Local bipartisan opposition forms against FL Sen. McClain’s SB1118
The crux of the opposition is maintaining “home rule” and a desire to preserve Marion’s farmland.
By Jennifer Hunt Murty Jennifer@ocalagazette.com
In response to what some call an “attack” on home rule, local bipartisan opposition has formed against Senate Bill 1118 filed by State Sen. Stan McClain, R-Marion, and its identical House Bill 1209 filed by Rep. Kevin Steele, R-Pasco. The bills would wrest
Diane Gullett resigns as MCPS superintendent
In her five-year tenure, the county public schools’ leader navigated reinstituting impact fees and a half-cent sales tax, and challenges building new schools.
By Caroline Brauchler caroline@ocalagazette.com
Marion County Public Schools Superintendent Diane Gullet has announced she is resigning after five years in office. She said she will be leaving after the end of her contract, on July 11.
Gullet, who earned her doctorate in educational leadership from the University of Central Florida and a bachelor’s in elementary education from the University of Florida, previously served as an administrator in Orange County Public Schools for 19 years.
“It has been my privilege to lead with such an exceptional team and I am proud of the work we have accomplished to set our district on a path for future success that out students, employees and community deserves,” Gullet wrote in her resignation letter to the school
See Diane Gullett, page A3
local control of development from cities and counties across the state and open up hundreds of thousands of agricultural acres to developers without review from local governments. If passed, the new laws would supersede any local overlay zones of protection, including Marion County’s revered Farmland Preservation Area.
The bill language only provides for protection of state-mandated protection
areas and lists two: “The Wekiva Study Area, as described in s. 369.316; or 2. The Everglades Protection Area, as defined in s.169 373.4592(2).”
The bills propose no restrictions on minimum lot size and assume that maximum densities per any current land development code would be automatically put into effect. The city of Ocala and the Marion County Board of County
Commissioners would lose their authority to restrict the number of units per acre in a housing project.
There was still no analysis associated with either bill as of March 12. McClain’s bill has been introduced however, and it has been forwarded to the Community Affairs committee, on which he sits.
See Local bipartisan opposition page A9
Family seeks answers in the death of 39-year-old inmate
of force led to hospitalization.
By Jennifer & Caroline
Jacob Oakie, 39, of Ocala, died last year in the custody of the Marion County Sheriff’s Office after developing pneumococcal meningitis. He was delivered by EMS from the jail’s infirmary run by Heart of Florida to Adventhealth ICU by local EMS.
Two hours before his hospital transport, records show MCSO staff had pepper sprayed Oakie in the infirmary, then “decontaminated” him in the shower.
Oakie was treated for respiratory problems and brain swelling at the hospital, according to MCSO records.
Within hours of hearing of Oakie’s condition on a Friday evening, his mother and brother flew thousands of miles from Arizona to the Ocala hospital. Within 48 hours, they would have to make the painful decision to remove him from life support.
“He was unconscious and chained to the bed when we got there. Still, depending on which deputy was on duty we were only allowed in the room with him 30 minutes a day. So, we watched Jacob from the glass wall of the ICU. The doctors and nurses really fought for us to be there, and I’m grateful to them for that because the sheriff’s office treated me and my mother like we were criminals,” said brother Dennis Oakie. cerated use
Dennis Oakie said the family had tried to help Jacob battle his addiction, sometimes flying him to Arizona for treatment, but Jacob kept falling back into his addiction.
Oakie spoke to his mother nearly every day in jail, so when five days went by without hearing from him, the family grew concerned.
“He kept complaining of an earache
and that he couldn’t get treatment for the pain. All of those calls were recorded, aren’t they? If you can get copies of those calls, you’ll get an idea of how long he was without care,” Dennis Oakie suggested to the Gazette.
Dennis Oakie said the family was not told until the “Gazette” shared MCSO records with them that Jacob had been pepper sprayed and subject to force from prison guards shortly before being delivered to the hospital.Oakie began showing signs of the deadly disease a month after being incarcerated on June 20, 2024, but was only treated for “a common cold,’’ records show. Those treatments began on July 19, and he died 9 days later after his mother and brother traveled from Arizona and gave consent to remove him from a ventilator.
See Inmate, page A2
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Marilyn Oakie is shown with her late son, Jacob Oakie, who died from meningitis on July 28, 2024, in the custody of the Marion County Sheriff’s Office [Supplied photo].
Superintendent of Marion County Public Schools Diane Gullett speaks during the Howard Academy Community Center Black History Museum Archives Gala at the Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place in Ocala, Fla. on Friday, Feb. 23, 2024, during which many principals and assistance principals were honored. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2024.
Inmate
Continued from page A1
Oakie’s death is the latest in a series of incidents that raises concerns about the quality of care inmates at the county facility receive. The MCSO, which operates the jail, has reported 29 deaths at the facility from 2021 to 2024.
The “Gazette” reviewed various incident records authored by different MCSO staff to build a timeline of Oakie’s incarceration and ultimate death.
Meningitis is a “potentially fatal” medical emergency that requires immediate care at a hospital, with risk of death within 24 hours, according to the World Health Organization.
“Even with proper diagnosis and treatment, up to 1 in 5 people who develop this condition will die. Long-term health problems occur in around 20% of people who survive pneumococcal meningitis. These problems include brain damage, deafness, learning disabilities, paralysis,” according to Healthline. “Because this disease is so dangerous, it’s very important to go to the doctor right away if you suspect you have it.”
Oakie was in the jail infirmary on July 23 and refused his breakfast tray, according to one report. Another report, from July 26, noted that Oakie was still in the infirmary and was verbally upset. At approximately 5 a.m., detention worker Nicole Custodio ordered Oakie to stop yelling profanities.
“I ordered him to stop, and he refused,” according to her report. “I ordered him to turn around and submit to hand restraints in order to counsel with him or he would be pepper sprayed, and he refused. I opened the cell door and applied a burst of pepper gel to his facial area and ordered him to submit to hand restraints, he refused. I closed the cell door and called for backup and a supervision on the infirmary’s base station radio. Deputy Gordon and Deputy Ivoino responded and placed him in hand restraints.”
Custodio said Oakie was escorted to the shower for “decontamination” and was placed in the shower for approximately 16 minutes, according to the report. Custodio said Oakie was “evaluated by Nurse Younes and no injuries were noted. He was placed back in his cell without incident.”
Less than two hours later, according to another incident report authored by Cpl. Sandra Denardis, Charge Nurse Ramos informed Denardis that Oakie needed to be treated at a hospital.
Marion County Fire Rescue EMS transported Oakie to AdventHealth Ocala where he was treated for respiratory failure and meningitis, which led to brain swelling, according to a report by MCSO Master Cpl. Matthew Bowers, who spoke to hospital nurses and doctors who treated Oakie.
“Ms. Oakie indicated she had been in contact with the medical examiner’s office and was aware of the pneumococcal meningitis being the cause of death. I advised her this case was being concluded but to contact me in the future if she had any further questions or concerns,” Bowers wrote.
Bowers acknowledged he did a web search of symptoms associated with pneumococcal meningitis and they were evidenced in jail records in the days leading up to Oakie’s transport to the hospital.
Bowers noted the medical examiner had “no concerns from the pepper gel use of force” as related to the cause of Oakie’s death.
Bowers wrote that he watched the video of the incident at the jail to understand the use of force on Oakie. He said the video does not have audio and does not include
the inside of the cell to show what happened when two detention deputies entered it and came out a few moments later escorting the decedent to the shower after he’d been sprayed with pepper spray.
The use of force the day Oakie was transported to the hospital was not mentioned in the two-page MCSO death-incustody report sent to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.
“An investigation into the incident revealed that the inmate had been receiving treatment in the infirmary for an altered mental state,” the report states.
“A decision was made by medical staff to transport him to a local hospital by ambulance for further treatment. The inmate ultimately was removed from life support at the request of his family. The cause of death was determined to be natural, caused by Pneumococcal Meningitis.”
Per MCSO policy No. 6570, Sheriff Billy Woods decides whether a death in custody is investigated by FDLE. Deaths involving use of force are required to be investigated further. No further investigation was conducted.
Oakie’s death was not investigated by the State Attorney’s Office, which indicates its office has only investigated three of the 29 deaths at the jail. One of those cases involves inmate Scott Whitley, a 47-year-old diagnosed schizophrenic who died on Nov. 25, 2022, after detention deputies restrained and shocked him with a Taser 27 times in 12 minutes.
The medical examiner ruled Whitley’s death a homicide, and his family pursued legal action against the MCSO. The “Gazette,” which has been reporting on the issues surrounding inmate care, has sued the MCSO to obtain surveillance video from Whitley’s cell on the day he died.
In its lawsuit against MCSO to obtain the footage from Whitley’s cell, the “Gazette” argued that good cause was present to release the video and provide it to the public for viewing.
The “Gazette” has asked MCSO to view the video of the altercation between jail staff and Oakie the day he was delivered to the hospital. The request has been denied. The “Gazette” asked MCSO if it would agree to an order if a complaint was filed seeking permission.
MCSO General Counsel Marissa Duquette refused, saying good cause “is absent in this case.”
MCSO maintains that “good cause” must be shown to overcome facility security exemptions, primarily that it would serve public interest, which the court found to be the case in the Whitley suit.
The “Gazette” responded by email, “Jacob Oakie was subject to a use of force two hours before he was delivered to ICU at AdventHealth, septic, after being neglected for at least a week in the infirmary for something that should have been treated aggressively with antibiotics. He died two days after being delivered to the hospital. He was 39 years old. I think the public would disagree about what they do and do not have interest in.”
Duquette responded curtly— ”Hello! I do not mind if you disagree.”
On behalf of his family, Oakie’s brother Dennis wrote a letter to MCSO on March 7 requesting to see the video of the use of force incident.
“I would like to obtain the video of use of force used against my brother, Jacob, on July 26th, 2024, hours before he was taken by ambulance from the Marion County Jail to the Advent Health Hospital in Ocala, Florida,” he wrote. “Additionally, I would like to request that the video be made public and that the Ocala Gazette be allowed to watch the video.”
Oakie’s death was not disclosed to the “Gazette” in October 2024,
when it requested all death-incustody reports from 2019 until the date of request. The “Gazette” learned of Oakie’s death through Death in Custody Reporting Act records filed to FDLE, provided by MCSO.
When the “Gazette” asked why the incident report on Oakie’s death was not given with its original request, an MCSO records clerk said she was “not sure why” that record was not provided.
Heart of Florida, the medical provider for the jail, said it cannot answer questions about specific inmate care. This included for inwuiries about when they diagnosed Oakie with meningitis and why there was a delay in getting Oakie admitted to the hospital, at least a week after he presented with symptoms, according to MCSO records.
As previously reported, a nurse whistleblower, Mary Coy, who provided oversight to Heart of Florida’s compliance with medical jail standards, was fired by the MCSO one month after Oakie died. She has filed a lawsuit against MCSO for retaliation.
Heart of Florida maintains they meet medical standards outlined in Florida’s model jail standards, regardless of what Coy’s reports indicate. CEO Matt Clay indicated he was unaware of how high the death count was at Marion County jail compared to state prisons in Marion County until the Gazette provided the numbers.
In a letter dated Nov. 4, 2022, obtained by the “Gazette,” Heart of Florida Chief Healthcare Administrator John Pearson wrote that he believed Coy was interfering with Heart of Florida staff’s medical directives for inmate care. Pearson wrote that Coy “complained” to the medical director, Dr. Jose Rafael Rodriguez, and questioned Rodriguez’s treatment plan for an asthmatic inmate.
Rodriguez has been practicing medicine in Florida since 2014 under an Area of Critical Need Medical Doctor license that must be renewed annually by Florida Department of Health. According to his licensure information with the state of Florida, Rodriguez was formerly licensed in Puerto Rico from 2002 until 2016. He earned his medical degree from the Universidad Autónoma de Guadalajara.
Rodriguez previously worked at the Lowell Correctional Institute from 2015 until 2021.
During the time when oversaw medical care at Lowell, the Miami Herald and later the Department of Justice investigated the facility for lack of medical care, unusually high cases of rape, and death due to lack of medical care.
In 2022, Rodriguez took over as the medical director for Marion County and Sumter County jails under a Heart of Florida contract.
The “Gazette” requested data on any deaths in custody of the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office. The FDLE said it didn’t have any reports from that agency within the past five years in part because SCSO hadn’t applied for federal grants through their office, which would have required such a report.
