Ocala Gazette | December 1 - December 7, 2023

VOLUME 4 ISSUE 48

Happy Hanukkah Dec. 7

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DECEMBER 1 - DECEMBER 7, 2023

Ocala, Marion County volley impact fee ordinance back to school district for an adjustment

By Jennifer Hunt Murty jennifer@ocalagazette.com

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egotiations among Marion County, the school district and city of Ocala over how reinstated school impact fees for new construction would be

assessed hit another snag this week, this time over how to calculate costs for multifamily apartment housing.

The Technical Working Group (TWG) met Nov. 28 to discuss a request by Ocala for the school district to reconsider the proposed schedule for impact fees, one-

Community With A Heart is underway

time costs paid by developers and homebuilders to offset the financial impacts their projects impose on existing county services such as schools, roads and hospitals. This was the group’s first public meeting pursuant to last year’s new interlocal See School, page A2

Nancy Thrower of the Marion County Public School Board, left, speaks as Lauren Debick of Marion County Public Schools, center, and Superintendent Diane Gullett, right, listen during the Technical Working Group meeting at Marion Technical Institute on East Fort King Street in Ocala on Monday, Nov. 27, 2023. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2023.

Ocala Main Street to take over old American Legion building

The annual campaign, now in its 37th year, can help local residents recover from crisis situations.

By Susan Smiley-Height susan@magnoliamediaco.com

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he annual Community With A Heart (CWAH) campaign helps individuals and families living in Marion County. The goal of the program is to help those who have experienced an unexpected major life event get back on their feet. The scenarios might include not being able to get to a job because of car trouble or missing a rent payment or two and being in danger of becoming homeless.

The campaign, which relies on donations, begins in early November See Giving, page A3

Side view of American Legion building on Nov. 29, 2023. [Ocala Gazette]

By Caroline Brauchler caroline@ocalagazette.com

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he old American Legion Hall, which has sat vacant for years in Tuscawilla Park, will now be taken over by Ocala Main Street

to become the “Heart of the Park,” a downtown hub for entertainment, business, music and games.

The building, located at 516 NE Sanchez Ave., will feature a large ballroom space with art and history exhibits, equipment rental for use in

the park, a bodega, kitchen, OMS office space, restrooms and storage space, according to OMS Executive Director Jessica Fieldhouse.

“This is a project for our community,’’ Fieldhouse said.

She added that when the construction is finished in 2025,

“It’s something that’s going to be a landmark for generations to come and we really want to celebrate the history and the historic preservation of what has happened within that space.”

The city has agreed to a five-year lease with OMS to See American, page A5

Planning board denies proposed RaceTrac gas station, truck fuel stop Attachment C

LEGAL DESCRIPTION:

PARCEL A: A PORTION OF LANDS DESCRIBED IN OFFICIAL RECORDS BOOK OFFICIAL RECORDS BOOK 7302, PAGES 1337 AND 1338 OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA AND LYING IN THE NORTHWEST 1/4 OF THE NORTHWEST 1/4 OF SECTION 30, TOWNSHIP 13 SOUTH, RANGE 21 EAST, MARION COUNTY FLORIDA, BEING MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS:

Horse Farms Forever led the opposition to the project in the county’s Farmland Preservation Area. store. Meadowlands residents in the neighborhood off U.S. 441 expressed worry about the additional traffic, pointing out that the intersection is already dangerous and more traffic would create more problems. One speaker pointed out that with the Sunoco and the Circle K gas and convenience stores already on the east side of the intersection, there was “no need” for another gas station in the area.

Attorney Rob Batsel, representing the property owner, suggested a “Section 163” developer’s agreement to restrict the development on the parcel, but

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SAID LANDS CONTAIN 10.00 ACRES, MORE OR LESS.

that idea was rejected by county staff and the board.

Board member Danny Gaekwad spoke in favor of the Farmland Preservation Area and told county staff to “stand your ground” with regard to future incursions into the area and prevent urban sprawl.

TOGETHER WITH AN EASEMENT FOR INGRESS AND EGRESS BEING MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS:

PARCEL B: COMMENCE AT A CONCRETE MONUMENT AT THE SOUTHEAST CORNER OF LANDS DESCRIBED IN OFFICIAL RECORDS BOOK OFFICIAL RECORDS BOOK 7302, PAGES 1337 AND 1338 OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA; THENCE NORTH 00°21'01" EAST ALONG THE EASTERLY LINE OF SAID LANDS AND ALONG THE WESTERLY RIGHT OF WAY LINE OF U.S. HIGHWAY NO. 441/301 (STATE ROAD NO. 25-A), BEING A 200 FOOT WIDE RIGHT OF WAY ACCORDING TO STATE ROAD RIGHT OF WAY MAP SECTION 36001-2501, 396.54 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING; THENCE SOUTH 89°15'51" WEST, DEPARTING SAID RIGHT OF WAY LINE, 115.25 FEET; THENCE NORTH 00°21'01" EAST, 399.11 FEET; THENCE NORTH 89°15'51" EAST, 115.25 FEET TO A POINT ON THE AFOREMENTIONED WESTERLY RIGHT OF WAY LINE OF U.S. HIGHWAY NO. 441/301; THENCE SOUTH 00°21'01" WEST ALONG SAID WESTERLY RIGHT OF WAY LINE, 399.11 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING. SAID LANDS CONTAIN 1.06 ACRES, MORE OR LESS.

100 SQ. FT. LED, PRICE LOGO SIGN, X' TO TOP OF SIGN

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n the face of strong community opposition, the Marion County Planning & Zoning Commission has recommended denial of an application for a RaceTrac gas station, convenience store and truck fuel stop at the corner of County Road 329 and U.S. 441.

About 25 members of the public, including neighbors and representatives of Horse Farms Forever, attended the Nov. 27 P&Z meeting to oppose the project. County staff also reported receiving more than 30 letters of opposition.

The vote to deny was 4-1. The application next goes before the Marion County Board of County Commissioners on Dec. 19.

Horse Farm Forever’s concerns were presented by its president, Bernie Little. The group provided a full-color handout with detailed slides regarding the county’s Comprehensive Plan and Land Development Code. The proposal, the group wrote, is “fundamentally flawed.”

A key element of the applicant’s

proposal was the change in zoning from agricultural to Rural Commercial, an unusual classification. Rural Commercial zoning is used for parcels that are agriculture related and appropriate on rural lands. Typical uses would be a farm with a produce stand or a feed store.

The HFF presentation stated, “The use does not meet the requirement to use the Rural Commercial classification,” and violates the Comprehensive Plan and land development codes. Additionally, the group said, the applicant failed to meet the burden of proof and the “commission should recommend denial.”

An additional reason for denial was focused on the parcel’s location squarely within the Farmland Preservation Area.

County policy requires that zoning changes in the designated area “preserve, protect, support and enhance” the farmland character of the FPA. A gas station, staffers argued, does not meet that standard.

Public opposition included concerns about students attending nearby North Marion Middle School or North Marion High School being too close to potential problems at the convenience

PARCEL A RACETRAC REZONING REQUEST

RACETRAC MARKET 6,008 SQ. FT.

By Belea Keeney belea@magnoliamediaco.com

COMMENCE AT A CONCRETE MONUMENT AT THE SOUTHEAST CORNER OF SAID LANDS DESCRIBED IN OFFICIAL RECORDS BOOK OFFICIAL RECORDS BOOK 7302, PAGES 1337 AND 1338 OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA; THENCE NORTH 00°21'01" EAST ALONG THE EASTERLY LINE OF SAID LANDS AND ALONG THE WESTERLY RIGHT OF WAY LINE OF U.S. HIGHWAY NO. 441/301 (STATE ROAD NO. 25-A), BEING A 200 FOOT WIDE RIGHT OF WAY ACCORDING TO STATE ROAD RIGHT OF WAY MAP SECTION 36001-2501, 795.65 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING; THENCE SOUTH 89°15'51" WEST, DEPARTING SAID RIGHT OF WAY LINE, 899.85 FEET; THENCE NORTH 00°21'01" EAST, 427.42 FEET TO A POINT ON THE SOUTHERLY RIGHT OF WAY LINE OF WEST HIGHWAY 329, BEING A 50 FOOT WIDE COUNTY ROAD RIGHT OF WAY PER MARION COUNTY ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT RESURFACING MAP, PROJECT NO. 77,764, DATED 6/13/19, SAID POINT ALSO BEING ON THE ARC OF A CURVE CONCAVE SOUTHEASTERLY; THENCE NORTHEASTERLY ALONG THE ARC OF SAID CURVE AND ALONG SAID SOUTHERLY RIGHT OF WAY LINE, HAVING A RADIUS OF 675.00 FEET AND A CENTRAL ANGLE OF 21°55'42", 258.34 FEET AND BEING SUBTENDED BY A CHORD BEARING AND DISTANCE OF NORTH 75°02'57" EAST, 256.76 FEET TO A POINT; THENCE NORTH 89°15'44" EAST, CONTINUING ALONG SAID SOUTHERLY RIGHT OF WAY LINE, 652.15 FEET TO A POINT OF INTERSECTION WITH THE AFOREMENTIONED WESTERLY RIGHT OF WAY LINE OF U.S. HIGHWAY NO. 441/301; THENCE SOUTH 00°21'01" WEST ALONG SAID WESTERLY RIGHT OF WAY LINE, 490.50 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING.

PARCEL B EASEMENT RACETRAC REZONING REQUEST REMAINING CAUTHEN PROPERTY

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DECEMBER 1 - DECEMBER 7, 2023 | OCALA GAZETTE

School impact fees Continued from page A1 agreement between the respective local bodies of government.

The request by Ocala came after the school district provided the city and county with a draft copy of an ordinance during a joint workshop held on Aug. 16.

In that initial ordinance drafted by the school district based on the recommendations of a consulting firm company and presented at the joint workshop, the rates and categories were: Single-family detached/mobile home on a lot, per dwelling unit: $4,337 Multifamily (apartments), per dwelling unit: $4,114 Mobile home park, per dwelling unit: $2,866 Single-family attached/townhouse, per dwelling unit: $2,020 Multifamily (condominiums), per dwelling unit: $1,990 The school district’s initial fee schedule was at 40% of what the consultant firm Benesch recommended.

When Marion County suspended collecting school impact fees in 2011, the fees were at $3,967 for a singlefamily home.

Ocala representatives, however, said the multifamily apartment housing pricing structure needed to be tiered based on the number of bedrooms for each unit.

However, the consensus was that since there is no easy way to determine how many bedrooms each multifamily unit had across the county, the county, city, and school district officials agreed during the meeting that Benesch would reassess multifamily apartments based instead on square footage.

School Board member Nancy Thrower, who chairs the TWG, indicated that the consultants would charge the district approximately $6,000 for the analysis. She said she hoped to deliver the updated report to the county and municipalities by the end of January.

The county plans to schedule another joint workshop during the first quarter after it receives the updated study and a new draft of the school district’s proposed ordinance with only changes to its multifamily apartments.

Once the report is received and the draft ordinance finalized, it will be up to the county commissioners to approve. Representatives from the county indicated at the meeting they did not want to delay considering the school district’s ordinance and understood that the only modification to the prior draft ordinance considered would be an updated fee schedule as it relates to multifamily apartment units.

