There are three Circuit Court judge groups on the ballot for all Marion County residents this primary season, but only one set of candidates are vying for the
Group 20 seat located in Marion County: Ben Boylston and Barbara Kissner Kwatkosky.
The other two seats on the ballot, Groups 13 and 7, are in the Fifth Circuit, which encompasses Marion, Lake, Sumter, Levy, and Citrus counties. Since judges can be
transferred within the circuit, all registered voters in the five counties will have the opportunity to weigh in on the nonpartisan judicial races on the Aug. 20 election.
According to the Florida Court Administrator, Circuit Court judges handle “civil
mail in ballot is August 8!
Three sets of Circuit Court judicial candidates on the August ballot
disputes involving more than $50,000; controversies involving the estates of decedents, minors, and persons adjudicated as incapacitated; cases relating to juveniles; criminal prosecutions for all felonies; tax disputes; actions to determine the title and boundaries of real property; suits
Laundromat explosion injures four
A gas leak is suspected in the incident at the Classic Laundromat on
By
By Andy Fillmore andy@ocalagazette.com
Four people were injured and at least two neighboring stores were significantly damaged Tuesday evening, July 30, when a suspected gas leak exploded in a laundromat in a northeast Ocala shopping plaza.
Ocala Police Department officers responded around 6:18 p.m. to reports of the explosion at Classic Laundromat at 1423 N.E. 25th Ave, according to Sgt. William Christman.
Ashley Lopez, public information officer for Ocala Fire Rescue, said a deputy chief and two battalion chiefs responded to the scene.
Lopez said two of the injured persons were transported to a hospital for treatment, one on trauma alert. Two other injured persons were not transported for treatment.
Lopez said building and electrical officials were on the scene.
An OFR tower truck, one of multiple emergency vehicles dispatched, was used at one point to give a city of Ocala building inspector a look at the roof of the plaza.
Norma Cowan was working at Shell gas/Sunshine Food Mart 202 directly across the street from the laundromat when the explosion occurred. She was waiting on customers when she heard a “boom” and said “the store shook (and the explosion) shook me.”
Cowan said she first thought a car had hit the store but when she ran outside she saw the “laundromat engulfed in flames.”
A woman who sat across the street from the strip mall as fire fighters completed work identified herself as the owner of laundromat but declined an interview.
The Marion County Property Appraiser website lists the name of the strip mall as Hillside Plaza and states it was built in 1973. The website includes a list of tenants as of 2020, which shows the laundromat at the 1423 address and
NE 25th Avenue.
1427 as Frailejon Venezuelan Food and Bakery and 1421 as Boost Mobile.
According to a press release from OFR, also responding to the scene were Ocala Electric Utilities, Ocala Water Resources, Ocala Building Department, Marion County Fire Rescue and TECO Gas.
The state fire marshal and OFR Inspectors are investigating, according to the press release.
Late Wednesday afternoon, Lopez issued a news release that said the two people who were transported to the hospital following the explosion were released on Tuesday night.
“The latent part of the investigation is focused on confirming eyewitness reports and reviewing the building’s structural updates and historic permits to identify the incident’s cause. The laundromat’s dryers were powered by natural gas. The commercial structure housing Classic Laundromat was built in 1973. A laundromat has occupied the current establishment since,” she noted in the release.
Feds target Florida gun rule lawsuit
By Jim Saunders Florida News Service
The Biden administration this week urged a judge to toss out a Florida lawsuit challenging a new federal rule that will require more gun sellers to be licensed and run background checks on buyers.
U.S. Department of Justice attorneys Monday filed a 22-page motion in federal court in Tampa arguing that Florida does not have legal standing to challenge the rule, which was finalized in April by the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody filed the lawsuit May 1, in part alleging that the rule will force the state to handle a “surge” in requests for background checks. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement conducts checks.
But in the motion, Justice Department attorneys described such potential effects as “self-inflicted” because the FBI could do the background checks for the state. It said Florida “has made the voluntary decision to add a layer of bureaucracy” and, as a result, does not have standing to challenge the rule.
“The Federal Bureau of Investigation operates the federal firearms background check system and offers full background check services to states for free,” the motion said. “The majority of states rely on the FBI to conduct background checks, and those states incur no costs or burdens relating to background checks. The federal government has not forced Florida to conduct background checks; Florida has voluntarily taken on that burden.”
Florida and other Republican-led states have filed lawsuits challenging the rule, which is an outgrowth of a
See Background, page A3 Deadline to
for declaratory judgments that is, to determine the legal rights or responsibilities of parties under the terms of written instruments, laws, or regulations before a dispute arises and leads to litigation; and requests for injunctions to prevent persons or
By Caroline Brauchler caroline@ocalagazette.com
After spending nearly 30 years on death row, a man found guilty of a murder committed in the Ocala National Forest in 1994 is slated to be executed next month after Gov. Ron DeSantis signed his death warrant on Monday.
Loren Cole is on death row after being convicted of first-degree murder, armed kidnapping, armed robbery and armed sexual battery after he and another man, William Paul, murdered a man and kidnapped and assaulted a woman in the Ocala National Forest.
Paul was sentenced to life in prison and Cole was sentenced to death for John Edward’s murder and the other crimes. Despite contesting his sentence more than 10 times, Cole is now expected to be sentenced to death at 6 p.m. on Aug. 29.
“The record has been reviewed and there are no stays of execution issued by any court of competent jurisdiction in this cause. Based upon the above-referenced summary of litigation affirming the judgments and sentences of death imposed for first-degree murder, the record is legally sufficient to support the issuance of a death warrant,” wrote Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody.
On Feb. 18, 1994, Eckerd College student Pam Edwards drove to the Ocala National Forest to meet her brother John Edwards, a Florida State University student, to go camping for the weekend. It was there where they encountered Cole and Paul, who befriended the brother and sister.
The pair robbed and beat John and Pam, then killed John and kidnapped Pam, who was sexually assaulted multiple times by Cole through the following night. Cole and Paul tied up Pam and left the campgrounds. Once she was able to free herself, Pam called the police, who found John’s body and subsequently arrested the two men responsible.
In 1995, Marion County Judge William Swigert sentenced Cole to death by means of electrocution. Since then, lethal injection has become the more standard practice of execution in Florida.
“In January 2000, the Florida Legislature passed legislation that allows lethal injection as an alternative method of execution in Florida. Florida administers
Photos
Bruce Ackerman Ocala Gazette
Clockwise from above: Firefighters with Ocala Fire Rescue clear the scene of an explosion at the Classic Laundromat store on Northeast 25th Avenue in Ocala on Tuesday, July 30, 2024. A firefighter walks out of the laundromat. Bystanders look on after the explosion at the Classic Laundromat store.
Continued from page A1 executions by lethal injection or electric chair at the execution chamber located at Florida State Prison,” according to the Florida Department of Corrections.
According to Florida Statute 922.105(1), executions should be carried out by lethal injection unless the prisoner elects to be executed by electrocution.
Regardless of his sentence of execution by electrocution, Cole will now be executed instead by lethal injection, according to FDC.
“Inmate Cole’s execution is set to be carried out by lethal injection per standard protocol,” wrote FDC.
In 2023, FDC Secretary Ricky Dixon reviewed the state’s execution practices and certified that the use of the electrocution chair remains valid, and the state has the equipment, facilities and personnel to do so.
“The process will not involve unnecessary lingering or the unnecessary or wanton infliction of pain and suffering. The foremost objective of the execution by
electrocution process is a humane and dignified death,” Dixon wrote to the governor.
Dixon also noted the process should not be of long duration, should be done with transparency, and address the concerns and emotions of those involved.
In the United States, the most common method of execution is by lethal injection, but states still authorize executions through the use of electrocution, the gas chamber, hanging, and by a firing squad, according to the Death Penalty Information Center.
Cole will be the first person in Florida to be executed this year, since the most recent execution of Michael Zack, convicted in Escambia County, who was executed in October 2023.
The youngest person sentenced to death in Florida continues to be Micheal Bargo, who is awaiting execution for the 2011 murder of Seath Jackson in Marion County.
Voter alert: Steve Shives’ misleading campaign messaging
By Jennifer Hunt Murty jennifer@ocalagazette.com
In the race for the Florida House of Representatives District 27 seat, Steve Shives, the uncle of District 24 State Rep. Ryan Chamberlin, is misleading voters with doctored images in his campaign messaging. Additionally, he and Chamberlin aren’t being completely forthcoming about familial endorsements.
Shives faces Richard Gentry and Becky Sirolli in the Aug. 20 Republican primary election. House District 27 encompasses parts of Lake, Marion, and Volusia counties. The winner of the primary will face Democrat Andy Ferrari in the Nov. 5 general election. The seat is open because incumbent Republican Stan McClain is termed out and is now running for Marion County’s sole State Senate seat.
As previously reported by the “Ocala Gazette,” Shives, then 41 years old, was convicted on criminal larceny charges in South Carolina. According to the incident report obtained directly from South Carolina authorities, for months Shives could have reimbursed the owner for a part he stole from a vehicle without permission. When he failed to do so, Shives was arrested, and after trial on the larceny charges where he could have raised affirmative defenses he was convicted and sentenced to either 30 days in jail or to pay restitution.
Shives chose to pay the restitution. The “Gazette” has been unable to obtain how many days Shives was originally jailed, but it was long enough for him to change into an orange jumpsuit.
Shives reframes this theft in a recent mailer to voters making it sound like a dispute about how much to pay for a part. He leaves
out how he got the part, which is by theft. He took a part from a vehicle without the owner’s permission.
Shives was not just arrested for larceny; he was adjudicated guilty by a judge. That’s why the “Ocala Gazette” is publishing the photo of Shives in an orange jumpsuit, under our own policies. We obtained the photo directly from the South Carolina jail where he was booked.
Shives’ conviction was not for a felony. He did not lose his voting rights or his ability to run for office.
Shives is now distributing via text messages paid for by his campaign, photoshopped pictures of his opponent Gentry in an orange jumpsuit, demonstrating how “easy” it is to “put a head on an orange jumpsuit.”
Gentry, who has a 50-year legal career that includes private law practice, general counsel and lobbyist for the Florida Builder’s Association, and government attorney, has never been arrested or convicted of any crime.
The “Gazette” asked Shives how many voters received the text message with the photoshopped picture, and he said he didn’t recall.
The “Gazette” also asked Shives about a recent mailer that alleged Gentry manipulated legislation to enrich himself personally. We asked Shives to share that information, since it was not sourced in the mailer, and no details were given. Shives responded that he’d have to look into it and get back to us.
Shives’ also continually touts being endorsed by Chamberlin, without identifying Chamberlin as his nephew. Shives helped Chamberlin get elected, and now Chamberlin is trying to help Shives. The “Ocala Gazette” has obtained emails issued by Chamberlin endorsing his uncle—but there is no mention the familial relationship.
Questionable campaign tactics were also reported in Chamberlin’s 2023 campaign, which was fraught with misinformation about endorsements, financial contributions, vague character attacks on other candidates, and questionable assertions about Chamberlin’s background.
In addition to being relatives, both Chamberlin and Shives shared a campaign consultant, Brent Doster of Front Line Agency in Tallahassee. Doster is the half-brother of Stan McClain, who is running to represent Marion County in the State Senate.
Doster has been accused of representing himself as a negotiator for the Republican Party to write in candidate for Chamberlin. Another candidate Doster promotes is Matt McClain, son of Stan McClain, who was appointed to the Marion County Board of County Commissioners but who is now running for election against a write-in candidate, a move that closes voting in the race only to Republicans.
Doster’s agency, along with a PAC it operated with, settled a lawsuit filed by candidate Jose Juarez following the political antics they deployed to help Chamberlin in the Special House election in 2023, following the resignation of thenState Rep. Joe Harding.
Editor’s note: This alert is being issued to help readers recognize the difference between a legitimate jail booking photo and a photoshopped one. Also, the story sheds light on the close familial relationships involving numerous candidates for legislative seats representing Marion County. Please forward any other questionable PAC material or campaign material to tips@ ocalagazette.com. We will honor confidentiality requests.
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Judges
Continued from page A1
entities from acting in a manner that is asserted to be unlawful.”
Group 20 (Marion County)
When Judge Gary Sanders announced he would not be running for reelection at the end of his term, Kwatkosky and Boylston both filed to run for the seat.
Kwatkosky, who has been practicing law since 2003 and has been a full-time magistrate in Marion County since 2020, is the only judicial candidate who is a Marion County resident. She resigned her magistrate’s position in April in order to run in this race.
Prior to becoming a magistrate, Kwatkosky’s practice focused primarily on family law.
In a written statement to the Florida Bar, Kwatkosky outlined why her experience had prepared her for this role.
“In November 2016, I was appointed to be a General Magistrate. A General Magistrate has the responsibility to hear and decide issues, manage dockets and resolve cases. In the last seven years, I have handled family, dependency and mental health dockets, resolving issues including dissolution of marriage, custody, property distribution, alimony, placement of children, and Baker Acts. I have worked in both Marion and Sumter counties but was previously assigned to hear child support cases in all five counties of the Fifth Circuit. Between 2006 and 2024, I have heard over 70,000 cases. I have prior experience in civil litigation and as criminal defense attorney where I tried over 45 jury trials.”
In 2018, while the general magistrate on the dependency drug docket, Kwatkosky restarted the specialty court known as Early Childhood Court (ECC) in Marion County and Sumter counties. “ECC focuses on babies in 0-3 year range with services to help them develop properly,” explained Kwatkosky by email.
“I have been on the faculty of the Florida Judicial College since 2017 helping newly elected and appointed judges and general magistrates prepare for their role on the bench. I have taught classes on case management, drafting orders and overall best practices. In 2023, I received the Florida Judicial College Faculty Leadership Award Kwatkosky described serving citizens as a “privilege” and felt that “fostering trust in the court system” was an important role of the judiciary.
Kwatkosky has received endorsements from Marion County Clerk of Court Greg
Harrell, several local lawyers as well as the “Orlando Sentinel,” which wrote of Kwatkosky, “her legal experience spans many of the types of cases a circuit judge would handle. That background is the best training for a judgeship we can imagine. Even better, Kwatkosky’s background is matched by an openness to innovation, including additional socalled “problem-solving courts” that tackle justice from a different perspective. In this race, however, Kwatkosky’s preparation gives her a clear edge.”
Boylston lives in Lake County has been practicing law since 2005.
