Ocala Gazette | November 3 - November 9, 2023 by Magnolia Media Company

Check out our Calendar listings NOVEMBER 3 - NOVEMBER 9, 2023

VOLUME 4 ISSUE 44

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End of PROTECTING THE CHILDREN an era The doors closed Oct. 28 on the Ocala Jai Alai Fronton in Orange Lake, more recently known as Ocala Gainesville Poker and Jai Alai.

[Illustration by Amy Harbert]

The sign for the new Ocala Bets is shown across the street from Ocala International Airport at the Ocala Breeders’ Sales Company on Southwest 60th Avenue in Ocala on Saturday, Oct. 28, 2023. [Bruce Ackerman/ Ocala Gazette] 2023.

By Andy Fillmore andy@ocalagazettec.com

cala Gainesville Poker and Jai Alai, which has been operating in the Ocala Jai Alai Fronton, a longtime landmark in Orange Lake, about 15 miles north of Ocala, ceased operations Oct. 28. County records indicate the property was transferred from Lake Fron, Inc. to Ocala Breeders’ Sales (OBS) Real Estate Holdings, LLC, in 2016. A message on the Ocala Gainesville Poker website invites patrons to visit Ocala Bets, which is set to open soon at 1781 SW 60th Ave., east of the Ocala International Airport. The new gaming room will offer “poker Vegas-style games and more,” with 35 card tables, according to ocala.bets.com. OBS intertrack wagering is also in the Southwest 60th Avenue complex. “We would like to thank our loyal patrons for your patience during this process. We hope to see you soon at Ocala Bets,” states a pop-up flier on ocalagainesvillepoker.com, noting that an opening date for Ocala Bets will be announced soon. According to jai-alai.info, the Ocala fronton, at 4601 W. County Road 318, Orange Lake, was opened in 1973 “by the operators of the Miami fronton as a branch office and was one of 15 to 20 frontons doing business in the United States at that time.” The shuttering of operations at the fronton, which county record state covers 62,238-square-feet, is the end of an era, according to Ginny Britton, who worked there from See End, page A2

A new initiative by Kimberly’s Center for Child Protection will enhance ongoing efforts to combat the online exploitation of youth. By Andy Fillmore andy@ocalagazette.com

n 2022, electronic service providers nationwide turned in 31.8 million reports of possible online exploitation of children, including child sexual abuse material (CSAM), trafficking and enticement. Data from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) states that 21.9 million of the tips were related to child pornography. The same year, Facebook made more than 21 million CyberTipline reports, Instagram logged over 5 million and Google more than 2.1 million,

according to a NCMEC report. The public made 256,504 reports to the tip line. The national numbers and cases reported locally are in part behind Kimberly’s Center for Child Protection’s plans to expand facilities and partnerships with law enforcement. The specially trained staff at Kimberly’s Center, together with the Florida Department of Children and Families and local law enforcement, provide a safe, child-friendly environment for children to talk about their abuse and begin healing. The nonprofit has a campus at 2800 NE 14th St., Ocala. The agency plans to add 4,900 square feet of floor space at the center

for “preventive, investigative and treatment services” and law enforcement partnerships aimed at creating “additional safety nets for our children and families” and joint projects with law enforcement. The Marion County Sheriff ’s Office (MCSO) and Ocala Police Department (OPD) are members of the North Florida Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, part of a nationwide group of 61 task forces involving 5,230 law enforcement agencies, which was established in 1998 by the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP). The See Protecting, page A2

Noted Ocala developer dies at 71

Albert Peek Sr. founded an appraisal company, real estate brokerage firm and several investment companies. He was a co-founder of the Country Club of Ocala. By Susan Smiley-Height susan@magnoliamediaco.com

here’s a real good chance that the first thing Albert Peek said when he got to Heaven was, “Good morning, world!” Even during his battles with glioblastoma, and multiple myeloma before that, Peek kept a positive spirit and a sign in his front yard bearing those very words. And to make sure everyone got the message, he often would start his mornings by stepping outside and shouting “Good morning, world!” just for good measure. Albert Bryce Peek Sr., who died Oct. 27, was well known in Ocala for his business entities, involvement with nonprofits and professional organizations, love of family and deep devotion to the Florida Gator football and basketball teams. He was born Nov. 30, 1951, and still lived in the home

in which he grew up. He passed away surrounded by Marilyn, his wife of more than 40 years, and their children, Audrey, Albert Jr. and Lex. “It’s bittersweet and we’re going to miss him here, but we know where he is,” said Audrey Peek McGuinness. “About 10 years ago, he was diagnosed with multiple myeloma, a blood cancer. The survival rate was very low, so we did not expect him to live through that. He did, he beat all the odds. He got through that and two years ago was diagnosed with glioblastoma, a very aggressive brain tumor. He would joke and say, ‘I don’t know why I get to run this race twice, but we’re gonna do it.’” In recalling her father’s early life in Ocala, McGuinness said his dad was a physician here and his grandfather was “the original horse and buggy doctor for Ocala.” “My parents live in the house that See Albert, page A6

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Ocala businessman Albert Peek also was an avid pilot. [Submitted]

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NOVEMBER 3 - NOVEMBER 9, 2023 | OCALA GAZETTE

Protecting children Continued from page A1 Gainesville Police Department is the host agency for the 38 member counties of the North Florida ICAC Task Force. “This ICAC initiative that directly partners Kimberly’s Center with local law enforcement will provide increased training and awareness to parents and youth to assist in not just intervention strategies, but also prevention,” said Dawn Westgate, Kimberly’s Center executive director. A press release from the center stated that funds from the 2023 Give4Marion fundraising campaign, which took place Sept. 19 and 20, would go toward “training and support for law enforcement, DCF and caregivers; education and community awareness activities; victim-related services such as trauma counseling and safety planning; increase technology capacity to assist in sexual abuse cases with technology-facilitated overlay.” “Child sexual abuse has longlasting implications for its victims,’’ Westgate said. “Sexual abuse survivors deal with a host of shortand long-term consequences, making mental health treatment critical in the aftermath of the investigation. What we see with our child sexual abuse survivors who are also victims of CSAM is that their journey to healing is further complicated by the knowledge that the images of their victimization have often been distributed. This element often compounds their trauma.”

Local and national data

The ICAC task force has reviewed some 7 million reports of online child exploitation, resulting in more than 134,000 arrests, according to the OJJDP. The MCSO provided the following data from the ICAC Initiative Commander for combined MCSO and OPD Cyber Tips and related arrests: • In 2020, there were 199 Cyber Tips; eight resulted in arrests by MCSO. • In 2021, there were 469 Cyber Tips; seven resulted in arrests by MCSO. • In 2022, there were 656 Cyber Tips; six resulted in arrests by MCSO or OPD. • In 2023, MCSO had received 403 Cyber Tips at the time of the report; 43 of those had been investigated and four resulted in an arrest by MCSO or OPD, with the remaining 360 tips still under investigation. On Feb. 23, the MCSO arrested a 72-year-old Summerfield man on 25 counts of possessing 10 or more images of child pornography, or CSAM, that was obtained through the internet. The arresting investigator, Major Crimes Unit Cpl. Chase King, determined the defendant

had printed out more than 220,000 images—or about 2,600 pounds— of child pornography material, according to the arrest document. Another local CSAM case handled by King involved a 47-yearold Silver Springs man arrested on Oct. 4 and charged with 20 counts of possessing 10 or more images of child pornography depicting scenes of sex acts involving prepubescent and toddler-aged females and adults, according to the arrest document. The case was originally referred to MCSO by a special agent with Homeland Security Investigations, who had placed an “undercover ad” on social media looking for a “teacher for an inexperienced” young girl. The Silver Springs man responded to the ad, offered sexually oriented education for a “13-yearold girl,” and asked questions aimed at “grooming the fictitious female to be sexually abused by the caregiver,” the arrest document indicates. Legal steps were taken to locate the electronic service provider and internet service provider user and King obtained a search warrant for the defendant’s home, where a laptop and Nokia 8 cellphone were found, which contained a “large collection” of CSAM, the arrest document states. The man admitted he was the “owner and sole user” of the two electronic devices but denied “possessing or viewing” the child pornography material, according to the arrest documents. He was arrested and jailed in lieu of $100,000 bail. An Oct. 18 OPD press release announced the arrest earlier in the month of a 27-year-old federal corrections officer for “possessing child pornography.” It noted that a detective initiated an investigation after receiving a Cyber Tip from the NCMEC that an online account contained media files with child sexual abuse material. A U.S. Department of Justice paper on Cyber Tips and prosecution, also provided by the MCSO, states that electronic service providers are required to generate a Cyber Tip when an “apparent case” of CSAM has taken place. The paper states the number of Cyber Tips rose from 76,603 in 2016 to 340,342 in 2021 and notes the resources and complexity involved in investigation and prosecution. The extensive report discusses the importance of using a certified child forensic interviewer in speaking with a victim and the challenges of gathering evidence from sources abroad. The paper covers trial and post-conviction issues and describes the Amy, Vicky and Andy Child Pornography Victim Assistance Act of 2018, which is tied to restitution for victims of CSAM.

Ongoing monitoring

Jeff Walczak, OPD’s public information officer, said his

department has two detectives dedicated to ICAC cases. “The ICAC Unit receives cyber tips from different digital platforms on a daily basis. These tips undergo thorough investigation using various techniques to determine whether there is any criminal activity taking place within our jurisdiction. If a criminal violation has been established, further investigation is conducted to determine the location and the identity of the individuals involved,” he wrote. “Furthermore, the ICAC unit conducts undercover chat operations on various social media platforms to identify individuals who are actively seeking communication with children to solicit sexual activity,” Walczak added. “At times, our detectives get calls from School Resource Officers in schools about troubling content found on students’ phones and we view these situations as valuable opportunities to engage with parents and children and provide education. Additionally, during investigations, we offer advice to parents and connect them with the ICAC task force website for more resources to foster open family communication and safer online experiences. We have also shared ICAC task force information and tips on our Facebook page,” he noted. Kevin Christian, director of public relations for Marion County Public Schools, stated that the organization “limits access to the internet with devices connected to our network; we cannot control what students access on their own devices on their own time.” “We offer cyber security training and on-going education to our students, parents, and families to protect themselves through guest presenters, computer specialists, and classroom conversations. We encourage families to regularly discuss online safety and for parents to monitor their children’s digital footprints, including social media,” he wrote. Westgate said education and awareness “are the best defenses against internet crimes against children” and that the enhanced “collaboration seeks to provide our community with these tools.” “This group of programs support the victims and strengthens the criminal cases to support and protect children and teens in our community,” she stated.

To learn more about Kimberly’s Center for Child Protection, go to kimberlyscenter.org Access the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children Cyber Tip line at report. cybertip.org or the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline at childhelphotline.org

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NOVEMBER 3 - NOVEMBER 9, 2023 | OCALA GAZETTE

End of an era

YOUR HOME CAN HELP - FLORIDA CREDIT UNION’S HOME EQUITY LINE OF CREDIT -

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The Ocala Jai-Alai building is shown in Orange Lake on Friday, Oct. 27, 2023. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2023.

Continued from page A1 1982 to 1987 and 1992 until 2007. Britton recalls visiting the fronton with her grandmother in the late 1970s. She said a jai alai player from Miami known as “Joey” was a sensation in the earlier days of the fronton and that the live play was “seasonal.” “It was a hot spot,” Britton said, describing a “reservations only” restaurant in the building, regular concerts, wresting events and .50 cent beers in later years which attracted a big crowd. She also remembered the local high school graduations that were held at the facility. Then, Britton said, “Lotto came along.”

Dale Popp worked at the fronton from around 1973 until 2007 and held positions from “ticket puncher” to manager. He also became a jai alai player and played at a number of frontons in the region under his first name. Popp recalled “packed crowds” at the local fronton to watch live jai alai, a sport he calls “beautiful (and) fascinating.” Popp said by 2007 he was transferred by OBS to the intertrack wagering operation, where he remained until 2012. He said by 2007 at the fronton, the card room had become the “main focus” of the business. “Jai alai had evolved into a sideshow,” he said. “It’s a shame it’s gone.” Officials with Ocala Breeders’ Sales did not respond to requests for comment.

DELUCA TOYOTA CELEBRATES 45 YEARS

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Brent Sergot, president of Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC, and executive VP of JM Family Enterprises, presents Frank DeLuca with a trophy commemorating DeLuca Toyota’s 45 years of service. [Courtesy of DeLuca Toyota]

Staff report

eLuca Toyota, founded in October 1978 by Frank DeLuca, recently celebrated its 45th anniversary. The dealership, located at 1719 SW College Road, Ocala, started as a modest two-car showroom but has grown significantly over the years. “It looked like the middle of the woods with oak trees all over. It was a two-lane highway, you could park on the side of the road, and it was just totally different,” DeLuca recalled of the early days in a press release. Now, DeLuca Toyota encompasses a 24-acre facility with a 51-bay service center, on-site collision center, hair and nail salon, rooftop putting green and other amenities. The dealership team has grown to 186 members.

