the legacy of Mount Moriah Church as parking garage project is green lit
Demolition and design/construction for downtown parking garage approved
By Caroline Brauchler caroline@ocalagazette.com
The Ocala City Council has approved the demolition of the Mount Moriah Missionary Baptist Church in preparation
for the new downtown parking garage while also promising to plan an appropriate monument to acknowledge the church’s history and prominence at the site.
On Tuesday, the city awarded a $17.5 million bid to SSC
Construction Management LLC to design and build the garage at 55 SW Third Ave. The garage is proposed to be up to seven floors, with each floor designed to hold at least 800 vehicles. The top level
Holiday hilarity
Two actors bring 20 characters to life on stage in Ocala Civic Theatre’s ‘A Tuna Christmas.’
By Jamie Berube Special to the Gazette
FSouthwest Marion high school project is $29 million over budget
Increase partially credited to delays caused by debate over choosing a contractor
By Caroline Brauchler caroline@ocalagazette.com
Recent estimates show that the new southwest Marion County high school project is more than $29 million over budget, caused in part by delay caused the school board’s debate over choosing a contractor during the botched procurement process.
The total anticipated costs for High School “CCC” have racked up to $164,777,011, $153,930,244 of which consists of construction costs, said Ivonne Bumbach, interim director of facilities for Marion County Public Schools.
our years ago, John Allsopp landed back in Ocala after he built a 30year career as a working actor in Los Angeles, where he performed in more than 20 national commercials and many films and television shows. His claims to theatrical fame include acting in “CSI,” “General Hospital,” “All My Children,” “Lizzie McGuire” and “Murder, She Wrote.” An Ocala native, Allsopp is glad to be back.
“I loved LA, but the pace here is so much less stress-inducing and, quite frankly, there’s just as much fun stuff to do here, such incredible community, and it’s a heck of a lot easier to do it,” Allsopp said.
With a toolbox of talent that has come with time, Allsopp will grace the Ocala Civic Theatre stage this month as he makes his OCT debut starring in “A Tuna Christmas.” Allsopp is thrilled to get his stage feet wet again with this play and is both grateful and petrified, according to officials with OCT.
Browning ‘poised’ to join Congress but would step aside to aid Trump’s interests
Trump-endorsed Randy Fine enters race
By Caroline Brauchler caroline@ocalagazette.com
Aformer Marion County School Board
member has declared his candidacy for the District 6 U.S. House of Representatives vacancy left by
Michael Waltz, who is expected to join President-elect Donald Trump’s Cabinet as National Security Adviser.
Donald Browning, of Weirsdale, has sent the Florida Division of Elections a letter of intent to run in the special election. Soon after, Trump issued an endorsement for Republican State Sen. Randy Fine, District 19, who filed to run on Dec. 3.
Browning, an 82-year-old Republican, said he intends to continue running but will honor Trump’s wishes in the best interest of the Republican Party.
“I am following Trump’s direction, which is a clear runway, right straight to Congress. We want to light that thing up and hold the majority,”
The available funds for the project are $135,585,439, leaving the district over $29 million short after changes to the school’s design, delays in starting construction, and cost escalations.
“I anticipate that we still need $91 million to finish the project as it is designed today. That means we are right now $29 million short,” Bumbach told the Marion County School Board at its Nov. 21 work session.
No increase will be seen for the contract with Wharton-Smith Inc. construction, which was negotiated for $130,000,000 with a fee of $5.2 million.
“How did we get to this increase? That original budget was based on a smaller school. We were probably anticipating 275,000 square feet for that high school,” Bumbach said. “Right now, the school is designed for 310,000 square feet. So, we increased the square footage of the school by 35,000 square feet.”
Adding square footage to the school cost a price increase of $14 million.
In addition to adding square footage to the school, cost increases
See Church, page A9
See Holiday, page A7
See Browning, page A9
See Project, page A1
The cast, crew, and creative team of “A Tuna Christmas” at Ocala Civic Theatre, with actors Scott Fitzgerald and John Allsopp in center. [Photos by Dave Schlenker, courtesy OCT]
Design rendering of the new downtown parking garage [SSC Construction Management LLC]
Don Browning of District 2 speaks during a meeting of the Marion County Public School Board at the MTI auditorium in Ocala, Fla. on Tuesday, April 26, 2022. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2022.
New Ocala City Council president and pro-tem elected
By Caroline Brauchler caroline@ocalagazette.com
The Ocala City Council unanimously elected a new council president and president pro-tem on Tuesday, who will serve in the roles for the next year.
Kristen Dreyer was elected city council president, with Ire Bethea elected to serve as president pro-tem.
Dryer takes over for former president Barry Mansfield, who served in the role for the 2023-24 term. While Mansfield was president, Dryer served as his pro-tem.
The president of the city council’s duties are to sign all ordinances,
contracts, agreements and paperwork; preside over meetings; and fill the role of mayor in the case of his absence, disqualification or disability.
Upon her election, Dryer thanked Mansfield for his leadership over his term as president.
“We had a challenging year with all the proPalestinian protests within these four walls this past year, and you handled it well,” Dryer told
School project
Continued from page A1
are being attributed to the need to relocate gopher tortoises—a protected species in Florida--that live on the property, the accelerated timeline for opening, the construction of a shelter and projected regional and national material cost escalation.
The delay in choosing contractor for the high school caused a cost escalation of about $5 million. The accelerated timeline for opening the school, considering subcontractor overtime, costs about $9.3 million.
The construction of a shelter at the school is estimated to cost about $2 million.
“We also had a little bit delay of the construction manager selection, around five months,” Bumbach said.
“We couldn’t start breaking ground, that delayed it another month. If we look at that, that’s probably almost $5 million because of the cost escalation. I did that percentage based on that cost escalation fee of 7.5% for six months.”
A cost increase is usually expected every January, and construction firms already are sending out letters to contractors that they are anticipating pricing to go up, Bumbach said.
In April, a district
selection committee chose Wharton–Smith Inc. as the winning bidder for the project. In the days and weeks following, a competing firm--Ausley Construction--and School Board member Sarah James were accused of tampering with the procurement process by violating the “cone of silence” policy. They also were accused of issuing threats to school district staff, another board member, and Superintendent Diane Gullett. An external investigation by the GrayRobinson law firm substantiated the allegations. The contract was eventually awarded to Wharton-Smith in July.
So, rather than breaking ground in July as originally anticipated, the groundbreaking will be held on Dec. 16.
“The outcome has been a fiscal disaster, something that the school board should be ashamed of themselves,” said School Board Chair Nancy Thrower.
The investigation over the procurement process revealed that threats were made by Ausley Construction, including toward Thrower’s husband, and also insinuating that the school district’s halfpenny sales tax referendum
on the November ballot would be jeopardized if Ausley was not awarded the bid.
“It is just unconscionable that not only did that occur, but then it extended to, I think, every school board member sitting up here feeling under tremendous pressure, that half-penny sales tax could have been jeopardized, and the direct threats that were made,” Thrower said.
Voters approved the school district’s half-cent sales tax measure during the general election last month, in addition to approving an extension of the county’s penny sales tax to fund infrastructure and public safety.
The school half-cent sales tax has been a revenue generator for the district in the past, from January 2005 through December 2009. Levying the tax generated over $111 million in revenue and helped to fund the construction of four schools: Horizon Academy at Marion Oaks, Legacy Elementary School, Liberty Middle School and Marion Oaks Elementary School, according to MCPS.
The school district has a $330 million certificate of participation loan to pay for two new elementary schools, the new high school, the new Lake Weir
Mansfield.
Dreyer was first elected after winning the 2021 special election for District 4. Dreyer is currently serving her second term on the city council after running unopposed in the 2023 election.
Bethea takes over Dryer’s former role as president pro-tem.
The president protem’s duties are to fill the responsibilities of president in the absence, disqualification or disability of the president.
Bethea has served on the city council since he was first elected in 2020. In 2023, Bethea beat opponent Reginald Landers to be reelected and retain his District 2 seat.
“The press was to serve the governed, not the governors.”
- U.S. Supreme Court Justice Hugo Black in New York Times Co. v. United States (1971)
Publisher Jennifer Hunt Murty jennifer@ocalagazette.com
Bruce Ackerman Photography Editor bruce@ocalagazette.com
Middle School, a wind at Liberty Middle School. a wing at Hammett Bowen Elementary, wing at Marion Oaks Elementary, a wing at Horizon Academy. And the replacement of the Osceola gym. The debt service will be paid by the capital outlay budget, which is now being supplemented by school impact fees and the halfcent sales tax.
The new high school is anticipated to open in August 2026 with a capacity of 2,011 students but could eventually house 2,711 students once the third floor is completed.
It was suggested to cut costs by building the third floor, but not finishing it out. This option would accommodate growth by adding classrooms later, Bumbach said.
The school will house 61 classrooms, 20 labs, three building complexes, enhanced security features and minimal entry points, an administrative building, first floor office areas, a second-story media center, a full service cafeteria, art and music suites , a performing arts auditorium, 867 parking spaces, a gymnasium, an athletic stadium for football and track and field; and playing fields for baseball, basketball, beach volleyball, soccer, softball, and tennis.
Chris D’Avonzo Marketing Specialist chris@magnoliamediaco.com
Dani Eskridge Director of Operations & Sales dani@magnoliamediaco.com
Andy Fillmore Reporter andy@ocalagazette.com
Greg Hamilton Editor greg@magnoliamediaco.com
Susan Smiley-Height Editor susan@magnoliamediaco.com
Belea Keeney Reporter belea@magnoliamediaco.com
Jane Lyons Account Executive jane@magnoliamediaco.com
Cheryl Specht Client Services Guru cheryl@magnoliamediaco.com
News tips tips@ocalagazette.com
Distribution Inquiries info@ocalagazette.com
Follow us @ocalagazette
Our mission is to inform and uplift our readers by reporting on the events, issues and stories that shape Ocala with accuracy, fairness and passion. We also strive to serve as a forum where all voices can be heard and to chronicle our community’s history.
Ocala Gazette (USPS# 25590) (ISSN 27711595) is published weekly by Magnolia Media Company, LLC, PO BOX 188, OCALA, FL 34478. Periodicals postage paid at Ocala, FL. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Ocala Gazette, PO Box 188, Ocala, FL 34478.
Share your news
The Ocala Gazette invites you to share your important news events with the community. Email your submissions to info@ocalagazette.com. Please include your name and contact information on the submission.
• Letters to the editor: 200 words or less.
• Honorable Mentions: 150 words or less about an individual or organization accomplishment in the business, education, community service, athletics or other area of endeavor. Attach a photo of the individual or group being honored, if available.
Upcoming events: Are you holding a charitable or community event that is open to the public? Include the organization hosting the event as well as the time, date and a brief description of the event, along with registration information or other important instructions.
News tips: Include whatever information you consider relevant.
Ocala City Council Member Ire Bethea is sworn in by Rev. John Brown during the Ocala City Council meeting at Ocala City Hall in Ocala, Fla. on Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2023. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2023.
Union group supports fi rst responders and communications workers
The PFFMC group provided turkeys to fire stations and public safety offices ahead of Thanksgiving Day.
By Susan Smiley-Height susan@magnoliamediaco. com
On Nov. 27, the Professional Firefighters of Marion County group continued its tradition of providing turkeys for crews working on Thanksgiving Day. The PFFMC is a labor union organization representing 575 active and retired first responders working for or retired from Marion County Fire Rescue.
Dubbed the “Worky Turkey” event, the tradition started four years ago and was spearheaded by PFFMC board member Nicolas “Zanc” Zancanata. This year, the leadership of PFFMC coordinated the with board member James “Butcher” Butscher organizing delivery efforts.
“This time of year can be very stressful for our first responders and I am honored to continue the tradition that Zanc started by helping to relieve some of the stress,” Butscher said in a media release.
Delivery of the turkeys was coordinated by Butcher and 10 off-duty PFFMC members to cover all the stations in Marion County’s 1,663 square miles. The turkeys are thawed and precooked, making it easy for on-duty crews to make dinner. This year, to expand the holiday spirit, PFFMC President Rolin Boyd was joined by David Knowles of 1-800boardup. com to share the program with MCFR Public Safety Communications members by providing dinner for the dispatch crews on duty on Thanksgiving Day, the release noted.
“Our members are happy to have a supporting community that appreciates their sacrifice and if we can empower and support our members to continue the service they provide, I am all for it,” Boyd stated.
To learn more about the PFFMC, find the group @marionfirefighters on Instagram, @FF4Marion on X and Professional Firefighters of Marion County on Facebook.
Food programs come to two Marion County schools
Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida recently expanded hunger relief programming in Marion County by launching its first new service line since merging with First Step Food Bank in November 2022.
With one in six children at risk of experiencing hunger on any given day in Central Florida, the School Partnerships Program offers a student-centered, stigma-reducing approach to increasing access to nutritious food, the news release noted.
Second Harvest recently launched the School Partnerships Program at East Marion and College Park Elementary Schools in Ocala. Both schools will operate two models:
•Campus Pantry: Students and their families will have access to a pantry of nonperishable food items to grab and eat or bring home to prepare for dinner.
•Fresh Market: Each month the schools will receive fresh produce for students to take home for their families. It may be the first introduction of certain fruits and vegetables.