Boylston has primarily worked in criminal defense, and in a statement to the Florida Bar described the bulk of his 19-year career sitting on both the prosecution and defense side of criminal cases. Boylston said he’s spent a portion of his practice representing crime victims, local governments and drafting contracts and civil lawsuits.
“I even serve part time right now as a code enforcement special magistrate for the city of Tavares, presiding over hearings and deciding cases. Disputes between neighbors about the condition of the property next door can get pretty heated, but it’s my job to keep things calm, listen to both sides, and make people feel they got a fair hearing even if I ruled against them,” he wrote in a statement.
Boylston also said his experience in private practice has taught him that “judges have to be efficient, because it’s true that time is money.”
Boylston told the “Gazette” that he has been endorsed by State Senator Dennis Baxley, retired Marion County Judge John Futch, 5th Judicial Circuit Public Defender Mike Graves, and Lake County Sheriff Peyton Grinnell.
When the “Gazette” asked if Boylston would commute or move to Marion County, if elected- he indicated he would continue to live in Leesburg and commute. Circuit court judges are not required to live in the county they serve.
Group 7 (Hernando County)
Derek Saltsman of Webster faces Erin Daly of Brooksville for the Group 7 Circuit Court seat in Hernando County.
Saltsman has been practicing law since 2000. His primarily practice area has been in criminal defense with the public defender’s office as well as regional conflict counsel.
At one candidate forum, Saltsman indicated the practice of law he chose showed he didn’t go into the practice of law for the money because there are
Background checks
more lucrative practice areas.
Saltsman said the “black robe represents neutrality” and he believes he can deliver that.
In a statement to the Florida Bar, Saltsman wrote that being a “father of six, a deacon, Sunday school teacher, classroom teacher, coach, and practicing attorney for over 40 years makes me a more understanding, compassionate and experienced person overall.”
Additionally, Saltsman wrote that “representing people from all walks of life and socioeconomic backgrounds makes me a diverse and understanding individual. Having experience with a variety of types of law has also aided in my abilities to be able to handle anything that might come before me with an understanding of fairness and equity.”
This is a second career for Daly, who has been practicing law since 2007. She started as a bailiff at Brooklyn Supreme Court, where she served for 17 years before rising to sergeant. Right out of law school she went to work at the 5th circuit state attorney’s office for 17 years before entering private practice a year ago to practice law in the areas of criminal defense, family, and probate.
“My background as a Sergeant Court Officer (akin to a Supervising Court Deputy) from 1989-2006, trained Emergency Medical Technician and uniformed 911 first responder demonstrates my ability to remain composed and calm in any high-pressure situation. As a prospective judge, my deep respect for life-and-death situations and my extensive courtroom experience aligns with the enormous responsibility of decision-making. I will confidently uphold the law, ensuring rulings adhere to constitutional principles and legislative intent,” Daly wrote in a statement to the Florida Bar.
Daly has been endorsed by Hernando, Citrus and Marion County fire unions, Sumter County Sheriff William Farmer, Lake County Sheriff Peyton C. Grinnell, according to her Facebook page.
Group 13 (Lake County)
Incumbent Judge Heidi Davis, who started practicing law in 1998, was
developed the rule to carry out the law. When the rule was finalized, the Biden administration said it was designed to close “loopholes” in the system that requires
licensed gun dealers to run background checks. An overview posted on the White House website said “a growing number of unlicensed sellers continue to sell firearms for profit to complete strangers they meet at gun shows
appointed to the bench in 2010 by thenGov. Charlie Crist. She faces challenger Zack McCormick.
“I have effectively managed my docket, consistently having some of the lowest docket numbers in my jurisdiction. I have never had to respond to a JQC (Judicial Qualifications Commission) or Bar complaint. I have handled over 18,000 cases with fewer than 10 successful appeals. I served as the county’s administrative judge from 2018-2022 during the height of Covid. I was the first female judge to serve in Hernando County and am currently the first and only female Circuit Court judge in Lake County. I have the knowledge, experience and temperament to continue to serve my community with dedication and dignity,” Davis wrote in a statement to the Florida Bar.
During candidate forums, Davis indicated she had received endorsements from both Fifth Circuit State Attorney William Gladson and Fifth Circuit Public Defender Michael Graves, proof that “it’s fairness you’ll get in my court.”
The Orlando Sentinel also endorsed reelection of Davis.
McCormick started practicing law in 2010. He interned for the state attorney’s office during law school and then went to work for the public defender’s office for approximately four years before moving on to private practice focused primarily on civil litigation for the past 10 years. He feels his experience in civil litigation and as a sole practitioner sets him apart. For the last five years, McCormick has sat on or chaired a Judicial Nominating Commission (JNC). He indicated this experience has led him to believe he would be a good candidate. “The number of judges who have litigated civil claims in private practice are relatively few and many of the complexities and nuances associated with such cases can be challenging to deal with to the uninitiated. As such, the bench would be well complimented to have such addition(s),” he wrote in a statement to the Florida Bar.
and online marketplaces, which has been a critical gap in the background check laws.”
In part, the rule changed a definition of being “engaged in the business” as a firearms dealer who needs to be licensed, according to Monday’s motion. The revised definition applies to a “person who devotes time, attention, and labor to dealing in firearms as a regular course of trade or business to predominantly earn a profit through the repetitive purchase and resale of firearms. The term shall not include a person who makes occasional sales, exchanges, or purchases of firearms for the enhancement of a personal collection or for a hobby, or who sells all or part of the person’s personal collection of firearms.”
Justice Department attorneys argued in the motion that the definition closely tracks the 2022 law. But Florida’s lawsuit said the rule goes “far beyond” the law and violates what is known as the federal Administrative Procedure Act.
As an example, the lawsuit partially quoted federal law and said the rule “obliterates the
exception to the definition of ‘dealer’ for ‘a person who makes occasional sales, exchanges, or purchases of firearms for the enhancement of a personal collection or for a hobby, or who sells all or part of his personal collection of firearms.’”
“Many gun owners buy and then resell firearms,” the lawsuit said. “Sometimes they do so only to add to their personal collection. … (However), sometimes increasing the value of that collection is one of their motives—just as collectors of other items hope their collections will gain value and potentially be resold for a profit.”
Standing is an initial threshold that judges consider in whether lawsuits should move forward. While Monday’s motion focused on the standing issue, Justice Department attorneys also called the state’s arguments about the Administrative Procedure Act “meritless.”
The case is assigned to U.S. District Judge Charlene Edwards Honeywell, who had not scheduled a hearing as of Wednesday morning, according to an online court docket.
Barbara Kissner Kwatkosky
Ben Boylston
Erin Daly
Heidi Davis
Zack McCormick
Derek Saltsman
OCALA TO REFUND UTILITY DEPOSITS FOR OEU CUSTOMERS
Ocala Electric Utility
residential customers will receive a credit to their account and a reduced bill starting in August after the Ocala City Council passed an ordinance to return customer’s initial utility deposit.
In August, the city will return over $1.89 million to 10,820 OEU customers. The ordinance, passed in January, will allow the city to provide refunds from time to time at its own discretion.
“Revising the procedure for the maintenance and refund of utility service deposits…is intended to and does protect and promote the health, safety and welfare of the citizens of the city of Ocala,”
according to the ordinance. Customers who have been services by OEU for two years and shown a satisfactory payment record are eligible for the credit. They must have a payment history with fewer than two penalties, no returned checks and no delinquencies for a year before the refund.
If a customer isn’t currently eligible to receive the credit, they may become eligible once they complete one year of satisfactory payments.
For more information, please contact the customer service department at (352) 629-2489.
TIME NAMES WORLD EQUESTRIAN CENTER ON
LIST OF BEST DESTINATIONS
By Caroline Brauchler caroline@ocalagazette.com
The World Equestrian Center was named on TIME magazine’s 2024 list of the world’s greatest places.
The list highlights 100 destinations to visit and stay around the world, 50 of which are hotels and resorts. In the United States, WEC was one of only 13 hotels to make the list.
The story showcases WEC’s many amenities as the largest equestrian complex in the world, including its biannual hunter/jumper series and Saturday Grand Prix competitions.
“Other offerings include the Equestrian Hotel (older and even posher, with 248 rooms overlooking the 128,000-square-foot Grand Outdoor Arena), multiple pools, luxury toy and clothing boutiques, and restaurants that range from a French-style patisserie and gastro pub with live music to a chophouse, where a master sommelier guides diners through a chateau-worthy wine list topping 6,000 bottles,” writes Terry Ward in the excerpt.
WEC’s newest addition, The Riding Academy hotel, is ready for visitors to stay in its 390 equestrian-themed rooms after its March 2024 grand opening.
“To be recognized among some of the world’s most magnificent properties is truly an honor for us,” said Leah Tong, Director of Marketing & Brand Strategy for WEC. “This spotlight is a testament to the efforts of so many individuals who work to uphold our standards of quality, class, and distinction, making World Equestrian Center, Ocala a world-class destination for discerning travelers from all over the globe.” The 2024 TIME World’s Greatest Places list will be featured in the August 5, 2024, issue of TIME, available on newsstands beginning Friday, July 26.
Heritage Trail to open in August
By Caroline Brauchler caroline@ocalagazette.com
The new Heritage Trail in West Ocala will open at last with a ribbon cutting taking place on Aug. 5 after years in the making.
The West Silver Springs Heritage Trail Park, or Heritage Trail, is part of the West Ocala CRA project. The trail features art installations of prominent historical West Ocala Citizens, by artist Charles Eady.
The project was first conceptualized in 2018. Construction spanned from March 2020 until July 2024 to complete site work and the installation of amenities, infrastructures and artwork, said city of Ocala spokesperson Gregory Davis.
“The cost-to-date for the West Ocala CRA project is $308,772.66. This includes design, construction, streetlights, and artwork. Installing lighting for the panels will be done at a future date,” Davis said. “FDOT provided technical support only. FDOT entered a memorandum of understanding with the city to allow for enhanced landscaping in the State Road 40 right of way.”
The artwork features a number of prominent figures, including Dr. Richard Hughes of the ANTA Hospital, grocery store owner Austin Long, Madison Street Principal Lillian Bryant, Dr. James Ponder of Mercy Hospital, and the owner of the Miss Pearl Café.
The trail will be open for visitors 24 hours a day. The trail doubles as a sidewalk that is accessible by the public, Davis said.
Groundbreaking held for Heagy-Burry Boat Ramp project
By Caroline Brauchler caroline@ocalagazette.com
Shovels hit the soil on July 25 as a groundbreaking was held for the Heagy-Burry Boat Ramp project, after 14 years in the making.
The project originally started in October of 2012 but faced setbacks due to funding changes with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). A $2.23 million bid was awarded to BDI Marine Contractors LLC, a Hobe Sound firm, in June to begin construction.
The improvements for the park include building a boat ramp, floating dock system, restroom, parking lot, retaining wall, concrete driveway, stormwater infrastructure, sidewalks and landscaping, according to the Marion County Parks &Recreation Department.
“This groundbreaking included several members of the Marion County community. Marion County elected officials, Parks & Recreation staff, Marion County Tourist Development, Florida Wildlife Commission representatives, and construction partners Kimley-Horn,
Tedder Boat Ramp Systems, and BDI Marine,” according to Parks & Recreation.
The park, at 5040 NW 191st Place, offers amenities such as the boat ramps, fishing, monofilament collection, picnic tables and restrooms. The public-use ramp provides access to Orange Lake, a “resource-based recreation destination for hunting and fishing, generating an estimated $2 million in economic impact each year based on information provided by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service,” the department noted.
“The improvements made would increase boating access and accessibility to Orange Lake in Marion County, comply with current ADA standards and provide safe access to Orange Lake,’’ according to the county. “Additionally, an improved park and boat ramp in this part of Marion County will enhance the local community by providing a premier venue for outdoor recreation, sport fishing, and tournaments.”
Including the Heagy–Burry Park Boat Ramp, there are seven improvement projects for marine areas in progress that FWC is funding across the state of Florida.
“These improvements will provide boaters enhanced access to the lake, increase Marion County’s ecotourism
opportunities, and positively impact our local, regional, and state economies,” according to Parks & Recreation.
File photo: Keith Green, a lineman with Ocala Electric Utility, works on power lines from a bucket truck at the Eugene Dearmin substation off Southeast 36th Avenue in Ocala on Wednesday, Sept. 1, 2021. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2021.
[City of Ocala]
[Marion County Parks and Recreation]
File photo: The sun sets as people gather for a VIP sneak peek of the new World Equestrian Center in Ocala on Wednesday, Dec. 9, 2020. [Bruce Ackerman/ Ocala Gazette] 2020.
33 arrested for internet crimes against children
Several local agencies worked together on the Operation Summertime Blues sweep.
By Andy Fillmore andy@ocalagazette.com
Marion County Sheriff
Billy Woods held a press conference Tuesday, July 30, to announce the arrest of 33 men for internet crimes against children in a recent six-day sting called Operation Summertime Blues.
The defendants include a former Kids Central employee and another man who finds youth are “easy targets.” Woods said at least two of the defendants were “illegal aliens.”
Woods said officers posed as youth ages 13 to 15 and went “fishing” for offenders.
An MCSO spokesperson said after the press conference that officers posing as juveniles had responses from defendants “in minutes” after their posts.
The sting took place between July 22 and July 28.
The Ocala Police Department, Chiefland Police Department, Florida Department of Law Enforcement and Office of Homeland Security were also part of the “unfortunately successful” sting operation, Woods said.
Among the defendants arrested and held on no bond basis was Alberto Quiroz ,32, of southwest Ocala. Quiroz allegedly responded to an officer
What a blast!
posing as a 14-year-old girl on a computer app where the two discussed sex and set up a meeting at a local restaurant.
Quiroz was arrested at the meeting site and identification cards indicated he was employed by Kids Central, a Department of Children and Families contractor, the arrest report states.
The defendant told officers he did work at Kids Central and claimed he came to the restaurant to be sure the child “was not one of the children whom he worked with at his agency,” according to an arrest report.
Quiroz was charged with three felonies, including traveling to meet after computer
Florida wins again in America’s Best-Looking Cruiser contest with shot of Delta IV Heavy rocket background.
By Andy Fillmore andy@ocalagazette.com
Ablack and tan Florida
Highway Patrol 2019 Dodge Challenger has again snagged bragging rights for the Sunshine State in the America’s Best-Looking Cruiser contest.
