically see sargassum piling up in the summer months and could expect the same this year, Hu said.

IS THIS MUCH

SARGASSUM UNUSUAL?

It’s a lot, but it’s been worse.

Scientists estimate there’s more than 10 million metric tons of sargassum in the belt this year.

Lumpkin called it “one of the strongest years, but not the strongest” since scientists began closely observing the biomass via satellite imagery in 2011.

He said there was more in 2018. The years 2019 and 2021 also saw a great deal of sargassum, he said.

WHAT CAUSES IT?

Scientists aren’t exactly sure, in part because it wasn’t closely monitored until 2011.

“We do know that to get a lot of

seaweed, you need nutrients, and you need sunlight. Of course, as you get close to the equator, there’s going to be more sunlight,” said Mike Parsons, a professor of marine science at Florida Gulf Coast University.

Parsons and other experts say agricultural runoff seeping into the Amazon and Orinoco rivers and eventually the ocean could explain the increased growth of the belt on the western side. Parsons said warming waters likely help the seaweed grow faster. Changes in wind patterns, sea currents, rainfall and drought could also affect blooms.

“It may be the entire belt is fed more some years than others by dust that contains iron and other nutrients that comes from the Sahara Desert,” said Lumpkin, of NOAA.

It’s not clear whether climate change is playing any part. Hu said extreme weather that is happening more frequently due to climate change—high wind events, storms, more precipitation—could be a contributor.

IS SARGASSUM HARMFUL TO HUMAN HEALTH?

It can be. When sargassum decomposes, it releases ammonia and hydrogen sulfide, which accounts for the rotten-egg stench. Brief exposure isn’t enough to make people sick, but prolonged exposure—especially for those with respiratory issues—can be dangerous, scientists say.

Hu said it could be an issue for hotel workers and others who may spend hours removing the decomposing sargassum from beaches.

Left to rot on the beach, sargassum can turn into a problem. It can harm coastal marine ecosystems and also supports the growth of fecal bacteria.

Endangered status sought for gopher tortoise in

4 states

By Curt Anderson Associated Press

Gopher tortoises imperiled by loss of habitat largely caused by human development should be placed on the endangered species list in four southern states, environmental groups said Wednesday as they prepared to sue the federal government over the issue.

The Center for Biological Diversity and Nokuse Education filed a notice of intent to sue the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service over its decision last year not to list the gopher tortoise as endangered or threatened in Florida, Georgia, South Carolina and eastern Alabama.

The center noted there are some state-level protections for the burrowing tortoises but those generally require the animals to be moved from a development site and do not protect their habitat overall. The tortoises have lost 97% of the longleaf pine savannas where they lived for millions of years in the South.

“Without lifesaving Endangered Species Act protection for our gopher tortoises, urban sprawl will keep driving them ever closer to extinction,” said attorney Elise Bennett, the center’s Florida director.

The Fish and Wildlife Service has projected that 75% of the current gopher tortoise population will be lost by 2100. The burrows they dig with shovel-like front legs, which can extend 30 feet (9 meters) underground, also support an estimated 360 other species that use them.

The tortoises are listed as endangered in parts of Louisiana, Mississippi and western Alabama but efforts to list them in their eastern range have proved futile.

The Fish and Wildlife Service concluded in October 2022 that “the risk factors acting on the gopher tortoise and its habitat, either singly or in combination, are not of sufficient imminence, scope, or magnitude” to warrant threatened or endangered status. That decision led to the pending lawsuit.

Gopher tortoises once inhabited more than 92 million acres (37 million hectares) of land in the southeastern U.S. but now have only a fraction of that space due to human development, agriculture, climate change, invasive species and other issues, according to the center’s lawsuit notice.

They can live up to 80 years but reach reproductive age slowly.

The Fish and Wildlife Service declined to comment.

Workers, who were hired by residents, remove sargassum seaweed from the Bay of Soliman, north of Tulum, Quintana Roo state, Mexico, Aug. 3, 2022. On shore, sargassum is a nuisance—carpeting beaches and releasing a pungent smell as it decays. For hotels and resorts, clearing the stuff off beaches can amount to a round-the-clock operation. [AP Photo/Eduardo Verdugo, File]

People, Places & Things

Rock of ages

and knew she was a phenomenal singer. I showed the rest of the group one recording, and they were all amazed. The feeling was, yeah, we definitely need to get her.”

Ben-Judah, 19, is the experimentalist of the group. He digs the progressive flourish of prog rock like Rush and tinkers with effects pedals.

Philips, 18, is the jokester who comes up with the song-intro banter. Recently, he introduced a tune from “Shrek 2,” and the band started ripping into a cover of the punk classic “Ever Fallen in Love (With Someone You Shouldn’t’ve)” by the Buzzcocks.

Regardless of their differences, the bandmates manage to synthesize their preferences and curiosities into a fresh and energetic sound that’s unique and warmly familiar at the same time.

Their sets mix covers and originals. A new album is in the works, and Lopiano already has some solo tunes on Spotify.

Some cover tunes take some convincing. Bowman wasn’t sure about playing a Taylor Swift tune at first but agreed to take on the pop diva’s “You Belong With Me,” adding some rough edges to the tune’s poppy patina by palm-muting the strings.

Limestone likes to switch things up instrumentally both internally and from what our ears are used to. Ben-Judah takes over lead vocals on a cover of the Beatles’ “Norwegian Wood,” and Bowman plays banjo in place of George Harrison’s sitar.

By Julie Garisto julie@magnoliamediaco.com

The members of Limestone—one of Ocala’s youngest and most promising rock bands—are coming of age when any song from around the world, from any time period, can be played with a few taps on a smartphone.

And, like many of their peers, they are choosing to listen to the bands their Gen X or Boomer moms and dads enjoyed in heavy rotation while they were growing up.

Reese Bowman, the band’s guitarist, turns 19 this month. Donning a vintage cap and mustache with 1970s-style long hair, Bowman imparts wisdom beyond his tender years. The University of Central Florida student, who grew up in the Belleview area, emphasized a “comfortability factor” while rocking out to Pearl Jam, Led Zeppelin and other favorites of his dad.

His bandmates—Annabelle Lopiano

(vocals and guitar); Breckin Philips (bass and mandolin), and Jacob Ben-Judah (piano and drums)—also expressed affection for the music their parents listened to while they grew up.