“Kids can’t focus without consistent access to the nutritious food they need to learn, grow and thrive,” said Derrick Chubbs, president and CEO at Second Harvest, in the news release.
“By working directly with schools like East Marion Elementary and College Park Elementary, we can reach children where they are. No child should worry about where their next meal will come from.”
SHFBCF distributes food and grocery products to more than 750 local nonprofit feeding partners throughout Brevard, Lake, Marion, Orange, Osceola, Seminole and Volusia counties.
For more information, go to feedhopenow.org
Professional Firefighters of Marion County delivery members, from left, President Rolin Boyd, Chris Stencel, David Knowles, Alex Gikerie, James Butscher and John Ramsey, with boxes of turkeys. [Photo courtesy Professional Firefighters of Marion County]
Professional Firefighters of Marion County board member Clifton Murphy, second from left, with high performance crews and donated turkeys.
[Photo courtesy Professional Firefighters of Marion County]
“Still a ways to go …”
Mother of victim Ajike “AJ” Owens holds press event following sentencing of convicted shooter Susan Lorincz; new fund announced.
By Andy Fillmore andy@ocalagazette.com
The mother of shooting victim Ajike “AJ”
Owens said during a press conference on Wednesday, Nov. 27, 2024, that her family has gotten some relief and is ready to heal but there’s still a ways to go to get justice for her daughter
“We’re able to breathe now; we want to help others,” Pamela Dias said during an online press conference held in the wake of Susan Lorincz’s sentencing to 25 years in prison for a conviction on charges including manslaughter with a firearm.
Owens, 35, the mother of four pre-teen children, died on June 2, 2023, after Lorincz, now 60, fired a gunshot through a locked door, which struck Owens in the upper chest. The shooting occurred when Owens went to Lorincz’s nearby residence with her then 10-year-old son and demanded Lorincz come out to talk about an earlier confrontation in a central grassy area where neighborhood kids played, according to a Marion County Sheriff’s Office arrest document.
The confrontation was part of an ongoing dispute between Lorincz and the children playing in the grassy field, including Owens’ children, and involved throwing a roller skate at one of the children, according to the arrest document.
Lorincz told a deputy she was “fearful of her life” when the shooting occurred. Lorincz, who is white, used racial slurs around the children who played in the grassy field, according to at least one witness. Owens was Black.
During the press conference, Dias said her daughter was a mother who “had enough” when she went to confront Lorincz, who, she said, shot “not out of fear, but anger.”
Dias said after an “18-month journey“ she is ready to “carry on and move forward with healing.”
The press conference included the family’s attorney, Anthony Thomas, who served as cocounsel with nationally recognized trail lawyer Ben Krump, and family friend Tameka Robinson, who is spearheading efforts to build a fund dedicated to Owens
and aimed at helping families and victims of racial violence.
Thomas spoke of “five days of unrest” following Owens’ killing before the Marion County Sheriff’s Office charged Lorincz. He feels the MCSO decision to charge Lorincz rather than accept a “stand your ground” defense was likely influenced by local activism and national attention trained on the case.
“Susan Lorincz said she had fear of her life but there was no threat behind a locked (front) and she could’ve gotten behind a locked bedroom door and waited for responding law enforcement to arrive,” Thomas said. He added that the judge in Lorincz’s trial agreed.
Thomas said the Florida law known as “Stand Your Ground,” which permits use of deadly force without retreat if a person is in fear of their life, allows the person using the deadly force “to define”
the level of the threat.
Thomas stated that historically, “especially in Marion County,” people have often been able to “get away with” crimes of violence against persons of color and invoke self-defense.
On June 6, 2023, Marion County Sheriff Billy Woods spoke to the five-day time frame before Lorincz was charged in a video posted on Facebook stating that investigators had been “working around the clock” and that “rushing in to make an arrest” could have caused more complications and errors.
Woods said in part that his office “wanted justice” within the time frame necessary while “all sides” provided information through evidence.
Robinson is spearheading the establishment of the Standing in the Gap fund in honor of Owens with a goal of raising $20 million over the next 10 years.
“In the spirit of justice, healing and our beloved departed Ajike "AJ" Owens… (the) mission of Standing in the Gap is to support families impacted by racial violence by easing the financial burden and supporting the healing journey through holistic responses rooted in justice, healing, and culture,” the organization’s Facebook page states .
Dias called the idea of a fund to help victims a “living, breathing” lifeline for families.
A news release issued Nov. 29 offered details about the fund and stated that, “The fund, created in memory of Ajike
‘AJ’ Owens and countless others lost to racial violence, stands as a rapidresponse, reimbursable fund
MAN DIES IN CRASH ON I-75; SIX INJURED
By Andy Fillmore andy@ocalagazette.com
A65-year-old Apopka man died and six others were transported to local hospitals with injuries following a multicar crash on Interstate 75 in northwest Marion County on Nov. 28. According to the Florida Highway Patrol, the crash occurred around 5:52 p.m. on I-75 northbound at mile marker 365, which is near the County Road 318 exit at mile marker 368. According to an FHP press release, a pickup truck driven southbound in the left lane by the victim “lost control and collided with the center median guardrail and overturned over the guardrail.” The pickup truck then struck a sedan driven northbound in the left lane by a 42-year-old
designed to assist families in crisis and support organizers advocating for systemic change. Its first recipient was AJ Owens’ family, highlighting the fund’s urgent mission to provide assistance when families are grappling with unimaginable devastation. Often, they are unable to navigate the complexities of legal, financial, and emotional challenges that come with such a loss.”
“This is about more than one case; it’s about dismantling the systems that enable racial violence while ensuring that families in crisis have the support they need to begin healing. We must stand together to create lasting change,” Dias stated in the release.
The materials noted that rapidresponse grants can offer families financial support to alleviate the burdens of funeral costs, legal expenses, housing and other urgent needs, and for organizers, grants to sustain community-led efforts that advocate for justice and build resilience.
As part of its launch, the Standing in the Gap Fund is inviting the public to take action on Giving Tuesday, Dec. 3, 2024, when the fund aims to raise $10,000 to support its mission.
“This is our collective answer to racial violence that has plagued our communities for far too long. Together, we can create lasting change,” Robinson stated in the release. "With plans to begin distributions in early 2026, we are working toward a 2030 goal to endow the fund—ensuring it can provide meaningful and sustained support for families in a space we wish didn’t exist but recognize is urgently necessary.”
The release also noted that, during Miami Art Week in early December, the Standing in the Gap Fund will debut with an immersive art installation at Choublak in Little Haiti. “A Space for Healing, Reflection, and Action,” created in partnership with The Givers Revival and Miami-based artist Loni Johnson, “the exhibit will blend art, community, and remembrance to honor Black women, families, and communities impacted by racial violence. Attendees are invited to experience this sacred space, which celebrates the resilience of those who have endured unimaginable loss, while fostering unity and healing. The programming is open to the public, welcoming both the local community and visitors to reflect, connect and take action.”
The Standing in the Gap Fund is a donor-advised fund established through the Greater Washington Area Community Foundation and all donations are taxdeductible. To learn more, go to standinginthegapfund.org
Albany, Georgia, woman who had minor injuries, the press release stated. An SUV traveling northbound in the left lane, driven by a 41-year-old Sharpsburg, Georgia, man, who was not injured, was struck by debris, according to the press release.
The press release indicated passengers in the pickup truck, men ages 57 and 74, both of Orlando, suffered serious injuries and
passengers in the sedan, girls ages 7 and 12 of Albany, incurred minor injuries. The six passengers in the SUV, a woman age 42, an 18-year-old man and girls ages 16, 14, and two 13-year-olds, were not injured.
The press release indicated the 65-yearold victim, who was pronounced deceased at a hospital, was not wearing a seat belt, while the other drivers and the passengers involved in the crash were wearing seat belts.
Pamela Dias, the mother of Ajike “AJ” Shantrell Owens, wipes away tears after Susan Lorincz was sentenced to 25 years by Circuit Court Judge Robert Hodges at the Marion County Judicial Center in Ocala, Fla. on Monday, Nov. 25, 2024. Lorincz was found guilty of manslaughter in August for the June 2, 2023, shooting death of Ajike “AJ” Shantrell Owens, who Lorincz shot and killed through her closed and locked front door.
Susan Lorincz is fingerprinted in court after being sentenced to 25 years by Circuit Court Judge Robert Hodges at the Marion County Judicial Center in Ocala, Fla. on Monday, Nov. 25, 2024. Lorincz was found guilty of manslaughter in August for the June 2, 2023, shooting death of Ajike “AJ” Shantrell Owens, who Lorincz shot and killed through her closed and locked front door.
A woman raises her arms during the Celebration of Life for Ajike “AJ” Owens at Meadowbrook Church in Ocala, Fla. on Monday, June 12, 2023. Owens was killed on June 2 by neighbor Susan Lorincz who shot her through her closed door.
Photos by Bruce Ackerman Ocala Gazette
Laissez les bon temps rouler in Ocala
By Susan Smiley-Height susan@magnoliamediaco.com
What do you get when a local nonprofit organization hosts a Mardi Gras themed Holiday Charity Ball to benefit its students as well as the people involved with four other agencies?
“This isn’t just another fundraiser; it’s a celebration of community, culture and compassion. What sets this event apart is its unique blend of festive entertainment and collective impact,” said event host Barbara J. Brooks, Ph.D., president of R.A.M.A.L. Educational and Social Services, Inc.
Proceeds from the evening will support programs that R.A.M.A.L. already partners with or supports. During the event, which will begin at 6 p.m. Dec. 28 at the Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place, guests will learn about all five organizations and how their contributions make a difference in the community.
• The Kut Different Summer Mentoring Program: Empowering youth through mentorship
• The ROCK Program outreach van: Providing crucial supplies such as shoes, clothing
and hygiene products to students in need
• Marion County Boys & Girls Club Summer Camp: Enriching the lives of children with engaging summer activities
• Estelle Byrd Whitman Wellness Center: Ensuring patients receive vital medicine and supplies
• R.A.M.A.L. Educational and Social Services, Inc. Summer Academic Program: Supporting academic success for local students
The immersive Mardi Gras event will include the soulful sounds of Phillip “Jazz Man” Thomas & Band, DJ Casey Heathman, a silent auction with exclusive items and experiences, a 50/50 raffle and gift card drawings, contests for the most imaginative mask and umbrella and a meal crafted by Southern Faire, “ensuring your taste buds are as entertained as your spirit.”
“The Holiday Charity Ball Mardi Gras style is designed to be a feast for the senses, encouraging attendees to embrace the festive spirit with vibrant attire, masks and beads. It is an opportunity to dance, connect and contribute to the greater good—all while experiencing the magical moments of Mardi Gras,” Brooks noted in the media materials.
A Dec. 28 Mardi Gras themed charity ball will “let the good times roll” to benefit five local nonprofit agencies. Our commitment to Ocala is growing with the opening of our newest hospital, featuring a state-of-the-art ER with shorter wait times, inpatient services for when a higher level of care is needed, an advanced surgical center, the convenience of an on-site medical laboratory, and comprehensive imaging services. Introducing UF Health Ocala Neighborhood Hospital — where convenience meets compassion, backed by the nationally acclaimed care our UF Health experts offer.
The Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place is located at 1821 NW 21st Ave., Ocala. Tickets for the fundraiser are $75 per person and available at eventbrite. com/e/holiday-charity-balltickets-1039016876447?aff= oddtdtcreator
To learn more about R.A.M.A.L. or the other nonprofit organizations that will benefit from the event, contact Brooks at 352-8754237 or barbarabrooksf@aol. com.
R.A.M.A.L. Educational and Social Services, Inc., tutor Theresa L. Roberts, right, works with students Nolan Ransome, Judy Magdaleno and Kelani Naylor on Monday, Dec. 2, 2024, in Ocala. [Photo courtesy Barbara Brooks, Ph.D.]
R.A.M.A.L. Educational and Social Services, Inc., tutor Laverne Engram, in center, works with students Alizer Jones and Kingston Modican on Monday, Dec. 2, 2024, in Ocala. [Photo courtesy Barbara Brooks, Ph.D.]
Genuine collaboration
The new “Be Kind” exhibit at the Brick City Center for the Arts melds the distinctive talents of artists Cara VL and Kelsey Mahoney.
By Susan Smiley-Height susan@magnoliamediaco.com
Two local artists with diversely different styles have teamed up for the new “Be Kind” exhibit at the Brick City Center for the Arts. Cara Van Leuven, or Cara VL, is known for her artworks of leggy equines. Kelsey Mahoney creates works of geometric shapes in various colors and tones.
“Experience the fusion of their styles as they celebrate the beauty of motion and emotion in every piece. Cara's striking, longlegged horses leap off the canvas, embodying grace and movement, while Kelsey's intricate Sharpie details add an energetic layer of depth and texture. Together, they create a vibrant dialogue between form and line, inviting viewers to explore the synergy of their artistic visions,” noted the news release from the Marian Cultural Alliance.
According to an “inspiration” statement on her website, “The hyperreal, disproportionately long legs of the horses found in Cara Van Leuven’s art is founded in the sense of fragility omnipresent within any equestrian relationship.”
The notes indicate that, “Ironically, in 2008 it was Cara’s extended hiatus away from horses caused by her blossoming photography and graphic design career that ultimately became the catalyst for Cara to recombine her purposefully unearthed passion for all things equestrian with her hardearned visual arts prowess. The result? Chaos that’s under control, in colors that jump off the canvas.”