“We have served three generations of families since 1978. The DeLuca difference means treating everyone as an honored guest in our home; you’ll notice that difference the moment you walk through our doors,” DeLuca noted in the release. DeLuca Toyota has a long history of supporting the community and has contributed more than $11 million to various causes. Beneficiaries include the Frank DeLuca YMCA, American Cancer Society, American Heart Association, Give4Marion, Trinity Catholic School, Habitat for Humanity, Boys & Girls Club of Marion County, Second Harvest Food Bank, Interfaith Emergency Services, the College of Central Florida and many others. “Giving back to

The early days of DeLuca Toyota. [Submitted]

the community is not only a privilege but a responsibility. When you look beyond yourself to meet someone else’s needs, that’s where philanthropy starts. Giving back not only feels good but is the right thing to do,” DeLuca said in the release. “Frank is a perfect representation of the Toyota brand. He takes care of his customers, gives back to his community, and has been a fantastic dealer for the last 45 years. We are proud that he represents the Toyota brand in Ocala, Florida,” Brent Sergot, president of Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC, and executive VP of JM Family Enterprises, said in the release.

To learn more, go to delucatoyota.com

DeLuca Toyota in Ocala. [Submitted]

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NOVEMBER 3 - NOVEMBER 9, 2023 | OCALA GAZETTE

West Port to end Early College Magnet Program as CF prepares to open Collegiate Academy By Caroline Brauchler caroline@ocalagazette.com

ince 2006, students at West Port High School have had the unique opportunity to take college classes while still attending their own high school. Now, the school is ending the program in favor of a new style of collegelevel learning. The Early College Magnet Program at WPHS allowed students to take college classes either online or in person at the high school as part of a partnership between Marion County Public Schools and the College of Central Florida. The program will now be phased out with the implementation of the Collegiate Academy, which will expand dual enrollment districtwide to offer associate in science degrees in addition to the previously offered associate in arts degrees. Starting with the class of 2028, eighth grade students will be eligible to apply to the academy to attend high school for grades nine and 10 and then become a fulltime dual enrollment student attending classes at the CF Ocala campus for grades 11 and 12, according to CF. This change, however, leaves many WPHS students in limbo. The classes of 2025, 2026 and 2027 will be phased out of the Early College program but ineligible to enter the Collegiate Academy, even though many students attend West Port specifically for the magnet program. At West Port, there are currently 588 students enrolled in the program. Now, no additional students will be able to apply to be part of the school’s program. “For current (WPHS) students enrolled in the Early College Program, ninth and 10th graders may continue and complete the program via online courses offered at WPHS,” wrote MCPS spokesperson Kevin Christian. “11th graders may continue and complete the program on the CF campus in 2024-2025 with transportation provided and with breakfast and lunch

provided by MCPS.” Lisa Lombardo, a parent of a sophomore and senior in the Early College Program at West Port, said that for her children, Early College was a much preferable option compared to regular dual enrollment. “Dual enrollment compared to Early College is not the same as having teachers on site who are able to facilitate these classes (they are) accredited to do,” she said. One of the draws of Early College was that students could stay at West Port for four years rather than attending CF for junior and senior year while taking high school classes online, Lombardo said. “I’m not impressed that that is the option that Marion County schools is giving high school students, that they can take their high school classes online if they’re serious about being committed to earning their associate degree,” she said. Lombardo’s children are zoned for Forest High School, but instead travel over 25 minutes to West Port every day to be a part of the magnet program. She said she wishes that even though the college is introducing a new program, that the students currently enrolled in Early College would have been able to complete the program rather than being phased out. “Even if it was baked in and it was going to happen, I wish they would have at least considered the impact on students and parents and involve them in the conversation going into it,” she said. “That might have been at least a strategic way to mitigate a little bit of the reaction that’s happening now.” After these remaining students are phased out, the district will completely switch over to their new program for dual enrollment learning. The Collegiate Academy will be a unique opportunity for the district, however, with expanded access to fields of study “all at no cost to the student or family,” according to CF. “We are excited about this expansion

of dual enrollment to include an even work experiences with local employers greater number of programs and degrees,” through apprenticeships, shadowing and said CF President Jim Henningsen in a internships, according to CF. press release. “While students have been CF partners with the majority of able to complete courses leading to an Florida’s public, four-year universities so associate in arts for many years, students that students may transfer to continue in workforce programs can now benefit by their education, in addition to those completing high school and college credits in the CF Honors program having at the same time.” “guaranteed acceptance into the UCF Some of the new programs to be offered Burnett Honors College.” for dual enrollment through the academy While expanding opportunities to will include agribusiness, criminal justice, pursue higher education are sure to open emergency medical services, equine many doors for Marion County students, studies, engineering and nursing, among West Port must close the door for a chapter others, according to CF. that has served students for 17 years. “Students pursuing limited-access “Anything like this that’s going to programs such as nursing may complete give students access to higher education, all required prerequisites for a seamless especially for students who may not have transition into the associate in science considered it…is great, I just don’t know program upon high school graduation, why it had to be an ‘or’ and not an ‘and,’” according to the press release. Lombardo said. Many of these associate in science degrees could launch a student directly into a career upon completion, said MCPS Superintendent Diane Gullett in the press release. Traditional dual enrollment options are still available to students in the district, but the Collegiate Academy will also give students the File photo: Shown in a slow exposure, students leave West Port High School in Ocala chance to get in-person after the last bell on Wednesday, May 10, 2023. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2023.

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NOVEMBER 3 - NOVEMBER 9, 2023 | OCALA GAZETTE

OPINION

Project causes concern for supporters of Cross Florida Greenway

[Submitted]

By Clif Edwards Founder of Greenway Guardians

n September, I learned that Duke Energy is considering putting tall steel towers, connected by high-voltage electrical lines in the Cross Florida Greenway. In a world of diminishing greenspace, this cannot be good for the quality of life of Greenway visitors, our community, and the native creatures and plants that live there, some of which are threatened and endangered. You should also know that Duke Energy is considering other routes that are existing utility/transportation corridors. The Greenway Guardians, a grassroots group, believe this is where future electrical needs can be met responsibly, not by exploiting a resource that cannot be replaced. So why would Duke Energy threaten such a precious resource? Most likely it is the cheapest route, best serving their stockholders. The Cross Florida Greenway is a 110-mile-long linear park, about a mile wide, and was the first in the country to have a Landbridge across an expressway to serve people and wildlife. It is not Disney World, but it is the real Florida, known far and wide and a boon to the economy. In 2021, it was said to annually have 1.5 million visitors and an economic impact exceeding $100 million. The Greenway Guardians is newly formed and has no funding. In contrast, Duke Energy is very experienced in selling its goals and has deep pockets to do so. It appears regulations required Duke Energy to notify residents who would be within 500’ of these high voltage electrical lines and provide them an “informational open house.” There, empathetic listening and gladhanding prevailed, and attendees were encouraged to submit comment forms for Duke to consider. Having first notified residents in September 2023, Duke Energy set a Nov. 17, 2023, deadline for public comment, leaving little time to form a formidable Greenway defense. Additionally, Duke has made no effort to notify the Greenway’s largest stakeholder, the

visitor. Five hours of polling visitors at two trailheads (Landbridge & 49th Street) did not yield one visitor who was aware of Duke’s proposed plan. A suggestion to Duke to place an informational sign with a QR code at trailheads has been ignored. Concerned citizens are encouraged to go to the Duke Energy Ross Prairie to Shaw website (duke-energy.com/ our-company/about-us/electrictransmission-projects/ross-prairieto-shaw) and complete the comment sheet, notify elected state officials of their feelings, and sign a petition in opposition. Here are six reasons the Greenway Guardians are opposed to compromising the Greenway: 1. Greenspace is a valued commodity for any community and the Greenway is part of what makes Marion County such a desirable place to live and visit. While you may, or may not know about the Greenway, it is known by many. This is substantiated by it being the most visited state park in Florida. Visitors include people of all ages and cultures—with cyclists, hikers, backpackers, campers, equestrians, dog walkers, and families with their children in strollers—solid evidence that it serves the “greater good.” 2. The habitat of the Greenway has enabled wildlife biologists to increase the numbers of the scrub jay (an endangered bird, native only to Florida) in the Greenway from eight in 2008 to 161 in 2023. 3. The Greenway is a sanctuary for gopher tortoises, a threatened species that enjoys little real protection because they like to build their homes where people do. You may be told they like making their burrow homes in the barren sand beneath the proposed electrical line, but you should also know they will have a difficult time foraging because the herbicides used for vegetation control will eliminate their food source. 4. You might find it interesting that currently in Florida, the government is funding a north-south wildlife corridor, known as O2O. The Cross Florida Greenway is an existing 110-mile-long, east-west wildlife corridor that the electrical lines would impede. 5. The Greenway currently serves as a safe haven for three native, threatened, and endangered plant species: Robin’s mint, Britton’s beargrass, and the three birds orchid. The proposed electrical lines would disrupt this protected area. 6. Disturbing reports of Duke Energy’s environmental stewardship. Greenway Guardians accept that increasing population increases electricity demands, but increasing population also increases pressure on existing greenspace, an important component of a desirable community. A past park manager of the Greenway is remembered as saying the Cross Florida Greenway will be to Marion County as Central Park (created in 1858) is to New York City. May we be so far-sighted.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING OCALA BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT The Ocala Board of Adjustment will consider the following petition at its meeting on Monday, November 20, 2023, commencing at 5:30 pm, in the City Council Chambers located on the Second Floor of City Hall at 110 SE Watula Avenue. The meeting may be viewed live by selecting it at https://www.ocalafl.gov/meetings. NORTHEAST Petitioner: Leppo, Inc.; Agent: Austin T. Dailey, Esq., Klein & Klein, LLC; Case: SE23-45398; A request to allow construction/farm equipment sales in M-1, Light Industrial, for property located at 1409 NE 8th Avenue (Parcel 26013-000-02); approximately 2.41 acres. SOUTHEAST Petitioner: Ladden Herrmann; Case: VAR22-44733; A request to reduce the rear yard setback from twenty-five (25) feet to three (3) feet to in R-3, Multi-Family Residential, for property located at 726 SE 3rd Street (Parcel 2820-029-004); approximately 0.22 acres. Petitioner: Natalie and Cody Wells; Case: VAR23-45353; A request to reduce the front yard setback from twenty-five (25) feet to twenty (20) feet in R-1, Single Family Residential, for property located at 1213 SE 3rd Street (Parcel 28372-006-01); approximately 0.37 acres. Petitioner: Sarah Lyn Williams; Agent: Jerry L. Stevens; Case: VAR23-45388; A request to reduce the rear yard setback from twenty-five (25) feet to five (5) feet and the street side yard setback from twenty-five (25) feet to twenty-four (24) feet in R-1, Single-Family Residential, for property located at 222 SE 13th Avenue (Parcel 28372-010-00); approximately 0.17 acres. Petitioner: Joseph Carvalho; Case: VAR23-45392; A request to reduce the front yard setback from twenty (20) feet to fifteen (15) feet and the rear yard setback from twenty-five (25) feet to fifteen (15) feet in R-3, Multi-Family Residential, for property located in the 700 block of SE 2nd Street (Parcel 2820-028-009); approximately 0.11 acres. SOUTHWEST Petitioner: Mist, LLC; Case: SE23-45359; A request to allow recreation facility, indoor in M-1, Light Industrial, for property located at 1521 SW 18th Avenue (Parcel 23656-015-02); approximately 6.39 acres. JEFF SHRUM, AICP DIRECTOR, GROWTH MANAGEMENT DEPARTMENT The agenda and material related to items on each agenda will be available in advance online at www.ocalafl.gov. Interested parties may appear at the meeting and be heard regarding their opinion of the proposed cases. Copies of the proposed cases are available and may be reviewed at the Growth Management Department, 201 SE 3rd Street, Second Floor, Ocala, telephone (352) 629-8404, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. If reasonable accommodations are needed for you to participate in this meeting, contact the Growth Management Department at (352) 629-8404, 48 hours in advance, so those arrangements can be made.

[Submitted]

Any person who decides to appeal any decision of the Ocala Board of Adjustment with respect to any matter considered at this meeting will need a record of the proceedings, and for such purpose may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made.