“A song that sticks with me the most is ‘Africa’ by Toto,” Ben-Judah said. “My dad played it for us on a road trip,” he reminisced. “Every time I hear it, I’m reminded of that trip.”

Nostalgia aside, the Limestone musicians are not veering in the direction of a tribute band. They are carving out a sound that’s their own, using the multiple instruments they have been playing since the days of their music classes and recitals at Belleview Middle School, and even before that.

“My mother, Jamie, is the music teacher at Belleview Elementary,” Ben-Judah shared. “My dad also loves music. He’s the one who taught me how to play piano. He spends a lot of his free time writing songs.”

“Growing up, my dad played a lot of different music,” Philips shared. Some of his standouts include rock bands Rush

and Jethro Tull and classical staples such as Beethoven and Mozart. The multiinstrumentalist also grew up in a musical household. “My mom used to play piano and my dad was in choir in high school,’’ Philips added. “My older brother and sister both played clarinet.”

All of the members of Limestone—their band name is inspired by Ocala’s signature rock formations—combine early music training with self-taught, evolving chops.

Lopiano, who’s turning 18 soon, leans more toward contemporary pop featuring prominent female vocals. “Some of my favorite artists have got to be Taylor Swift, Paramore, Phoebe Bridgers and Lizzy McAlpine,” she said.

She and the guys officially formed Limestone during a talent showcase at Belleview High School last year.

“Anabelle actually didn’t know that I had already put the band together,” Bowman prefaced. “She had approached me, and I said, ‘Huh, funny enough, I already have a group.’ I had already heard her sing

“I feel like it’s definitely important to be able to know what your sound is,” Bowman said. “But to have a unique sound, it doesn’t have to be wildly outlandish or anything. Because if it’s not what you want to play, it’s obviously not going to be genuine. And if it’s not genuine, it’s not going to stand out.”

The band’s first public gig recently took place at master painter Lisa Russo’s carnival-mask-themed art reception in February at the Brick City Center for the Arts. Russo’s daughter Victoria is a close friend of Lopiano.

Toning things down with acoustics, Limestone got a great response from the crowd at the Brick, and the members say they are ready to take on more public venues and events.

“A venue in Ocala I’d love for us to play would be the square,” Lopiano said, “either on the square itself or in some of the local restaurants surrounding it. That would be amazing.”

For more information on Limestone or to contact them for a gig, visit instagram.com/limestone.band

For these fun-loving seniors, softball is a hit

There’s always room for more players, and friends, in the Marion County Senior Softball program.

By Andy Fillmore Correspondent

Rob Minter, a dialysis patient awaiting a kidney transplant, was right where he wanted to be Friday morning: on second base at Ocala’s Ralph Russell Park.

Minter, 50, a former strong safety on the Marshall University football team, is one of about 55 current participants in Marion County Senior Softball (MCSS), a program, open to men over 50 and women over 45. There are no tryouts or qualifications necessary.

The group plays Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9 a.m. to about 11 a.m. at Ralph Russell Park, at 1690 Pine Road.

Minter said playing in the program, along with diet and gym workouts, has helped him lose 40 pounds.

“It’s important when I get on the operating table,” Minter said.

He said he hopes to get a donor kidney within three years.

Nicole Martin, Minter’s fiancé, encouraged him from a sideline fence. Martin said playing with MCSS “helps (Minter) and (keeps) his spirits up.”

Minter said he likes the camaraderie and the encouragement the players share even when mistakes are made during a game.

“There’s a lot of (mutual) support,” he said, noting that at least one player has added him to his church’s prayer list.

George Haralson is the program’s liaison with Marion County Parks and Recreation.

“The common thread in the program is the camaraderie,” Haralson said.

He explained in an email what sets this program apart from others.

“Potential players are often discouraged because of the requirement(s) most leagues have,” he said. “MCSS allows all seniors to play regardless of their experience or talent.”

In 2014, the Golden Seniors Softball League, which was founded in 1989 in Marion County, disbanded, and Marion County Parks and Recreation formed the MCSS.

Gary Luscombe, 83, has played in senior leagues for about 20 years. He has had multiple surgeries including knee and rotator cuff operations at UF Health Shands Hospital.

“Play one time, and you get hooked,”

Fresh from the Belleview area, Limestone plays rock that transcends generations while paying tribute to the classic rock, pop and punk of their forebears.

Limestone members (left to right): Annabelle Lopiano, Jacob Ben-Judah, Reese Bowman and Breckin Philips. [Supplied]

Delatore of Team

reacts

her

the outfield

Team

catcher Ed Cowan

during a Marion County Senior Softball game at Ralph Russell Park in Silver Springs Shores

Eat and drink well on a budget

Editor’s Note: Because we’re all feeling the pinch of inflation, the Gazette has begun “More for Less,” a recurring list of budget-friendly things to experience and buy to help stretch your dollar a little further.

By Julie Garisto julie@magnoliamediaco.com.

Sometimes it seems like robust, clean eating has become more of a luxury, but saving money on a good meal has to do with being strategic with your BOGOs and sales.

For a winning stirfry, Winn-Dixie has USDA Choice Certified Angus Beef Boneless Stir Fry on sale for $8.99 a pound. Store-brand, 1-pound packages of brown and white rice are just $1 apiece, and Bolthouse carrot chips are $2 a bag.

Craving a burger with quality meat? Winn Dixie’s SE Grocers Naturally Better Grass Fed Beef is also

marked down to $6.49 a package. All sales expire March 28.

Are you tired of fish on Fridays, but don’t want to eat meat? Or, do you just love seafood of all types at any time? Faroe Island Scallops are $9.99 a pound, and around 40 to 80 scallops make up a pound; wildcaught, previously frozen.

It’s a great time to buy strawberries, and Publix has them priced “2 for $5,” which if you’re not familiar with the company’s sales parlance, means they’re only $2.50 a pint. You don’t have to buy two.

Digital coupons, on Publix’s website or app, include a $1.50 off coupon for a bag of Avocados from Mexico (Sorry about putting that TV jingle in your head!) and buy-two-get-one-free Suja cold-pressed juices.

Coffee lovers seek out whole-bean coffee, but the prices have risen to absurd amounts lately. Thankfully, Publix, Target and Winn-Dixie stock a variety of whole bean and ground varieties, and mark down their Starbucks 12-ounce packages and K Cups

every few weeks. Target has them on sale this week, but the catch is, you have to buy two to get the $7.99 sale price. Since Target hosts Starbucks cafes in their stores, their stock tends to be a little newer than the grocers’ varieties.