A March 2022 feature article in the “Gazette’s” sister publication,
“Ocala Style Magazine,” noted that Mahoney was being recognized by leaders in the local art scene and was invited to participate in WUFT TV’s “Artistry in Motion” exhibition and had her first solo exhibition, “Pixel Adventures,” at the 8th Ave. Gallery in Ocala.
Mahoney, who has Down syndrome, has been creating art since she was 6 years old. The article noted that, “Each person with DS has a unique way of looking at life. Their artistic expressions are distinctive because they reflect their individuality.
Over the past 20 or so years, many such artists have had their work recognized by the artistic community and have flourished in the field, allowing them to showcase their art around the world—some have even had their work included in exhibitions
and the permanent collections of such world-class museums as the Museum of Modern Art in New York. But Mahoney and her family, which includes sisters Madison and Brianna, want the world to focus on her talent as an artist, not as an artist with DS, above all else.”
Mahoney posted recently on social media that she was “excited to be working on the collaborative piece with my favorite artist and friend, Cara VL.”
“Working with an artist as talented as Kelsey has greatly enhanced my own work and vision. There was an unspoken agreement in the beginning where neither of us asked the other what to do; we would simply sit and respect one another's vision as artists. I think that's why I'm so proud of the work that we've done for this show. It has a natural flow and grace that wasn't forced, rather a genuine collaboration unfolded,” Van Leuven said via email.
“As always, working with MCA for ‘Be Kind’ has been so easy and uplifting. When we initially proposed our idea to them, they were immediately on board. I hope Ocala understands what a blessing MCA is—their support for the arts and artists is simply creatively driven, not ego,” Van Leuven added.
“Be Kind” will be on display through Jan. 4. The Brick City Center for the Arts is located at 23 SW Broadway St. in downtown Ocala.
For gallery hours and more information, go to mcaocala.org or call 352-369-1500. To learn more about the artists, go to fb .com/kelseymahoneyartist and caravl.com
Artists Cara Van Leuven, or Cara VL, left, and Kelsey Mahoney, enjoy a moment together. [Photo courtesy Cara VL]
The new “Be Kind” exhibit at the Brick City Center for the Arts combines the talents of artists Cara Van Leuven, or Cara VL, and Kelsey Mahoney, such as this colorful work.
This line art image is one of the collaborative works of artists Cara Van Leuven, or Cara VL, left, and Kelsey Mahoney.
The new “Be Kind” exhibit at the Brick City Center for the Arts combines Kelsey Mahoney’s colorful touches meshed with Cara Van Leuven, or Cara VL’s signature long-legged horses.
The new “Be Kind” exhibit at the Brick City Center for the Arts combines the talents of artists Cara Van Leuven, or Cara VL, and Kelsey Mahoney, such as this line art image.
[Photo courtesy Cara VL]
Holiday hilarity
From Dec. 4-15, “A Tuna Christmas” is live for the first time at OCT, where the talents of two actors will bring life to 20 characters on one stage. The setting is Christmastime and the location is Tuna, the thirdsmallest town in Texas.
The plot hinges on the town’s annual Christmas yard display contest and an elusive phantom who threatens to ruin the contest for all. With side-splittingly funny subplots sprinkled throughout the show, it is not necessary to follow any one theme to get a laugh.
Scott Fitzgerald stars alongside Allsopp as the duo tackles the hilarity and complexity of each character with personalities as big and wide as the Lonestar state itself. Fitzgerald is returning to the OCT stage, where he previously played Chris in “The Velocity of Autumn” and Anthony Reilly in “Outside Mullingar.” The show opens with Fitzgerald playing radio station personality Arles Struvie, of fictional radio station KTNA. With quick wit and striking stage command, Fitzgerald sets the satirical tone early on. Allsopp plays radio announcer Thurston Wheelis, who sits alongside Fitzgerald in the radio’s control room as the two read from a fake news report and mime hand props. The show runs around two hours in length, with one intermission. In the
first act, Allsopp sweeps the stage with the swagger of a seasoned actor as he takes on the character of Bertha Bumiller, a proud Baptist housewife, mother and member of the Smut Snatchers of the New Order club. Allsopp identifies with Bertha because she struggles, as we all do, to make everything as perfect as possible.
“She is constantly making lemonade out of lemons but is powerless to hide the cracks in her veneer,” Allsopp said.
A funny subplot of the play is that of Didi Snavely, owner of a used weapons store, whose slogan is, “If we can’t kill it, it’s immortal.” Dressed in a camouflage top that appropriately clashes with a sheer coat and disheveled wig, Fitzgerald rocks the role of Snavely.
Allsopp says it is the brotherhood shared with Fitzgerald that has made this play special.
“Scott is the absolute best,” Allsopp said.
Fitzgerald and Allsopp complement each other on stage with their treatment of all 20 characters. This comedic yet realistic treatment will leave the audience wondering if they are watching a play or a reality series based on the lives of each person captured by the cast of two.
According to OCT personnel, Fitzgerald is thrilled to be reunited with “A Tuna Christmas” director Eric Nightengale, with whom he has previously worked. Nightengale does not think he has ever laughed so much at work. “A Tuna Christmas” is the first OCT play directed by Nightengale. New to Ocala, he is a member of New Circle Theatre Company, Concrete Temple Theatre, Anthropological Theatricals in New York City and The Acme Corporation in Baltimore. Nightengale has a deep affection for the world portrayed in “A Tuna Christmas” and a personal understanding of the pros and cons of small-town living.
“I grew up in a small town in Indiana where everybody knew everybody and you were considered a visitor unless your family had been in the area for more than three generations,” Nightengale said.
“A Tuna Christmas” is a satirical comedy that mimics and mocks the trappings of living in a tiny town where tradition trumps progress. Written by Jaston Williams, Joe Sears and Ed Howard, this satirical play qualifies as Texas-sized with personalities that are as big as they are boisterously funny.
Melody Murphy, director of marketing and public relations for OCT, said
this show is the theatre’s first true comedy of this mainstage season. With a PG rating, Murphy assures that while the play may not be ideal for children, teens might enjoy it.
“Some of the humor might be a little saucy for kids. I think teens would enjoy it. The comedy is broad, and the pace is fast,” Murphy said.
A variety of country Christmas songs are spread throughout the many transitions as Allsopp and Fitzgerald tackle the task of multiple personalities and their accompanying costume changes. Allsopp says that the real stars of the show are the women behind the scenes.
“The real stars of the show are the incredible women who have the impossible task of making our many quick changes possible,” Allsopp said. “‘Quick’ is insulting when you take into account everything they make happen. ‘Magic‘ would be more appropriate,” he continued.
Despite the magic of the lightning speed costume and wig changes, Allsopp insists there is nothing fancy or pretentious about this show.
“It’s just truth, with loving embellishment and a strong sense of familiarity,” Allsopp said.
According to OCT Executive and Artistic Director Greg Thompson, satire serves a purpose on the stage.
“From Mark Twain to ‘Saturday Night Live,’ satire is one of the few places in society where we can still speak truth to power and get a good laugh, or cringe, out of it,” Thompson said.
The quirky characters, quick costume changes and clever dialogue create a winning formula for fun and farce, according to Thompson.
Throughout their many rapid-fire costume changes, the actors perfectly capture the caricature of southern personalities with their pantomime gestures, gaudy wigs and syrupy southern drawls. Whether male or female, young or old, Fitzgerald and Allsopp do not simply play characters, they embody them with ease. When it comes to wearing high heels on stage, however, Fitzgerald says he won’t miss it.
“I have been so excited about this production of ‘A Tuna Christmas,’ but if I never wear high heels again it will be too soon,” Fitzgerald said.
Of the many characters Fitzgerald plays, Vera Carp, the snobbish winner of the Christmas yard display contest for 14 years in a row, is sure to elicit a laugh.
Fitzgerald’s portrayal of her is among his most flamboyant.
The show’s second act is clever, quick-witted and hilarious enough to snap the most stubborn funny bone as two “Tastee Kreme” waitresses learn they have overtaken Carp and won the Christmas yard display contest.
In the final scene, Allsopp and Fitzgerald are in costume as Bertha Bumiller and Arles Struvie, alone at the radio station Christmas party, with Arles
offering Bertha several snorts of liquor as they talk. Despite her Baptist convictions, Bertha downs the alcohol. The boozy conversation leads to an awkward slow dance and a slick surprise that perfectly punctuates the slapstick performance.
Murphy says viewers may recognize a lot of the characters played by the duo within their own family and that they may love a lot of these characters, often in spite of themselves.
“Our two actors are playing a host of eccentric but lovable souls, and I think everyone will relate to the sometimes-wild lengths they all go to in trying to have or give others a merry Christmas, because don’t we often do the same,” Murphy stated. “There are moments of sweetness, but mostly it’s just no-holds-barred holiday hilarity.”
The Ocala Civic Theatre is located at 4337 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala. Tickets for “A Tuna Christmas” are $35 for adults and $17 for ages 18 and younger. This show is rated PG. Buy tickets online at ocalacivictheatre.com. To get tickets through the OCT box office, call (352) 236-2274 or visit 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Actors Scott Fitzgerald and John Allsopp play 20 characters in the Ocala Civic Theatre’s production of “A Tuna Christmas,” on stage through Dec. 15. [Photos by Dave Schlenker, courtesy OCT]
Annual Turkey Trot in Ocala draws thousands
By Susan Smiley-Height
Photos courtesy of Kaplan Media
While many people start off Thanksgiving Day by toiling in the kitchen or settling down in front of the television to watch the Macy’s parade, lots of folks lace up their sneakers and go for a run.
The 29th annual Turkey Trot at the Frank DeLuca YMCA in Ocala drew a whopping 1,889 participants. In addition to 5K and 10K runs, the event also included a pickleball tournament, youth dodgeball and a cycle class. There was something for participants of all ages and inclinations, and several athletes sported turkey hats and costumes. Even under gray skies, it ended up being a great day for getting some exercise and sharing camaraderie with fellow Ocalans.
You can find a complete photo gallery at fb.com/@ FrankDeLucaYMCA
a whopping 1,889 participants. In addition to 5K and 10K runs, the event also included a pickleball tournament, youth dodgeball and a cycle
Research scientist to lecture in Ocala
Dr. Timothy Broderick will discuss
By Susan Smiley-Height susan@magnoliamediaco.com
On Dec. 10, Dr. Timothy Broderick will be the guest lecturer at the Institute for Human & Machine Cognition in downtown Ocala. He will discuss whether wearable electronic devices and artificial intelligence can really improve one’s health.
Broderick is a chief science officer and senior research scientist with IHMC, which has its headquarters in Pensacola. He helps shape strategy and performs high impact research focused on enhancing human health and performance. He has helped develop advanced biomedical technologies for the Department of Defense, National Aeronautics and Space Administration and global medical device companies.
Prior to joining IHMC, Broderick was a practicing general, trauma and robotic surgeon. He served within the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, where he
established multiple high impact programs focused on precision diagnosis and treatment of disease and injury. He has worked within a broad range of technologies, including surgical robots, epigenetic diagnostics and wearable devices.
Broderick was born with an innate inquisitiveness and into a like-minded family.
“I was born and raised a middle child in a large family in Cincinnati, Ohio. There are many, many physicians and nurses in the extended family,” he noted.
As for his early proclivities,
he offered that “the description of me as a child varies widely and depends on who and when you asked. My parents described me as ‘cute and loveable as a puppy dog’ when I was a young child and ‘mischievously smart’ as I grew older. As a child, I was inspired by my parents’ love of family and desire to help others.
A few seminal events during childhood included watching the Apollo 11 moon landing, my father saving a man’s life at church and helping save a man who had his arm nearly cut off by a machete when I was an ER orderly.”
In addition to American Board of Surgery certification and fellowship in the American College of Surgeons, Broderick’s certifications and experience have earned him recognition as an honorary NASA flight surgeon and NOAA undersea saturation diver. He has been with IHMC in Pensacola for more than five years.
He said he loves “Florida and its inspiring natural beauty. I particularly enjoy relaxing on
beaches, fishing and scuba diving.
Another passion is travel and hiking the national parks.”
He and his wife Kara have been married for nearly 30 years.
“We have three beautiful children, Erin, Caitlin and Margaret (Maggie), who are spread out across the country in graduate school and college. Our family also includes a great dog named Fergus. We are blessed with a large and close extended family,” he shared.
During his lecture in Ocala, Broderick will ask and answer the question: Why do expensive wearable physiologic monitors fail to deliver on promises that they will improve our health and performance?
The news release announcing the lecture states that, “Surprisingly, the quality of physiological data from wearable devices such as smart watches is relatively poor— and it worsens when you are sick, active or in extreme environments. While security and privacy constrain sharing and remote analysis of these data, processor cores
and batteries limit artificial intelligence algorithms that can be used to analyze data on these devices. Finally, available devices do not provide users with actionable information about their health, stress and recovery when they need it most.”
“Ongoing Department of Defense and industry sponsored research at IHMC is pushing beyond these limitations. We highlight development of technologies such as advanced physiological sensors, tactical noninvasive nerve stimulators and novel “e-skin” materials that enable us to successfully assess and augment performance in extreme environments,” the material notes.
The IHMC campus is located at 15 SE Osceola Ave. The lecture will begin with a reception at 5:30 p.m., with the talk commencing at 6 p.m.