The “Gazette” requested internal records of deaths in custody from SCSO in November 2024, and the agency responded it would not be able to access or provide records indefinitely.
“The Sumter County Sheriff’s Office experienced a Ransomware attack on August 2024. Due to the attack, we have limited access to our network and electronic records. We are diligently working on restoration,” said SCSO.
Upon reiterating this request over a month later, the “Gazette” was told by the agency that its network and electronic records were still down. SCSO said it would complete the request when its server is restored but provided no indication of when this would happen.
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Longtime local veterans services advocate is retiring
Jeffrey Askew has served for 23 years as director of the Marion County Veterans Service
By Andy Fillmore andy@ocalagazette.com
Jeffrey Askew, director of the Marion County Veterans Service Office, will retire on March 14 after 23 years of helping improve the lives of local veterans and their families.
Askew said one of the most significant accomplishments of the office has been assisting veterans in obtaining about $10 million annually in Veterans Administration benefits, for example disability, educational and survivor benefits. He said the office “advocates” for veterans and their families at no charge.
“The MCVSO is not the VA, and we want veterans to know we’re in their corner and we do the red tape,” Askew said.
Askew was honored by member of the Marion County Board of County Commissioners during their March 4 regular meeting.
“Askew has tirelessly advocated for and supported our local veterans for over two decades,” said board chair Kathy Bryant.
Bryant praised Askew’s dedication, leadership, impact and involvement in many projects in the veterans’ community and how he “touched countless lives.”
“His legacy will live on,” she said.
Askew pointed to helping surviving widows of veterans as his most satisfying accomplishment in his remarks to the MCBCC and also in a recent interview. He said he gave talks about survivor benefits to educate people about how to navigate the system.
Diane Gullett
Continued from page A1
board.
“Family members have left in tears when they get help from the survivor benefits,” he said.
Askew said during the MCBCC meeting that he didn’t want to leave but after nearly five decades of governmental service it was “time to turn the page and let the young people take over.”
Askew, 66, is a native of Tuscaloosa, Alabama. He joined the U.S. Navy right out of high school in 1977 and served until 1999. His primary military occupations were in command and control, overseeing ship movement, aircraft and personnel.
He served on the aircraft carriers USS Coral Sea and USS Lexington, and traveled to locations including Sicily, Hong Kong, Australia, Japan and Korea, and the Suez Canal. He served on the destroyer USS
Gullet was the district’s first appointed superintendent. She was appointed in July of 2020 during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic and served through a period of unprecedented student population growth in MCPS.
One of Gullet’s first actions as superintendent was getting county-wide voluntary pre-kindergarten at every school in the district.
“Throughout my tenure, I have been truly blessed to work alongside dedicated educators, staff students and families,” she wrote. “The commitment to fostering a high-quality and safe working environment has been both inspiring and humbling.”
From 2020 until the present, the student population of MCPS has grown from about 41,000 to now more than 45,600 students enrolled in the district. From 2014 to 2024, the school district grew by 9%, according to MCPS officials.
With many of the district’s schools reaching or exceeding capacity, Gullet and the school board were tasked with generating revenue to pay for building
O’Bannon, which carried the American flag in NATO exercises in South America in 1984 and 1985, and was onboard the aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower when the ship was the first on station on Aug. 5, 1990, for the start of Operation Desert Storm and Operation Desert Shield.
“When I joined the Navy, it was, ‘See the world,’” he said.
Askew served at the Pinecastle Bombing Range in east Marion County from 1996 to 1999 and after his service there hired on with Marion County in 2000 in the human resources department. He met the former Marion County Veterans Service Office director while in the HR department and decided to pursue the director’s position when that person retired. Askew started in the
veterans service office in 2002.
Esther Gomez, staff assistant at the office since 2011, described Askew’s “big smile” and stated that, “It’s been a great experience working with Jeffrey,” in an email.
Askew also oversees the Ocala-Marion County Memorial Veterans Park which, in partnership with the nonprofit Friends of Marion County’s Veteran Park Foundation, has grown to house an array of monuments and displays and serves as a significant venue for community events.
The park also includes a Veterans Exhibition and Education center, which features rooms with educational displays about America’s wars. That center is inside the building that formerly housed the Marion County Veterans Service Office
new schools and adding wings to existing schools to remedy overcrowding, particularly in the southwest area of the county.
Gullet’s tenure brough in massive changes to the status quo—including reinstating impact fees after 13 years of suspension and bringing back the half-cent sales tax after voters said yes to funding school capital projects in the 2024 election.
The Marion County Board of County Commissioners approved the reinstatement of impact fees in March of 2024—one-time payments made by developers for each new home built to support the cost of building new schools. The county suspended impact fees in 2011 during the economic recession.
Gullet, the school board and school district staff worked on finding a way to reinstate the fees since May 2022, when
and prior to that a Florida Highway Patrol office. The Marion County Veterans Service Office is inside the Marion County Veteran Resource Center at 2730 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala. The MCVSO can help residents obtain VA benefits including compensation, pensions, health care, education, death and burial benefits, and in replacing lost medals. At this time, no one has been named to replace Askew. The service office director’s position will be posted by Marion County as they seek to fill the position, officials said.
For more information, call (352) 671-8423 or go to marionfl.org/agenciesdepartments/departmentsfacilities-offices/veteransservices
the school board was presented with updated statistics on student population growth and many schools’ issues with reaching capacity due to lack of space.
School impact fees and the half-cent surtax will aid in funding a great need for more schools as the district seeks to build five new schools and nine new wings at a cost of $1.8 billion over the next 13 years. Making such large strides toward building new schools was not always smooth sailing—Gullet navigated a very public conflict with school board member Sarah James during the procurement process for the future new high school in southwest Marion County.
In April of 2024, a district selection committee chose Wharton-Smith Inc. as the winning bidder for the $120 million contract to build a high school in Marion Oaks. In the days and weeks following, 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 and issuing threats to school district staff, another board member and Gullett. An external investigation by the GrayRobinson law firm substantiated the allegations. With Gullet’s resignation, the school board now has until July to find a new superintendent.
Diane Gullett, the superintendent of Marion County Public Schools, speaks during a groundbreaking ceremony for a new elementary school that will be built at Winding Oaks Farm off Southwest 49th Avenue Road
photo by Bruce Ackerman
John Earl plays “Amazing Grace” on the bagpipes as Jeffrey Askew, the director of Marion County Veterans Services, holds one of the pipes during the 9/11 Memorial Service at the Ocala/Marion County Veterans Memorial Park in Ocala, Fla. on Wednesday, Sept. 11, 2024.
[File photo by Bruce Ackerman]
Jeffrey Askew, director of the Marion County Veterans Service Office, is shown in his office on March 11, 2025. He is retiring on March 14 after more than decades of service.
[Photo by Andy Fillmore]
Ocala street to bear name honoring Whitfield Jenkins
By Caroline Brauchler caroline@ocalagazette.com
The city of Ocala approved a change in name for a portion of Northwest 24th Road to bear the name “Whitfield Jenkins Road,” in honor of the longtime resident and his work in civil rights activism.
Whitfield Jenkins, 85, is a threetime president of the Marion County NAACP, served in philanthropy leadership and has been a strong community member of the city of Ocala for over 50 years.
The Ocala City Council approved the honorary designation of Northwest 24th Road, from Northwest 20th Street to Northwest 21st Avenue, at its March 4 meeting. Among attendees present was former Gainesville official Rodney Long, joined by Jenkins’ wife Loretta Pompey-Jenkins. Jenkins himself could not attend the meeting because he was in the hospital.
“It’s fitting and it’s well deserved. I might be a little biased, but I feel like it’s well deserved, and I do appreciate and thank you all very, very much,” Pompey-Jenkins said on behalf of her husband.
Long is a longtime friend of Jenkins and is also a former secretary of the Alachua County branch of
the NAACP. He also is a former Gainesville City Commission and Alachua County Commission member.
“We go back quite some time,” Long told the council. “I’m here to stand in support of the street naming for my good friend and a person who’s done great work in this city and this county—Whitfield Jenkins.”
Long said the pair met about 47 years ago, while long served on the board of the Alachua County NAACP while Jenkins served as the Marion County NAACP president at the same time.
“I think it’s a very fitting tribute for a person who’s giving back so much to this community,” Long said.
Jenkins is a 1959 graduate of the historic Fessenden High School, which now serves as Fessenden Elementary School. Jenkins then earned his bachelor’s degree at Florida A&M University, where he played on the football team and won two National Negro National Championships in 1959 and 1961.
Jenkins earned a master’s degree in criminal justice from Rollins College. He went on to work for the Florida Department of Corrections at Lowell for nearly 30 years, from 1972 until 2000. Jenkins was also a longtime teacher in Marion County Public Schools and an adjunct professor at the College of Central Florida.
More details about the three dogs shot and killed by OPD
By Jennifer Hunt Murty jennifer@ocalagazette.com
The Ocala Police Department has initiated an internal investigation into a Jan. 20 service call that ended with three dogs shot dead and two homes on the same street in the Bellechase neighborhood struck by bullets from two OPD officers.
Those two officers, one with 5 years of experience and another in training have both been disciplined following internal investigations by the Ocala Police Department.
OPD has been slow to provide any records on the incident until March 12, 2025, when it held a press conference, but even as this article is sent to print, there are outstanding records requests to Ocala Police Department and Marion County Animal Control.
The dogs’ owners--Bryan Strawn and his wife, Annie, who live in an adjacent neighborhood were heartbroken by the incident.
Bryan Strawn told the “Gazette” the three dogs were American and English Staffordshire mix and were not yet a year old. “They were murdered because they assumed the breed and age and assumed they were aggressive,” he said. “Only because of the breed they were murdered.”
According to officer statements, OPD Officers J. McCurdy and J. Wood responded to a request by Marion County Animal Control to do a wellness check in the early morning hours of Jan. 20 on a man named Ross Moes, who had called the agency about “five aggressive pit bull dogs” and who was no longer answering his phone.
“Around 12:30 a.m., I let my dog out my back lanai to pee,” Moes wrote in an animal control incident report. “I opened the door and she stopped and immediately ran back in. I noticed the three pit bulls running right at me. I slammed the screen door and 1 of the dogs hit it. I stepped and closed the sliders. The dogs did not leave, so about 10 minutes later I called 911.”
The officers’ statements indicate they arrived in the Bellechase neighborhood around 3:15 a.m. and were given permission by Moes to enter his home. “I entered Moes’ residence and followed him to his back door where I observed three pit bulls aggressively barking and scratching at the screen trying to enter the patio,” McCurdy said in his statement.
“Moes stated prior to calling he was in his backyard when he heard the three dogs barking and approaching him. Moes stated the dogs came for him, so he quickly returned inside his patio. Moes stated the dogs nearly bit him before he was able to get inside,” the statement reads.
About 40 minutes later, according to the statement, the officers saw the dogs move to the front of the house so they followed and observed the dogs in a nearby street intersection within view of the house. The officers warned an early morning jogger to go away.
During that interaction, Woods wrote, “I looked around the corner and observed the dogs approaching me and Officer McCurdy. I drew my department-issued firearm and faced the dogs, who were now running toward me. The dogs did not stop, and I discharged my department-issued firearm into the gray dog.”
Woods indicated that when he was shooting the dog “two bullets and/or bullet fragments” struck the garage door, and two others struck the wall to the right side of the door.
McCurdy’s statement read similarly.
“The dogs turned to face me, so I drew my department firearm and faced them,” he wrote. “The three dogs began running toward me and Officer Woods. The three dogs did not stop, so I discharged my firearm into the tan dog, followed by the gray dog and the black dog.”
The wounded black dog ran between two houses to the backyard. McCurdy wrote that he reloaded and fired more shots before the black dog fell to the ground. After following McCurdy to the backyard, Woods wrote that he also “discharged my firearm into the black dog.”
McCurdy estimates, “in total, I fired 25 rounds. Officer Woods fired a total of six rounds.”
According to a Marion County Animal Control incident report authored by Sharon Beardsley, she received a call from the OPD officers around 3:40 a.m. and heard dogs in the background. At 4:22 a.m., she wrote, she was told by dispatch that the dogs had been shot.
Beardsley’s statement said she arrived on scene at 4:40 a.m. and spoke with the two officers who shot the dogs as well as Sgt. Joe Tussey. “They felt it was necessary to act at the time due to the behavior of the dogs,” she wrote in her report.
Beardsley recounted a conversation with Annie Strawn, one of the owners of the dogs.
