Details of deaths in MCSO custody remain elusive
By Caroline Brauchler caroline@ocalagazette.com
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement has provided, unprompted, records of three cases of deaths in custody at the Marion County Jail that are under active investigation.
However, within each of the three Death in Custody
Questionnaires, every piece of information is redacted. This includes the decedent’s name, gender, race, ethnicity, birth year, date and time of death, location of death, type of facility where the death occurred, department or agency detaining the deceased, and the manner and circumstances of death. All three deaths are
being investigated by the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, which oversees the jail’s operation.
In the reports, discrepancies between records provided by the MCSO and the state have been noted. The “Gazette” has made the same records requests to the MCSO and the FDLE, records provided by the two agencies has differed.
In January, the “Gazette” received seven Death in Custody Reporting Act records from FDLE, in response to a request for all DCRA reports the state received from MCSO over the past five years.
When the “Gazette” requested from MCSO all the DCRA reports it
See FDLE page A2
Sen. McClain advocates for bill that would weaken local control of rural lands
By Jennifer Hunt Murty jennifer@ocalagazette.com
State Sen. Stan McClain this week explained his rationale for proposing a bill that, if approved, would take much of the control over land-use decisions from local governments while opening hundreds of thousands of agricultural acres to developers without any local review or oversight.
McClain, a residential builder and owner of McClain Construction LLC, spoke to the Senate Community Affairs Committee on Monday about the controversial measure Senate Bill 1118, which has generated significant concern and opposition since it was introduced earlier this month.
A longtime politician who served on the Marion County Board of County Commissioners for 12 years and then termed out as a State Representative for District 27, McClain is now Marion County’s sole State Senator (District 9.). His son, Matthew McClain, is a Marion
County Commissioner.
McClain has not responded to numerous “Gazette” requests to discuss his controversial bill, but his comments during the committee meeting provide some insight into his intentions.
“Members, you know the challenges with growth management is that people haven’t stopped moving to Florida and it doesn't look like they're going to do that anytime soon. Certainly, for those of you that maybe follow development or the housing market, it actually it has slowed down some,” said McClain citing “headwinds created through tariffs and that kind of stuff.”
“But you know one of the things that we have to always grapple with is how do we supply enough homes for the people that are moving here and certainly then we get into a back-and-forth between the communities that we live in and how much growth is taking place,” he continued. “But it doesn't change the fact that we have to find ways to make sure that housing is available for those people
that are moving here.”
McClain and State Rep. Kevin Steele, R-Pasco, have each filed identical bills that would wrest local control of development from cities and counties across the state. If passed, the new laws would supersede any local overlay zones of protection, including Marion County’s revered Farmland Preservation Area.
SB 1118 and House Bill 1209 summary sections state, in part, the measures authorize property owners “…to instead apply for administrative approval of a development regardless of future land use designations or comprehensive plan conflicts under certain circumstances;” require “that an authorized development be treated as a conforming use…;” and prohibit “local government from enacting or enforcing certain regulations or laws.”
The bills would also require “administrative approval of such development if it complies with certain
See McClain's bill, page A3
Mayra Ramirez needed urgent hospitalization before her death in custody
By Caroline Brauchler caroline@ocalagazette.com
On the day she was sent to jail, Mayra Ramirez told the judge she would not survive if incarcerated. Her premonition turned out to be true. After battling severe medical issues and near-constant pain, Ramirez died two years later while she was still held at the Marion County Jail.
During her incarceration, Ramirez made at least 33 urgent requests for medical care, often filing multiple requests in one day. Her requests include pleas of “Help me,” “I am in so much pain,” and “I don’t know how much longer I’m going to last.”
Ramirez, a 58-year-old woman from Ocala, was hospitalized four times while in custody, mostly for complications from pancreatitis and heart disease. The fourth time she arrived at AdventHealth Ocala Hospital was to pronounce her deceased.
Ramirez died on Sept. 7, 2023, after jail staff said she “turned blue and fell to the floor” at about 6:46 p.m. Marion County Fire Rescue was called in response to Ramirez exhibiting symptoms of “heart failure.” CPR began at 6:50 p.m., and she was then transported to the hospital and pronounced dead.
Ramirez’ death in custody is one of a series of similar incidents that raise concerns about the quality of
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Mayra Ramirez, 58, died in the custody of the Marion County Sheriff’s Office on Sept. 7, 2023. [Supplied]
Land on the east side of I-75, shown at the top, is the area were the new Buc-ee’s will be built along with the 49th Street off ramp. It is shown Tuesday, July 25, 2023, in Ocala, [Alan Youngblood/Special to the Ocala Gazette]
Lawmakers eye changes after 2024 hurricanes
By Jim Turner Florida News Service
TALLAHASSEE — From holding down property taxes on homes rebuilt after hurricanes to new post-storm rules for elections supervisors, the Florida House on Tuesday started moving forward with a proposal to address issues whipped up during the damaging 2024 hurricane season.
The House Natural Resources & Disasters Subcommittee unanimously approved a wideranging bill (HB 1535) that also seeks to look at shelter regulations, address debris cleanup in rural “fiscally constrained” counties and direct how cranes are positioned when storms approach landfall.
Bill sponsor Fiona McFarland, R-Sarasota, said the proposal is the product of “feedback from our local governments. It’s feedback from the Realtors. It’s feedback from homeowners associations, from builders, from environmentalists, emergency managers, and all of that is boiled into this bill.”
Rep. Lindsay Cross, D-St. Petersburg, suggested more clarity for long-term local government plans.
“The time after a storm is maybe one of the only opportunities when communities can look at being more resilient or being more proactive, when residents finally understand what it means to be impacted and how this could not only happen in the future but be worse,” Cross said.
The bill would prohibit counties under federal disaster declarations from Hurricane Debby, Hurricane Helene or Hurricane Milton from imposing moratoriums that affect rebuilding storm-damaged properties through Oct. 1, 2027. Local governments, school districts and special districts would
FDLE
Continued from page A1 had filed with the state, the agency provided 28 reports. Missing were DCRA reports on the deaths of Corey Merchant, who died at the hands of another inmate at the Marion County Jail; and for Patrick Wolfgang, who died before being transported to the jail. The “Gazette” asked the Fifth Circuit State Attorney’s Office which cases of deaths in custody it had investigated since 2021, from every law enforcement agency within Marion County. The State Attorney’s Office answered staff
also be prohibited from imposing impact fees when post-storm rebuilding doesn’t change previous land-use designations.
Also, residents would be allowed to rebuild homesteaded property up to 130 percent larger than the pre-hurricane “footprint” without facing increases in their appraised property values.
“Many of our residents that are in the coastal area had to lift as they had to elevate as they rebuild,” McFarland said. “And it’s almost impossible to lift your home and not have the footprint increase, whether it’s adding an external stairway or, you know, more provisions for your utilities. Almost everyone who is lifting their home to rebuild has to increase their footprint.”
The proposal also calls for state agencies to work with local governments to streamline permitting to repair and rebuild damaged structures.
Also under the proposal, if an emergency is declared by the governor within 60 days of an election, county elections supervisors could change locations of early voting sites, expand the early voting period to the day before an election and request approval from the secretary of state that early voting locations be used on election day.
Supervisors could also take steps such as sending vote-bymail ballots to displaced people. Contingency plans would need to be set in case elections are suspended, delayed or rescheduled due to an emergency.
Amy Keith, executive director of Common Cause Florida, called the proposal a “step in the right direction” for voters and a “strong start” for elections supervisors.
“No disaster-affected voters should be forced to submit more paperwork or drive across the
county just to cast their ballot,” Keith said. “What they need is accessible voting options and easy access to information about those options.”
The legislation also addresses a construction crane that wasn’t taken down before Hurricane Milton slammed St. Petersburg last year. The crane collapsed into an office building.
The bill would require that 24 hours before anticipated hurricane impacts, all hoisting equipment would have to be secured to comply with manufacturer recommendations, which could include removing advertising, laying down fixed booms where feasible and setting towers in a “weathervane position.”
The legislation also would require the Florida Division of Emergency Management to conduct a study on the statewide needs of emergency shelters, including accommodations for people with developmental disabilities and the availability of space for pets. The division would also be directed to coordinate debris removal with fiscally constrained counties in areas where emergencies have been declared.
Hurricane Debby and Hurricane Helene made landfall last year in rural Taylor County, while Hurricane Milton made landfall in Sarasota County.
Rep. Jason Shoaf, a Port St. Joe Republican whose district includes Taylor County, described the bill as “much needed” for North Florida’s Big Bend region. Shoaf added he looked forward to “getting a grip on the fiscal” impacts.
McFarland said she “cherry picked’ ideas from other bills in the House and Senate and intends to continue revising the bill. It needs to clear two more House panels before it could go to the full House.
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has investigated the deaths of Scott Whitley, Dennis Digenova and Patrick Wolfgang. Wolfgang was arrested by MCSO and died in the back of a MCSO vehicle while being transported to the hospital, according to the reports obtained from the State Attorney’s Office.
Corey Merchant died in custody days after a violent altercation with another inmate in the Gulf Pod of the Marion County Jail. No DCRA report was filed to FDLE for Merchant’s death, as MCSO said it did not classify Merchant as “in custody” at the time of his death.
“I was advised that Merchant was out of custody when he passed so he is not considered an inmate death. Therefore, there is no report,” wrote MCSO records specialist Taylor Gonzalez.
According to MCSO’s policy on news media relations, deaths in custody are considered a “newsworthy situation,” which would immediate notification of the agency’s public relations officer. Of the 30 deaths in custody since 2021, MCSO’s public information team has only notified the “Gazette” of two of those deaths in custody.
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Rep. Fiona McFarland, R-Sarasota, is proposing a wide-ranging bill to address hurricane-related issues. [Colin Hackley/Florida News Service]
McClain's bill
Continued from page A1
requirements.”
The bills propose no restrictions on minimum lot size and assumes 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.
McClain did not specify the source, but said he read a study that associated 30% of the cost of a new home is caused by “government regulatory issues.” He said his bills “merit discussion” due to “inconsistent application of the current laws that we have. So, we'll end up one day we're approving developments and the next day we try to stop development, and that's not consistent.”
McClain indicated it was his intention to continue the efforts in the Senate as he had expended them during the eight years he served Florida House, streamlining the development process.
McClain reported on his last personal financial disclosure that the bulk of his income comes from his residential construction company, McClain Construction LLC.
He also received approximately $12,324 in personal income from the Marion County Building Industry Association. In the past five years, McClain has consistently disclosed he receives income from the Marion County Building Industry; in 2020, that was as high as $46,000.
That same financial disclosure identified Tillman and Associates as one of the largest customers of McClain Construction, LLC, and has been so noted since 2022.
The principal of Tillman and Associates is David Tillman, who is also the president of the Marion County Building Industry Association and likely the largest developer doing business in Marion County.
Additionally, McClain’s political campaign contribution disclosures reflect significant contributions from Tillman and the building industry.
The Florida League of Counties spoke to the Senate Committee against McClain’s bill saying it fast tracked rural
lands subject for development leaving out the wishes of local communities.
“Chapter 163 [of the Florida Statutes] is called the Community Planning Act. When we talk about the Act, the focus is on the word “community.” We really don’t want to remove the community from these processes,” the spokesperson said.
A representative from the Florida Home Builders Association spoke in favor of the measure since the bill sought to further restrict local governments from increasing impact fees by more than 50%.
