Home rule, open spaces and community planning hang in the balance this legislative session
By Jennifer Hunt Murty jennifer@ocalagazette.com
After a host of bills were filed during this session of the Florida Legislature that would erode local control of development across the state and open hundreds of thousands of agricultural acres to developers without local approval, advocates for preserving communities’ rights to choose how they grow are pushing back against legislators, citing a host of reasons these changes would have negative results, ranging from quality of life concerns to potential impacts on national defense.
One bill that has generated a storm of criticism is Senate Bill 1118, filed by State Sen. Stan McClain, R-Marion, with a companion House Bill 1209, filed by Rep. Kevin Steele, R-Pasco. McLain’s office has not responded to repeated requests from the “Gazette” for comment on the
bill; however, during a March 17 Senate Community Affairs Committee meeting and bill analysis, the senator pointed to property owners’ rights to use land as they see fit and the need for Florida to build more houses.
“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 said. “But it doesn’t change the fact that we have to find ways to make sure
Where is Sara Gail Ebersole?
By Andy Filmore
That’s the question that drew a small group of demonstrators to the median of U.S. Highway 441 in Micanopy on Saturday. They held placards and stood beside a large message board displaying Ebersole’s last known photo and other identifying details.
Michele Tullis, Ebersole’s sister, organized the demonstration to keep the March 3, 2023, disappearance of then-26year-old Ebersole in the public eye. She continues to call for a person of interest— who, according to case documents, lived near the demonstration site—to cooperate with law enforcement.
Tyrone Morman, 27, a Micanopy resident at the time, has been named a person of interest, according to a post from the Marion County Sheriff’s Office. Tullis said she would like to pose the same question to Morman that the sheriff’s office shared on Facebook: “Where did Morman take Sara?”
A sheriff’s office document states deputies were called on March 5, 2023, in reference to the disappearance. Detective R. Stith was assigned the case 10 days later.
The report also states that, by Dec. 20, 2023, there had been no contact from Ebersole with friends or family, no financial activity on her accounts and no social media activity.
“Ebersole’s normal pattern of life ceased as of March 3, 2023,” the document reads.
Tullis said she has been counting the days since her sister vanished. She has maintained a social media presence about the case, posting updates and appeals for help.
She also created a GoFundMe account titled “Bring Sara Home: Billboard Campaign Fund and Awareness” to raise money for a billboard seeking information. As of April 14, the fund had raised $1,983 toward a $5,000 goal.
“It’s been 771 days,” Tullis said, holding a placard that read, “Sara Ebersole Matters.”
“This is a living nightmare—not
knowing exactly what has happened to Sara. I spend the majority of my days advocating for her and keeping her humanized to the public, defending her tooth and nail. We only want to know where (the person of interest) drove Sara so she can be located,” she wrote in a text message following the demonstration.
The sheriff’s office has released information about the case through Facebook posts, including a timeline of events leading up to Ebersole’s disappearance.
According to one post, Ebersole accepted a ride around 10 p.m. on March 2, 2023, from two men in a pickup truck while at the Circle K convenience store at U.S. Highway 441 and County Road 318 in Reddick.
She was dropped off, along with James Robinson, at a residence in the 18000 block of U.S. Highway 441 in Reddick. Robinson lived in one section of the residence, while James Schaller and Teesha McDermitt lived in another, the post states.
See Home rule page A6
Fighting for higher education
Community, school board rally against state cuts to funding for advanced courses.
By Caroline Brauchler caroline@ocalagazette.com
The future of advanced courses for Florida students is in danger as two proposed bills in the Florida Legislature threaten cuts to Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate and college-level testing for public schools.
The Marion County School Board created a resolution opposing Florida House Bill 5101 and Senate Bill 2510, which, if signed into law, would reduce career and professional education funding by 50%.
Although the two bills differ in language, both passed chambers and are now known as CS/SB 7030. The differences between the two bills are expected to be worked out.
Locally, the legislation would cut Marion County Public Schools’ budget by over $2.5 million, which officials say would pose a significant detriment to advanced programs.
The resolution was sent to the Florida Legislature on April 9.
Currently, schools can receive additional funding for each full-time equivalent student who participates in dual enrollment, IB, AP, AICE, CAPE and early high school graduation programs. This funding is added to the base student allocation.
“The additional FTE generated from these programs is added to the district’s weighted FTE when calculating the district’s flexible base funding,” according to the bill.
Both bills propose that districts and schools with students in advanced programs such as these will no longer be eligible for additional FTE membership. It would also cut the bonuses given to teachers for each student who meets those course requirements.
See Sara Gail Ebersole, page A3
Home Show April 25-27 Pg B2 See Higher education, page A5
Demonstrators hold signage about missing person Sara Ebersole, then 26, who disappeared from the Reddick area on March 3, 2025. The demonstration to maintain awareness about the case was held Saturday, April 12, 2025, on U.S. Highway 441 in Micanopy, Florida. [Photo By Andy Fillmore/Special To The Ocala Gazette].
Lawmakers target student cell phone use
By Jim Turner and Tom Urban Florida News Service
An effort to keep students off cell phones throughout the school day passed the Florida House on Wednesday, though differences remain with a Senate proposal.
The House unanimously approved a bill (HB 949) that would expand a law that prohibits the use of wireless devices at schools during “instructional time.”
Bill sponsor Demi Busatta, R-Coral Gables, said “cell phones not only cause constant distractions to a student’s focus during the school day, which impedes their ability to learn, but it also has shown to increase bullying.”
Rep. Michelle Salzman, R-Pensacola, told reporters she doesn’t think kids should have phones in their hands at any given time.