Although the county as the levying authority votes on the ordinance, for collection of impact fees to occur, municipalities must provide for it.

“The municipalities’ ‘vote’ would be to provide for collection within the municipality if there are any defects to amend, or to refuse to do so and withdraw from the agreement with 60 days notice. Collection can only occur when the substantial majority of countywide population in municipalities would be subject to imposition and collection,” Jeremy Powers, attorney for the school district explained to the Gazette.

Powers says that if municipalities “ultimately choose not to participate” that it “would torpedo collection.”

Photos by Bruce Ackerman Ocala Gazette

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Tye Chighizola of the City of Ocala, speaks during the Technical Working Group meeting at Marion Technical Institute on East Fort King Street in Ocala on Monday, Nov. 27, 2023.

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“Collection can only occur when the substantial majority of countywide population in municipalities would be subject to imposition and collection.”

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David Herlihy of Marion County Public Schools, right, speaks as Diane Gullett, the Superintendent of Marion County Public Schools, left, listens.

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Members of Marion County, Commissioner Michelle Stone, from left, County Administrator Mounir Bouyounes, Tracy Straub, the county second assistant administrator and Chuck Varadin, listen.

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DECEMBER 1 - DECEMBER 7, 2023 | OCALA GAZETTE

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Continued from page A1 and runs through the middle of January.

The nonprofit group is governed by a board of 13 members who are affiliated with area help agencies. Those who are seeking assistance must apply through one of the agencies on the board, present recent documentation of the need and demonstrate self-sustainability.

“Community With A Heart is often the lifeline for individuals and families who don’t qualify for assistance with other local agencies,” said board chair Monica Bryant, the Family Violence Prevention Coordinator with the Marion County Children’s Alliance. “The key is, they must be able to pay their bills the following month if they get help.”

Now in its 37th year, CWAH has collected more than $1.8 million, of which just over $30,000 was raised during the 2023-2024 campaign. All of the donations go directly to help local residents.

The CWAH board members meet once a week during the campaign to review applications that have been vetted by board members. The board member must make a home visit and the applicant must show documentation to verify the need, such as two estimates from a certified car repair shop, if they are requesting help to get their car fixed or a current mortgage or rental statement showing how much they owe.

The board reviews each case and votes on who receives support. It has to be a majority vote and no money goes to the person; it goes to the landlord, the car repair shop, or the business providing the service. There is a cap of assistance at $1,200 and approved applicants may not apply again for three years.

Often, local businesses, churches and volunteers donate their services to stretch the giving even further, such as in the case of Casaundra Park, who needed her car fixed to get her daughter, who was diagnosed with a terminal illness, to medical appointments outside of Marion County. CWAH assisted the family by paying for the car repairs.

“Considering the current state of our economy right now, for many, CWAH is the only option,” Bryant said. “There’s

“There’s definitely still a need for this program because we get calls year-round for help. I’m grateful the community continues to support it so we can help those who need a hand up, not a handout.”

Monica Bryant

definitely still a need for this program because we get calls year-round for help.

I’m grateful the community continues to support it so we can help those who need a hand up, not a handout.”

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To support the Community With A Heart campaign, make a donation online at ocalafoundation.org/ community-foundation-funds/ community-with-a-heart or mail a check to CWAH Fund, P.O. Box 1777, Ocala, FL 34478. Donations are tax deductible and go directly to help residents in Marion County.

How to apply for CWAH assistance:

To seek help from Community With a Heart, contact one of the following agencies for a referral to the program to receive assistance: Marion County Children’s Alliance, Brother’s Keeper, Interfaith Emergency Services, Marion County Public Schools, Community Legal Services of Mid-Florida Inc., Ocala Housing Authority, Isaiah Foundation, Central Florida Community Action Agency, Marion County Community Services, Habitat for Humanity and Cleve Butler and James Jackson, who are Community-at- Large members.

The CWAH program does not have a direct phone number. For questions or information, call one of the agencies listed above or go to fb.com/profile. php?id=100075921828652 to send a message. Please allow 24-48 hours to receive a response.

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Ongoing needs for CWAH:

• Marion County Children’s Alliance: Funds for emergency shelter in motel/ hotel for victims and survivors of domestic violence, gas cards and new, unwrapped toys or gift cards for youth 12 to 18 years old. (352) 438-5993.

• Brother’s Keeper: Gas cards, bus passes, non-perishable food items and unwrapped toys for children ages 1-12. (352) 622-3846 • Interfaith Emergency Services: Towels, gloves, bus passes, new socks and underwear for adults and nonperishable food items (352) 629-8868.

Grant Support by:

File photo: The Community With A Heart board meets at the Emergency Operations Center at the Marion County Sheriff’s Office in Ocala on Thursday, Nov. 17, 2022. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2022.

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DECEMBER 1 - DECEMBER 7, 2023 | OCALA GAZETTE

Quilters honor veterans

10 local veterans received Quilts of Valor during moving ceremony in Ocala.

Photos by Bruce Ackerman Ocala Gazette

Members of the Country Road Quilters, Lisa Slinsky, left, and Betty Arahood, display the quilt given to Frida Brannon, a U.S. Air Force veteran who served from 1975-1981 during the Quilts of Valor presentation at St. Mark’s United Methodist Church in Ocala on Thursday, Nov. 16, 2023. Ten quilts were presented to veterans to honor them for their service during the Quilts of Valor ceremony.

By Andy Fillmore andy@ocalagazette.com

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en veterans were honored for their service and sacrifice during a Quilts of Valor presentation held by the Country Roads Quilters of Ocala on Nov.16 at St. Mark’s Methodist Church in Ocala. The occasionally emotional presentation ceremony saw the veterans receive handmade quilts, many with patriotic themes or special meaning to the veteran. A label attached to each quilt stated it was meant to “honor and comfort those touched by war.”

Vietnam War veteran Robert Mills, 67, served with the Second AirNaval Gunfire Liaison Company, or ANGLICO, on assignments including forward observer for artillery and airborne. He was clearly moved by the gift and sentiment.

“This is great. It’s a good feeling to be honored by the people we served.

We Vietnam veterans didn’t get any parades for our first homecoming, but this quilt makes me feel appreciated,” he said.

Mills said he comes from a family of military service members and when he saw an uncle in a U.S. Marine Corps dress blues uniform, he decided to join the Marines.

Mills’ colorful quilt has a label attached that reads: “Made by Country Roads Quilters of Ocala, quilted by Pam Leese.”

Mills first stood in front of his outstretched quilt and was then wrapped in the quilt by presenters.

His daughter, Ulysa Muirhead, a local psychologist, was on hand for the presentation.

“Amazing,” she said of her father’s service. Muirhead also is a veteran and her son, Donovan Muirhead, is serving in the Marine Corp. Robert Mills’ son, Robert Mills III, is serving in the U.S. Army and is deployed to Iraq. Mills’ friend, Willie Watts, also attended the ceremony.

The Quilts of Valor Foundation is a national nonprofit outreach that began in 2003, when founder Catherine Roberts dreamed of a young man plagued by the horrors of war while her son, Nat, was deployed to Iraq, according to qovf.org.

Roberts envisioned the young man in her dream wrapped in a comforting quilt and his “whole demeanor changed from one of despair to one of hope and well-being. The quilt had made this dramatic change,” the website states.

According to the Quilts of Valor Foundation April 2023 newsletter by Executive Director Lori Thompson, the organization has 10,000 volunteers who “create and award” an average of 30,000 Quilts of Valor annually for “service members and veterans.

Cathy Washburn of the Country Roads Quilters of Ocala said the group previously gave their completed quilts to other groups for presentation but now the local group is a Quilts of Valor Group Member and can host their own presentations. Washburn and Buffy Sutherland, president of Country Roads Quilters, serve as Quilts of Valor Group

Leaders. Washburn explained that the quilts are usually group efforts, with a number of members involved in the finished quilt.

JoEllen Oppliger has been with Country Roads Quilters since 2013. She said the quilts—the size recommended

by Quilts of Valor is 60 inches by 80 inches—can take from 60 to 80 hours to fabricate. She said she puts her “heart and love” into the quilt work and that the group does the quilting for the love of veterans.

Oppliger was involved in making a Quilt of Valor with a red, white and blue colored scene of an eagle on a motorcycle for Army veteran Phillip Friedli. She said the quilt would be “meaningful to him.”

Friedli served from 1970 to 1972. He is a Vietnam War veteran and served as a combat medic. Friedli indicated after the presentation that he has ridden “two wheelers” since childhood.

Quilter Lisa Slinsky sees the quilts as a meaningful expression of gratitude for the service of veterans. Her son, Alan Slinsky, 39, is serving in the Army.

Lisa Corneilson, an educator, has been a quilter for 40 years. She said the craft is a “family tradition.”

Tommy Harris, a quilter for about 25 years, is one of perhaps three male quilters in the 99-member group.

Husband and wife Lynn and Michael McKinney were both honored with Quilts of Valor. They served in the Navy from 1998 to 2003 and met while in the Navy in 1999. He also served in the National Guard from 2007 to 2018.

Quilt of Valor recipient Frida (Jones) Brannon served in the Air Force from 1975 to 1981 as an airframe mechanic and in law enforcement, in locales including Arizona, Mexico and Hawaii.

Recipient Leroy Thompson served in the Navy from 1959 to 1965, including on a destroyer involved in actions during the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis.

He was accompanied by his wife, Joan Thompson, and daughter Leigh-Ann Thompson, who nominated her father for the Quilts of Valor presentation.

Joe Shay, an Army squad leader during the Vietnam War, also was a recipient. He said when he returned home in 1969, he was called names and “beat up” and he appreciates the change in outlook by the public. Shay’s neighbor and Desert Storm veteran Drew Pearce attended to support his fellow veteran.

Army veteran Daniel McCarroll, who served from 1987 to 2017, and Marine Corps veteran Diego Martinez, who served from 2012 to 2017, also received Quilts of Valor.

Recipient Gary Guevara, 61, who served in the Army from 1980 to 1984, said he thought the event was “fantastic.”

Guevara’s girlfriend, Lisa DeGuzman, took note of his emotional reaction to the ceremony.

“He had something in his eye a few times,” she said.

To learn more about the Country Road Quilters of Ocala, go to crq-ocala.org

Frida Brannon, a U.S. Air Force veteran who served from 1975-1981, second from left, gets wrapped up in her quilt by members of the Country Road Quilters, Cathy Washburn, Lisa Slinsky and Betty Arahood, left to right.

Robert Mills, a veteran who served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1973-1979, center, poses for photos in front of his quilt with his daughter, Ulysa Muirhead, right, and Kelly Niehaus of the Country Road Quilters, left.

“This is great.

It’s a good feeling to be honored by the people we served.

We Vietnam veterans didn’t get any parades for our first homecoming, but this quilt makes me feel appreciated.”

Robert Mills Phillip Friedli, a U.S. Army veteran who served from 1970-1972, right, poses for photos in front of his quilt with JoEllen Oppliger of the Country Road Quilters, who nominated him to receive a quilt.

Lynn McKinney, a U.S. Navy veteran who served from 1998-2003, right, poses for photos in front of her quilt with Linda Renderer of the Country Road Quilters, left, who nominated her to receive the quilt.