NOVEMBER 3 - NOVEMBER 9, 2023 | OCALA GAZETTE

Albert Peek Continued from page A1 my dad grew up in, and that whole block was owned by my great-grandfather. My great-aunt lived in the house next door, so that whole block was their homestead. She cried and cried when they bought that piece of property because it was so far from downtown. She said no one would ever come and see her and it would be the end of her social life. They’re on 5th Street! So that tells you how long ago that was, and that downtown Ocala was the central hub at that point,” McGuinness shared. McGuinness is the oldest sibling and said her father taught his children “respect for family.” “He taught me the importance of family sticking together. There is a Bible reference about a cord of three strands not being easily broken. He would demonstrate that for us, about always needing to stick together. I think that has never been more apparent than right now,” she said, her voice breaking. “I’m just so proud of—we call it Team Peek—because it truly was the four us surrounding his bedside and being there for him during his final weeks and days and I think that’s exactly what he would have wanted.” She said that, on a lighter note, her father was one of four boys and that there are “lots of stories about the Peek boys. They were a little wild.” She said respect for family had been instilled in her dad at a young age and that, “Those four boys felt the same way and stuck together to this day. He was the baby.” “He was always positive, which you’ll hear from everyone,” McGuinness added. “He did not have an easy life. He had a lot of medical issues. He was burned as a child, severely. He had, I think, six plastic surgeries between the ages of 8 and 12 and I’m sure it wasn’t easy growing up with your face covered in scars. But he exuded positivity in everything he did. Even with the latest battles, his faith was unrelenting— positiveness to the point of goofiness. We have that sign in the yard, and he would scream at the top of his lungs, ‘Good morning, world!’ That’s the way he greeted each day.” She said that about two months ago, just before her dad was to have a scan that be “indicative of the future, we held what we thought would be a small prayer vigil, but we had about 300 people on our front yard, and we had the sign up and it was so special because he got to see it.” “All those people showed up for him as he had touched their lives in some way,” she added. Peek graduated from Ocala High School in 1969. He attended the University of Florida as a collegiate swimmer and maintained a lifelong connection to his team members. He graduated with a degree in real estate finance and urban planning, then founded an appraisal company, the real estate brokerage firm Ocala Development and several investment companies. “He was a co-founder of the Country Club of Ocala, with John Rudnianyn and Duke West, which was probably one of his most notable endeavors,” McGuinness said. “I remember running on the dirt piles out there while it was being developed; there was nothing out there at that time. That was their baby for a long time.” Peek, who was a pilot and enjoyed boating and scuba diving, served on numerous boards and councils, including the Ocala Airport Advisory Board. Ocala International Airport Director Matthew Grow noted in a letter to the family that, “We all adored your dad and were deeply saddened by the news of his passing. He was an amazing person, pilot, and, for me, a mentor. He was a major proponent of expanding the Ocala airport and is partially responsible for the air traffic control tower, runway extensions and rehab, apron expansions and, to an extent, the new terminal building. His expertise in

land development was essential in the formation of the Airport Business Park and expansion of SW 67th Ave.” Peek also was involved with the YMCA, Rotary Club of Metropolitan Ocala, UF Letterman’s Association Board, Downtown Development Council, Marion County Chamber of Commerce, Ocala Board of Realtors, Florida Association of Realtors and National Association of Realtors. He served on advisory boards for several banks and was a founding board member of Gateway Bank of Central Florida. When he was in college, Kirk Boone interned with Albert Peek Realty and Investment Corporation, then began working with Peek doing real estate appraising, sales and developing. When they moved their office to the downtown square, they established Ocala Development as partners. “I was his business partner, but when we started, he was my boss and then we migrated to a friendship, like a big brother or second father,” Boone offered. “He was one of a kind. I was blessed to learn life lessons from him.” Boone said Peek exhibited peace and grace: “He led with love.” “Even his health concerns were like a gift,” Boone noted. “And then he showed even more grace and unbelievable strength and positivity. And not just to me; to a room full of people. He was like a disciple, and it was wonderful to watch him. I was the luckiest guy in the world to share an office with him for more than 35 years.” Of her father’s legacy in business and leadership, McGuinness said, “He was not wanting to change the way that Ocala feels, he just wanted to improve it and that was always a reassurance because I know developers get a bad rap, but he could not have cared more about this community, and he would do what was right for Ocala regardless of what that meant for him.” In addition to Marilyn, Peek is survived by Audrey (Darren), Albert “Bryce” Peek Jr. (Samantha Hall) and Alexander “Lex” Harris Peek; brothers, Gene (Kathie), Tommy (Lynda) and David (Cheryl) Peek; and grandchildren Kylee, Ryan and Landon Boyles, Harper McGuinness and Albert Bryce Peek III. A celebration of life for Peek will be held at 1 p.m. Nov. 6 at Meadowbrook Church at 4741 SW 20th St., Ocala. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, contributions be made to HUGS Charities or Hospice of Marion County. HUGS (Heartfelt Unconditional Giving) Charities was formed in 2009 by Michael Koontz and Manal Fakhoury to help people undergoing cancer treatment and experiencing financial hardship. HUGS provides temporary relief while helping find long-term financial solutions in partnership with The Cancer Alliance of Marion County. Funding comes primarily through an annual fundraiser, which recognizes a cancer survivor or someone who died from the disease, and individual donations. Peek was a childhood friend of Koontz and a former HUGS honoree. “The one thing that was constant with him was his unbelievable optimism in the face of every kind of adversity,” Koontz shared. “He was encouraging to other people and would always help others in the same situation. A lot of people, when they get cancer, are embarrassed to say it because they don’t want to burden others and I think they’re afraid. But Albert shared it.” Koontz recalled when his young friend was badly burned. “My parents were nearby and put him in the car and took him to the hospital,” he recalled. “Burns are terribly painful. They told him when they could do it, they would take him for some ice cream. He said, ‘Ah … can I have butter pecan?’ I may be wrong on the flavor, but it shows that even at an early age he was sure he was going to overcome his problems and he did; all of his life. He was just an eternal optimist and an incredible person.”

SUPPORT LOCAL JOURNALISM OUR MISSION IS TO INFORM AND UPLIFT OUR READERS BY REPORTING ON THE EVENTS, ISSUES AND STORIES THAT SHAPE OCALA WITH ACCURACY, FAIRNESS AND PASSION.

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Albert Peek is shown with his wife Marilyn and their extended family. [Submitted]

“… Developers get a bad rap, but he could not have cared more about this community, and he would do what was right for Ocala regardless of what that meant for him.”

Albert and Marilyn Peek. [Submitted]

Audrey Peek McGuinness

In addition to his business interests, Albert Peek loved boating and scuba diving. [Submitted]

LEFTOVER COOKING OIL OR GREASE? IT’S TIME TO COOL IT, CONTAIN IT, AND CAN IT. Cool - allow oil and grease to cool completely.

Contain - scrape it into a disposable container, like a tin can, cup, or plastic bag. Can - throw the container into a trash can.

COOKING OIL COLLECTION DAY

Monday, Nov. 27 | 7 a.m. - 2 p.m. Ocala Wetland Recharge Park

2105 NW 21st St., Ocala, FL 34475

For more information, scan the QR code or contact the City of Ocala Water Resources Department at 352-351-6772.

NOVEMBER 3 - NOVEMBER 9, 2023 | OCALA GAZETTE

Group honors community women Staff report

he nonprofit Women and Men of Purpose & Destiny Inc., hosted the 2023 Superwoman Awards on Oct. 21 at the Appleton Museum of Art in Ocala. “We honored amazing women of all cultures with backgrounds, ranging from the political arena, business owners, pastors, community advocates, educators and many more. Some of the women honored have served homeless and low-income populations by the thousands,” said Chrissy Vickers, CEO and founder of the nonprofit. “Our keynote speaker was Kelia Bazile, who is an author and the president of operations for the entire Carrabba’s Restaurant chain. She and her husband also own two restaurants in Ocala, JRocks Pizzeria and Blue Highway Pizzeria.” Those honored were: Rhea Chiles, Cheryl Thomas, Danielle Cherubin Kisha Burton-Hardy, Betti JeffersonGadson. Tara Woods, Angie Lester, Manal Fakhoury, Michaela Powell, Ahjanee Vereen-Piner, Maria Francese, Clovis Sawyer, Darnitha Johnson, Sherri Jackson, Mary Lou Todd, Tanjua Mays, Ann Joseph, Jeanne Henningsen, Marjorie Rodriguez, Bonnie Vitale, Sheila Ruotolo, Tyla Kennedy, Makita Harvey, Rhella Murdaugh, Danielle Wiggins, Kelia Bazile, Dede Vowell, Jena McClain-Woodyard, Kayla Palacios, Ann Brijbasu, Te’sha Jackson, Mary Sue Rich, Kim AveraWhitt and Jane Moerlie. Women and Men of Purpose & Destiny Inc., was organized in 2010. The nonprofit also hosts annual Superman Awards and Superkids Awards recognitions. To learn more, find the group on Facebook.

Honorees at the 2023 Superwoman Awards. [Olyve Branch Photography]

Chrissy Vickers, CEO and founder of Women and Men of Purpose & Destiny Incorporated. [Olyve Branch Photography]

Dance performance by Sheila Dance Academy. [Olyve Branch Photography]

Keynote speaker Kelia Bazile, author and president of operations for Carrabba’s Restaurants. [Olyve Branch Photography]

Strategic Community Alliance, Inc. presents

Gen�va Ocala Diwali Celebration – A Cross-Cultural Experience of India Citizens’ Circle, SE Osceola Ave, Ocala, FL 34471 on November 19, 2023; 11:30 am to 6:00 pm FREE FUN FAMILY EVENT – We encourage you to bring your own chairs to sit & enjoy the event.

11:30am – 6:00pm

Event open to the public – Music, Henna, Indian Food, Indian Clothes, Jewelry, Handicra�s, Fellowship

Healthcare shouldn’t be difficult.

Receive the care you deserve when you need it.

12:30pm – 1:00pm

Opening Ceremony American Na�onal Anthem & Indian Na�onal Anthem Welcome Remarks Dr. Sheni Meghani, President, Strategic Community Alliance, Inc. Mr. Pete Lee, City Manager, City of Ocala Mr. Mounir Bouyounes, County Administrator, Marion County Mr. Kevin Sheilley, President & CEO, Ocala Metro CEP Mr. Kerry Eck, Execu�ve Hospice Care Consultant, Gen�va Hospice

1:00pm – 1:30pm

Indian Cultural Performances – Classical, Folk, Bollywood Dance and Music

1:30pm – 1:45pm

Garba Dance Along – Some might ﬁnd it similar to Cha Cha Slide & Macarena

1:45pm – 2:30pm

India Trivia Quiz – Fun opportunity to learn about India’s history and culture

2:00pm – 5:00pm

Free Face Pain�ng for Children

2:30 pm – 3:00 pm

Indian Cultural Performances – Classical, Folk, Bollywood Dance and Music Bollywood and Garba Dance Along

3:00pm – 3:45pm

Saree Experience – Women from diverse ethnicities will wear sarees.

3:45pm – 4:00pm

Garba Dance Along – Some might ﬁnd it similar to Cha Cha Slide & Macarena

4:00pm – 4:30pm

Indian Cultural Performances – Classical, Folk, Bollywood Dance and Music Bollywood Dance Along

5:00pm – 5:45pm

Indian Fashion Show – Men & women models from diverse ethnici�es

5:45pm – 6:00pm

Closing Ceremony

Flag Sponsor

Schedule an appointment at your neighborhood VIPcare clinic!

(352) 204-0099

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Kut Diﬀerent, Inc. is our local partnering nonproﬁt organiza�on.

For more informa�on – www.scacommuni�es.org; shenimeghani@yahoo.com; 267.575.1227

NOVEMBER 3 - NOVEMBER 9, 2023 | OCALA GAZETTE Public Notice

Public Notice

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION IN RE: ESTATE OF EUGEN GHIURCA, Deceased. FILE NO.: 2023-CP-2230 NOTICE TO CREDITORS (Summary Administration) The administration of the estate of EUGEN GHIURCA, deceased, whose date of death was March 1, 2023; is pending in the Circuit Court of Marion County, Florida, Probate Division; File Number 2023-CP-2230; the address of which is 110 N.W. 1st Avenue, Ocala, Florida 34475. An Order of Summary Administration was entered on September 18, 2023, and the name and address of the person assigned control of the asset is CONSTANTA PIETRARU, 6233 S.E. 87th Street, Ocala, Florida 34472 , the partner and companion of the decedent, and her attorney is R. William Futch, R. William Futch, P.A., 2201 S.E. 30th Avenue, Suite 202, Ocala, Florida 34471. 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 THREE MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR THIRTY 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 unli uidated 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 THIS NOTICE IS OCTOBER 27, 2023. Attorneys for Petitioner: R. WILLIAM FUTCH Florida Bar No.: 0319856 DAVIS R. WATSON III Florida Bar No.: 117996 R. WILLIAM FUTCH, P.A. 2201 S. E. 30th Avenue Suite 202 Ocala, Florida 34471 (352) 732-8080 Email Address: bill@futchlaw.net

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION IN RE: ESTATE OF MARK D. OLIVER, Deceased. FILE NO.: 2023-CP-2485 NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of MARK D. OLIVER, deceased, whose date of death was September 25, 2023; is pending in the Circuit Court for Marion County, Florida, Probate Division; File Number 2023-CP-2485; the address of which is 110 N.W. 1st Avenue, Ocala, Florida 34475. The names and addresses of the Personal Representatives and the Personal Representatives’ attorneys 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 unli uidated 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 THIS NOTICE IS NOVEMBER 3, 2023. Personal Representatives: JESSICA T. OVERFELT 2118 S.E. 6th Terrace Ocala, FL 34471 THOMAS E. RHODES 1290 S.E. 91st Place Ocala, FL 34480 Attorneys for Personal Representatives: R. WILLIAM FUTCH Florida Bar No.: 0319856 DAVIS R. WATSON III Florida Bar No.: 117996 R. WILLIAM FUTCH, P.A. 2201 S. E. 30th Avenue Suite 202 Ocala, Florida 34471 (352) 732-8080 Email Address: bill@futchlaw.net

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA. IN RE: THE ESTATE OF STEVEN J. ZIEMBIENSKI, Deceased. CASE NO: 2023-CP-2489 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. . 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 unli uidated, 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 unli uidated 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 DEAT . The date of death of the decedent is: August 4, 2023. The date of first publication of this Notice is October 27, 2023.