“They can’t even interact on a personal basis. We are removing humanity from humankind,” Salzman said. “Any time that we can encourage the lack of technology,
and more interaction, the better off we are going to be.”
The bill would prevent students from using phones during the school day, as opposed to during instructional time. But school districts would approve rules to allow phone use under certain circumstances. As an example, students with certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, could use their wireless devices. Such students would have to provide doctors’ notes on the need for the devices.
Meanwhile Wednesday, the Senate Rules Committee approved a wider education bill that, in part, would require the education commissioner to craft a statewide policy about cell-phone use by the end of 2026.
Senate bill sponsor Danny Burgess, R-Zephyrhills, said after the committee meeting there is still “time on the clock” to reach agreement with the House, as “this is a problematic situation in schools.” The legislative session is scheduled to end May 2.
“We’re just trying to see what might be the best approach to get
there,” Burgess said. “I think the best way to do something is to get buy-in from the local districts and families and parents.”
The proposed statewide policy would be based on findings from six school districts that currently ban the use of cell phones and other devices during the school day or plan to do so during the 2025-2026 school year.
The commissioner would have to detail the effects of the bans on student achievement and behavior and outline a “model policy” that could be used by other districts and charter schools.
In 2023, lawmakers prohibited students from using cell phones and other wireless devices during instructional time. The law prevents cell-phone use during lessons unless “expressly directed by a teacher solely for educational purposes.”
Each school district was able to set its own rules on carrying out the law. Some districts prohibit student access to devices throughout the entire school day while others let students use phones during lunch and between classes.
DUNNELLON RESIDENT DIES IN HOUSE FIRE
Ahouse fire in Dunnellon claimed the life of one man in the early morning hours of April 15, according to Marion County Fire Rescue.
MCFR was dispatched at 12:51 a.m. to a house on West McKinney Avenue with three occupants.
Crews arrived on scene at 12:55 a.m., where the single-story house was engulfed in flames.
Two of the occupants were able to escape, while the third was trapped inside.
“Crews launched an aggressive attack, swiftly deploying hose lines to contain the blaze while rescue teams began an urgent search for the missing occupant,” according to MCFR.
The fire was under control by 1:18 a.m., but the person was found deceased inside the home.
The identity of the deceased has not yet been released.
“The cause and origin of the fire are currently under investigation by the State Fire Marshal’s Office,” according to MCFR.
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ADVENTHEALTH
BREAKS GROUND ON NEW ER
On April 10, hospital leaders, government officials and community members attended a groundbreaking ceremony for the new AdventHealth Heathbrook ER in Ocala.
The facility will have 12 exam rooms, including a resuscitation room, a bariatric room, an isolation room, obstetrics-friendly room and pediatric-friendly rooms. There will be a triage room near the lobby. The ER also will offer lab services, X-ray, CT and ultrasound scans. The nearly 14,000 square-foot, 12 bed department is being built at 3941 SW College Road. HuntonBrady is the architecture firm and Robins & Morton will manage construction. It is scheduled to open in early 2026.
“Marion County is growing at a rapid pace, making it essential to continue to ensure our community has access to expert emergency care when they need it most,” said Erika Skula, President and CEO of AdventHealth Ocala, in the news release. “We’re ready to provide these essential services as part of our mission to extend the healing ministry of Christ and provide exceptional whole-person care to people who live, work and visit our community. We’re delighted to take this latest step and further grow our footprint here.”
CF ANNOUNCES GOING GATOR UF
PARTNERSHIP
The College of Central Florida is offering students the Going Gator partnership, designed for learners who want to earn an associate in arts degree at CF and then have guaranteed admission to transfer to the University of Florida.
Tuition at CF is about half the cost of a Florida public university and CF offers support systems including small class sizes, award-winning faculty and free tutoring and counseling for every student. More than half of CF students are enrolled in the associate in arts degree, which prepares them to transfer to a university after two years, the news release noted.
“Our associate in arts degree is our largest and most popular program,” said Jim Henningsen, CF president, in the release. “For many local students, the dream of attending a prestigious Florida university is only possible by getting an affordable, quality
education at CF for the first two years. This new partnership with the University of Florida offers students a guided pathway from day one to set them up for success.”
Through the Going Gator partnership, qualifying students have guaranteed transfer admission into 19 pathways in the UF College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, from English to history to sciences and more. Once admitted to the Going Gator program, CF students must continue to meet the eligibility criteria such as good academic standing and progress in their selected academic pathway. As a top public university, UF’s admission process is highly competitive and this partnership ensures CF graduates have a clear path to attaining that toptier education.
“We are committed to expanding access to world-class education and the Going Gator partnership with the College of Central Florida is a testament to that mission,” said UF College of Liberal Arts and Sciences interim dean Mary Watt in the release.
To learn more, go to cf.edu/uf
OCALA HCA HOSPITALS EARN AWARDS
HCA Florida Ocala Hospital and HCA Florida West Marion Hospital have announced that each has received a 2025 Patient Safety Excellence Award from Healthgrades, a site that Americans use when searching for a doctor or hospital.
This is the eighth year in a row that both hospitals have been recognized as a Patient Safety Excellence Award recipient and puts both facilities in the top 10% of hospitals nationwide for patient safety.
In addition, both hospitals also recently were each named as one of America’s 250 Best Hospitals, placing them among the top 5% of hospitals in the country for clinical excellence, the news release noted.