The event is free to attend but reservations are encouraged as space is limited. To register, go to ihmc.us/life/evening_lectures/ ocala-lecture-series
Dr. Timothy Broderick. [Photo courtesy IHMC]
Frank and Angela DeLuca pose before the start of the 29th annual Frank DeLuca YMCA Turkey Trot on Nov. 28 in Ocala. [Photo courtesy Kaplan Media]
The 29th annual Turkey Trot at the Frank DeLuca YMCA in Ocala drew
class. [Photos courtesy Kaplan Media]
Mount Moriah Church
would be open-air parking.
The project is anticipated to be completed by around June of 2026.
The council also awarded Thomas Amodeo D/B/A A&A Trucking and Excavating a $94,694 contract from the city to demolish and remove the building structures and disconnect and remove the utility services that serve the buildings.
The contract also requires the demolition company to preserve the stained-glass window that serves as a historical marker for the building by removing it and delivering it to the city.
The Mount Moriah Church community has
since moved to another location, but members pleaded with the city council to ensure that the site will also be home to a monument to acknowledge the church’s long history and impact on the community at large.
Richard Edwards, the son of Pastor Emeritus Lorenzo Edwards, came to speak on behalf of the church’s history.
The Mount Moriah church was founded in May 1867 when the Rev. Samuel Small and 90 Black members of First Baptist Church, most of them former slaves, decided to break away and form a church of their own, according to church documents.
“Within the church, there’s a stained-
Browning
Browning said.
Trump endorsed Fine, a state senator from Melbourne Beach, in a post on Nov. 23.
“A Harvard-educated, successful businessman and highly respected state legislator, Randy has been an incredible voice for MAGA and the great people of Florida,” Trump wrote. “Run, Randy, Run!” Fine and Browning are joined by three other candidates: Andrew Parrott, a Libertarian; Joshua Vasquez, a Republican; and Ehsan Joarder, a Republican.
glass window that was designed by my mother to commemorate my brother and others who have gone on to glory,” Edwards said. “We feel like the mother church of many churches in this community.”
Lorenzo Edwards was recently honored by the city of Ocala and the College of Central Florida by the naming a community room after him in the Hampton Center, of which he was the founder.
“(Lorenzo Edwards), being a legacy himself, would love to see, as well as many members who remain, a monument at that location of where Mount Moriah stood as a light and a beacon for this community,” Richard Edwards said.
City Manager Pete Lee assured the audience that not only would the window be saved but that the acknowledgement of Mount Moriah would be more than a plaque or a cornerstone on the garage.
“This is a very, very important church for all the reasons stated and beyond, and I agree too that it would be beyond a disservice to place a plaque on the side of parking wall,” Lee said. “It’s not my intent or our staff ’s intent to do that. It would be freestanding monumentation.”
Lee said that throughout the process of designing the monument the city staff would remain in touch with church staff to ensure that the monument is appropriate.
Dec. 5 and 6. If there are two or more candidates, a primary election will be held for the Republican and Democratic parties on Jan. 28, with a general election on April 1.
Browning formerly served on the Marion County School Board from August 2021 until November 2022. He was appointed to the board by Gov. Ron DeSantis.
months and was conducted in response to a Title VII complaint accusing Browning of causing hostility in the workplace.
Representatives.
“In my opinion, he’s a total patriot who’s been recognized by the MAGA organization,” Browning said. Continued from page A1
Qualifying will take place on
During his term, an investigation was held into Browning in relation to accusations that he made sexist and racist remarks to other school district staff. The investigation lasted for several
Browning was found to have not contributed to a “hostile work environment,” but his words and actions were found to have amounted to “bullying and harassment” as defined by the school board’s policy. The findings of the investigation were sent to the governor’s office, but no disciplinary action was taken against Browning.
Now, Browning lists education as a key value if he is given the opportunity to serve District 6 in the U.S. House of
“I’m poised, I’m right there, and I’m MAGA. That’s just what I am. I’ve been behind Trump since his early days,” Browning said.
“All they’ve got to do is say, ‘Go soldier, move. Attention on deck.’ And I’m there.”
Browning is a retired businessman and formerly served in the U.S. Navy.
“We want to end the ‘woke.’ We want to end the nonsense. We want to end socialism,” Browning said. “I say it like this:
‘If grandma would not approve of it at Thanksgiving dinner, then get your elbows off the table and go to your room.’”
Browning also expressed a desire to improve the health of Marion County’s citizens, who suffer from cancer at higher rates than most other counties in the state of Florida.
Marion County sees 525 occurrences of cancer out of every 100,000 people, in comparison to the state average of 473 per 100,000, according to FLhealthcharts.gov
Regardless of his willingness to serve, Browning said he supports Fine as Trump does.
ocalagazette
Historical photos and items are shown in a display case at the Mt. Moriah Missionary Baptist Church on Southwest 3rd Avenue in Ocala, Fla. on Tuesday, May 3, 2022. The historical black church is celebrating its 155th anniversary.
A stained glass window is shown at the Mt. Moriah Missionary Baptist Church on Southwest 3rd Avenue in Ocala, Fla. on Tuesday, May 3, 2022. The historical black church is celebrating its 155th anniversary.
The Mt. Moriah Missionary Baptist Church is shown on Southwest 3rd Avenue in Ocala, Fla. on Tuesday, May 3, 2022. The historical black church is celebrating its 155th anniversary.
Photos by Bruce Ackerman Ocala Gazette
Minutes matter when you or a loved one has an illness, injury, chest pain or symptoms of a stroke. With three locations in Marion County, the emergency experts at AdventHealth are nearby to provide the care you need to help you feel whole.
In case of a medical emergency, call 911.
Hurricanes had little effect on October real estate activity in Florida
Staff Report
The Florida Realtors agents’ association’s October 2024 market report shows that, statewide, the median singlefamily home sale price in Florida rose to $415,000, a 1.2% year over year increase. Townhouses and condo median sales price decreased to $315,000, a 2.2% decrease from October 2023.
The Ocala/Marion County’s October median sale price reported for single-family homes was $290,000, which did not change from last year. Ocala/Marion County reported 667 closings of single-family homes in October, a decrease of 5.9% from October 2023.
Hurricanes Helene and Milton seemed to have no measurable effect on total sales, said Brad O’Connor, senior economist for the Florida Realtors, a statewide agents’ reporting and professional trade association.
“As the month began, parts of the state were still reeling from the impacts of Category Four Hurricane Helene," O'Connor said. "Helene came ashore at the end of September in the sparsely populated Big Bend area of the Panhandle. But along the way it produced significant storm surge damage well down the Gulf Coast of the peninsula and into Tampa Bay.”
O’Connor said of the rise in mortgage interest rates, "Mortgage interest rates, which had reached their lows for the year in September, began climbing again. In the first week of October, Freddie Mac reported the national average interest rate on a 30-year fixed rate mortgage climbed 2/10 of one percentage point from where they were the week prior, up to 6.3% by the end of the month.”
O'Connor went on to say, "All of these significant challenges, however, failed to substantially deepen the Florida housing market’s current sales slump.”
Overall, October activity was down, he stated.
"Home prices were largely unaffected by the hurricanes, which is actually typical. Major hurricane landfalls in Florida tend to affect listing and sales activity in the short run, particularly in the areas most impacted, but they rarely impact home prices. The statewide median sale price for single family homes in October was $420,000, a 1.2% rise compared to a year ago," he offered.
SINGLE-FAMILY MARKET SECTOR
Statewide, single family home sales in October were down 5.6.3% compared to a year ago, with 18,617 total sales reported. The active listing inventory for single-family homes is at 97,832 an increase of 31% over last October.
By Jacqua Ballas President, Pioneer Garden Club of Ocala
Bright red and green poinsettias are a popular way to decorate your home during the holiday season. Poinsettias are the most popular flowering plants during November and December. The poinsettia is December’s birth flower and Poinsettia Day in the United States is Dec. 12. Poinsettias have an interesting history and are known by many names, such as Christmas star, Mexican flame leaf, winter rose, Noche Buena and Atakurk’s flower.
MEANING AND HISTORY OF POINSETTIAS
The poinsettia is associated with a Mexican legend. The story goes that a child, with no means for a grander gift, gathered humble weeds from the side of the road to place at the church altar on Christmas Eve. As the congregation witnessed a Christmas miracle, the weeds turned into brilliant red and green flowers.
The poinsettia was named after Joel Roberts Poinsett, who was the first United States ambassador to Mexico. He was the amateur botanist who introduced the plant to the U.S. in 1825. Poinsettias were the favorite flower of Atakurk, the founder of modern Turkey. The ancient Aztecs considered poinsettias to be symbols of purity. In today’s language of flowers, the poinsettia symbolizes good cheer and
The association reported the supply of single-family existing homes statewide increased to a 4.7-months’ supply, a 34.3% increase from last October.
“Months’ supply inventory is a useful indicator of market conditions,” the report stated.
“The benchmark for a balanced market (favoring neither buyer nor seller) is 5.5 months of inventory. Anything higher is traditionally a buyers' market, and anything lower is a sellers' market.”
Statewide, the number of cash sales for single-family homes decreased by 20.2% with a total of 4,880 throughout Florida. These accounted for 26.2% of all sales, just over one-quarter of the overall market.
“Cash sales can be a useful indicator,” the report stated,
Home & Garden
DEVELOPMENT BRIEF: SILVER SPRINGS SHORES, UNIT 25
Location Parcel 36640-004-00, south of SE 80th St., east of the railroad tracks, and west of Juniper Road
Type of request Rezoning from General Agriculture to PUD, a revision of a 2016 request from A-1 to Multifamily. That PUD request has expired.
# of dwelling units on # of acres 157 single-family detached dwellings units on 39.36 acres
Commissioner/council district contact District 3, Matt McClain Matthew.McClain@MarionFl.org
Affected schools and current capacities per county staff report
Notes of interest
Legacy Elementary (81.37% capacity); Belleview Middle School (104.5% capacity): and Belleview High School (117.46% capacity)
The parcel is part of the Silver Springs Shores development of regional impact, which is within the Urban Growth Boundary. It is west of the currently developed Juniper Road area.
The staff report stated the development would have 40' wide interior lots, a playground area, a dog park and a pavilion.
Staff recommends two access points for the development, one of which might be a four-way stop at the intersection of Juniper Road and SE 79th Street. One condition of the PUD is that additional parking be added near the playground and that driveways be long enough to allow for off-street parking.
Additionally, one-story homes be along the outside boundaries of the project. Two-story homes should be in the interior.
The proposed builder is D.R. Horton.
Previous recommendations
The P&Z recommended approval (50) of the rezoning with conditions.
Agenda item 1.7 The item will be slated for a future Marion County BOCC Planning & Zoning meeting, date TBD.
White poinsettia with ribbon. [Photo courtesy
Images courtesy Marion County
See Hurricanes, page B9
Visit these new home models
CALESA TOWNSHIP
Currant Model - 6404 SW 78th Court Ocala, FL 34474
1,879 a/c sq. ft. single family home starting at $327,990 featuring 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2 car garage, great room, flex room, laundry suite, and covered lanai.
Garnet Model - 6416 SW 78th Court Ocala, FL 34474
1,921 a/c sq. ft. single family home starting at $333,990 featuring 4 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2 car garage, great room, breakfast area, laundry suite, and patio.
Sable Model - 6428 SW 78th Court Ocala, FL 34474
2,420 a/c sq. ft. single family home starting at $358,990 featuring 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 2 car garage, great room, living room, game room, breakfast area, laundry suite, patio.
Gardenia Model - 6440 SW 78th Court Ocala, FL 34474
2,671 a/c sq. ft. single family home starting at $411,990 featuring 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, 3 car tandem garage, great room, dining room, nest, laundry suite, and covered lanai.
Larkspur Model - 6464 SW 78th Court Ocala, FL 34474
3,089 a/c sq. ft. single family home starting at $431,990 featuring 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, 3 car tandem garage, great room, dining room, flex room, nest, laundry suite, and covered lanai.
Marigold Model - 6476 SW 78th Court Ocala, FL 34474
3,374 a/c sq. ft. single family home starting at $448,990 featuring 5 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, 3 car tandem garage, great room, dining room, nest, loft, laundry suite, and covered lanai.
Sable (Inventory Home Available Now!) - 5724 SW 77th Avenue Road
2,420 a/c sq. ft. single family home priced at $396,835 featuring 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 2 car garage, great room, flex room, game room, breakfast area, laundry suite, and covered lanai.