State Sen. Shevrin D. "Shev" Jones, D-Miami-Dade, expressed concern about the
definition related to ethanol production in McClain’s bill, a concern that was echoed in public comments to the senate committee.
Additionally, Jones asked McClain why the bill sought to impact land use regulations that had been in place since June 1, 2011.
McClain answered, “I believe it just goes back and reaches into some things that there was the ability to develop certain properties.”
“Are you not concerned by the potential overreach the bill represents by the state government when looking at local zoning and local communities that have already made the decisions about what does and does not meet the criteria for development?”
Jones asked McClain.
“I think that is why we are here, to have a discussion about what things that we need to do to help local governments move forward with development,” McClain answered.
Most of the Senate committee members indicated they had received hundreds of calls and emails on McClain’s bill.
Matthew Groholski from Orange County told the committee that over 70% of Orange County residents voted for a rural boundary and they did not want to lose it.
“I'll just remind you that Republicans, Democrats, Libertarians, hell, everybody in Orange County, voted for a rural boundary and rolling back those protections is an infringement on our county charter and our county constitution. I respectfully ask you vote nay on this harmful amendment,” Groholski said.
State Sen. Jason W. B. Pizzo, D-Broward, expressed concern that McClain’s bill was being presented to support a Central Florida builder developing in environmentally sensitive areas.
Pizzo said McClain would need to remove some of the “ickiness” from the bill before he could support it.
State Sen. Randy Fine, R-Brevard, and State Sen. Kathleen Passidomo, R-Collier, both expressed concerns with McClain’s bill but ultimately voted in favor of it to move it to the next committee.
Passidomo offered assurances that she’d work with McClain to make the bill something she could support on the Senate floor.
To watch the full meeting, visit this link: https:// thefloridachannel.org/ videos/3-17-25-senatecommittee-on-communityaffairs/ and start listening at the 1:52 timestamp.
CONTACT INFORMATION FOR STATE LEGISLATORS IS:
State Sen. Stan McClain, McClain.Stan.web@flsenate. gov, (352) 732-1249
State Rep. Ryan Chamberlin, ryan.chamberlin@flhouse.gov, (352) 635-0450
State Rep. Richard Gentry, richard.gentry@flhouse.gov, (386) 251-1100
State Rep. Yvonne Hinson, Yvonne.Hinson@flhouse.gov, (352) 264-4001
State Rep. JJ Grow, jj.grow@flhouse.gov, (850) 717-5023
State Rep. Judson Sapp, judson.sapp@flhouse.gov, (352) 496-3430
Sen. Stan McClain speaks during a Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis press conference about I-75 improvements at Big
A builder's perspective
David Tillman, president of the Marion County Building Industry Association and a longtime professional engineer, says the bill will have little impact in the county.
By Belea T. Keeney belea@magnoliamediaco.com
When David Tillman speaks to the Marion County Board of County Commissioners, the whole room listens. In a Southern drawl that shows his Georgia roots, Tillman regularly presents development applications to the Planning & Zoning board and the BOCC, typically representing clients who want to develop a new neighborhood or shopping center.
Tillman grew up in the building and construction industry and has decades of experience as a developer, engineer and planner.
He's not concerned about Senate Bill 1118, a measure filed by State Sen. Stan McClain, R-Marion, (with a companion piece in the State House by State Rep. Kevin Steele, R-Pasco) that has language that could take away local control of certain types of parcels .
SB 1118 and HB 1209 summary sections state, in part, that property owners will “instead apply for administrative approval of a development regardless of future land use designations or comprehensive plan conflicts under certain circumstances; require "that an authorized development be treated as a conforming use…;" and prohibit "local government from enacting or enforcing certain regulations or laws" on parcels surrounded by current residential zoning and of a certain size.
"I'm not on fire being in favor of this thing because I see it having very little effect," Tillman said in an interview on March 12. "What's occurring is that you have property owners that are kind of the 'last man standing' situation. So, everything around them has developed. There's a subdivision, north, south, east and west."
Tillman mentioned a recent example of the Sutton Place planned unit development (PUD) that was proposed for 3922 NE Jacksonville Road. The parcel is surrounded by mediumresidential density neighborhoods and is a stretch of farm and pastureland that was once a thoroughbred horse farm. The aerial photos still show the remnants of the oval track on the property.
Much of the public opposition and the board's objections were centered on the proposed density of 310 homes on just over 77 acres. After board discussion and seeing the lack of votes for the project, the developer withdrew the project from consideration.
That sort of example, Tillman said, is the type of development control that SB 1118 would address.
"He's (the property owner) is surrounded and he's got a farm," Tillman said. "Everybody came out and said, ‘Hey, we want that to stay a farm.’ That's an unreasonable request to make when everybody else around is a residential piece of property. That's kind of what this (SB 1118) is dealing with."
Tillman said he has talked about the bill with McClain but doesn't think that McClain intended to harm Marion County and specifically the Farmland Preservation Area.
"I know Stan measured it as how will this hurt our area and he doesn't see it that way," Tillman said." I don't think it would have an effect on us overall."
"The FPA is that line (of demarcation)," Tillman said. "Remember, Senator McClain was on the BOCC when this FPA line got created. He was one of the people who created it. So, he's not coming back and trying to destroy it, that's not the intention of the language at all."
Due to the specifics of the language in the bill, Tillman doesn't think that SB 1118 would negatively impact the FPA.
"It just wouldn't apply because where is there a piece of property inside the FPA that's surrounded on three sides by residential or urban uses?" Tillman asked. "It's just not something that would apply."
LOCAL PRESERVATION
GROUPS WORRIED
Local preservation groups have raised
concerns about the bill's "over-reach" into local development decisions and even prompted a formal letter of concern from Horse Farms Forever, directed to BOCC Chair Kathy Bryant on March 10.
The letter pinpointed a particular worry for rural property owners, writing, "One more example of preemption of local control is the bill takes charge of the urban growth boundary with the following language, 'A local government must treat an agricultural enclave that is adjacent to an urban service district as if it were within the urban service district.' Plus, if a parcel is approved as an agricultural enclave, then the next parcel could piggy-back that approval to qualify for the same development with only administrative approval required."
Bernie Little, president of HFF, said of the bill, "I'm sure developers are celebrating over its language." He said it's an "unprecedented" change in local control and state laws.
At press time, McClain, Bryant and county attorney Matthew Minter have not yet responded to “Gazette” requests for comment.
SOLVING A PROBLEM THAT DOESN’T EXIST HERE
Tillman said the bill solves a problem that he says exists as "more of a South Florida problem than it is here. (An example) is a piece of property surrounded by urban use on three sides. On the other boundary is a drainage canal that has (agricultural) land use and (agricultural) zoning over it. The other side of that canal is more residential and urban uses. That county commission is looking at it and saying you're right next to an (agricultural) piece of land that would be incompatible to change the land use. That's not really an (agricultural) piece of property; it's a canal that just happens to have an ag zoning on it."
The bill's language does address this specific topic: "Where a right-of-way or canal exists along the perimeter of a parcel, the perimeter calculations of the agricultural enclave must be based on the parcel or parcels across the right-of-way or canal." (Lines 216-219)
Tillman doesn't see the bill as a real threat to the FPA here "because there is no situation that exists that I can think of in our FPA that this would apply. It could apply to a property adjacent to the FPA,
yes."
The bill language 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)." There is no mention of the county's FPA protection area.
TILLMAN SEES URBAN GROWTH BOUNDARY AS PRODUCTIVE FOR THE COUNTY
Marion County has a unique mix of urban, rural, residential and recreational areas that Tillman appreciates.
"I love that we have such a balance in our community,” he said. “We have an UGB, we have an FPA, we have the forest, a great recreational region for our community as well. There are so many different components that bring a real balance."
A key to responsible and "good quality" planning, Tillman said, is to use the Urban Growth Boundary (UGB) as it was intended and to keep development out of the preservation areas.
"The UGB is centered around our city (Ocala), so the whole thing all these infill projects need is more density," Tillman explained. He thinks the infill parcels should have higher density than what most have right now.
"We don't want our growth to extend out into the FPA or the areas that we want to preserve. Then we have to have more density within that circle and concentric to where all the services exist. When you look at the south end of the county and you've got The Villages and that (U.S.) 441 corridor that literally has everything you can contemplate— Walmart, hospitals, movies, shopping centers—right there is the place where we should be putting development because (it is) where people can be served without driving 20 miles for (supplies.) They're six minutes from everything.”
HAS COMPASSION FOR THOSE AFFECTED BY CHANGE
Tillman grew up on a 9-acre farm in Valdosta, Georgia, one that had a longstanding active railroad track behind the property and eventually had high-end residential development and industrial parcels on the family farm's road. So,
he has empathy for people who are worried about new neighborhoods and development of area farms.
"I understand their passion for keeping what they have. My heart has compassion for them. But also, people have a perception with a significant change occurring, like a subdivision moving in next door, and it's not (a big change)," Tillman said, adding that it’s human nature for people to be nervous about the new and the unknown.
He doesn't think Marion County residents need to be concerned about the bill.
"Inside the UGB there may be some parcels that are affected," he said. "But when you start looking at those acreage limitations, no, I don't think there's a lot that exists at those sizes. There's not a huge number of multi-hundreds of acres in Marion County.
“World Equestrian Center has 4,000plus acres, On Top of the World and Calesa are vested Developments of Regional Impact. The larger things in our community are well-established. I would challenge you to find the parcels that the SB criteria. I'm sure there are some, but I'm not sure which ones they are."
Tillman sees the bill as a potential positive for some developers working on some lands.
"I'll use the legislation if it works for a way that's suitable," he said. "Remember, it's a three- to nine-month process for small- or large-use comp plan changes. It's good business to use this bill if it works for the business."
CONNECTIONS:
David Tillman and Senator McClain have professional connections. Tillman is the founder and CEO of Tillman & Associates Engineering, LLC in Ocala. He is also president of the Marion County Building Industry Association and McClain is listed as its chair of Governmental Affairs committee. McClain listed income of $12,324 from the MCBIA in his 2023 Form 6 financial disclosure along with his senate income of $27,366, a paid position from the state of Florida. According to Florida public records, McClain is also the authorized agent and manager of McClain Construction, LLC. That business lists Tillman & Associates as a "secondary source of income" on McClain's 2023 Form 6.
Bernie Little, Horse Farm Forever president, left, talks with David Tillman of Tillman and Associates, right, during the Horse Farms Forever Conversations About Conservation Summit in Ocala on Nov. 14, 2022. [File photo by Bruce Ackerman]
Ocala Housing Authority holds meetings
Uneasy
public housing residents are concerned about possible government funding cutbacks.
By Andy Fillmore andy@ocalagazette.com
Officials from the Ocala Housing Authority hosted three public meetings on March 13 in response to a barrage of calls from residents of four public housing complexes who are concerned about the effects of possible governmental funding cutbacks
OHA, a U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Public Housing Agency, operates subsidized housings for eligible families with 185 units in Ocala, at Pine Gardens at 515 SW 2nd Ave.; Shady Hollow, at 802 SW 19th Ave. Road; Pavillion Oaks, at 2203 NW 1st Ave.; and Deer Run, at 2804 NE 4th Court, according to its website. The HUD website states that public housing is “for low-income families, the elderly and persons with disabilities.”
“We do not know what the final (funding) levels will be,”
OHA CEO Gwendolyn Dawson told about a dozen residents at the first of the meetings, held at Pine Gardens, a 20-unit public housing complex near the downtown post office.