“We are wholly committed to providing the Marion County community and its visitors safe, collaborative and timely care,” said Dr. Dave MacIntyre, chief medical officer for HCA Florida Ocala Hospital and HCA Florida West Marion Hospital, in the release. “Receiving the Patient Safety Excellence Award from Healthgrades for a third consecutive year clearly affirms that our physicians, our nurses and our colleagues who support them in caring for our patients are dedicated to providing this community the highest quality care in the safest manner possible.”
Ocala Main Street’s Heart of the Park scheduled to open July 4
By Caroline Brauchler caroline@ocalagazette.com
The revitalization of Tuscawilla Park is underway, with the Heart of the Park scheduled to open with a bang this July. Heart of the Park, an upcoming community hub that is transforming the former American Legion building at Tuscawilla Park, is scheduled for a soft opening for sponsors and stakeholders on July 4.
Ocala Main Street is in talks with the city of Ocala to bring back a Fourth of July fireworks show to bring the community together and celebrate Heart of the Park’s initial opening, said OMS Executive Director Jessica Fieldhouse.
“We’re excited to be able to open up the Heart of the Park for that event,” Fieldhouse said. “I think it’s really appropriate, it’s such a community-oriented event so to have a community hub open for that was really poetic for us.”
The renovations to the existing building are in Phase I of the project, which includes replacing and moving the HVAC units and redoing the building’s electrical system.
Sara Gail Ebersole
Continued from page A1
Around 1:24 a.m. on March 3, Robinson exchanged text messages with Morman. The messages led to Morman driving a blue 2017 Hyundai Sonata to the residence. He left around 4 a.m. with Ebersole, according to the sheriff’s office.
On Dec. 20, 2023, Morman was arrested after Detective Ryan Stith went to his residence with a search warrant for his cellphone.
According to the arrest affidavit, Morman initially claimed the phone was inoperative and had been discarded. Further investigation determined he still had the device. He was arrested and charged with misdemeanor obstruction of an investigation.
Detectives found evidence in the phone that “confirmed” he left the residence with Ebersole, according to a sheriff’s office media release.
A Facebook post from the agency said Detective Stith “discovered information suggesting” Morman and Ebersole were seen at an unnamed 24-hour convenience store in northwest Marion County in the early morning hours of March 3.
The affidavit also includes
The project recently received a sizeable donation from the Miller Family, who donated $50,000 toward the revitalization efforts. Steven Miller was born and raised in Ocala, then attended Princeton University and the University of Virginia before working in New York for about a decade.
He and his wife, Katie, returned to Ocala to raise their three children.
“Plans include a corner store and expansive deck, satellite museum exhibit center in partnership with local museums and organizations, daily programming focused on wellness and community, and enhanced connectivity throughout the park,” according to OMS.
The city of Ocala put on a drone show for the Fourth of July in 2024 and contracted the same company, Sky Elements, to put on shows in 2025 and 2026. The city canceled the contract for the drone shows after one of the company’s shows in Orlando went awry, injuring a young boy.
OMS plans to contract John Casse’s Skylighters of Florida for the fireworks show this coming July at Tuscawilla.
statements from Morman claiming he had already told detectives “everything” and was “upset” about being blamed for the disappearance. He described the case as “he said, he said.”
Attempts to reach Morman via a phone number documented in 2023 were unsuccessful.
Tullis wrote that her sister was born in Michigan, moved to Florida at age 3 and later to Dunnellon at 14. She attended Dunnellon High School.
Ebersole has a 6-year-old daughter and has been involved in legal and custody disputes with the child’s father since the girl was 1, according to Tullis.
“Sara loved the beach; any free time she had was spent between Daytona and Sarasota,” Tullis wrote. “She wanted to travel and entertained the idea of opening a small cat-friendly coffee café near the water.”
“Sara was always gleeful to try new things. She had a childish, fun spirit. She was a playful mother, trying new things and experiences with her daughter as often as she could,” Tullis added.
Paige Rozier and her daughter, Savanna Rozier, 25, learned about the case and
came to the demonstration to support Tullis.
“It’s heartbreaking and frustrating,” Paige Rozier said. Savanna Rozier added, “The case is in our own county.”
Ebersole was working at Café Risqué, located at Interstate 75 and County Road 374 in Micanopy. Two coworkers, who gave only their first names— Kacy and Heather—attended the demonstration to show support.
“We want answers,” one of the women said, describing Ebersole as a “nice girl.”
Husband and wife Katt and Sam Mitchell, along with Nick Meeds, said they have followed the case on Facebook and came to show solidarity.
Holly Rice, visiting from Arkansas, said she was moved to join the demonstration.
“Sara Ebersole deserves justice,” she said.
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement’s Missing Endangered Persons Information Clearinghouse currently lists 12 people whose cases date back as far as 1967. They include Dorothy Scofield, who disappeared from a northeast Ocala store in 1976 at age 12.
AdventHealth Ocala President and CEO Erika Skula said the new facility represents a significant milestone in AdventHealth’s ongoing commitment to better serve the community. (Photo courtesy AdventHealth)
Young entrepreneurs shine at competition
Students from Belleview High take top honors in 11th annual Youth Business Plan Competition.
Staff report
The 11th Annual Youth Business Plan Competition, held April 3 at the Power Plant Business Incubator and organized by the Ocala Metro Chamber & Economic Partnership (CEP), provided an opportunity for students to pitch innovative business ideas to a panel of judges and potential investors.
Finalists from North Marion High School, Vanguard High School, Ocali Charter High School, West Port High School and Belleview High School presented their business plans in front of an audience that included
business leaders, investors and community members. The winners were:
• First place – You Leave, We Feed! from Belleview High School. This business offers specialized animal care for horses, cattle and small pets when owners are away, ensuring peace of mind for Marion County’s livestock owners.