A photo of the cruiser backdropped by the final launch of a Delta IV Heavy rocket was voted to first place over photos of state trooper vehicles from 48 other states.
According to the American Association of State Troopers, the sponsor of the annual competition, the FHP cruiser garnered 28,995 votes to take first place over the Kentucky cruiser, which had 26,091 votes. Third place went to Nevada with 17,511 and fourth place went to West Virginia with 14,562 votes, according to AAST voting results.
This year’s winning photo was taken April 28 at the Space Launch Complex at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station by photographer Sean Stoltz at the moment of the final launch of the United Launch Alliance Delta IV Heavy, which has lifted national security payloads for more than six
decades, the press release stated.
A photo of an FHP cruiser with a large alligator in the foreground took first place in last year’s contest.
This year’s winning FHP cruiser photo will be featured on the 2025 AAST calendar. This is the 11th year for the calendar and the 13 top voted state cruiser photos will be featured.
The other states to be pictured on the calendar, in order, are North Carolina, Mississippi, Texas, Arkansas, Michigan, Georgia, Alabama, Iowa and Nebraska.
An AAST Facebook post gives the complete results and states that 276,000 votes were placed overall and that the AAST social media site had 1.2 million visitors during the nationwide competition, which ran from July 15-29. Proceeds from the calendar sales will support the AAST Foundation, which provides educational scholarships for member troopers’ dependents, according to a Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles press release.
To learn about, go to statetrooper.org
use to lure a child.
Kimberly McGlothern, interim director of community affairs for Kids Central, Inc. wrote in an email that the agency is aware of the arrest “of a former employee.”
“We want to assure the public that we are taking this matter very seriously,” she stated.
“Kids Central is required to conduct thorough background checks and received an eligible background screening result prior to employment. The individual was terminated when Kids Central learned of the arrest,” McGlothern’s email stated.
“The safety and well-being of the children in our system of care is our top priority,” McGlothern wrote.
Oscar Dejesus, 25, of Bowling Green, Florida, set a meeting at a local convenience store in southwest Ocala with an officer posing as a 14-year-old girl for sex acts for $100, according to an arrest document. He had a firearm in his vehicle during the meeting.
Upon his arrest, Dejesus admitted to traveling to meet a supposed juvenile to “act upon his sexual urges,” the arrest document indicates.
Dejesus told officers he had “numerous sexual encounters” with people in Florida, including children under 16. He “made mention of having sexual interest in children because they are easy targets,” according to an arrest document.
Dejesus stands charged with five felonies, including human trafficking of a believed minor and traveling to meet after using a computer to lure a child.
Francisco Alvarez-Tello, 27, had sexually explicit computer communication with an MCSO
detective posing as “Stevie” a girl of about 14, who Alvarez-Tello contacted through a post on the escort app “Skip the Games,” according to an arrest document written by an Ocala Police Department corporal who also is an Office of Homeland Security Task Force officer.
The arrest document states Alvarez-Tello traveled to a gas station in the 3200 block of West Silver Springs Boulevard to meet “Stevie” but was met instead by law enforcement.
Alvarez-Tello had no valid driver’s license, had a firearm in his possession and was found to be an “illegal alien,” the arrest document indicates .
Alvarez-Tello faces multiple charges, including travel to meet after using a computer to lure a child.
Alvarez-Tello said the situation leading to the arrest was a “set up” and when asked by an officer why he would drive to “meet a minor for sexual contact,” he said he “took a gamble,” the arrest report indicates.
Woods said internet sex criminals are lurking 24 hours a day and that parents should take note.
“Parents, in just one afternoon of this operation we arrested nine people. Nine people that traveled to meet with a child for sex. Your children are their prey. Know what your child is doing on social media and online gaming,” Woods stated in a press release.
More arrests are expected as a result of Operation Summertime Blues, according to the MCSO press release.
Marion County Sheriff Billy Woods, at the podium, led a press conference on Tuesday, July 30, which included representatives from a number of other agencies, to provide details about Operation Summertime Blues, in which 33 men were arrested for internet crimes against children. [Andy Fillmore]
The FHP contest entry photo by photographer Sean Stoltz was taken at the Space Launch Complex at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station on April 28.
Florida’s Teacher of the Year awarded, MCPS teacher named runner-up
OPINION
By Caroline Brauchler caroline@ocalagazette.com
AMarion County teacher made it all the way to the state-level competition for Teacher of the Year and is coming home as a runner-up with $20,000 in prize money. The winner, from Hernando County, was announced on July 25.
Jennifer Brown, a mathematics teacher from Forest High School, was one of five finalists in the entire state for this year’s Florida Teacher of the Year. The award went to Jaime Suarez, a mathematics teacher at the Challenger K-8 School of Science and Mathematics in Hernando County.
Before the award was announced, all five finalists received $20,000 in prize money from Gov. Ron DeSantis for the accomplishment. After winning the Marion County Teacher of the Year, Brown was also awarded with a free three-year lease for
a 2024 Subaru Outback from Jenkins Auto Group.
“All finalists have demonstrated a deep passion for teaching and have made a significant impact in their respective classrooms and school communities. Their commitment to nurturing young minds and inspiring fellow educators has set them apart as exemplary role models for both students and teachers,” said the Florida Department of Education in a press release.
Brown has been teaching for 21 years and taught in the Marion County school district for the last nine years. She came to Forest High School in 2020 and teaches both geometry and trigonometry.
“Teachers don’t get acknowledged very often for the work that we do and so it’s really something to hear other people appreciate what I do,” Brown said after winning Marion County Teacher of the Year.
“That’s the biggest thing, just the acknowledgment that this brings for education in Marion County.”
Firefighters fight Marion County’s opioid problem
By Lucas Winter, MD
The men and women of Ocala Fire Rescue are fighting a new battle— Marion County’s opioid crisis.
The Coordinated Opioid Recovery (CORE) program is an initiative aimed at enrolling citizens who call 911 after an overdose on opioids, such as heroine, fentanyl, or oxycodone. The program is a multi-county effort by emergency medical services agencies aimed to limit such deaths in Florida, which has become a more recognized and rapidly evolving epidemic in the last decade. As of May 2023, Marion County is now one of the few counties participating.
Emergency Medical Services captain with OFR, Jessie Blair, states, “the goal is to capture people when they’ve overdosed and bridge their care until they can get into a clinic to get addiction services.” Blair, along with other firefighters with the task force, does this by visiting
A
By Andy Fillmore andy@ocalagazette.com
Army veteran Derek Ingram received a solid “Thank you for your service” on July 26—and it should last for decades to come.
Ingram served in the Army in the Vietnam era, from 1974 to 1976, and again in the 1990s in Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm during
these patients after they’ve been taken to the emergency room and starting them on buprenorphine, a medication that decreases cravings and allows patients to be safely weaned in a way similar to methadone. For the following week, he or his colleages will bring these patients a dose of buprenorphine daily until they are seen at an addiction treatment clinic, such as Park Place Behavioral Health Care. The rest of their road to recovery begins there.
Frank Fraunfelter, an emergency medicine physician and medical director for OFR as well as Marion County Fire Rescue, notes although most people are enrolled after overdosing, this is not a requirement.
“Intervening after they’ve called 911 is our way of getting them into the system. You have a one in seven chance of dying with each overdose here. By starting these patients on buprenorphine after leaving the ER, you reduce the overall odds of dying,” Fraunfelter said.
Emily Martin, a person who struggled
the Gulf War. His military occupations have included nuclear, biological and chemical specialist and forward element medic. He suffers a disability related to his service in the Gulf War.
Ingram, 67, a native of Washington, D.C., who previously lived in Maryland, has resided at a Spruce Creek South home with his wife, Latanya, for two and a half years. He said paying for a new roof for his house, which
with opioid addiction from the age of 12, has successfully completed the program. She emphasizes how it rescued her at her self-described lowest point and allowed her to become a productive member of her community.
“If it weren’t for everyone behind the CORE program, I don’t know if I would be alive today or with the quality of life I have now. I have my kids and family back, a job I love, and I am surrounded by people who care for me,” Martin said.
The program has helped many other people. In six months after beginning, around 100 individual patients had been enrolled, with an estimated 70% of them still being engaged and following up with their appointments. This is a marked level of success compared to other Florida counties that participate in the program.
A secondary goal is to prevent overuse of resources as EMS crews are often overburdened by 911 calls.
“Success with the program means we’re
county records indicate was built in 1991, was not in their budget. He said he “stumbled” upon the Owens Corning Roof Deployment project while doing research online.
Through the project, Ingram’s home was given a complete re-roof job by an Owens Corning Platinum Contractor, Scott’s Roofing of Tavares. The nationwide roofing project is meant “to show gratitude and honor the veterans who served our country and the families who support them.” It has provided more than 575 military members with new roofs since 2016, according to a project press release.
“Words can’t express it. I’m overwhelmed, happy, blessed and thankful,” Ingram said as he watched the roofers
progress with the job.
running less calls for frequent overdoses. This saves the taxpayer money,” said Blair.
Fraunfelter echoes this point as it also means less ER visits and hospitalizations from the complications of narcotic use, particularly with patients who inject opioids.
“We’ll see less abscesses, endocarditis (infection inside the heart) requiring surgery to replace the heart valves, and overall blood infections. Eventually, we will see a healthier community. That’s our hope,” he said.
Funding for the CORE program comes from the $8 billion settlement against Purdue Pharma in 2020, in which the company agreed to reimburse state and local governments after deceptively marketing opioids and fueling the epidemic. If you or a loved one is struggling with opioid addiction and is in need of assistance, call (352) 351-1111 for further inquiry into enrollment, which does not require having overdosed to qualify.
Owens Corning, Habitat for Humanity International and selected Owens Corning Platinum contractors have joined forces in the Roof Deployment project. The Owens Corning Foundation supplied the roofing materials and Scott’s Roofing supplied the labor.
Tyler Scott, one of the owners of Scott’s Roofing, which was founded by his grandfather, said the 3,100 square foot “complete reroof” job was “down to the decking” and that any wood would be replaced as necessary. The roof will be nailed down to 130 mph requirements and the crew of 12 was expected to take from seven to eight hours to finish the job in one day, he said. Scott said the donated roof would have cost in the range of $12,000.
Dave Layman, chief financial officer of Habitat for Humanity of Marion County, said the process began when
Ingram contacted Habitat for Humanity International.
“We love our veterans,” Layman said.
For more information about the project, go to owenscorning.com/ roofdeployment
U.S. Army veteran Derek Ingram, foreground, indicates a “Giving Back to Those Who Served” sign as workers with Scott’s Roofing
Forest High School mathematics teacher Jennifer Brown (second to right) stands on stage as title for Florida Teacher of the Year is awarded to Hernando County teacher Jaime Suarez on July 25. [Florida Department of Education]
Post-storm rebuilding costs could pose problems
By Jim Turner Florida News Servcie
As the Atlantic Ocean shows signs of heating up, potentially fueling damaging hurricanes, a former state and national disaster chief warned Tuesday of working-class Floridians being priced out of communities in post-storm rebuilding.
Craig Fugate, a disasterplanning consultant who previously served as director of the Florida Division of Emergency Management and administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, said financing and the availability of insurance will continue to be issues for some
people trying to rebuild.
“I don’t think it’s going to slow down rebuilding, because it’s not really slowing things down in Fort Myers,” Fugate said, referring to rebuilding after Hurricane Ian slammed into the Fort Myers area in 2022. “What it’s doing is causing an affordable housing crisis ... people like police officers, school teachers, administrators, they’re being priced out of your communities because they can’t either afford the cost of rebuilding, and if they can, they can’t afford the cost of insuring if they have to get a mortgage.”
Fugate, who spoke Tuesday to the Capital Tiger Bay Club in Tallahassee, served as director of the Florida Division of Emergency Management from 2001 to 2009,
including during the devastating 2004 and 2005 hurricane seasons.
He then served nearly eight years as FEMA administrator.
Fugate became known for the Waffle House Index, an unofficial metric named after the restaurant chain. It gauged the severity of storms by whether Waffle House restaurants were open and what was available on menus. While it started in Florida, the index drew more national attention when Fugate and FEMA responded to a deadly
tornado that hit Joplin, Mo., in 2011.
During his speech Tuesday, Fugate credited Florida officials for taking steps to address rising sea levels, despite controversial legislation this year that removed the phrase “climate change” from parts of laws.
“They’re actually one of the more progressive states in dealing
with the impacts of climate change,” Fugate said. “If you look at the insurance ratings for building codes, Florida’s No. 1 or No. 2 every time. So, there’s this tendency, I think, to get caught up between what are called rhetoric and actions. And the rhetoric sometimes doesn’t always match what you’re doing.”
Fugate said Florida has been forward looking, noting the state’s Citizens Property Insurance is phasing in a flood-insurance requirement for policyholders, a lesson learned after Hurricane Ian caused massive flooding.
“They’re actually taking very smart, appropriate steps to address the issue of changing climate events,” Fugate said.
Fugate’s appearance came as the National Hurricane Center on Tuesday advised people in the Greater Antilles, the Bahamas, and the southeastern U.S. to keep an eye on the progress of a storm system moving in the Atlantic.
While it had not forecast rapid intensification, the hurricane center put Florida in the potential path of the system.
Dry air over the system on Tuesday was limiting rain, but conditions could lead to development of a tropical depression later this week over warm Atlantic waters. The chance of formation over the next week was upped from 50 percent on Monday to 60 percent Tuesday morning.
Former state and federal emergency-management chief Craig Fugate speaks Tuesday in Tallahassee. [Mike Exline]
Court to move quickly on abortion ‘statement’
By Jim Saunder Florida News Service
With time running short before the November election, the Florida Supreme Court on Monday signaled that it will move quickly to resolve two cases about a “financial impact statement” that will appear on the ballot with a proposed constitutional amendment on abortion rights.
The Supreme Court issued orders that said it has “expedited” proceedings in the cases, which involve a battle between the Floridians Protecting Freedom political committee and state officials about the financial impact statement. The political committee is leading efforts to try to pass the ballot initiative to enshrine abortion rights in the state Constitution.
Floridians Protecting Freedom filed a lawsuit in April arguing that an initial financial-impact statement for the amendment was outdated and needed to be revised. A Leon County circuit judge agreed, but the state took the case to the 1st District Court of Appeal.