Gary Guevara, a U.S. Army veteran who served from 1980-1984, second from right, gets emotional as he thanks people as he gets wrapped up in his quilt by Beth DiBiasio of the Country Road Quilters, left, as his girlfriend, Lisa DeGuzman, right, looks on.

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DECEMBER 1 - DECEMBER 7, 2023 | OCALA GAZETTE

American Legion

Man arrested in connection to New Year’s shooting deaths

By Andy Fillmore andy@ocalagazette.com

previously tied to Jones in a February shooting investigated by the Marion County Sheriff ’s Office.

OPD investigation also revealed Jones was in the area hours before the shootings at the block party, the warrant stated.

The charging officer wrote in part in the warrant that he thought Jones was “part of the group which began the ambush shooting into the crowd from the north side of Southwest 5th Street resulting in the deaths and injuries…”

The warrant also indicated Jones was seen in photos in Ocala “with his firearm” 6.5 hours before and 31.5 hours after the shooting.

The warrant indicates gunfire was reported at the block party from the north and south sides of the streets.

Two people have been identified as having shot from the south side of Southwest 5th Street and “numerous names have been reported” in connection with being shooters from the north side of the roadway, the warrant stated.

Jones denied being at the block party.

As the OPD investigation continues, anyone with information about the case can submit an anonymous tip to Crime Stoppers of Marion County by calling (352) 368-7867 or at OcalaCrimeStoppers.com. The OPD case number is #202300000072

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he Ocala Police Department arrested a 19-year-old man on Nov. 22 in connection with the deaths of two people who were shot during a block party in southwest Ocala on Jan.1.

Lebron Jones was arrested by the OPD B-Squad night patrol and stands charged with two counts of second-degree murder with a firearm and four counts of attempted second-degree murder with a firearm, according to an OPD press release.

D’amonta Harris,30, and Abdul Hakeem Van Croskey,24, died, and four other people were injured in a shooting that occurred at a New Year’s block party involving about 100 people in the 1600 block of Southwest 5th Street, the press release stated.

Officers responded to the location around 4:30 a.m., according to the release.

“The investigation revealed that a small group of people ambushed the party with firearms, indiscriminately shooting into the crowd. OPD Detective Boyer identified (Jones) as one of the shooters,” the press release stated.

According to the OPD probable cause warrant, a shell casing found at the block party crime scene was matched to a weapon

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fishing poles, basketballs and maybe one day motorized boats, Fieldhouse said.

OMS plans to invest $202,000 into the project.

Its funding will come from corporate donations and go toward new ceilings, floors and lights; adding a View of Tuscawilla Park from the back of the American Legion building on Nov. 29, deck and windows 2023. [Ocala Gazette] to overlook the lake; renovating to make space for a public museum, Continued from page A1 office space, concessions, kitchen and venue; and utilities. turn the old building into the “Heart In its proposal, OMS asks the city of the Park.” OMS, a local nonprofit, to handle structural renovations, works to revitalize downtown to HVAC, major maintenance, additional enrich the community, celebrate the parking and property insurance. arts and embrace history.

The inspiration for the project “The main area will be a museum and we want to have a collection of all came in part from Forsyth Park in Savannah, Georgia, as the similar of the different museums around the trees and foliage at the south end of county as a kind of one-stop-shop for Tuscawilla Park are well-suited for all of the history of Ocala and then really celebrate the downtown history picnicking, hammocking and relaxing, Fieldhouse said. as well,” Fieldhouse said.

The renovations for the building The building has not been used will include a small bodega for grabby the American Legion for nearly and-go food options, perfect to take 10 years, and in the years since has on a picnic, she said. infrequently been used as a meeting The construction will take place space for the city. Fieldhouse said in two phases, the first with an OMS hopes to see a reduction in anticipated completion of December crime and vagrancy in the area 2024 and the second with an when the building is revitalized as a anticipated completion of May 2025. community hub.

Phase one of construction will be to Upon completion, the main complete the deck, interior ballroom ballroom and museum area of the and office. Phase two will be to building will be available for rental complete the multipurpose room and to the public as a venue for weddings, grab-and-go store, Fieldhouse said. parties and other events. There will “We hope that we can activate this also be multiuse space for community space in a way that it will be beneficial groups and clubs, she said. for our community for decades to The building will also facilitate come,” she said. equipment rental for use in the park, such as for tennis rackets, balls,

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A6

DECEMBER 1 - DECEMBER 7, 2023 | OCALA GAZETTE

Ambulance, bus, truck collision sends several to hospital were taken to a local hospital with minor injuries, the Facebook post stated.

A call made to the number listed for the operator of the bus was answered but no comment was immediately available.

An FHP press release issued Tuesday night confirmed the 2019 MCFR Chevrolet ambulance was “traveling with its emergency equipment activated.”

The FHP press release states the injuries to the 67-year-old female driver of the 2022 Chevrolet bus and 20-year-old male driver and 40-year-old male passenger in the MCFR ambulance were all listed as “serious.”

All three people were from Ocala and were wearing seat belts.

The condition of the driver of the pickup, a Dodge Ram, was not listed, but the driver was transported to a local hospital.

The MCFR post reminded drivers to “yield to emergency vehicles as our lights and sirens are on.”

[Supplied by Marion County Fire Rescue]

Staff report

A

collision between a Marion County Fire Rescue paramedic ambulance responding to a medical call with lights and siren operating and a private bus and pickup truck at a southwest Ocala intersection the morning of Nov. 28 resulted in the ambulance rolling over and more than a dozen people being transported for medical care or observation, according to reports.

FHP Public Affairs Officer Lt. Patrick Riordan said the MCFR unit was traveling west

on Southwest 90th Street when a collision occurred between a bus operated by a local adult day training center and a pickup truck at the intersection with Southwest 80th Avenue. The bus and pickup truck were described by Riordan as traveling southbound “side by side” on Southwest 80th Avenue. The intersection is controlled by a traffic light, Riordan stated.

MCFR Public Information Officer James Lucas said via phone and text that the unit was headed to a call from Station 21 (Friendship Fire Station). No patient was onboard and the

ambulance “was running lights and sirens to a medical call” when the crash occurred, he said.

“We sent an additional rescue to the original medical call. Our rescue crew members have been released from the hospital,” Lucas wrote in a text later in the day.

An MCFR Facebook page post states that units were dispatched to the crash scene at 8:59 a.m. and indicates 911 callers said an MCFR unit “was hit and rolled over.”

The unit was identified as No. 621 in photos courtesy of MCFR. The Facebook post states that 15 people were transported to

local hospitals. Of the 11 people on the bus, eight were transported as a precautionary measure and three had minor injuries.

The bus and pickup truck drivers were transported with unspecified injuries and the two MCFR firefighters [Supplied by Marion County Fire Rescue]

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DECEMBER 1 - DECEMBER 7, 2023 | OCALA GAZETTE

Potential septic-to-sewer project for Lake Weir Early surveying shows most residents not in favor

File photo of Lake Weir [Alan Youngblood/Special to the Ocala Gazette]

By Caroline Brauchler caroline@ocalagazette.com

A

s part of the preliminary stages of a potential conversion from septic tanks to a sewer system in a part of Lake Weir, Marion County surveyed a number of residents on their feelings toward the idea—with the vast majority of respondents saying they are against it.

Of the 503 residents of North Shore Lake Weir the petition was sent to, 276 responded. Of those, 82% were against the project.

The results of the petition were presented to the Marion County Board of County Commissioners at the Nov. 7 meeting. The results are not binding and do not dictate whether the project will move forward or not. They will,

however, provide the board with a general idea of the community’s sentiment.

Brian Creekbaum, a longtime enjoyer of Lake Weir, told the commissioners at the meeting that even with the potential environmental benefits of the septic-to-sewer project, the high number of negative responses is due to the hefty price tag.

In a letter sent to residents along with the survey, the county said the proposed improvements would cost from $45,000 to $50,000 per property, payable over the course of 20 years through their property tax bill.

“I think there’s some disagreement about septic tank impact,’’ Creekbaumn said, “but I believe sticker shock is the primary driver of the negative vote.’’

Creekbaum shared his

connection and affinity for the lake, saying that his grandparents lived on East Lake Weir in the early 1900s. He has often visited his family’s cottage there and said he has used the Carney Island boat ramp throughout his life.

“I am here today to take the position that (the county) should take a leading role in determining these things and take the lead in any necessary implementation because a vital public asset is involved,” he said.

The county detailed the potential benefits of the project in the petition that was sent to the residents of the part of Lake Weir that the project would impact.

“The purpose of the Project is to eliminate nutrients (nitrogen and phosphorus) and potential pathogens released by septic systems into the environment

surrounding Lake Weir,” according to the petition. “The goal of the project is to help improve water quality in Lake Weir and preserve the lake as an important recreational destination for residents and visitors to enjoy.”

Transitioning from septic tanks to a sewer system could have a number of benefits for the quality of water of the lake, as septic systems can “negatively impact not only our drinking water but the quality of our ecosystem and aquatic life,” according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency When it comes to the proposed septic-to-sewer project and future endeavors for ensuring the lake’s longevity as a public asset, Creekbaum believes the county should utilize state funds to complete this project and regularly participate and take a stronger role in preservation.

“There needs to be a countysanctioned assessment of Lake Weir based on the best science and a plan of action developed to address problems,” he said.

The Save Lake Weir Association is a private organization that studies the pollutant levels, water quality and wildlife of the lake. It actively works to protect, preserve and restore the lake while educating the public, according to its website.

“You should not expect a private (organization) to shoulder all the load and preserving public assets such as the lake and the park,” Creekbaum said.

Save Lake Weir collects samples from the Big Lake, Sunset Harbor and the Little Lake monthly. The organization’s studies show a 54% increase in nitrogen levels and a 19% decrease in water clarity since 1985.

The county has explored alternative methods of funding the project that could reduce, but not eliminate, the cost for taxpayers. The county applied on Aug. 23 for a grant through the Water Quality Improvement Program through the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, which could potentially allocate “millions of dollars” toward the project.

“This grant would significantly reduce the cost for property owners over a 20-year period.

The amount of this grant would be determined on need, and we won’t know how much unless we are awarded the grant,” said Marion County spokesperson Bobbi Perez in an email.

Despite the initial negative reaction and taking into account that the quality of the lake is not a direct responsibility of the county, Perez said the county has taken the initiative to help residents with costs if the project moves forward.

“Marion County’s proactive approach aims to assist residents in this matter,’’ she wrote.

“However, if the property owners decide against any future assessment, the responsibility to finance individual septic-to-sewer conversions will fall solely on the property owner.”

As for the lake’s future, Marion County residents like Creekbaum will continue to enjoy Lake Weir for years to come, with the hope that everyone will take as much interest and care in it as his family always has.

“My mother distributed (my grandfather’s) ashes on the Big Lake and mine are going in the Little Lake,” Creekbaum said. “Though, hopefully, not anytime soon.”

IHMC Lecture Series Powered by:

Morley Stone THE TALK: The Quantified Human – future opportunities and implications for healthspan, resilience and performance

OPEN HOUSE Wednesday, Dec. 6

www.ihmc.com 15 S.E. Osceola Avenue Downtown Ocala Co-hosted by:

11 a.m.-4 p.m. | Ocala Campus Ewers Century Center | 3001 S.W. College Road Tuesday December 5, 2023

Tour the campus.

Explore more than 170 academic pathways.