Dawson, who has been with OHA for more than 25 years, indicated that HUD funding uncertainty runs throughout the system that channels finances to her agency.
“HUD in Jacksonville, they don’t know,” about future funding levels, she stated.
Dawson said although the budget that Congress will pass is yet an unknown, OHA “was not hiding” and officials wanted to hold the meetings out of “compassion and concern” for residents in the wake of a “lot of calls” and some feelings of “anxiety.” She said a second reason for the meeting was to be sure the local agency had cell phone numbers for residents to facilitate text notices.
OHA’s Deputy Director Janell Diaz and Property Manager Michelle Nelson joined Dawson at the Pine Gardens meeting.
Diaz noted in a later email that a one-bedroom flat in Pine Gardens runs $687 monthly and that the portion of rent paid by
the resident varies based on a formula applied to their income. OHA oversees the amount, typically 70%, of rent paid by HUD and manages the balance of rent due from qualified residents.
“The public housing resident's portion of the rent varies. Their portion of the rent is based on 30 percent of the monthly adjusted income, or annual income less deductions allowed by the regulations. OHA is only responsible for the management and operation of the public housing properties. If the funding is reduced, then that will mean it will impact our operations and ability to manage the properties,” Diaz wrote.
Local DAR group turns 100
The Ocala chapter has been instrumental in the preservation of Fort King.
By Andy Fillmore andy@ocalagazette.com
The members of the Ocala chapter of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution are celebrating their 100th anniversary this month.
“For the past 100 years, the Ocala DAR chapter has been present, helping during the war efforts, encouraging veterans and servicemen and women, providing scholarships to local students and preserving historic landmarks, specifically Fort King,” Renee Coventry, regent of the chapter wrote in an email.
The chapter is holding special events for their members this month and, in collaboration with the American Battlefield Trust, is sponsoring “The American Revolution Experience Traveling
Exhibition,” which highlights people’s lives during the era of the Revolutionary War. The touring display can be seen 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. through March 21 in the North Hall at Christ the King Anglican Church at 4440 SE 3rd Ave., Ocala. Admission is free.
The local DAR Chapter was founded during a 1925 luncheon, according to the Florida State Society DAR website.
“The Ocala Chapter, NSDAR, was organized in March of 1925. Eleven women attended a meeting at the home of Luella Gary Helvenston. A six-course luncheon was served, and the ladies were presented with the idea to establish a Daughters of the American Revolution chapter in Ocala. Today, we are more than 145 members strong, own a historical and memorial property at Fort King, a National Historic
“A HUD funding reduction will not impact the portion that the resident currently pays, since their portion is based on their annual income. However, reduced funding could potentially impact the utility allowance assistance the housing authority provides residents,” she stated.
Mary, a seven-year resident at Pine Gardens, is a certified nurse’s aide by profession but, due to brain and neck surgery, has not been able to work. She has been paying her living expenses from savings. If those funds run out, “I can live in my truck,” she said.
Romona, also a seven-year resident, recently lost her internet related job. She heard
Dawson’s “wait and see” message at the Pine Gardens meeting. She said she loves living at Pine Gardens and “loves her neighbors.”
One Pine Gardens resident mused after the meeting that future funding all hinged on the Trump administration in Washington while another said she’s just “going with the flow” and that, “God’s got his hands on this.”
To learn more, go to ocalahousing.org and hud.gov
Site, and our interactive and informative meetings still center around a luncheon,” the website states.
According to dar.org/nationalsociety/historic-sites-andproperties/fort-king, “On Feb. 4, 2004, Fort King was declared a National Historical Landmark. This was the birthplace of Ocala, FL and named after the extinct Timucan Indians. Fort King was built around 1827 and was the site of military headquarters built to protect nearby settlers. This site includes one acre of land owned by the Ocala DAR chapter and is now leased to the city of Ocala/Marion County with the purpose of making this historical site available to the public, to preserve and protect it because of its historical significance.
The Ocala Chapter, NSDAR marked the property in 1933. It
purchased in 1927 an acre of land to protect the original burial site for both soldiers and civilians.
After the Seminal Wars ended, the bodies were moved to St. Augustine.”
Coventry provided the following list of members who have been recognized for their contributions:
* 50 years uninterrupted service to the Ocala Chapter: Kathie Radcliffe
* DAR Distinguished Citizen Medals to Veterans & Daughters: Joyce Gaines and Diane Trice
* DAR Historic Preservation Award: Kathy Walkup Sheppard for preserving the oral stories of Marion County
* DAR Woman in American History: FSSDAR State Regent, Cindy Addison
To learn more, go to fssdar.com/ Ocala, dar.org and battlefield.org
Photos by Bruce Ackerman Ocala Gazette
Ramona Hopkins looks over mail in her apartment at Pine Gardens following the meeting.
Mae McBride holds her great granddaughter, Lyric, 2, during an Ocala Housing Authority meeting with residents at Pine Gardens in Ocala.
Gwendolyn Dawson, CEO of the Ocala Housing Authority, speaks during a meeting with residents of Pine Gardens on Southwest 2nd Avenue in Ocala, Fla. on Thursday, March 13, 2025. Dawson held the meeting because many residents were worried about the possible shutdown of the U.S. government, which could lead to a loss of Housing and Urban Development Department funding.
The Ocala chapter of the DAR owns a historical and memorial piece of property on the campus of the Fort King National Historic Landmark. [File photo by Bruce Ackerman]
MCPS renews contract for law enforcement in schools
By Lauren Morrish lauren@ocalagazette.com
The Marion County School Board agreed to an initial $16.3 million contract on March 13 with three local law enforcement agencies to provide School Resource Officers, rather than allowing the Marion County Sheriff’s Office to take over for all school safety.
The renewed SRO contract will be enacted through 2028 to continue provisions from MCSO, the Ocala Police Department and the Belleview Police Department to safeguard Marion County Public Schools.
At the March 13 work session, Safe Schools Coordinator Dennis McFatten said the current threeyear SROs contract that began in 2022 ends on June 30, 2025, and the school board needed to renew or modify who would provide the officers going forward.
Under the Marjory Stoneman Douglas Act, passed in 2018 by former Gov. Rick Scott, a law enforcement officer must be present at every school in the district during regular operating hours.
As the existing contract is soon coming to an end, MCSO negotiated a less expensive contract for 2025-28 that would allow MCSO to be the sole provider of SROs for all schools across the district.
Currently, McFatten said MCSO supplied 40 SROs and one roamer, OPD supplied 21 SROs and BPD supplied one SRO across school campuses for the 2024-25 school year.
The total cost for these 63 officers was $4.9 million, with each SRO averaging $78 thousand in annual salaries. McFatten shared a cost comparison chart with the board, explaining three possible scenarios for them to select from for a 2025-28 contract.
With Scenario 1, all three agencies would continue providing SROs for the county with an increased number of officers and increased total cost. Under Scenario 2, MCSO would be the sole provider for all officers at a lower cost. Scenario 3 was
not considered by the board.
Marion County Sheriff Billy Woods and OPD Chief Mike Balken shared their opinions at the work session on the best way to proceed with the SRO contract.
“In any dynamics, regardless of what it may be, the perfect scenario is one entity that oversees something, not multiple,” Woods said.
He said scenario 2 would be the best-case scenario, but assured the public that Balken and the current law enforcement officers prioritize student safety first, so the three entities would put aside any disconnect and work together.
In 2022, the school board rejected a proposal from MCSO to take over the district’s Department of Safe Schools, opting instead to keep McFatten in charge of safety standards
in coordination with law enforcement agencies.
Balken said, although he agrees with almost all of Woods' comments, he said, “I am going to stand here today and tell you that I absolutely do believe that all of our city’s schools should be staffed only by city cops.”
Balken said Ocala officers are in the schools building positive relationships with the students daily through mentorship and crime prevention strategies.
“I believe what’s best for Ocala is to have an SRO that has a truly vested interest, in not only what occurs on school grounds during school hours, but what also occurs in the surrounding neighborhoods,” Balken said. “I believe they should have a vested interest in not just the kid but the family and the neighborhood nearby.”
He said OPD does a good
job of ensuring the school and community’s safety.
In the cost comparison chart for 2025-26, Scenario 1 has a total cost of $5.3 million for 65 SROs, including 41 MCSO officers and one roamer, 22 OPD SROs and one BPD SRO. The total will increase to $5.4 million for 2026-27 and have a small increase again for 2027-28.
One SRO provided by the MCSO is $75 thousand and one SRO provided by OPD is over $95 thousand, posing a $20 thousand difference and a higher total price with Scenario 1 than Scenario 2, which does not include OPD officers.
School Board Member Sarah James said she “struggles” with the higher cost of OPD officers compared to MCSO officer costs and believes the city should be paying what the county is paying.
“Unfortunately for Chief
Balken, he is not in charge of his money,” James said. “He doesn’t have the discretion to decide, like the sheriff does, how much he’s going to charge us; and so, I do not agree that there should be such a varying cost between the two agencies, and I believe whole heartedly that safety in our schools is a community responsibility not a school responsibility.”
Scenario 2 costs $4.9 million for 66 SROs, which are all provided by the MCSO. Scenario 2 supplies one more additional officer than Scenario 1, and Scenario 1 will have a higher cost for the following two years up to 2028 because OPD officers are included and have higher wages.
“While I am all about controlling costs, I am not willing to do that on the backs of our children or our school employees,” School Board Member Nancy Thrower said. “I want the people with the training and the law enforcement, ideally that are closest to each specific community school to be the ones embedded there.”
School Board Member Allison Campbell said she was comfortable with Scenario 1 as well.
“Rather than the money changing, if it’s not broke don’t fix it,” Campbell said.
Vice-Chair Eric Cummings also backed Scenario 1 and agreed with Campbell that if the system works, keep it working. He acknowledged the price difference, but said the city has a different dynamic with retirement and benefits, affording little leeway.
When Chair Lori Conrad called for consensus, four board members were confident in renewing the SRO contract and using the first scenario’s strategy, while James said she would support the board’s decision, she wants to start this conversation months before consensus for future contracts.
The 2025-28 renewed contract will be approximately $16.3 million to afford all three agencies' officers.
“I’m a proponent of safety no matter what the cost is because you can’t put a value on a life,” Cummings said.
Marion County proposes impact fee rates for EMS/Fire Impact
fees are paid by developers to help offset the costs of growth, including infrastructure.
By Caroline Brauchler caroline@ocalagazette.com
Marion County and city of Ocala officials are beginning negotiations to bring back impact fees for fire and emergency medical services.
Fire rescue impact fees were originally adopted in Marion County in 2002, suspended in 2010 during the economic downturn and then were repealed in 2015 by ordinance, said Marion County Fire Rescue Chief James Banta at a March 13 joint meeting between the city and county.
“Currently, Marion County does not collect fire or EMS impact fees. This means that while new development increases demand on our emergency services, there is no dedicated funding mechanism to help offset the cost of expanding our infrastructure to meet that demand,” Banta said.
Marion County has an estimated population of 419,000 people, with a projected annual growth rate of 9%. Marion is ranked 17th out of Florida’s 67 counties and its residential permit growth rate is ranked 15th, Banta said.
“The proposed impact fees aim to address this by ensuring
that new growth contributes its fair share for the capital cost required,” Banta said. Impact fees are one-time payments made by developers for every new housing unit built, to offset the cost of growth caused.