Amid the appeal, House Speaker Paul Renner, R-Palm Coast, and Senate President Kathleen Passidomo, R-Naples,
directed a state panel to revise the statement. But Floridians Protecting Freedom contends the revised statement is politicized and inaccurate.
Also, the revised statement led the 1st District Court of Appeal to rule that the case about the initial statement was moot.
Floridians Protecting Freedom last week filed a petition at the Supreme Court arguing that Renner and Passidomo did not have authority to direct the state panel to revise the financial impact statement. The political committee’s attorneys contended that the statement could have only been revised after a court order, not because of direction from state leaders.
The political committee also separately filed a notice that was a first step in asking the Supreme Court to review the 1st District Court of Appeal’s decision that the lawsuit about the initial statement was moot.
In the orders Monday, the Supreme Court gave the state until 5 p.m. Friday to respond to the petition about the authority of Renner and Passidomo. It also gave Floridians Protecting Freedom until 5 p.m. Friday to file a brief in the case about the 1st District Court of Appeal’s mootness decision.
Financial impact statements, which
usually receive little attention, provide estimated effects of proposed constitutional amendments on government revenues and the state budget. They are crafted by a panel of economists known as the Financial Impact Estimating Conference.
The panel released an initial statement for the proposed abortion amendment in November 2023. But on April 1, the Supreme Court issued a ruling that allowed a six-week abortion limit to take effect in the state.
In its lawsuit filed in April, Floridians Protecting Freedom argued that the November financial-impact statement needed to be revised because it was outdated after the Supreme Court ruling.
Leon County Circuit Judge John Cooper ordered the Financial Impact Estimating Conference to draft a new version. But state lawyers appealed, contending that Cooper did not have legal authority to issue such an order.
The Tallahassee-based appeals court never decided whether Cooper had such authority because it said the case was moot after the Financial Impact Estimating Conference issued the revised statement this month.
The proposed constitutional amendment will appear on the November
ballot as Amendment 4. It says, in part, that no “law shall prohibit, penalize, delay, or restrict abortion before viability or when necessary to protect the patient’s health, as determined by the patient’s healthcare provider.”
Gov. Ron DeSantis and other state Republican leaders are fighting the proposed amendment. Representatives of DeSantis and the state House on the Financial Impact Estimating Conference spearheaded controversial revisions to the financial impact statement.
In part, the revised statement says there is “uncertainty about whether the amendment will require the state to subsidize abortions with public funds. Litigation to resolve those and other uncertainties will result in additional costs to the state government and state courts that will negatively impact the state budget. An increase in abortions may negatively affect the growth of state and local revenues over time. Because the fiscal impact of increased abortions on state and local revenues and costs cannot be estimated with precision, the total impact of the proposed amendment is indeterminate.”
The November ballot will be set after Florida’s Aug. 20 primary elections.
DeSantis seeks to nix Worrell Case
By Jim Saunder Florida News Service
Gov. Ron DeSantis
is trying to end a legal challenge to his controversial decision last year
to suspend Orlando-area State Attorney Monique Worrell. State lawyers Friday filed a 25-page motion arguing that a federal judge should dismiss a lawsuit filed by two residents and the group Florida Rising
Together that alleges DeSantis violated voters’ due-process and First Amendment rights in the suspension.
The motion makes a series of arguments, including that the plaintiffs lack legal standing and
that DeSantis did not violate federal constitutional rights with his decision.
“Obviously, it does not offend the U.S. Constitution for states to authorize suspending and removing state elected officials for neglect of duty and other misconduct or incapacity,” the motion said.
Also, the lawyers for DeSantis wrote that “for the governor’s suspension of Ms. Worrell to violate their substantive due process rights, plaintiffs would have to possess a fundamental right to see their chosen candidate remain in office once elected. But plaintiffs still cannot cite a single case (a legal precedent) for this proposition.”
Arguing that DeSantis’ suspension of Worrell “disenfranchised” voters, attorneys for plaintiffs David Caicedo and Rajib Chowdhury and Florida Rising Together filed a revised version of the lawsuit June 28 in Orlando after U.S. District Judge Julie Sneed in May dismissed an earlier version.
DeSantis last August issued an executive order suspending Worrell, a Democrat who was elected in 2020 in the 9th Judicial Circuit, which is made up of Orange and Osceola counties. Among other things, the executive order alleged that Worrell’s policies prevented or discouraged assistant state attorneys from seeking minimum mandatory sentences
SHERIFFS, POLICE CHIEFS OPPOSE POT INITIATIVE
By Florida News Service
Pointing to issues such as traffic safety, the Florida Sheriffs Association and the Florida Police Chiefs Association on Tuesday announced opposition to a proposed constitutional amendment that would allow use of recreational marijuana.
The sheriffs association said its members approved a resolution opposing the initiative during a meeting last week.
“The well-being and health of the citizens of Florida are threatened through the legalization and normalization of recreational marijuana,” sheriffs association President Bill Prummell, the Charlotte County sheriff, said in a
prepared statement.
“Our priority is the safety and security of our communities, and the data clearly shows that legalization leads to increased public health issues, road safety concerns, and a rise in youth marijuana use.
We must take a stand to protect our citizens, especially our youth, from the negative impacts of marijuana.” Similarly,
Florida Police Chiefs Association
President Charles Vazquez, chief of the Tampa International Airport Police Department, issued a statement that said based on “the experience of other states, we know that law enforcement resources, as well as public health and other governmental services, will be taxed
with new call volume due to the nature of marijuana impairment and its relationship to criminality, including victimization, and mental health.”
But Smart & Safe Florida, a political committee leading efforts to pass the proposed constitutional amendment, disputes arguments that allowing recreational use of marijuana would lead to increased crime and issues such as traffic-safety problems.
“While marijuana can impair driving abilities, the claim that legalization leads to significantly more impaired driving fatalities is not supported by evidence,” information on the Smart & Safe Florida committee website says.
for gun crimes and drugtrafficking offenses.
But the revised lawsuit, which is the target of Friday’s motion to dismiss, said that in “following through on her campaign promises to reform the criminal legal system, Ms. Worrell was doing nothing other than meeting her professional and ethical obligations and exercising her prosecutorial discretion.”
The lawsuit seeks to have DeSantis’ executive order declared unconstitutional.
“Governor DeSantis abrogated plaintiffs’ associational and expressional First Amendment rights when he abused the suspension authority accorded to him under Florida law,” the revised lawsuit said.
The Florida Supreme Court, in a separate case, upheld the suspension in a June 6 decision.
Meanwhile, Worrell is again running for state attorney in the November election. Among her competitors is Andrew Bain, a former Orange County judge who was appointed by DeSantis to replace Worrell. Bain is running without party affiliation.
If the lawsuit is not dismissed, it appears unlikely the legal issues will be resolved before the election. Sneed on Monday scheduled a trial to start in May 2025, according to a court docket.
“Proper education, enforcement of impaired driving laws, and investment in public safety measures can mitigate any potential increase in marijuana-related traffic accidents.”
The initiative, which will appear on the November ballot as Amendment 3, says, in part, that it would allow “adults 21 years or older to possess, purchase, or use marijuana products and marijuana accessories for non-medical personal consumption by smoking, ingestion, or otherwise.”
Voters in 2016 passed a constitutional amendment that allowed medical marijuana.
File photo: Monique Worrell, the State Attorney for the Ninth Judicial Circuit in Orlando, speaks during the NAACP 5114 Marion County Branch 41st Freedom Fund and Awards Banquet at the Klein Conference Center at the College of Central Florida in Ocala on Friday, April 28, 2023. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2023.
Plaintiffs push back in trans treatment fight
By Jim Saunder Florida News Service
Attorneys for a transgender man and parents of trans children urged a federal appeals court Monday to reject a request that would allow Florida to restrict treatments for gender dysphoria while a legal battle continues.
The state on July 17 filed a motion at the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals seeking a stay of a ruling by U.S. District Judge Robert Hinkle that blocked restrictions Florida imposed last year on treatments for transgender people.
The motion, if granted, would allow the restrictions to be in effect while the appeals court considers the state’s underlying appeal of Hinkle’s decision—a process that likely will take months.
But in a 46-page response filed Monday, attorneys for plaintiffs in the case argued the Atlanta-based appeals court should reject the motion, saying state officials did “not even attempt to meet their burden of showing that the district court’s (Hinkle’s) careful, detailed, and well-supported findings are ‘clearly erroneous.’”
“Neither defendants (state officials) nor the public will suffer any harm from allowing transgender Floridians
to maintain the same access to medical care that they had for many years before 2023,” the response said. “In contrast, the trial evidence demonstrated the real and serious harms that plaintiffs and class members will continue to suffer if they are unable to access treatments that have been shown to be safe and effective in relieving the symptoms of gender dysphoria.”
The plaintiffs’ attorneys also pointed to what they described as Hinkle’s “detailed and well-supported findings establishing that the legislative and rulemaking processes were infected by animus and an improper purpose to single out transgender people for adverse treatment.”
Hinkle last month prohibited state health officials from enforcing the 2023 law and regulations, which would bar the use of puberty blockers and hormone therapy to treat children for gender dysphoria and make it harder for transgender adults to access care.
In the 101-page ruling, Hinkle wrote that “gender identity is real” and likened opposition to transgender people to racism and misogyny.
“The state of Florida can regulate as needed but cannot flatly deny transgender individuals safe and effective medical treatment—treatment with medications routinely provided to others with the
state’s full approval so long as the purpose is not to support the patient’s transgender identity,” he wrote.
Florida quickly appealed and, in the motion for a stay, disputed Hinkle’s conclusions about issues such as animus toward transgender people. The motion requested a stay “as soon as practicable.”
“The state suffers irreparable harm because its laws have been enjoined,” the motion said. “And the state and its citizens face the prospect of risky, possible ineffective, and certainly life-altering treatments being administered.”
Florida and other Republicancontrolled states have approved numerous laws and regulations in recent years focused on transgender people. One of the highest-profile issues has been restricting use of puberty blockers and hormone therapy for minors with gender dysphoria.
The federal government defines gender dysphoria clinically as “significant distress that a person may feel when sex or gender assigned at birth is not the same as their identity.”
In addition to banning puberty blockers and hormone therapy for minors with gender dysphoria, the 2023 Florida law also affected transgender adults. It allowed only physicians—not nurse practitioners— to approve hormone therapy and barred
the use of telehealth for new prescriptions. Opponents argued that the restrictions severely reduced access to hormone therapy for adults.
Gov. Ron DeSantis’ administration has long disputed arguments about the effectiveness of gender-dysphoria treatments, particularly for minors.
“Letting the state’s laws stand pending an appeal makes the most sense,” the motion for a stay said. “Whether the state chooses to use a hammer or a scalpel to regulate gender-dysphoria treatments is a matter for the state to decide.”
But attorneys for the plaintiffs in the class-action lawsuit argued in Monday’s response that state officials “offer no evidence of anyone in Florida receiving inadequate care or suffering adverse consequences, nor do they provide any evidence suggesting that minors would be better off receiving no medical treatment at all than the same care that was available until 2023.”
“Lastly, the public does not have an interest in preventing transgender people from accessing needed medical care,” the response said. “Nor does the public have an interest in the state’s enforcement of an unconstitutional law.”
States scramble after Title IX ruling
By Jim Saunder Florida News Service
Hours after a U.S. district judge ruled against them, Florida and three other states late Tuesday asked an appeals court to temporarily halt a new federal rule about sex-based discrimination in education programs.
Attorneys for Florida, Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina and other plaintiffs scrambled after U.S. District Judge Annemarie Carney Axon on Tuesday issued a 122-page decision that rejected a request for a preliminary injunction against the rule, which deals with Title IX, a landmark 1972 law that bars discrimination in education programs based on sex.
The court fight focuses heavily on a change that would extend Title IX regulations to apply to discrimination based on gender identity. The rule, finalized in April, is slated to take effect Thursday, attorneys for the plaintiffs wrote in the lateTuesday filing at the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals.
The filing seeks an “administrative injunction” to temporarily halt federal officials from enforcing the rule while the plaintiffs’ attorneys prepare a more-detailed request to put
STATE
the rule on hold. The states contend that the rule could force them to do such things as allow transgender students to use bathrooms that don’t match their sex assigned at birth.
“The regulations require a series of radical changes at schools that take federal money,” the plaintiffs’ attorneys wrote.
But U.S. Department of Justice lawyers argued in a response Wednesday morning that the motion should be denied, saying that the plaintiffs “ask this (appeals) court for immediate injunctive relief barring defendants’ effectuation of portions of a regulation that is about to come into force—in essence, the very preliminary injunction that the district court properly exercised its discretion to decline to issue.”
Axon, an Alabama federal judge nominated to the bench by former President Donald Trump, said the plaintiffs had not provided adequate arguments to obtain a preliminary injunction.
“Plaintiffs must, among other things, establish a substantial likelihood of success on the claims advanced in their complaint to obtain a preliminary injunction from this court,” Axon wrote. “They failed to sustain that burden.”
In part, Axon wrote that the plaintiffs had not adequately
backed up their claims that the Biden administration actions were arbitrary and capricious. The states have alleged violations of a law known as the Administrative Procedure Act.
“The court highlights that at later stages in these proceedings, more carefully developed legal arguments and the benefit of a fuller evidentiary record might yield a different result,” Axon wrote. “But the court declines to exercise its discretion to grant the extraordinary relief (a preliminary injunction) plaintiffs have requested.”
The rule and the lawsuit, which was filed in April in the federal Northern District of Alabama, came amid numerous moves by Florida and other Republican-led states in recent years to pass laws and regulations about LGBTQ people. For example, states have prevented transgender students from using school bathrooms that don’t match their sex assigned at birth and blocked or restricted treatments such as puberty blockers and hormone therapy for people with gender dysphoria.
The lawsuit alleges, in part, that the Biden administration overstepped its legal authority in extending the Title IX regulations to apply to discrimination based on gender identity. It also contends that the rule would
COULD FACE ‘STOP WOKE’ LEGAL TAB
By Florida News Service
Florida could face paying attorney fees for businesses that successfully challenged part of a 2022 law that Gov. Ron DeSantis dubbed the “Stop WOKE Act.”
Attorneys for the businesses Tuesday filed an 11-page motion that asks a judge to determine that the plaintiffs are entitled to recover legal fees and costs.
The motion came four days after Chief U.S. District Judge Mark Walker granted a permanent injunction against part of the law that sought to restrict business from addressing race-related issues in workplace training.