“We tried to explain that unfortunately had the dogs not been loose, the incident may not have occurred. Mrs. Annie stated they are dogs and dogs get loose and she and her husband work over 40 hours and have secured the fence all they can,” according to the report.
According to the Animal Control record, the dogs--Blue, Chewer and Runner—were taken to a UF Veterinary College Forensic Lab for a necropsy. The procedure was performed on Feb. 4, and authoritires could not release their bodies to the owners before then.
The Strawns are anxious to see the body camera footage from both officers who shot their dogs and any information about the jogger whom officers worried was threatened.
The “Gazette” asked Chief Michael Balken to view the body camera footage and additional officer statements. Still, he indicated they would not be released for another two weeks when the investigation was concluded.
Two Bellechase residents are negotiating with the city of Ocala to be reimbursed for damages to their home and a vehicle.
The Strawns indicate they are hiring legal counsel.
From left, Barbara Brooks, Loretta Pompey-Jenkins and Whitfield Jenkins are shown at the Heritage Trail Park ribbon cutting ceremony on West Silver Springs Boulevard in Ocala on Sept. 3, 2024. The park includes a plaque in honor of Whitfield Jenkins. [File photo by Bruce Ackerman]
Equine majesty and skill on display
By Susan Smiley-Height susan@magnoliamediaco.com
If you have never seen Chester Weber and other four-in-hand drivers navigate challenging twists, turns and water hazards, now is your chance.
The annual Live Oak International, the nation’s largest combined driving and show jumping competition, will
take place March 13 through 16 at Live Oak Stud, west of Ocala at 2215 SW 110th Ave.
Throughout the weekend, the sprawling campus will be filled with horses, riders, drivers, vendors and spectators—and, on Saturday only, the famous Budweiser Clydesdales.
“We’re thrilled to have the Budweiser Clydesdales back at Live Oak International this year,” said Chloe D. Reid, co-president
of Live Oak International, in a news release. “These horses are truly majestic and seeing the Budweiser hitch in action is something that everyone should come out to see. It’s a spectacular experience like no other and a real treat for our guests.”
Chester Weber, one of the winningest drivers of all time, also is co-president of the event, with his niece Chloe Reid and his sister Juliet W. Reid.
The competition hosts the U.S. Equestrian Federation combined driving national championships as well as the final leg of the qualifier for the Longines FEI World Cup Jumping North American League.
The event website notes that new this year, the Ocala Dog Ranch will be showcasing talented dogs that leap, swim and retrieve in competitions like
the Horizon jump, Velocity speed swim and Eclipse toy retrieval. Gates open at 8 a.m. daily. There are options for general admission tickets, VIP experiences and tailgating.
To learn more, go to liveoakinternational.com
Chester Weber drives through the fountain hazard in the FEI3 Horse Team class in the Marathon during Live Oak International at Live Oak Plantation in Ocala, Fla. on Saturday, March 16, 2024. People sit by the fountain hazard to watch the Marathon during Live Oak International on March 16, 2024.
Photos by Bruce Ackerman
Temple B’nai Darom welcomes new cantor and spiritual leader
Alisa Forman comes from a long line of “very learned and serious rabbis.”
By Marian Rizzo Special to the Gazette
Alisa Forman was 27 years old when she stepped out in faith and pursued a career that in the early days of Judaism was dominated by men.
A graduate of Hebrew Union College with a Doctor of Ministry degree in sacred music, Forman is now the cantor and spiritual leader at Temple B’Nai Darom in west Ocala. She replaced Rabbi Harold S. Jaye, who retired last summer for personal reasons. The congregation held a special gathering to welcome Forman and people from Congregation Beth Shalom in Beverly Hills, where Forman previously served as cantor, also attended.
It seems the die was cast long ago for Forman, who can trace her rabbinic lineage back to the 1500’s.
“My great-grandfather was the chief orthodox rabbi in Cincinnati,” Forman said. “And my great-uncle was a professor of Hebrew at the Hebrew Union College. We call it ‘yichus,’ which means coming from a family of similar occupations. I come from a family of very learned and serious rabbis.”
Forman’s father is a retired Reform rabbi, and her sister and brother also are rabbis in the Reform Movement. She had an uncle who was a Conservative rabbi and a cousin who is currently a Conservative rabbi.
Though originally accepted at Hebrew Union College for rabbinical training, Forman began to have second thoughts.
“I began to think, ‘Is this the right career for me?’” she recalled. “I decided to defer acceptance. I was a teacher of English as a second language and then I picked up little jobs at synagogues, teaching bar mitzvah kids after school. I was teaching music in religious schools since I was 16. I was always doing services with my father. It was a big part of our lives. When I realized I could do the music, I decided I wanted to be a cantor. It was a natural career choice.”
According to the Women Cantors’ Network, women began serving as cantors near the end of the 19th Century, but it wasn’t until the 1970’s that women were ordained as cantors and then as rabbis.
Through a series of events, Forman entered the Reform Movement’s Cantorial School and was invested in 2003, joining 65 percent of the 500 members who are women in the American Conference of Cantors.
“The class I ended up graduating with was all females,” she said. She started her career as an associate cantor at a large synagogue in Cherry
Hill, New Jersey. More recently, she served as cantor for six years at Congregation Beth Shalom, until membership declined due to financial
reasons, she said.
Forman, who also plays the guitar, said she wants to bring a joyful experience to prayer and worship. She tends to be less formal and does not plan to wear the traditional white robes except during High Holy Day services in October. She said she wants her services to have a lighter, more joyful atmosphere.
“I think as a cantor I bring a very different approach—joy and trying to communicate through the music,” she said. “There’s such joy for me in the music and communicating that to the parishioners. That’s a sign I’m on the right track if people get up and move.”
Howard Shiner, president of Temple B’nai Darom, described the transition from Rabbi Jaye to Cantor Alisa as a bitter-sweet experience. While it was sad to see Jaye retire, it was a blessing to find a replacement so quickly, Shiner said, adding that there were no other candidates.
“Alisa is going to be a great fit,” said Shiner. “We saw her online. We had a committee that was looking for another spiritual leader and we found her, and we went after her. Alisa will be her own person. We knew of her history, and where she comes from. She comes from a family of rabbis. A cantor does a lot more singing; a rabbi does a lot more teaching. She will do both.”
At Jaye’s departure, the congregation awarded him rabbi emeritus standing.
“I do feel blessed,” said Jaye, who served there for 37 years. “I had one conversation with Cantor Forman on the phone. I told her to go slowly. Like I was told by my senior rabbi when I was in grad school, if you’re going to make changes, do it incrementally, slowly. Make little changes, not all at once. That’s what I told her.
“The gender doesn’t matter that much,” Jaye added. “Our liberal movement accepts women in that position. It’s more of a generational thing. There are going to be differences, specifically in style. Her worship style is different, the music is more folksy, but she does put in a prayer.”
Services at Temple B’nai Darom alternate weekly on Fridays and Saturdays. There is a Zoom link to participate online.
For more information, call (914) 4825326 or visit templebnaidarom.org
dventHealth Ocala has announced that is has been recognized as one of America’s Best Hospitals for Minimally Invasive Surgery by the Women’s Choice Award. The award signifies that AdventHealth Ocala is in the top 9% of 4,675 U.S. hospitals reviewed. Minimally invasive
surgery has become the standard of care for many surgical procedures as a safer, less invasive and more effective option to open surgery. It minimizes risks to the patient by reducing the size of incisions, which has benefits including shorter hospital stays (if needed), fewer complications, faster recovery and reduced
pain, scarring and costs, the news release noted.
“We are honored to receive this recognition, which highlights the outstanding dedication and skill that our staff and providers bring to those who live and visit our community,” AdventHealth Ocala President and CEO Erika Skula said in the release.
Cantor Alisa Forman poses with the Torah at Temple B’nai Darom on Southwest 38th Street in Ocala, Fla. on Saturday, March 7, 2025.
Cantor Alisa Forman plays guitar and says she wants her services to have a lighter, more joyful atmosphere.
Photos by Bruce Ackerman
Frank DeLuca retires
The longtime owner of DeLuca Toyota was feted during a recent celebration in honor of his 46 years in business.
By Susan Smiley-Height susan@magnoliamediaco.com
Last week was a busy and fulfilling one for Frank DeLuca.
On March 7, the longtime owner of the DeLuca Toyota dealership was feted with a retirement party at the Country Club of Ocala, with vintage autos on display, along with cut-out images of a younger Frank.
The next evening, during the elegant Inspire Gala at the Circle Square Cultural Center, he was recognized at the Philanthropist of the Year by the Community Foundation for Ocala/Marion County and shared the Frank Hennessey Legacy Award with another noted local philanthropist, Stan Hanson.
DeLuca, who was raised in Orlando, said his first act of charitable giving was when he was 17 and was involved in a high school Civitan Club, selling fruit cakes to raise money for local charities. That also was when he started working as a weekend auto detailer for a dealership owned by a friend’s father. He continued to work in the business through and after college, excelling as a sales representative, sales manager, financial services manager and general manager.
Since opening DeLuca Toyota in Ocala in 1978, he has been a member of the National Automobile Dealers Association, past director of the Florida Automobile Dealers Association and Dealer Council representative of Southeast Toyota Distributors, Inc. He is a five-time recipient of the Toyota President’s Award and has received the J.D. Power Certified Retailer Award. In late 2024, he sold the dealership to the Gettel Automotive Group.
The ”Gazette” asked DeLuca how it felt after 46 years to sign the documents to sell the dealership.
“I always realized that there would be a time to retire from the automotive business; I had talked with my wife, Angela, for a few years, and we felt that 2024 was the right time,” he said.
“I want to thank the community and many loyal generations of past customers for allowing DeLuca Toyota to have a significant impact on our community for 46 great years. Finding the right new owner to hand over the responsibility of serving our community was essential and I am confident that Gettel Automotive Group will do a fantastic job,” he added.
In addition to being a
business leader all those years, DeLuca also is a noted supporter of a wide variety of community organizations, including many nonprofits, to which he has donated more than $14 million. Among the most notable are gifts of $1,000,000 each that allowed for expansions of the Frank DeLuca Family YMCA and the adjacent Sportsplex. He continues to donate over $10,000 annually to fund YMCA scholarships.
In 2022, his donation of $250,000 contributed to an expansion at the Reilly Arts Center that introduced new classrooms for the Community Music Conservatory, a black box theater and a new lobby named in his honor. In 2024, Habitat for Humanity of Marion County completed the construction of a 17 th home with funds from DeLuca, bringing his total donations to the nonprofit to more than $650,000.
For the past six years, including 2024, the DeLuca dealership partnered with Orlando NBC affiliate WESH 2 and Second Harvest Food Bank to support the Share Your Christmas campaign, with donations of more than 60,000 meals to families, children and seniors in Marion County, and financial contributions exceeding $60,000. He has given more than $130,000 to Boys & Girls Club of Marion County programs that help children build character, succeed academically and adopt healthy lifestyles.
“From the early days, I understood that giving back to the community through various philanthropic organizations would be my guiding principle. I am proud of the way we were able to serve the automotive needs of our community. Still, I am even more proud of our impact on people’s
lives by supporting various philanthropic causes,” DeLuca told the “Gazette.” “Over the years, we have supported many causes. Giving back is a defining legacy I am very proud of.”
Now that he is retired as a businessman, we asked DeLuca if he would “retire” from his philanthropic endeavors as well.
“Angela and I are learning how to balance our professional and retired lives with our community involvement. We both found that we try to give of our resources and share our time, talent and love for our community. We will try to make Ocala/Marion County a better place because of our philanthropic efforts and concern for our community. We encourage other businesses to get involved as often and frequently as possible in giving back to your community,” he said.
“Frank’s greatest legacy in Ocala is a blend of his entrepreneurial success, which has brought economic prosperity, and his profound philanthropy, which has touched numerous aspects of our Ocala community. His passion for everything Ocala is impressive, and I admire all he has done in the past and all he will continue to do for many more years to come. His legacy is
one of leadership, generosity and a deep commitment to making the DeLuca difference in our community,” Angela offered.
Frank Hennessey, during the Inspire Gala, told those gathered that Frank DeLuca’s legacy “will continue to inspire future generations to give back and make a difference in the lives of others.”
“So many things make him an incredible, dynamic person. He has an immense amount of gratitude for our community, his customers over the past 46 years, and all of the employees of DeLuca Toyota. I love that he always felt his success was directly related to those he surrounded himself with,” Angela added.