While cooking homemade is always healthier, sometimes you just don’t have time. Good & Gather products at Target are some of the best store-brand items you can find outside Trader Joe’s. They often feature wood-fired frozen pizzas, distinctive hors d’oeuvres and pantry staples for a relatively low price.

“A lot of foods are both inexpensive and nutritious,” the medical advice publication “Heathline” explains in “19 Clever Ways to Eat on a Budget.”

“By making some adjustments and using ingredients that you may not be used to, you can prepare many delicious and inexpensive meals,” the article assures.

Poland’s milk bars dish up memories and cheap eats

By Rick Steves

Iremember a bleak time in Poland when the economy was so maddeningly out of touch with the needs of its people that anyone lucky enough to own a car would remove their windshield wipers at night and take them inside. In their command economy –oblivious to the laws of supply and demand – some official forgot to order wipers and consequently, they weren’t for sale anywhere. Inspired by a hungry black market, thieves would work late into the night snapping them up.

Many Americans remember Poland as bleak and run-down – full of rusting factories and smoggy cities. I remember a time when the air was so polluted it turned my hanky black the day I entered the country. Glum locals used to stand patiently in line to sip a drink from the

same tin cup tethered to a soda stand by a rusty little chain.

Of course, those days are long gone now, and many American visitors are stunned speechless when they step into Krakow’s vibrant main square, Gdansk’s lively streets, or Warsaw’s colorful Old Town.

While a new affluence has arrived, visitors can still see a variety of Polands: Lively and cosmopolitan urban centers; breathtaking medieval cities showing off a dynamic history; grimy industrial zones still cleaning up the mess left by the Soviets; and hundreds of traditional farm villages in the countryside.

As I’m more nostalgic for the humble old days than most locals, I’m sure to venture into the countryside. City dwellers often talk about the “simple people” of Poland – those descended from generations of farmers, working the same plots for centuries and living an uncomplicated,

MAX Art Heist steals the scene May 6

By Julie Garisto julie@magnoliamediaco.com

Sneaky mischief and larceny combine with hobnobbing, art and fundraising when the annual Art Heist returns on May 6 to the Magnolia Art Xchange, or MAX.

The Ocala arts incubator and support organization will reprise its yearly soiree of mischievous mayhem as it provides art lovers the opportunity to win a piece of art or steal a local original.

Here’s how it works: Guests purchase tickets in a prize drawing and those with a winning ticket can select from a variety of original artwork created by talented local artists, but if someone else chooses the piece you had your eye on, you can “steal” it from them for a price.

“We are taking art donations for the

show,” said MAX director Jesse James.

“We are also hosting a special VIP preview reception, where VIP ticket holders will have the first opportunity to view the artwork up for grabs while enjoying hors d’oeuvres and adult beverages.”

Tickets are $25 for one, $50 for three or $100 for seven. Proceeds will support MAX’s efforts to foster creativity and professionalism as a collaborative resource hub for artists, educators, and art enthusiasts.

The art grab will take place 6:30 to 9 p.m. May 6 at the Ocala Union Station, at 531 NE First Ave. Ocala.

Admission to the event is free, but tickets are required to participate in the game. For updates, visit Magnolia Arts Xchange’s Facebook page at facebook.com/ maxocala.

traditional lifestyle. Spending time with this large contingent of old-fashioned, down-to-earth folks can be a great way to get a true sense of Poland’s story. Sometimes my nostalgia for the old times confounds my Polish hosts. In Krakow, my friend, Kasia, wanted to treat me to a fine dinner and asked where I’d like to eat. I said a “milk bar.” Kasia said her mother would never forgive her if I took her American friend to one of these bleak governmentsubsidized workers’ diners. I begged, promising I’d never tell, and Kasia agreed.

For me, eating at a “bar mleczny” –or “milk bar” – is an essential Polish sightseeing experience. These cafeterias, which you’ll see all over the country, are a dirt-cheap way to get a meal … and, with the right attitude, a fun cultural adventure.

In the communist era, the government subsidized the food at milk bars. The idea: to allow lowly workers to afford a meal out. The tradition continues, and today Poland still foots the bill for most of your milk-bar meal. Prices remain astoundingly low – my bill usually comes to about $5 – and, while communist-era fare was less than lively, today’s milk-bar cuisine is tastier.

Milk bars offer many of Poland’s traditional favorites. Common items are delicious soups, a variety of cabbage-based salads, fried pork chops, pierogi (ravioli with various fillings), and pancakes. At the

milk bar, you’ll often see glasses of watery juice and – of course – milk, but most milk bars also stock bottles of water and Coke. Try a Polish pastry, especially the classic pączki, glazed jelly doughnuts typically filled with a wild-rose jam.

At milk bars, the service is aimed at locals. You’re unlikely to find an English menu. If the milk-bar lady asks you any questions, you have three options: nod happily until she just gives you something; repeat one of the things she just said (assuming she’s asked you to choose between two options, such as meat or cheese in your pierogi); or hope that a kindly English-speaking person in line will leap to your rescue. If nothing else, ordering at a milk bar is a fiesta of gestures. Smiling seems to slightly extend the patience of milk-bar staffers.

Every milk bar is a little different, but here’s the general procedure: Head to the counter, wait to be acknowledged, and point to what you want. Two handy words are “to” (sounds like “toe” and means “this”) and “i” (pronounced “ee” and means “and”).

My milk-bar dialogue usually goes like this: Milk Bar lady says “Prosze?” (Can I help you, please?). I say “to” (while pointing)...“i to” (pointing again)... “i to” (pointing once more). It means, “This...and this...and this.” It’s not pretty, but it gets the job done.

Chowing down with the locals you’ll marvel at how you can still eat lunch for $5 as you experience a little bit of nostalgia from Poland’s communist days.

(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.)

Tale of a disco deviant

Interested in a flick not at the megaplex? Take the Chilean dark comedy “Tony Manero” for a whirl.

By Julie Garisto julie@magnoliamediaco.com

The College of Central Florida’s Ira

Holmes International Film Series lands in Chile this week with a finger pointed skyward and a shiny disco ball.