LENNAR
Grand Park North - 352-663-8353
Medallion Model - 19384 SW 77th Loop, Dunnellon, FL 34432
2,657 a/c sq. ft., single-family home starting at $401,999, 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, 3 car garage
2,124 a/c sq. ft., single-family home starting at $325,999, 3 bedrooms, den, retreat, 2 baths, 2 car garage
Marion Ranch - 352-505-9032
Trevi II Model - 8319 SW 46th Avenue, Ocala, FL 34476
1,943 a/c sq. ft., single-family home starting at $312,990, 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, 2 car garage
Chloe Model - 8315 SW 46th Avenue, Ocala, FL 34476
2,260 a/c sq. ft., single-family home starting at $334,990, 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, 2 car garage
Millwood - 352-559-8403
Trevi Model - 3545 NE 38th Lane, Ocala, FL 34479
2,028 a/c sq. ft., single-family home starting at $4 bedrooms, 3 baths, 2 car garage
Oak Hammock Townhomes - 352-562-7154
Lincoln Model - 3233 SE 37th Avenue Road, Ocala, FL 34480
1,707 a/c sq. ft., single-family home starting at $251,999, 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 1 car garage
Truman Model - 3221 SE 37th Avenue Road, Ocala, FL 34480
1,782 a/c sq. ft., single-family home starting at $261,999, 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 1 car garage
Pioneer Ranch - 352-505-9605
Medallion II Model - 6867 SW 90th Loop, Ocala, FL 34476
2,657 a/c sq. ft., single-family home starting at $389,990, 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, 3 car garage
PULTE HOMES
Marion Ranch
Bloomfield Model - 8316 SW 46th Ave, Ocala, FL 34476
2,503 a/c Sq. Ft. Single family home starting at $396,990 featuring 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 3 car garage, quartz countertops, enclosed flex den, and covered lanai.
Medina Model - 8322 SW 46th Ave, Ocala, FL 34476
2,230 a/c Sq. Ft. Single family home starting at $369,990 featuring 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 2 car garage, quartz countertops, enclosed flex den and covered lanai.
Pioneer Ranch
Astoria Model - 6866 SW 90TH LOOP, Ocala, FL 34476
2,223 a/c Sq. Ft. Single family home starting at $374,990 featuring 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, 3 car garage, quartz countertops, enclosed flex den, and covered lanai.
Heston Model - 6862 SW 90TH LOOP, Ocala, FL 34476
1,850 a/c Sq. Ft. Single family home starting at $329,990 featuring 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 car garage, quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances and covered lanai.
Daylen Model - 6858 SW 90TH LOOP, Ocala, FL 34476
1,580 a/c Sq. Ff. Single family home starting at $297,990 featuring 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 car garage, quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, and covered lanai.
ON T OP O F THE WORLD
Weybourne Landing Model Center
Classic Series
Sunflower Model - 8891 SW 75th Loop, Ocala, FL 34481
1,967 a/c sq. ft., single-family home starting at $334,990 featuring 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2 car garage, great room, breakfast nook, laundry suite, and covered lanai.
Wisteria Model - 8895 SW 75th Loop, Ocala, FL 34481
2,126 a/c sq. ft., single-family home starting at $342,990 featuring 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2 car garage, great room, laundry suite, and covered lanai.
Longleaf Ridge Model Center
Premier Series
Beaumont Model - 10458 SW 96th Loop, Ocala, FL 34481
2,202 a/c sq. ft., single-family home starting at $394,490 featuring 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2 car garage with workshop space, great room, breakfast area, flex room, laundry suite, and covered lanai.
Magnolia Model - 10446 SW 96th Loop, Ocala, FL 34481
2,493 a/c sq. ft., single-family home starting at $413,490 featuring 2 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 2 car garage with golf cart space, great room, breakfast area, flex room, den, laundry suite, and covered lanai.
Ashford Model Center
Estate Series
Arlington Model - 9584 SW 82nd Street Road, Ocala, FL 34481
2,211 a/c sq. ft., single-family home starting at $455,490, featuring 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, 3 car garage, great room, breakfast area, workshop space, laundry suite, and a covered lanai.
Northampton Model - 9572 SW 82nd Street Road, Ocala, FL 34481
2,678 a/c sq. ft., single-family home starting at $463,490, featuring 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 3 car garage, great room, breakfast area, library, flex room, laundry suite, and a covered lanai.
Aberdeen Model - 9564 SW 82nd Street Road, Ocala, FL 34481
2,907 a/c sq. ft., single-family home starting at $491,490 featuring 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, 3 car garage, great room, 2nd master suite, breakfast area, flex room, laundry suite, and a covered lanai.
Move-in Ready Home
Brighton - Inventory Home Available Now! - 9725 SW 108th Terrace Road
2,145
DEL WEBB
Stone Creek Stardom Model - 9296 SW 60th Lane Road, Ocala, FL 34481
2,269 a/c Sq. Ft. Single family home starting at $397,990 featuring 2 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, 3 car garage, quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances and enclosed flex den. Stellar Model - 9312 SW 60th Lane Road, Ocala, FL 34481 2,483 a/c
starting at $412,990 featuring 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 2 car garage, enclosed flex den, stainless steel appliances and covered lanai.
Prestige Model - 9294 SW 60th Lane Road, Ocala, FL 34481
2,080 a/c Sq.
Single family home starting at $355,590 featuring 2 bedrooms, 2.5
Mainstay Model - 9290 SW 60th Lane Road, Ocala, FL 34481 1,948 a/c
Single family home starting at $349,990 featuring 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 car garage, luxury vinyl plank flooring, stainless steel appliances, and extended covered lanai. Compass Model - 9291 SW 60th Lane Road, Ocala, FL 34481
1,471 a/c Sq.
family home starting at $289,990 featuring 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 car garage, quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, and covered lanai.
Reddick
McIntosh
Dunnellon
Ocala
Belleview
Ash-throated flycatcher
Sudoku By The Mepham Group
An occasional winter visitor, the ash-throated flycatcher is similar in appearance to our more common great crested flycatcher. They’re typically a bit smaller and more pale. This one was photographed near the Ocala International Airport. (Photo: MichaelWarren.com)
government
DECEMBER
9, 16
Marion County Development Review
O ce of County Engineer, 412 SE 25th Ave., Building 1, Ocala
9am
The committee meets each Monday to review and vote on waiver requests to the Land Development Code, major site plans and subdivision plans. See marion.fl.legistar.com/calendar.aspx for agenda and minutes.
DECEMBER
17
Marion County Board of County Commissioners
McPherson Governmental Campus Auditorium, 601 SE 25th Ave., Ocala
9am
The commission meets in the morning of the first and third Tuesday of the month. Agendas, minutes and video are available at marionfl.legistar.com/calendar.aspx
Ocala City Council
Ocala City Hall, 110 SE Watula Ave., Ocala
4pm
The council meets each first and third Tuesday of the month. Ocala government agendas and minutes are available at ocala.legistar.com/calendar.aspx
Belleview City Commission
Belleview City Hall, 5343 SE Abshier Blvd., Belleview
6pm
Meets the first and third Tuesday of the month; agendas, minutes and video available at belleviewfl.org/200/ agendas-minutes
DECEMBER 18
Dunnellon City Council
Dunnellon City Hall, 20750 S River Road, Dunnellon
5:30 to 7:30pm
Meets the third Wednesday of the month; Agendas, minutes and video are available at dunnellon.org/ government/agendas-minutes
community
DECEMBER
6
Christmas Concert
Ocala-Marion County Veterans Memorial Park, 2601 E Fort King St., Ocala
7 to 8:30pm Featuring nearly a hundred church choir singers and the orchestra of the First Baptist Church, this outdoor concert will be a Christmas celebration and memorial event. This event is free to attend. Hot chocolate and coffee will be served.
DECEMBER 6-7
Holiday Arts & Crafts Show
6455 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Silver Springs
6:30 to 8:30pm
Shopping and more at The Retreat at Silver Springs to get you into the holiday spirit. Local artisans and vendors put up handmade ornaments and special gifts and trinkets, along with music, food and the chance to take pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus. For more information, visit theretreatatsilversprings.org/holiday-arts-crafts
DECEMBER 7
Dunnellon’s Boomtown Pioneer Christmas Parade
Starts at Dunnellon Middle School, 21005 Chestnut St., Dunnellon
6pm The parade route starts at Dunnellon Middle School, traveling from Park Avenue south down Cedar Street to Pennsylvania Avenue, where the parade continues east to San Jose. Learn more at dunnellonchamber.com/ events
DECEMBER 8
Belleview Christmas Parade
Starts at Lake Lillian, SE Robinson Road, Belleview 2pm The parade route starts at Lake Lillian and ends at 110th Street. For more information, go to belleviewchristmasparade.com
DECEMBER 9-10
The Waiting Dark: An Advent Journey Grace Episcopal Church, 503 SE Broadway St., Ocala; Dec. 9, 6pm Joy Lutheran Church, 7045 SW 83rd Place, Ocala, Dec. 10, 6pm Organist Joshua L. Mazur, assistant conductor and organist for the Ocala Symphony Orchestra, leads a rendition of Christmas classics to get you into the holiday spirit. The event is free to attend. Two different shows at separate locations. Learn more at fb.com/joshuamazur
DECEMBER 14
Ocala Christmas Parade
Starts at the intersection of Southeast 25th Avenue and Fort King Street
5:30pm
One of the oldest and largest nighttime Christmas parades in the nation starts at sunset. The route begins at the intersection of Southeast 25th Avenue and Fort King Street, moving north along East Silver Springs Boulevard for 1.6 miles to Northeast 8th Avenue and ending at Tuscawilla Park. Learn more at ocalachristmasparade.org
In this play by Ed Howard, Joe Sears and Jaston Williams, the small town of Tuna, Texas, is ablaze as a mysterious Christmas decoration vandal and unpaid electric bills threaten the town’s production of “A Christmas Carol.” Two actors play all 20 roles. Opening night features special presentation of Drinks with the Director. Tickets can be purchased at the box office, at ocalacivictheatre.org or by calling 352-236-2274.
DECEMBER 6
First Friday Art Walk
Downtown Ocala
6 to 9pm
The event will include a number of artists, live music and more, and the downtown square features thousands of glittering holiday lights. Learn more at ocalafl.gov
DECEMBER 7
Free First Saturday/Holiday Community Day
Appleton Museum, 4333 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala
10am to 5pm
This special iteration of the Free First Saturday will be a celebration of the holiday season. In addition to the “A Dickens Christmas: The Urban Family’s Holiday Exhibition” there will be holiday themed exhibits, an area to meet and take pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus, face painting and on-site food trucks. Visit appletonmuseum.org to learn more.
things to do arts
DECEMBER
6
Ocala Symphony Orchestra: Symphony Under the Lights Tuscawilla Park, 829 NE Sanchez Ave., Ocala
7:30 to 9:30pm
Join the Ocala Symphony and members of the Ocala Youth Symphony for this free outdoor Christmas concert. Presented by Jenkins Auto Group and the city of Ocala, hear Christmas classics under the beautiful and festive setting of Tuscawilla Park. For more information, visit reillyartscenter.com
Sit Down for Stand-up
Marion Theatre, 50 S Magnolia Ave., Ocala
7:30 to 9pm
The monthly comedy show returns to the historic downtown Marion Theatre starring three Florida performers. Headlined by Catherine Maloney, a New York native now based in Tampa, whose credits include the TV series “Snapped,” winner of Biggest Jerk Comedy Contest and 2018 Creative Loafing’s Best Stand Up Comedian, and performances with Jo Koy, Damon Wayans, Gary Owen, Colin Quinn, Tom Green and others. Also featuring Ricky Hicken and hosted by Amanda Hoffman. Tickets are $15 for audience members 21+. Visit reillyartscenter.com for more.
DECEMBER
7-8
Kingdom of the Concert Band: “A Family Christmas”
Marion Technical Institute, 1614 E. Fort King St., Ocala Sat at 2pm; Sun at 3pm
The Kingdom of the Sun Concert Band, under the musical direction of J. Craig Lilly, will present “A Family Christmas” for a series of weekend Christmas concerts. Doors will open 1 hour prior for opening music from the KOS Brass Quintet. Families will have the chance to take pictures with Santa. For more information, call 352-390-0491 or visit kingdomofthesunband.org
DECEMBER
15-17
“The Nutcracker”
Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE Magnolia Ave., Ocala
Showtimes vary
The annual Christmas ballet will once again grace the stage at the Reilly Arts Center. Written in 1892 by the Russian composer Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, many of the songs and images associated with the ballet have become associated with the Christmas holiday itself. In the play, a young girl named Clara saves the Prince, a magical nutcracker doll come to life, who transports her on a journey to the Kingdom of Sweets. Audience members will be able to see these extravagant dances and costumes as the story comes to life in front of their eyes and ears. For tickets and more information, visit reillyartscenter.com
DECEMBER 28
Concert for Good and 5K
5K at Baseline Road Trailhead, 4255 SE 58th Ave., Ocala
Concert at OCT, 4337 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala
5K at 7:30am; Concert at 7:30 pm
The annual Concert For Good returns for a fourth year to raise funds for local nonprofits. Concert organizers say “tis always the season for giving” in the Christmas tradition. The event begins with a community 5K race at the Baseline Road Trailhead. Registration is open now for $35 per registrant, with prices scheduled to increase after Christmas. The concert is an hour and 45-minute show at OCT featuring local musicians. Tickets and 5K spots can be purchased at concertforgood.com
TUESDAY December 10,
Reception: Begins at 5:30 p.m.
Talk:
Why do expensive wearable physiologic monitors fail to deliver on promises that they will improve our health and performance?
Surprisingly, the quality of physiological data from wearable devices such as smart watches is relatively poor - and it worsens when you are sick, active or in extreme environments. While security and privacy constrain sharing and remote analysis of these data, processor cores and batteries limit artificial intelligence algorithms that can be used to analyze data on these devices. Finally, available devices do not provide users actionable information about their health, stress, and recovery when they need it most. Ongoing Department of Defense and industry sponsored research at IHMC is pushing beyond these limitations. We highlight development of technologies such as advanced physiological sensors, tactical noninvasive nerve stimulators, and novel “e-skin” materials that enable us to successfully assess and augment performance in extreme environments.