She also noted that her husband “is the most gentle, kind and caring man I have ever met. He enjoys upscale dining, fine wines, sorbet for dessert and loves when we meet someone and they have a story about the Toyota they purchased from him. I am very proud to be his partner and the one to share the next chapter. I am grateful for the man he is,” she continued.
The two are avid travelers and plan to continue that tradition, along with boating and skiing.
“We want to spend more time traveling during this season of our lives. I have always enjoyed spending quality time at the dealership, and I am now looking forward to being able to enjoy this next chapter and retirement. One of our favorite pastimes is boating. We enjoy travelling to exotic destinations in our boat, Nauti Lady. I have been an avid snow skier for the past 50 years and have enjoyed sharing this with Angela,” Frank said.
“Frank and I both love to travel and are blessed to have been many fantastic exotic places. We have a few new adventures lined up and will continue to explore new destinations in the future. We are also looking forward to more time on our boat,” Angela offered.
As for what is his favorite thing about Ocala/Marion County, Frank expressed: “It’s the people that make the difference. For me, Marion County will always be my home. Watching our community grow for 50 years from a small town to a vibrant growing Ocala/Marion will always be very special.”
To learn more, find DeLuca Difference on Facebook
Frank DeLuca gets a hug from Olga Alvarez as John Alvarez congratulates him during DeLuca’s retirement party at the Country Club of Ocala on Friday, March 7, 2025.
A 1976 Toyota Celica GT and 1967 Toyota Land Cruiser were on display at the event.
Tables were decorated with place settings and party favors showing Frank DeLuca through the years.
Frank and Angela DeLuca pose for a photo during the party.
Frank DeLuca shares a moment with Father Patrick Sheedy.
Frank DeLuca, right, talks with Jim and Jeanne Henningsen during his retirement party.
Photos by Bruce Ackerman
Lawmakers OK change to defamation law
By Dara Kam Florida News Service
TALLAHASSEE — A state Senate panel on Wednesday gave initial approval to a proposal that would change the state’s defamation laws, with critics of the measure calling it unconstitutional, vague and “counterproductive.”
The proposal, sponsored by Sen. Corey Simon, R-Tallahassee, seeks to require newspapers and broadcast stations to remove false and defamatory articles and broadcasts from their websites after receiving notice that the stories aren’t true.
The bill (SB 752), approved by the Senate Judiciary Committee, is rooted in coverage of a Miami man who was arrested after being accused of molesting a child at a pool party. Prosecutors later dropped charges against the man, who was awarded damages by a jury after filing a defamation lawsuit against relatives of the child.
Barry Richard, an attorney who represents the man, told the committee that two of three television stations took down stories from their websites depicting the oncesuccessful businessman captured on camera shackled and clad in an orange jumpsuit during an initial court appearance in 2017. The third station had a policy not to remove stories from its website, according to Richard.
The experience ruined the man’s life, Richard said. Job interviews have been canceled, his wife and children have left the country and his children were asked to leave the private school they attended, Richard said.
“This shouldn’t happen,” Richard, a prominent Tallahassee lawyer who said he previously represented the Florida Press Association for two decades, told the Senate panel.
“The media receives a privilege none of us have,” Richard argued, adding that material can “stay up forever” on news outlets’ websites. “How does that make sense? Why should they be able to keep it up forever, knowing that it’s false? It just makes no sense, and it can destroy people’s lives.”
But Sam Morley, general counsel of the Florida Press Association, said a better approach would be to require publishers to update stories to include corrections to original posts.
“This way, the public has access to both the correction and the story, as opposed to forcing total erasure of the story from the internet,” Morley said.
The proposal centers on what is known as the “fair reporting privilege” that protects media outlets from being sued for defamation when they publish accurate accounts of information or data contained in official documents or statements.
Simon’s bill would remove the protection against defamation lawsuits for media outlets if they have been notified that a statement published on the internet has been found in a judicial proceeding to be false or if they receive “notice of facts that would cause a reasonable person to conclude that such a statement was false” and they fail to remove the story “from any website” the outlet controls.
Attorneys for media outlets said that part of the bill is too vague.
“What specific facts would be considered sufficient to meet this reasonable test? How would the publisher know what is reasonable, what is not? They would probably have to err on the side of removing the information if the story is largely accurate,” Morley said.
James Lake, an attorney who practices defamation law, told the committee that the measure would lead to entire articles being removed “if one sentence is disputed.”
“That’s not only overly broad, unconstitutional, it’s counterproductive, because in the situation where subsequent events have changed a story, perhaps with an acquittal, the person who’s the subject of that story would benefit from a correction or an update being published,” Lake said.
Lake, who told the Senate panel he is a Republican, warned that the bill runs counter to GOP lawmakers’ recent efforts to curb lawsuits.
“This is going to be used to punish conservative speech,” he said.
Sen. Tom Leek, R-Ormond Beach, praised the bill, saying changes to the state’s defamation standards are overdue. He pointed to a change in the bill Wednesday to limit media outlets’ obligation to remove posts to websites they control. An original version of the bill would have removed the privilege protection if stories were allowed to remain on the internet, which Leek called “an important distinction.”
“The media outlet doesn’t have control over the internet, which is why this bill is limited to them taking it down over things that they have control of, which is the website. It creates an affirmative duty to take it down, but only if you know it’s wrong and it’s false, and that’s that’s the right thing to do,” Leek said.
Sen. Rosalind Osgood, D-Fort Lauderdale, also supported the measure.
“A lot of times as elected officials, people think that they can just say what they want to say … and drag you and nothing is done about it. And it hurts your kids, it hurts your reputation,” she said. “I think that we have to begin to do something about the defamation and the, just, outright lies. We have to have a freedom of speech, but it needs to be with integrity.”
But Sen. Tina Polsky, D-Boca Raton, said the bill goes too far.
The circumstances involving Richard’s client were “ugly and unfortunate,” Polsky, a lawyer, said.
“It doesn’t take away the fact that it happened, and that’s what news is,” said Polsky, who was one of two committee members who voted against the measure. “I think it’s just clunky, and it doesn’t make a lot of sense, and there’s so much attack on (the) media now, because of our president, because of our governor. There are lawsuits left and right against very valid news organizations, and this is only going to feed into that frenzy.”
Simon, however, said people like the Miami man can be stigmatized permanently for something they didn’t do.
“I think our media should be held to a standard that, when we get it wrong, most of them should say they got it wrong,” Simon said. “Unfortunately, that’s not what happened here. They wouldn’t even print the retraction that they got it wrong. They just left up the story, and it’s created this stigma that this person will have to deal with for a lifetime.”
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION
IN RE: ESTATE OF PEDRO J. MARTINEZ, Deceased. FILE NO.: 2025-CP-538 NOTICE TO CREDITORS
(Summary Administration)
The administration of the estate of PEDRO J. MARTINEZ, deceased, whose date of death was June 22, 2023; is pending in the Circuit Court of Marion County, Florida, Probate Division; File Number 2025-CP538; the address of which is 110 N.W. 1st Avenue, Ocala, Florida 34475. An Order of Summary Administration was entered on February 26, 2025, and the name and address of the person assigned control of the assets is GILBERTO MARTINEZ, 1909 S.E. 29th Place, Ocala, Florida 34471 , the son of the decedent, and his attorney is Davis R. Watson III, Davis R. Watson III, P.A., 2201 S.E. 30th Avenue, Suite 202, Ocala, Florida 34471. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, on whom a copy of this notice is served must file their claims with this Court WITHIN THE LATER OF THREE MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR THIRTY DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons who have claims or demands against the decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, must file their claims with this court, WITHIN THREE (3) MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT SO FILED WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. THE DATE OF FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE IS MARCH 7, 2025.
Attorney for Petitioner: DAVIS R. WATSON III Florida Bar No.: 117996 DAVIS R. WATSON III, P.A.
2201 S. E. 30th Avenue Suite 202 Ocala, Florida 34471 (352) 732-8080 Email: davis@daviswatsonlaw.com
Filing # 218028107 E-Filed 03/04/2025 01:10:12 PM IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE FIFTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA
JORDAN TUR, individually and as Personal Representative of the Estate of Shawnee Jean March- Barris, V. Plaintiff, AMANDA GRACE THOMPSON, an individual, Defendant.
Case No.: 422024CA000803CAAXMX NOTICE OF ACTION
TO: AMANDA GRACE THOMPSON
YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action to quiet title on the following described property in Marion County, Florida: Lot 12, Block V, Rainbow Springs Country Club Estates First Replat, according to the map or plat thereof, as recorded in Plat Book Z, Pages(s) 51 through 54, inclusive, of the Public Records of Marion County, Florida. commonly known as 19051 SW 91ST LANE, DUNNELLON, FLORIDA 33432 has been filed against you in this court. You are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, on Brandon M. Hale, Esq., Plaintiff's Counsel, whose address is 311 South Second Street, Suite 200, Fort Pierce, FL 34950, 30 days from the date of first publication of this Notice of Action, whichever is later, and file the original of the written defenses with the clerk of this court either before service or immediately thereafter; otherwise a default will be entered against you for the relief demanded in the complaint. Dated this March 4, 2025 Date of Publication: March 14, 2025 GREGORY C. HARRELL Clerk of the Circuit Court
By:H. Bibb, As Deputy Clerk Electronically Filed Marion Case # 24CA000803AX 02/07/2025 03:20:06 PM
Big fun at The Big Cheese
The inaugural fundraising event benefitted the Arnette House.
By Susan Smiley-Height susan@magnoliamediaco.com
It was the cheesiest event ever—in a really good way. The Ocala Business Leaders group hosted The Big Cheese macaroni and grilled cheese cookoff at Midtown Station on March 8. The event was sponsored by Phillips Ocala, with proceeds to benefit the nonprofit Arnett House, which offers support to youth and their families.
Midtown Station, at 235 NE Watula Ave., Ocala, is one of the area’s newest dining outlets, with a variety of options and great views of Tuscawilla Park.
Winners of the cookoff were: Mac and Cheese Judges Choice – from first to third place, Arnette House, Infinite Kitchen and D’s Comfort Food Grilled Cheese Judges Choice – from first to third place, Sipping Grounds, Southern Side Chicks and Walt’s Tire People’s Choice: Mac and Cheese - Infinite Kitchen; Grilled Cheese - Southern Side Chicks
the Circuit Court for Marion County, Florida, Probate Division; the address of which is Clerk of the Circuit Court, Marion County, Probate Division, 110 NW 1st Ave, Ocala, Florida 34475. The name and address 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 the decedent's estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, on whom a copy of this notice has been served must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE LATER OF THREE (3) MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF T NOTICE OR THIRTY (30) DAYS AFTER THE TIME OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent's estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE.
ALL CLAIMS NOT FILEDWITHIN 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 BARRED. FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT'S DATE OF DEATH.
The date of first publication of this notice is March 14th, 2025. Attorney for Personal Representative
Personal Representative kristie puentes Kristie Puentes, Esq.
Attorney for Personal Representative Florida Bar No. 91050 Estevez Law Group 1930 Harrison St, #203 Hollywood, FL 33020 Telephone: (754) 209-7766
Fax: (305) 504-8494
Email: kristie@estevezlawgroup.com
Maria Padilla Personal Representative 10970 SW 156th Place Dunnellon, FL 34432
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA. IN RE: THE ESTATE OF YOKO M. HAMILTON, Deceased. CASE NO: 2025-CP-420 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: January 29, 2024. The date of first publication of this Notice is March 7, 2025. The personal representative or curator has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent’s death by the decedent, or the decedent’s surviving spouse, is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act, as described in sections 732.216 – 732.228 F.S., applies, or may apply unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under section 732.2211, F.S.
Attorney for Personal Representative: JOSHUA L. MOSES Richard & Moses, LLC Florida Bar No. 119304 808 E Fort King Street Ocala, FL 34471 (352) 369-1300
Primary Email: Josh@RMProbate.com
Personal Representative: RONALD THOMAS HAMILTON 2029 Egret Lane Charleston, SC 29414
Arnette House team members Morgan Nebel, left, and Kristen Bumpus, right, receive the Judge’s Choice first place award for mac and cheese from Ocala Business Leader member Edward 'Cicc' Ferrentino at The Big Cheese in Ocala, Fla. on Saturday, March 8, 2025. [Amber Battillo/Special to The Ocala Gazette]
Updated: ‘Granny Flats’ eyed amid housing problems
By Jim Saunders Florida News Service
TALLAHASSEE — As Florida continues to struggle with a lack of affordable housing, lawmakers are looking at “granny flats” to help address the problem.