The permanent injunction came after the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals this year upheld a preliminary injunction that Walker issued in 2022.
Walker and the appeals court said the restrictions violated First Amendment rights.
Tuesday’s motion for attorney fees described the plaintiffs’ success in the case as “resounding.”
The motion seeks to recover fees for district-court and appeals-court proceedings.
“Plaintiffs did not just achieve some benefit but rather achieved the key benefit they sought in bringing this suit: enjoining enforcement of the
clash with the states’ decisions.
“The rule conflicts with many of the state plaintiffs’ laws that govern public institutions of higher education and primary and secondary education, including laws involving harassment, bathrooms, sports, parental rights and more,” the lawsuit said. “The rule thus impedes the state plaintiffs’ sovereign authority to enforce and administer their laws and creates pressure on the state plaintiffs to change their laws and practices.”
But in a brief filed in district court, Justice Department attorneys wrote that a preliminary injunction “would significantly harm the government’s interests in preventing such discrimination.”
“Sex discrimination in educational environments has devastating consequences, including the effects of harassment based on sexual orientation and gender identity,” the Justice Department brief said.
In the motion filed late Tuesday at the Atlanta-based appeals court, attorneys for the plaintiffs said courts in other judicial districts and circuits across the country have issued preliminary injunctions against the rule. The motion said an administrative injunction is
unconstitutional Stop WOKE Act,” the motion said.
The workplace-training part of the law listed eight race-related concepts and said that a required training program or other activity that “espouses, promotes, advances, inculcates, or compels such individual (an employee) to believe any of the following concepts constitutes discrimination based on race, color, sex, or national origin.”
The law was challenged by Primo Tampa, LLC, a Ben & Jerry’s ice-cream franchisee; Honeyfund.com, Inc., a Clearwater-based technology company that provides wedding registries; and Chevara Orrin and her company,
needed to “preserve the status quo” and cited such things as costs of complying with the rule.
“Here, the rule upends the status quo by requiring schools to digest hundreds of pages of new regulations, change their policies, train their employees, and much more,” the motion said. “The rule itself estimates that compliance will cost millions.”
But Justice Department attorneys said the plaintiffs had known since April that the rule was slated to take effect Aug. 1.
“In the intervening three months, the status quo has always been that the rule would go into effect and that plaintiffs would have to comply,” Justice Department attorneys wrote in Wednesday’s response. “If plaintiffs waited until yesterday afternoon to begin their compliance efforts, that is an emergency entirely of their own making.”
The lawsuit names as defendants the U.S. Department of Education and Education Secretary Miguel Cardona. Along with the states, other plaintiffs are four groups: the Independent Women’s Law Center, the Independent Women’s Network, Parents Defending Education and Speech First.
Collective Concepts, LLC.
Orrin and her company provide consulting and training to employers about issues such as diversity, equity and inclusion.
If Walker decides that the plaintiffs are entitled to attorney fees, the amount would then be determined.
Walker also has separately issued a preliminary injunction against part of the law that would restrict the way race-related concepts can be taught in universities.
A panel of the Atlanta-based appeals court held a hearing in that case in June.
Homeless service providers could help more people overcome homelessness if they measured success differently
By Morvarid Rahmani Associate Professor of Operations Management, Georgia Institute of Technology
Homelessness is a major problem in the U.S., and it’s getting worse:
A record 650,000 Americans were homeless on a single night in January 2023, according to the most recent point-in-time report released by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. That amounts to one out of every 500 people nationwide.
My state, Georgia, has seen a consistent rise in homelessness since 2017. By 2022, the number of unsheltered homeless
individuals in Georgia—in other words, those living on the street or in cars—surpassed those who had access to emergency shelter, according to state data.
Politicians have been paying attention: Every year, the federal government allocates billions in funding to local governments and nonprofit service providers to help fight homelessness. Yet this money hasn’t been enough to turn the tide. Why?
Homelessness has many complex causes, including unemployment, housing affordability and health problems. But speaking as a professor of operations management, I think an underappreciated problem
is how homeless service providers—mainly nonprofits— measure success. Too often, the system incentivizes quick fixes over long-term solutions.
Nonprofits offer a wide but threadbare safety net
Across the U.S., nonprofit agencies offer a range of services to people who are homeless, including shelter, housing, rehabilitation, job training and counseling. There are more than 12,000 such providers nationwide, including over 50 in metro Atlanta alone.
Homeless service providers, like other nonprofits, often publish metrics of impact to illustrate their success. This doesn’t just help them gain insight into the effectiveness of their operations—it also helps them communicate their values to the government, donors and the public.
Homeless service providers often tout their effectiveness in terms of meals served, beds provided or classes offered, research has shown. However, none of these measurements reflect success in terms of reducing homelessness. These are measures of outputs, not impact. Outputs are the tangible results of activities, while impact refers to long-term changes and benefits from activities. It’s surprisingly uncommon to see homeless service providers measure impact related
to reducing homelessness—that is, whether the people served have become self-sufficient and are no longer homeless.
That’s a mistake. Business research shows that the way nonprofits measure success directly affects how they set priorities. Depending on the characteristics of clients and services, homelesss service providers might be able to generate higher social impact—in other words, do more good—by prioritizing case-resolution rates over the number of clients served.
To be clear, homeless service providers are making remarkable contributions to communities across the U.S., and my intention isn’t to criticize them. Rather, I want to highlight how the sector often focuses on measuring outputs rather than impact. This focus naturally influences their activities and ultimate success.
A better path for homeless service providers
How can nonprofits measure impact in the context of homelessness?
They can start by considering the sustained outcome of their services, such as the number of people who became selfsufficient; the average time it takes for rehabilitation, job training and placement; and the starting salary of people who get assistance with employment and subsequently find jobs.
They can take it a step further
by considering the percentage of clients served who remained employed for more than a year, who could pay child custody for more than a year, or who had not been arrested for more than a year after being served.
You may say, correctly, that these are difficult objectives to measure. But some organizations have shown that it’s possible to do.
For instance, Georgia Works has helped more than 1,000 individuals exit homelessness.
And if you check their website, you’ll see they’re gauging their impact based on the above measures. This is an organization focused on helping its clients become self-sufficient.
Beyond measuring impact, it’s also critical for nonprofits to effectively communicate these measures to funders such as government agencies and donors. Without clear communication, organizations that focus solely on output measures may appear more productive even if their activities lack lasting impact. This could result in more funding being allocated to those organizations rather than to ones that are creating a more genuine and long-lasting impact.
By prioritizing and standardizing impact measures and clearly communicating them with funders, Americans can reduce homelessness and build stronger, more resilient communities.
Long COVID puzzle pieces are falling into place—the picture is unsettling
By Ziyad Al-Aly Chief of
Research and Development, VA St. Louis Health Care System. Clinical Epidemiologist, Washington University in St. Louis
Since 2020, the condition known as long COVID-19 has become a widespread disability affecting the health and quality of life of millions of people across the globe and costing economies billions of dollars in reduced productivity of employees and an overall drop in the work force.
The intense scientific effort that long COVID sparked has resulted in more than 24,000 scientific publications, making it the most researched health condition in any four years of recorded human history.
Long COVID is a term that describes the constellation of long-term health effects caused by infection with the SARS-CoV-2 virus. These range from persistent respiratory symptoms, such as shortness of breath, to debilitating fatigue or brain fog that limits people’s ability to work, and conditions such as heart failure and diabetes, which are known to last a lifetime.
I am a physician scientist, and I have been deeply immersed in studying long COVID since the early days of the pandemic. I have testified before the U.S. Senate as an expert witness on long COVID, have published extensively on it and was named as one of Time’s 100 most influential people in health in 2024 for my research in this area.
Over the first half of 2024, a flurry of reports and scientific papers on long COVID added clarity to this complex condition. These include, in particular, insights into how COVID-19 can still wreak havoc in many organs years after the initial viral infection, as well as emerging evidence on viral persistence and immune dysfunction that last for months or years after initial infection.
How long COVID affects the body
A new study that my colleagues and I published in
of Medicine on July 17, 2024, shows that the risk of long COVID declined over the course of the pandemic. In 2020, when the ancestral strain of SARS-CoV-2 was dominant and vaccines were not available, about 10.4% of adults who got COVID-19 developed long COVID. By early 2022, when the omicron family of variants predominated, that rate declined to 7.7% among unvaccinated adults and 3.5% of vaccinated adults. In other words, unvaccinated people were more than twice as likely to develop long COVID.
While researchers like me do not yet have concrete numbers for the current rate in mid-2024 due to the time it takes for long COVID cases to be reflected in the data, the flow of new patients into long COVID clinics has been on par with 2022.
We found that the decline was the result of two key drivers: availability of vaccines and changes in the characteristics of the virus—which made the virus less prone to cause severe acute infections and may have reduced its ability to persist in the human body long enough to cause chronic disease.
Despite the decline in risk of developing long COVID, even a 3.5% risk is substantial. New and repeat COVID-19 infections translate into millions of new long COVID cases that add to an already staggering number of people suffering from this condition.
Estimates for the first year of the pandemic suggests that at least 65 million people globally have had long COVID. Along with a group of other leading scientists, my team will soon publish updated estimates of the global burden of long COVID and its impact on the global economy through 2023.
In addition, a major new report by the National Academies of Sciences Engineering and Medicine details all the health effects that constitute long COVID. The report was commissioned by the Social Security Administration to understand the implications of long COVID on its disability benefits.
It concludes that long COVID is a complex chronic condition that can result
in more than 200 health effects across multiple body systems. These include new onset or worsening: heart disease neurologic problems such as cognitive impairment, strokes and dysautonomia . This is a category of disorders that affect the body’s autonomic nervous system—nerves that regulate most of the body’s vital mechanisms such as blood pressure, heart rate and temperature. post-exertional malaise, a state of severe exhaustion that may happen after even minor activity — often leaving the patient unable to function for hours, days or weeks gastrointestinal disorders kidney disease metabolic disorders such as diabetes and hyperlipidemia , or a rise in bad cholesterol
• immune dysfunction
Long COVID can affect people across the lifespan from children to older adults and across race and ethnicity and baseline health status. Importantly, more than 90% of people with long COVID had mild COVID-19 infections.
The National Academies report also concluded that long COVID can result in the inability to return to work or school; poor quality of life; diminished ability to perform activities of daily living; and decreased physical and cognitive function for months or years after the initial infection.
The report points out that many health effects of long COVID, such as postexertional malaise and chronic fatigue, cognitive impairment and autonomic dysfunction, are not currently captured in the Social Security Administration’s Listing of Impairments, yet may significantly affect an individual’s ability to participate in work or school.
A long road ahead
What’s more, health problems resulting from COVID-19 can last years after the initial infection.
A large study published in early 2024
showed that even people who had a mild SARS-CoV-2 infection still experienced new health problems related to COVID-19 in the third year after the initial infection. Such findings parallel other research showing that the virus persists in various organ systems for months or years after COVID-19 infection. And research is showing that immune responses to the infection are still evident two to three years after a mild infection. Together, these studies may explain why a SARS-CoV-2 infection years ago could still cause new health problems long after the initial infection.
Important progress is also being made in understanding the pathways by which long COVID wreaks havoc on the body.
Two preliminary studies from the U.S. and the Netherlands show that when researchers transfer auto-antibodies— antibodies generated by a person’s immune system that are directed at their own tissues and organs—from people with long COVID into healthy mice, the animals start to experience long COVIDlike symptoms such as muscle weakness and poor balance.
These studies suggest that an abnormal immune response thought to be responsible for the generation of these auto-antibodies may underlie long COVID and that removing these auto-antibodies may hold promise as potential treatments.
An ongoing threat
Despite overwhelming evidence of the wide-ranging risks of COVID-19, a great deal of messaging suggests that it is no longer a threat to the public. Although there is no empirical evidence to back this up, this misinformation has permeated the public narrative.
The data, however, tells a different story. COVID-19 infections continue to outnumber flu cases and lead to more hospitalization and death than the flu. COVID-19 also leads to more serious long-term health problems. Trivializing COVID-19 as an inconsequential cold or equating it with the flu does not align with reality.
File photo: James “Red” Sanborn, a formerly homeless man, gets a hug from Maxi Rodriquez, the Interfaith warehouse assistant, as he moves into a newly renovated apartment with Jose Sambo, also a formerly homeless man, at the Interfaith 14th Street Apartments in Ocala on Monday, April 4, 2022. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2022.
People, Places & Things
Embracing the healing power of forest therapy
Sister’s
By Lauren Debick
Certified forest therapy guide and founder of Mindful Wanderings
In a world where digital noise and stress dominates our daily lives, the soothing embrace of nature is often overlooked. Here in Marion County, we are blessed beyond measure to be within close proximity to natural springs and a national forest and be centrally located between the Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic Ocean. Having access to these natural resources gives locals and visitors alike the opportunity to experience the therapeutic properties of nature through the practice of forest therapy.
Forest therapy, also known as shinrinyoku or “forest bathing,” is a practice that invites individuals to reconnect with nature through immersive and mindful experiences in nature. This Japanese practice has gained global recognition for its profound healing benefits, making it a sanctuary for those seeking solace from the pressures of modern life.
Forest therapy is not just a walk in the woods; it is a deliberate, mindful immersion in nature that is led by a certified guide. The role of the guide is to offer participants a mindful walk experience by inviting people to slow down and connect with the world around them. It is an opportunity
to reconnect and reflect in a new way. Participants are encouraged to engage all their senses, observing the sights, sounds, and smells of the outdoors. The goal is to foster a deep connection with the natural environment, which in turn promotes physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
The healing benefits of forest therapy
Physical health
Research has shown that spending time in nature can have significant benefits on physical health. One of the most notable effects is the reduction in stress levels.
Forest therapy has been linked to lower levels of cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone. Additionally, it can improve cardiovascular health by reducing blood pressure and heart rate. The practice also boosts the immune system, as trees release phytoncides—airborne chemicals that have antibacterial and antifungal properties— into the environment. When inhaled, these phytoncides can enhance the body’s natural defense mechanisms.
Mental health
The mental health benefits of forest therapy are equally compelling. For those struggling with anxiety, depression, or burnout, nature provides a tranquil escape from the demands of everyday life. Studies have indicated that forest therapy can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression,
improve mood, and enhance overall feelings of well-being. The practice also encourages mindfulness, which helps individuals to focus on the present moment and break free from the cycle of negative thoughts.