A study was conducted by an outside consultant, Benesch, to determine the revenue needs for fire and EMS services countywide. If the impact fee rates recommended by the consultant were instated at 100%, the rates would be as
follows:
Single family (1,500 square feet or less): $871
Single family (1,501 to 2,499 square feet): $991
Single Family (2,500 square feet and greater): $1,090
Multi-family (Mobile home): $841
Multi-family (Senior adult housing, detached): $596
Multi-family (Senior adult housing, attached): $403
At a low-end estimate for the number of houses built, this
rate would bring in a projected revenue of about $5.9 million over the next five years. At the high-end estimate, it will bring in a projected revenue of about $7.3 million over five years.
The consultant came up with the rates by looking at the different land uses, then coming up with the amount of people that are associated with those land uses, Banta said.
From 2019 until 2023, the number of residential permits in the fire rescue service area
averaged at about 4,800 per year. But, from 2021 to 2023, that number increased significantly, with an average of about 6,000 residential permits per year, according to Benesch.
Benesch is the same consultant group that conducted the study for the Marion County School Board to determine at which rates the school district should reinstate impact fees. The school board negotiated with the city, county and developers for over a year before finally getting impact fees approved in 2024.
The county already collects a fire assessment, a fee tacked on to every property tax bill outside the Ocala city limits. It has remained at an average of $199 per household. In the last couple of years, Ocala has increased its fire assessment fee to $364.15 for a single-family home with a square footage between 1,601 and 2,500.
Moving forward, the Marion County Board of County Commissioners have requested that the Ocala City Council members come up with feedback by the time the topic is revisited on April 15.
To instate the impact fees in both the city boundaries and the unincorporated areas of the county, both parties must come to an agreement on the rates and a collection plan.
Marion County Fire Rescue Chief James Banta, right, speaks as Commissioners Craig Curry, left, and Michelle Stone, center, listen during a joint workshop at the Marion County Commission auditorium in Ocala, Fla. on Thursday, March 13, 2025. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2025.
File Photo: Ocala Police Chief Mike Balken, left, talks with Marion County Sheriff Billy Woods, right, before the start of the Ocala City Council meeting at Ocala City Hall in Ocala, Fla. on Tuesday, July 6, 2021. Shane Alexander, the former Ocala Fire Chief, was fired from his position last week by Ocala City Manager Sandra Wilson. The Ocala City Council voted not to remove Wilson from her position as City Manager for firing Alexander during the meeting. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2021.
Mayra Ramirez
Continued from page A1 care inmates at the county facility receive. The MCSO, which operates the jail, has reported 29 deaths at the facility from 2021 to 2024.
Heart of Florida Health Care is contracted to provide medical care at the jail. Heart of Florida representatives have told the “Gazette” that the agency cannot provide comment on specific patients’ medical care.
Two days before her death, Ramirez had been coughing up blood, a condition known as hemoptysis. Rather than being taken to the hospital as she had been the two previous times she was coughing up blood, she was only taken to the jail’s infirmary.
On the evening of Sept. 7, Ramirez told medical staff she was suffering from epigastric pain. When she was asked to get up to take her medication, she struggled. The nurse went to check on another inmate and when she came back Ramirez fell to the floor and “turned blue.”
MCFR records indicate that at the time of her death, Ramirez was on the medications buspirone, an anxiety treatment; hydroxyzine, used to treat anxiety; mirtazapine, an antidepressant; quetiapine, used to treat bipolar and schizophrenia; and spironolactone, which is used to treat high blood pressure.
Ramirez was jailed after failing to appear in court for a July 2021 hearing on a charge of DUI manslaughter after a November 2019 crash on Interstate 75 that left a woman dead. Circuit Judge Lisa Herndon ordered Ramirez to be jailed in September 2021. Ramirez was never tried in court for the DUI manslaughter charge, which was dismissed after her death.
Ramirez’s mother, Blanky Bradshaw, told the “Gazette” that her daughter often said she knew she would die before leaving the jail.
Bradshaw told the “Gazette” that at the time of the 2019 car crash, Ramirez was on pain medication prescribed by a doctor after another car accident years before. Bradshaw said her daughter had become reliant on the drugs due to her many health issues.
“I'm not perfect. Nobody's perfect, but I know my kids,” Bradshaw said. “She was not drunk. She was taking medication, and she was not intentionally driving under the influence.”
Ramirez had been prescribed alprazolam, an anti-anxiety medication, by a doctor prior to the 2019 crash at a dose of one tablet, three times a day. Nine days before the crash, her dosage was lowered by her doctor, but the prescription she picked up from the pharmacy was for the previous higher dose, according to court records obtained through the Marion County Clerk of Court.
Toxicologist Andres Lugo testified in court at a pre-trial hearing that Ramirez was not under the influence at the time of the crash as the medication
was prescribed by a doctor and unknowingly taken at the wrong dose, court records show.
The state successfully argued that the defense did not provide a sufficient factual basis for an involuntary intoxication defense. Ramirez was represented by Assistant Public Defender Theodore Riquelme. She was denied bond.
As soon as she entered the jail, her requests for medical help began. On Sept. 3, she requested “emergency medical attention,” telling jail staff that she had a deteriorated spine, was wheelchair bound and had been disabled since 2005.
While Ramirez was being booked into the jail, Heart of Florida, which contracts with Marion County to provide medical services at the jail, instructed that she be given a wheelchair for any longdistance walking.
In the medical assistance request forms she filed, Ramirez often said she didn’t have access to a wheelchair and had to walk long distances despite her disability. She described her back, hip and knee joints as being “bone on bone” and that she suffered from extreme pain and often fell.
While medical records show that Ramirez’s symptoms related to pancreatitis; heart issues; back, neck and knee pain; and gastrointestinal issues continued until the time of her death, Ramirez was not sent to the hospital for any of her concerns in the year leading up to her death.
Ramirez also was diagnosed with bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder. Records show that Ramirez was seen frequently for her mental health issues while in jail and was consistently on medication to treat psychiatric disorders.
From the time Ramirez entered the jail in September 2021 until July 2022, Dr. Ivette Colon Reyes was the medical director at the Marion County Jail. While Colon was there, Ramirez was treated at the hospital three times for severe medical issues, related to the heart and pancreas and for mobility issues.
In July 2022, Dr. Jose Rafael Rodriguez took over as the medical director for Marion County and Sumter County jails under a Heart of Florida contract.
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.
REQUEST FOR BOND
On June 7, 2022, a hearing was held to reconsider Ramirez’s bond, presided over by Judge Lisa Herndon. This was the third hearing where Ramirez asked to be let out on bond.
Colon testified the jail’s medical facility could not provide the level of care that was necessary for Ramirez’s ailments.
“I have a nerve root disorder, as well as disk degeneration…cervical degeneration,” Ramirez said. “Therefore, it radiates pain through my arms and through my back at all times. I am in need of my cervical injections pain management that I get every three to six months.”
Through Ramirez’s many requests for care within the jail, she often cited her chronic pain as an issue. She told the judge that she often needed help from other inmates getting out of bed, standing, walking and even showering.
“Both of my knees are bone-on-bone…I have always gotten pain medication and cortisone injections on my knees because it is advanced osteoporosis arthritis. It is not only on the kneecaps, but through the body, and that’s one of the pain things,” Ramirez said.
Colon said Ramirez had access to only lighter medications for pain and inflammation, such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen, but she cannot provide any controlled medications unless a patient is terminal.
“She’s not getting the pain medication that she was getting on the outside because unfortunately within the jail I cannot order Percocets or Roxicets or any controlled Type II medications unless the patient is terminal,” Colon said.
Ramirez told the judge that because of the osteoporosis, she has suffered many falls since entering the jail. By the time of this June 2022 hearing, Ramirez said she had asked for a wheelchair in September, October, November, December and January of 2021 through 2022, but that the detention deputies do not provide her any walking aids despite Colon ordering it for her.
Colon testified Ramirez always had access to a wheelchair while she was visiting the infirmary but that Colon had no control over whether Ramirez had access to any wheelchair or mobility aid in the housing units.
Additionally, Ramirez testified that she suffered from heart conditions such as tachycardia and arrythmia. Ultimately, Ramirez’s death was determined to have been caused by heart failure.
In reconsidering bond for Ramirez, the judge took into account her history of a wet reckless conviction in 2007, which is a less severe conviction for reckless driving associated with drugs or alcohol; and convictions for a DUI and battery of a law enforcement officer in 2009; and disorderly
conduct in 2016.
“Based upon her priors and the actions in this case that I have read in the (probable cause), I’m not comfortable releasing her, so your motion for bond is denied,” Herndon said.
MEDICAL HISTORY IN JAIL:
On Dec. 28, 2021, Ramirez was sent to the AdventHealth emergency room for a hypotensive episode. When she returned from the hospital, she was housed in the infirmary.
In inmate requests filed Jan. 28, 2022, Ramirez pleaded multiple times for care, expressing extreme pain and discomfort.
“Please! I’m in so much pain! My hip and leg (left side) is bone on bone. I have had almost a dozen falls,” she wrote. “Nurse Sawme informed me that Dr. Colon was going to see me last week and yet I’m still waiting. Please help! I don’t know how much longer I’m going to last.”
On the same day, she filed another report saying: “It has been over 24 days that I have been requesting an appointment to be seen by Dr. Colon, MCJ medical director, due to my heart condition and my physical disabilities. Please help … I am still waiting in pain.”
Ramirez was transported to AdventHealth for abdominal pain and hemoptysis, or coughing up blood, twice in May of 2022—once on May 9 and again on May 22.
Her records show that she was experiencing pain to the epigastric area, radiating to the left upper abdomen and to the back, and that she was coughing up blood that was a bright red color.
On July 16, 2022, X-rays conducted show that Ramirez was again coughing up blood. She continued to strongly ask for treatment for pain in her stomach. Providers ordered that Ramirez have
an endoscopy scheduled with a gastroenterologist. She also injured her foot in a recent fall, records show.
Ramirez was again sent to AdventHealth for her concerns. She was diagnosed with syncope and a nondisplaced fracture of the fifth metatarsal bone of the left foot, records show.
Inmate requests from Ramirez in November 2022 indicate that she had not received the medication she needed after an appointment with Rodriguez the week prior. During that visit, Rodriguez noted that Ramirez had made multiple complaints for chronic pain issues and heartburn.
In December 2022, Ramirez told providers that she had been having abdominal pain for about three months. On Dec. 7, 2022, she was examined and treated for pancreatitis. Rodriguez told her to come back if the pain worsened, which she did in early January 2023.
In the first week of January 2023, Ramirez was seen for multiple sick calls regarding her abdominal pain. Rodriguez noted that her pain had worsened since last her visit over concerns of pancreatitis on Dec. 7, 2022.
Ramirez was placed on a schedule to receive routine sick calls often weekly or biweekly in the year leading up to her death, infirmary records show. Records show that her health issues only continued from January to September 2023, but she was not sent to the hospital.
Ramirez again began coughing up blood on Sept. 5. She was sent to the infirmary, until she collapsed and became unresponsive on the evening of her death.
She was sent to AdventHealth and was examined at 7:07 p.m., but by that time she was already being kept alive only by CPR.
Bradshaw said she
spoke to her daughter on the phone daily, sometimes twice a day in the morning and at night. She began to grow concerned when she didn’t hear from her the night before and the morning of her death.
“I was very worried, because I just saw her yesterday morning and she was in such a bad pain that she had to cut off the visit,” Bradshaw said. “That was very strange for her, because she loved to talk, and that was the only way she was in in touch with the outside.”
Bradshaw said that at about midnight on the night of her daughter’s death, deputies showed up at her door. Being 76 years old at the time, Bradshaw told deputies she wouldn’t speak to them until her son arrived.