• Second place – Sweet Sensory Fidgets and Apparel from Ocali Charter High School. This business provides customizable sensory solutions and stylish apparel for neurodivergent children, blending functionality with fashion.
• Third place – Axis Computer Repairs and Modifications, LLC from North Marion High School. This business focuses on tech solutions, specializing in computer repairs and custom modifications for gamers and tech enthusiasts. “It’s been an honor to chair this event and witness the incredible entrepreneurial spirit of Marion County’s youth,” said Freddie Morris, director of Entrepreneurship Services at the CEP, in the news release. “Seeing these students put their ideas into action demonstrates the future of business leadership right here in our community.”
To learn more, go to ocalacep.com
Riccardo Minimi, a student at North Marion High School, presents a business plan for Axis Computer Repairs & Modifi cations LLC. [Photo courtesy CEP]
From left, Evelyn Reyes, CEP vice president Business Creation, with Belleview High School students Hailey Shannon, Cadance Martin and Chloe Davis, and Freddie Morris, CEP director of Entrepreneurship Services, with the first-place check for $4,500. [Photo courtesy CEP]
Higher education
Continued from page A1
The existing statute would be changed “to adjust the weighted values used to calculate the additional FTE students in half for the following programs: Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), Advanced International Certificate of Education (AICE), Dual Enrollment and Early Graduation,” according to SB 2510.
Community members, educators and students in Marion County have expressed strong opposition to the proposed legislation. Among them was John Crawford, the magnet coordinator for Forest High School’s College and Career Advanced Placement Academy. The legislation would cut over $450,000 in funding for Forest High School alone.
“When this add-on funding is effectively used, as it is here in Marion County, it closes that achievement gap between the ‘haves’ and the ‘have nots,’” Crawford said. “What we really need is to invest in this program, and we need the state to continue to hear that message.”
Crawford organized a town hall on April 15 where he presented data on funding for Career and Professional Education (CAPE) programs as well as other advanced programs and potential detriments that will be seen if the legislation passes.
Across Marion County, over 5,000 students participate in AP, IB and Advanced International Certificate of Education (AICE) testing.
and is part of a career and technical education program to train her as an EKG technician.
“I can have a job working as an EKG tech right out of high school, which will help me pay for college and help me pay for other expenses as well and get me ready to go into the workforce,” Kostowicz said. “It is essential to have these types of programs available for students, and it’s really sad that they’re trying to take that away.”
The legislation would not only affect the high school level, however, as many of Marion County’s middle schools receive funding through the same revenues.
the opportunity for middle school students to participate in IB courses even before entering high school.
School Board Member Allison Campbell said given that Marion County has an average pass rate of 62% in comparison to the statewide average of 30%, the Legislature should introduce a caveat into the bill language that rewards districts that are successful.
The House Bill intends to cut the funding by 50%, while the Senate Bill is intended to cut funding by 50% but rolling a portion back into the base student allocation funding, Campbell said.
Photos by Bruce Ackerman
In effect, both the House and Senate bills include language that will reduce the amount of the addon weights applied certain types of students and school districts funded in the Florida Education Finance Program.
The Senate Bill specifically “modifies CAPE Digital Tool Certificates and CAPE industry certification funding, including changes to the additional fulltime equivalent membership, and modifies the requirements of the CAPE Industry Certification Funding List,” according to SB 2510.
Chloe Kostowicz was among those who attended the town hall.
A senior at Forest High School who also served as a Student Representative to the School Board this year she has taken AP courses
“This would have a devastating effect on some of the schools, which count on that money to provide these advanced programs to these students, not only at the high school level, but for schools like Howard Middle School, which has a very successful MYP program because of the dollars that are generated from this add-on funding,” Crawford said.
Howard Middle School’s Middle Years Programme (MYP) provides
Campbell said she and other school board members wish to see the legislation allocate more funding to districts with higher pass rates so that even if a district has a lower average, they have something to work toward in getting students closer to that goal.
“If you’re wanting to level the playing field, then let’s make sure that you’re actually treating apples to apples and rewarding the success of those that are doing it well,” she said.
People listen during a town hall on proposed legislative education cuts in the auditorium at Marion Technical Institute in Ocala, Fla. on Tuesday, April 15, 2025.
John Crawford of Forest High School, who works with the College Career Advancement Program, leads a town hall on proposed legislative education cuts in the auditorium at Marion Technical Institute in Ocala, Fla. on Tuesday, April 15, 2025.
Chloe Kostowicz, a Forest High School senior, speaks during a town hall on proposed legislative education cuts in the auditorium at Marion Technical Institute in Ocala, Fla. on Tuesday, April 15, 2025.
Emilie Holmes, a senior at Belleview High School, speaks during a town hall on proposed legislative education cuts in the auditorium at Marion Technical Institute in Ocala, Fla. on Tuesday, April 15, 2025.
Home rule
Continued from page A1
that housing is available for those people that are moving here.”
Despite the extensive scrutiny and criticism from the public regarding the loss of local decision-making control of agricultural land, the legislators have maneuvered these and other bills that threaten local control of zoning decisions.
The environmental organization 1000 Friends of Florida warned this week that “HB 579, sponsored by State Rep. Tobin Rogers “Toby” Overdorf, R-Martin, has been amended to require administrative approvals for development in “Agricultural Enclaves.”