Emotional well-being
Emotionally, forest therapy fosters a sense of connectedness—to oneself, to others, and to the environment. This connection can lead to a greater sense of purpose and fulfillment. The forest acts as a natural setting for reflection and introspection, allowing individuals to gain clarity and perspective on their lives. It can also strengthen social bonds, as group forest therapy sessions promote shared experiences and communal healing.
Who can benefit from forest therapy? Forest therapy is accessible and beneficial to a wide range of individuals:
1. Professionals and caregivers: Individuals in high-stress occupations or caregiving roles can find rejuvenation and stress relief through forest therapy, which helps prevent burnout and promote mental clarity.
2. Children: Spending time outside is immensely beneficial for children, providing a wealth of physical, mental, and social advantages that contribute to their overall development.
3. Retirees: For older adults, forest therapy can enhance physical health, improve mood, and provide opportunities for gentle exercise and social interaction.
4. People with chronic illnesses: Those managing chronic health conditions may find relief in the stress-reducing and immune-boosting properties of forest therapy.
5. Athletes: Athletes often face intense pressure and stress from competition and training. Incorporating forest therapy into an athlete’s routine can offer a comprehensive approach to enhancing physical health, mental clarity, and emotional stability, ultimately leading to improved athletic performance and overall wellbeing.
Indoor forest therapy sessions can also be facilitated for those unable to go outdoors. During an indoor session, participants are guided through natureinspired activities in a space filled with natural elements like plants, stones, and water features. Through mindful practices such as deep breathing, guided meditation, and sensory exercises, attendees connect with the sights, sounds, and scents of nature from wherever they are. This is especially beneficial for those who are homebound or who may be in a healthcare setting and unable to go outside.
In an era marked by technological advancements and an increase in daily stress, our innate need for nature remains unchanged. Consider this your invitation to step away from your screens and dive into all that the natural world has to offer in as little as two hours. Whether it’s a guided session or a one-on-one experience, forest therapy invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with the natural world. In doing so, you may discover a simple, yet profound way to restore balance, promote healing, and thrive.
To learn more, visit mindfulwanderings.net
Keeper event seeks to connect and inspire women
The empowerment brunch will again have noted author and life coach Dr. Anita Phillips as the keynote speaker
By Jennifer Hunt Murty jennifer@ocalagazette.com
Last September I took a leap of faith and accepted
a friend’s invitation to attend the Sister’s Keeper Empowerment Brunch hosted by I
Am My Sister’s Keeper. The keynote speaker was Dr. Anita Phillips, a trauma therapist, life coach, minister and author of the New York Times bestseller “The Garden Within.” When Phillips’ keynote address
correlated leadership collaboration to the Biblical story of Moses’ insecurity about public speaking and the help he received from his brother Aaron so they could aid the Jews enslaved by Egypt, this news journalist found personal application. I’m sure there were a lot of others in the room, from various walks of life, who also may have been thinking, “Yes, sometimes we need help from our friends to effectively overcome our insecurities and do the hard stuff—
say the hard stuff—to be a leader.”
And not only did Phillips’ lecture/ sermon, and many accounts of women’s triumphs and struggles, feed my spirit, the brunch was delicious. Phillips will return for the next annual Sister’s Keeper Empowerment Brunch, which will be held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sept. 14 at the Circle Square Cultural Center, and I’ve already got my ticket.
I Am My Sister’s Keeper was
See Empowerment, page B2
Founder, Mindful Wanderings, Lauren Debick
[Courtesy of Lauren Debick]
Host Pinkie Tuggerson with visiting keynote speaker Dr. Anita Phillips at the 2023 event. [Supplied]
File photo: A palmetto frond casts a shadow onto the trail of the Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway Ross Prairie Trail, which is part of the Florida Trail, off State Road 200 west of Ocala on Tuesday, February 1, 2022. One of the proposed Northern Turnpike Extensions comes right through the Ross Prairie Trail and the Ross Prairie Forest. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2022.
Empowerment brunch
Continued from page B1
born out of triumph and tragedy in the life of Pinkie Tuggerson, the empowerment event founder and a local minister.
Event organizers wrote to the “Gazette” about how the event came about: “In the same year that she felt the call to lead a women’s ministry, her only daughter was diagnosed with cancer and unexpectedly passed away at 32 years old, leaving behind two young daughters. Through her pain and newfound purpose in raising her two granddaughters, Tuggerson continued to follow her call to minister to women from all walks of life, from the business executive to the prison inmate. As she witnessed the testimonies and trials of these women,
she found herself not only strengthened but also inspired to connect women to one another in a way that would inspire and empower them to pursue their dreams and purposes through all seasons of life.”
We emailed Tuggerson to ask what she hopes those who attend this year will take away from the Sister’s Keeper Women’s Empowerment Brunch.
“We hope that the women of this year’s Sister’s Keeper Women’s Empowerment Brunch will leave feeling inspired, empowered, and connected. Our goal is to provide a safe space for women to share their experiences, learn from each other, and gain valuable tools and resources to help them navigate life’s challenges,” she replied.
“We hope that our guests will take
away:
• A renewed sense of purpose and confidence
Practical advice and strategies for personal and professional growth
A stronger support network and community connections
A deeper understanding of self-care and self-love
Inspiration and motivation to make a positive impact in their own lives and the lives of others
Ultimately, we hope that our event will be a catalyst for positive change and a reminder that, together, we can uplift and support one another,” she added. And, touching on the meal, Tuggerson noted, “This year, we’re excited to have Chef Mario McTier and his team from
American Sunday Plate Catering return to delight the women with an even more impressive culinary experience.”
She shared that the meal will feature a pastry board station with an assortment of sweet treats; a fresh fruit station with seasonal delights; a grill station with tender chicken with a bourbon sweet sauce, served in a hot skillet, hibachi-style; sides of sautéed seasoned asparagus and Hibachi-style rice; a refreshing water station and the signature beverage, Pink Blushing.
IF YOU GO:
When: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sept. 14
Where: Circle Square Commons, 8405 SW 80th St., Ocala Tickets: $70, online at bit.ly/3WEPzpg
AN EXPERT METHOD HELPS YOU FRY MEATY PORK CHOPS TO CRUNCHY, JUICY PERFECTION
By Lan Lam America’s Test Kitchen
O
ur crisp, juicy, well-browned pork tonkatsu starts with 3/4-inch-thick boneless chops with a thin fat cap. We cut slits in the fat to prevent the chops from buckling and then sprinkled them with salt. We revamped the bound breading process so that a triple dip—first in flour, then in egg, and finally in panko—coated the chops with the least possible mess and fuss. We found that shallow-frying the chops in a cast-iron skillet produced the best results with the least amount of oil, and a unique setup for resting the chops helped keep them crispy from edge to edge.
Tonkatsu (Japanese Fried Pork Chops) Serves 4
2 cups finely shredded green cabbage
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
2 1/2 cups panko bread crumbs
4 (6-ounce) boneless pork chops, 3/4-inch thick
1 teaspoon Kosher salt
3/4 cup vegetable oil for frying
4 cups cooked Japanese short-grain rice
Lemon wedges
Soy sauce
Prepared wasabi paste or Japanese mustard
1. Place cabbage in a salad spinner basket. Add a single layer of ice cubes to the salad spinner bowl. Set the basket on ice and add cold water to cover cabbage. Let sit until cabbage is cold and crisp, 10 minutes. Drain and spin until very dry. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use. (Cabbage can be prepared up to 3 hours in advance.)
2. Place flour in a medium bowl. Beat eggs in a second medium bowl until no streaks remain. Spread panko in an even layer over half of a 13-by 9-inch baking dish. Set a wire rack on a rimmed baking sheet. Invert a loaf pan onto the center of the rack.
3. Place pork chops on a cutting board. Working with one chop at a time, and
starting at one end of the chop, insert a paring knife at 45-degree angle through the fat cap to create a 1/4-inch slit, pushing the knife through until you reach the cutting board (do not cut from edge to edge). Repeat around perimeter of fat cap, spacing slits 3/4 inch apart
4. Sprinkle chops all over with salt. Dredge chops thoroughly in flour, shaking off excess and returning to the cutting board. Use your hand to dip one chop in egg and allow excess to drip back into the bowl to ensure a very thin coating. Place chop on top of panko and, using your other hand, cover pork with crumbs, pressing firmly so crumbs stick to all sides. Return to the cutting board. Repeat with remaining chops, tilting dish to rearrange panko on one side before coating.
5. Heat oil in a 12-inch cast-iron skillet over medium heat to 340 degrees (to take temperature, tilt skillet slightly so oil collects on one side). Place chops in skillet and cook, using tongs to lift one edge of each chop occasionally to allow steam to escape, until deep golden brown on both sides, about 4 minutes per side. Transfer chops to prepared rack, leaning them against loaf pan. Let rest for 5 minutes.
6. Divide cabbage evenly among four serving plates and portion rice into four bowls. Slice chops crosswise 1/2-inch thick and transfer to plates. Serve with lemon wedges, soy sauce, and wasabi.
Recipe notes
Pork chops: The cooking time is dependent on the thickness of the pork chops. Do not substitute chops of another thickness. If you can, purchase chops with a 1/4-inch-thick fat cap. If your pork chops do not have a fat cap, skip Step 3.
Panko: Panko may be sold in boxes or bags, some of which have windows showing the size and shape of the crumbs; for the crispest texture, look for crumbs that are large and flaked rather than small and pebbly.
Equipment: If you don’t have a cast-iron skillet, use stainless steel and increase the oil to 1 cup.
(For 25 years, home cooks have relied on America’s Test Kitchen for rigorously tested recipes developed by professional test cooks and vetted by 60,000 at-home recipe testers. The family of brands—which includes Cook’s Illustrated and Cook’s Country—offers reliable recipes for cooks of all skill levels. See more online at www.americastestkitchen.com/TCA.)
Shallow-frying the chops in a cast-iron skillet produced the best results. [TNS]
By Bruce Ackerman bruce@ocalagazette.com
Managing medication for loved ones
By Catherine Lea Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research
DEAR MAYO CLINIC: My elderly mom has recently been told she needs to take a bunch of different medications every day due to her health conditions. It’s gotten pretty overwhelming, and I’m worried about things like her missing doses or drug interactions. I just want to make sure she’s safe and healthy. Do you have tips on how to handle my mom’s meds?
ANSWER: Some older people struggle with remembering to take their medications or organizing them effectively. Adult children, like yourself, can help by taking steps to monitor and update medication lists. Doing this can help prevent potential health complications, while also providing peace of mind for both you and your mom.
The most common medication-related problems in older adults include taking too high or too low of a dose, taking unnecessary medications, not taking medication as directed or at all, taking an ineffective medication, or adverse drug reactions such as confusion, bleeding and oversedation.
In addition, certain medications require special monitoring. Medications used to control pain, anxiety, mood and sleep pose the largest risk for patients as they age. Medications for blood pressure and diabetes also can be problematic if they are not monitored closely and adjusted as health conditions change.
Every person’s medication needs are different. The risk for medication-related problems increases with each medication that is added. If your mom takes four or more medications, she has a higher risk for medication-related problems especially falls. Here are six tips for helping your mom with her medications:
• Gather information about the medications she uses. Get your mother’s up-to-date medication lists from her health care team. Make sure that this list matches the prescription containers in her home. Then talk through each medication so both of you fully understand what it is taken for, how often and at what dose. Contact the pharmacy about available medication management services. Many pharmacies offer individual dose, or compliance packaging, options. This is a lowcost way to help patients better manage daily medications and it offers a way for
family members to double-check on doses that may have been missed. If your pharmacy doesn’t offer this service, use a medication planner. This is a plastic organizer that stores scheduled doses of medications and makes it easier to keep on top of which medication to take and when.
Contact the pharmacy about medication synchronization. Medication synchronization allows patients to fill most medications at one time every 30 or 90 days, instead of refill cycles scattered throughout the month. This may help simplify and organize medications.
• Request access to your mother’s medical records. If something goes wrong and your mom needs extra help, having digital access to her medical records can help you get in touch with her primary care clinician or pharmacist to assist.
Schedule a visit with a pharmacist. A comprehensive medication review can be scheduled through your mother’s primary care clinician’s office. You can ask for a referral during a visit or call the scheduling line and ask for a referral. During the visit, a clinical pharmacist will review your parent’s medication lists to ensure all the medications are prescribed correctly.
• Talk with a pharmacist before adding vitamins and supplements. Even though these products can be purchased over the counter without a prescription, there are still important interaction concerns with some medications. Talk with a health care professional or pharmacist before adding vitamins, herbal remedies or supplements to your mom’s medication regimen.
As a caregiver, it’s important that you take time for self-care and recharging so that you can continue to give. Pay attention to how you feel emotionally and physically. If you need a break or would like assistance, ask family members or other loved ones for help. There are many caregiving resources in the community that can help your mom with needed services or additional support. The best measure of caregiver success is if you did your best with what you had available at that moment. Remember, you don’t have to do it alone.—Catherine Lea, Registered Pharmacist, Medication Therapy Management, Mayo Clinic Health System, Eau Claire, Wisconsin
(Mayo Clinic Q & A is an educational resource and doesn’t replace regular medical care. E-mail a question to MayoClinicQ&A@mayo.edu. For more information, visit www.mayoclinic.org.)
Muscovy duck ducklings, with one seeming to be out of formation, swim in an arrow formation in the pond at Polly Palmer Park in Ocala on Sunday, July 28, 2024. The ducklings are only about two weeks old and are getting bigger and stronger every day. They stay with their mother for the first 10-12 weeks to stay warm.
Right: A wood stork wades in the pond at Polly Palmer Park in Ocala on Sunday, July 28, 2024. Although the wood stork does not carry babies to expectant mothers, the bald-headed wading bird can reach the height of just over 3 feet tall and can be found only in a few areas in the United States, in Florida, South Carolina, and Georgia. It was reclassified by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service on June 30, 2014, from endangered to threatened. The “White Stork of Europe “figures prominently in mythology. They are revered in Greek, Chinese, and European mythologies as good luck and harbingers of spring and birth.
The association between storks and babies was popularized by Hans Christian Andersen’s fable “The Storks,” written in the nineteenth century.