“I said, ‘I'm not going to open the door for you, because I know that you're bringing bad news, and I don't want to hear,’” she said.
The deputies then informed her that her daughter had died in the jail. Bradshaw said she never received a call from any jail staff to explain the circumstances of Ramirez’s death and has undergone a costly and time-intensive search for answers ever since.
Bradshaw said she often called the jail to demand her daughter be hospitalized, and that she would pay for her care if her daughter could get the medical attention she needed.
Bradshaw said after her daughter died, she called again and again to speak to anyone who could give her more information.
“They called me once— to go and pick up the box of her belongings,” Bradshaw said.
Now, a year and a half later, Bradshaw says the box remains untouched.
“It’s in the garage, because I don't have the heart to open that and start digging in there,” she said.
Big “Spring Fling” yard sale is March 29
Proceeds from the Grace Episcopal Church Women event will benefit local woman and children.
Staff report
The Grace Episcopal Church Women would like to invite everyone in the area to do some spring cleaning and donate items for their big annual “Spring Fling” yard sale. And then come back a few days later and do some shopping!
Items may be dropped off at the Grace Episcopal Parish Hall at 505 SW Broadway St. on March 26 or 27. The sale will be held from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on March 29.
The annual multi-family yard sale will include quality pre-loved items from books to baubles, garden pots and tools, licensed
sports gear, furniture, kitchen appliances, art, home décor, edible donations and more.
The yard sale follows the huge success of the Holiday Bazaar, which the ECW group hosts annually.
“Whether you support the yard sale with a donated item or make purchases, the ECW appreciates you,” stated one member in an email message.
Proceeds from the yard sale will benefit Grace Episcopal Church’s outreach mission to support local women and children in need.
For more information, contact Elaine, the ECW yard sale chairwoman, at (704) 840-6897.
Crowds greet Budweiser Clydesdales in downtown Ocala
Staff report
The heavy “clomp” of the hooves of the famous Budweiser Clydesdales rang out as a team from Warm Springs, Missouri, paraded around the Ocala downtown square the evening of March 17.
The team, with a regal dalmatian sitting beside the drivers, moved out from the Ocala Downtown Market and proceeded down the OTrak, went by Citizens’ Circle and then looped around the square. They made stops along the route for special deliveries and photo ops.
The crowd was very receptive and very festive, given that it was St. Patty’s Day.
The team also made an appearance on March 15 at the Live Oak International event. Their visit to Ocala was made possible by Tri-Eagle Sales.
This spring inspired stained-glass artwork will be for sale during the “Spring Fling” yard sale. [Photo courtesy Grace Episcopal Church Women]
Photos by Bruce Ackerman Ocala Gazette
Members of O'Malley's Alley, including owner George Carrasco, third from left, pose with members of the Budweiser Clydesdale team.
Blake Hunter, 11, of St. Augustine, waves an Irish flag as he waits for the Budweiser Clydesdales.
Brittany Seip of Indianapolis watches with her son, Josia, 1 1/2, as the Budweiser Clydesdales parade around the square.
The Budweiser Clydesdales are regal horses and are well known around the nation.
The iconic dalmatian watches from the top of the beer wagon as the team is driven around the square.
The Budweiser Clydesdales from Warm Springs, MO, are driven around the Ocala downtown square on Monday, March 17, 2025.
All aboard for intrigue and adventure
The Civic is staging the classic “Murder on the Orient Express.”
By Jamie Berube Special to the Gazette
John Paul Anderson Jr. was diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome at an early age. He said he spent his younger years trying to fit in.
“I have been an awkward fly on the wall on many occasions,” Anderson said.
He spent most of his early years in school observing others. In college, however, Anderson blossomed.
“It was not until I got to college where I studied things like radio broadcasting, theater, music and American Sign Language that I began to blossom into the well-rounded person I am today,” Anderson said.
This week, Anderson will make his debut at the Ocala Civic Theatre, recently rebranded as The Civic, starring as renowned detective Hercule Poirot in Agatha Christie’s classic murder mystery “Murder on the Orient Express.”
From March 20 through April 6, Tony-nominated playwright Ken Ludwig’s theatrical reimagining of the 1934 novel is live on stage at The Civic. Set in the winter of the 1930s, the story follows a cast of 12 tenacious characters on their journey aboard a luxurious locomotive called the Orient Express as they travel from Istanbul to Yugoslavia. In Ludwig’s adaptation, the play maintains the core storyline of Christie’s novel with an infusion of wit and theatrical flair.
Anderson was about to turn in for the night when he got the call that he landed the lead as Poirot.
“They called me right before going to bed, I didn't think much of it until the next day when I saw it in writing,” he said. “I honestly did not think I would get the part.”
On stage, Anderson owns the role as the Belgium detective. His unassuming and endearing stage presence dominates the show. Prior to his role as Poirot, Anderson played Adam in “The Shape of Things” at MacMurray College and Jock in “Columbinus” at Lincoln College, both in Illinois.
The audience follows Poirot as he investigates the murder of an abrasive American businessman named Samuel Ratchett, played by Janik Buranosky, who also plays the role of Col. Arbuthnot, a stoic Scottish military man, characterized as honorable and reserved.
Prior to his roles as Ratchett and Arbuthnot, Buranosky played roles such as Davey in “Newsies,” in the ensemble in “Sweeney Todd,” Frank in “Witch” and Brick in “Escape to Margaritaville.”
After the train becomes
stuck overnight in a snowdrift in Yugoslavia, Ratchett is found dead after being stabbed eight times in his compartment and Poirot’s hunt for clues begins.
Those aboard the train all become suspects as Poirot pursues a motive. Director Ray Ficca describes the play as a wild ride.
“You’ve got Poirot and a train full of characters stuck onboard with a murderer. They’re trapped, and their only way out is to solve the crime before it’s possibly too late,” Ficca said.
Ficca has been an actor, director and producer in the Washington, D.C., area for 35 years. He carries more than 150 professional productions to his credit and served as artistic director of the Totem Pole Playhouse from 2008-2013. Ficca is president of the National Conservatory of Dramatic Arts in Washington, D.C.
This is not Ficca’s first experience with Agatha Christie’s plays. He considers her the gold standard when it comes to mystery writers.
“Her perfectly crafted, intricate plots have been, without a doubt, the most influential in the genre,” Ficca said. “She always keeps the reader, and the audience, guessing until the very end.”
As Poirot detangles a web of lies and hidden identities aboard the train, he finds that each passenger is connected to an infamous kidnapping case involving a young child named Daisy Armstrong, played by kindergartener Adelaina Brahim, who is new to The Civic stage. Poirot unveils that Samuel Ratchett’s real name is Bruno Cassetti and he is responsible for Daisy Armstrong’s murder.
In Ludwig’s adaptation, there are many distinct characters.
These include Poirot and the roles of the head waiter and train conductor played by Joel Brahim. Brahim is returning to The Civic stage, where he previously played in roles that include Benny Perkins in “Hands on a Hardbody,” the Big Bad Wolf in “Shrek,” Mungojerry in “Cats” and Smudge in “Forever Plaid.”
The remaining eight characters include Monsieur Bouc, the director of the Orient Express, played by Mario Villella, who previously appeared in the ensemble of The Civic’s “Beauty and the Beast.” Princess Natalya Dragomiroff, a wealthy, elderly Russian noblewoman, is played by Danuta Jacob, who last appeared on The Civic stage as Alexandra in “The Velocity of Autumn.” Brian Creary plays Hector MacQueen, Ratchett’s anxious personal secretary. Creary’s previous screen credits at The Civic extend to playing Dr. Watson in “Baskerville” and Scratch in “Witch.” Iyanna Lynell is new to The Civic in her role as young Mary Debenham, a composed, intelligent Englishwoman who works as a governess. Izzy Rose is also making her debut at The Civic in her role as Greta Ohlsson, a cheeky, prudish Swedish missionary and nurse. Fifthgrade student Sophia Upham also plays Daisy Armstrong. Upham previously played the King in “The Seussification of Romeo and Juliet” at The Civic. Laura Bradford captures the character of Helen Hubbard, a boisterous, flamboyant American widow. Bradford embodies the gaudy character with gumption and zeal. Finally, Lily Capote plays the exotic, beautiful Countess Elena Andrenyi. Capote most recently appeared in the ensembles of “Cinderella”
tales of putting wrongs to right.
“We learn from the very beginning that the murderer was a terrible person and deserved what he had coming to him. So, was it revenge, or was it justice?” Murphy said.
“Justice and revenge are themes that universally resonate with humanity. You want to know whodunit in this particular story because you’re kind of cheering for them,” Murphy continued. At the show’s climactic, whirlwind close, Poirot solves the crime by presenting two solutions to the mystery, one of which is true, and one of which is only true by fabrication. The show ends with Poirot addressing the audience with an ethical dilemma that perfectly punctuates his stunning performance.
Due to the tragic storyline involving young Daisy Armstrong, Murphy said parents should use their discretion if they want to bring children to the show.
and “Escape to Margaritaville” at The Civic. Capote is a huge fan of Agatha Christie, and it shows in her lavish performance.
Anderson says that he is surrounded by a funny, talented cast.
On the character of Poirot, Anderson thinks he is one of the characters who never lost his sense of childhood wonderment.
“The way he approaches a case, sees things, pieces them together and ultimately gets his justice is one that reminds us all that it’s not what you do that is important, but why you do it as well,” Anderson said.
For Ficca, there is a unique challenge in directing this show.
“Every play has its challenges, but with ‘Murder on the Orient Express,’ so many people already know the story. That means you have to find a way to make it fresh while also honoring those expectations. That’s where Ken Ludwig’s adaptation really shines,” he said.
Ficca said it is Ludwig’s expertise in dialogue that brings a sharp wit to the show, making it incredibly funny while still staying true to Christie’s original story and intent. The humor sprinkled through the show’s two acts offsets the dark themes of death and deception.
With each suspect found to have some connection to Daisy Armstrong, a spiderweb of suspicion is spun and keenly studied by Poirot over two long days on the train. There are potential motives with each suspect as each gives a reasonable alibi, muddying the mystery and forcing Poirot to follow each clue with meticulous caution and care.
Director of Marketing and Public Relations for The Civic, Melody Murphy, believes people everywhere gravitate to these
“We’ve rated it PG. It’s up to parents’ discretion if they want to bring their older children. Middle school and up, sure,” Murphy said.
Murphy credits scenic and projections designer Mihai Ciupe for causing people to go wild for the Art Deco set on The Civic’s social media presence.
“He has done such an amazing job of creating this glamorous, luxurious European train from 1934. It’s a world you want to slip into and spend time in, even if there’s been a murder on board,” Murphy said. Murphy encourages those who may be interested to get their tickets soon as they are already selling very well.
“Our audiences love murder mysteries and Agatha Christie especially, so this one will fill up,” Murphy said.
Ficca’s hope for the show is that both longtime theatergoers and newcomers will walk away feeling the spark of magic and adventure that live theater can bring.
“The level of detail in this production is truly stunning. From the beautifully designed set and period costumes to the meticulously researched props, audiences will be transported back in time to the elegant yet volatile era of Eastern Europe and West Asia,” Ficca said.
“It’s a feast for the senses, and I can’t wait for people to experience it,” he continued.