Senate and House panels Tuesday approved bills (SB 184 and HB 247) that would require cities and counties to allow adding what are technically known as accessory dwelling units — but are often known as granny flats — in singlefamily residential areas.
Granny flats are independent living spaces added to homes or properties. Current law says local governments can allow granny flats, but the new legislation would require them to do so.
“ADUs (accessory dwelling units) increase workforce housing because ADUs cost less to build, they cost less to rent and they’re often located in urban areas where workers need to live in order to be close to their jobs,” Senate sponsor Don Gaetz, R-Niceville, said before the Senate Transportation, Tourism and Economic Development Appropriations Committee unanimously approved
the Senate bill Tuesday. Hours later, the House Housing, Agriculture & Tourism Subcommittee voted 15-2 to approve the House version, filed by Rep. Bill Conerly, R-Lakewood Ranch.
Lawmakers in 2023 passed a wide-ranging measure, dubbed the “Live Local Act,” aimed at expanding workforce housing in the state. That measure was a top priority of then-Senate President Kathleen Passidomo, R-Naples.
Gaetz, also a former Senate president, said Tuesday that his bill “takes another step.” A Senate staff analysis, citing a Florida Housing Coalition study, said accessory dwelling units are already allowed in 11 of the 15 cities with the highest populations in the state.
The bills drew support from groups as diverse as AARP, the Florida Chamber of Commerce and Americans for Prosperity.
Gaetz said residents could not lose their homestead property exemptions if they add granny flats — though the granny flats would also face property taxes. The requirement for allowing the units would not apply to planned unit developments or master planned communities, which, for example,
can include restrictions applied to an entire development rather than to individual homes.
Gaetz made a change Tuesday that he said would help prevent use of granny flats as short-term vacation rentals. The change would prevent the units from being leased for less than a month.
Sen. Carlos Guillermo Smith, D-Orlando, said he was initially concerned about “potential mischief” related to vacation rentals. But he said Tuesday’s change largely addressed that concern.
House members, meanwhile, raised questions about issues such as the use of the units for shortterm rentals and about possible effects on parking.
More broadly, Smith said the bill could help address affordablehousing problems.
“We have a real affordable housing crisis in the state of Florida, and a big part of that crisis has everything to do with supply, or lack of supply,” Smith said. “Bringing in these ADUs to help add to the housing supply is a great idea that should be encouraged.”
Gaetz’ bill must clear the Senate Rules Committee before it could go to the full Senate.
GOP lawmakers back ‘Gulf of America’ change
By Jim Turner Florida News Service
TALLAHASSEE — Florida lawmakers took the first steps Tuesday to wipe away the Gulf of Mexico from state laws and educational materials.
Three Republican-controlled House and Senate panels gave initial approvals to bills aimed at carrying out President Donald Trump’s move to rename the Gulf of Mexico, which first appeared on Spanish maps in the mid-1500s, as the “Gulf of America.”
Sen. Nick DiCeglie, an Indian Rocks Beach Republican who sponsored one of the bills (SB 608), called the gulf’s name change “patriotic.”
Days after Trump issued a Jan. 20 executive order titled “Restoring Names That Honor American Greatness,” Gov. Ron DeSantis used the Gulf of America name in a state executive order about a winter storm. But state laws and numerous other government materials use the Gulf of Mexico, leading to the legislative proposals.
“This is just changing the name Gulf of Mexico to Gulf of America in Florida statutes,” DiCeglie said. “It’s consistent with the executive order coming from the federal government. And it’s as simple as that.”
But Rep. Dotie Joseph, D-North Miami, said she opposed the change as “the Gulf of Mexico was assigned that name at birth.”
Matthew Grocholske, who called himself a Floridian with “a lot of time on my hands to waste,” said lawmakers should be focused on insurance and
affordable housing rather than “wasting time” on the name of the gulf and pointed to Republican lawmakers’ focus on Trump.
“Right now our government is in a very weird time period,” Grocholske told the House Government Operations Subcommittee. “This is not normal. This is a state that has enabled one person, one person, and has focused its whole legislative session so far on empowering that one person to try to pick up any sense of power. And that’s not what the government should be.”
But Rep. Judson Sapp, R-Green Cove Springs, called the change “brave” and said it announces “that America is great. And it tells the world that we believe that.”
DiCeglie’s bill was approved in a 4-2 vote by the Senate Community Affairs Committee after a similar measure (HB 575) was approved 13-4 by the House Government Operations Subcommittee.
The proposal would rename the Gulf of Mexico as the Gulf of America in 52 sections of state laws. If approved by the Legislature and signed by DeSantis, the changes would take effect July 1.
Separately, the Senate Governmental Oversight and Accountability Committee backed a measure (SB 1058) by Sen. Joe Gruters, R-Sarasota, that would require state agencies to update geographic materials to reflect the name change. Also, county school boards and charter school governing boards would have to begin acquiring instructional and library materials that reflect the Gulf of America name.
“We want our kids to have the correct names of
Local bipartisan opposition
Continued from page A1
McClain’s office has not responded to repeated requests for additional context as of the date this article was published. There has been a flurry of outrage for the proposal on social media.
Cynthia Moody wrote on Facebook, “Are they trying to completely ruin Ocala???”
James Tomlinson opined in the same post, “Home Rule until there’s more incentives to not have it, I guess? How convenient.”
Even former Marion County Commissioner David Moore wrote, “This is why we need to talk with our state legislators and let them know how we feel....... Gotta be involved
in order to stop government overreach.”
Brigette Smith, chair for the Marion County Republican Executive Committee, shared what it published in opposition to the bill, including: “these bills seek to undercut this key principle of home rule and the will of the electorate.”
The MCRE statement said, “It is not clear what constituency is served by these overt draft policies to negate Comprehensive Plans and community input at the County level. Marion County is undergoing explosive growth and is now showing the “growing pains” of increased traffic/school overcrowding
with projections of + $1B in future infrastructure costs and +$1B in school capital/ maintenance expenditures. There is little need for an ‘accelerant’ bill to increase the speed and density of residential development that would remove all these aspects, and others, weaken ‘home rule’ and negate the public’s input of changes that affect the daily lives of Marion County/Florida citizens. We are all advocates for property rights, yet this allows a landowner to apply for ‘administrative approval’ of development ‘regardless of the future land use map designation of the parcel or any conflicting comprehensive plan goals, objectives or policies.’ Existing owners vested rights in farmland/ rural neighborhoods need to be
Notice of Rule Development
NAME
RULE NO.: Board Policy po5120
SUMMARY:
SUMMARY OF RULE:
SUMMARY OF STATEMENT OF ESTIMATED REGULATORY COST:
SPECIFIC AUTHORITY: 1001.41, Fla. Stats. (2024).
Law(s) Implemented: 1001.41, Fla. Stats. (2024).
A
DATE:
CONTACT:
Notice
RULE NO.: Board Policy po5120
SUMMARY: Schedule two work sessions on April 3, 2025, and April 17, 2025, to discuss Rezoning for High School CCC
SUMMARY OF RULE: Board action with current statutes governing general powers of the district school board.
SUMMARY OF STATEMENT OF ESTIMATED REGULATORY COST: There are no additional costs required other than that of advertising.
SPECIFIC AUTHORITY: 1001.41, Fla. Stats. (2024).
Law(s) Implemented: 1001.41,
A
DATE: April 3, 2025,
everything moving forward, and this is just a way to do that,” Gruters said.
In opposing the bill, Sen. Tina Polsky, D-Boca Raton, said presidents shouldn’t unilaterally change the names of bodies of water or land.
“It just bothers me that we’re even making this change, that we’re wasting our time dealing with this,” Polsky said. Before the vote, Gruters removed part of the bill that sought to rename Tamiami Trail, which is U.S. 41 from Miami-Dade County to Hillsborough County, the “Gulf of America Trail.”
Rep. Juan Carlos Porras, R-Miami, has filed the House version of Gruters’ bill (HB 575).
protected. Republicans believe in local government as what’s closest to the people!”
Diana Williams, chair of the Marion Democratic Executive Committee, said they reviewed the bill and recognize that “this legislation will significantly change the impact of Florida’s Land Use Plan and makes it easier to develop agricultural land through the ‘administrative approval’ without regard to local input.” Williams recalled in an email to the “Gazette” memories from working for the Withlacoochee Regional Planning Council, which served five surrounding counties— Citrus, Marion, Levy, Sumter and Hernando. They worked on the Comprehensive Land Use Plan for this area and there were many, many meetings
to gather grassroots input on future development ideas.
“At that time, we had a plan developed from input provided by folks living in the communities. Now it seems our legislators in Tallahassee are wrestling home rule for power and control over our communities,” she said.
Williams added, “We are the Horse Capital of the World, for now. Is the World Equestrian Center enough to keep our title when we’ve sold off all our farmland? Hoping our residents will express their discontent to our legislators and make them aware that we are not asking for their help to convert our farmland into another subdivision, we want to manage that locally. Are we finding common ‘ground’ on this issue?”
People, Places and Things
Inspire Gala honors area philanthropists and nonprofits
The Community Foundation for Ocala/Marion event paid homage to individuals and organizations that help others in the community.
By Jennifer Hunt Murty
Four hundred of the “who’s who” involved in Marion County’s nonprofits and philanthropic outreaches met at Circle Square Cultural Center the evening of March 8 for the third annual Inspire Gala, hosted by the Community Foundation for Ocala/Marion. During the evening, a number of awards were presented, highlighting many forms of giving.
Ashley Gerds, vice president for Strategic Engagement, told the crowd that the nominees were selected by their peers who understand the community and that the awards are “more than recognition; it’s a celebration of dedication, service and the powerful ripple effect of giving.”
Before announcing the awards, Lauren Deiorio, president and executive director of the foundation, said the final decisions were made by multiple agencies outside of Marion County “to ensure a fair and unbiased selection process” and that every “nomination was evaluated solely on merit.”
“While only one nominee will be selected in each category, we were told by these agencies that the decision was incredibly difficult, with many scores coming in very close,” said Deiorio.
The Youth Philanthropist of the Year award was presented to Khole Kostowicz, by Stan Hanson, on behalf of the Adam Hanson Better Communities Fund.
“With over 500 hours of community service, she has left a lasting impact on countless lives through her unwavering dedication to service,” Hanson said before recounting a list of “pivotal roles” Kostowicz played, from serving as lead coordinator of the Forest High School JROTC’s Interfaith Emergency Services Food Drive, helping collect an astounding 13,000 pounds of food to support those facing food insecurity; being a voice for her peers as a Student School Board Representative; working as a lifeguard for the city
of Ocala, ensuring the safety and well-being of others; serving as a Wing Commander with JROTC; leading initiatives through Best Buddies, the National Honor Society, HOSA and the American Government Club; and showing her “passion for health advocacy as an Anti-Vaping FANS Design Winner.”
Rusty Branson presented the Unsung Hero Award to Marion County Commissioner Michelle Stone.
“She has been a fierce advocate for veterans, tirelessly working to honor those who have served our country. Her support of literacy programs, community development and countless charitable initiatives speaks to her deep-rooted belief in lifting others up and ensuring every individual has the resources and opportunities they need to thrive,” Branson stated.
Angie Lewis presented the Board Member of the Year award to Bob Levenson.
“Through his leadership with the Marion County Memorial Honor Guard, he has helped ensure that no veteran is laid to rest without the recognition and gratitude they have earned,”
Lewis noted.
Lewis additionally pointed to the significant impact of the Veterans Resource Center of Marion County, under Levenson’s leadership, through “connecting people with critical resources, advocating for those in need and fostering collaboration among organizations,” which has strengthened the support systems available to so many.
Levenson told those in attendance that the center recently received funding the Galleri blood test, which tests for cancer at no cost to veterans over 21 who served “boots on the ground” in the Vietnam War, Gulf War and Global War on Terrorism.
“If you know of any such veterans, please send them to our center,” Levenson said.
The Emerging Nonprofit Award, presented on behalf of AdventHealth Ocala, went to the Ocala Horse Alliance. The award was accepted by the Alliance’s president, Ellie Truman. Board member Bonnie Heath told the crowd, “When Ellie told me she wanted to unite all the breeds, I told her, I have been here 60 years, and no one has ever been
able to make that happen. Then she came with the Black Stallion Reading Project.”