Dr. Broderick is Chief Science Officer and Senior Research Scientist at IHMC. In these roles, he helps shape research strategy and performs high impact research focused on enhancing human health and performance. He has helped develop advanced biomedical technologies for the Department of Defense, National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), and global medical device companies. Prior to joining IHMC, he was a practicing general, trauma and robotic surgeon. He served within the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) where he established multiple high impact programs focused on precision diagnosis and treatment of disease and injury. He has productively engaged medical and elite operational communities to transition a broad range of technologies including surgical robots, epigenetic diagnostics and wearable devices. Operational certifications and experience have prompted recognition as a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration undersea saturation diver and Honorary NASA Flight Surgeon.
Sudoku By The Mepham Group
Gasoline Alley
Broom Hilda
Châteaux day trips from Paris are a royal treat
Ialways feel like a king when I get to explore the splendid châteaux near Paris. A highlight of one memorable trip was climbing under centuries-old exposed timbers through the attic of Vaux-le-Vicomte before popping out on the rooftop to a view of the spectacular garden.
There are several sumptuous palaces studding the region around Paris. The most famous of these is Versailles, but Vaux-leVicomte, Fontainebleau, and Chantilly also make for worthy day trips.
Most of these châteaux were lavish hunting lodges – getaways from the big city. Insanely extravagant, they were primarily built by kings or bankers and financiers from the courts of those kings. These 17th-century equivalents of today’s hedge-fund managers controlled the workings of the economy and amassed almost unfathomable wealth – which they spent in style.
Versailles is the grandest of these châteaux. Built in the town of Versailles southwest of Paris, about 30 minutes by RER train, it became the residence of the king and the seat of France’s government for a hundred years. Louis XIV moved to Versailles from the royal residence in Paris (today’s Louvre).
The palace houses Louis’ bedroom, a dazzling 700-seat royal opera house, a magnificent throne room with a 10-foot-tall canopied throne, and a royal make-out room in which couples would cavort beneath a ceiling painting of Venus, the goddess of love. In the magnificent 250-foot-long Hall of Mirrors, 17 arched mirrors match the 17 floor-to-ceiling windows providing views to the royal garden. Later, this was the room in which the Treaty of Versailles was signed, ending World War I.
Louis’ pride and joy was a landscaped wonderland dotted with statues and fountains behind the palace. He loved his gardens and threw his biggest parties here. At the far end of the gardens – a good 40-minute walk from the palace – the pastoral Trianon/Domaine area features a fantasy world of palaces and pleasure gardens, providing Louis and his successors with an escape from their escape.
Versailles may be the most historically significant, but Vaux-le-Vicomte, just an hour away by car, is flat-out ravishing, with a harmony of architecture, interior decor, and garden design that’s unrivaled. It gets my vote for the most beautiful château in all of France.
Vaux-le-Vicomte was the home of Nicolas Fouquet, France’s finance minister during the reign of Louis XIV. After attending Fouquet’s château-warming party in 1661, a very young Louis XIV was impressed yet envious. To demonstrate his appreciation, Louis had Fouquet thrown in prison, hired his architect, artist, and landscape designer, and had them build Versailles. The atmosphere of the party is recreated on Saturday evenings in summer, when thousands of candles illuminate the palace while classical music plays in the background.
Compared to Versailles, Vaux-le-Vicomte feels more intimate and, in some ways, more
impressive. Driving up to it, you roll down a peaceful road lined with plane trees, which locals claim were planted by Napoleon so that his armies would have good shade to march under on their long treks across Europe. Vaux-le-Vicomte’s sculpted French garden was cutting-edge for its time and later would be copied in palaces all over Europe. And the palace is better furnished than Versailles, despite the fact that most of the paintings and furniture are not original (Louis confiscated what he liked for his own pad).
While Vaux-le-Vicomte and Versailles are French-designed, the Château of Fontainebleau – about an hour outside of Paris – was created by Italians. But it lacks Versailles’ unity. Originally built in 1528, Fontainebleau features a gangly and confusing series of wings that has grown with centuries of kings. Walking its halls, you can easily track the artistic shift in style, from Renaissance to ornate Rococo to the more sober, postrevolutionary Neoclassical.
As exhibited in its Napoleon I Museum, Fontainebleau has numerous connections to the French emperor. It was here that the pope met Napoleon before the general’s 1804 coronation. And it was from the château’s famous horseshoeshaped staircase that Napoleon gave his stirring abdication speech, trading his rule of France for exile to Elba in 1814.
About a 30-minute drive north of Paris, the extravagant hunting palace of Chantilly floats serenely on a reflecting pond. Though it doesn’t have the well-preserved and grandiose interiors of other châteaux, Chantilly is notable for its impressive art.
After being destroyed during the French Revolution, the châteaux was rebuilt in 1882 by Henri d’Orléans. He later filled it with a fabulous art collection featuring 800 paintings, including works by Raphael, Titian, and Delacroix. His book collection, consisting of more than 15,000 titles, fills the château’s library.
Whether your interest is art, gardens, or pure, over-the-top opulence, a trip to Paris isn’t complete without a dip into the countryside to visit the region’s grand châteaux.
(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.)
AMERICA'S TEST KITCHEN
Treatment-free remission for chronic myeloid leukemia
Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research
DEAR MAYO CLINIC: My 32-year-old daughter was recently diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukemia. It’s a lot to take in. We’ve heard about treatment-free remission. That sounds hopeful. What does that mean? How is it achieved?
ANSWER: It is a lot to take in. Some background information may help you and your daughter understand this diagnosis and potential treatment.
Leukemias are cancers of the blood cells. Chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) is an uncommon type of cancer of the bone marrow, which produces blood cells. “Myelogenous” refers to the type of blood cells this leukemia affects. “Chronic” means this cancer is more slowly progressing than other severe forms of leukemia.
CML is a genetic problem that causes overproduction of a protein that allows some blood cells to grow out of control. But the gene change that causes CML is not hereditary. Parents do not pass the gene to their children.
According to the American Cancer Society, nearly 9,000 people are diagnosed with CML each year in the U.S. This type of leukemia typically affects older adult males, but both men and women can be diagnosed with CML. It is rarely seen in children. Some people with CML may experience symptoms such as bone pain, bleeding easily and feeling full after eating a small amount. But many people do not have symptoms until later stages. It is diagnosed with a blood test.
People first diagnosed with CML likely will begin targeted treatment to eliminate blood cells that are overproducing a protein called tyrosine kinase. Medications called tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) are first-line treatments. Each medication has its own side effects, such as swelling or nausea, that differ for each patient and are discussed in the early stages of choosing treatment. At later stages, other treatments may include chemotherapy or a bone marrow transplant.
Patients we consider for treatment-free remission include those in a low-risk category who take one kind of medication during their treatment course and are in what’s called “molecular remission” for at least two years. Molecular remission means the gene that causes CML cannot be found in the patient’s blood or bone marrow.
During and after treatment, regular tests are necessary to monitor the patient’s blood. When no leukemia is detected, patients may be able to end treatment. Even patients in treatmentfree remission must be monitored regularly, for life, and work closely with a hematologist or oncologist. That means testing monthly, progressing to every other month, then every three months, to every six months.
If a patient were to relapse, the disease would be discovered early, and treatment using the same kind of medication would be resumed. Studies over the last 10 to 15 years have shown when restarting medication early, the chance of achieving remission is almost 100%.
There are certain criteria before stopping TKI treatments. This is important as it affects women and family planning. Managing CML, pregnancy and childbirth is challenging but possible with the help of the health care team.
At Mayo, we started this treatment-free remission approach in 2015. Many patients have been off treatment for years. For more information, visit the CML Patient Education website. — Kebede Begna, M.D., Hematology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota (Mayo Clinic Q & A is an educational resource and doesn’t replace regular medical care. This Mayo Clinic Q&A represents inquiries this healthcare expert has received from patients. For more information, visit www.mayoclinic.org.)
Everyone loves a rich brownie
Sarah Mullins
Cream cheese brownies are an American classic. However, to be done right, the two batters must complement each other rather than compete. We use unsweetened chocolate for a bold chocolate flavor and a cakey brownie batter so the added liquid from the cream cheese filling doesn’t make the brownies soggy or too dense. The addition of sour cream to the cream cheese swirl adds a pleasing tang that complements the brownies’ sweetness.
The usual method of dolloping cream cheese over the brownie batter before swirling delivers a soggy center and dry edges. To ensure even baking and the right balance of cream cheese swirl and chocolate in every bite, we spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the brownie batter and then dollop reserved brownie batter on top before swirling.
CREAM CHEESE BROWNIES
Makes 16 2-inch brownies
For the cream cheese filling:
4 ounces cream cheese, cut into 8 pieces
1/2 cup sour cream
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
For the brownie batter:
2/3 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
4 ounces unsweetened chocolate, chopped fine
8 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 1/4 cups sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1. FOR THE CREAM CHEESE FILLING: Microwave cream cheese until soft, 20 to 30 seconds. Add sour cream, sugar, and flour and whisk to combine. Set aside.
2. Adjust oven rack to middle position and heat oven to 325 degrees. Make a foil sling for an 8-inch square baking pan by folding two long sheets of aluminum foil so each is 8 inches wide. Lay sheets of foil in pan perpendicular to each other, with extra foil hanging over edges of pan. Push foil into corners and up sides of pan, smoothing foil flush to pan. Grease foil.
3. FOR THE BROWNIE BATTER: Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt together in a bowl and set aside. Microwave chocolate and butter in a bowl at 50% power, stirring occasionally, until melted, 1 to 2 minutes.
4. Whisk sugar, eggs, and vanilla together in a medium bowl. Add melted chocolate mixture (do not clean bowl) and whisk until incorporated. Add flour mixture and fold to combine.
5. Transfer 1/2 cup batter to the bowl used to melt the chocolate. Spread remaining batter in the prepared pan. Spread cream cheese filling evenly over batter.
6. Microwave bowl of reserved batter until warm and pourable, 10 to 20 seconds. Using spoon, dollop softened
batter over cream cheese filling, 6 to 8 dollops. Using a knife, swirl batter through cream cheese filling, making a marbled pattern, 10 to 12 strokes, leaving 1/2-inch border around edges.
7. Bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached, 35 to 40 minutes, rotating pan halfway through baking. Let cool in pan on wire rack for 1 hour.
8. Using foil overhang, lift brownies out of pan. Return brownies to a wire rack and let cool completely, about 1 hour. Cut into 2-inch squares and serve.
(For 25 years, home cooks have relied on America’s Test Kitchen for rigorously tested recipes developed by professional test cooks and vetted by 60,000 at-home recipe testers. The family of brands — which includes Cook’s Illustrated and Cook’s Country — offers reliable recipes for cooks of all skill levels. See more online at www.americastestkitchen.com/TCA.)
Napoleon gave his famous abdication speech on the stairs of Fontainebleau, a château bursting with eclectic artistic styles. (Rick Steves, Rick Steves’ Europe).
Sour cream added to the cream cheese swirl complements the brownies’ sweetness. (America’s Test Kitchen/TCA)
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA WEST WIND OAKS HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC., A FLORIDA NOT FOR PROFIT CORPORATION, Plaintiff, VS. CASE NO.: 2024-CA-1421
STEPHEN COOPER AKA THE ESTATE OF STEPHEN COOPER AKA THE UNKNOWN SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, CREDITORS, OR OTHER PARTIES CLAIMING BY, THROUGH, UNDER, OR AGAINST STEPHEN COOPER; AND STEVEN COOPER AKA STEVEN A. COOPER AKA STEVEN ALAN COOPER, Defendant(s) NOTICE OF ACTION-CONSTRUCTIVE
SERVICE TO: STEVEN COOPER AKA STEVEN A. COOPER AKA STEVEN ALAN COOPER; STEPHEN COOPER AKA THE ESTATE OF STEPHEN COOPER AKA THE UNKNOWN SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, CREDITORS, OR OTHER PARTIES CLAIMING BY, THROUGH, UNDER, OR AGAINST STEPHEN COOPER; AND TO ALL PARTIES CLAIMING TO HAVE ANY RIGHT, TITLE OR INTEREST IN THE REAL PROPERTY HEREIN DESCRIBED, TO WIT: YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action to enforce a lien (aka lien foreclosure) on the following property in Marion County, Florida: Lot 7, Block 25, of BAHIA OAKS UNIT NO. FIVE according to the Plat thereof as recorded in Plat Book L, Page 71, of the Public Records of Marion County, Florida. Marion County Property Appraiser Parcel ID No.: 3541-025-007. Physical Address: 6713 SW 64th Court, Ocala, Florida 34476. has been filed against you and you are required to file written defenses with the Clerk of the Court and to serve a copy of your written defenses on Judicious Law, P.A. c/o Bradford J. Tropello, Esq., Attorney for the plaintiff, WEST WIND OAKS HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC., whose address is P.O. Box 369, Ocala, Florida 34478, within thirty (30) days after first publication of this notice, and file the original with the clerk of this court either before service on the Plaintiff's attorney or immediately thereafter; otherwise a default will be entered against you for the relief demanded in the Complaint. WITNESS my hand and seal of this Court this 18TH day of NOVEMBER, 2024. GREGORY C. HARRELL As Clerk of the Court (SEAL)
By: Deputy Clerk CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE I HEREBY CERTIFY that a true and cor-
rect copy of this pleading was furnished via US First Class Mail on this 19th day of November, 2024, to: Stephen Cooper aka The Estate of Stephen Cooper aka The Unknown Spouse, Heirs, Devisees, Grantees, Creditors, or Other Parties Claiming by, Through, Under, or Against Stephen Cooper, 6713 SW 64th Court, Ocala, Florida 34476; and Steven Cooper aka Steven A. Cooper aka Steven Alan Cooper, 6713 SW 64th Court, Ocala, Florida 34476. JUDICIOUS LAW, P.A.