At 7 p.m. on Tuesday, March 28, the twisted Chilean comedy “Tony Manero” (NR, 2008) follows Raúl Peralta, a middle-aged criminal who is obsessed with impersonating John Travolta’s “Saturday Night Fever” character.

Peralta’s dancing and showbiz aspirations turn dark and lead to theft, crime and even murder, set against the backdrop of Chile’s Augusto Pinochet military dictatorship.

The obsessive Peralta, like Travis Bickle in “Taxi Driver,” is one of those tragic antiheroes who still manages to fascinate us while creeping us

out. According to Jonathan Romney of “Sight and Sound,” he is “one of the most disturbing and intractably unsympathetic figures in recent cinema.”

The combination of Hollywood fantasy, obsession and gruesome sociopathic behavior is blackly satirical and isn’t all for shock value, writes “Film Comment.” “Director/co-writer Pablo Larraín is clearly after more than cynical laughter,” the review professes.

The film is unrated and contains graphic violence and adult themes. The screening will take place at CF’s Ocala Campus, 3001 S.W. College Road, Building 8, Room 110 (rescheduled from Oct. 11, 2022). The showing is free and open to the public.

For a full series list and more information about the Ira Holmes International Film Series, visit CF.edu/filmseries.

Krakow’s main square offers a vibrant slice of modern Polish life—and it’s just steps away from a cheap and cheerful milk bar meal. [Rick Steves]

Submissions of art donations are being accepted now.

Shared camaraderie

Continued from page B1

Luscombe said.

A visit to a recent game found players with a diversity of backgrounds.

Mike Rogers, center fielder, is retired from the Marion County Solid Waste Department while outfielder Arthur Holden, 75, is a retired science teacher.

MCSS player Nick Estavillo, 78, is a retired chief of patrol with the New York City Police Department who oversaw 20,000 officers and 4,000 civilian staff members. He also served in the Marine Corps. including service in Vietnam in 1966 and 1967 in a recon unit.

Ed Cowan, 70, is playing after knee surgery in January, and Mike Tamburello, 63, who is in the HVAC business, has had both hips replaced.

Gary “Pappy” Phelps, 83, a former Florida Freshwater Fish and Game Commission game warden who served in areas including the Everglades, was acting as home plate umpire during the recent game.

“Makes me feel like a teenager again,” he said. “This is a great league.”

Army veteran and single dad Derwin “D.C.” Cobb played all nine positions during the game and had words of encouragement for his teammates. His daughter, Winter, 11, shared the fun with her dad and helped by retrieving bats from home plate.

MCSS player Calvin Osteen, 80, is retired from Southern Bell telephone. He survived cancer 22 years ago and in recent years has suffered a stroke and had two heart stents implanted.

Boyce Kline, 85, a retired Navy veteran, said playing with the MCSS group keeps you young.

Sara Lambert, community engagement coordinator for Marion County Parks and Recreation, oversees the program. She said all levels of players are welcome and there is a $50 per season

sign-up fee. Players can join anytime.

Lambert explained in an email that Ralph Russell Park was donated to Marion County in 1978 by the Ralph Russell Memorial Fund, Inc. Since 1997, she said, the county has “awarded more than $74,000 in park partnership grant funds for improvements to the park,” which has baseball and softball fields, restroom and concession facilities and playground equipment.

Julio Castro, 61, is with The Guest House (Ocala) treatment center, a team sponsor. He said playing with MCSS “keeps the blood going.”

MCSS player George Kershner, a Del Webb Community resident temporally sidelined by a medical issue, watched the recent game. He said he misses playing and hopes to rejoin the team soon.

Meanwhile, Dennis Morgan, 82, whose career was in the automotive trade, played outfield “rover” and said he loves the games. Morgan is one of the program’s contact people for new players.

Carlie Smith, 66, a caregiver, moved here three years ago from Oregon. She’s a self-described “sports girl” and she said playing softball helps her keep fit. Elise Delatore, an office manager, said playing with the group is fun.

Pat West, retired oil refinery supervisor, said she enjoys the camaraderie of the MCSS players.

Haralson stated MCSS provides “an affordable, safe place to play slow-pitch softball in an atmosphere of fair play, sportsmanship and friendly rivalry. Beginners are welcome.”

During a game, he noted, “If you don’t have fun (playing MCSS), it’s your own fault.”

More information and contacts can be found at: marioncountyseniorsoftball.com, Facebook: bit.ly/3FGg30s or call (352)671-8560.

Art for a cause

The Pearl Project of Ocala.

Staff report

Twenty-two artists from Gallery B in Ocala have combined their love for oil painting with their passion for supporting programs assisting children and families in need by creating more than 100 vibrant florals to be displayed and available for sale.

The exhibit, “Flora for Fostering,” will have a special viewing and purchase event from 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, April 4, at SouthState Bank, 1632 E. Silver Springs Blvd.

The artists have been painting together for several years with the help and guidance of Julie Shealy. Together, they did a book study of the novel “The Language of Flowers” by Vanessa Diffenbaugh, which describes how flowers have specific definitions and possible healing powers and the dire need for help in training and caring for foster children and caregivers.

For three decades, Shealy was a teacher, principal and administrator, who painted occasionally and

volunteered with Fine Arts For Ocala. When she retired as an educator, she embraced painting and found that really loved painting flowers. In the summer of 2022, Shealy and four other artists opened Gallery B.

Joy and Stephen Zedler started the The Pearl Project in 2018 to support other foster and adoptive families, teachers and others with resources such as support groups, training, a Kid-2-Kid Closet and a Hope Fund dedicated to making more resources affordable for families.

The “Flora for Fostering” exhibit will include more than 100 original paintings for sale, representing each letter of the alphabet created by the artists in three different mediums using multiple techniques. All proceeds will benefit The Pearl Project of Ocala.

“And the prices are very reasonable,” Shealy said.

Food and beverages will be available during the event. Tickets are $20 and may be purchased at bit.ly/JulieShealy or in person at Greiners, Her Kloset, Pen and Ink, and Gallery B.

“Flora for Fostering” exhibit sales will benefit

Photos By Bruce Ackerman Ocala Gazette

Team Two’s Ben Nelson fields a Team One hit in the infield during a Marion County Senior Softball game at Ralph Russell Park in Silver Springs Shores on Friday, March 17, 2023.