The Civic is located at 4337 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala. Tickets for “Murder on the Orient Express” are $35 for adults and $17 for ages 18 and younger. This show is rated PG. Buy tickets online at ocalacivictheatre.com. To get tickets through The Civic box office, call (352) 236-2274 or visit 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Photos by Bruce Ackerman Ocala Gazette
Adelaina Brahim as Daisy Armstrong rehearses a scene from Agatha Christie's Murder On The Orient Express during a dress rehearsal at "The Civic" on East Silver Springs Boulevard in Ocala, Fla. on Monday, March 17, 2025.
Joel Brahim as Michel, Danuta Jacob as Princess Natalya Dragomiroff and Izzy Rose as Greta Ohlsson, left to right, rehearse a scene from Agatha Christie's Murder On The Orient Express during a dress rehearsal.
John Paul Anderson Jr. as Hercule Poirot rehearses a scene from Agatha Christie's Murder On The Orient Express during a dress rehearsal.
Joel Brahim as the Head Waiter, left, and Laura Bradford as Helen Hubbard, right, rehearse a scene from Agatha Christie's Murder On The Orient Express.
People, Places and Things Live Oak International
The event was completed in spite of extreme weather challenges.
Staff report
The last day of this year’s Live Oak International came with high winds and pouring rain, but didn’t dampen the enthusiasm of the competitors and spectators.
The event, which this year ran from March 13 to 16, began 34 years ago and has grown to include international combined driving and show jumping. It is run by co-presidents Chester Weber and his niece, Chloe D. Reid.
“As one of Marion County’s largest spectator events, more than 15,000 spectators attend the four-day tournament to watch the competition by athletes from around the globe,” noted the media materials.
“This was an exceptional day of competition, proving once again that when tested, Live Oak International is equipped to thrive. Despite the weather challenges, we came together as a community of competitors and organizers to ensure the safety and success of the event. I couldn’t be prouder of our arena and our team,” said Weber of the competitions on Sunday, in a news release Weber, one of the sport’s leading combined drivers, once again took the top spot in the FEI3* horse team competition.
This year’s event also included dog dock diving, organized by the Ocala Dog Ranch, with canines displaying their own feats of skill.
For a complete list of winners and other details, go to liveoakinternational.com
Photos by Bruce Ackerman Ocala Gazette Bram Chardon of The Netherlands drives his pony team in the Couture Lifestyle Homes Water Hazard at Live Oak Stud.
Martha Younger of Ontario, Canada, competes in the FEI 2* Pony Single division during the marathon at Live Oak International.
Sarah Barretoneto spends some time with her daughter, Evelyn, 4, in the VIP area by the Couture Lifestyle Homes Water Hazard.
Bob Koopman enters The LOI Fountain hazard as he competes in the Intermediate Pony Small Single division on March 15.
Notter, a 2-year-old Belgian Malinois, leaps after his toy, throw by his owner, Emily Copeland, during the Live Oak International.
Sebastian, an 8-year-old Dutch shepherd owned by Jay Nicholas, splashes down with his toy during Dog Dock Diving held by the Ocala Dog Ranch.
Tommy Ouellet of Canada competes in the FEI 3* Horse Team division during the Live Oak International marathon.
Chester Weber prevents his horse team from crashing inside the Couture Lifestyle Homes Water Hazard as he competes in the FEI 3* Horse Team division in the marathon during Live Oak International at Live Oak Stud in Ocala, Fla. on Saturday, March 15, 2024.
Food outreach helps meet needs
Clients say this church’s drive-through program gives them something to eat, which sometimes allows them to pay other bills.
By Andy Fillmore andy@ocalagazette.com
Korean War-era veteran Jim Boland is still serving others.
Boland, 92, was one of at least two dozen Ignite Ministries volunteers who gathered on March 13 to sort and distribute food at a weekly drivethrough outreach that is part of the church’s Feeding His Sheep ministry.
“I was moved by the Holy Spirit,” said Boland.
The food distribution is held on the Ignite Ministries church grounds at 7173 SW State Road 200. As many as 150 cars, some representing multiple families, typically pass through the distribution area, where volunteers load the vehicles with fresh foods including meat, vegetables, baked goods and desserts, and other items like boxes of crackers.
According to the church website, throughout the week, food is collected, stored and prepared for distribution. On Thursdays, from 9 to 10:30 a.m., people from the community drive through the line and receive food. The ministry represents volunteers from a number of churches/ministries joining as one.
Judy Thompson is the director of the three-part Feeding His Sheep ministry. She started the food outreach at another church and bought the operation to Ignite Ministries about two years ago. Through the Senior (Food) Box program, headed by Thompson’s senior assistant, Erika Hage, more than 100 boxes are given out monthly. The third outreach provides toiletries and personal care items for the homeless.
“There’s a need in the community and prices in the stores keep rising,” Thompson said.
Thompson is joined in the volunteer effort by her husband, Terrence, and their sons, Julian, 23, and Cameron, 25. Even granddaughter Jasmine Bradford, 3, joined the session. She said the foods distributed are all donated and obtained from sources such as His Compassion Food Bank, Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida - Marion County
Branch and Feeding Citrus. There are no requirements or qualifications.
“If you show up, you get food,” she said.
A number of drivers visiting the outreach last week gave testimony to the need. The driver of the lead car in line said he had arrived several hours earlier and that getting food at the outreach allowed him to pay other bills.
“My disability check only goes so far,” said a second driver.
Another driver called the food distribution outreach “amazing” and said she could use food budget money saved toward utilities and
other household expenses. “They help so many, and they are always here,” she said.
Ignite Ministries pastor Dave Ingram greeted the drivers. He was joined by his son, Josiah, one of the volunteers, who are all there to share a smile and words of encouragement as they load the vehicles.
Natividad Lopez, Rose Gibson, Milton and Norma McDowell and Bennie Vargas kept busy shuttling food from boxes and carts to the passing vehicles. Jordan, 12, in a mentorship program with the church, also pitched in with the distribution.
Liz Longfellow commented on seeing the “smiles on the faces” of the drivers and how the drivers “really appreciate” the food. Luis Lopez cheerfully loaded heavy watermelons into vehicle after vehicle.
“It feels good,” Natividad Lopez said.
Volunteer Andre Melendez starts at 4 a.m. on distribution days, organizing food and shuttling material from storage to the distribution location.
“I love it,” Melendez said of the work.
Meylin Smith, a representative of Care Plus, which supports the
food distribution ministry, was on hand for the recent session, along with the church’s senior pastor, Joshua Sarmiento.
“Heart, hands and feet of Jesus; these volunteers…are doing the work of the Lord,” Sarmiento said. Volunteers are always needed for the outreach. To learn more, call Thompson at (352) 875-0214. For more information about Ignite Ministries, go to igniteocala.com
Noted documentarian to speak in Ocala
Kerry Candaele will talk about Beethoven and his mother’s and aunt’s involvement in the All-American Girls Baseball League, which spawned a major motion picture.
By Susan Smiley-Height susan@magnoliamediaco.com
The College of Central will host documentarian Kerry Candaele on March 25 and 26 as part of the Ira Holmes International Film Series.
Wendy Adams, director of the film series, wrote in an email that Candaele is a Beethoven expert
with three films about Beethoven and also is the son and nephew of the two female leads in the Penny Marshall film “A League of Their Own.”
“We will be screening Candaele's film ‘Following the Ninth: In the Footsteps of Beethoven's Last Symphony’ at the Marion Theatre on the 25th as a warm-up for the Ocala Symphony Orchestra's
performance of "Ode to Joy,” (Note, that performance is sold out.) Adams stated. “And the CF Humanities Department and Bank of America are sponsoring a 12:30 p.m. lecture on March 26 featuring Candale talking about his mom and aunt's involvement in the All-American Girls Baseball League with a screening of “A League of Their Own” at 2 p.m. following the talk.
“Following the Ninth,” a documentary film about the global impact of Beethoven’s final symphony, will be screened at the Appleton Museum of Art at 2 p.m. on March 25. It is free for members; included with the admission fee for nonmembers. It also will be shown at the Marion Theatre, at 50 S. Magnolia Ave., Ocala, at 7 p.m. that day. There will be a meet and greet with Candaele for film series members starting at 6:30 p.m. Doors will open for the general audience at 7 p.m. A Q & A with the director will be hosted by Ocala Symphony Orchestra Conductor Matt Wardell following the film
screening. The event is free to attend.
Candaele is an awardwinning documentary film director, writer and musician. His films include “Walmart: The High Cost of Low Price” and “Iraq for Sale.” He was assistant producer on “A League of Their Own,” which stars Tom Hanks and Geena Davis.
“This look at the first women’s professional baseball league is set during World War II and focuses on the rivalry between sisters, one a sweet-swinging catcher and the other a pouty,
impulsive pitcher, who play on the same team, which is managed by a washed-up, hard-drinking ex-Major Leaguer,” noted the provided materials.
His talk and the screening for “A League of Their Own” will begin at 12:30 p.m. on March 26 at the CF Ocala Campus, Building 8, Room 110, 3001 SW College Road. Refreshments will be served. The event is free to attend.
Volunteer Luis Lopez loads a watermelon into a waiting vehicle.
Ignite Ministries pastor Dave Ingram greets a driver at the food distribution outreach.
Judy Thompson, organizer of the Feed His Sheep outreach, with granddaughter Jasmine Bradford, 3, joins other volunteers in prayer.
Norma McDowell, a volunteer, loads food into a car on Thursday, March 13, 2025, at the weekly Ignite Ministries food distribution outreach on the church’s grounds at 7173 SW State Road 200 Ocala. Typically, about 150 cars, some representing multiple families, are loaded with boxes containing fresh and nonperishable goods.
Photos by Andy Fillmore Ocala Gazette
Kerry Candaele is an award-winning documentary film director, writer and musician. [Photo courtesy beethovenhero.com/filmmakers]
The All-American Girls Baseball League spawned Penny Marshall's film, “A League of Their Own,” which will be screened in Ocala on March 26, with a talk by Kerry Candaele. [Photo courtesy College of Central Florida]
Hope-Hope-Hope
The leaders of Project Hope are putting their faith in the nonprofit’s new Hope Chest Thrift Store, run by Hope Laird.
By Susan Smiley-Height susan@magnoliamediaco.com
The Hope Chest Thrift Store, a ministry of Project Hope of Marion County, will open on March 25 with a store manager named Hope Laird. All that “hope” will go a long way in helping mothers and their children transition out of homelessness.
The nonprofit Project Hope of Marion County was established in 2007 by a faith-based community group. The organization manages the Hope Villas apartment complex in northeast Ocala. Thirty-two of the 40 two-bedroom, twobath apartments are home to homeless women and their children; the other eight units are rented at market value to help sustain the program.
Because the organization is faith-based, it does not receive state or federal funding. Executive Director April McDonald said that it has long been the dream of the board of directors to open a thrift store to help provide funding.
“It’s been in the works for at least a decade, and we were looking at properties in earnest for the past 18 months or so. Our program has expanded, and we converted some of the units from rentals to serve the homeless women and children and because we don’t get state or federal money, we needed the additional revenue source to put into our program,” McDonald explained.
“We have a thrift store manager, Hope Laird, she is one of our employees, and I will provide oversight. She will manage the day to day. Hope was a godsend. She formerly had a consignment store. So, it’s Project Hope, with the Hope Chest, run by Hope!”
The store, which is located at 320 N. Magnolia Ave., near downtown Ocala, is adjacent to the Salvation Army campus and across the street from the PACE Center for Girls – Marion and Ocala Victory Academy.
“There are two buildings. We own the property, but one space is rented out. The rest is for the thrift store,” McDonald noted.