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA Probate Division In Re: ESTATE OF RUTH McCANTS Deceased. File No. 2023-CP-2217 NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of RUTH MCCANTS, deceased, whose date of death was May 17, 2023, is pending in the Circuit Court for Marion County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 110 NW First Avenue, Ocala, Florida 34475. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative's attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent's estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 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 October 27, 2023. Debra McCants Russell Personal Representative 1785 Cedar Walk Lane Conley, Georgia 30288 COLLEEN M. DURIS, B.C.S. Attorney for Personal Representative Florida Bar Number: 975140 500 NE 8th Avenue Ocala, FL 34470 Telephone: (352) 732-7020 Fax: (352) 867-5111 E-Mail: service@ocalaelderlaw.com E-Mail: angie@ocalaelderlaw.com

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA

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 osh RMProbate.com Personal Representative LINDA WELCOME 11051 SW 75th Terrace Ocala, FL 3447

IN RE: ESTATE OF

PLEASANT H. GAY, III

The administration of the estate of Pleasant H. Gay, III, deceased, whose date of death was August 15, 2023, 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 re uired 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 IT IN 3 MONT S AFTER T E 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 November 3, 2023. Attorney for 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

Notice is hereby given that the Board of Directors of the Marion County School Board Leasing Corporation will immediately follow a special School Board organizational meeting scheduled for November 14, 2023 at 5:15 p.m.., at the Administration Office, 1 14 E. Ft. ing Street, Ocala, Florida 34471. The purpose of this special meeting is organization of the Board of Directors.

Notice is hereby given that the School Board of Marion County, Florida, will meet on November 14, 2023, at 5:30 p.m., at the School Board Administration Office, 1614 E. Ft. King Street, Ocala, Florida 34471. An agenda will be published seven days prior to the meeting. The agenda 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 Any person deciding to appeal any decifrom a link on the District’s website: www. sion made by the Board at the meeting will need a record of the proceedings, and, for marion. 12. .us. such purpose, may need to insure that Persons wishing to address the Board a verbatim record of the proceedings is should register with the Chairman prior to made, which record includes the testimony and evidence on which the appeal is 5:40 p.m. to be based. Any person deciding to appeal any decision made by the Board at the meeting will need a record of the proceedings, and, for such purpose, may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is NOTICE OF made, which record includes the testimo- SPECIAL SCHOOL BOARD MEETING

NOTICE UNDER FICTITIOUS NAME LAW PURSUANT TO SECTION 865.09, FLORIDA STATUTES NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that WHITTAKER, FELICIA will engage in business under the fictitious name HEARTSTONE HOMES, with a physical address 787 SE 125T STREET LOT 2 BELLE IE , FL 34420, with a mailing address PO BO 947 BELLE IE , FL 34420, and already registered the name mentioned above with the Florida Department of State, Division of Corporations.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned desiring to engage in business under fictious name of Empire Construction located at 910 NE 8th Avenue in the County of Marion in the City of Ocala, Florida 34470, intends to register the said name with the Division of Corporations of The Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida. Dated at Palm Beach Gardens, Florida this 25th, day of October, 2023. Owner, EMPIRE CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT, LLC

NOTICE UNDER FICTITIOUS NAME LAW PURSUANT TO SECTION 865.09, FLORIDA STATUTES NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that VVNN CORP/VINH NGUYEN will engage in business under the fictitious name NAIL SALON, with a physical address 4920 EAST SIL ER SPRINGS BLVD SUITE 107 OCALA, FL 34470, with a mailing address 4920 EAST SILVER SPRINGS BLVD SUITE 107 OCALA, FL 34470, and already registered the name mentioned above with the Florida Department of State, Division of Corporations.

Division Probate NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE OF SCHOOL BOARD MEETING

Marion County government proposes to construct a 250 ft. self-support public safety communications tower located at SW 59th Avenue Road, Ocala, Marion County, Florida. (29 00’ 07.71” N, 82 13’ 01.10” W). The anticipated tower lighting application is medium-intensity dual red/white strobes. Interested persons may review the application for this project at www.fcc. gov/asr/applications by entering Antenna Structure Registration (Form 854) File No. A1258583 . Environmental concerns may be raised by filing a Re uest for Environmental Review with the FCC. The FCC strongly encourages interested parties to file Re uests for Environmental Review online at www.fcc.gov/asr/environmentalre uest , but they may be filed with a paper copy by mailing the Re uest to FCC Re uests for Environmental Review, Attn ny and evidence on which the appeal is Ramon Williams, 445 12th Street SW, to be based. Washington, DC 20554.

File No. 2023-CP-2534

Deceased.

NOTICE OF MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS MARION COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD LEASING CORPORATION

Marion County government proposes to construct a 250 ft. self-support public safety communications tower located at 1750 NW 100th Street, Ocala, Marion County, Florida. (29 17’ 33.03” N, 82 09’ 20.15” W). The anticipated tower lighting application is medium-intensity dual red/white strobes. Interested persons may review the application for this project at www.fcc. gov/asr/applications by entering Antenna Structure Registration (Form 854) File No. A1258647 . Environmental concerns may be raised by filing a Re uest for Environmental Review with the FCC. The FCC strongly encourages interested parties to file Re uests for Environmental Review online at www.fcc.gov/asr/environmentalre uest , but they may be filed with a paper copy by mailing the Re uest to FCC Re uests for Environmental Review, Attn Ramon Williams, 445 12th Street SW, Washington, DC 20554.

PROBATE DIVISION

Notice is hereby given that the School Board of Marion County, Florida, will meet in special session on November 14, 2023, at 5:00 p.m., at the Administration Office, 1614 E. Ft. King Street , Ocala, Florida 34471. The purpose of this special meeting is organization of the Board, including election of Chair and Vice-Chair, as required by Florida Statutes. Any person deciding to appeal any decision made by the Board at the meeting will need a record of the proceedings, and, for such purpose, may need to insure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence on which the appeal is to be based.

Personal Representative: Linda Eileen Gay 14 Count Fleet Drive Ocala, Florida 34482

FORMER COUNTY EXTENSION DIRECTOR SELECTED FOR THE MARION COUNTY AGRICULTURE HALL OF FAME

By Caroline Brauchler caroline@ocalagazette.com

illiam “Bill” Phillips, former county extension director, has been selected to be inducted into the Marion County Agriculture Hall of Fame. The induction ceremony will take place from 6-8 p.m. Nov. 16 at the Southeastern Livestock Pavilion, 2232 NE Jacksonville Road, Ocala. The Hall of Fame, established in 2003, acknowledges people who have greatly contributed to furthering agriculture in the community. Phillips worked for the Marion County extension department for horticulture, fruit crops and commercial vegetables from 1967 until 1996. He worked to establish a freeze warning program to notify agriculturists with the latest weather information on freeze nights, in addition to his work with the master gardener program to educate residents on common issues and solutions for home gardens. Phillips will be honored with a bronze plaque to be displayed in the Hall of Fame exhibit at the extension service auditorium. A “Hall of Fame video” will also be released to commemorate him during farm city week.

For more information, contact County Extension Director Patricia Nobles at (352) 671-8400 or noblesp@ufl.edu.

On View Through January 14 ---------------

Free Admission

Saturday, November 4 10 a.m.-5 p.m. ---------------

SKYLINES HEMLI NES t o

Art Deco Design From the Permanent Collection

Appleton Museum, Artspace and Store

-an equal opportunity college-

Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday, noon-5 p.m. 4333 E. Silver Springs Blvd. Ocala, FL | AppletonMuseum.org

Revere Copper and Brass Company (American, founded 1928), “Skyscraper” Cocktail Shaker with Glasses, 1937. Chrome-plated Metal. Gift of Enrique Conill-Mendoza and AnaMari Goicoechea via Florida Institute of Technology (FIT) 2021 Transfer.

NOVEMBER 3 - NOVEMBER 9, 2023 | OCALA GAZETTE

NEW TRIAL DATE SET FOR WOMAN ACCUSED OF KILLING NEIGHBOR IN OCALA By Caroline Brauchler caroline@ocalagazette.com

new trial date has been set for Susan Lorincz, the woman who authorities say fatally shot her neighbor in Ocala on June 2. Circuit Court Judge Robert Hodges decided at a pre-trial hearing on Wednesday that the case would be rescheduled for June 24, 2024. The case was originally scheduled to go to trial on Nov. 13, but Lorincz’ lawyer, Assistant Public Defender Amanda Sizemore, requested more time for the defense to review discovery and schedule depositions, according to court documents. Lorincz, 58, has been charged with one count of manslaughter and one count of assault after fatally shooting her neighbor Ajike “AJ” Owens, a 35-year-old mother of four, according to

the State Attorney’s Office. Authorities say Lorincz, who is white, shot through her locked front door while Owens was standing directly outside of it. Owens, who was Black, went to the house to confront Lorincz for an altercation she had with Owens’ children, who regularly played in an open space in the neighborhood, according to the arrest affidavit. Owens and Lorincz frequently got into altercations over the course of two years, often over Owens’ children playing in a grassy common area in the Quail Run-area apartment complex, Marion County Sheriff ’s Office records show. Multiple neighbors reported hearing Lorincz use racial slurs toward the family and often hearing arguments during their long-time feud, according to the arrest affidavit.

College of Central Florida

COLLEGIATE ACADEMY

Those close to the victim and her family called for State Attorney Bill Gladson to pursue murder charges for Lorincz in connection to Owens’ death and expressed disappointment in the state attorney’s decision to charge her with manslaughter. The Owens family is being represented by attorneys Anthony Thomas and Benjamin Crump. Crump has worked on a number of high-profile civil rights cases, and has defended the families of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Trayvon Martin and Tyre Nichols. A pre-trial hearing is scheduled for June 5, with jury selection scheduled to begin on June 17. If convicted of manslaughter, Lorincz faces a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison, according to the State Attorney’s Office.

CF Collegiate Academy to Open in 2024 In partnership with Marion County Public Schools, the CF Collegiate Academy is a new dual enrollment opportunity that allows 11th and 12th grade students to take classes full time to earn a degree or certificate at the College of Central Florida

HILLCREST TEACHER WINS STATEWIDE ART EDUCATOR AWARD By Caroline Brauchler caroline@ocalagazette.com

or 48 years, Hillcrest School never had an art program. Teacher Zanita Hendry has spent the past four years building an art program from the ground up to bring inclusion and creativity together. Hendry, who has taught at Hillcrest for 11 years, has been chosen as the winner of the Adaptive Arts Educator Award from the Florida Art Education Association. Hillcrest is a school specifically serving students with a variety of disabilities from grades six to 12. Hillcrest brings exceptional student education to the next level with programs designed to educate and train young people in mobility, communication and vocation. “The students are extremely creative, and when given a safe space for them to explore that creativity, it really frees them of any judgment,” Hendry said. Hendry started at Hillcrest as a paraprofessional in 2012. After getting her degree in interdisciplinary studies from the University of Central Florida by taking classes at night, she became a fulltime teacher at the school. Hendry said she worked with Marion County School Board Member Nancy Thrower, who strongly advocated for Hillcrest to have an art program and made it possible. Hendry was then elected to become the art teacher, which she said takes “heart.” “My art room is free of any judgment, and it gives them a place to explore, learn and have some hands-on, creative learning activities that just help with the growth mindset to learn,” she said. Hendry said that not going to art school has benefitted her by allowing her to have a broader view of what art

before graduating high school — at no cost to the student! Students interested in enrolling in Collegiate Academy should express interest by the end of their eighth-grade year. This new opportunity begins fall 2024.

is, which allows her to give her students more creativity. “I do believe that I’m just more open minded when it comes to art for our kids because I don’t necessarily follow the rules of art,” she said. “I’m more open to what the kids bring to the table, what their idea of art is, rather than having this preconceived notion.” Hendry said she looks forward to the big art show at the end of the year because it gives the students a chance to not only create art, but also to sell it. “I wanted to give the students a chance for everyone’s art to shine, for everyone to have their moment in the sun,” she said. Hendry said she was nominated for the award by her coworker Ashley Schroeder, who works at Hillcrest as a speech language therapy teacher. “It feels good to be acknowledged for all the hard work and we do,” Hendry said.