The project is a cooperative effort between the Ocala Horse Alliance and Marion County Public Schools in which fourthgrade students are encouraged to read, set goals, achieve and become aware of job and career opportunities in the equestrian industry. The program links schools with horse farms and provides rewards and incentives for students, as well as a chance to see a horse in person and receive a copy of “The Black Stallion” book.
“Each year, this nonprofit holds a fundraiser to purchase the 3,800 books needed to continue this program in all 32 elementary schools. Their dedication to investing in the next generation is truly inspiring. Beyond literacy, this agency is a driving force behind workforce development, equine-assisted therapy and the continued growth of Marion County’s equestrian industry. Through strategic partnerships, advocacy and educational programs, they are ensuring that our community remains the Horse Capital of
the World, not just in title but in action,” said Amy Mangan, when presenting the award.
Frank and Angela DeLuca of the DeLuca Family Foundation presented The Nonprofit of The Year Award to the Estella Byrd Whitman Community Health Center’s Executive Director Levonda Goodson.
“From the very first breath of a child to the care of our elders, this organization ensures that no one is left behind. They provide a comprehensive range of services—everything from primary care and annual health check-ups for men and women to childhood wellness visits, chronic care management and preventative screenings. They offer vaccinations, school and sports physicals, women’s health services, family planning, and even referrals for specialty care like dental and ophthalmology. Through their drug assistance program, they also ensure that vital medications are within reach for those who need them most,” Angela DeLuca noted.
Touched to tears, Goodson accepted the award and
Frank DeLuca, right, receives the Philanthropist of the Year award from Doug Cone III, during the Inspire Gala.
Stan Hanson becomes emotional as he remembers his late son, Adam, as he receives the Frank Hennessey Legacy Award while Hennessey and Lauren Deiorio of the Community Foundation, look on.
Evan Brandies becomes emotional as he and his wife, Renee Brandies, talk about their nonprofit, Harlow’s Helping Hands, founded in memory of their son, Harlow.
Khole Kostowicz is presented the Youth Philanthropist of the Year award by Stan Hanson as Ashley Gerds of the Community Foundation for Ocala/Marion County, center, looks.
Amanda Tart accepts the Unsung Hero Award for Michelle Stone from Rusty Branson during the gala at the Circle Square Cultural Center.
People applaud as Jim Hilty receives the Luminary Award during the Community Foundation for Ocala/Marion County Inspire Gala.
Bob Levenson receives the Nonprofit Board Member of the Year Award from Angie Lewis, left, and Ashley Gerds during the Inspire Gala.
Levonda Goodson, CEO of the Estella Byrd Whitman Community Health Center, becomes emotional as she accepts the Nonprofit of the Year Award for the center during the Community Foundation for Ocala/Marion County Inspire Gala at the Circle Square Cultural Center in Ocala, Fla. on Saturday, March 8, 2025. From left, Ashley Gerds of the foundation, and Angela and Frank DeLuca.
See Gala honors, page B2
Photos by Bruce Ackerman
Ellie Trueman and Bonnie Health III, of the Ocala Horse Alliance, come to the stage to receive the Emerging Nonprofit Award from the Community Foundation for Ocala/Marion County.
Varied lineup set for outdoor concerts
The 2025 Levitt Amp Ocala Music Series kicks off March 14 with a funk/soul combo, followed by a wide range of performances through May 16.
By Susan Smiley-Height susan@magnoliamediaco.com
Got plans for Friday nights from March 14 to May 16? If not, then consider pulling up a lawn chair or blanket and grooving to the sounds of a wide range of artists in the 2025 Levitt Amp Ocala Music Series.
Each of those Friday evenings, beginning at 6 p.m., guests can settle in on the lawn of Webb Field at the Martin Luther King Jr. Recreation Complex at 1501 W Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala. The events, which are free to attend, feature food trucks, interactive activities with the Ocala Recreation Mobile, a spotlight on a local nonprofit organization and painting sessions led by local artists.
The Levitt AMP Ocala
Music Series is supported in part by the Mortimer & Mimi Levitt Foundation, “which partners with changemakers and nonprofits across the country to activate underused outdoor spaces, creating welcoming and inclusive destinations where the power of free, live music brings people together, fosters belonging and invigorates community life,” according to provided materials.
The local events are a partnership of the Marion Cultural Alliance, city of Ocala, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Commemorative Commission of Marion County and Juneteenth Celebration Commission.
The 2025 lineup includes:
• March 14 – Joslyn and the Sweet Compression (funk/ soul)
• March 21 – Okan (AfroCuban Jazz)
• March 28 – The Mexican Standoff (Tejano)
• April 4 – The Sweet Lillies (bluegrass/ Americana)
• April 11 – The Dollyrots (pop rock/punk)
• April 18 – Larry
McCray (blues)
• April 25 – BettySoo (country)
• May 2 – Nattali Rize (reggae)
• May 9 – Larry & Joe (Venezuelan Joropo & Appalachian folk)
• May 16 – McCrary Sisters (gospel)
For details, go to ocalafl. gov/levittamp or follow @ LevittAMPOcala on Facebook and Instagram.
Registration is open for summer art camps
The Appleton Museum of Art will offer a wide range of classes, led by professional art educators and teaching artists.
Staff report
The Appleton Museum of Art, College of Central Florida, will again offer half-day summer art camps for ages 5 to 17 and registrations are now being accepted.
Campers will discover the work of renowned artists, experiment with a variety of materials and try out new techniques to create masterpieces. Art camps are led by professional art educators and teaching artists, who will guide campers through fun, themed projects, according to the news release.
This year’s camps include Dig Into Clay, Outdoor Landscape Painting, Fun at CF Vintage Farm, Color Wonderful, Shells and Sandcastles, Florida’s Wild
Gala honors
Continued from page B1
welcomed the founder of the center, Carolyn Adams, and the rest of the team, to the stage to accept the award.
“Thank you for believing in me enough to lead this organization,” Goodson said. “I love making people know they are cared for.”
The Estate Planning Council Luminary Award was presented to Ocala City Council member and former Edward Jones financial advisor Jim Hilty.
Hilty, who has served on many local nonprofit boards, has also mentored many boys through his efforts with the Boy Scouts. Hilty said he was inspired by the example of the financial firm’s founder, Edward Jones, who was intricately involved in his community.
Charisse Rivers, CEO and founder of Zinnia Wealth Management, presented the Corporate Partner of The Year to Team Cone. Rivers said the award was meant to recognize “a business that has gone above and beyond in its commitment
Wetlands, Art Detective, Art Safari, Saddle Up, Storybook Art, Reinventing the Canvas, Drawing and Painting Portfolio Development, Groovy and Glowing, Funky Sculpture,
to strengthening our community through philanthropy, volunteerism and unwavering support for those in need.”
Rivers presented the award to Douglas Cone III and acknowledged the company’s efforts to address the challenges of homelessness, food insecurity, child abuse prevention, animal rescues, foster care and education.
Cone, who serves as a board member for the foundation, presented the Philanthropist of the Year Award to Frank DeLuca.
“His passion for youth development and education has led to transformative contributions that ensure young people have the resources and support they need to succeed. From scholarships and mentorship programs to youth athletics and leadership initiatives, he has consistently invested in the next generation, empowering them to reach their full potential. Beyond his financial contributions, he is a hands-on advocate for change. He leads by example, actively engaging with the causes he supports, attending events,
Skulls and Skeletons, Glow Up, Meow Masterpieces, Doggy Days, Critter Fun, Splat!, Outside the Lines, Space Cadet, Architecture FUNdamentals and Pixels and Blocks.
mentoring young leaders and working alongside nonprofits to maximize their impact. His philanthropy is not just about giving—it’s about creating lasting change,” Cone said of DeLuca.
Foundation founding board member and chairman of the board Frank Martin Hennessey took the stage to present his Legacy Award to Frank DeLuca and Stan Hanson.
Hennessey said of Deluca, “Through his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment, he has not only donated over $14 million to various charitable causes but has also spearheaded transformative projects that have enriched the lives of Marion County residents and will for generations to come. From supporting YMCA expansions to contributing to the Reilly Arts Center expansion and championing affordable housing initiatives, his impact resonates far and wide.”
Hennessey spoke of Hanson using philanthropy to make the world a better place after the loss of his 31-year-old son, Adam Hanson. The community fund that bears Adam’s name has been
“Appleton summer art camps sell out quickly since our expert educators are engaged teachers delivering classes within a worldclass museum environment,” said Jason Steuber, Appleton director, in the release. “It means so much to see former Summer Art Camp students now as parents bringing their own children in for classes. Our decades of experience make camp a summer tradition destination.”
used to spearhead many causes in Marion County, he said.
“Since they weren’t going to have grandchildren, they decided to help the children of the world,” Hennessey said of Stan and Martha Hanson, who have been married for 57 years.
“I’m sure if Adam was here, he’d say, ‘Good job Dad, Mom, this is what I want you to do,’” Stan Hanson told the audience.
He recalled that he and his wife settled in Marion County after living as “corporate gypsies” all over the world as he worked for Procter & Gamble for 30 years. Moving that much, Hanson said, they didn’t get the “opportunity to do what God wanted us to for humanity.”
Another couple who are involved with the Community Foundation of Ocala/Marion County, Evan and Renee Brandies, spoke to the crowd about how they founded the nonprofit Harlow’s Helping Hands after they lost their young son, Harlow, to an accidental drowning in July 2024.
“Did you know that accidental drowning is the number one cause of death for children ages
The camps are appropriate for all skill levels. Discounts are available for current Appleton members at the Family/Dual Level or above.
To register for camps, go to appletonmuseum.org
1 to 4? And that it’s the number two cause of death for children ages 5 to 12? We didn’t. And that made us mad. Mad that this wasn’t common knowledge. Mad that more wasn’t being done. Mad that no one had told us before it was too late,” Evan told the crowd.
The couple credited the foundation with giving them the support they needed to raise money for educational awareness about accidental drownings.
The mission of the Community Foundation for Ocala/Marion County is to “enhance the quality of life for all residents of our community by fostering philanthropy and stewarding charitable resources. We strive to identify and address the most pressing needs in our area, and to support innovative solutions that create positive, sustainable change. Through partnerships with donors, nonprofits, and other community leaders, we seek to build a thriving, inclusive, and resilient community that provides opportunities for all to succeed.”
To learn more, go to ocalafoundation.org
Photos courtesy College of Central Florida
Registration is now open for the CF Appleton Museum of Art’s summer art camps.
Some of the CF Appleton Museum of Art summer art camps offer instruction outside in nature.
Joslyn and the Sweet Compression will kick off the 2025 Levitt Amp Ocala Music Series on March 14. [Photo courtesy city of Ocala]
Racer fan fest precedes Gatornationals
The Burnyzz Speed Shop gathering in southeast Ocala drew more than 30 top drivers and about 7,000 guests.
By Andy Fillmore andy@ocalagazette.com
The 56th Amalie Motor Oil NHRA Gatornationals in Gainesville was plagued by off and on thunderstorms from March 7-9, but the March 5 Fan Fest at Burnyzz Speed Shop in Ocala was nothing but blue skies and a celebration of some of drag racing’s finest drivers.
The third annual Fan Fest was hosted by Burnyzz Speed Shop owners Josh and Brittanie Hart. The event featured about 30 big name National Hot Rod Association drivers, including drag racing legend “Big Daddy” Don Garlits, who owns a museum south of Ocala, and NASCAR star Tony Stewart, who is now in his second year of NHRA Top Fuel drag racing, and about 7,000 fans turned out to see them. The event included a car show, with a number of privately-owned vehicles on display, music, food and family fun.
Josh Hart races the R + L Carriers Top Fuel dragster. He said that during the Gatornationals he would be only the second driver in NHRA history to drive in the Top Fuel and Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown Series. At the end of the day on March 9, the Top Fuel award went to defending world champion Antron Brown. Hart finished in 13th place. The Funny Car title went to Chad Green, with Dallas Green winning Pro Stock and Gaige Herrera taking the win in Pro Stock Motorcycle.
At the Fan Fest event in Ocala, Elon Werner, a spokesperson for the Josh Hart
Team, said this year’s event had “more drivers than ever” and that the car show was the biggest of all three years.
Veve and Scott Adams, with their 1967 Chevrolet Camaro, were among the many people displaying cars. A 2011 Ford Shelby Mustang in the showroom garnered a lot of attention from car buffs
The drivers on hand for autographs and photos ranged from 12-year-old junior dragster racers, twin brothers Rydin and Zandir Cook, who have been racing since the age of 7; to racing legends Darrell Gwynn and Bruce Larsen, a Funny Car champ who drove Garlits’ Kendall GT-1 Top Fuel dragsters in 1991 and 1992.