Team One players, Rob Minter, left, and Nick Estaviollo, right, return to the dugout together.

Bob Bruni tosses a pitch.

Team One’s Jim Hindman pulls in an out on a Team Two hit in the infield. Elise Delatore of Team Two gets a hit into the outfield as Team One catcher Ed Cowan watches.

Bird of the Week

with the numbers

numbers within the same row, column or square.

By Michael Warren

The yellow-breasted chat is a rarity in Marion County, with less than 20 reported sightings on Cornell University’s popular eBird app. This one appeared along the new Shackleton Trail at the Carney Island Recreation Area on Lake Weir last year during a bird walk with the local Audubon Society. It was an unexpected and exciting find. To join an Audubon bird walk, get more information at marionaudubon.org.

HONORING THE FALLEN

FIRST

Saturday, April

2720 Silver Springs Blvd Community Room

For info, call (352)873-7441

A ceremony to honor those who served but did not survive. As we honor their service and sacrifice, we also have a chance to tell their story, unburden our grief and renew our respect for service.

To close the ceremony, we will walk to the Pavilion in the Veterans Memorial Park for a final tribute.

Sponsored by the City of Ocala Hospice of Marion County We Honor Veterans and Marion County Veterans Park

SUNDAY BRUNCH Buffet

Yellow-breasted chat [MichaelWarren.com]

LOCAL CALENDAR LISTINGS community

MARCH 24-26

Horse Shows in the Sun Ocala Championship

HITS Post Time Farm, 13710 US Highway 27, Ocala

8am-last class

The final week of this renowned show jumping competition offers more than $350,000 in prizes.

The Great American $300,000 Grand Prix is on Sunday and a VIP brunch package includes breakfast, carving station, specialty desserts and more; tickets for brunch start at $80. Free regular admission. Info at hitsshows.com/visit-hits

MARCH 24-26

2023 Winter Spectacular Show

Series

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

8am-4pm

The final week of this winter hunter/jumper festival showcases world-class hunters and show jumpers, culminating in the Grand Prix on Saturday evening. For more info, worldequestriancenter.com

MARCH 25

Festival Latino Citizens’ Circle, 110 SE Watula Avenue, Ocala

11am-6pm

Celebrate Latin culture with food trucks, drink options, artists’ booths with handcrafted items, music, kids’ activities and more. Free to attend. For more info, see facebook.com/latinfestivalocala

MARCH 25

Art for Animals Tattoo Event

Fist City Tattoo Shop, 1905 SW College Road, #1, Ocala

12pm-9pm

This unique fundraiser for the Humane Society of Marion County is in its eighth year and features

“flash tattoos” of specific designs. Pets will be onsite for adoption, along with raffles and giveaways, and the Lucky’s Kitchen food truck. For more info, see Fist City Tattoos on Instagram.

MARCH 25

Down for Donuts

CrossFit Iron Legion, 217 SE 1st Ave., Ocala

8am This fitness competition is for any level of athlete with division, scaled tests, individual and team events, along with a silent auction, and, of course, donuts. Proceeds benefit Gigi’s Playhouse, a Down Syndrome Achievement Center. Tickets start at $50. See crossfitironlegion.com/events-schedule/ down-for-donuts-8 to register.

MARCH 25

GospelFest

Mt. Calvary Missionary Baptist Church, 5000 SW College Road, Ocala

12pm-6pm

The festival will feature a variety of musical acts, home-cooked foods, children’s activities and open mic time. Attendees are encouraged to bring chairs, blankets and tents as the event is outdoors. For more info, call Pastor Standley Gillings at (352) 286-3170 or event co-chair Karon Johnson at (352) 875-0197.

MARCH 25

Marion County Day

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

10am-4pm

There will be storytelling, vendors, food options, historical and educational presentations, games, interactive events and activities for kids. Free to attend. See marionfl.org for more info.

MARCH 25 & APRIL 1

Yoga in the Park

Sholom Park, 7110 SW 80th Ave., Ocala

9am

Free yoga classes at the stage area; recurs every Saturday morning. Visit sholompark.org for details.

MARCH 25 & APRIL 1

Ocala Farmers Market

Ocala Downtown Market, 310 SE Third St., Ocala

9am-2pm Vendors offer local fruits and vegetables, meats

government

MARCH 26 & APRIL 3

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

MARCH 27

Marion County Planning & Zoning

Commission

McPherson Governmental Campus Auditorium, 601 SE 25th

Ave., Ocala

5:30pm

Meets on the last Monday of the month; agendas, minutes and video available at marionfl.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx

MARCH 28

Public Hearing on Land Development Code Amendments

McPherson Governmental Campus Auditorium, 601 SE 25th

Ave., Ocala

10am Public is invited to attend and offer comments on code changes proposed for Marion County.

MARCH 30

Public Hearing on Golf Cart Expansion for Downtown Area

IHMC, 15 SE Osceola Ave., Ocala

12pm & 5:30pm

Public hearings to review and discuss the proposed golf

and seafood, fresh pasta, honey, jewelry, baked goodies, and arts and crafts. Check out local food trucks and the occasional guest entertainer. Rain or shine; recurs every Saturday. Visit ocaladowntownmarket.com for more info.

MARCH 25 & APRIL 1

Farmers Swap Meet

Rural King, 2999 NW 10th St., Ocala

9am-2pm 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.

MARCH 26

Pack Walk Silver Springs State Park, 5656 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala

9am-10:30am Help adoptable Marion County Animal Shelter dogs get out and about. Park entry fee is $2. Recurs monthly on the fourth Sunday. For more info, animalservices.manrionfl.org

MARCH 26

Ocala Polo Club Winter Games-

Season Finale Florida Horse Park, 11008 South Highway 475, Ocala

1pm

The last match of the winter season is this week. Bring chairs, blankets and snacks. Tents are available for rent. Leashed dogs are welcome. For more information, visit ocalapolo.com

MARCH 28

King of the Wing Citizens’ Circle, 151 SE Osceola Ave., Ocala 5pm-9pm

The Marion County Builders Association puts on this fundraiser for the Advocacy Resource Center, featuring lots of local groups competing for the best wings in the county. Tickets are $25 in advance and $30 at the gate. For more info, mcbia.org

MARCH 29

Equine Industry Expo

Ocala Downtown Market, 310 SE Third St., Ocala 1pm-7pm There will be a variety of horse breeds, a pony

cart map expansion for the city. Free and open to the public. See ocalafl.org/GolfCart for more info.