Meet with admissions and financial aid teams to find out about the application process and affording college.

Can’t make it? Drop in our online Zoom meeting between 1-2:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 12!

Register at CF.edu/OpenHouse

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CF.edu 352-873-5800

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

More than a decade after publishing The Quantified Warrior, an even more transformative future exists for redefining healthspan, resilience and performance with the rapid pace of technological improvement surrounding wearables, their associated data, and our ever-increasing understanding of the data with respect to human physiology and overall performance. In this presentation, I will talk about a feedback loop we refer to as Sense-Assess-Augment (SAA), a concept that underpins our view of the quantified human. While this work has its roots in military-specific examples I will cover, the application of this concept goes well beyond the military, with future examples in rehabilitation, neuromuscular disease, healthspan and more broadly, a future of human-machine teaming that will be ubiquitous in our everyday lives.

Dr. Morley Stone is Chief Strategic Partnership Officer and Senior Research Scientist at the Florida Institute for Human & Machine Cognition (IHMC) and CEO of Mined XAI LLC. Previously, Dr. Stone served as the Senior Vice President for Research at The Ohio State University (2018-2021) and prior to OSU, Morley served as the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) for the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) from 2014 to 2018. Before that, he served for more than six years as the Chief Scientist of AFRL’s 711th Human Performance Wing and from 2003 to 2006, he was a Program Manager in the Defense Sciences Office (DSO) of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA). While in government service, Morley was awarded the Office of the Secretary of Defense Medal for Exceptional Civilian Service, the Federal 100 Award, and the Presidential Rank Award for Meritorious Service. In total, Morley spent 29 years with AFRL and its predecessor organizations, starting with the labs as a student intern in 1989. He is a Fellow of both AFRL and SPIE (International Society for Optics and Photonics).

Dr. Stone earned his PhD in biochemistry from Carnegie Mellon University and his research interests are broad spanning areas such as the interface of materials science, biotechnology, human performance, and autonomous systems.

Personally, Morley has been married to Kelly for over 32 years, they reside in Pensacola and have two grown children, Carson and Caleb.

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A8

DECEMBER 1 - DECEMBER 7, 2023 | OCALA GAZETTE

Nonprofit shows off new campus

By Susan Smiley-Height susan@magnoliamediaco.com

Photos by Bruce Ackerman

T

he temperature may have been chilly, but the hearts were warm as a large crowd gathered on Nov. 28 to celebrate the opening of the Wear Gloves downtown ministry center.

The nonprofit organization founded by Wendy and Ken Kebrdle has outreaches that include Dignity House, Dignity Center, Dignity Roasters and Church in the Garden, all to help people achieve or regain independence by working.

The mission of Wear Gloves is to allow those in need to earn what they need. The Dignity Center, for example, partners with local manufacturers who outsource work to the facility. Through Dignity Roasters, clients learn to roast, package and ship coffee as training in food handling. The programs have been so successful the organization needed a bigger space in which to operate.

The new campus is located at 98 NE 9th St., Ocala. Guests at Tuesday’s event took tours, enjoyed refreshments and heard from the Kebrdles and other speakers.

“We were amazed but not surprised by the outpouring of love and support shown to us by our community. So many people worked hard to create the event and it was a beautiful night,” said Wendy Kebrdle on Wednesday.

To learn more, go to weargloves.org

Ocala Gazette

Below: People gather together on the Wear Gloves campus.

Wendy Kebrdle of Wear Gloves speaks to people during the celebration and ribbon cutting for the Wear Gloves downtown ministry center in Ocala on Tuesday, Nov. 28, 2023.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING OCALA BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT Kelly Juarez, Jose Juarez and Dan Wilcox, left to right, volunteer to serve food.

MARY SUE RICH RECEIVES STATEWIDE HOMETOWN HERO AWARD

L

ongtime Ocala City Councilwoman Mary Sue Rich, a graduate of the College of Central Florida, was recognized with the LeRoy Collins “Hometown Hero” Distinguished Alumni Award at the Association of Florida Colleges Annual Conference in Orlando in early November.

Rich is a graduate of Central Florida Community College (now the College of Central Florida) and the University of Central Florida. She was born and raised in Ocala and was the first Black woman elected to the Ocala City Council.

She served for 24 years. In 2019, the Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place was named after Rich and community activist Ruth Reed, honoring their community service. Throughout the years, Rich has received many honors, including the CF Foundation’s Distinguished Alumni Award in 2001.

“We are so proud that the Association of Florida Colleges recognized the outstanding qualities, service and leadership Mrs. Rich possesses with this statewide

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

[Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2023.

recognition,” stated Chris Knife, Vice President of Institutional Advancement and CEO of the CF Foundation in a news release. “She truly exemplifies what it means to be a CF alumna.”

Named in honor of former Governor LeRoy Collins, a champion of the state’s college system, the LeRoy Collins Distinguished Alumni Awards are held every two years to give the Florida College System the opportunity to recognize those who inspire and excel in our communities. Each college is eligible to submit one nominee, but only four alumni across Florida receive the distinction of being a LeRoy Collins Distinguished Alumni. Award recipients must have achieved success within their college service district and demonstrated notable community involvement. The award was conferred to Rich at the conference’s Presidential Gala Dinner on Thursday, Nov. 2.

For more information, visit myafchome.org.

The Ocala Board of Adjustment will consider the following petition at its meeting on Monday, December 18, 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.

SOUTHEAST 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: Joseph Carvalho; Case: VAR23-45392; A request to reduce the front yard setback from twenty (20) feet to thirteen (13) 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.

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.

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.

A9

DECEMBER 1 - DECEMBER 7, 2023 | OCALA GAZETTE

State Grand jury calls for immigration moves

By Jim Saunders Florida News Service

A

statewide grand jury has issued a 146-page report that calls for taking a series of steps to try to curb illegal immigration, saying “it will be up to Florida and other states to help themselves, at least in the short term,” as problems go unsolved at the federal level.

The report, posted Monday on the Florida Supreme Court website, includes calling for further attempts to crack down on businesses that hire undocumented immigrants, probing non-government organizations and collecting fees on transfers of money from Florida to other countries.

“We learned that, if anything, many Floridians are ( just as we were before undertaking this inquiry) almost dangerously naive and unaware of the true magnitude and malevolence of the illegal immigration industry,’ the grand jury said in the report.

“What we discovered has been at varying times sobering, upsetting, depressing, and the cause of

significant outrage.”

The grand jury, impaneled last year at the request of Gov. Ron DeSantis, also issued four earlier reports, or presentments.

But the report made public Monday delves into a wide range of issues, such as efforts to prevent employers from hiring undocumented immigrants.

DeSantis and the Republicancontrolled Legislature this spring approved a bill (SB 1718) that included requiring businesses with 25 or more employees to use the federal E-Verify system to check the immigration status of workers. The grand jury called for eliminating the exemption for businesses with fewer than 25 employees, saying it “provides too many incentives for the unscrupulous to ‘game the system.’”

The report also called for addressing issues related to licensing general contractors.

It pointed to loopholes in which contractors “simply pass all liability for verification of employee eligibility to work to a third party, usually a subcontractor or labor staffing agency—there are ‘subs of subs of

subs’ on some projects.”

“Accordingly, we recommend that our lawmakers assess the feasibility of either requiring general contractors to ultimately be fully and directly legally responsible for ensuring their subcontractors hire only legal workers, or requiring any employee staffing agency or any person or business which provides employees to work for another, to register with the state’s Department of Labor and be bound by Florida’s new e-verify requirements,” the report said, apparently referring to the state Department of Economic Opportunity. The state does not have a Department of Labor.

The grand jury also sharply criticized some non-government agencies, or NGOs, that receive federal money to help undocumented immigrants.

The report alleged that “several NGOs actively obstructed our investigation, refusing to provide subpoenaed information and refusing to answer some direct questions.”

It recommended the formation of another statewide grand jury to focus on non-government

organizations, though it did not identify organizations in the allegations.

“These NGOs do not truly or exclusively operate as humanitarians,” the report said.

“They do not spend federal grant money to convince alien populations not to risk a lifethreatening odyssey. Rather, they magnify the magnetic illusion of economic prosperity at the end of a migratory trek.”

The report also took aim at what are known as “remittances,” or money sent by immigrants in the U.S. to other countries. It said remittances can be linked to criminal activities, such as money laundering and human smuggling.

Borrowing an idea from Oklahoma, the grand jury recommended that Florida collect a fee on transactions involving money leaving the state and going to other countries.

“Even discounting the opportunity to identify criminal activity and cut into cartel profits this represents, there are ample reasons to support such a fee,” the report said. “To begin with, this is a staggering amount of

money which is leaving not just the economy of our state, but that of our entire country. It will never be taxed, spent, or invested into our state and its people. It is gone. Florida should recoup at least some portion of it, especially because these types of transfers are ‘ripe for criminal exploitation.’ These funds may be from legitimate income, but may also be either earned illegally or the product of criminal activity.”

DeSantis last year asked the Supreme Court to approve impaneling the grand jury as he and Attorney General Ashley Moody focused heavily on immigration issues. Moody, among other things, has filed or signed onto lawsuits against the Biden administration challenging the federal border policies.

Criticizing federal policies also has been part of DeSantis’ presidential campaign.

The grand jury was impaneled in the 10th Judicial Circuit, which is made up of Polk, Hardee and Highlands counties. The grand jury had been scheduled to end Nov. 1, but the Supreme Court in August approved extending its term to April 2024.

Lawmaker budget requests start to pile up

By Jim Turner Florida News Service

F

lorida lawmakers are championing hundreds of projects and seeking billions of dollars as they prepare for the start of the 2024 legislative session in January.

Topped by $50 million requests for expanding water storage and treatment in the Lake Okeechobee and Caloosahatchee River basins and for speeding up private passenger rail between Orlando and Tampa, House members as of Monday morning had filed just under 1,500 separate proposals that would require $3.1 billion to fund.

The rail proposal (House Form 1989), filed by Rep. Karen Gonzalez Pittman, R-Tampa, would boost the Brightline passenger service, which recently completed a Miami-to-Orlando line and has eyed the Interstate 4 corridor for a link to Tampa.

“Advancing structure improvements within the I-4 Corridor will accelerate the passenger rail connection from Tampa to the Orlando International Airport, West Palm Beach, Boca Raton, Ft. Lauderdale, Aventura and Miami,” the request form said. “Upon completion of this effort, it

will provide access to nearly 16 million Florida citizens and 118 million visitors throughout the service area.”

The water storage and treatment proposal (House Form 2445), filed by Rep. Kaylee Tuck, R-Lake Placid, involves a project in Glades County.

“This will provide significant nutrient removal, reduce discharge to the Caloosahatchee with high nutrient levels and provide a clean source of water to supplement dry season flows to the Caloosahatchee River,” the form said.

Meanwhile, senators had submitted 332 projects that call for about $675 million in funding.

Among large Senate proposals is $26.2 million (Senate Form 1203) sought by Appropriations Chairman Sen. Doug Broxson, R-Gulf Breeze, to construct a research wing for the Hal Marcus College of Science and Engineering at the University of West Florida.

“Currently UWF is leasing research space in downtown Pensacola,” Broxson’s request said. “When constructed, the building addition will allow for labs currently housed in remote off campus leased facilities to be brought back to campus.”