Zanita Hendry [Supplied]

Take the next step at

CF.edu/CollegiateAcademy

-an equal opportunity college-

352-873-5800 CF.edu

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NOVEMBER 3 - NOVEMBER 9, 2023 | OCALA GAZETTE

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NOVEMBER 3 - NOVEMBER 9, 2023 | OCALA GAZETTE

People, Places & Things A local dance teacher encourages students to communicate through creative movement. By Lisa McGinnes lisa@magnoliamediaco.com

ancer Justine McDaniel says her favorite role she has performed onstage is the Black Swan in “Swan Lake.” However, her most rewarding role is the one she now performs every day in the classroom: dance teacher. For the past 10 years, McDaniel has been the director of dance for the Marion County Center for the Arts at West Port High School, training students in ballet, modern, jazz, hip hop and tap dance styles and directing the WPHS Studio Company and Howlers Dance Team. In August, she joined College of Central Florida (CF) as a dance instructor, teaching ballet, modern and Intro to Dance classes. A native Ocalan, McDaniel is an alumna of both schools. She graduated from West Port High School and earned an Associate in Arts degree as a dual enrollment student at CF. Now she teaches students like her, who want to pursue a career in the performing arts, as well as students at all skill levels who simply find joy in dancing. She believes that creative movement is beneficial for all students. “The arts are important for students because it gives students these certain soft skills that they’re not getting from regular academic classes,” McDaniel said. “I think the most important thing I can teach them is to become their authentic

Justine McDaniel poses for a photo in the dance studio classroom at the College of Central Florida in Ocala on Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2023. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2023.

selves. [Dance class] helps with their physical movement and cardiovascular endurance, but also it’s that mentality and mental health. It builds determination and community in class. The students are always working together. We’re always encouraging each other.” Earlier in her career, McDaniel was one of the community’s preeminent ballet dancers, performing with Marion Ballet Theatre, where she also worked as ballet mistress. She started ballet lessons at age 3 and performed many notable roles including Princess Aurora in “The Sleeping Beauty” and Odile in “Swan Lake.” She prepared young dancers for roles in local productions of famous ballets such as “The Nutcracker.” She even pursued advanced training with the Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music & Dance in London. But instead of seeking the spotlight as a professional dancer, McDaniel chose to earn her master’s degree in dance at California State University Long Beach and return home to Ocala to teach. “It was one of my goals, getting my master’s degree and continuing my education, to come back and give back to the community that I was from, especially in the K-12 and higher education sectors,” she said. “I really do believe in what it does for students in an educational setting and not just in a studio setting. So I do have a big appreciation for the education aspect of dance and the arts. I decided that I wanted to teach instead of pursue a career in performance because, for me personally, I felt like I was good at teaching and being able to describe and connect with students. I always loved performing, but I felt like I was going to have more success teaching. And I feel like that is valuable.” At CF, McDaniel is excited about revitalizing the dance program after classes were dormant for the past few years. She’s hoping to add a jazz class and relaunch the dance ensemble to give students a chance to perform. She also invites any student to take her Intro to Dance class—no experience required. “Intro to Dance is beneficial for any CF student, because it introduces you to a variety of movement disciplines and also how to take a dance class, how to use your instrument effectively,” she said. “This is an inclusive and welcoming space. I do truly believe we’re all movers. Every day we go about our lives moving, and in dance it’s no different. We just have a little more structure, a little more weirdness and creativity, but I help students find that within them. And dance is supposed to feel good for you, supposed to help communicate, bring people together, and no one should be looked at or feel like they can’t be a part of that, because movement belongs to everyone.”

Annual Lights You are invited to the of Love Community Tree Annual Lights ofLighting Love Ceremony December 2023 6:00 pm Community Tree7,Lighting Ceremony Ocala Citizens’ Circle

110 SE Watula Ave December 2, 2021 6 p.m.

$25 minimum donation to inscribe a name in front of our 14-foot tree • RSVP (352) 291-5143 by Nov 17

Ocala Citizen’s Circle Sponsored by

Roberts of Ocala

110 SE Watula Ave.

Justine McDaniel dances in the dance studio classroom at the College of Central Florida in Ocala on Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2023. McDaniel is an adjunct professor of dance at CF and is also a dance instructor at West Port High School. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2023.

“I felt like I was good at teaching and being able to describe and connect with students. I always loved performing, but I felt like I was going to have more success teaching. And I feel like that is valuable.” Justine McDaniel

NOVEMBER 3 - NOVEMBER 9, 2023 | OCALA GAZETTE

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.

Bird of the Week

Hooded warbler [MichaelWarren.com]

By Michael Warren

his striking little warbler passes through Marion County in the autumn on its way to its winter range in Cuba and Central America. A relatively rare sight, it is most likely to be found in swampy hardwood forests. This one was photographed along the swamp trail in Silver Springs State Park. #41

New Look,

Same Great Care

Hospice of Marion County is now an affiliate member of Empath Health. This affiliation makes us part of a nonprofit, integrated network of care from Ocala to Naples serving nearly 20,000 individuals in hospice care, home health, elder care and more. We remain committed to serving our community with the same expert, compassionate care since 1983. empath

empath

HOSPICE OF MARION COUNTY empath Now an Affiliate of Empath Health. New Look, Same Great Care.

HOSPICE of MARION COUNTY HospiceofMarion.com

empath

HOSPICE of MARION COUNTY empath

empath

HOSPICE OF MARION COUNTY 1111 NE 25th Ave Suite 504 Ocala, FL

empath

HOSPICE of MARION 7480 SW SR 200 COUNTY Ocala. FL

352-547-8644

bewellholisticmassage.com Massage Therapy Reflexology Facials & Skin Care Chiropractor Acupuncture Hypnotherapy Yoga & Meditation Nutrition Counselor Halo IR Sauna

HOSPICE OF MARION COUNTY

FALL SPECIALS

Ask about our Ultimate Fall Bucket List

Unlock your inner radiance and embrace a new level of self-care and wellness.

HOSPICE OF MARION COUNTY empath

HOSPICE of MARION COUNTY

Across

1 Sarah Spain’s network 5 Percussion set 10 Cards 14 “Go on, git!” 15 Tickle 16 __ were 17 Textile machine 18 Nigerian seaport 19 “Ciao” 20 Medic with an office at Fisherman’s Wharf? 23 Expert 24 Extremely chill 25 Leaders inclined to work as a group? 31 Extremely cold 32 Channel marker 33 Picked up the tab 35 BYU or NYU 36 Sun screen 37 Strive (for) 40 African country in the Maloti Mountains 41 Drains 42 Summits 45 Captain Hook’s incredulous assessment of his nemesis? 47 Statue base 49 Melber of MSNBC 50 Puts comfy shoes through rigorous testing? 56 Tropical spot 57 Safari equine 58 Most CFOs 60 Some game 61 “Middlemarch” novelist 62 Bend at a barre 63 Retired boomers 64 Action 65 Blood bank fluids

Down

1 Subj. for those wishing to be

bilingual 2 Utterly beyond repair 3 Play down 4 Motto for the ruthless 5 Meteorological effect caused by refraction 6 Desktop with an AppleCare option 7 Literary award with a spaceship logo 8 Starting on 9 Lab work 10 Thinned (down) 11 Pulitzer-winning journalist Wilkerson 12 Early ICBM 13 Hung around 21 Play-__ 22 “Science of Logic” philosopher Georg 25 Small ammo 26 Director Jean-__ Godard 27 LAX postings 28 Superhero once played by Stephen Amell on The CW 29 “__ Comes to Pemberley”: P.D. James novel 30 Obama daughter 34 Friendly honk 36 Rats, gnats, and brats 37 Element in an algebraic equation 38 Wall St. event 39 Key that exits full-screen mode 40 Brand of packaged bagels 41 Is extremely frugal 42 Ladybug prey 43 Shuts 44 “The Gleaners” painter Jean-François 46 River that rises in the Bernese Alps 48 Fuzzy states 51 Move to a warmer state? 52 Drama honor 53 Cut short 54 Ink 55 Place to hibernate 59 “Wide Sargasso __”: Jean Rhys novel

ANSWERS TO PUZZLES ON PAGE B6

NOVEMBER 3 - NOVEMBER 9, 2023 | OCALA GAZETTE

A very fine festival By Susan Smiley-Height susan@magnoliamediaco.com

Y Jade Amber of the Magnolia Art Xchange, left, draws a caricature of Bradley Gilbert, 9, during the FAFO Ocala Arts Festival in downtown Ocala on Saturday, Oct. 28, 2023.

Aaron Noboa, 10, of Boy Scout Troop 172, carries a sign to sell ice cold water.

ou couldn’t have asked for a better weekend for the 56th annual Ocala Arts Festival. The weather was perfect. The artists brought their best works. The downtown businesses and vendors offered delicious food and drink. And the crowds showed up in large numbers. The streets all around downtown Ocala were filled with things to do and see, taste and savor. More than 150 artists participated, along with local students and emerging artists. The overall Best in Show award went to William Kidd, with the Emerging Artists Best in Show honor going to Kendra Brazzel. Ummarid Eitharong and Richard Currier both earned the Award of Excellence. Awards of Distinction went to Luis Gutierrez, Dennis Angel, Susan Currier, Michelle McDowell, Juan Carlos and Nuris Cahue, Kristin Schillaci and Timothy Hall. Earning Awards of Merit were Wendy Mitchell, Robin Popp, Michael Nelson, Greg Johnson, Zhiyong Ye, Harry Welsch, Nathan Leemis, Charles Bahringer, Robert Lowe and Taymon Loringsmith. The Fine Arts For Ocala (FAFO) nonprofit organization, which was formed in 1966 by local residents, puts on the annual event. In 1988, the group started Symphony Under The Stars, the annual Mother’s Day tradition that helps fund the art festival. FAFO’s administrator coordinator is Ashley Morgan. This year’s festival chairs were Teddy Sykes and Ryan Neumann.

To learn more, go to fafo.org

Photos above: People look over artwork on Fort King Street.

Photos By Bruce Ackerman Ocala Gazette

Left to right: Brennan Thompson, 2, gets a piggy-back ride from his father, Lane. Mark Matthews sits in his booth where he had metal sculptures on display and for sale. Eloise Keuntjes, 7, left, and Brynley Giles, 5, get pulled in a wagon. Alexianna Orozco, 5, left, and Alanna Hagans, 6, eat their Kona Ice as they wear their Halloween costumes

Current Adoption Specials: “Ocala Gazette” regularly brings you three furry friends that are available for adoption from local animal rescue organizations.

Toasty

Anyone like games? Fivemonth-old Toasty loves to play hide and seek with new toys. He may be shy at first, but can easily be swayed if you have a little bit a time to play a game.

Hoax

Two-year-old Hoax is made of best friend material. He’d make a great sidekick to anyone in need of a daily pick-me-up or a good listener. Don’t let this guy get past you—he’s a keeper!

November is Adopt a Senior Month! Fees are waived for all pets over seven years of age. All others are $25. Visit MarionFL.org/Animal

Beetle

Who said treats? Four-year-old Beetle never misses the sound of a rustling bag and dreams of having his very own treat cabinet in your kitchen.

NOVEMBER 3 - NOVEMBER 9, 2023 | OCALA GAZETTE

LOCAL CALENDAR LISTINGS

veterans day NOVEMBER 11

NOVEMBER 11

Give Thanks Music Festival

Homestead Park, 1050 NE 6th Blvd., Williston 11am-9pm This event honors and celebrates veterans and includes a flagpole dedication at 12pm, a vendor village and an Americana classic car and truck show. The after-party includes music from local favorite Cliff Dorsey. Parking and admission are free. For more information, visit homesteadparks.com.

Veterans Day Concert: Party in the Park

Tuscawilla Park, 500 NE 9th St., Ocala 12pm-5pm With live music, beer, food trucks, vendors and more, this party at the Reilly Arts Center’s Jenkins Outdoor Stage will feature Steeln’ Peaches, an Allman Brothers tribute band, along with special guest John Copeland. The event is free to attend.

community NOVEMBER 3

NOVEMBER 3-5

Coon Hollo Farm Fall Festival

First Friday Art Walk

Downtown Ocala 6pm-9pm Art Walk season continues with artists, performers and craftspeople. The square’s main stage will host music, and food and drink will be available from vendors and nearby restaurants. This month, The Falcon Band from Fort King Middle School will perform, along with The Mudds. The event is free to attend. For more info, ocalafl.org

Coon Hollo Farm, 22480 Highway 441 North, north of McIntosh Times vary, see website Celebrate fall with pony rides, archery, a crop maze, a hay ride out to the feed the cows, a Wild West show, pig races and farm animals. Tickets are $14 and include all activities. Food and drink will be available for sale. For more information, visit coonhollo.com.