Ireland’s entertaining Ring of Kerry
ByRick Steves
One of Ireland’s most popular destinations is the Iveragh Peninsula—known to shamrock lovers everywhere as the “Ring of Kerry.” The Ring, lassoed by a winding coastal road through a mountainous, lakesplattered region, is undeniably scenic. Visitors since Victorian times have been drawn to this evocative chunk of the Emerald Isle, where mysterious ancient ring forts stand sentinel on mossy hillsides. It seems like every tour bus in Ireland makes the ritual loop around the Ring, using the bustling and famous tourist town of Killarney as a springboard. I skip Killarney, whose main attraction is its transit connections for those without cars. (Don’t confuse this overcommercialized town with the scenic and worthwhile Killarney National Park, nearby.)
Instead, rent a car and use as your home base the tidy town of Kenmare (it’s actually won Ireland’s “Tidy Town” award). While in Kenmare, druids seek out the town’s ancient stone circle
(with 15 stones in a circle 50 feet wide), one of about 100 little Stonehenges that dot southwest Ireland. Fitness buffs enjoy horseback riding, boating, hiking, and golfing—there are many ways to experience Ireland’s 40 shades of green.
Before or after the day you tackle the Ring, consider exploring three worthwhile sights near Kenmare. The first is a stately home called Muckross House, perhaps Ireland’s best Victorian mansion. Queen Victoria really did sleep here for three nights in 1861—on the ground floor because she had a fear of house fires. Adjacent to Muckross House is a fascinating open-air farmhouse museum that covers Irish farm life from the 1920s to the 1950s. Talk with the docents who remember the year 1955, when electricity came to rural dwellings. Farmers would pull on Wellington boots for safety, then cautiously turn on the switch that powered the one bare bulb hanging from the ceiling.
Between Muckross House and Kenmare is a scenic mountainous chunk of Killarney National Park (great views at Moll’s Gap) and the Kissane Sheep Farm,
Love expressive faces? Three-monthold Cali would be the purrfect muse for any pet photographer! Pictured here, she just finished a rolling bath of dried catnip and then immediately was ready for her close-up. Make her famous!
a real working farm that offers demonstrations of sheep shearing and expert sheepherding. You’ll be wowed by the intelligence of the family dogs.
Ready for Ireland’s favorite road trip? Touring the Ring of Kerry takes a long but satisfying day by car from Kenmare. Smart travelers get an early start (by 8:30 a.m.), working their way clockwise to escape the tour-bus procession heading counterclockwise.
The laid-back town of Sneem (yup, funny name) is worth a stop. The square on the east side of town is called South Square and the one on the west is called North Square. When it comes to giving directions, the Irish march to their own beat.
Stop at Staigue Fort, an imposing sight rising out of a desolate high valley. The circular drystone walls were built sometime between 500 BC and AD 300 without the aid of mortar or cement. About 80 feet across, with walls 12 feet thick at the base and up to 25 feet high, this brutish structure would have taken a hundred men six months to complete. It’s thought that during times of tribal war, locals
used the fort as a refuge, bringing their valuable cattle inside to protect them from rustlers.
The Derrynane House, just beyond the Staigue Fort, was the home of Daniel O’Connell, Ireland’s most influential preindependence politician. His tireless nonviolent agitation gained equality for Catholics in the early 1800s. See the 20-minute audiovisual presentation on O’Connell, along with some of his belongings, including pistols from a duel and a black glove—which the remorseful O’Connell always wore on his pistol hand when he went to Mass. He was forced into the duel, killed the man who challenged him, and regretted it for the rest of his life.
Approaching Portmagee, you’ll see the striking silhouette of the spikey, desolate, and tiny island of Skellig Michael. Visit the Skellig Experience Centre, which tells the story of the island—the Holy Grail of Irish monastic island settlements. During the so-called “Dark Ages,” its monks helped preserve literacy and sacred texts. Hardy hikers can take a boat to the island and hike 600 vertical feet to the monastic ruins.
But I’m back in the car, heading on to two more ring forts: Cahergal and Leacanabuaile. Because this region had copper mines, it has a wealth of prehistoric sights. Copper melted with tin yielded bronze, and with that, the Bronze Age (2000 to 500 bc ), which brought sturdier weapons and tools. The many ring forts and stone circles here reflect the lively trade and affluence created by copper.
As I pull back into Kenmare, the lush green landscape seems to glow as the sun sets. While the ancient sights are fascinating and the history is educational, perhaps the best reason to come here is the eternal beauty of the Irish landscape.
(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.)
Current Adoption Specials:
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Cali
A drive along the Ring of Kerry presents classic views of the Irish countryside. [Pat O’Connor, Rick Steves’ Europe]
International film series returns to CF
Special events connected to the series will include a memorial to founder Ira Holmes.
Staff report
The Ira Holmes International Film Series at the College of Central Florida will return in September with a full season of 12 films from across the globe, plus special events that will include a preseason anime cosplay event, a familyfriendly Sunday matinee, a live filmmaker Q&A and two unique collaborations with the Ocala Symphony Orchestra.
Ira Holmes, the series founder and a beloved professor at CF, passed away June 9 at the age of 90. The season kickoff’s evening screening of “The Seventh Seal” will be a memorial event to honor him.
“Before his passing, Ira requested this film as a message of hope for us all,” said series director and CF professor Wendy Adams. “We’ll start by sharing our favorite memories of Ira before watching this classic film that ushered in a new era of art-house cinema in the U.S. around the time Ira became enamored with the medium as a young man.”
“The Seventh Seal,” a 1957 Swedish historical fantasy film, tells the tale of an exhausted medieval knight who encounters Death on a desolate beach and challenges him to a fateful game of chess. Directed by Ingmar Bergman, the exploration of life, death and faith was one of the benchmark foreign imports that launched America’s art-house heyday of the 1950s, noted the news release.
Series Schedule:
Sept. 20: “Belle,” anime preseason event at 8 p.m. at the Marion Theatre; cosplay
honoring Ira Holmes
Oct. 22: “Psycho,” evening screening starting at 7:30 p.m. at the Marion Theatre, with a film talk by Ocala Symphony Orchestra Music Director
Matthew Wardell
Nov. 12: “Long Flat Balls”
Nov. 26: “Close to Vermeer,” evening screening includes film talk with Arts in Health Ocala Metro Executive Director
Patricia Tomlinson
Jan. 9: “The Red Balloon” and “A Cat in Paris” family-friendly matinee double feature at 1 p.m. at the Marion Theatre Feb. 11: “Hit the Road” Feb. 25: “Some Kind of Heaven”
March 11: “My Donkey, My Lover & I”
March 25: “Following the Ninth,” 7 p.m. screening at the Marion Theatre includes film series member exclusive meet and greet with director Kerry Candaele at 6 p.m., facilitated by Ocala Symphony Orchestra Music Director Matt Wardell
March 26: “A League of Their Own,” 2 p.m. screening at CF follows 12:30 p.m. film talk with Kerry Candaele, whose 1987 documentary preceded the 1992 feature film
All films will be shown Tuesdays at 2 p.m. at the Appleton Museum of Art, 4333 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala, and at 7 p.m. at the College of Central Florida, 3001 S.W. College Road, Building 8, Room 110, unless otherwise noted. Films at the Ocala Campus are free and open to the public. Films at the Appleton are free to all museum and film series members; nonmembers pay museum admission. Films may contain mature content.
For more details, visit cf.edu/filmseries
“Before his passing, Ira requested this film as a message of hope for us all. We’ll start by sharing our favorite memories of Ira before watching this classic film ...”
Wendy Adams CF professor
From left, A.J. Holmes, the late Sally Holmes, Amanda Concha-Holmes, Ira Holmes and Kevin Holmes. [Photo courtesy Holmes family]
Ira Holmes is shown on a glass-bottom boat at Silver Springs State Park during an excursion that included documentarian John De Graff and Wendy Adams, the current director of the CF Ira Holmes International Film Series. [Photo by Jackie Stewart] Ira Holmes [Photo courtesy College
government
AUGUST 5, 12, 19, 26
Marion County Development Review Office of County Engineer, 412 SE 25th Ave., Building 1, Ocala
9am
The committee reviews and votes on waiver requests to the Land Development Code, major site plans and subdivision plans. The committee meets weekly on Mondays. See marion.fl.legistar.com/calendar.aspx for agenda and minutes.
AUGUST 6, 20
Marion County Board of County Commissioners
McPherson Governmental Campus Auditorium, 601 SE 25th Ave., Ocala 9am
The commission meets the first and third Tuesday of the month. Agendas, minutes and video are available at marionfl.legistar.com/calendar.aspx
AUGUST 6, 20
Ocala City Council
Ocala City Hall, 110 SE Watula Ave., Ocala
4pm
The council meets the first and third Tuesday of the month. Ocala government agendas and minutes are available at ocala.legistar.com/calendar.aspx
AUGUST 6, 20
Belleview City Commission
Belleview City Hall, 5343 SE Abshier Blvd., Belleview 6pm Meets the first and third Tuesday of the month; agendas, minutes and video available at belleviewfl.org/200/agendas-minutes
AUGUST 14
Dunnellon City Council
Dunnellon City Hall, 20750 River Dr., Dunnellon 5:30pm Agendas, minutes and video are available at dunnellon.org/government/agendas-minutes
community
AUGUST 3
4th Annual Chad Smith Benefit Xtreme Rodeo
Florida Horse Park, 11008 S. Highway 475, Ocala
12 to 7pm
The event will include some of the best riders and wranglers from all over the world, of all ages, as well as majestic bulls from multiple southeastern stock contractors. It will include live music, a cornhole tournament, food and a full bar for guests 21 and older. Tickets start at $15 for presale. Call (352) 857-6716 or visit bit.ly/XtremeRodeo2024 for tickets.
AUGUST 10
Patriot Service Dogs Story & Veteran/Service Dog Graduation
Reilly Arts Center, 1750 NW 80th Ave., Ocala
6pm to 8pm
Celebrate 15 years of service in this special, free event from Patriot Service Dogs. Hear the story of the organization from its inception to today, with guest speakers and real-life beneficiaries. Also featured are the new dogs graduating into service roles, with demonstrations from animals and their handlers. Visit reillyartscenter.com/events/veteran-service-dog-graduation for more information.
AUGUST 23-25
Ocala Dog Ranch & EPIC Rehab Center Pet Expo Equine Performance Innovation Center, 5590 NW Hwy 225, Ocala Times vary each day.
This three-day event will feature a mobile dock for dog jumping games, rescue group vendors with information on services and animals available for adoption, food and beverages available on site, and more. EPIC Rehab Center features rehabilitation facilities for horses, such as boarding, swimming pools, and hyperbaric recovery chambers. Visit epicdogdays.com for more information.
AUGUST 24
Marion County’s Democratic Women’s Club “Equalitea” Day Event Appleton Museum of Art, 4333 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala 12:30pm to 3pm The speakers will include former Rep. Debbie Mucarsel-Powell and other guests. The club requests that guests wear white as a way to honor the Suffragist Movement. Proceeds raised will go toward providing scholarships to deserving high school students. Visit bit.ly/3A1LP89 for more information and tickets.
AUGUST 9
Book Signing with Dave Schlenker
Ocala Civic Theatre, 4337 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala
5 to 7pm
Dave Schlenker, a local author and longtime journalist, will be signing copies of “Columns, Confessions and
A Brain Cyst.” The book is his second collection of essays and articles from the “Ocala Star-Banner,” “Ocala Style” and the “Ocala Gazette.” In the new book, the noted pundit delves deep into pressing issues, such as: Why is there underwear on the doorknob? Where is the SS Minnow? Who placed sardines in his car in August? Is Erik Estrada still a hunka hunka burnin’ love? Learn more at fb.com/dave.schlenker
AUGUST 14
Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE 9th St., Ocala
Starting at 10am & 6pm
Saturday, August 3 Free First Saturdays are sponsored in part by CAMPUS USA Credit Union.
Coffee/Cocktails with the Conductor in the NOMA Black Box
Guests can enjoy coffee in the morning session, or their favorite adult beverages in the evening, with Ocala Symphony Orchestra conductor Matthew Wardell in the first of this season’s Coffee/Cocktails with the Conductor series. Wardell will preview the upcoming season of shows in an informal, sit-down setting. Visit reillyartscenter.com/events for details.
AUGUST 18
Artist Talk with Charlita Rae Whitehead
Appleton Museum of Art, 4333 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala
2 to 3pm
Discussing her new solo exhibit “Every Fiber of my Being,” Whitehead will provide insight into the world of tufting, a form of art that combines weaving and needle embroidery with technological innovation, creating tapestries, looms and more. Free to attend. For more information, visit appletonmuseum.org/events/artist-talk-with-charlita-rae-whitehead
education
AUGUST 12
MCPS Regular Start of Schools
Times may vary With the exception of Wyomina Park Elementary School, the rest of Marion County Public Schools will return to session with the beginning of the 2024-25 new school year. Check your local school for specific start times and dismissals.
things to do arts
AUGUST 23
Watkins Glen Summer Jam Anniversary Celebration Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE 9th St., Ocala 7:30pm Come see Steeln’ Peaches (Allman Brothers Band), Unlimited Devotion (Grateful Dead) and Harper Wynn (The Band) perform. Commemorating the 51st anniversary of The Summer Jam at Watkins Glen. The 1973 concert was a world record holder for largest concert gathering with nearly 600,000 spectators in attendance. Tickets are on sale now at the Reilly Arts Box Office, or online at reillyartscenter.com/events/ watkins-glen-summer-anniversary-celebration
AUGUST 31
Dueling Pianos in the NOMA Black Box
Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE 9th St., Ocala 6pm and 9pm Turn your Friday night into one of fun music and competition. Two musicians “battle” by playing a medley of soft rock and pop hits. Groups of up to six can be accommodated at tables in the NOMA Black Box theatre, with smaller parties having the opportunity to group up with new friends at their table. The late showing is “uncensored” and intended for adult audiences. Cocktails available for guests 21+. Tickets are on sale at the box office or reillyartscenter.com/events/dueling-pianos
SEPTEMBER 14-15
Kingdom of the Sun Concert Band: The Musical World of Disney
Marion Technical Institute, 1614 Fort King St., Ocala
1pm on Sat., 2pm on Sun.
Join The Kingdom of the Sun Concert Band for “The Musical World of Disney,” a family-friendly concert performance of Disney classics. Children are encouraged to wear Disney costumes and join the parade during the Mickey Mouse March. Doors open at 1 pm on Saturday and at 2 pm on Sunday. Featuring UNIQULELE, the opening act, performing 45 minutes prior to the concert. In partnership with Once Upon a Party, LLC. Free to the public. Visit kingdomofthesunband.org to learn more. Editor’s Note: The dates for these performances were incorrect in last week’s edition.