By: Bradford J. Tropello, Esquire Florida Bar No:42694 bit@judiciouslawpa.com ma@judiciouslawpa.com Post Office Box 369 Ocala, Florida 34478 Telephone: (352) 509-5015
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA. IN RE: THE ESTATE OF MILDRED CONWAY, PROBATE DIVISION CASE NO: 2024-CP-2885, Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS The name of the decedent, the designation of the court in which the administration of this estate is pending, and the file number are indicated above. The address of the court is 110 N.W. 1st Avenue, Ocala, FL 34475. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are indicated below. If you have been served with a copy of this notice and you have any claim or demand against the decedent’s estate, even if that claim is unmatured, contingent or unliquidated, you must file your claim with the court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF A DATE THAT IS 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER YOU RECEIVE A COPY OF THIS NOTICE. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons who have claims or demands against the decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, must file their claims with the court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT SO FILED WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. EVEN IF A CLAIM IS NOT BARRED BY THE LIMITATIONS DESCRIBED ABOVE, ALL CLAIMS WHICH HAVE NOT BEEN FILED WILL BE BARRED TWO YEARS AFTER DECEDENT’S DEATH. The date of death of the decedent is: June 17, 2024. The date of first publication of this Notice is November 29, 2024.
Attorney for Personal Representative: James L. Richard Richard & Moses, LLC
Florida Bar No. 243477
808 SE Fort King Street
Ocala, FL 34471 (352) 369-1300
Primary Email: jim@rmprobate.com
Personal Representative: COLLEEN CONWAY
6853 Alta Westgate Drive, Apt #2102 Orlando, FL 32818
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
The Ocala City Council has introduced the following ordinance(s) and will consider its adoption at the regular meeting to be held on Tuesday, December 17, 2024 at 4:00 p.m. in City Hall, 2nd Floor, Council Chamber, 110 SE Watula Avenue, Ocala, Florida. Interested parties are invited to appear at the meeting and be heard with respect to the proposed legislation. Copies of the proposed documents may be inspected in advance at the office of the City Clerk, Ocala City Hall.
Any person who decides to appeal any decision of the Ocala City Council with respect to any matter considered at this meeting will need a record of the proceedings, and for such purposes, may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made.
If reasonable accommodations are needed for you to participate in this meeting, please call 48 hours in advance so arrangements can be made through the City Clerk’s office at 352-629-8266.
ORDINANCE 2025-10
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE ZONING MAP OF THE CITY OF OCALA, FLORIDA, CHANGING FROM R-1, SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL, TO B-2, COMMUNITY BUSINESS, FOR CERTAIN PROPERTY LOCATED GENERALLY LOCATED IN THE 20003000 BLOCK OF NW 35TH AVENUE ROAD, APPROXIMATELY 660-FEET NORTHWEST OF THE INTERSECTION OF NW 35TH AVENUE ROAD AND NW 21ST STREET (PARCEL NO. 21466000-00), APPROXIMATELY 15.00 ACRES (CASE NO. ZON24-45826); PROVIDING DIRECTION TO STAFF; REPEALING INCONSISTENT AND/ OR CONFLICTING PROVISIONS; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY OF ORDINANCE PROVISIONS; PROVIDING FOR MODIFICATIONS ARISING FROM CONSIDERATIONS AT A PUBLIC HEARING; PROVIDING DIRECTION TO THE CODIFIER; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE
ORDINANCE 2025-12
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE FUTURE LAND USE MAP SERIES OF THE CITY OF OCALA, FLORIDA, COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AS REQUIRED IN SECTION 163.3161 THROUGH AND INCLUDING SECTION 163.3248, FLORIDA STATUTES; DETAILING THE FUTURE LAND USE CHANGE (CASE NO. LUC24-45821) INVOLVED AND TO AMEND THE FUTURE LAND USE MAP SERIES FROM COMMERCIAL (COUNTY) TO MEDIUM INTENSITY/ SPECIAL DISTRICT (CITY) FOR PROPERTY LOCATED AT 4001 NW BLITCHTON ROAD (PARCEL NUMBER 21537-002-00), APPROXIMATELY 1.29
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA
IN RE: ESTATE OF PROBATE DIVISION
CAROL AVILES File No. 24CP002954AX
Deceased. Division Probate
NOTICE TO CREDITORS (Summary Administration) TO ALL PERSONS HAVING CLAIMS OR DEMANDS AGAINST THIS ESTATE:
ACRES; PROVIDING DIRECTION TO STAFF; REPEALING INCONSISTENT AND/OR CONFLICTING PROVISIONS; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY OF ORDINANCE PROVISIONS; PROVIDING FOR MODIFICATIONS ARISING FROM CONSIDERATION AT A PUBLIC HEARING; PROVIDING DIRECTION TO THE CODIFIER; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
ORDINANCE 2025-13
IN THE COUNTY COURT OF THE FIFTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 24CC000553AX
Filing # 211939829 E-Filed 12/02/2024 11:14:52 AM RAINBOW SPRINGS ASSOCIATION, INC., PROPERTY OWNERS a Florida non-profit Corporation, Plaintiff, VS. PASFIELD; FRANCES LOBIANCODAVID PASFIELD, et al., Defendant(s). IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 5TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO. 24CA000734AX AMENDED NOTICE OF SALE PURSUANT TO CHAPTER 45 (To be published in The Ocala Gazette) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to Final Judgment of Foreclosure dated November 13, 2024, entered in Case No. 24CA000734AX in the Circuit Court in and for Marion County, Florida wherein RAINBOW SPRINGS PROPERTY OWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC., is Plaintiff, and DAVID PASFIELD; FRANCES LOBIANCO-PASFIELD, et al, is the Defendant, I will sell to the highest and best bidder for cash online on: JANUARY 7, 2025 at www.marion.realforeclose.com the Clerk's website for online auctions at 11:00 AM ET in accordance with section 45.031, Florida Statutes, the following described real property as set forth in the Final Judgment, to wit: LOT 6, BLOCK 6, RAINBOW SPRINGS, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF, AS RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK "P", PAGES 10 THROUGH 29, PUBLIC RECORDS OF MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA. A/K/A: BLK 6 LOT 6, DUNNELLON, FL 34432. ANY PERSON CLAIMING AN INTEREST IN THE SURPLUS FROM THE SALE, IF ANY, OTHER THAN THE PROPERTY OWNER AS OF THE DATE OF THE LIS PENDENS MUST FILE A CLAIM BEFORE THE CLERK REPORTS THE SURPLUS AS UNCLAIMED. Dated this 2nd day of December, 2024. DAVID PASFIELD 185 YOUMANS RD WELLS BRIDGE, NY 13859 FRANCES LOBIANCO-PASFIELD 185 YOUMANS RD WELLS BRIDGE, NY 13859 SERVICE LIST Florida Community Law Group, P.L. Attorneys for Plaintiff P.O. Box 292965 Davie, FL 33329-2965 Telephone (954) 372-5298 Facsimile (866) 424-5348 /s/ Jared Block Jared Block, Esq. Fla. Bar No. 90297 Email: Jared@flclg.com PUBLISH IN: THE OCALA GAZETTE CASE NO. 24CA000734AX IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA. IN RE: THE ESTATE OF JIMMY A. SANCHEZ, Deceased. CASE NO: 2024-CP-2794 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
You are notified that an Order of Summary Administration has been entered in the estate of CAROL AVILES, deceased, File Number 24CP002954AX, by the Circuit Court for MARION County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 110 NW 1st Ave, Room 202, Ocala, FL 34475; that the decedent’s date of death was October 17, 2024; that the total value of all non-exempt assets of the estate is $26,525.28, and that the names and address of those to whom it has been assigned by such order are:
Name Address Michelle Superville 135-12 233rd Street Rosedale, NY 11422
ALL INTERESTED PERSONS ARE NOTIFIED THAT:
All creditors of the estate of the decedent and persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent other than those for whom provision for full payment was made in the Order of Summary Administration must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE. ALL CLAIMS AND DEMANDS NOT SO FILED WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING ANY OTHER APPLICABLE TIME PERIOD, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT'S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.
The date of first publication of this notice is December 6, 2024.
/s/ James M. Flick James M. Flick Florida Bar Number: 91075 Christian Bonta Florida Bar Number: 1010347 WALKER | FLICK 3700 S. Conway Road, Suite 212 Orlando, FL 32812 Telephone: (407) 745-0609 Service E-Mail Addresses: james@thefloridalawyers.com christian@thefloridalawyers.com kflick@thefloridalawyers.com service@thefloridalawyers.com Attorneys for Petitioner
MEADOWS AT HEATH BROOK HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC., a Florida not-for-profit corporation, Plaintiff, vs. ROSEMOND GOMEZ-JOSEPH, individually; JOMARY GOMEZ-JOSEPH, individually; and ISPC, INC. Defendants. /
NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE
NOTICE is hereby given pursuant to a Summary Final Judgment of Foreclosure and Award of Attorneys Fees and Costs, dated November 15, 2024, and entered in Case Number: 24CC000553AX , of the County Court in and for Marion County, Florida, wherein MEADOWS AT HEATH BROOK HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION , INC. is the Plaintiff, and ROSEMOND GOMEZ-JOSEPH, individually; JOMARY GOMEZ-JOSEPH, individually; and ISPC, INC is the Defendant, the Marion County Clerk of the Court will sell to the highest and best bidder for cash, by electronic sale on-line at www.marion.realforeclose. com , beginning at 11:00 o’clock A.M. on the 16th day of January, 2025 the following described property as set forth in said Summary Final Judgment of Foreclosure and Award of Attorneys Fees and Costs, to-wit:
Property Description : Lot 71, Meadows at Heath Brook Phase 1, according to the plat thereof as recorded in Plat Book 10, Pages 177 through 180, inclusive, of the Public Records of Marion County, Florida.
If you are person with a disability who needs any accommodation in order to participate in this proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance. Please contact Tameka Gordon, the ADA Coordinator at the Office of the Trial Court Administrator, Marion County Judicial Center, 110 NW First Avenue, Ocala, Florida 34475, Telephone (352) 401-6710, at least 7 days before your scheduled court appearance, or immediately upon receiving notification if the time before the scheduled appearance in less than 7 days; if you are hearing or voice impaired, call 711.
/s/Rebecca Blechman
Helena G. Malchow Florida Bar No.: 0968323 Eryn M. McConnell Florida Bar No.: 0018858
Toby Snively Florida Bar No.: 0125998
DI MASI || BURTON, P.A.
801 N. Orange Avenue, Suite 500 Orlando, Florida 32801
Ph. (407) 839-3383 Fx. (407) 839-3384
Certificate of Service
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE ZONING MAP OF THE CITY OF OCALA, FLORIDA, CHANGING FROM B-2, COMMUNITY BUSINESS (COUNTY), TO B-2, COMMUNITY BUSINESS (CITY), FOR THE PROPERTY LOCATED AT 4001 NW BLITCHTON ROAD (PARCEL 21537-002-00), APPROXIMATELY 1.29 ACRES (CASE NO. ZON24-45822); PROVIDING DIRECTION TO STAFF; REPEALING INCONSISTENT AND/ OR CONFLICTING PROVISIONS; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY OF ORDINANCE PROVISIONS; PROVIDING FOR MODIFICATIONS ARISING FROM CONSIDERATIONS AT A PUBLIC HEARING; PROVIDING DIRECTION TO THE CODIFIER; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
ORDINANCE 2025-14
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE ZONING MAP OF THE CITY OF OCALA, FLORIDA, CHANGING FROM R-1, SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL, TO R-3, MULTI-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL, FOR THE PROPERTIES LOCATED APPROXIMATELY 900FEET NORTHWEST OF THE INTERSECTION AT SW COLLEGE ROAD AND SW 20TH COURT (PARCEL 23553-003-00)(PARCEL 23561000-00), APPROXIMATELY 15.46 ACRES (CASE NO. ZON24-45672);
PROVIDING DIRECTION TO STAFF; REPEALING INCONSISTENT AND/ OR CONFLICTING PROVISIONS; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY OF ORDINANCE PROVISIONS; PROVIDING FOR MODIFICATIONS ARISING FROM CONSIDERATIONS AT A PUBLIC HEARING; PROVIDING DIRECTION TO THE CODIFIER; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
I HEREBY CERTIFY that a true and correct copy of the foregoing has been furnished via U.S. Mail to the following this 2nd day of December, 2024.