MARCH 31

Deadline for Paid Internships Program

5pm

The City of Ocala is taking applications for paid internships for the summer of 2023, with five positions available in engineering, water resources operations and water conservation and outreach. On the job training and experience, plus $15 per hour for an estimated 28 hours per week. To apply, visit ocalafl.org/government/citydepartments-i-z/water-resources/internships

APRIL 4

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

APRIL 4

Marion County Board of County Commissioners Meeting

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

9am & 2pm

Meets on the first and third Tuesdays of the month. The Planning & Zoning portion is scheduled for the 2pm meeting. Agendas are usually posted the Thursday prior. Agendas, minutes and video available at marionfl.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx

MARCH 24 & 31

corral for photo ops for the kids, horsemanship presentations, carriage rides, food trucks and more. Free admission. See web.ocalacep.com/events/TheEquine%20 Industry%20Expo%20-31317/details

MARCH 30

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/visitors for more info

MARCH 31-APRIL 1

McIntosh Garden Show and Plant

Sale

Van Ness Park, 5835 Avenue G, McIntosh Friday, 1pm-4pm; Saturday, 9am-4pm

The McIntosh Seedlings and Garden Club’s annual plant sale offers plants, seeds, veggies and more, along with garden décor. Proceeds help sponsor scholarships to the Wekiva Youth Camp. Free to attend. Visit mcintoshseedlings.com

APRIL 1

April Foolin’ On The Dock Dog Contest

Ocala Dog Ranch, 440 SW 110th Ave., Ocala

9am-5pm

This International Dog Sports event will have multiple jump opportunities, food trucks, vendors and pets available for adoption from an area rescue group. Games include Horizon for distance; Eclipse for fetching; and Velocity of speed. Free for spectators; jumping rounds for dogs start at $20 in advance and $25 day of. For more info, check out ocaladogranch.com

THROUGH APRIL 8

Photos with the Easter Bunny

Paddock Mall, 3100 SW College Road, Ocala Mall hours

Time blocks of 15 minutes can be scheduled online and walk-up guests are welcome. See whereisbunny.com for reservations.

civicChess 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.

MARCH 24 & 31

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

MARCH 28

Ocala Blue Star Mothers

Arena 1, second floor, World Equestrian Center Ocala, 1390 NW 80th Ave., Ocala

6pm

Organization for mothers of active-duty military and veterans meets the fourth Tuesday of each month. New members welcome. Call Anne Parker at (843) 504-0032 or visit ocalabluestarmothers.org

MARCH 29

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.

MARCH 30

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

VISIT OUR EVENTS CALENDAR ONLINE

arts

MARCH 25

Premiere Event: “Backstreet the Series”

Marion Theatre, 50 S Magnolia Ave., Ocala

6:30pm and 8pm

Local artists and film-makers Theresia and Tekulve Jackson have developed the “Backstreet” project that focuses on small cities home to many talented people. Tickets are free for the event, but must be reserved. Email to entertainment@backstreet.live for more info.

MARCH 26 & APRIL 2

Central Florida Master Choir

Dunnellon Presbyterian Church, 20641 Chestnut St., Dunnellon (03/26) Country Presbyterian Church, 7768 SW Highway 200, Ocala (04/02)

3pm both locations

This year’s choir show is “Night and Day” and will offer renditions of songs by Beethoven, Porter, Bach, Lennon, McCartney and others. The Dunnellon performance takes place March 26; the Ocala show is April 2. Free to all, with donations gratefully accepted. Check out cfmasterchoir.com for more info.

MARCH 28

Salsa Dance Class

Brick City Center for the Arts, 23 SW Broadway St., Ocala

6pm-7:30pm

Dancer Baila Caliente will teach LA-style salsa, showing basic footwork followed by partner dance. All levels of dancers are welcome. Tickets are $10 from Eventbrite; see mcaocala.org/event/ mca-presents-salsa-dance-class-with-bailacaliente-2 for more info.

MARCH 28 & 29

CF Talk: Skeptoid Podcast Host:

Brian Dunning

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

12:30pm

Author, podcaster and film-maker Dunning talks about conspiracy theories, science literacy and critical thinking, plus sign copies of his new book.

Free to attend. Visit CF.edu for more info.

MARCH 28

Ira Holmes International Film Series:

“Tony Manero”

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

7pm

When a criminal who is obsessed with the “Saturday Night Fever” character makes the wrong move with the wrong guys, this drama turns dark. Unrated, with graphic violence and adult themes. This is part of an ongoing series of international films. Free to the public. For more info, CF.edu/filmseries

MARCH 30

Public Art and Mural Jobs

Brick City Center for the Arts, 23 SW Broadway St., Ocala

5pm-6:30pm

Artists who want to learn about public art and businesses who want to understand how to commission these large works of art are invited to this presentation. Speakers include muralists David Carmack and Jordan Shapot, along with Leslie Nottingham from the City of Ocala’s Cultural Arts Division. Free to attend, but RSVP is requested: eventbrite.com/e/mca-experience-presentspublic-art-and-mural-jobs-tickets-588404763487

MARCH 31

Caribbean Chillers-Jimmy Buffett

Tribute

Circle Square Cultural Center, 8395 SW 80th St., Ocala

7pm

This party band recreates the Jimmy Buffett sound and vibe. Tickets start at $31. See csculturalcenter. com/events/492 for info and purchase.

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

&nightlifemusic

experience as a carriage driver for inspiration. Free to the public during business hours. For more info, see ocalafl.org/artincityspaces

APRIL 1

The Buzzcatz Swing and Soul

Classics

Orange Blossom Opry, 16439 SW 138th Terrace, Weirsdale

7:30pm

The Swing era comes to life when the Buzzcatz hit the stage with their “Mob Hits & More” show. Tickets from $28, available from obopry.com

APRIL 1

After Dark in Park: “The Monuments

Men” Tuscawilla Art Park, 213 NE 5th St., Ocala

8pm-10pm

The City of Ocala sponsors free movies in the park and this month it’s about rescuing art masterpieces. Rated PG-13; bring a blanket or chair. Light refreshments are available to purchase. Free for all. For more info, ocalafl.org

MARCH 29 THROUGH MAY 4 College of Central Florida Student

Art Exhibition College of Central Florida CF Webber Gallery, 3001 SW College Road, Ocala

12:30pm for reception, then 10am-4pm

Monday-Thursday

The Visual Arts and Digital Media students from CF present their works in this special exhibition, with an opening reception and awards ceremony. Best in Show, first to third places and honorable mentions will be presented by Nichola Kalemba of Orlando. Free to the public. For more info, CF.edu

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

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, displays 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

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 13

Aerial Dream Views of Land and Sea

Ocala International Airport, 1770 SW 60th Ave., Ocala Airport hours

Part of the Art in City Spaces program, artist Maggie Weakly shares her ocean-themed collection. Free to the public. 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

Sports

Patriots slug their way past Saints

double by Ariana Wright.