Some fans brought helmets, posters, diecast model cars and more for drivers to sign during the autograph session, which lasted for hours. Brett and Angela Huff of Tampa had a front quarter panel from a Ford Mustang driven by Tony Stewart and planned to ask the three-time NASCAR Cup champion to sign it. The panel was purchased from a NASCAR collectibles shop in North Carolina and was complete with documentation and a scuff around the wheel well opening area.
“The scuff likely came from brushing the wall,” Brett Huff said.
Judy and Jay Leininger of Ocala were the first people in line for the autograph session.
“We’re here to see everybody,” she said.
The couple had a helmet, which they had signed by several drivers, including the Cook twins and Camrie Caruso, 27-year-old driver of the True Brand Racing car and NHRA Rookie of the Year for 2023.
Mike and Linda Swope of Avon, Indiana, traveled to Gainesville to attend the Gatornationals and decided to come to Ocala for Fan Fest. They were in line to meet several racers, including one of their favorites, Funny Car driver “Fast” Jack Beckman, who chatted with Linda and he said he recalled meeting her at a previous event.
“The drivers are very friendly and it’s interesting to hear them talk,” Linda Swope said. The couple has also visited the Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing.
Top Fuel dragster driver Ida Zetterstrom, a 30-year-old native of Sweden now living in Indianapolis, Indiana, is cited in her biography as the 2023 European Top Fuel Champion in pursuit of the NHRA Top Fuel
Championship. She comes from a family with a background in racing and her mother, Carola Zetterstrom, was at Fan Fest to offer support.
Leah Pruett, 36, a Top Fuel driver, who finished third in points in 2023, was signing autographs, as was Chris Bostick, who pilots the Surf Signature RV Resort Suzuki Pro Stock motorcycle in the NHRA Misson Drag Racing Series.
Bobby Iafratde represented another breed of racers—remote controlled battery-powered model dragster operators—who are set to compete at the Garlits museum.
Race fan Scott Adimando waited in the autograph line as did Ron Magrino of The Villages. Magrino had a die-cast model car to have signed by Stewart. John and Toki Otway of Ocala wanted to see Garlits. Chris Ennis and his daughter, Aliyah, 14, were near the back of the long line but felt that meeting Stewart, their favorite driver, and having him sign a helmet, was worth the wait.
To learn more about the Gatornationals, go to nhra.com; for info about Burnyzz Speed Shop, go to burnyzz.com
“Big Daddy” Don Garlits, left, signs autographs with Top Fuel driver Ida Zetterstrom during the NHRA Gatornationals Fan Fest at Burnyzz Speed Shop in Ocala, Fla. on Wednesday, March 5, 2025.
“Big Daddy” Don Garlits, left, talks with Top Fuel driver and Fan Fest host Josh Hart.
Top Fuel driver Doug Foley, left, talks with Funny Car driver “Fast Jack” Beckman as they sign autographs.
Darrell Gwynn, left, signs an autograph for Traci Hrudka of Mr. Gasket during the NHRA Gatornationals Fan Fest.
Classic muscle cars are shown as people wait for an autograph session to start at Burnyzz Speed Shop.
Junior dragster drivers Rydin Cook, 12, left, and his twin brother, Zandir, right, sign autographs during Fan Fest.
Photos by Bruce Ackerman
How belly breathing benefits your body, mind
DEAR MAYO CLINIC: Is breathing from your belly beneficial? If so, can you explain why and how to do it?
ANSWER: From the day you’re born, you know how to breathe correctly. That means letting the diaphragm — the large, thin muscle just below the rib cage — do the work of drawing air into the lungs and letting it out. It’s known as diaphragmatic or belly breathing, and it’s the most efficient and effective way to breathe.
But over time, almost everyone needs to remember how. Rather than belly breathing, people begin chest breathing. With chest breathing, the muscles between the ribs and the neck do the harder work of raising and lowering the rib cage to pull air into the lungs and push it out. Chest breathing requires a lot of effort and moves less air.
When it comes to the correct way to breathe, it doesn’t matter whether you breathe through your nose or your mouth. Where you breathe from matters — your belly and not your chest.
Relaxed breathing should originate primarily from the diaphragm with little movement of the chest and shoulders. Chest breathing activates “accessory respiratory muscles” that tighten the neck, chest and vocal cords and can trigger a fight-or-flight stress reflex.
A chest-breathing pattern is useful in short bursts when running from danger. However, prolonged chest breathing can contribute to coughing, hoarseness, tension headaches, chest tightness, shortness of breath and anxiety.
Belly breathing promotes a sense of calm relaxation. That’s why it’s typically part of mindfulness practices and yoga.
About 80% of people with chronic cough have more than one factor contributing to symptoms. These can include postnasal drip, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), asthma, respiratory infections, throat dryness and inefficient chest breathing, which is an often-overlooked cough trigger. People with chronic coughs tend to adopt inefficient breathing habits.
Each of these conditions can aggravate the other, and the cough may persist unless the person addresses all contributing factors at the same time.
Research has indicated that people with GERD who practice belly breathing after eating reduce how often they experience acid reflux.
People with sleep apnea and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) can find some relief with belly breathing, which helps them feel less short of breath and less anxious.
Belly breathing also can slow your
heartbeat and lower or stabilize blood pressure.
Mayo Clinic’s Pain Rehabilitation Centers in Minnesota, Florida and Arizona help people experiencing chronic pain find ways to alleviate or control the pain. One way is by using biofeedback to train patients to relax and breathe with their belly, not their chest.
Medications can’t correct chest breathing. The only solution is practice and patience. Most people can improve their breathing patterns with enough time and attention. As a bonus, you may end up with fewer headaches and less anxiety.
To determine how you breathe, try this simple test:
Stand up straight or lie flat on a bed or the floor.
Put one hand flat on your chest, the other one flat on your belly.
Watch your hands when you inhale and exhale. If you’re chest breathing, the hand on your chest will go up and down. If you’re belly breathing, the hand on your belly will go up and down.
Other signs that you’re chest breathing include frequent sighing and yawning, which indicate you’re not getting enough air into your lungs.
Relearning how to belly breathe takes practice. If you’ve ever taken a yoga class or done a mindfulness exercise, those activities usually start with bellybreathing practice.
Begin your training by repeating the test throughout the day while lying down, standing or sitting with your back straight. As you get more comfortable breathing from your belly, you can try it when you’re more active, such as walking. Then, build your way up to practicing belly breathing while engaging in more vigorous activities such as working out, running, mowing the grass or dancing.
Don’t worry if you revert to chest breathing. Think about it this way: Chest breathing will get you there, just like crawling does. But neither is very efficient. As a toddler, you spend countless hours, with plenty of falls and tumbles, learning how to walk so you can get from point A to point B most efficiently. Like walking, belly breathing will become normal to you. Be patient with yourself.
Not only is diaphragmatic or belly breathing efficient and powerful, but it’s also free and has no side effects. Embrace belly breathing, and your body and mind will thank you. — Richard Crockett, M.D., Immunology & Allergy Services, Mayo Clinic Health System, Mankato and New Prague, Minnesota.
ROAD PAVING
RANCH ROAD PAVING
Time to sign up for Camp Kiwanis
The annual summer residential program is a rite of passage for many area families.
By Susan Smiley-Height susan@magnoliamediaco.com
There is a time-honored tradition in Marion County that goes back generations—Camp Kiwanis.
Raise your hand if you were ever a camper, or if your children or grandchildren have been campers. Chances are, many locals will recall the days and nights of fun, camaraderie and adventure they had at Camp Kiwanis.
Camp Kiwanis is located on Mill Dam Lake in the Ocala
National Forest. The facility first was used as a Civilian Conservation Corps camp for workers during the 1930s. It later served as a quarantine hospital during World War II. After the war, the camp fell into disrepair. The Kiwanis Club of Ocala leased the property from the U.S. Forest Service in the late 1940s and began refurbishing the facilities. In 1948, the club opened Camp Kiwanis with a focus on providing a fun and safe summer camp for children.
A wooden dining pavilion was added in 1952, and air-
AMERICA’S TEST KITCHEN Gather ’round a bowl of buttery, kalestudded colcannon
this St. Patrick’s Day
Colcannon is a simple, beloved Irish preparation of mashed potatoes studded with greens and alliums and topped generously with butter. In our take, we opted to punctuate the mash with earthy leaves of kale and mild, sweet scallions. We used Yukon Gold potatoes to yield a creamy mash. We chopped the inclusions small and then sautéed them in butter to ensure that they’d fold effortlessly into the potatoes.
Pouring the milk into the pan of sautéed vegetables and bringing the mixture to a simmer encouraged the dairy to take on the vegetables’ flavor. We strained the solids out of the milk for mashing and then gently folded them in at the end to ensure that
they weren’t crushed. For the most traditional presentation, serve the colcannon in a large serving bowl. Shape a divot in the center and allow a knob of butter to melt and fill the pool.
Colcannon Serves 4 to 6
2 pounds Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and sliced 1/2-inch thick
1 1/4 teaspoons table salt, plus salt for cooking potatoes
8 ounces curly kale
8 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
1/4 teaspoon pepper
8 scallions, sliced thin (3/4 cup)
1 1/2 cups whole milk
1Place potatoes and 1 tablespoon salt in a large saucepan, add water to cover by 1
conditioned dormitories were later built to replace aging wooden cabins. Portable classrooms, a playground, archery range, multi-purpose pavilion and sports fields have been added over the years.
Camp Kiwanis is a partnership between Marion County Public Schools and the Kiwanis Club of Ocala. The spacious campus remains a haven where children ages 7 to 13 can share fun times with other kids in a supervised environment.
“Camp Kiwanis is a traditional residential summer
camp that has been part of the community since 1948. Kids have a blast swimming, canoeing, doing archery, crafts and more,” said Erin Benavides with Marion County Public Schools. “The staffers are Marion County Public Schools teachers, and we have amazing high school student counselors.”
Evening camp activities include skit night, relay races, battle-ball and a dance.
“Camp activities are designed to let kids be kids,” according to organizers. This summer’s sessions will run June 9-13, June 16-20 and
June 23-27, each at a cost of $400 for the week; a session from June 30-July 3 is $320. The Kiwanis Club of Ocala and other local Kiwanis clubs provide some scholarships to underprivileged kids. Families can drop off campers, or there is bus service from Marion Technical Institute to and from camp as needed. To register, go to marionschools. revtrak.net/Camp-Kiwanis/#/list
inch, and bring to boil over high heat. Reduce heat to medium and simmer until potatoes are tender and paring knife can be easily slipped in and out of potatoes, 18 to 22 minutes.
2Meanwhile, stem kale, then slice stems thin crosswise and set aside. Cut leaves into 1-inch pieces.
3Melt 6 tablespoons butter in a 12-inch skillet over medium heat. Add kale stems, 1 tablespoon water, 1 1/4 teaspoons salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper.
Cook, stirring occasionally, until kale stems have softened, 6 to 8 minutes.
4Stir in kale leaves and scallions, and cook until kale leaves have wilted and scallions are softened, 1 to 2 minutes. Stir in milk, increase heat to high, and bring to simmer. Remove pan from heat and cover to keep warm.
5Drain potatoes and return to saucepan. Cook over low heat, stirring, until potatoes are thoroughly dried, about 30
seconds. Remove from heat. Pour milk mixture through fine-mesh strainer over potatoes; reserve solids.
6Using potato masher, mash potatoes to desired smoothness. Gently fold in solids from strainer. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7Transfer potatoes to a serving bowl. Using a spoon, create depression in the center of the potatoes. Place remaining 2 tablespoons butter in depression. Serve.
For the most traditional presentation, serve the colcannon in a large serving bowl. CREDIT: (Beth Fuller/TCA).
Landon Boyles, 10, does a dolphin slide backwards on the bottom of a canoe as camp counselors watch at Camp Kiwanis in the Ocala National Forest on Tuesday, June 14, 2022.
Quincy Mitchell, 12, gets his flag taken away as he plays with other campers at Camp Kiwanis on June 11, 2024.
Photos by Bruce Ackerman Ocala Gazette
Government
MARCH 17, 24 AND 31
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.