The wing received $21.1 million in the

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state budget for the 2023-2024 fiscal year, which started July 1.

Lawmakers will consider the new batches of requests as they draw up a budget for the 2024-2025 year during the upcoming session. Many of the requests will not get funded or will not receive the full amounts sought by lawmakers.

Requests will continue to roll in over the next month as lawmakers hope to bring home money for their districts.

Many proposals, for example, are aimed at helping local sports, historic and arts organizations and increasing funding for schools and environmental and transportation projects.

Among the other big-ticket proposals already submitted: --- A $43 million proposal (House Form 2447), filed by Rep. Wyman Duggan, R-Jacksonville, to develop a riverfront plaza project in Jacksonville.

--- A $40.2 million proposal (House Form 1862), filed by Duggan, for a construction project at the University of North Florida.

--- A $40 million proposal, filed by Rep. Chase Tramont, R-Port Orange, for a project on West International Speedway Boulevard in Volusia County.

--- A pair of $36 million proposals

(Senate Form 1116 and House Form 1998), filed by Sen. Jason Brodeur, R-Sanford, and Rep. David Smith, R-Winter Springs, to build a new workforce training building at Seminole State College of Florida.

--- A $25.65 million proposal (Senate Form 1112), filed by Sen. Shevrin Jones, D-Miami Gardens, that would help Florida Atlantic University with issues such as increasing enrollment at its medical school.

--- A $25 million proposal (Senate Form 1186) by Sen. Jay Collins, R-Tampa, to help Tampa General Hospital with the cost of a 160-unit housing development for health-care workers.

--- A $20 million proposal (Senate Form 1145) by Sen. Jim Boyd, R-Bradenton, for land acquisition and development at SeaPort Manatee.

Before the 2023 session, senators made 2,288 requests, totaling $5.63 billion, while House members made 2,333 requests that would have required $5.36 billion.

More than 1,500 legislator requests made it into a $117 billion budget that lawmakers sent to Gov. Ron DeSantis. The governor vetoed $510.9 million in spending, including 309 individual lawmaker projects that totaled $324.3 million.

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DECEMBER 1 - DECEMBER 7, 2023 | OCALA GAZETTE

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DECEMBER 1 - DECEMBER 7, 2023 | OCALA GAZETTE

People, Places & Things

A local artist blurs the lines between meditation and creation to produce art that promotes peace.

Photos by Bruce Ackerman Ocala Gazette

Aliye Cullu poses with her painting, “Peace & Love On Earth,” an oil on canvas, at Tuscawilla Park in Ocala on Thursday, Nov. 9, 2023.

Aliye Cullu works on a watercolor scene of Lake Tuscawilla titled “Tuscawilla Trio” at Tuscawilla Park in Ocala on Thursday, Nov. 9, 2023.

“Do what you love, whatever that is, and do what brings joy into your life. I think it’s really important to live in alignment with your life’s purpose, whatever that is.

We are all creative, I believe.”

Aliye Cullu

“View From St. Maarten” Acrylic

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E.D. CROSKEY RECREATION CENTER CLOSED UNTIL JANUARY FOR MAINTENANCE

DECEMBER 1 - DECEMBER 7, 2023 | OCALA GAZETTE

OEU RECEIVES STATE AWARD

By Caroline Brauchler caroline@ocalagazette.com

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cala Fire Rescue stations will now serve as collection sites for toys, food, baby items and toiletries to benefit local charities until Dec. 14.

By Caroline Brauchler caroline@ocalagazette.com

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he city of Ocala’s E.D. Croskey Recreation Center is now closed for roof maintenance.

The center, at 1510 NW Fourth St., is expected to reopen Jan. 5, 2024 for its regular hours of 12 p.m. until 8 p.m. on Monday through Saturday.

Until construction is finished, all youth and adult programs are being relocated to the Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place at 1821 NW 21st Ave.

For more information, contact the Ocala Recreation and Parks Department at (352) 368-5517.

OCALA FIRE RESCUE ACCEPTING DONATIONS FOR HOLIDAY DRIVES

Accepted items:

Left to Right: OEU Staff Members Jess Knight, Buck Lovell, Joyce Doss and Matt Brown [Supplied]

By Caroline Brauchler caroline@ocalagazette.com

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cala Electric Utility has been recognized with the “Building Strong Communities” award from the Florida Municipal Electric Association.

The award distinguishes OEU for making “valuable investments that enhance the quality of life in its community, beyond efficient delivery of affordable, reliable and clean energy,” according to a press release.

Last year alone, OEU reached 147,822 customers by assisting civic groups and participating in community events. It received the award at the Nov. 7 FMEA Energy Connections Conference and Trade Show.

“For 125 years, OEU has made it possible for residents of Ocala to own and control its energy future while receiving affordable, reliable and environmentally responsible power,” according to the press release.

• Canned items (meats, fruits, vegetables, soup) • Dry goods (pasta, rice, dried beans, cereal) • Other non-perishables (fruit cups, juice boxes, peanut butter, crackers) • Toiletries (soap, shampoo, deodorant, toothpaste, toothbrushes) • Baby items (baby food, diapers, wipes) • New, unwrapped toys in original packaging

Drop-off locations:

• Station #1 – 505 NW MLK Jr. Ave. • Station #2 – 2701 SE 36 Ave. • Station #3 – 320 NE Eighth Ave. • Station #4 – 3300 SW 20 St. • Station #5 – 2340 NE 25 Ave. • Station #6 – 5220 SW 50 Ct. • Station #7 – 885 SE 31 St

STUDENTS CAN SEND HOLIDAY LETTERS TO FLORIDA NATIONAL GUARD MEMBERS

By Caroline Brauchler caroline@ocalagazette.com

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tudents across the state can now send holiday letters to those deployed or on active duty for the Florida National Guard as part of a partnership between Lt. Gov. Jeanette Nuñez and the Florida Department of Education.

Each student can submit a handwritten letter and a drawing to show support and appreciation for those serving in active military.

Submissions will be accepted until Dec. 15.

Letters should be mailed to the following address: ATTN: Holiday Letters to Heroes 325 W Gaines St. Tallahassee, Fl. 32399 “Being away from one’s family is difficult, especially during the holidays. These men and women have courageously served our state, and we want to share our gratitude and appreciation for their service,” said Nuñez in a press release.

Middletons

Gasoline Alley

Animal Crackers

Broom Hilda

Finn’s Removal

Recycle, Reuse, Refurbish Clean out house’s, attics, garages & storage units. Also do deliveries & demo hot tubs.

Donations accepted

352-322-8154

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DECEMBER 1 - DECEMBER 7, 2023 | OCALA GAZETTE

Rally held to protect the Greenway

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he Greenway Guardians hosted their Stop Duke, Save the Greenway Rally on Nov. 25. Hikers, bikers, and trail riders showed up at the Landbridge and 49th Ave trailheads with signs.

The Greenway Guardians organized the rally to bring attention to Duke Energy’s request to install power lines through the Greenway.

To learn more about Duke’s proposed project, visit bit.ly/dukeenergy-rossprairie

Photos by Valerie Feagin

Through January 7

A Dickens Christmas The Urban Family’s Holiday Exhibition

Holiday Community Day Saturday, December 2 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

Enjoy free admission all day, photos with Santa (until 2:30 p.m.), holiday crafts in the Artspace, food trucks and more!

Visit AppletonMuseum.org for details.

Appleton Museum, Artspace and Store

Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday, noon-5 p.m.

4333 E. Silver Springs Blvd. | AppletonMuseum.org

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DECEMBER 1 - DECEMBER 7, 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

Brown thrasher [MichaelWarren.com]

By Michael Warren

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his fierce looking bird in the blackbird family is typically found thrashing about inside hedges and bushes where it can be hard to spot. This one was coaxed out of a hedge of backyard ligustrums to enjoy a bird bath. A year-round resident of Marion County, they are most easily seen in the spring when males take up high perches to belt out one of the more than a thousand songs in their repertoire including “covers” of other familiar bird songs. #45

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

HOSPICE OF MARION COUNTY

“A Higher Standard” HOSPICE of MARION

empath

means a facility that feels COUNTY like home, close to home.

No blaring televisions, no plastic chairs, no glass partition between you and the staff. Just a fireplace, a comfortable place to rest, and virtually no wait.

Patient-centered radiation oncology close to home

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PA R T N E R S I N Q UA L I T Y

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AMERICAN SOCIETY FOR R A D I AT I O N O N CO LO G Y

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empath

HOSPICE of MARION Across 1 Conspiring circle COUNTY empath

empath

I AT

HOSPICE OF MARION COUNTY

The Villages 352.259.2200 Ocala 352.732.0277 Timber Ridge 352.861.2400 Inverness 352.726.3400 Lecanto 352.527.0106 RBOI.com

HOSPICE OF MARION COUNTY empath

HOSPICE of MARION COUNTY

6 Singer/actress Thorne 11 Briefs brand 14 Kitchen magnet?

15 Snacker’s stack 16 Tool that only works in water 17 Tough 19 Iberian cheer 20 Second printing 21 Kerfuffle 23 Key above ~ 24 Osso __ 27 Party of the first part in the Bible?

28 Hot 31 “Becoming Madame __”: Anchee Min novel set in China 32 “Well, well, well!”

33 Homer’s well-meaning neighbor 34 Sore 39 Sweets 40 Street sign abbr.

41 Massive lexicon: Abbr.

42 Weak 47 Simple semiconductor 48 Space heater?

49 Three-time World Series of Poker champion Ungar 52 Hyperformal “Blame me” 54 Haberdashery clips 57 “New Rules” singer __ Lipa 58 Product used on four of this puzzle’s clues 61 Goof 62 Big name in the cosmetics aisle 63 Data visualization discovery, perhaps 64 “So?” 65 “Copy that” 66 Ish

Down

1 Inner circle

2 First sign of spring?

3 __ acid 4 Hawkeye State college town 5 Miss 6 Withstood hardship 7 Stretch often named for a music genre 8 Wreath of plumeria blossoms 9 Tolkien trilogy, briefly 10 Take on 11 Audible precursor 12 Pot-building poker wager 13 Decent, so to speak 18 __ top 22 Easy-to-store bed 25 Like the winner in a number-guessing contest 26 Island that hosts the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing 28 Sigma follower 29 Ad __ 30 Male swan 31 Leader of a slapstick trio 34 Saying little 35 Unblinking sci-fi villain 36 First name in couture 37 Java 38 Swimmer that hunts using electrolocation 39 “I wouldn’t do that” 43 Ore. neighbor 44 Tone down 45 “__ is the coward’s revenge for being intimidated”: Shaw 46 Great Lake near the Pro Football Hall of Fame 49 Screen __ 50 Reznor of Nine Inch Nails 51 Vitamin intake std.

53 __ facto 55 CPR pros 56 NYC division 59 Mel who hit 511 career home runs 60 Capital of Thailand?

ANSWERS TO PUZZLES ON PAGE B7

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DECEMBER 1 - DECEMBER 7, 2023 | OCALA GAZETTE

holidays DECEMBER 1

Symphony Under the Lights

Tuscawilla Art Park, 800 NE Sanchez Ave., Ocala 7:30pm The Ocala Symphony Orchestra continues its annual tradition of giving a free holiday concert in the park. Bring your chairs, picnic basket and hot chocolate for an evening under the stars. The concert will include performances by the Ocala Youth Symphony. See reillyartscenter.com for more information.