“This would mean that agricultural land could be developed into commercial, industrial or residential use without oversight by the local government or opportunity for public input, effectively eliminating community planning for rural areas. The measure will undoubtably result in unchecked sprawl throughout the state. Similar language was originally proposed in SB 1118 earlier this session,” the group wrote in an email “
According to personal financial disclosures filed with the state, both McClain and Overdorf receive the bulk of their income from the construction industry. Additionally, other
bills are moving through committees with the support of Gov. Ron DeSantis that abolish the nine Regional Planning Councils (SB 1264 and HB 1125) and 35 water and soil districts (HB 973 and SB 986) throughout the state. With the removal of so many tools for local community planning, some environmental advocates and local officials worry that Florida will become a free-for-all for developers.
LOCAL GOVERNMENT
OFFICIALS CITE CONCERNS
In a letter dated March 28, Marion County commissioners wrote to McClain about their concerns, noting that he knows that Marion County’s “farmland is not only an economic driver but also a defining part of our community’s identity.” “SB 1118 also weakens long-standing legal principles in land-use decisions,” the letter continued. “Courts have traditionally given local governments significant leeway under the ‘fairly debatable’ standard, which protects their authority in making planning decisions. This bill removes that standard, making it easier to overturn local government decisions and potentially shifting land-use policymaking from elected officials to the courts. While we understand the role of
agricultural enclaves, the exclusion of public input from this process is deeply concerning whereas our current process ensures that the public has a voice in the process.”
The commissioners’ letter pointed to the diversity of Florida’s 67 and indicated they felt it best to keep decisions about local land-use and development “in the hands of those who know our community best,” the government closest to the people, to make decisions that best serve their communities.
Board Chairwoman Kathy Bryant told the “Gazette” that it’s been “disheartening” to see so much legislative intent to chip away at the principle of “home rule,” which provides that local governments can enact and enforce laws specific for their jurisdiction so long that it is within the framework of state laws. This allows communities to govern themselves and address local issues to meet their community’s specific needs.
STATEWIDE MILITARY
INSTALLATIONS CITE CONCERNS
Several organizations and communities around Florida-based military ranges and installations have also raised concerns about how these agricultural enclaves will impact the military properties.
“We are extremely concerned at the proposed language in several bills and amendments in both
chambers that appear to be systemically weakening encroachment protections around our military ranges and installations,” according to a joint letter on March 28 to legislative leaders.
The letter was signed by the South Florida Defense Alliance, Tampa Bay Defense Alliance, South Tampa Chamber, Northwest Florida Defense Coalition, JAXUSA Partnership, City of Jacksonville, EDC of Florida’s Space Coast, National Center for Simulation, Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce, South Dade Chamber of Commerce, EDC of South Miami-Dade and Walter Area Chamber.
The group indicated that the defense and national security section of Florida’s economy was “recently valued at $102.6 billion with a track record of consistent and strong annual growth.”
Agricultural and farmland around military airfields, the letter noted, are “Clear Zones, Accident Potential Zones” and come with significant noise hazards, making potential housing developments in these locations a “safety risk.”
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 FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED.
NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT'S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is April 18, 2025.
Personal Representative: NORMAN MELIN
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
The group also pointed out the financial implications of losing these military installations if their open spaces were not protected from development. Collectively, the group says the installations “generate nearly 1 million jobs in the state that are highly resilient and exceed the per capita average annual income level. The risk of incompatible developments and encroachment on particularly sensitive areas places these military assets at risk of relocation or reduction, threatens public safety, and ultimately can weaken our state’s successful economy,” the letter stated.
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• Full Selection of Garden Supplies & Tools Turf & Xeriscaping Ideas
Volunteers spruce up the Arc of Marion campus during day of caring
By Andy Filmore
Volunteers rolled up their sleeves and got dirty Saturday, April 12, during The Arc of Marion’s Day of Caring at the nonprofit’s campus in Ocala.
The Arc of Marion serves about 110 people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and holds daily skills and activities classes, according to Executive Director Lenni Clyatt, who was busy painting a door during the workday.
The cleanup effort focused on two group homes that house up to 30 residents on the campus at 2800 S.E. Maricamp Road.
According to county property records, The Arc of Marion campus covers more than 16 acres and includes 14 buildings, including the two freestanding
group homes.
About two dozen volunteers, working in two shifts, cleaned up debris, removed large tangled shrubs and planted new ground cover.
“This has been needed for years,” said The Arc of Marion maintenance director and groundskeeper Tom Rodriquez, who also volunteered for the workday.
Leah Almeida of Farm Girl Professional Services Trimming and Landscaping in Belleview donated her time and the use of her company’s truck and trailer to pull out large shrubs and haul debris.
“Happy to help,” Almeida said.
She said she was inspired to volunteer by The Arc of Marion board member Robert Howie.
Howie, who was on hand for the workday, raised about
$23,000 for The Arc of Marion by making a 1,000-mile bicycle journey across Florida in February 2025, sharing his progress on social media.
Rhonda Kincade, The Arc of Marion’s community engagement coordinator, who also volunteered, said Farm Girl Professional Services, Oxford Groundcovers Inc. of Oxford and Dirt Cheap of Summerfield all donated to the project.
Rachel Sams, a friend of an administrator at the nonprofit, and her daughter Avery Sams, 13, were among the volunteers. Rachel Sams helped hook one end of a chain to large shrubs in front of a group home and the other to the Farm Girl truck, then directed the driver to pull the shrubs out.
John Yates, 21, a regular volunteer at the facility, also
donated his time and effort on Saturday.
According to The Arc of Marion website, the local outreach began in 1959 with a school formed by concerned parents of children with intellectual and developmental disabilities. In 2019, the organization’s board voted to “reaffiliate” with The Arc of Florida and the national chapter, focusing its services on adults 18 and older. The organization’s name and logo were changed.