MARCH 18
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. 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
MARCH 31 – APRIL 4
Operation Green Light
Marion County Clerk of Court and Comptroller’s O ce, 110 NW First Ave., Ocala Hours vary
This is an opportunity for Marion County customers with suspended driver’s licenses to get their license back by paying overdue court obligations in full, including traffic tickets, while saving up to 25 percent in additional fees. This year’s event will be available in person, by phone and online. For details, go to marioncountyclerk.org
Community Arts
MARCH 14 AND 15
Southeastern Pro Rodeo
Southeastern Livestock Pavilion, 2232 NE Jacksonville Road, Ocala Gates open 5:30pm; performances at 7:30pm There will be competitions in breakaway roping, saddle and bareback bronc riding, tie down roping, steer wrestling, team roping, barrel racing and bull riding. Learn more at ocalarodeo.com
MARCH 13-16
Live Oak International
Live Oak Stud Plantation, 10570 W Highway 40, Ocala Hours vary
This is the largest combined driving and show jumping competition in the United States and the weekend will feature plenty of equine action, vendors and more. For details, go to liveoakinternational. com
MARCH 22
The Great Book Sale Paddock Mall, 3100 SW College Road, Ocala 1-5pm
The Senior Resource Foundation of Ocala, in partnership with the Rotary Club of IMPACT Ocala and Paddock Mall, will host the event, with proceeds to benefit Marion County Animal Services. The event is free to attend. Book prices will be .50 cents or $1. For more information, go to impactocalarc.com
THROUGH MARCH 23
HITS Ocala Winter Circuit
HITS Post Time Farm, 137190 W. Highway 27, Ocala
Hours vary
For four decades, the circuit has provided one of the largest equine shows in the country, with premier competitions for riders and horses of all levels. Learn more at hitsshows.com/hits-events/hits-ocalawinter-circuit
SUNDAYS THROUGH MARCH 23
Ocala Polo: Winter Season
Florida Horse Park, 11008 S Highway 475, Ocala
1pm
Matches are family-friendly and don’t worry if you don’t know anything about horses or polo, come ready for a fun time tailgating with friends and they will teach you the rest. To learn more, visit ocalapolo.com
MARCH 28
Party in Purple for Domestic Violence
Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place, 1821 NW 21st Ave., Ocala
This event is organized by the Marion County Health Department, Marion County Children’s Alliance Family Violence Prevention Workgroup and Fully In Tune Temple, LLC, to help break the silence against domestic violence in the community. It will feature local Zumba, MixxedFit and Dance Fitness licensed and certified Instructors. Free Domestic Violence Awareness t-shirt for registrants while sizes and supplies last. All proceeds raised from ticket sales, vendor and sponsor raffle prizes will be donated to Marion County Domestic Violence Victims and Survivors. Get tickets at eventbrite.com
APRIL 1
Heart of HR: Driving Engagement and Innovation Conference Circle Square Cultural Center, 8395 SW 80th St., Ocala Johnny Taylor Jr., president and CEO of the Society for Human Resource Management, will be the keynote speaker. Other speakers include Kate Beeders, Kenneth A. Knox, Chris Laney and Jenni Stone. The conference is presented by CareerSource Citrus Levy Marion and the Ocala Human Resources Management Association. It will be emceed by motivational humorist, best-selling author and magician Jon Petz. Tickets are $175 for all-day access, including refreshments and lunch, or $200 for conference and reception. Advance tickets are available at bit.ly/HEARTofHR2025
THROUGH APRIL 6 Winter
MARCH 14-16
“Settin’ the Standards”
Brick City Center for the Arts, 23 SW Broadway St., Ocala
March 14 and 15, 7:30pm; March 16, 2pm
Ocala Civic Theatre and Marion Cultural Alliance present “Settin’ the Standards” by the Brick City Cabaret Company. The program includes jazz, pop and film standards like “It Had To Be You,” “Over The Rainbow,” “Blue Skies,” “A Nightingale Sang in Berkeley Square,” “Me and My Shadow,” “Charleston,” “Let’s Call the Whole Thing Off,” “Ain’t That a Kick In The Head,” “Fever,” “The Boy Next Door” and more. Doors open one hour before each performance. A gourmet popcorn bar is included with a ticket and there will be a cash bar. Advance reservations are recommended. Tickets are $35 per person or $60 per couple. Learn more at ocalacivictheatre.com
MARCH 14 – MAY 16
Levitt Amp Ocala Music Series
Webb Field, MLK Recreation Complex, 1510 NW 4th St., Ocala
6pm
The Marion Cultural Alliance, in partnership with the city of Ocala, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Commemorative Commission of Marion County and Juneteenth Celebration Commission, will host the 2025 Levitt AMP Ocala Music Series. The free, outdoor concert series will offer 10 weeks of live music. Concerts take place every Friday from 6 to 8 pm. Beginning March 14, the lineup includes Joslyn and the Sweet Compression, Okan, The Mexican Standoff , The Sweet Lillies, The Dollyrots, Larry McCray, BettySoo, Nattali Rize, Larry & Joe and the McCrary Sisters. Each event will feature food trucks, interactive activities and a spotlight on a local nonprofit. Find details at ocala .gov
MARCH 14
Sit Down for Stand Up
Marion Theatre, 50 S. Magnolia Ave., Ocala
7:30pm Headlined by JJ Curry, with feature performances by Farzin Moradi and Sierra Lyko. These three comics are set to deliver a night full of razor-sharp wit, observational humor and high-energy. Learn more at reillyartscenter.com/themarion
MARCH 14
Lucas Bohn: Lesson Plans to Late Nights
Marion Theatre, 50 S. Magnolia Ave., Ocala
7:30pm From a public-school teacher to a national touring comedian, Bohn shares his journey of following his dreams in the midst of life’s curve balls. He has worked with Dave Chappelle, Kevin Hart and Jimmy Fallon and has been featured on NBC’s “Bring the Funny.” Get details at reillyartscenter.com/ themarion
MARCH 15
Almost ABBA – The #1 Tribute to ABBA
Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE 9th St., Ocala
7:30pm Almost ABBA recreates the magic and nostalgia of ABBA in a costumed, choreographed, audience interactive experience. With their sound-alike performance, intricate harmonies and top-notch musicianship, they live up to their name. Learn more at reillyartscenter.com
MARCH 20
Evil Women-The American ELO
Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE 9th St., Ocala
7:30pm This is a multi-media concert celebration of the music of ELO, with flawless musicianship and vocals and where classically tinged rock intersects with pop. Find details at reillyartscenter.com
MARCH 20 – APRIL 6
“Murder On the Orient Express”
Ocala Civic Theatre, 4337 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala Times vary Agatha Christie’s classic murder mystery is live on stage. In 1934, the famed Orient Express is hurtling from Istanbul through wintry western Europe, with the iconic Belgian detective Hercule Poirot among the international passengers. The train becomes stuck overnight in a snowdrift in Yugoslavia, but morning reveals an American tycoon is found stabbed to death in his locked compartment. Every passenger raises questions in Poirot’s mind. Tickets are $35 for adults and $17 for ages 18 and younger. Learn more at ocalacivictheatre.com
MARCH 21
Reilly Noir Series: The Maharajah Flamenco Trio
Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE 9th St., Ocala
7:30pm Blending traditional Spanish rhythms with jazz, classical and world music, this virtuosic group, led by Silviu Ciulei, delivers an intimate and captivating performance. Get tickets at reillyartscenter.com
THROUGH MARCH 29
“Journey Through the Wild Water” exhibit
Brick City Center for the Arts, 23 SW Broadway St., Ocala The Marion Cultural Alliance offers an exhibit that explores the beauty and wonder of the Ocklawaha and Silver Rivers with a multi-medium display featuring regional artists Mark Emery, Jillian Ramsammy, Karen Chadwick, Reinier Munguia and Alan Youngblood. Admission to the gallery is free. Learn more at mcaocala.org
and operated with over 25
Ocalan Mark Emery is among the artists with works on display in the “Journey Through the Wild Water” exhibit on display at the Brick City Center for the Arts. [Photo courtesy Mark Emery]
Sudoku is played on a grid of 9 x 9 spaces. Within the rows and columns are 9 “squares” (made up of 3 x 3 spaces). Each row, column and square (9 spaces each) needs to be filled out with the numbers 1-9, without repeating any numbers within the same row, column or square.
Sudoku
By
The Mepham Group
RICK STEVES’ EUROPE
Toledo: Spain’s historic, artistic and spiritual center
On my last visit to Toledo, it seemed holier than ever: Dark
El Greco clouds threatened overhead, stark against bright, clear horizons. Hail pelted the masses of people clogging the streets as they awaited the Good Friday procession.
A look back at my write-up reveals nothing but superlatives: Toledo’s street plan is the most confusing in Spain, its cathedral the most Gothic (and the most Spanish of all Gothic churches), and the cathedral’s altar the most stunning. Toledo was once home to Europe’s most powerful king, Charles V, and is papered with the vividly spiritual paintings of the city’s most famous artist, El Greco.
Spain’s former capital crowds 2,500 years of tangled history onto a high, rocky perch protected on three sides by a natural moat, the Tajo River. Toledo is so well preserved and packed with cultural wonder that the city has been declared a national monument – no modern exteriors are allowed. For centuries, Christians, Muslims, and Jews enjoyed this city together. Toledo’s past is a complex mix of these three great religions.
Today, Toledo is filled with tourists daytripping from Madrid, a quick 30-minute train ride to the north. Its main sights were beautifully renovated when the town marked the 400th anniversary of El Greco’s death in 2014. The two biggies are the magnificent cathedral, with a jaw-dropping interior and a sacristy swathed in El Greco’s work, and the Santa Cruz Museum, with its own world-class collection of El Greco paintings.
The cathedral is shoehorned into the old center, where it rises brilliantly above
the town’s medieval clutter. The interior is laden with elaborate wrought-iron work, lavish wood carvings, and window after colorful window of 500-year-old stained glass. It’s so lofty, rich, and vast that visitors wander around like Pez dispensers stuck open, whispering, “Wow.” Drifting among the pillars, it’s easy to imagine a time when the light bulbs were candles and the tourists were pilgrims – when every window provided spiritual as well as physical light.
The cathedral’s spectacular altar –real gold on wood, by Flemish, French, and local artists – is one of the country’s best pieces of Gothic art. The complex composition shows the story of Jesus’ life, conveying the Christian message of salvation. The cathedral’s sacristy is a
mini-Prado, with masterpieces by the likes of Francisco de Goya, Titian, Diego Velázquez, Caravaggio, and Giovanni Bellini, not to mention 19 El Grecos.
Born in Greece and trained in Venice, Doménikos Theotokópoulos (tongue-tied friends just called him “The Greek”… El Greco) came to Spain to get work as a painter. He found employment in Toledo, where he developed his unique painting style, mixing icon-like faces from his Greek homeland, bold color and twisting poses from his time in Italy, and almost mystical spirituality from Catholic Spain.
Toledo’s Santa Cruz Museum holds a superb collection of El Greco paintings, including the impressive altarpiece Assumption of Mary. Finished one year before El Greco’s death, it’s the
culmination of his inimitable style, combining all his signature elements to express an otherworldly event. No painter before or since has captured the supernatural world better than El Greco. True El-Grecophiles will also want to visit the small El Greco Museum, built near the site of El Greco’s house. It’s worth a stop if only to see El Greco’s panoramic map of the city as it appeared in 1614 (commissioned to promote Toledo after the king moved to Madrid and the city was no longer Spain’s capital).
A day full of El Greco and the romance of Toledo after dark puts me in the mood for game and other traditional cuisine. Typical Toledo dishes include partridge (perdiz), venison (venado), wild boar (jabalí), roast suckling pig (cochinillo asado), or young lamb ( cordero– similarly roasted after a few weeks of mother’s milk). Plaza de Zocodover is busy with eateries serving basic food at affordable prices, and its people-watching scene is great. But it’s worth a few extra minutes – and the navigating challenge – to explore Toledo’s side streets and find places where you’ll be eating with locals as well as tourists.
After dinner, I like to enjoy a tasty leftover from Toledo’s Moorish days, almond-fruity mazapán. Shops all over town sell mazapán goodies in ready-made gift boxes, but I prefer to select my own. For a sweet and romantic evening finale, I pick up a few pastries and find a bench on the Plaza del Ayuntamiento. The fountain burbles to my right, Spain’s best-looking city hall is at my back, and before me is her top cathedral – built back when Toledo was Spain’s capital, and still shining brightly against the black night sky.
Broom Hilda Middletons
Toledo’s cathedral, with its vast interior and great collection of art, is one of Europe’s most impressive.
CREDIT:(Cameron Hewitt, Rick Steves’ Europe)