NOVEMBER 4 & 11

Yoga in the Park

NOVEMBER 3 & 10

Marion County Friday Market

McPherson Governmental Campus Field, 601 SE 25th Ave., Ocala 9am-2pm Shop locally fresh fruits and veggies, baked goods, jerky, freeze-dried treats, olive oils, seafood and more. The market recurs every Friday.

NOVEMBER 3- 5

Brown & Brown Farms Fall Festival & Mega Maze Brown & Brown Farm, 13940 US 301, Oxford Hours vary, see website This farm boasts Central Florida’s largest corn maze and has 12 acres of winding paths, twists and turns. The farm is family-friendly and the maze is wheelchair accessible. Tickets start at $14.95. See bit.ly/brown-corn-maze for more information.

NOVEMBER 3-DECEMBER 15

Coffee and English

Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place, 1821 NW 21st Ave., Ocala 5:30pm-7pm Join the English Language Learners group each Friday as they practice and improve their English in a fun, relaxed environment. This is a great opportunity to improve upon a second language while building new relationships. See ocalafl.gov/recpark for more information.

NOVEMBER 3-5 & 10-12

Market of Marion

Market of Marion, 12888 SE US Highway 441, Belleview 8am-4pm This is a classic farmers market with lots of vendors. The market is open every weekend, with monthly special events like car shows on the fourth Saturday. See themarketofmarion.com for more information.

Sholom Park, 7110 SW 80th Ave., Ocala 9am All are welcome; meet at the stage area. This free class recurs every Saturday morning. Visit sholompark.org for details.

NOVEMBER 4 & 11

Ocala Downtown Farmers Market

Ocala Downtown Market, 310 SE Third St., Ocala 9am-2pm Vendors offer local fruits and vegetables, meats and seafood, fresh pasta, honey, jewelry, baked goodies, clothes, and arts and crafts. Check out local food trucks and the occasional guest entertainer. Rain or shine; recurs every Saturday. Visit ocaladowntownmarket.com for more information.

NOVEMBER 4 & 11

Farmers Swap Meet

Rural King, 2999 NW 10th St., Ocala 9am-2pm A true farmers market where chickens, ducks, quail, geese, goats, turkeys, rabbits and sometimes even ponies are available, along with horse tack, homegrown plants, produce and hand-crafted items. This event recurs on Saturdays, weather permitting.

NOVEMBER 4

Special Events at the Downtown Farmers Market

Ocala Downtown Market, 310 SE Third St., Ocala 6pm-10pm The Ocala Farmers Market hosts special events, and this month there’s a fun variety. And a Girls Night Out market is Nov. 4. For more information, see the Facebook page or call the CEP at (352) 629-8051, ext. 126.

NOVEMBER 4

People, Paws & Ponies: Walk for Epilepsy Citizens’ Circle, 151 SE Osceola Ave., Ocala 8am The Epilepsy Alliance of Florida hosts a fundraiser and awareness walk. For more information, visit walkthetalkfl.org/ocala

NOVEMBER 4

NOVEMBER 3-5

Marion County Chili Cook-Off & Car Show

Ocala Food and Wine Festival

World Equestrian Center, Expo 1, 1390 NW 80th Ave., Ocala Hours vary, check website The third annual festival will feature appearances from celebrity chefs like Lorena Garcia, Timothy Hollingsworth, Rashad Jones and Yohann Le Bescond. Tickets start at $95 for day passes, and VIP weekend packages are available. The event is limited to ages 21 and older. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit ocalafoodandwinefest.com

Southeastern Livestock Pavilion, 2232 NE Jacksonville Road, Ocala 10am- 5pm Rev up your taste buds and check out this chili competition. This is the 42nd annual cook-off, which is a fundraiser for The Cornerstone School, and will feature food, craft beers, vendor booths, live music, a kids’ zone, car show and more. Sample chili with purchased tickets, vote for your favorite, check out the cars and vote for the People’s Choice award. For more information, visit marioncountychilicookoff.com

critters & equine NOVEMBER 4

SARC Training Session

NOVEMBER 8

Green Clover Hall, 319 SE 26th Terrace, Ocala 9am-5pm The Florida State Animal Response Coalition (FL SARC) will conduct training for how to respond to save animals and operate temporary emergency shelters during disasters. The training is open to the public, and attendees must be age 18 or older. It is FEMA approved and required to be a FL SARC disaster responder involving the care of companion animals. Registration is $40 and includes a free T-shirt. To register, go to bit.ly/SPCAofOCALA.

Wildlife Wednesdays

Scott Springs Parks 2825 SW 24th Ave., Ocala 5pm-6pm Put your ranger hat on and join park staff for this educational presentation and weekly hike at an area park. Free to attend for all, this is a great way to learn about native animals and their distinct habitats here in Ocala. The topics and park locations vary; see the website for more information at ocalafl.gov/recpark

NOVEMBER 11

Veterans Light the Stars Concert

Ocala-Marion County Veterans Memorial Park, 2601 SE Fort King St., Ocala 6:30pm The Kingdom of the Sun Concert Band honors veterans with a celebration concert to share the gift of music with them and their loved ones. Bring lawn chairs or blankets and enjoy an evening of music, American spirit and fireworks. For more information, see kingdomofthesunband.org.

NOVEMBER 4

Summer Glen Holiday Craft Fair

Summer Glen, 1450 SW 154th St. Road, Ocala 9am- 2pm This craft fair features local artists and Summer Glen residents’ handiwork, including handmade soap, candles, jewelry and more. The event also includes door prizes and a bake sale.

NOVEMBER 4

Historic Homesteading: Candle Making Fort King National Historic Landmark, 3925 E Fort King St., Ocala 10am- 12pm Learn about historic crafts and homesteading skills in this workshop series. This month, it’s all about making candles. Registration is $20 and includes supplies. Register at ocalafl.perfectmind.com/ SocialSite/MemberRegistration/MemberSignIn

NOVEMBER 4

Brown’s Junk in the Trunk

Brown & Brown Farm, 13940 US 301, Oxford 7:30am-1pm This mobile yard sale has vendors selling goodies from trunks, trucks, vans and trailers. There’s no preregistration required to sell, spaces are $15-$25 and buyers peruse for free. The market recurs the first Saturday of the month. For more information, see brownandbrownfarms.com/ attractions/junk-in-the-trunk

NOVEMBER 4

First Saturdays Market in the Park

Ernie Mills Park, 11899 Bostick St., Dunnellon 10am-2pm A variety of vendors set up booths. Many Dunnellon stores offer Saturday Specials, and you can pick up a map of other participating merchants. Stroll the park, decide where to shop in town and grab a lovely lunch, all while enjoying the Rainbow River area. See dunnellonchamber.com/event/firstsaturday-market-in-the-park for more information.

NOVEMBER 4 & 5

Ocklawaha River Raid Civil War Re-enactment

Florida Horse Park, 11008 S Highway 475, Ocala 9am Come for a Civil War reenactment of the Ocklawaha River Raid performed by the 2nd Battalion of Hardy’s Brigade. The campgrounds will be complete with authentic tents, horse-drawn wagons and campfires preparing supper. The battle reenactment with gunfire takes place at 2pm both days. Admission is $10 per vehicle.

NOVEMBER 6

Hidden in Plain Sight Drugs Workshop

NOVEMBER 9

OTOW Farmers Market

The Town Square at Circle Square Commons, 8405 SW 80th St., Ocala 9am-1pm Browse local farmers’ goods with fresh seasonal produce as well as baked goods, plants, handmade soaps and more. The market recurs every Thursday. Visit circlesquarecommons.com for more information.

NOVEMBER 9

Tot Time

Silver Springs Shores Community Center, 590 Silver Road, Ocala 10am-12pm This free program for children ages 4 and under is designed to get kids interacting and playing with other kids. The activities will vary from inside play, pool time and playground time. The program is free to attend and meets weekly on Thursdays. See facebook.com/SilverSpringsShoresCC for more information.

NOVEMBER 9

Tyke Hike in the Parks

Location varies, see website 9am Ocala’s Recreations and Parks Department host these weekly explorations on Thursdays, taking place in various city parks to explore nature and learn about the area. Free to attend; the park site varies weekly. This week the theme is Springs & Creeks. See ocalafl.gov/recpark for more information.

NOVEMBER 9

Paychecks for Patriots Job Fair

Marion County Public Library, 2720 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala 11am-1pm A free job fair to help veterans, service members and military families connect with employers takes place. Members of the general public can also participate. Employers expected to attend include Fidelity Manufacturing, Right at Home Nature Coast and the Citrus County Board of County Commissioners. For more info and to pre-register, visit bit.ly/HIRINGHEROES.

NOVEMBER 11-12

Ocali Country Days

Silver River Museum, 1445 NE 58th Ave., Ocala 9am-4pm The annual fall festival boasts live music, arts and crafts for sale, historic displays, vendors and food trucks. Crafters will show off historical homesteading skills, you can see the historic buildings on site and tour the Silver River Museum. Tickets are $8 per person; children under 5 are free. See silverrivermuseum.com for more info.

THROUGH JANUARY 6

“Exciting Explorers” at the Discovery Center

Marion County Sheriff’s Office, 3300 NW 10th St., Ocala 11:30am-1pm Sponsored by the Community Council Against Substance Abuse and the Marion County Children’s Alliance, this free workshop will help adults recognize behaviors and decisions that are risky and likely to lead to drug and substance problems. To register, visit bit.ly/ccasa-workshop.

Discovery Center, 701 NE Sanchez Ave., Ocala Tuesdays-Saturdays, 10am-4pm The Discovery Center has opened its new exhibit, “Exciting Explorers.” Learn about archeologists and preserving ancient finds, figure out navigation routes and other hands-on science activities. Tickets are $8 per person for ages 3 and older, and $7 for seniors and veterans. See bit.ly/3ZHl029 for more information.

NOVEMBER 8-12

NOVEMBER 10-12

Hunter/Jumper Fall Series

World Equestrian Center Ocala, Grand Arena, 1390 NW 80th Ave., Ocala 8am-4pm This fall/winter series kicks off two months of hunter/jumper shows with a variety of classes for amateurs and professionals. Classes will be held in both indoor and outdoor arenas. The event is free and open to the public. For more information, visit worldequestriancenter.com.

Southernmost Sight Hounds Dog Show

Florida Horse Park, 11008 S Highway 475, OcalaOcala 8am-6pm This Friday fun match and weekend dog show highlights the sight hound breeds including whippets, greyhounds and other racers. Classes include straight races and lure courses. Visit whippetnationals.com for more information.

VISIT OUR EVENTS CALENDAR ONLINE OCALAGAZETTE.COM/EVENTS

NOVEMBER 3 - NOVEMBER 9, 2023 | OCALA GAZETTE

government NOVEMBER 6 & 13

NOVEMBER 7

Marion County Development Review Committee

Belleview City Commission

NOVEMBER 6

Ocala City Council

Office of the County Engineer, 412 SE 25th Ave., Building 1, Ocala 9am The first step for new development projects, the committee reviews and votes on waiver requests to the Land Development Code, major site plans and subdivision plans. The committee meets weekly on Mondays.

City Hall, 5343 SE Abshier Blvd., Belleview 6pm The commission meets the first and third Tuesday of the month. Belleview government agendas, minutes and video are available at belleviewfl.org/200/Agendas-Minutes.

NOVEMBER 7

Dunnellon City Council Workshop

City Hall, 20750 River Drive, Dunnellon 5:30pm Dunnellon government agendas, minutes and video are available at dunnellon.org/AgendaCenter

civic

City Hall, 110 SE Watula Avenue, Ocala 4pm Ocala government agendas and minutes are available at ocala.legistar.com/calendar.aspx.

Bring your own chess set. For more information, visit facebook.com/ groups/53070499106/

Freedom Public Library, 5870 SW 95th St., Ocala 10am-12pm The club meets weekly on Fridays and new members are welcome. Bring your own chess set. For more information, contact Walt Lamp at (352) 854-9378.

NOVEMBER 4 & 11

NOVEMBER 3 & 10

Kiwanis Club of Ocala

Central Christian Church, 3010 NE 14th St., Ocala 12pm The club meets weekly on Fridays and supports Camp Kiwanis, children’s literacy and Habitat for Humanity. More information is available at ocalakiwanis.org.

NOVEMBER 4 & 11

Ocala Chess Club at Headquarters Library

Headquarters Library, 2720 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala 11am-3pm The club meets weekly on Saturdays and new members are welcome.

arts NOVEMBER 3

Friday Night Done Right

Marion Theatre, 50 S Magnolia Ave., Ocala 7pm Fun without substances is the theme for an alcohol and drug-free party for teens. Hosted by the Community Council Against Substance Abuse and the Marion County Children’s Alliance, the movie shown will be “Jungle Cruise,” along with other activities. Free admission, but reservations are suggested. For more information, visit mariontheatre.org.

NOVEMBER 3

MCA’s Block pARTy 2023

Brick City Center for the Arts, 23 SW Broadway St., Ocala 5pm-7pm VIP reception; 7pm-9pm general public The theme for the annual fundraiser for the arts center is Hip Hop’s 50th anniversary. More than 100 works of art will be on display, and the VIP reception includes music from DJ Won6, tapas and drinks. Tickets are $50-$55. Theme attire is encouraged. Visit bit.ly/46SrDBd for more information and tickets.