DECEMBER 1- 22

A Rockin’ Little Christmas

Orange Blossom Opry, 16439 SE 138th Terrace, Weirsdale Days and times vary, see website The OBO band plays all your Christmas favorites with this magical holiday show that features classic country and Southern rock holiday tunes.

Performances are Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays; check their calendar for details. Tickets are $24-$39 from obopry.com

DECEMBER 2

Holiday Celebration at OTOW Square

The Town Square OTOW, 8405 SW 80th St., Ocala 4pm-8pm This holiday celebration includes the I-4 Band, a photo booth, food trucks, a decorated golf cart parade, a 50/50 raffle and an appearance from Santa in his sleigh. This event is open to the public and is free to attend. For more information, see circlesquarecommons.com/entertainment

DECEMBER 2

Light Up Lake Lillian

Lake Lillian Park, SE Robinson Road, Belleview 2pm-7pm Enjoy the shores of Lake Lillian and check out vendor booths, arts and crafts, kids’ activities and a visit from Santa. Food options are available, so

LOCAL CALENDAR LISTINGS

bring your chairs and watch the lake light up in this annual holiday tradition. For more details, visit ocalamarion.com/events/light-up-lake-lillian

DECEMBER 2

Dunnellon Christmas Parade

Dunnellon Middle School, 21005 Chestnut St., Dunnellon 6pm The annual parade’s theme this year is “Boomtown Pioneer Christmas.” It starts at the middle school, then moves east and south to end on San Jose Boulevard. For more information, visit dunnellonchamber.com

DECEMBER 2

Legends of the Yule

Fort King National Historic Landmark, 3925 E Fort King St., Ocala 6pm-10pm The fort offers a new event with storytellers weaving their magic among lantern-lit paths.

Tickets must be purchased in advance for $10 from bit.ly/47XrUTV

DECEMBER 2-3

Festival at Fort King

Fort King National Historic Landmark, 3925 E Fort King St., Ocala 10am-3pm This event has a historic 1800s era theme that includes crafts, vendors, food trucks, and a fullscale re-enactment of the start of the Second Seminole War. It highlights local history and is family-friendly. Parking at the Duke Energy power line field (NE 44th Avenue) is free, and trams will run continuously to the site. Tickets are $5 per person; children under age 5 and veterans are free.

For more information, visit bit.ly/3Okaxo7

DECEMBER 2 & 3

Kingdom of the Sun Concert Band

Marion Technical Institute, 1614 SE Fort King St., Ocala Saturday 2pm; Sunday 3pm This year’s concert theme is “The Joy of Christmas”

community DECEMBER 1

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.

Yoga in the Park

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.

DECEMBER 2 & 9

DECEMBER 1

Ocala Downtown Farmers Market

Bring the Harvest Home

Downtown Square, 1 SE Broadway St., Ocala 7:30am-1pm Marion County’s holiday food drive helps area food pantries—Brother’s Keeper, Interfaith Emergency Services and the Salvation Army—stock their shelves. Dry goods, canned food, baby items and toiletries are welcomed. For more information, visit marionfl.org/bhh

DECEMBER 1-15

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.

DECEMBER 1-3 & 8-10

Market of Marion

DECEMBER 2 & 9

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.

DECEMBER 2 & 9

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, home-grown plants, produce and hand-crafted items. This event recurs on Saturdays, weather permitting.

DECEMBER 2

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.

Chestnut Cemetery Clean-up

698 NW 13th Terrace, Ocala 8am-12pm Volunteers can help out in doing some maintenance, raking leaves, cleaning headstones and clean-up at this historic cemetery. For more information, contact Tom Casey with the Ocala Public Works Department at (352) 351-6723.

and features holiday choir tunes, photo ops with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and, on Saturday, a preconcert performance from the Meadowbrook Academy Worship Choir. On Sunday, the show also has a brass quintet at 2 pm. The concert is free to the public; donations are welcomed.

and older includes lunch, prizes and games.

Tickets are $10 per person; visit bit.ly/47Thq7K for more information.

DECEMBER 2 & 3

Ocala Christmas Parade

Pops! Goes the Holidays

Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE 9th St., Ocala Saturday 7:30pm; Sunday 3pm For festive music, the Ocala Symphony Orchestra’s holiday concert is an Ocala tradition.

Holiday music and touching tributes make this a night to remember. Tickets are $15-$40; see reillyartscenter.com for more information.

DECEMBER 3

Belleview Christmas Parade

Lake Lillian Park, SE Robinson Road, Belleview 2pm-4pm The annual south Marion County Christmas tradition, this year’s parade route starts at Lake Lillian and Robinson Road and ends at 110th Street.

Enjoy vendor booths, floats, parade horses and more in this charming event. For more information, visit belleviewchristmasparade.com

DECEMBER 5, 12 & 14

Santa on the Square

Downtown Square, 1 SE Broadway St., Ocala 6pm-8pm A special visit from Santa, Mrs. Claus and some holiday elves will make this a photo fest for families. The square is lighted for the holidays, and there is free parking in the municipal garage two blocks to the east. For more information, see ocalafl.gov/government/city-departments-i-z/ recreation-parks/recreation/holidays

DECEMBER 7

Senior Holiday Luncheon

Ocala Golf Club, 3130 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala 11am-1pm This celebration of the season for folks age 50

DECEMBER 2

DECEMBER 9

SE Fort King/25th Avenue west on Silver Springs Blvd. to Tuscawilla Park, Ocala 5:30pm This year’s theme is “Hometown Christmas.” Adults and children will delight as dusk takes over and the Christmas lights dazzle on the floats in one of the nation’s largest and oldest nighttime parades. For more information, visit ocalachristmasparade.org

THROUGH DECEMBER 24

Winter Wonderland

World Equestrian Center Ocala, 1390 NW 80th Ave., Ocala 5pm-9pm An outdoor winter holiday celebration takes place Thursday through Sunday nights at the Grand Plaza. There will be photo ops at the 45-foot, walkthrough Christmas tree, holiday décor, carolers, balloon artists, face painting, live entertainment, and the chance to meet Santa. Parking is $30 and some experiences require purchase. See wecwinterwonderland.com for more information.

THROUGH DECEMBER 30

Christmas Light Spectacular

Florida Horse Park, 11008 South Highway 475, Ocala 6pm-10pm This annual drive-through Christmas light show takes place again at the Florida Horse Park. Ticket prices are $20-$25 per carload and include kids’ activities, live music, train ride, slides, inflatables and a visit with Santa. Food trucks will be onsite for the walk-around area. Ice skating will be available for the first time ever this year. The experience is closed on December 24 and 25. For more information, see ocalamarion.com/events/ocalachristmas-light-spectacular

DECEMBER 3

First Saturdays Market in the Park

NAACP Taste of Soul Marion

DECEMBER 2

Jeep Jamboree

Ernie Mills Park, 11899 Bostick St., Dunnellon 10am-2pm A variety of vendors set up their booths at Ernie Mills Park. Many Dunnellon stores also 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 lunch while enjoying the Rainbow River area. See dunnellonchamber.com for more information.

One Health Center, 1714 SW 17th St., Ocala 2pm-4pm The Marion County NAACP sponsors this festive afternoon of soulful food with music, camaraderie and connections. Sample tidbits of Marion County’s restaurants, food truck vendors, wine and more. Tickets start at $40 from bit.ly/47k0dEO

DECEMBER 9

Ocala Public Library Book Sale

Homestead Park, 1050 NE 6th Blvd., Williston 11am-4pm The park celebrates all things Jeep with a festival featuring food trucks, vendors, live music by Kash Erickson and “friendly competition.” For more information, visit homesteadparks.com

DECEMBER 2

Kiwanis Pancake Day

Headquarters Library, 2720 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala 10am-2pm The Friends of the Ocala Library hold a book sale just in time for holiday shopping. Paperbacks and children’s books sell for a quarter and hardcovers sell for .50 cents.

Bootleggers Jackpots N’ Jazz

Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place, 1821 NW 21st Ave., Ocala 5pm-9pm This year’s fundraiser party has a 1920s jazzy theme to benefit Stirrups ‘n Strides Therapeutic Riding Center. The evening offers a casino, dinner, specialty cocktails, dancing, a costume contest, silent auction and door prizes. The suggested donation is $100 per person. Tickets are available from bit.ly/47FifRG

DECEMBER 2

Giving Gala

Licciardello Farms, 1800 SE 160th St., Summerfield 6pm This annual gala raises money for the Landon Yerk Memorial Scholarship in memory of Landon Brice Yerk, specifically for a trade scholarship.

Licciardello Farms hosts the casual indoor/outdoor party with raffle tickets, live auctions, tapas, drinks and moreNo reservations are required, but RSVPs are encouraged. For more information, contact Madison Licciardello at (352) 653-7397.

DECEMBER 9

Eighth Street Elementary School, 513 SE Eighth Street, Ocala 7am-12pm This 60th annual event benefits the Kiwanis Club, which supports Marion County children and Camp Kiwanis. The breakfast includes sausage, pancakes and beverages. There will be raffles and organizers have invited a special guest from the North Pole. Tickets are $6 and can be purchased at bit.ly/3GjrN9m

THROUGH JANUARY 6

“Exciting Explorers” at the Discovery Center

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.

VISIT OUR EVENTS CALENDAR ONLINE OCALAGAZETTE.COM/EVENTS

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DECEMBER 1 - DECEMBER 7, 2023 | OCALA GAZETTE

critters & equine DECEMBER 1-3

prizes, all free to spectators with food and drink options onsite. For more information, see mjcloward.wixsite.com/pacwestbarrelracing

World Equestrian Center Ocala, Arena 3, 1390 NW 80th Ave., Ocala 8am-4pm All types of classes for this uniquely American breed. Parking fees may be required due to the WEC Winter Wonderland event. See worldequestriancenter.com for more information.

DECEMBER 1-3 & 6-10

Florida Paint Horse Holiday Classic Show

DECEMBER 1-2

Florida Quarter Horse Association Show

Florida Horse Park, 11008 S Highway 475, Ocala All day These show features the versatility of American Quarter Horses with Western and English classes for varied skill levels. The park has food options onsite. For more information, visit flhorsepark.com

DECEMBER 1-3

PAC West Barrel Race

Southeastern Livestock Pavilion, 2232 NE Jacksonville Road, Ocala All day Explosive starts, quick turns and all-out gallops are all on display when horses and riders run the barrels. There are multiple races with great

HITS Ocala Winter Circuit Horse Shows

HITS Post-Time Farm, 13710 US Highways 27, Ocala 8am-6pm This week opens the winter series that goes through January with weekly hunter-jumper shows culminating in the show jumping Grand Prix on Sundays with grand prizes. Classes include youth riders, re-trained thoroughbreds, adult amateur riders and more. See hitsshows.com/ocala for more info.