The store will be open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays. It is
stocked with clothing, home décor, small appliances and furnishing, “basically everything, but we don’t carry mattresses or big items,” McDonald shared.
Until the organization can get a van, there will not be any pick-ups of donations. For now, donations made at the venue will be accepted on Wednesdays only.
“That may expand,” McDonald shared. “We are building out our volunteer base. We have just one fulltime and one part-time staff until we get fully up and running. We need volunteers and the hours are very flexible.”
For those interested in making donations to the store, consider what you might put in a college dorm room, which would mirror what is needed for many of the moms and their children, McDonald suggested.
“Sheets, comforters, shower curtains, silverware, glassware, anything to help furnish our units,” she explained.
“And that’s another reason we decided to do this—some of our ladies will volunteer in the store to get experience and learn new skills,” she added.
Under the Project Hope model, the women who participate do not pay rent the first month. After that, they pay a subsidized fee to cover a portion of the rent as well as utilities. Once they find employment, the fees gradually increase until they can pay the full cost. The average residency is 12 to 18 months. Services offered include counseling, financial
skills development and trauma recovery.
Laird said she is a big believer in the Project Hope mission.
“I was a single mom of four and nobody was helping me. It would have been great to have something like Project Hope in my corner,” she said.
She said that getting the store up and running has been accomplished through “the help of so, so, many people. And there was a web of connections I wasn’t even aware of, such as with the board of directors.”
Laird said she worked at Hope Villas for a few weeks before she started working on the thrift store.
“It’s a wonderful place. The women are not stressed. It’s just a great place,” she shared.
Laird echoed McDonald’s feeling that she was “sent by God” to run the thrift store.
“It’s humbling, and I think that is what happened,” she offered. “I took an empty building and turned it into a thrift store, and I think it’s going to be very successful.”
The Hope Chest Thrift Store will host a ribbon cutting ceremony at 10 a.m. on March 25 and people will be able to shop that day.
“The need is very great,” McDonald said with firmness. “We have at least 100 women on our waiting list at all times. We are hoping that this endeavor can help us continue to expand and, someday, possibly, we can open another facility because the need is so great here.”
To learn more, visit projecthopeocala.org
How belly breathing benefits your body, mind
Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research
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 belly-breathing 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.
Admission is free from 10
Machado, “Exploring Florida’s Sacred Waters.”
Store manager Hope Laird poses in the Hope Chest Thrift Store on North Magnolia Avenue in Ocala, Fla. on Tuesday, March 18, 2025. The store will support the nonprofi t Project Hope of Marion County, which helps women and children.
A grand opening is planned for 10 a.m. Tuesday, March 25. [Bruce Ackerman/ Ocala Gazette]
Cadets
Operation Appreciation
from six area high school programs gathered recently at Ocala’s veterans park for the first-ever JROTC Challenge.
By Andy Fillmore andy@ocalagazette.com
Cadets from the Belleview High School Air Force JROTC program bested fellow cadets from five other local high school programs in military style drills and athletics to take home the traveling trophy in the first ever JROTC Challenge, dubbed Operation Appreciation.
The roughly four-hour event saw at least 175 cadets gather for what organizers called Operation Appreciation for the young people who will be tomorrow’s leaders. The event took place March 14 at the Ocala-Marion County Veterans Memorial Park.
The gathering of the six JROTC units came about through a collaboration between Ron Oppliger, chairman of the nonprofit Friends of Marion County Veterans Park Foundation, and Glenn and Laura Dunn, who are involved in faith-based home schooling and youth and family activities, in partnership with six JROTC leaders.
“The event was a win-win on multiple levels. The park volunteers really enjoyed honoring the retired officers as well as the cadets under their auspices. The cadets experienced a fantastic time of recreational fun and, most important, were the relationships forged amongst the cadet, community and each other. Many expressed their anticipation of next year’s event,” said Glenn Dunn.
USAF Lt. Col. Brian Holbein, senior aerospace science instructor for the BHS program, said garnering the first traveling trophy is a “feather in their caps” for the school’s cadets. He said the cadets excelled in events including the individual drill regulation “knock out,” in which they are penalized for any deviation from the requirements. Holbein said his cadets enjoyed meeting other cadets in a different type of setting. He said the goal of the JROTC program
overall is to build “well rounded citizens of character.”
Other high school senior instructors participating in the event were USAF Maj. George Clarke, Forest, Air Force JROTC; Col. Keith Cunningham, North Marion Air Force JROTC; Master Chief Gary Wise, Vanguard Navy JROTC; Army Maj. Richard Telesco, West Port Army JROTC; and Army Col. Carlos Lopez, Lake Weir Army JROTC.
MSgt. Thomas Young, an aerospace science Instructor with the BHS JROTC, said about 20 of the 156 cadets in their program participated in the event and that he believes the competition will grow with time.
“The cadets were honored to receive the trophy for the first annual Marion County JROTC challenge. Both Lt. Col. Holbein and I are extremely proud of our cadets for their accomplishments. Our cadets look forward to defending the trophy next year,” Thomas wrote in an email after the event.
Joel Irizarry, 18, a BHS cadet for three years, commented on the “social” aspect of the gathering and felt it was “the best thing to ever happen.”
Kaylee Reynolds, 18, who has been in the BHS program for about three years, plans to attend the College of Central Florida to study nursing upon graduation. She finds the BHS program very “family oriented.”
A number of family members were on hand to support their cadets. Magdalena Perez came to support her niece, Celeny Perez, 15, with the NMHS group,
and beamed as she followed the competition closely.
Stacie Causey, public relations manager with Marion County, was on hand to support her daughter, Uriel Causey, 15, a member of the LWHS unit. Uriel said she felt “motivated” by the competition.
Stacie Causey said she is “very proud” of her daughter and “feels better” about the next generation of military leaders after seeing the commitment and leadership demonstrated by all the cadets involved in the event.
LWHS had about 30 of 150 cadets in the overall program, according to an official. Cadet
Jason Weston, 17, saw the event as a “great opportunity” for the cadets to show their skills in the competitions.
Branden Croft, 18, was one of the Forest High School Wildcats competing in the event.
Cunningham said about 20 of 100 NHMS total cadets in the
school’s program attended the event.
“This is a chance to see the cadets from other schools and let our program’s cadets know they are part of something bigger,” he said.
He said the JROTC Challenge was “competitive but friendly” and “very social.”
Christian Reese, 18, with the NMHS program, said JROTC has taught him character traits including discipline, responsibility and other “life lessons.” He plans to join the U.S. Marine Corps.
Marco Saucedo,18, was one of the WPHS cadets involved in the event. He was standing by as Telesco conducted a competition. Telesco called the cadets “great kids.” He said groups of cadets from the WPHS program volunteer to clean up the park and remove residue from the hundreds of memorial bricks etched with veterans’ names.
Vietnam War veteran and park volunteer Charles Whitehead said while observing the Challenge that it was “good to see the youth engaged.”
Wise said about 40 of 190 cadets in the VHS program participated in the challenge. His wife, Erica Wise, was on hand to support their son, cadet Hayden Wise, 17. She said the event was an opportunity for her son “to be with his peers” in an atmosphere of leadership.
The JROTC Challenge was meant to show support for the country’s next generation of leaders, like VHS cadet and officer Elizabeth Daubenmire, 18, with the program for four years. She showed her enthusiasm by donning the VHS Knight mascot outfit for the event.
Daubenmire plans to study nuclear engineering and with a four-year scholarship through the JROTC program and hopes to attend the University of Florida prior to five years of service in the Navy.
Daubenmire said she wrote some something she feels is important in her scholarship application letter: “I think our country is worth fighting for,” she said.
Photos by Bruce Ackerman Ocala Gazette
Members of one of the six JRTOC cadet units salute during the event on March 14, 2025.
Elizabeth Daubenmire, 18, with the Vanguard High School U.S. Navy JROTC, wears "The Knight" costume.
Cadets with the Vanguard High School U.S. Navy JROTC unit place their hands over their hearts for the national anthem.
Cadets Dylan Valot, 11, left, and Daniel Steele, 10, right, with the Christian Homeschool Education Center, present the colors.
Elias Velez, 8, a cadet with the Christian Homeschool Education Center, right, takes aim with the 30-caliber gun on a World War II 1943 Autocar Halftrack owned by David Thomas as cadets Jaesha Santiago, 10, Jonathan Steele, 10 and Eli Smith, 10, look on.
Nicholas Nastav, 14, a cadet with the Vanguard High School U.S. Navy JROTC drill team is silhouetted as he flips his rifle in the air during the JROTC Challenge at the Ocala-Marion County Veterans Memorial Park in Ocala, Fla. on Friday, March 14, 2025.
The “extraordinary within the ordinary”
The new “Embedded” exhibit by artist Steph Giera is articulated around a single and seemingly simple piece—a bed.
By Susan Smiley-Height susan@magnoliamediaco.com
From interesting artists comes interesting art.
From March 29 to April 13, the Shapot Art Gallery in Ocala will offer the “Embedded” solo exhibit of works by local artist Steph Giera. The premise of the show is articulated around a single and seemingly simple piece—a bed.
The show statement offers this: “Embedded” explores the profound emotional weight of the seemingly simple every-day object, the bed. Inspired by the thesis for her art history degree, Giera further delves into the subject with a concentration on its historical and autobiographical significance, while also challenging many essentialist theories. The bed is the location where most of us are born and where most of us will die. Where we sleep and wake. Where we have sex. A place we go when we’re sick to become healthy. Where we experience every emotion from trauma to pure joy. “Embedded” invites the viewer to engage with the extraordinary within the ordinary, and to rediscover the world anew.
“Art is a testament to the enduring human impulse to create, to understand and to transcend. It is expression, dialogue and it witnesses us,” Giera shared in her artist statement.
“My artistic practice is an ongoing interrogation of materiality and perception, making this show very dear to me as a student of history and an artist. Using a variety of mediums I trained with in college, I seek to make work that unveils the stories and complexities within everyday objects, such as the bed. ‘Embedded’ is based on my own personal experiences and a profound inquiry into the nature of form, space, time and, of course, most of all, sentiment,” she offered. “For me, this work is not a commodity but a catalyst for contemplation. It seeks to provoke, to question and to unsettle. This show is an invitation to engage with the world anew, to perceive the ordinary in extraordinary terms.”
Giera’s artist’s bio states that she “is a delightful paradox toting a Bachelor of Science in art history and critical theory all while decorated in ‘90s nostalgia. Picture a mind that can simultaneously dissect Derrida and design a killer marketing campaign. A survivor of the dialup era, a reformed seminarian and a post-divorce renaissance woman, Giera approaches art with the fervor of a scholar and the meticulousness of a collector. Her work, spanning assemblage, soft sculpture, performance art and the resurrection of found objects, is a testament to her ‘split-brain’ genius, where creative chaos meets meticulous cataloging. As the founder of Extra Dirty Creative, she's not just making art; she's curating conversations, both within her exhibitions and the broader community. With a penchant for ephemera and a knack for
storytelling, Giera transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary proving that intellectual rigor and a healthy dose of irreverence can coexist beautifully.”
The ”Embedded” exhibit will include a variety of mediums, such as photography, video art, installations, assemblages and interactive art. Giera will debut a special performance art piece on opening night. The opening reception will begin at 6 p.m. on March 29. The performance art will begin at 7:30 p.m. The evening will include music by DJ Pepito Von Dracula hors d'oeuvres by Graze & Prosper and Briar Patch Oven, with drinks from by Mutiny Ocala and the Floridian Mobile Bar. It is free to attend. The Shapot Art Gallery is located at 2318 NE 8th Road, Ocala.