The website notes The Arc of Marion provides adult day training, supported employment, supported independent living and transportation.
The adult day training offerings include “social interactions, daily living, cooking, hygiene, janitorial, lawn service, computer lab/internet resources, recreation, arts and crafts,
performing arts, health and safety,” according to the site.
The Arc of Florida’s mission, according to arcofflorida.org, is to “advocate for local chapters, public policies, and high-quality supports for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to be fully included in all aspects of their community.”
Todd Clyatt, Lenni Clyatt’s husband, and their son, Conner Clyatt, 16, were among the volunteers. Compliance coordinator Janet Kirouac greeted and directed volunteers as they arrived on campus.
Donna Capone, a direct support professional with The Arc of Marion, also pitched in with cleanup and shovel work.
“I like to help,” Capone said.
Todd Clyatt moves old ground covering in preparation for new landscaping at one of two group homes on The Arc of Marion campus in Saturday, April 12, 2025. Volunteers cleaned and landscaped the two homes and painted as part of the non- profit’s Day of Caring on April 12, 2025.
Volunteers cleanup and prepare to plant foliage in front of one of two group homes on the organization’s campus at 2800 S.E. Maricamp Road. Volunteers cleaned and landscaped the two homes and painted as part of the non- profit’s Day of Caring on April 12, 2025.
The Arc of Marion Community Engagement Coordinator Rhonda Kincaid, left foreground, is seen carrying new foliage to plant in front of one of two group homes on the organization’s campus at 2800 S.E. Maricamp Road. Volunteers cleaned and landscaped the two homes and painted as part of the
Photos by Andy Fillmore
Foundation head says ‘mistakes’ made
By Dara Kam Florida News Service
TALLAHASSEE — The chairman of a foundation tied to Hope Florida — First Lady Casey DeSantis’ signature welfareassistance program — said under oath Tuesday that “mistakes were made” with the foundation’s record-keeping, as a skirmish over the group’s finances continued to escalate.
Joshua Hay, chairman of the Hope Florida Foundation Inc., appeared before the House Health Care Budget Subcommittee amid a widening probe into the nonprofit’s receipt of $10 million as part of a Medicaid managedcare company’s $67 million settlement with the state Agency for Health Care Administration.
After receiving the money from Centene — the state’s largest Medicaid managedcare provider — last fall, the foundation made $5 million grants each to Secure Florida’s Future, a nonprofit organization linked to the Florida Chamber of Commerce, and Save Our Society from Drugs.
The groups received the grants while they were making contributions to Keep Florida Clean, a political committee headed by James Uthmeier, who was then Gov. Ron DeSantis’ chief of staff and is now state attorney general. Keep Florida Clean fought a proposed constitutional amendment in November that would have allowed recreational use of marijuana.
Tuesday’s hearing was the latest in which House Health Care Budget Chairman Alex Andrade, R-Pensacola, has challenged members of the DeSantis administration about the foundation’s alleged lack of transparency about the $10 million settlement and subsequent grants.
“In recent weeks, the public reporting has made evident that mistakes were made. There are lapses in reporting procedures. The foundation was not provided with the staffing support necessary to ensure all matters were being quickly and appropriately handled,” Hay, who was accompanied by an attorney, told the House panel.
He said his organization is having a board meeting Thursday to address its governance structure and other issues — including missing federal tax reports, known as 990s — highlighted in the House’s inquiry.
Andrade, who took the unusual step of requiring Hay to testify under oath, accused Uthmeier of funneling the money from the Medicaid settlement through the foundation to help pay for the effort
to defeat the proposed constitutional amendment, known as Amendment 3. Andrade said Uthmeier’s actions may have been illegal.
“This is looking more and more like a conspiracy to use Medicaid money to pay for campaign activity,” Andrade told reporters after Tuesday’s meeting.
Andrade said he intends to seek public records — including text messages and emails — from a number of state agency officials, including Uthmeier, and did not rule out issuing a subpoena requiring the attorney general to appear before his panel.
“Give back the money and explain yourself. I mean, how on earth he thought this was legal, moral or ethical. ... And tell us who else was involved,” Andrade said.
Jeremy Redfern, a spokesman for Uthmeier, lashed back at Andrade, accusing him of being tied to a medicalmarijuana company, Trulieve, which spent about $150 million on the ballot initiative.
“This is an unserious probe being driven by an unserious representative who is carrying the water for the very mega-marijuana corporation that spent over $150 million in the effort to allow unrestricted public marijuana use and lost,” Redfern posted on X.
DeSantis appointed Uthmeier as attorney general in February, after former Attorney General Ashley Moody was named to the U.S. Senate.
Department of Children and Families
Secretary Taylor Hatch and Hope Florida Executive Director Erik Dellenback also appeared before the House panel on Tuesday.
As Andrade grilled Hay and the DeSantis administration officials, the governor and first lady held a lengthy appearance in Andrade’s hometown to announce that Hope Florida — a program that operates in numerous state agencies — was expanding to include liaisons at state colleges.
DeSantis, echoing comments he’s made since the probe began, blasted the House and suggested the inquiry was intended to derail a possible gubernatorial run by his wife.
“This is a manufactured hoax, and you have liberal media and liberal Democrats pushing this,” the governor said during an event at Pensacola State College.
Andrade earlier asked Hay whether the foundation’s $10 million in grants were used improperly.
“I had no reason to believe there was anything odd about those grants. … Like all of you, I am eager to understand how these funds were utilized to enhance oversight and accountability,” Hay said.