DECEMBER 3

Winter Polo Games

Florida Horse Park, 11008 South Highway 475, Ocala 1pm The Ocala Polo Club revs up the horsepower for their winter season with Sunday afternoon matches through March. Free to the public, you can tailgate right next to the polo field and enjoy a unique afternoon out. With food trucks, vendor booths and more, many matches have a charity component. For more information, visit ocalapolo.com

DECEMBER 6

DECEMBER 2

Wildlife Wednesdays

Mega Animal Adoption Event

Ocala Dog Ranch, 440 SW 110th Ave., Ocala 11am-2pm This inaugural event will feature lots of animals needing forever homes from Marion County Animal Services, the Humane Society of Marion County, Open Hands Animal Rescue, Melissa Bell’s Rescue, Quality of Life Rescue and Sheltering Hands. The day includes a dog dock diving demonstration. For more information, visit openhandsanimalrescue.org

Ocala Recharge Wetlands Park, 2105 NW 21st St., 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

government DECEMBER 4 & 11

Marion County Development Review Committee

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

See marionfl.legistar.com/calendar.aspx for agendas and minutes.

DECEMBER 4

Dunnellon City Council Workshop

DECEMBER 5

DECEMBER 6

Ocala City Council

Marion County Land Development Regulation Commission

DECEMBER 5

DECEMBER 7

City Hall, 110 SE Watula Avenue, Ocala 4pm The council meets the first and third Tuesday of the month.

Ocala government agendas and minutes are available at ocala.legistar.com/calendar.aspx

Marion County Board of County Commissioners Meeting

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

McPherson Governmental Campus Auditorium, 601 SE 25th Ave., Ocala 9am & 2pm The commission meets the first and third Tuesday of the month.

The zoning portion starts at 2pm. Agendas, minutes and video are available at marionfl.legistar.com/calendar.aspx

DECEMBER 5

DECEMBER 5

Belleview City Commission

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

civic DECEMBER 1 & 8

South Ocala Chess Club at Freedom Library

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.

DECEMBER 1 & 8

DECEMBER 2 & 9

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

City of Ocala Building Community Roundtable

Ocala Golf Club, 3130 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala 7:30am-9am The city’s Growth Management Department is hosting a builders’ community roundtable and workshop. Attendees are encouraged to bring new and unwrapped toys for the Toys for Tots program. For more information, contact Growth Management at (352 )629-8287 or email gmd@ocalafl.gov

Marion County Public Hearing on Taxes

McPherson Governmental Campus Auditorium, 601 SE 25th Ave., Ocala 10am The BOCC will hold public hearings on upcoming ad valorem taxes and the renewal of the penny sales tax. Agendas, minutes and video are available at marionfl.legistar.com/calendar.aspx

DECEMBER 2 & 9

DECEMBER 3

Ocala Camellia Society

Toastmasters Early Bird Ocala

Marion County Literacy Council, 120 SW 5th St., Ocala 8am 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.

Kiwanis Club of Ocala

Elks Club, 702 NE 25th Ave., 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.

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

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.

The club is free to attend and newcomers are welcome. For more information, visit facebook.com/people/Ocala-Camellia-Society/100064745886741

DECEMBER 6

General Francis Marion Stamp Club meeting

DECEMBER 2

Blooming Violets of Marion County

Marion County Sheriff’s Southwest District Office, 9048 SW State Road 200 Ocala, FL 34481 10:30am-12:30pm 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.

Marion County Sheriff’s Southwest District Office, 9048 SW State Road 200, Ocala 1pm The club meets the first and third Wednesday of each month; newcomers are welcome.

DECEMBER 7

Ocala Lions Club

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

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

Prince

If you like cuddly cats, three-year-old Prince wants to meet you! His soft fur, loving eyes, and the sound of his loud purr is the perfect combination for a true cat lover.

Mimi

How much do you love Mimi’s expressive face? This one-year-old girl would be delighted to greet you each day when you return home. She has a naturally curious mind- perfect for anyone who likes to talk to their pet!

For information about Bring the Harvest Home visit: MarionFL.org/BHH Visit MarionFL.org/Animal

Job

Once a neglected and severely underweight dog, Job has gained over 20lbs since being in the care of Marion County Animal Services. This six-yearold is feeling so much better and now needs someone to give him the love and devotion that he deserves.

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DECEMBER 1 - DECEMBER 7, 2023 | OCALA GAZETTE

arts DECEMBER 1

Newy Fagan: A Retrospective Art Exhibit

Brick City Center for the Arts, 23 SW Broadway St., Ocala 6pm-7:30pm Artist Newy Fagan opens her equine-focused retrospective exhibit with a reception. She has used media including wood cut prints, clay sculpture and kilnformed glass art. The exhibit runs through Dec. 28. For more information and to RSVP, visit mcaocala.org/exhibits

DECEMBER 1

include The Donut Express and Sweet Baby Cheeses. Learn more at appletonuseum.org

DECEMBER 2

”There’s No Business Like Snow Business” Kids Musical Revue

Appleton Museum of Art, 4333 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala 12:30pm A cast of students puts on this holiday musical with comedy, music, dancing and the Merry Misfits. This free production is part of the Free First Saturday series, and you can also donate for the Community Stages programs at bit.ly/3MNYaAB

First Friday Art Walk

Ocala Downtown Square, 1 SE Broadway St., Ocala 6pm-9pm The Art Walk season continues, featuring artists, performers and craftspeople. This month, the square’s main stage hosts performers along with street buskers. Food and drink will be available from vendors and restaurants. It’s free to attend and there is free parking at the municipal garage on Fort King Street. For more information, visit ocalafl.gov

DECEMBER 1

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

DECEMBER 2

Holiday Community Day

Appleton Museum of Art, 4333 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala 10am-5pm Continuing its Free First Saturday series, this month, visitors can enjoy “A Dickens Christmas: The Urban Family’s Holiday Exhibition” and other holiday displays. The day includes face painting by Tonya from 10am-12pm; photos with Santa from 10:30 am-2:30 pm; and a holiday performance by Community Stages (details below.) Food trucks onsite throughout the day

&

DECEMBER 7 & 14

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.

DECEMBER 10

“Jimi Meets Funk”

Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE 9th Ave., Ocala 4pm The music of Jimi Hendrix and the Allman Brothers Band is celebrated with this tribute show from Roosevelt Collier and Steeln’ Peaches.

Tickets are $20-55. For more information, visit reillyartscenter.com

THROUGH DECEMBER 31

Beginning of Bolted Art Tickets

ocalafl.gov/boba Tickets for the upcoming Beginning of Bolted Art (BOBA) Brunch are on sale. The event will be held Feb. 24 and includes the sculpture stroll through Tuscawilla Art Park, live music from members of the Ocala Symphony Orchestra and an artist panel.

Tickets are $35 per person. For more information, visit ocalafl.gov/boba

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 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.

THROUGH JANUARY 8

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

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.

“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.

music nightlife nig ghtlife DECEMBER 1

DECEMBER 2

DECEMBER 6

DECEMBER 8

Nate Mercado

Austin James

Becky Baby

The Big Bad Duo

NOVEMBER 25

DECEMBER 2

DECEMBER 7

DECEMBER 8

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

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

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

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

Becky Baby

Track Side

Chris Ryals

KennaDee

NOVEMBER 30

DECEMBER 2

DECEMBER 7

DECEMBER 9

Downtown Square 1 SE Broadway St., Ocala 6pm

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

Charlie Horse 2426 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala 6pm

Flying Boat Tap Room 9672 SE 58th Ave., Belleview 6pm

Stephen Lopez

Charity Cox

Ugly Sweater Contest with Mark Z

Jack Knife

DECEMBER 1

DECEMBER 6

DECEMBER 8

DECEMBER 9

Downtown Square 1 SE Broadway St., Ocala 6pm

One Flight Up

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

Downtown Square 1 SE Broadway St., Ocala 6pm

Blues Jam

Charlie Horse 2426 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala 6pm

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

Rattling Roots

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

Ecliff Farrar

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

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

ANSWERS FOR PAGE B4 Sudoku

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B8

DECEMBER 1 - DECEMBER 7, 2023 | OCALA GAZETTE

A walk through Rome’s living culture

Public Notice IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA. IN RE: THE ESTATE OF TIMOTHY R. MICHEL, Deceased.

CASE NO: 2023-CP-2710 NOTICE TO CREDITORS The name of the decedent, the designation of the court in which the administration of this estate is pending, and the file number are indicated above. The address of the court is 110 N.W. 1st Avenue, Ocala, FL 34475. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are indicated below.

If you have been served with a copy of this notice and you have any claim or demand against the decedent’s estate, even if that claim is unmatured, contingent or unliquidated, you must file your claim with the court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF A DATE THAT IS 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER YOU RECEIVE A COPY OF THIS NOTICE. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons who have claims or demands against the decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, must file their claims with the court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT SO FILED WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. EVEN IF A CLAIM IS NOT BARRED BY THE LIMITATIONS DESCRIBED ABOVE, ALL CLAIMS WHICH HAVE NOT BEEN FILED WILL BE BARRED TWO YEARS AFTER DECEDENT’S DEATH. The date of death of the decedent is: November 1, 2023.

The date of first publication of this Notice is December 1, 2023.

Attorney for Personal Representative: JOSHUA L. MOSES Richard & Moses, LLC Florida Bar No. 119304 808 E Fort King Street Ocala, FL 34471 (352) 369-1300 Primary Email: Josh@RMProbate.com Personal Representative: CINDY L. MICHEL 7716 SW 117th Street Road Ocala, FL 34476

Daniel P. Featherston** Brent C. Featherston* Jeremy P. Featherston

FEATHERSTON LAW FIRM, CHTD., JEREMY P. FEATHERSTON, ISB. 6098 Attorneys at Law 113 South Second Avenue Sandpoint, ID 83864 (208) 263-6866 (208) 263-0400 (Fax) attorneys@featherstonlaw.com Attorney for Petitioners IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF THE FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT OF THE STATE OF IDAHO, IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF BONNER MAGISTRATE DIVISION In the Matter of the Adoption of

) ) WILLIAM COLTON CAMP, ) dob 02-02-2016 ) ) A Minor Child. ) ) and Termination of Parental Rights of ) CLINT CAMP JR., ) ) Respondent. ) ____________________________________)

Persons wishing to address the Board should register with the Chairman prior to 5:40 p.m.

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 made, which record includes the testimony and evidence on which the appeal is to be based.

NOTICE UNDER FICTITIOUS NAME LAW PURSUANT TO SECTION 865.09, FLORIDA STATUTES NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Joseph Parken / GRIZZLY SEALCOATING LLC will engage in business under the fictitious name APPELL STRIPING AND SEALCOATING, with a physical address 6 Hemlock circle Trce Ocala, FL 34472, with a mailing address 6 Hemlock circle Trce Ocala, FL 34472, and already registered the name mentioned above with the Florida Department of State, Division of Corporations.

NOTICE UNDER FICTITIOUS NAME LAW PURSUANT TO SECTION 865.09, FLORIDA STATUTES NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Dash Winningham will engage in business under the fictitious name DASHS DUGOUT, with a physical address 802 SW 20th St Ocala, Fl 34471, with a mailing address 1021 ne 41st ave Ocala, Fl 34470, and already registered the name mentioned above with the Florida Department of State, Division of Corporations.