On April 5, Giera will give a talk beginning at 1 p.m. that will include a screening of her short film performance followed by a lecture on performance art by her and videographer Tim Russell. The lecture will conclude with a Q & A. On April 13, at 2 p.m., the closing reception for “Embedded” will include a screening of the artist's short film performance starting at 2:15 p.m., after which Giera will take questions.
To learn more about the art, the artist and the venue, the “Gazette” did an email Q&A with Giera and Jordan Shapot, the gallery owner and a noted artist in his own right.
STEPH GIERA Q&A
How did you come up with this theme?
The theme of beds has been a long-standing fascination for me, stemming from my thesis work in college where I explored their significance in art, history
and philosophy. It wasn't just an academic pursuit; it became a genuine obsession, driving my research for two years. Even after graduation, I couldn't shake the pull of this intimate and sentimental subject. I've continued to explore beds in my work, and this show feels like a natural evolution of that deep dive, almost a continuation of my 2012 solo exhibition, which also centered on this theme.
Why did you use a variety of mediums?
My approach is driven by the concept, not a specific medium. I began my artistic journey in studio art, exploring everything from photography to installations, but my passion for art history and critical theory shaped my process. I don't confine myself to one form; instead, I select the mediums that best serve the ideas I'm exploring. This varied approach allows me to fully dissect and present the multifaceted nature of my chosen themes. It's a blend of creative expression and analytical inquiry, reflecting my background in both studio art and art history.
Can you reveal anything about the special performance?
My performance piece, titled 'Putting it to Bed,' is a deeply personal exploration of the complex emotions surrounding divorce. It's a journey through grief and joy, those seemingly contradictory feelings that coexist in the aftermath of such a significant life change. Audience participation will be integral to the piece, as we collectively navigate the weight of letting go and the hope of moving forward. I'll be physically engaging with the symbolic space of a marriage bed, using it as a vessel to express the struggle and ultimately, the
(CBD), adult entertainment, art and graffiti, beauty, alternative fashion, music and events.
JORDAN SHAPOT Q&A
How do you know Steph? Steph and I met in high school. We attended the same school, which had a magnet-like art academy within the publicschool setting. After many years went by, we reconnected and she invited me to participate in ‘Show Motel,’ a multi-faceted art exhibit that took place in the rooms of a local motel on Silver Springs Boulevard. We grew to be even better friends when she became my art assistant in preparation for my first solo art exhibit at the Brick City Center for the Arts in 2018. We have been tight ever since.
What prompted you to host this exhibit?
I wanted to give Steph a platform to exhibit her inspiring and deeply emotional personal work. She has been working in the commercial art sector for a long time now, but we rarely get a glimpse inside this brilliant woman's mind. Her work needs to be seen.
Do you have a favorite piece in this show?
release that comes with putting a chapter of life to rest.
Where were you born and raised?
I'm a Central Florida native, born in Gainesville and raised in Hernando. After completing my degree at Alfred University in upstate New York, I spent some time in Croatia before returning to settle in Ocala. Since 2013, I relocated back to the area I call home, residing in Gainesville, Dunnellon and Ocala, and developing a strong connection to the local community.
When did you first produce art?
Art has been a constant in my life. I've been creating for as long as I can remember. I was incredibly fortunate to have a supportive network of family and mentors who nurtured my passion from a young age. That early encouragement led me to art magnet programs in middle and high school, specifically the Lecanto School of Art, where teachers like Ms. Baize and Connie Phillips were instrumental in helping me develop my AP portfolio and, ultimately, gain acceptance to Alfred University.
What else do you enjoy doing?
Outside of my art, I find joy in the outdoors, particularly sailing and kayaking, and I also love gardening and cooking. You'll see a glimpse of that, along with my family, on my Instagram. Professionally, I recently sold my marketing agency, Kismet Creative, and launched a new venture— extradirtycreative. com— focused on creative marketing for vice industries. My team and I specialize in a range of dynamic sectors, including food and beverage, cannabis
Although I am incredibly excited about all of the artwork for various reasons, I believe my favorite piece will be one I haven't actually seen yet. Steph will be debuting a live performance art piece at 7:30 p.m. on opening night that I know is going to be ridiculously good. I am giddy to see her shine.
Where are you with your art?
I am in the middle of a couple of commissioned paintings and the planning stages of my next personal solo show. As an educator, I have started mentoring another local painter, which is going really well. I am also planning to roll out a few workshops for the public very soon.
What is next for the gallery?
We have some exciting exhibits coming up, including a few impactful solo shows as well as some fun group shows that will have public calls to artists. The next group show is called "Small Town Feel," opening May 31, and it will feature miniature artworks from local and national artists. Look for a call to artists on the gallery's social media pages. The gallery continues to host monthly open critiques every first Wednesday from 6-9 p.m., where community artists can bring artwork in and we critique it as a group in a casual and constructive environment. We are also about to start doing film nights that highlight art films, documentaries and foreign films. I have been really loving bringing people together over art. I feel it's deeply important, but also a hell of a lot of fun!
To learn more, go to jordanshapot.com and extradirtycreative.com
This is a screenshot of Steph Giera’s performance video project “Rites + Ritual,” with videographer Tim Russell. [Photo courtesy of the artist]
Steph Giera [Photo by Isabelle Victoria Photography]
Artist Steph Giera [Photo by Joshua Jacobs]
Artist Steph Giera [Photo courtesy of the artist]
Government
MARCH 24 AND 31
Marion County Development Review Office 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 31 – APRIL 4
Operation Green Light
Marion County Clerk of Court and Comptroller’s Office, 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
APRIL 1 AND 15
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
Arts
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
MARCH 21 – MAY 16
Levitt Amp Ocala Music Series
Webb Field, MLK Recreation Complex, 1510 NW 4th St., Ocala
6pm The Marion Cultural Alliance, with the city of Ocala, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Commemorative Commission of Marion County and Juneteenth Celebration Commission, host the 2025 Levitt AMP Ocala Music Series, with free music every Friday from 6 to 8 pm. Next up is Okan. Each event features food trucks, interactive activities and a spotlight on a local nonprofit. Find details at ocalafl.gov
MARCH 28
An Evening with BoDeans Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE 9th St., Ocala
7:30pm Led by original frontman Kurt Neumann, this iconic band brings decades of hits and new music. Known for their high-energy shows and heartfelt anthems, BoDeans inspire fans old and new. Learn more 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
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
APRIL 8 AND 15
Marion County School Board 1614 E Fort King St. 5:30pm The board meets on the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month. Agendas and minutes are available at go.boarddocs.com/fl/marion/Board. nsf/Public
APRIL 9
Dunnellon City Council
Dunnellon City Hall, 20750 River Dr. 5:30pm The council generally meets the second Wednesday of the month. Agendas, minutes and video are available at dunnellon.granicus.com/ ViewPublisher.php?view_id=1
Community
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-ocala-winter-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 25
King of the Wing Southeastern Livestock Pavilion, 2232 Jackonsville Road, Ocala
The Marion County Building Industry Association’s annual fundraiser brings together local businesses and organizations for a day of flavorful fun in support of The Arc of Marion. A $25 ticket includes wing samplings and two beverages. Learn more at fb.com/mcbia.kow
MARCH 28
Party in Purple for Domestic Violence
MARCH 30
Ode to Joy: Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE 9th St., Ocala 3pm Under the baton of Maestro Matthew Wardell, the Ocala Symphony Orchestra with the College of Central Florida Patriot Singers and Ocala Symphony Chorus, led by the talented Joshua Mazur, will join forces with four world-class soloists to bring the epic work to life. For details and tickets, go to reillyartscenter.com
THROUGH 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. Performances are Thursdays and Fridays at 7:30 p.m., Saturdays at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., and Sundays at 2 p.m. Tickets are $35 for adults and $17 for ages 18 and younger. Learn more at ocalacivictheatre.com
APRIL 5
Free First Saturday
Appleton Museum of Art, 4333 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala Every first Saturday of the month offers free admission to the College of Central Florida Appleton Museum of Art. Many times, special guest lectures or other events are
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
MARCH 29
Spring Fling Yard Sale
Grace Episcopal Church, 503 SE Broadway St., Ocala 8am-2pm
Multi-family sale will include furniture, décor, books, small appliances, flower pots, pet supplies, toys, sports team paraphernalia and more. Proceeds will benefit local women and children in need. To donate items or for more information, call (704) 840-6897.
MARCH 29
Betty Jean Steinshouer The Thread of Friendship: Marjorie, Zora and Dessie
Headquarters Ocala Public Library, 2720 E Silver Springs Blvd, Ocala 11am
The Friends of the Ocala Public Library present: FLORIDA TALKS, with Betty Jean Steinshouer: The Thread of Friendship: Marjorie, Zora and Dessie. The presentation will examine the power of the friendships of Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings, Dessie Smith Prescott and Zora Neale Hurston. Steinshouer shares stories and photos from the lives of these women, all now honored in the Florida Women's Hall of Fame. Learn more by calling (352) 671-8551.
MARCH 29 (TO JUNE 14)
Don Philpott lectures 10am The Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway will present free lectures by the award-winning writer, journalist and environmental advocate. The topics and dates are Survival 101, March 29, Santos Large Pavilion, 3080 SE 80th St., Ocala; Edible Florida, April 19; The History of Wekiwa Springs and Rock Springs Run, May 10; and Florida’s Incredible Wildlife, June 14; all at Marion County Sheriff’s Office Substation, 3260 SE 80th St., Ocala.
APRIL 1
Heart
THROUGH APRIL 6 Winter
World Equestrian Center, 1750 NW 80th Ave., Ocala Hours vary This series offers world-class hunter/jumper competitions sanctioned by US Equestrian (USEF) and the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI). The second leg of the Longines League of Nations will return March 18-23. Learn more at wec.net
The Ocala Symphony Orchestra
at the
“Ode to Joy” on March
[Photo courtesy Reilly Arts Center]
Sudoku is played on a grid of 9 x 9 spaces. Within the rows and columns are 9 “squares” (made up of 3 x 3 spaces). Each row, column and square (9 spaces each) needs to be filled out with the numbers 1-9, without repeating any numbers within the same row, column or square.
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTH
JUDICIAL CIRCUIT
IN AND FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION
File No. 2025-CP-680
IN RE: ESTATE OF SHEILA L. CALLAHAN
Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of SHEILA L. CALLAHAN, deceased, whose date of death was October 25, 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for MARION County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 110 N.W. 1st Avenue, #1, Ocala, Florida 34471. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative's attorney are set forth below.
All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent's estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS
AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM.
All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent's estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS
AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE.
ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORI-
DA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED.
NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERI-
ODS 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 21, 2025.
Personal Representative: EBONY RIVERS
Attorney for Personal Representative: SHANTA MATTHEWS,
AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM.
All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent's estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS
AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERI-
ODS 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 21, 2025.
Personal Representative: CODY EVANS
Attorney for Personal Representative: SHANTA MATTHEWS, Attorney
Florida Bar Number: 69935
814 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Suite D
OCALA, FL 34470
Telephone: (352) 421-8722
Fax: (352) 306-3759
E-Mail: shanta@smatthewslaw.com
Secondary: lori@smatthewslaw.com
By The Mepham Group
Gasoline Alley
Broom Hilda
Middletons
Sudoku