Rosemond Gomez-Josephs 6048 SW 49th Avenue
Ocala, FL 34474
Jomary Gomez-Joseph 6048 SW 49th Avenue
Ocala, FL 34474
ISPC, Inc. c/o Sean P. Belmudez Esq., as Registered Agent fc-ispc@theispc.com sbelmudez@theispc.com
/s/ Rebecca Blechman
Rebecca Blechman, Esq.
NOTICE IS HERBY GIVEN that Rickie Jacobs residing at 16821 SW 25th Terrace Rd Ocala Fl 34473 , intends to register and conduct business under the fictitious name of Rottweiler Music located at 16821 SW 25th Terrace Rd Ocala Florida. This notice is filed pursuant to Chapter 865.09, Florida Statutes.
NOTICE UNDER FICTITIOUS NAME LAW PURSUANT TO SECTION 865.09, FLORIDA STATUTES NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Edward Porter will engage in business under the fictitious name INTERSPACIAL, with a physical address 2925 N.W. 4th Av,Ocala, Florida 33475 with a mailing address 6814 SE 230TH ST.HAWTHORNE, FL 32640 and already registered the name mentioned above with the Florida Department of State, Division of Corporations.
BOWEN|SCHROTH
Notice Public Notice
NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION File No. 24-CP-002712-AX IN RE: ESTATE OF BARBARA ANN BANOFF, Deceased
The administration of the estate of Barbara Ann Banoff, deceased, whose date of death was September 21, 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for Marion County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is: 110 NW 1st Ave #1, Ocala, Florida 34471 . The names and addresses of the personal representatives and the personal representatives' attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent's estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM.
All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent's estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE.
ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE WILL BE FOREVER BARRED.
NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT'S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.
A personal representative or curator has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent's death by the decedent or the decedent's surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in sections 732.216-732.228, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under section 732.2211.
The date of first publication of this notice is November 29, 2024.
Personal Representative: David Banoff 2640 Alida Street Oakland, California 94602
Attorney for Personal Representative CATHERINE E. BLACKBURN Florida Bar Number: 940569
BLACKBURN LAW FIRM, PLLC 5230 Central Avenue St. Petersburg, FL 33707 Telephone: (727) 826-0923
E-Mail: Cathy@lifeplanlaw.com
Americans spend less time outside home post-COVID-19, UCLA study reveals
By Jasmin Jose Stacker
Americans spend less time outside home post-COVID-19, UCLA study reveals Arecent study by the University of California, Los Angeles indicates that Americans are spending more time inside their homes and far less time outside. The LA Post provides details.
Other studies—like a survey conducted by the Bureau of Labor Statistics—indicate that this could be a post-COVID-19 phenomenon. At the same time, there are studies that also suggest that Americans were spending more time alone even before the pandemic.
A study published on Oct.
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA IN RE: ESTATE OF BARBARA LEONA FLEMING a/k/a BARBARA FLEMING, DECEASED, CASE NO.: 2024-CP-2641 NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of Barbara Leona Fleming a/k/a Barbara Fleming, deceased, whose date of death was March 21, 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for Marion County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is, 110 NW 1st Ave., Ocala, Florida 34475. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative's attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent's estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent's estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE WILL BE FOREVER BARRED.
Atty for Personal Representative
Daniel J. Raymer, Esq. The Florida Legal Advocacy Group, P.A.
445 NE 8th Ave. Ocala, Florida 34470 Florida Bar No.: 1025085
352-732-8030 Telephone
888-399-3129 Facsimile dr@FlagOcala.com Personal Representative Oneal Hagan 9893 Riverwood Court, Douglasville, GA 30135
CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA IN RE: FORFEITURE Case Number: 2024-CA-1313 $6,436.93 (Six Thousand, Four Hundred Thirty-Six Dollars and Ninety-Three Cents) in U. S. Currency TO: STEVEN MCDUFFIE Last known address:26 Water Track Ct, Ocala, FL 34472 YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that a forfeiture action has been filed against the above described currency by the City of Ocala, Ocala Police Department. You are required to file an answer and any written defenses with the Clerk of the Court and to serve a copy of the answer and defenses on or before January 16, 2025, on Kristi Van Vleet, Assistant General Counsel, City of Ocala, Ocala Police Department, 110 SE Watula Ave, Ocala, FL 34471. Failure to file your answer and defenses will result a default being entered against you. WITNESSED by hand and the Seal of the Court on this 2nd day of December 2024. Gregory C. Harrell, Clerk of Court.
30 by Brian D. Taylor and Sam Speroni of the UCLA Institute of Transportation Studies and Eric A. Morris of Clemson University revealed that people are spending almost an hour less outside their homes each day compared to 2019. People are also reducing travel time by about 12 minutes daily.
The team delved into the American Time Use Survey data, which is collected by the federal government. They examined how over 30,000 people spent their days from 2019 to 2023, excluding 2020. They omitted 2020 due to the COVID-19 disrupted data gathering that year. Taylor and his colleagues believe this new homebody lifestyle is here to stay, as a side effect of the COVID-19 pandemic. They're advocating
for a fresh look at how cities are planned and moves are made.
About 22 million people worked from home in 2023, according to a Pew Research Center survey. About 39% of people across the country have jobs that allow employees to work from home, at least part of the time. With more people working from home, UCLA researchers say it's time to rethink how office and store spaces are used. They suggest relaxing restrictions on converting commercial buildings to housing and increasing curb space for delivery vehicles.
Morris pointed out that COVID-19 just accelerated changes that were already happening, like more online shopping and remote work. He thinks our cities and transportation need to catch up
with these shifts. This study could mean significant changes for how people build cities, run buses and trains, and use commercial buildings. Additionally, the authorities might need to rethink their long-term plans for roads, buildings, and zoning laws.
While it's clear that daily routines have changed, the researchers say more information is needed to truly understand how this affects health, social lives, and the economy.
On the other hand, another study done by Patrick Sharkey, a professor of sociology and public affairs at Princeton, indicated that the time spent by Americans at home increased by one hour and 39 minutes a day, or 10%, from 2003 through 2022. It's a trend that rose sharply during
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
the pandemic and had yet to return to more typical levels by 2022. Sharkey seemed to suggest that Americans preferred staying indoors even before the first stay-at-home orders were enacted.
In his influential 2000 book, "Bowling Alone: The Collapse and Revival of American Community," political scientist Robert D. Putnam investigated this trend. He posited that Americans had exchanged their social institutions, including churches, social clubs, and bowling leagues, for social isolation, which had negative repercussions for society.
As per Sharkey's research, people who were employed exhibited a significant increase in the amount of time they spent at home, as did those with higher incomes and levels of education.
The Ocala City Council has introduced the following ordinance(s) and will consider its adoption at the regular meeting to be held on Tuesday, December 17, 2024 at 4:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber of City Hall, 110 SE Watula Avenue, Ocala Interested parties are invited to appear at the meeting and be heard with respect to the proposed legislation Copies of the proposed documents may be inspected in advance at the office of the City Clerk, Ocala City Hall.
Any person who decides to appeal any decision of the Ocala City Council with respect to any matter considered at this meeting will need a record of the proceedings, and for such purposes, may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made.
If reasonable accommodations are needed for you to participate in this meeting, please call 48 hours in advance so arrangements can be made through the City Clerk’s office at 352-629-8266
Ordinance 2025-11
Case ANX24-45820
Petitioner: C.L.D. Properties, LTD
Agent: Tracy Rains, Dinkins Realty LLC
Request to annex approximately 1.29 acres
AN ORDINANCE ANNEXING TO THE CITY OF OCALA, FLORIDA CERTAIN PROPERTY LOCATED AT 4001 NW BLITCHTON ROAD (PARCEL NUMBER 21537-002-00), APPROXIMATELY 1.29 ACRES (ANX24-45820), MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA, PURSUANT TO CHAPTER 171, FLORIDA STATUTES, PROVIDING FOR TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF SAID ANNEXATION, DESCRIBING THE AREA TO BE ANNEXED; PROVIDING DIRECTION TO STAFF; REPEALING INCONSISTENT AND/OR CONFLICTING PROVISIONS; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY OF ORDINANCE PROVISIONS; PROVIDING FOR MODIFICATIONS ARISING FROM CONSIDERATION AT A PUBLIC HEARING; PROVIDING DIRECTION TO THE CODIFIER; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
Nominations open for annual awards
The Community Foundation for Ocala/Marion County invites people to nominate “unsung heroes.”
Staff report
Through Feb. 1, 2025, members of the community can nominate someone to be recognized during the Community Foundation for Ocala/Marion County’s annual Inspire Gala.
“We invite you to shine a spotlight on the unsung heroes in our community who have made a significant impact. Whether it's through tireless volunteer work, innovative projects, or inspiring leadership, we want to recognize those who make Ocala/ Marion a better place for us all,” foundation officials noted in the news release.
These are the nomination categories:
•Youth Philanthropist of The Year
•Emerging Nonprofit
•Nonprofit Board Member of The Year
•Nonprofit of The Year
•Corporate Partner of The Year
•The Unsung Hero
•Philanthropist of The Year
Award nominations will be sent to a community foundation outside of Marion County for voting. Nominees will have their names redacted and will be assigned a number to ensure voting is based on merit and their contributions to the community
through their dedication, time and resources to create a better Marion County, the release stated. To access the nomination form, go to ocalafoundation.org/inspiregala
Submit nominations by Feb. 1 to Ashley Gerds at ashley@ ocalafoundation.org or drop off a sealed envelope at The Community Foundation for Ocala/Marion, 324 SE 24th St., Ocala.
The 2025 Inspire Gala, with the theme Lisbon Luminance – A Night in Portugal, will be held March 8 at the Circle Square Cultural Center. RSVP to Gerds by calling (352) 622-5020, ext. 105.
Continued from page B1
“of the extent to which investors are participating in the market. Investors are far more likely to have the funds to purchase a home available up front, whereas the typical homebuyer requires a mortgage or some other form of financing.”
TOWNHOMES/CONDOS MARKET SECTOR
Locally, the market area of Ocala/Marion County townhouses and condos median sales prices came in at $220,000, an increase of 24.8% from October 2023. A total of 51 closed sales were reported. Statewide, townhouses and condos median price was $315,000, a decrease of 2.2% from last October. The active inventory is 61,427, a 52.2% increase from October 2023. Overall, this segment of the real estate market is
moving toward less activity.
"Townhouse and condo sales were down more significantly," O'Connor said, "by nearly 20%, but that was in line with the trend of the prior two months as well. New listings of townhouses and condos, meanwhile, were down about 9.5% compared to a year ago, but are still up 12% for the year. Granted, the rate of new listings coming onto the market was already slowing ahead of the storms, but the year over year declines in October were a sizable jump and very likely related to the unique pattern of events that unfolded throughout the month."
Existing townhouse and condo properties statewide were at a 7.7-months’ supply, an increase of 37.4% over October of 2023.
For townhomes and condos, the number of cash sales statewide was 3,072 a decrease of 29.1% from October 2023. Those sales represented just over 47% of the total market.
Continued from page B1
hole, it is important to empty the tray beneath it once the plant has drained. It is not good for the plant to sit in stagnant water. If you’re displaying the plant in the foil-wrapped pot it came in, simply poke a few holes in the bottom and place the pot in a tray so it can drain. Don’t fertilize the plant while there are still flowers blooming. If you plan to keep the plant in hopes of it blossoming again next year, you can fertilize it once all of the petals have dropped.
Place the poinsettia near a window that is in bright but indirect light. It’s also important to put the plant in an area that doesn’t shift much in temperature. For example, a cold windowsill, a warm radiator or heat vent can all damage the leaves and cause them to fall off. Though these plants are at their peak in the wintertime, they’re very sensitive to cold air.
DECORATING WITH POINSETTIAS
There are many ways to display your poinsettia in interesting ways to enhance the beauty of the plant. Here are some ideas:
•Combine your poinsettia in a basket with other plants. A poinsettia joined with other plants can make an interesting basket. Adding a bow makes it extra special.
•Spray glitter on the leaves to dress up your poinsettia. Glitter is a beautiful way to dress up your poinsettias. A light spray of gold or red glitter on red poinsettia leaves can elevate them. Don’t go overboard with glitter but do add some to leaves and bracts. The “flowers” are colored “leaves” called bracts.
•Wrap the poinsettia pots with metallic foil, ribbon and a bow. Look for metallic, shiny foil in bright red, green, gold, silver and white. After covering the pot, wrap them in seasonal colored ribbon, such as plaid or red velvet and top it off by adding a lush bow. Experiment with curly ribbon for a firework burst of color that you can drape over the pot’s rim. For a fancy look, spray a few ribbon curls lightly with glitter.
•Decorate the pot with a beaded garland. Instead of wrapping the pot with foil, you can decorate it with a garland. Choose a tinsel garland or use a beaded, jeweled or permanent flower garland. Spray adhesive to the outside of the regular poinsettia container and then wrap strings of the garland around the pot.
Poinsettias are lovely and speak of holidays all on their own or dressed up. Use your imagination to decorate your plants to fit in with your Christmas décor or to give as a gift.
To learn about the Pioneer Garden Club, go to bit.ly/4igSzAU
Frank DeLuca, president and owner of DeLuca Toyota, right, and his grandson, Christian, pose with the Frank Hennessey Legacy Award during the Community Foundation for Ocala/ Marion County Inspire Gala in Ocala on March 1, 2024. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette]
Large red poinsettia with ribbon. [Photo courtesy teleflora.com]