Public sale for unpaid towing & storage charges only per FS 713.78 @ 9:00 am Kalli Service Center Inc 18801 N US Hwy 301 Citra 2016 Kia Sorento Ut Gry 5XYPG4A36GG172581 1999 Chev Express 3500 Vn Whi 1GAHG39R5X1122500 Sale On 12/11/2023

SUMMONS FOR PUBLICATION and NOTICE OF HEARING

NOTICE: YOU HAVE BEEN SUED BY THE PETITIONERS. THE COURT MAY ENTER JUDGMENT AGAINST YOU WITHOUT FURTHER NOTICE UNLESS YOU RESPOND WITHIN 21 DAYS. READ THE INFORMATION BELOW: TO:

CLINT CAMP JR

YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that in order to defend this lawsuit, an appropriate written response must be filed with the above-designated court within 21 days after service of this Summons on you. If you fail to so respond, the court may enter judgment against you as demanded by the Petitioners in the Petition.

If you wish to seek the advice or representation of an attorney in this matter, you should do so promptly so that your written response, if any, may be filed in time and other legal rights protected.

The nature of this legal action is for termination of your parental rights.

113 S. Second Ave. Sandpoint, ID 83864 NOTICE OF SCHOOL MEETING PhoneBOARD (208) 263-6866 Fax (208) 263-0400 *Licensed Washington Notice is hereby givenin Idaho that &the School ** of Counsel Board of Marion County, Florida, will meet on December 12, 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 from a link on the District’s website: www. marion.k12.fl.us.

Case No. CV09-23-701

SUMMONS BY PUBLICATION & NOTICE OF HEARING- 1

An early-evening walk in Rome offers culture that you can’t find in museums. [Rick Steves]

By Rick Steves

T

hroughout Italy, early evening is time to stroll.

As I walk through the streets of the Eternal City with my Roman friends, they explain the ritual of this promenade: While elsewhere in Italy it’s called the passeggiata, in Rome it’s a cruder, big-city version called the struscio (which means “rub”).

Unemployment among Italy’s youth is very high; many live with their parents even into their 30s.

They spend a lot of time being trendy and hanging out. Hard-core cruisers from the Roman suburbs, which lack pleasant public spaces, congregate on the downtown boulevard Via del Corso. The Vespa motor scooter is their symbol; haircuts and fashion are follow-the-leader.

In a more genteel small town, the passeggiata comes with sweet whispers of “bella” and “bello” (“pretty” and “handsome”) as the boys and girls eye each other. But in Rome, the admiration is more strongly oriented toward consumption – they say “buona” and “buono,” meaning “tasty” (terms used to describe food). Police barricades keep out the traffic as, from Piazza del Popolo down Via del Corso and up Via Condotti to the Spanish Steps, shoppers, people-watchers, chunky middle-aged Italians, and young flirts on the prowl make the scene.

In their travels, tourists are often content to “experience” the art and culture of a great city such as Rome in museums and on stage. But I strive to be engulfed in the living culture, to enjoy it “in situ” – the art-history term for “on location.” You can be a spectator, sipping a drink at a sidewalk table, but it’s more fun to stroll along with everyone else. It’s the perfect way to start a night in Rome.

The next day, I’m immersed in an entirely different scene – jammed into St. Peter’s Basilica with thousands of worshippers for Mass. As the pope circulates, the peacocks of the security world – the Vatican’s fancy-garbed Swiss Guard, with their flamboyant helmets and medieval pikes shining under heavenly sunrays – are on high alert. Their darting eyes and walkie-talkie earpieces show they’re there for more than ritual and decoration.

Afterward, the crowd pours like sand out of a spiritual hourglass from the basilica into St. Peter’s Square. There, I join an even larger crowd that just “attended” the Mass on huge rock-concert-type video screens. It’s a Catholic tailgate party, as groups from around the world – mustachioed Sicilians bellowing “Viva il papa!” to their pope, cowboyhatted Calabrians forcing wine on strangers, and noisy Mexican teenagers screaming “Viva May-heeko!” – wait for their spiritual leader to appear from the window of his study overlooking the square.

Suddenly, the famous window opens, the red banner flops down, and the pope appears.

After he finishes his short greeting, the crowd dissipates – melting back into Rome. Going with the human flow, I cross the Ponte Sant’Angelo, a bridge as old as the papacy. Pausing midstream, I remember that 200 worshippers drowned during a similar papal event in the year 1450, as the crowd surged over this bridge, knocking pilgrims into the Tiber River. I’m thankful they renovated the venerable bridge with a tall and sturdy stone railing.

I wander over to the always-thriving Piazza Navona, with its gushing Bernini fountains and famous gelateria. As usual, it’s busy with families out for a stroll, street musicians, artists, fire-eaters, local Casanovas, immigrants selling the latest plastic tourist trinkets, and people screwing their forefinger into their cheeks. That’s the Italian sign for “yummy”...like when you’re eating the tartufo chocolate ice cream treat that several of the square’s cafés claim to have perfected. Piazza Navona’s outdoor cafés are a worthy splurge if you’ve got time to sit and enjoy Italy’s human river.

Around the corner, a well-worn old statue sits covered with feedback from this Roman neighborhood. This graffiti tradition goes back centuries, to times when people couldn’t speak their minds but could write (anonymously) what was in their hearts.

Under a sloppy Italian flag, messages scrawled around the statue proclaim that all politicians are unhinged. Below that, someone else gripes that Rome’s many pedestrian streets are causing traffic jams everywhere.

A few blocks away, the ancient Pantheon, once a Roman temple, is filled with folding chairs, people, and music – now in action as a modern-day church.

Across the street, I drink coffee – a Roman art form in itself – and review a tourist-office flier with the local concert schedule. The Doria Pamphilj Villa, once home to an 18th-century art-loving duke, is hosting a chandelier-lit string quartet amid paintings by Raphael, Caravaggio, and Velázquez. I think I’ll go...and enjoy more European life in situ.

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

B9

DECEMBER 1 - DECEMBER 7, 2023 | OCALA GAZETTE

Sports High School Football Coverage is Sponsored By

Vanguard vanquishes Lake SCOREBOARD SELECTED MARION COUNTY Wales in regional finals HIGH SCHOOL Gaskin’s 4 touchdown passes lead Knights past Highlanders.

& COLLEGE

SPORTS RESULTS NOV. 24

Results were compiled by Allen Barney

Vanguard’s Jermaine White (20) dives into the end zone for a touchdown ahead of Lake Wales’ Gary Love (8) during a football game at Booster Stadium in Ocala on Friday, Nov. 24, 2023. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2023.

By Mark Pinson Special to the Ocala Gazette

V

anguard senior quarterback Fred Gaskin tossed four touchdown passes, and the Knights’ defense returned two fumbles for scores in a 52-15 drubbing of Lake Wales in the Class 3S regional finals Nov. 24 at Booster Stadium.

The impressive win over Lake Wales High School, the defending Class 3S state champions who brought a perfect 12-0 record to the contest, was Vanguard’s fifth in a row and improved the Knights to 11-2 on the season. This was just the second time in school history that Vanguard High School won in the regional finals. The only other time it occurred was in 1994.

“It’s a great feeling to get the win tonight,” said Knights veteran coach Edwin Farmer. “It’s one of those things that we’ve been working on for a long period of time. We’ve been to this third round of the playoffs multiple times and we’re finally out of it and on to the next round.”

To eliminate Lake Wales, which beat Vanguard last year in the regional finals, made the dominating win over the Highlanders even sweeter.

“This was definitely some payback,” Farmer said. “We had a bad game last year and they took advantage of it and beat us. But this year, we’re the regional champions.

We made plays on offense, defense and special teams ,and that’s what it takes to win big games like this.”

Vanguard, the No. 3 seed, moves on to play at Daytona Beach Mainland, the No. 2 seed, in the state semifinals on Dec. 1.

Lake Wales forced a Vanguard punt on the opening possession and a high snap sailed over the head of the punter and was recovered by the Highlanders on the Knights 28-yard line.

Lake Wales took advantage of the excellent field position and scored on a 9-yard touchdown run

by RaShad Orr to take a 7-0 lead.

Vanguard went nowhere on offense and punted the ball, but Lake Wales fumbled the kick and Vanguard’s Markell Davis pounced on the ball on the Highlanders’ 34.

Gaskin hit Jermaine White for a 29-yard completion and running

back Mitch Brown powered his way a commanding 40-7 lead at the half. into the end zone from 5 yards out.

Vanguard made sure there The extra point by Jaxson Lee tied was no comeback by Lake Wales the score at 7-7. as Gaskin tossed his fourth Lake Wales completed a pass touchdown pass of the night, a Vanguard’s Tay’juan Leslie-Farmer (2) eludes a host of Lake Wales defenders as he carries the ball for a large gain during a football game at Booster Stadium in Ocala on its next possession, but the 32-yard strike to Leslie, to give the on Friday, Nov. 24, 2023. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2023. receiver was stripped of the ball Knights a 46-7 lead with 7:23 left in and Vanguard’s Anthony Reason the third period. Gaskin completed scooped it up and raced 41 yards 12 of 17 passes for 203 yards with for a touchdown. The point after no interceptions.

November 24 gave the Knights a 14-7 lead “This means a lot,” said Gaskin.

Class 1-Suburban Region 1 Final midway through the first quarter.

“It’s something that no one can Trinity Catholic 38 A swarming Vanguard defense take from me. This game was Melbourne Central Catholic 14 forced a Lake Wales punt, and a very personal for me and a bunch nice return gave the Knights the of guys who played in last year’s Class 3-Suburban Region 2 Final ball at midfield. Brown ripped off a game. After watching film, we were Lake Wales 15 35-yard run and Gaskin connected confident we were going to win Vanguard 52 with Tayjuan Leslie on a 15-yard this game.” scoring strike. The extra point was A running clock was used for the no good and the Knights led 20-7 rest of the game. with 9:35 left in the second quarter.

Lake Wales scored on a 12-yard A turning point in the game pass from quarterback Brycen occurred when another poor Levidiotis to wide receiver Gabriel snap on a punt gave Lake Wales Legrand late in the third quarter. the ball on the Vanguard 17.

Vanguard tallied its final score The Knights defense rose up on a 3-yard plunge by White. and ended the threat with an The Knights returned to the interception in the end zone by practice field on Monday to get Zamaryon McCray-Farmer. ready for the state semifinal at Vanguard’s Johntavous Davenport Gaskin marched the Knights 80 Daytona Beach Mainland.

(9) breaks up a pass in the end zone yards in nine plays and capped the “We’re going to enjoy this win intended for Lake Wales’ Gabriel Legrand (10) during a football game at Booster drive with a 29-yard touchdown for a couple of days and then start Stadium in Ocala on Friday, Nov. 24, 2023. pass to White to give the Knights a preparing for our next game,” [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2023.

26-7 lead with under two minutes Farmer said. “We’re going to keep to play in the first half. working and keep grinding because A short Lake Wales punt we’re not done.” gave Vanguard the ball at the Highlanders 34. Gaskin found Photos by Bruce Ackerman Ocala Gazette Dallen Ponder open in the end zone for a 34-yard scoring pass.

The extra point was no good and the Knights led 32-7 with 15 seconds left in the second quarter.

Lake Wales attempted a pass on first down, but it was ruled a backward lateral and Johntavous Davenport picked it up and raced down the sideline for a score to give Vanguard’s Zamaryion Farmer-McCray (4) intercepts a pass intended for Lake Wales’ D’cari Smith (1) the Knights in the end zone as Vanguard’s Johntavous Davenport (9) defends.

FOOTBALL SCORES

B10

DECEMBER 1 - DECEMBER 7, 2023 | OCALA GAZETTE