Anna Toon came on in relief of Guffey with one out in the top of the first and retired the next two batters.

Central Florida answered in the bottom of the frame as Brooke Roberts, Hannah Meyer, Emily Konz and Cameron Wolfenden had RBI singles and Hailey Scott laced a two-run double off Santa Fe pitcher Sophie Abrams as the Patriots took a 6-5 lead.

frame as sophomore Gianna Guerriero belted a two-run double and scored on a Santa Fe error to put the Patriots on top, 11-7.

The Saints kept battling and managed to score a pair of runs in the top of the fourth inning on an RBI double by Riley Schnyder and a runscoring single by Jayelyn Carter to pull within 11-9.

By Mark Pinson

Special to Ocala Gazette

After falling behind by five runs in the top of the first inning, the College of Central Florida softball team showed great resiliency by storming back to score six runs in the bottom of the frame on its way to a hardfought 11-9 win over Santa Fe College on March 16.

The loss dropped the Santa Fe Saints to 23-12 overall and 0-1 in Mid Florida Conference play.

The win, in its conference opener, snapped a two-game losing streak for the College of

Central Florida and improved the Patriots to 31-8, 1-0.

“That was definitely a roller coaster game,” said Central Florida coach Mike Lingle. “From the very first inning to the last we were on eggshells. One good thing about this team is they fight no matter if they’re down or up. I liked our energy in the dugout today and little stuff like that means a lot in a tight game like this.”

Santa Fe College (Gainesville) jumped in front in the top of the first inning by scoring five runs off Central Florida starter Haley Guffey with the key hit a three-run

Santa Fe went back to work in the top of the second inning and took advantage of three walks and two base hits to score two runs. Guffey came on in relief of Toon with the bases loaded and nobody out and retired the next three Saints hitters to leave Central Florida trailing by a score of 7-6.

The Patriots wasted no time in roughing up Abrams again in the bottom of the inning as Megan Loftis led off with an infield single and the left-handed Scott followed with a blast over the rightcenter field fence for a tworun homer and an 8-7 lead.

The right-handed Guffey, who scattered 10 hits and struck out four, breezed through the Santa Fe lineup in the third inning.

Central Florida, which banged out 12 hits, extended its lead in the bottom of the

Santa Fe put runners on base in the fifth, sixth and seventh innings but Guffey bore down each time to record key outs to keep the Patriots on top.

The Saints had runners on first and second base with two outs in the seventh inning and brought the go-ahead run to the plate in Juliann Smith. Guffey got Smith to fly out to left field to end the threat and the game.

The gutty performance over 6 1/3 innings improved Guffey, a talented freshman, to an impressive 18-2 on the season.

“Haley is a great student of the game and she worked on her curve between innings in the bullpen and figured out what she needed to correct,” coach Lingle said. “I don’t want to have 17 more conference games like this, but a win is a win.”

When moments matter

trust the ER experts

From high fevers and breathing problems to abdominal pains and falls, our team is ready for every emergency. And, as Marion County’s only dedicated Children’s ER, we make it convenient to access expert pediatric emergency care when you need it most. So you can get back to the life you love.

The College of Central Florida’s Emily Konz (3) gets a knee to the neck as she slides safely into third base as Santa Fe’s Story Giebeig (21) looks for the out during a softball game at the College of Central Florida in Ocala on Thursday, March 16, 2023.

Photos By Bruce Ackerman Ocala Gazette

The College of Central Florida’s Emily Konz (3) scores as Santa Fe’s catcher Kayla Alexandre (18) loses the ball in the dirt as CF’s coach, Mike Lingle, cheers Konz on for the score.

The College of Central Florida’s Cameron Wolfenden (23) makes it safely to first base as Santa Fe’s Madison Hewett (77) can’t handle the throw at first.

Weber earns 20th championship

The Live Oak International competition saw numerous winners in combined driving and show jumping, including a record title win for Ocala’s Chester Weber.

Staff report

The weather was a bit dicey during this year’s Live Oak International, but even a few rain showers couldn’t dampen the excitement for onlookers or the high spirits of the competitors.

A highlight of the event was when Ocala’s own Chester Weber clinched his 20th USEF Four-in-Hand Horse National Championship title. His winning team of horses included Amadeus, First Edition, Julius V and Kadora. “I’m very pleased with the team of horses as they presented themselves well throughout the tournament. This is the first time that this group has competed together. I’ve had all the horses individually at different shows as we were trying to determine our best mix for going to Europe this year,” Weber said in a news release. “A lot of hard work and dedication has gone into these 20 championship titles. We’ll stay focused and work towards championship title number 21. We have next year’s World Championships in our sights, and I’m excited for the team’s potential.”

The 32nd annual Live Oak International again showcased combined driving and show jumping competitions and attracted some of the best drivers and riders in the world. The event was the last leg before the Longines FEI Jumping World Cup Final in April.

Live Oak International (LOI) took place March 16-19 at Live Oak Stud, west of Ocala. The event is organized by co-presidents Weber and his niece Chloe Reid, who is a member of the U.S. Show Jumping Team.

Among the winners of the event, according to LOI news releases, were:

•Taylor Bradish won the cones phase in the FEI 3* Single Horse, with Leslie Berndl in second place and Catherine Levasseur in third.

•Jacob Arnold took first in the FEI 3* Horse Pair cones phase, with Gabriele Grasso in second and Paul Maye in third.

•Andre Thieme won the CSI 4*-W $222,600 Longines FEI Jumping World Cup Ocala presented by Lugano Diamonds. Taking second was Maria Gabriela Brugal Gasso and in third was Santiago Lambre.