NOVEMBER 3

Arts and Crafts for Adults

Arts in Health Ocala Metro Headquarters, 507 NE 8th Ave., Ocala 10am-11:30am On Friday mornings, the organization is offering free art programs with Carmen Rojas Gines. All arts and crafts supplies are included. Register at aihocala. org/arts-and-crafts-for-adults or call (352) 723-5444.

NOVEMBER 4

John Hemingway Author Talk

Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings State Park, 18700 S County Road 325, Cross Creek 1:30pm-3pm Author John Hemingway, grandson of Ernest Hemingway, will give an author’s talk about his “A Strange Tribe: A Family Memoir, about growing up in his turbulent family, with a meet and greet to follow. It’s free with a park admission of $3 per vehicle. For more information, bit.ly/3QjaPwd

NOVEMBER 4

Free First Saturday

Appleton Museum of Art, 4333 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala 10am-5pm Continuing its tradition of free admission on the first Saturday of each month, you can view museum works, regular and special collections, and hear guest artists and lecturers share their knowledge. This month, a screening of “The Great Gatsby” is on tap, plus the food truck Cousin’s Maine Lobster. See appletonmuseum.org for more information.

Fall Open House: Toastmasters Early Bird Ocala

Marion County Literacy Council, 120 SW 5th St., Ocala 8am The club hosts a fall open house on Nov. 11. Newcomers are welcome. Learn to feel comfortable with public speaking and improve leadership skills. This club meets Saturday mornings for practice. Contact toastmaster.sherrivaughn@gmail.com or 6938954. toastmastersclubs.org for more information.

NOVEMBER 4

Blooming Violets of Marion County

Marion County Sheriff’s Southwest District Office, 9048 SW State Road 200 Ocala, FL 34481 10:30-12:30 The Blooming Violets of Marion County meets the first Saturday of the month to celebrate and enjoy African violets. Meetings include refreshments, raffle and the program. Guests are welcome.

NOVEMBER 4

First Saturday Art Studio Creative Workshop Brick City Center for the Arts, 23 SW Broadway St., Ocala 10am-2pm The art studio opens its door for free to allow all age artists to come downtown and create. Bring your own supplies. For more information, contact Marion Cultural Alliance at (352) 369-1500 or check out mcaocala.org/workshops

NOVEMBER 4-JANUARY 7

“A Dickens Christmas: The Urban Family’s Holiday Exhibition”

Appleton Museum of Art, 4333 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala 10am-5pm The museum hosts the Urban family’s remarkable Christmas exhibition again this year, with extravagantly decorated trees, a Dickens Village display and a nutcracker collection. See appletonmuseum.org for more information.

NOVEMBER 9

“A Cracker at the The Ritz”

Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE 9th Ave., Ocala 7:30pm This comedy musical comes from the same team that brought “Assisted Living: The Musical” to Ocala. This “roasting” of Florida is song and sketch comedy. Tickets are $35 from reillyartscenter.com.

NOVEMBER 9

Coffee and Cake

NOMA Art Gallery, 939 N Magnolia Ave., Ocala 1pm-4pm These weekly coffee (and cake) klatches bring together gallery guests, artists, patrons, creative types and more, and takes place every Thursday afternoon. All are welcome. See nomaocala.com/ events for more information.

NOVEMBER 9

Free Fall Concert: CF Wind Symphony and Vocal Ensembles

Dassance Fine Arts Center, 3001 SW College Road, Ocala 7:30pm The Patriot Singers and the symphony will present a new piece, “The Desert Shall Bloom as a Rose,” along with standards and other favorites. The concert is free and open to all; no tickets are required. Visit cf.edu/vpaevents for more information.

NOVEMBER 9-26

“The Velocity of Autumn”

Ocala Civic Theatre, 4337 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala Times vary, see website This lively two-person play is a dramatic comedy about an artist mother and her desperate son as they come to terms with aging, creativity and generational

Fort King National Historic Landmark, 3925 SE Fort King St., Ocala 9am Note the change of venue due to McPherson Complex renovations. The commission meets the first and third Tuesday of the month. Agendas, minutes and video available at marionfl.legistar.com/calendar.aspx

NOVEMBER 8

NOVEMBER 3 & 10

South Ocala Chess Club at Freedom Library

NOVEMBER 7

Marion County Board of County Commissioners Meeting

Marion County Land Development Regulation Commission Marion County Main Training Room, 2710 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala 5:30pm Agendas, minutes and video are available at marionfl.legistar.com/calendar.aspx

NOVEMBER 5

Ocala Camellia Society

Marion County Sheriff’s Office South Station, 3260 SE 80th St., Ocala 2pm This club meets on the first Sunday of the month for educational speakers about gardening, especially camellias, general plant advice and refreshments. Free to attend and newcomers are welcome. For more info, facebook.com/people/Ocala-CamelliaSociety/100064745886741/

NOVEMBER 9

Ocala Lions Club

Ocala Golf Club, 3130 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala 12pm The Ocala Lions Club meets every Thursday. Newcomers are welcomed. Call Membership Chairperson Libby Marks de Martino, at (352) 441-0073.

dynamics. Tickets are $30 for adults and $15 for ages 18 and younger. Visit ocalacivictheatre.com for tickets and more information.

NOVEMBER 10

Petty Hearts: The Ultimate Tom Petty Experience

Circle Square Cultural Center, 8395 SW 80th St., Ocala 7pm If you like your music with a Southern accent, check out this Florida-based band that has toured nationally to great renown with its spot-on Tom Petty tribute show. Tickets are $29-$34. See csculturalcenter.com for more information.

NOVEMBER 11

Madeleine Peyroux

Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE 9th Ave., Ocala 7:30pm Singer/songwriter Peyroux grew up busking in the streets of Paris and honed her musical chops even more in New Orleans. Likened to jazz greats Billie Holiday and Ella Fitzgerald, she’s released nine albums, and her latest is “Careless Love.” Tickets are $35-$85 from reillyartscenter.com.

NOVEMBER 12

Southern Express Big Band Concert Countryside Presbyterian Church, 7768 SW Highway 200, Ocala 3pm The 17-piece big band will perform swing musical selections along with patriotic music. For more information, call (352) 237-4633.

THROUGH DECEMBER 12

“Patternz” by Kelsey Mahoney

Ocala City Hall, 110 SE Watula Ave., Ocala Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm The city continues its Art in City Spaces program with this exhibit by emerging artist Kelsey Mahoney. Her abstract work is filled with vibrant colors and mosaic themes. The exhibit is free to the public. For more information, visit ocalafl.gov/artincityspaces.

THROUGH JANUARY 4

“Bold and Inspired: Native American Regalia” and “Abstract Island Expressions” Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place, 1821 NW 21st Ave., Ocala Community center hours Couple Diana and William Lee exhibit work in side-by-side exhibitions, each with its own distinctive style and theme reflecting each artist and their different approaches. The exhibit is part of the Ocala Art in City Spaces program. See ocalafl.gov/artincityspaces for more information.

THROUGH JANUARY 8

The Beauty of Nature and Recyclable Refuse

Recreation and Parks Administration Building and Adult Activity Center, 828/830 NE Eighth Ave., Ocala 8am-5pm Florida artist Albert Bevilacqua focuses this exhibit on recyclable items and he’s turned them into an artistic statement about protecting the environment. Free to the public, this is part of the Art in City Spaces program by the City of Ocala. See ocalafl.gov/artincityspaces for more information.

THROUGH JANUARY 9

Tony A. Blue, American Painter

Ocala International Airport, 1770 SW 60th Ave., Ocala Airport hours Blue’s exhibits include work in acrylics, mixed media and photographs. His colorful, abstract paintings are inspired by Florida’s tropical natural landscape. The exhibit is free and open to the public during airport hours. For more information, visit ocalafl.gov/artincityspaces.

THROUGH JANUARY 14

“Skylines to Hemlines: Art Deco Design”

Appleton Museum of Art, 4333 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala Tuesday-Saturdays 10am-5pm This new exhibit from the museum’s permanent collections brings together an overview of 20th Century art, design, fashion, jewelry and more, focused on the unique movement of Art Deco. The collections include antique clothing, designed items, sculpture, posters, photographs and other artwork. For more information, see appletonmuseum.org.

THROUGH JANUARY 28

“The Unscene South” by Charles Eady

Appleton Museum of Art, 4333 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala 10am-5pm, Tuesday-Saturday This new exhibit from artist Charles Eady focuses on the daily lives of “free Blacks” from the Civil War era. He is a contemporary mixed-media artist and author. Visit appletonmuseum.org for more information.

THROUGH JANUARY 28

“Caught Up in History and Captured on Film” by Randy Batista

Appleton Museum of Art, 4333 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala 10am-5pm, Tuesday-Saturday Batista’s work focuses on Florida and Cuba, two places that had profound impact on the artist. This exhibit features club members of The Spanish Center of Tampa and their daily lives. visit appletonmuseum.org for more information.

NOVEMBER 3 - NOVEMBER 9, 2023 | OCALA GAZETTE

music nightlife nig ghtlife NOVEMBER 3

Tim McCaig

The Yellow Pony World Equestrian Center Ocala, 8510 NW 17th Lane, Ocala 6pm

NOVEMBER 3

Cars after dark event draws big crowd

NOVEMBER 8

Mark Smythe

The Yellow Pony World Equestrian Center Ocala, 8510 NW 17th Lane, Ocala 6pm

NOVEMBER 9

One Flite Up

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

NOVEMBER 3

TJ Brown

The Yellow Pony World Equestrian Center Ocala, 8510 NW 17th Lane, Ocala 6pm

NOVEMBER 10

Reggie Stacy

Homestead Park 1050 NE 6th Blvd., Williston 7pm

Derek Newborn

Homestead Park 1050 NE 6th Blvd., Williston 7pm

NOVEMBER 4

Food Truck Rally with The Big Bad Homestead Park 1050 NE 6th Blvd., Williston 6pm

NOVEMBER 10

KennaDee

Swampy’s Bar & Grille 19773 E Pennsylvania Ave., Dunnellon 5pm

NOVEMBER 4

Radlin’ Rootz

The Yellow Pony World Equestrian Center Ocala, 8510 NW 17th Lane, Ocala 6pm

NOVEMBER 4

Core

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

NOVEMBER 4

KennaDee

Brooklyn’s Backyard 2019 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala 6pm

NOVEMBER 5

NOVEMBER 10

REL

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

NOVEMBER 11

Frankie Justin

The Yellow Pony World Equestrian Center Ocala, 8510 NW 17th Lane, Ocala 6pm

NOVEMBER 11

Shifting Gears

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

KennaDee

Flying Boat Tap Room 9672 SE 58th Ave, Belleview 11am

Trick-or-treaters and car lovers enjoyed the Ocala Cars & Coffee: Burnyzz After Dark event on Oct. 25 at Burnyzz American Classic Horsepower on Maricamp Road. [Andy Fillmore]

By Andy Fillmore andy@ocalagazette.com

ar enthusiasts and trick-or-treaters alike had a scary good time at the Ocala Cars & Coffee: Burnyzz After Dark event on Oct. 25. Owners Josh and Brittanie Hart hosted numerous special interest cars at their sprawling Burnyzz American Classic Horsepower collectable car restoration and sales complex in southeast Marion County. The event included a trunk or treat, offering Halloween candy for young attendees. An event official said 300 cars were pre-registered for the event and he estimated perhaps an equal amount would arrive during the

family-friendly gathering. Elizabeth and Paul Noel drew attention with their rat rod, Volkswagen engine powered trike, which is nicknamed “Beastie” and features military hardware. Chad Converse displayed his 2021 Dodge Challenger Hellcat, which boasts 1,100 horsepower. John Kister wowed the crowd and scared the kids with an 8-foot-tall mechanical skeleton next to his red 1970 Chevrolet Camaro, which is tricked up with a 540 cubic inch, 750 hp engine. Justin Taylor of Ocklawaha showed off his rat rod wrecker and Fred Alty gave visitors a look at his high performance 1961 Ford Falcon. Mary and Kyle Johnson displayed their Ford Lightning pickup and Justin

Brek displayed his 1949 customized Chevy Fleetline, complete with 1957 Caddy wheel covers. Josh Hart, a champion Top Fuel drag racer, said he opened Burnyzz in 2009 “with $300.” The addition of the showroom building a few years ago now makes “100,000-square-feet under roof.” Burnyzz brands also include Modern Muscle Cars, ocalatrailer.com and ocalaebike.com, according to the website. Hart said Ocala needs more family-friendly community events like this one.

To learn more, go to burnyzz.com and find Ocala Cars & Coffee on Facebook.