Hay’s testimony also laid out a web of connections within DeSantis’ inner circle.
Hay said he hired Jeff Aaron, an attorney with close ties to DeSantis, as the foundation’s general counsel after being introduced to him by David Dewhirst, who is Uthmeier’s chief of staff and worked alongside Uthmeier in the governor’s office. Jason Weida, DeSantis’ current chief of staff, was secretary of the Agency for Health Care Administration when the settlement with Centene was made in September.
The foundation also has hired attorney Mohammad Jazil, an attorney with the
firm Holtzman Vogel Baran Torchinsky and Josefiak who frequently represents the state in federal litigation, to help “cure the deficiencies” with its paperwork, Hay said Tuesday. The foundation also contracted with an accounting group two weeks ago, according to Hay.
The revelation about Jazil, who also represented the Keep Florida Clean committee, appeared to catch Andrade off guard. The representative asked Hay to consider using a lawyer who works for the Department of Children and Families, the state agency affiliated with the foundation.
“I have serious concerns about what might be occurring in the post-dating of documentation in the attempt to justify and cover up what actually happened,” Andrade said.
Hay, the founder and CEO of Indelible, also was questioned about his company’s business with the state. Indelible has inked more than 30 contracts totaling more than $119 million with state agencies, including the Department of Children and Families, since 2021, according to the state chief financial officer’s website. The bulk of the contracts deal with emergency-management preparedness or response.
Hay said his company, founded in 2018, “achieved success” before his appointment as chairman of the foundation in 2023.
“We are friends of the administration. We are friends of the Legislature. We know people. We do good work,” Hay said.
Rep. Allison Tant, D-Tallahassee, asked Hay if there was a conflict-of-interest policy for foundation board members. Two lobbyists — Jake Farmer and Fatima Perez — serve on the foundation’s five-member board.
Hay said that was a “deficiency” that would be addressed at Thursday’s board meeting.
Tant said she was “astonished” at how the foundation operated.
“I’m trying to wrap my head around how this happened and how we prevent it from happening again,” she said.
Andrade also asked Hatch who dropped the ball on ensuring the requisite paperwork was filed.
“It’s clear that there were responsibilities of the department and responsibilities of the DSO (the directservice organization, or foundation), from what I’ve been able to gather, the DSO thought DCF was handling some things, DCF thought the DSO was handling things. And so we are absolutely committed to making sure those necessary documents are, in fact, delivered,” in advance of Thursday’s foundation meeting, Hatch said.
House, Senate pass budget plans
By Jim Turner Florida News Service
TALLAHASSEE The House and Senate on Wednesday passed proposed budgets that are billions of dollars apart, giving them a little more than three weeks to mesh their spending goals and reach an agreement on tax cuts.
While the House has proposed cutting the state’s overall sales-tax rate, the Senate on Wednesday outlined a lessaggressive proposal that would provide a permanent sales-tax exemption on clothes and shoes costing $75 or less.
Senate President Ben Albritton, R-Wauchula, said he expects the House and Senate to “end up somewhere in the middle” on a budget. The legislative session is scheduled to end May 2, with the state’s new fiscal year starting July 1.
“We’re going in the right direction. We’re communicating well. We’re working together,” Albritton said after a Senate floor session. “And I have every expectation we’ll get the plane landed.”
Later, House Speaker Daniel Perez, R-Miami, said he expects lawmakers will reach budget
agreements on time, while also saying “we believe in our budget.”
The Senate budget proposal (SB 2500) totals $117.36 billion.
The House proposal (HB 5001) has a bottom line of $112.95 billion and is linked to a $5.4 billion tax package (HB 7031) that includes reducing the overall state sales-tax rate from 6 percent to 5.25 percent.
Gov. Ron DeSantis has said he wants a one-time property tax break for homesteaded properties and to ask voters in 2026 to pass a constitutional amendment to reduce or eliminate property taxes.
He also has requested the elimination over two years of a sales tax on commercial leases and sales-tax “holidays” on school supplies, recreational items, hurricane supplies, ammunition and firearms.
Echoing DeSantis, Rep. Mike Caruso, R-Delray Beach, said no one is “clamoring” for the House sales-tax cut, which he said would only provide “minimum immediate relief” while inadvertently benefitting “out-ofstate visitors and tourists.”
“I’d rather see the money go to real Floridians, the ones that call this state home,” Caruso said before joining a unanimous
vote in support of the House tax proposal.
House Ways & Means
Chairman Wyman Duggan, R-Jacksonville, noted that DeSantis didn’t recommend the one-time property tax cut until after the House “rolled out the sales tax relief.”
The House tax package also would reduce the commerciallease tax from 2 percent to 1.25 percent, cut the sales-tax rate on electricity from 4.35 percent to 3.6 percent, reduce the tax rate on sales of new mobile homes from 3 percent to 2.25 percent and trim the rate on coinoperated amusement machines, such as pinball machines, from 4 percent to 3.25 percent.
Albritton has cautioned against making cuts that lawmakers might have to readdress within a couple of years. On Wednesday, he pitched the proposed sales-tax elimination on clothes and shoes as being “where it can help the most number of Floridians.”
The Senate proposal also would direct the Legislature’s Office of Economic and Demographic Research to study the effects of reducing or eliminating property taxes for homesteaded properties.
Among other things, it would
lead to holding a “back-to-school” tax holiday in August; a tax holiday on disaster-preparedness supplies in June; a tax holiday on recreational items in July; a tax holiday on tools around Labor Day; and a “hunting season” tax holiday in September and October on guns, ammo and other hunting supplies.