•The $5,000 EPIC Insurance Group Leading Lady Rider Award was presented to Nicolette Hirt, who accumulated the highest number of points over the three days of show jumping competition.

•The Anna Klose Leading Owner Award was presented to Johan Sebastian Gulliksen.

•The $5,000 Leading Rider Award went to Andrew Thieme for posting consistent results throughout the competition.

•Aaron Vale took home the win in the CSI 4*

$55,000 Longines Grand Prix Qualifier 1.55m speed class. Will Simpson finished second and Daniel Coyle placed third.

•Simpson took the win in the CSI4* $5,000 Welcome 1.40m Power & Speed, with McLain Ward in second and Coco Fath in third.

•Tori Corts took home the win the CSI1* $2,500 Waldron Private Wealth Welcome 1.30m Power & Speed class, with Sophia Ayers finishing second and Jordan Coyle in third.

•In the Friends of the Tournament Youth Driving Division, Ashton Maye took the top spot in the 12 and under dressage phase. First in the 13-16-year-old group was Alexia Guillemette.

•The Peterson & Smith Equine Hospital Intermediate Driving Dressage Pony Single was won by Denise Loewe, with Sarah Reitz in second.

For the complete list of winners, go to bit.ly/3n8PuL8

Hilary Mroz-Blythe of Leverett, MA drives her FEI 3* Pony Single through the Gold’s Gym water hazard in the Marathon during Live Oak International on Saturday, March 18, 2023.

Photos By Bruce Ackerman Ocala Gazette

Left: Chester Weber drives his FEI 3* Horse Team through the Gold’s Gym water hazard in the Marathon

The Phillip Odden team from Baronett, WI drives through the Gold’s Gym water hazard in the Intermediate Pony Single class in the Marathon during Live Oak International on Saturday, March 18, 2023

SOFTBALL SCORES

BASEBALL SCORES

By Allen Barney allen@ocalagazette.com

History was made on March 21 as the Trinity Catholic Celtics (10-2) and the Forest Wildcats (6-4) baseball teams faced off for the first time.

Forest starting pitcher Mason Laurito came out firing as he worked around a walk to strike out the side in the top of the first inning.

Trinity Catholic starting pitcher Ryan Young answered with a scoreless inning despite walking a batter and giving up a single to Mikey Mellucci.

After a one-out walk by Brian Rudman, Laurito lost control of the strike zone and walked the next three hitters to bring home Rudman and give Trinity Catholic a 1-0 lead in the top of the second.

Jorge Romero came in for Laurito and faced a based-loaded one-out situation. Romero retired Connor Tundis and Seve Fernandez to get out of the jam and keep it at a one-run deficit.

Forest head coach Mark Streit had nothing but high praise for Romero’s perseverance of coming in at a tough spot and working out of it.

“He didn’t make the team his first three years and tonight he gets thrown into a big role during a big game. He did a great job coming in and filling that role and he had the whole team behind him,” Streit said.

Young started off the home half of the second inning with back-to-back strikeouts before running into issues of his own. He hit a batter and then gave up a run-scoring single to right by Jayden Williar.

An error by shortstop Cade Hentz prolonged the inning, which was followed by walks from Aren Smith and a run-scoring walk from Trevor Murray to give Forest the lead. Mellucci added on with a run-scoring single to center field and a throwing error by third baseman Mekai Griffin pushed across three more runs.

Once the dust settled, Forest held a 6-1 lead heading into the third inning. Hentz hit a leadoff single to center and scored on a sacrifice fly from Rudman to make the score 6-2.

Things settled in as Jake Pereira came in to relieve Young for Trinity Catholic and threw a scoreless inning. Romero continued his great outing with a scoreless frame in the top of the fourth. Pereira matched Romero with a scoreless bottom of the fourth to keep Forest’s lead at 6-2.

Trinity Catholic put their rally caps on in the top of the fifth inning as Ashton Fernandez singled to left and Rudman drew a walk with one out. The walk ended Romero’s superb outing as he gave way to Brock White.

White struck out Anthony Vizzini to start his outing but gave up a run-scoring single to Preston Wright. An errant pickoff throw to first base by White allowed another run to

score for Trinity Catholic and Tundis singled home the third run of the inning.

On Tundis’ base hit, Rudman was thrown out at third base to end the rally as Forest lead shrank down to 6-5.

Smith drove in Robert Kohler on a runscoring double down the right field line to put Forest up 7-5. Trinity Catholic called upon Drew Meyer to get out of the inning with a strikeout.

Kohl Kilcrease took the mound for Forest in the top of the sixth and proceeded to strike out the side in order. Meyer held the Forest bats scoreless in the bottom half of the inning on two strikeouts and a flyout.

Kilcrease worked around a two-out walk in the seventh inning and struck out Wright to capture the 7-5 win for Forest.

The loss ended the Celtics six-game winning streak and head coach Tommy Bond said he expected his team to bounce back quickly.

“I’m a little disappointed in the way we played. They took advantage of the mistakes we made, and they were efficient by making good pitches when they had to make them. Give all the credit to Forest, they took advantage of the opportunities we presented them,” Bond said. “I think it’s going to put our feet back on the ground a little bit. We were rolling along pretty good and it’s my hope that it humbles us a little bit.”

The historic matchup’s significance was not lost on Bond as he talked about the impact of this newly formed series between two premier baseball programs.

“It’s two good teams and these kids grew up together. I’m just thankful that Coach (Streit) put us on the schedule and it was fun. That’s the way it should be, two good teams going at it,” Bond said.

Rudman led the Trinity Catholic offense with a single, two walks, a stolen base, a run batted in and a run scored. Wright, Vizzini, Tundis and Hentz all collected at least one hit each with Wright and Tundis each driving in a run.

An emotional Streit spoke with pride when talking about his team’s continued resiliency despite injuries to starters and players having to step into new roles each game against quality opponents.

“For them to be able to continue to work and not get lost and worry about who’s going to take their spot is great to see. They know we trust them, and they trust us. The trust they have for each other is like a family and they’ve started to grow as each other’s biggest fans,”

Smith led the Forest offense with two hits and two runs batted in, Mellucci added two hits and a run batted in and Porter Craig pitched in with a pair of base hits.

Kilcrease picked up the save with two scoreless innings and five strikeouts. Romero earned the win in relief with three innings, two earned runs and a strikeout.