Frankie Justin [Facebook]

ANSWERS FOR PAGE B2

Justin Taylor of Ocklawaha stands next to his rat rod wrecker at the Ocala Cars & Coffee: Burnyzz After Dark event held Oct. 25 at Burnyzz American Classic Horsepower in southeast Ocala. Taylor’s rig was one of hundreds of collectible and special interest cars at the family-friendly gathering. [Andy Fillmore]

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They ended the season with just a single victory, which was their -“WON” AND ONLY

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NOVEMBER 3 - NOVEMBER 9, 2023 | OCALA GAZETTE

Animal Crackers

Broom Hilda

By Caroline Brauchler caroline@ocalagazette.com

he Florida Thoroughbred Breeders and Owners Association has announced

By Caroline Brauchler caroline@ocalagazette.com

The announcement was made at the Oct. 18 meeting following the association’s annual member meeting. Ocala resident Milan Kosanovich and Morriston resident Francis Vanlangendonck were also reelected to the board of directors. Ocala resident Beckie Cantrell was elected to serve on the board for the first time. Former FTBOA presidents Valerie Dailey and Brent Fernung rejoined the board. All board members will serve for a three-year term until October 2026.

he College of Central Florida will launch two new health science degree programs in the next academic year. The first, a diagnostic medical sonography technology program, will allow students to study to become stenographers to perform ultrasounds. Once the program is complete, students will be able to take credential examinations for diagnostic medical sonography of the abdomen and for OB/GYN specialties from the American Registry. The second, a respiratory care program, will allow students to study to evaluate and treat cardiopulmonary symptoms and disorders to become respiratory therapists. Those who

complete the program will be eligible to take the National Board of Respiratory Care exam and apply for their license. “Each program will undergo its own accreditation process, with first classes anticipated for fall 2024. Interested students can begin taking general education courses starting in spring semester,” according to a CF press release. “These programs are limited access, with admissions processes and criteria beyond general college admissions. Attendance at an information session is mandatory before applying to either program.”

For more information on either program, visit CF.edu/Sonography or CF.edu/Respiratory.

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that George Isaacs has been reelected as president of the organization. Isaacs is the general manager of the Bridlewood Farm in Ocala. “I have been fortunate to lead FTBOA at a time of legislative success that has been decades in the making, and at a time of innovation for the media division,” Isaacs said in a press release. “I am proud of these accomplishments and thrilled the board has elected me again to continue my service as president for the association and its members.”

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NOVEMBER 3 - NOVEMBER 9, 2023 | OCALA GAZETTE

Sports Trinity Catholic crushes P.K. Yonge for district championship Wright’s 3 touchdown passes lead Celtics past Blue Wave Photos By Bruce Ackerman Ocala Gazette

Trinity Catholic’s Gavin Petenbrink (54) strips the ball from P.K. Yonge quarterback Lawrence Wright (1) during a football game at Trinity Catholic High School in Ocala on Thursday, Oct. 26, 2023.

By Mark Pinson Special to the Ocala Gazette

rinity Catholic junior quarterback Preston Wright tossed three touchdown passes, running back Jamarkus Starkes ran for a pair of scores, and the Celtics defense scored in a 49-8 rout of P.K. Yonge on Oct. 26. The loss drops P.K. Yonge to 3-6 on the season, while the lopsided win improved Trinity Catholic, which has played a

demanding schedule, to 3-6 and it earned the Celtics the Class 1S-District 3 championship. “I’m proud of the kids and I thought they played hard,” said Trinity Catholic coach John Brantley. “It’s been a hard road the last month and a half, but now we get back to our competition. Every phase of our program was good tonight and that’s what we’ve been working on all year. That’s why we play the competition we do during the season because it makes us a

better football team, and this is the time of year it pays off.” Trinity Catholic won the coin toss and elected to receive the opening kickoff. The Celtics marched 66 yards in only five plays, all on the ground, with junior Davon Jones capping the drive with a 13-yard scoring scamper. The extra point by Cooper Badics made it 7-0. P.K. Yonge (Gainesville) was forced to punt after failing to pick up a first down and a short punt gave Trinity Catholic the ball on the Blue Wave 47. A pair of runs by sophomore James Pullings picked up a first down before Wright connected with the quick and elusive Jones on a 35-yard touchdown pass. The point after gave the Celtics a 14-0 lead midway through the first quarter. P.K. Yonge managed to move the chains thanks to the athleticism of quarterback Lawrence Wright Jr., who scrambled away from pressure and hit wide receiver Calvin Thomas for a 34-yard gain. The drive ended with an incomplete pass on fourth down at the Trinity Catholic 42.

Trinity Catholic’s Wright, who completed 12 of 14 passes for 163 yards, displayed excellent accuracy with his throws and hit tight end Caiden Buchs on a slant pass for a 6-yard touchdown and a commanding 21-0 lead early in the second quarter. P.K. Yonge could not sustain any kind of success against a swarming Trinity Catholic defense and was forced to punt. A great return by Jaiden Alverio gave the Celtics the ball at the Blue Wave 3. Starkes powered his into the end zone to extend the lead to 28-0. P.K. Yonge put together its best drive of the night and had a first-and-goal at the Trinity Catholic 7-yard line. Three incomplete passes by Wright Jr., set up a fourth and goal before Celtics senior linebacker Jacob Dyer intercepted a pass intended for Devin Johnson at the 2-yard line to end the threat. Trinity Catholic went on an 11-play, 98-yard drive with Starkes scoring on a draw play from 14 yards out to give the Celtics a 35-0 lead with under four minutes left in the first half. P.K. Yonge went nowhere, and a poor punt gave Trinity Catholic great field position on the Blue Wave 43. Wright completed several passes and Ace Means caught a 9-yard scoring strike

“It’s been a hard road the last month and a half, but now we get back to our competition. Every phase of our program was good tonight and that’s what we’ve been working on all year.” John Brantley

Trinity Catholic coach

P.K. Yonge’s Calvin Thomas (4) pulls in a pass over Trinity Catholic’s John Hayes (3).

Trinity Catholic’s Gerald Lawton (6) picks his way past P.K. Yonge defenders.

from Wright. The point after made it 42-0 with 55.2 seconds left in the half. Things went from bad to worse for P.K. Yonge when Wright Jr., had a pass intercepted by Trinity Catholic’s Courtney Patterson who returned it 43 yards for a touchdown to make the score 49-0 at the half. A running clock was used for the entirety of the second half. P.K. Yonge finally got on the scoreboard when Wright Jr., hit Devin Johnson for a 46-yard touchdown pass. The 2-point run was successful to pull the Blue Wave within 49-8 midway through the final period. Trinity Catholic was able to run out the clock to seal the district title. The Celtics host Class 4A Gainesville Buchholz on Nov. 3 in their regular season finale. The Class 1A state playoffs begin in two weeks. “It’s going to be tough next week because Buchholz has a tremendous football team,” coach Brantley said. “We’re going to go after them but we’re going to be smart about it because the playoffs start in two weeks, and we don’t want anyone to get hurt. There is nothing our kids will not have seen heading into the playoffs. We’ll be ready for anything. That doesn’t guarantee us anything, but we’ll be ready.”

NOVEMBER 3 - NOVEMBER 9, 2023 | OCALA GAZETTE

Forest edges West Port for happy homecoming Photos By Bruce Ackerman Ocala Gazette

Forest’s Isayah Osbourne (8) pulls in a touchdown pass in the end zone as he is defended by West Port’s Kaiden Brown (6) during a football game at Forest High School in Ocala on Friday, Oct. 27, 2023.

By Mark Pinson Special to the Ocala Gazette

orest High senior quarterback VJ Poole tossed a pair of touchdown passes, and the Wildcats’ defense forced two West Port High turnovers, including a key fumble recovery inside its 10-yard line in the closing minutes, to seal a hard-fought 17-14 win over the Wolf Pack on Oct. 27. The Class 4A-District 5 homecoming victory improved Forest to 5-4 on the season and increased the Wildcats chances of qualifying for the state playoffs. “We got the dub, and it sure feels good,” said Forest coach Eoghan Cullen. “I’m so proud of these guys. It wasn’t the prettiest game, but they fought and fought and got the job done.” The disappointing loss ends the season for West Port with a record of 6-4, which is the best in school history. The Wolf Pack had not one, but two touchdowns nullified because of costly holding penalties. “The kids played really hard, we had our opportunities but just didn’t get it in the box,” said second-year Wolf Pack

coach Greg Harper. “The penalties were absolute killers, but I’m very proud of this team because they accomplished a lot, and the seniors did a really nice job. We’re still building this program and I think West Port is a sleeping giant in Ocala. We have a lot of great players coming back next year and we’ll learn from this.” West Port looked like it had scored first on a 9-yard run by junior Nasir Allen midway through the opening quarter, but a holding penalty wiped out the touchdown. A fourth-down sack of Wolf Pack quarterback Brittin Stevens by Forest senior lineman Elijah Dennis ended the threat. Forest struck first when a short West Port punt gave the Wildcats great field position at the Wolf Pack 36. On first down, Poole connected with senior wide receiver Isayah Osbourne down the right sideline for a touchdown. The extra point by senior Collin Scroggie gave Forest a 7-0 lead midway through the second period. West Port’s next possession ended with a Stevens fumble that was recovered by Forest defensive end Lazaro Abuin.

receiver Giovanni Wright on back-to-back pass plays of 14 and 13 yards down to the Forest four with less than 3 minutes remaining in the game. On first down. Stevens and the running back mishandled the handoff and Forest recovered the ball to kill the Wolf Pack threat. Forest was able to keep the ball on the ground and ran out the clock on the homecoming victory. The Wildcats will face rival Vanguard on Nov. 3.

But Forest returned the favor when running back Jamarian Whitter was hit hard, lost control of the ball and Wolf Pack junior defensive end Ayden Demartino scooped up the loose ball and rumbled 58 yards for a touchdown. The point after by Eduardo Cavadia tied the score at 7 with 5:29 left in the second period. Forest answered with a methodical, 15-play, 57-yard drive that Poole capped with a perfect slant pass to senior wide receiver Matthew Hart for an 11-yard touchdown. Poole completed 10 of 21 passes for 116 yards. The extra point by Scroggie gave the Wildcats a 14-7 lead at the end of the first half. West Port was forced to punt on its first possession of the third quarter and Forest moved into scoring territory with the aid of a pair West Port’s quarterback Brittin Stevens (1) is stopped by Forest’s Laz Abuin (2) as Abuin of costly penalties comes crashing down on his helmet. against the Wolf Pack. The drive stalled and Scroggie came on to boot a 45yard field goal to give the Wildcats a 17-7 lead with 7:07 left in the period. West Port put together a 14-play, 80-yard drive that was finished off with a 9-yard run on a quarterback draw by Stevens. The left-handed Stevens completed 7 of 16 passes for 98 yards. The point after pulled the Wolf Pack within 17-14. After an exchange of punts, West Port was on the move again as Stevens West Port’s Ayden DeMartino (18) looks over his shoulder as he outruns Forest’s Isayah hooked up with wide Osbourne (8) for a touchdown.

SCOREBOARD SELECTED MARION COUNTY

HIGH SCHOOL & COLLEGE

SPORTS RESULTS OCT. 23 - 27

Trinity Catholic’s Davon Jones (5) turns over a P.K. Yonge defender as he carries the ball for a large gain during a football game at Trinity Catholic High School in Ocala on Thursday, Oct. 26, 2023. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2023.

Results were compiled by Allen Barney

St. John Lutheran’s Arisa Ford (6) and Rylee Palmateer (9) jump to block a spike from Legacy Charter’s Ellie Webster (8) during a volleyball match at St. John Lutheran School in Ocala on Tuesday, Oct. 24, 2023. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2023.

FOOTBALL SCORES

Dunnellon South Sumter

October 23

North Marion Williston

27 GIRLS’ VOLLEYBALL October Class 2A Region 2 Semi-Final 20 Merritt Island 0 56 SCORES St. John Lutheran 3

Eastland Christian St. John Lutheran

52 6

Lakeside Christian Ocala Christian Academy

16 60

Tavares Vanguard

0 63

October 26 P.K. Yonge Trinity Catholic

8 49

October 27 West Port Forest

14 17

Sunshine State Athletic Conference Atlantic 2A First Round

Belleview Tavares

6 42

Lake Weir Interlachen

12 13

October 24

(25-15, 25-15, 25-10)

Class 2A Region 2 Quarterfinals

Class 3A Region 1 Semi-Final

Legacy Charter St. John Lutheran (25-16, 25-8, 25-9)

0 3

Trinity Catholic Florida State University HS (25-14, 25-20, 21-25, 25-19)

1 3

Class 3A Region 1 Quarterfinals 34 14

Maclay Trinity Catholic (25-16, 25-12, 25-16)

0 3

West Port’s Nasir Allen (15) runs the ball in for a touchdown, which was later called back, as Forest’s Gavin Warnken (7) leaps to try and stop him during a football game at Forest High School in Ocala on Friday, Oct. 27, 2023. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2023.

B10

NOVEMBER 3 - NOVEMBER 9, 2023 | OCALA GAZETTE