Admission is free from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. At 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., see the 2019 documentary, “Cunningham,” which traces the artistic evolution of legendary American choreographer Merce Cunningham. Screenings are free as part of Free First Saturday.
Sudoku is played on a grid of 9 x 9 spaces. Within the rows and columns are 9 “squares” (made up of 3 x 3 spaces). Each row, column and square (9 spaces each) needs to be filled out with the numbers 1-9, without repeating any numbers within the same row, column or square.
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTH
JUDICIAL CIRCUIT
IN AND FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA
PROBATE DIVISION
IN RE: ESTATE OF:
Gordon James Wallace
Deceased.
FILE NO.: 24CP001443AX
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of Gordon James Wallace, deceased, whose date of death was March 7, 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for MARION County, Florida, Probate Division, File Number 24CP001443AX, the address of which is Probate Division 110 NW 1st Avenue Ocala FL 34471. 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 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 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 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. The personal representative or curator has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent’s death by the decedent or the decedent’s surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss. 732.216-732.228 applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by the surviving spouse or a beneficiary as specified under s. 732.2211.
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 July 26, 2024
Attorney for Personal Representative
Alecia C. Daniel adh@genesislawpa.com
Florida Bar No. 36955
1860 SW Fountainview, Suite 100
Port St Lucie, FL 34986
Telephone: (772) 539-9831
Personal Representative KIM WALLACE CROSS 1005 Ferncliffe Lane West Chester, PA 19380
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION IN RE: ESTATE OF JONATHAN M. PARSON, Deceased. FILE NO.: 2024-CP-1737 NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of JONATHAN M. PARSON, deceased, whose date of death was June 7, 2024; is pending in the Circuit Court for Marion County, Florida, Probate Division; File Number 2024-CP-1737; the address of which is 110 N.W. 1st Avenue, Ocala, Florida 34475. The names and addresses of the Co-Personal Representatives and the Co-Personal Representatives’ attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons, who have claims or demands against decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, and who have been served a copy of this Note, must file their claims with this Court WITHIN THE LATER OF THREE (3) MONTHS AFTER THE DATE 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 who have claims or demands against the decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, must file their claims with this court, WITHIN THREE (3) MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT SO FILED 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
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION File No. 2024-CP-001546 Division PROBATE IN RE: ESTATE OF SHARON K. HAGEN, Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of SHARON K. HAGEN , deceased, whose date of death was April 3, 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for Marion County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 110 NW 1st 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 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 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 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 PERIOD SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT'S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.
A personal representative or curator has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent's death by the decedent or the decedent's surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in Florida Statutes Sections 732.216732.228 applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under Florida Statutes Section 732.2211. The date of first publication of this notice is: August 2, 2024.
AMBER MCCOY
Personal Representative 86388 Sand Hickory Trail Yulee, FL 32097
STEPHEN P. HOLMGREN
Attorney for Personal Representative Florida Bar No. 117761 Purcell, Flanagan, Hay & Greene 1548 Lancaster Terrace Jacksonville, FL 32204 Telephone: (904) 355-0355 Email: sholmgren@pfhglaw.com Secondary Email: twood@pfhglaw.com
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT, FIFTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA
IN RE: ESTATE OF CASE NO: 42-2023-CP-2668
RICHARD EUGENE MCINTYRE Division PROBATE Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of RICHARD EUGENE MCINTYRE, deceased, File Number 42-2023-CP-2668, is pending in the Circuit Court of Marion County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is P.O. Box 1030, Ocala, FL 34478. 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, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, on whom a copy of this notice is served must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 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, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, 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 DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.
The date of first publication of this Notice is August 2, 2024.
____/S/ Edward McIntyre Edward McIntyre Personal Representative
____/S/ Brian Laird Brian Laird, Esq. Attorney for Personal Representative Florida Bar No.: 103919 Laird Law, P.A. 1027 E. Fort King Street, Ste 9 Ocala, FL 34471 (352) 325-92519
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION IN RE: ESTATE OF PHILIP EUGENE COX, JR. File No. 2024-CP1914
Division PROBATE
Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of PHILIP EUGENE COX, JR., deceased, File Number is 2024-CP-1914 pending in the Circuit Court for Marion County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 110 NW 1st Avenue, Ocala FL 34475. The estate is Intestate. 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, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, on whom a copy of this notice is served must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 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, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT SO FILED WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. The date of first publication of this Notice is August 2, 2024.
Attorney for Personal Representative: PAUL J. GUILFOIL 23 SE 12 th Ter. Ocala, Florida 34471
Personal Representative: VIRGINIA L. GARRETT 4501 NE 12 th Ave Ocala FL 34479
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA. IN RE: THE ESTATE OF MARGARET J. NASSIF, Deceased. CASE NO: 2024-CP-1761 NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The name of the decedent, the designation of the court in which the administration of this estate is pending, and the file number are indicated above. The address of the court is 110 N.W. 1st Avenue, Ocala, FL 34475. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are indicated below. If you have been served with a copy of this notice and you have any claim or demand against the decedent’s estate, even if that claim is unmatured, contingent or unliquidated, you must file your claim with the court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF A DATE THAT IS 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER YOU RECEIVE A COPY OF THIS NOTICE. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons who have claims or demands against the decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, must file their claims with the court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT SO FILED WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. EVEN IF A CLAIM IS NOT BARRED BY THE LIMITATIONS DESCRIBED ABOVE, ALL CLAIMS WHICH HAVE NOT BEEN FILED WILL BE BARRED TWO YEARS AFTER DECEDENT’S DEATH. The date of death of the decedent is: May 26, 2024. The date of first publication of this Notice is August 2, 2024.
Attorney for Personal Representative: JOSHUA L. MOSES Richard & Moses, LLC Florida Bar No. 119304 808 E Fort King Street Ocala, FL 34471 (352) 369-1300 Primary Email: Josh@RMProbate.com
Personal Representative: JOSEPHINE MURPHY 8298 E. Fairway Loop Inverness, 34450
NOTICE OF A SCHOOL BOARD
ADMINISTRATIVE BRIEFING AND WORK SESSION
Notice is hereby given that the School Board of Marion County, Florida, will meet in a work session on August 15, 2024, at 9:00 a.m. The meeting will be held at the MTI Auditorium, 1614 E. Ft. King Street, Ocala, Florida, 34471. An agenda will be published seven days prior to the meeting and may be obtained at the Administration Office between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. The agenda is also available from a link on the District’s website: www. marionschools.net.
NOTICE OF ACTION
CONSTRUCTIVE SERVICE PROPERTY IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 5TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OF FLORIDA, IN AND FOR MARION COUNTY CIVIL ACTION NO: 24CA000778AX Civil Division OWNERS IN RE: RAINBOW SPRINGS PROPERTY ASSCIATION, INC., a Florida non-profit Corporation, Plaintiff, VS. MARTA FLORES; UNKNOWN SPOUSE OF MARTA FLORES, et al. Defendant(s), TO: MARTA FLORES LAST UNKNOW ADDRESS: 100 W 93RD STREET, APT. 9C, NEW YORK, NY 10025 NOTICE FOR PUBLICATION YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that an action to foreclose a lien on the following property in MARION County, Florida: LOT 016, BLOCK 178, RAINBOW SPRINGS, FIFTH REPLAT, ACCORDING To the plat THEREOF AS RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK T, PAGES 46-59 OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA. A lawsuit has been filed against you and you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any to it on FLORIDA COMMUNITY LAW GROUP, P.L., Attorney for RAINBOW SPRINGS PROPERTY OWNERS ASSCIATION, INC., whose address is P.O. Box 292965, Davie, FL 33329-2965 and file the original with the clerk of the above styled court on or before SEPTEMBER 6TH, 2024 (30 days from the first date of publication, whichever is later); otherwise a default will be entered against you for the relief prayed for in the complaint or petition. This notice shall be published once a week for two consecutive weeks in The Ocala Gazette (Newspaper). 22ND WITNESS my hand and the seal of said court at MARION County, Florida on this day of JULY 2024. Florida Community Law Group, P.L. Cassandra Racine-Rigaud, Esq. P.O. Box 292965 Davie, FL 33329-2965 Phone: (954) 372-5298 Fax: (866) 424-5348
GREGORY C HARRELL As Clerk, Circuit Court MARION County, Florida By: Bibl K OF COURT AND ROLLE As Deputy Clerk MARION COUNTY FLORIDA Email: jared@flclg.com Fla Bar No.: 0450065
Electronically Filed Marion Case # 24CA000778AX 07/01/2024 12:53:17 PM
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA IN RE: ESTATE OF LEONARD BARRINER PROBATE DIVISION File No. 2024-CP-1392 Division PROBATE Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of Leonard Barriner, deceased, whose date of death was October 29, 2022, is pending in the Circuit Court for Marion County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 110 NW 1st Ave #1, Ocala, FL 34471. 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 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 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 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 08/02/2024.
Attorney for Personal Representative: Personal Representative: /s/ R. Kevin Sharbaugh R. Kevin Sharbaugh, Attorney Florida Bar Number: 86240 DOUGLAS LAW FIRM 117 N. 2nd Street Palatka, FL 32177 Telephone: (386) 530-2955 Fax: (386) 385-5914
E-Mail: Kevin@dhclawyers.com
Secondary E-Mail: AmandaH@ dhclawyers.com Leonard Barriner, Jr. 329 Monlandil Drive Wilmington, North Carolina 28403
IN THE PROBATE COURT FIFTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF HORRY
CASE NO: 2024-GC-26-00040
Ashley Bines, Petitioner, Vs Shariyah Lisbon, Gloria Lisbon SUMMONS & PETITION APPOINTMENT OF CONSERVATOR To: Gloria Lisbon You are hereby summoned and required To answer this Petition, a copy of which Is hereby served upon you, and to serve a copy of your Answer to the said Petition on the attorney for the Petitioner at 1121 Third Avenue, Conway, SC 29526 and file the original With the Horry County Probate Court, Post Office Box 288, Conway, SC 29528, Within thirty (30) days after the serve Thereof, exclusive of the day of such Service; and if you fail to do so, the Petitioner will apply to the court For the relief demanded in the Petition. LAW OFFICES L. MORGAN MARTIN. P.A. Mary Ashley Martin, Esq. 1121 Third Avenue Conway, SC 29526 Telephone: 843-248-3177
No. 2024-CP-1014 IN RE: ESTATE OF LUCY LORETTA ASHWOOD Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of LUCY LORETTA ASHWOOD, deceased, whose date of death was September 24, 2023, is pending in the Circuit Court for MARION County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 110 N.W. 1st Avenue, #1, Ocala, Florida 34471. 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 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 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 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 July 26, 2024.
Personal Representative: Delbert Thompson Attorney for Personal Representative: SHANTA MATTHEWS, Attorney Florida Bar Number: 69935 814 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Suite D OCALA, FL 34470 Telephone: (352) 421-8722 Fax: (352) 306-3759 E-Mail: shanta@smatthewslaw.com Secondary: lori@smatthewslaw.com
to
scribed below
individuals listed below at the location indicated: 2020 SW 57th Ave, Ocala FL, 34474 on August 20, 2024 12:00PM (352) 663.9555 Jaime Salcedo - Household goods, Ebony Adams - Sofa, TV, toddler bed, small dresser, extra toys/items that can't be stored at my parent's home Purchases must be made with cash only and paid at the above facility to complete the transaction. The auction will be listed and advertised on www.storagetreasures. com. Extra Space Storage may refuse any bid and may rescind any purchase up until the winning bidder takes possession of the personal property.
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA. IN RE: THE ESTATE OF KENNETH H. FRANDSEN, Deceased. CASE NO: 2024-CP-1762 NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The name of the decedent, the designation of the court in which the administration of this estate is pending, and the file number are indicated above. The address of the court is 110 N.W. 1st Avenue, Ocala, FL 34475. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are indicated below. If you have been served with a copy of this notice and you have any claim or demand against the decedent’s estate, even if that claim is unmatured, contingent or unliquidated, you must file your claim with the court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF A DATE THAT IS 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER YOU RECEIVE A COPY OF THIS NOTICE.
All other creditors of the decedent and other persons who have claims or demands against the decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, must file their claims with the court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT SO FILED WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. EVEN IF A CLAIM IS NOT BARRED BY THE LIMITATIONS DESCRIBED ABOVE, ALL CLAIMS WHICH HAVE NOT BEEN FILED WILL BE BARRED TWO YEARS AFTER DECEDENT’S DEATH.
The date of death of the decedent is: June 4, 2024. The date of first publication of this Notice is August 2, 2024.
Attorney for Personal Representative: JOSHUA L. MOSES Richard & Moses, LLC Florida Bar No. 119304 808 E Fort King Street Ocala, FL 34471 (352) 369-1300 Primary Email: Josh@RMProbate.com
Personal Representative: GARY C. FRANDSEN 269 Brown Bear Run Saint Johns, FL 32259
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE TENTH
JUDICIAL CIRCUIT
IN AND FOR POLK COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION
File No. 2024-CP-1411
IN RE: ESTATE OF JERRY MAGNESS
Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of JERRY MAGNESS, deceased, whose date of death was March 2, 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for POLK County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 930 E. Parker Street, Room 240, Lakeland, Florida 33801. 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 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 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 3 MONTHS
AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE.
ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORI-
DA 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 July 26, 2024.
Personal Representative: DELBERT THOMPSON
Attorney for Personal Representative: SHANTA MATTHEWS, Attorney
Florida Bar Number: 69935
814 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Suite D OCALA, FL 34470
Telephone: (352) 421-8722
Fax: (352) 306-3759
E-Mail: shanta@smatthewslaw.com
Secondary: lori@smatthewslaw.com
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION File No. 2024-CP-1453
IN RE: ESTATE OF JAMES WILLIAM WEBB, JR. Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of JAMES WILLIAM WEBB, JR., deceased, whose date of death was January 4, 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for MARION County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 110 N.W. 1st Avenue, #1, Ocala, Florida 34471. 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 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 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 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 July 26, 2024.
Personal Representative: VICKI WEBB
Attorney for Personal Representative: SHANTA MATTHEWS, Attorney Florida Bar Number: 69935
814 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Suite D OCALA, FL 34470
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