The estimated $750 million package is expected to go to the Senate Finance and Tax Committee on Tuesday.
The House and Senate budget proposals are below the $117.46 billion budget lawmakers passed last year before it faced DeSantis vetoes, mid-year adjustments and veto overrides.
Senate Appropriations Chairman Ed Hooper, R-Clearwater, described the goal as “right-sizing” state spending.
The House voted 98-6 to approve its proposed budget, which includes cuts in spending on agencies and programs. Rep. Felicia Robinson, D-Miami Gardens, said the House should invest in programs that promote growth, as reducing services at a time the state has strong reserves will “lead to job losses, reduced public services and a less stable economy.”
“I understand us trying to be conservative, but doing
anything to the extreme can be detrimental,” Robinson said.
The House and Senate agree on some issues, such as continuing to spend $80 million next year on the touristmarketing agency Visit Florida. But they differ in other areas, such as the Senate proposing to spend $750 million for Everglades restoration and the House proposing $357 million.
“Over the last 10 years the Legislature has appropriated nearly $4 billion for Everglades restoration. Of this amount, over $1.1 billion remains unspent, $900 million from the last two fiscal years,” House Agriculture & Natural Resources Budget Chairwoman Rep. Tiffany Esposito, R-Fort Myers, said. “We believe it’s fiscally responsible to reduce our appropriation of funds until the dollars we’ve already appropriated have been spent.”
Seeking to help the state’s troubled citrus industry, the Senate would spend $200 million for research and to help packinghouses and growers, with $125 million included for new trees. The House has proposed $10 million to fight citrus canker disease, which has caused massive damage to the industry over the past two decades.
Photo: [Florida Politics]
House seeks records on agency spending
By Dara Kam Florida News Service
ALLAHASSEE —
TAmid an escalating feud between Gov. Ron DeSantis and the Republican-controlled House, the chamber’s budget chairman on Friday sent letters to six state agencies seeking a broad array of documents as part of a probe into government spending.
The inquiry into DeSantisadministration spending, ordered by House Speaker Daniel Perez, R-Miami, has raised questions about potentially missing stateowned vehicles, agency leaders earning six-figure salaries while living in other states and millions of dollars of interest paid on a prison facility that has not been built.
The most high-profile issue involves a $10 million donation the state’s largest Medicaid managed-care provider made to the Hope Florida Foundation, Inc., a direct-support organization tied to a signature program of Florida First Lady Casey DeSantis. The donation from the Centene managedcare company was part of a $67 million settlement with the state Agency for Health Care Administration, with $57 million going to the agency and $10 million to the foundation.
The letters, sent Friday by House Budget Chairman Lawrence McClure, R-Dover, targeted the Agency for Health Care Administration, the Department of Education, the Florida State Guard, the Department of Management Services, the Department of Corrections and the Division of Emergency Management.
“We’re just looking for accountability and efficiency. That’s it. Nothing more, nothing,” McClure told The News Service of Florida in a phone interview.
The requests focused on issues that arose as House budget panels began delving into ways to slash spending as lawmakers write a budget for the 2025-2026 fiscal year. The House and the Senate approved their proposed budgets on Wednesday, setting up negotiations on a final spending
plan over the final weeks of the legislative session, which is scheduled to end May 2.
McClure gave the agencies until May 16 to respond to the requests for information, meaning the data likely won’t play a role in the upcoming budget talks.
The requests, in part, ask each agency to provide “all communications and documents related to settlement agreements with third parties” and all communications and documents related to the Hope Florida Foundation and to the Hope Florida program.
During a Wednesday meeting, House Health Care Budget Chairman Alex Andrade, R-Pensacola, grilled Agency for Health Care Administration Secretary Shevaun Harris about the $10 million settlement, repeatedly asking her what the money was spent on.
Harris said the foundation is a separate organization from the state Hope Florida program and was unable to provide such details. In a video posted hours later on social media, Harris called the meeting “an ambush”
as DeSantis and other allies continued to clash about the issue with House leaders on social media and conservative media outlets.
DeSantis on Thursday defended the donation and called the $10 million settlement from Centene a “cherry on top” of the deal that was “100 percent appropriate.”
Friday’s letters reflected what Perez has called an increasing “frustration” over a lack of cooperation from some agencies and a dearth of information from others as the House attempted to dig into the DeSantis’ administration’s finances.
The letters pointed to a part of Florida law that gives the Legislature “the right and authority to inspect and investigate the books, records, papers, documents, data, operation and physical plant of any public agency in this state, including any confidential information.”
Each agency is “accountable to the public for how it spends its funds,” McClure wrote to the heads of the six agencies.
“To this end, the House
Budget Committee and its subcommittees have enjoyed productive meetings where we have learned more about the operations of our partners in the executive branch. However, certain information and records stemming from these discussions remain outstanding and are needed in order for the House to continue our oversight function of state agencies,” McClure wrote.
In addition to records related to Hope Florida and the foundation, the requests seek “all communications and documents” related to a swath of other issues.
As an example, the request to the Division of Emergency Management asks for “all communications and documents related to the issuance of executive orders declaring a state of emergency and any extensions thereof” dating back to July 1, 2017 — before DeSantis took office in January 2019.
In another letter, the House also is asking the Department of Management Services for 19 sets of records in categories including “remote workers,” “financial management,” “travel,” and “fleet management.” The request also
seeks information “related to the 2,279 vehicles with acquisition costs totaling $57,046,583 that could not be found or located” in an auditor general report released this year.
It’s unclear whether the agencies intend to hand over to the House what could be a voluminous amount of records.
“Florida’s agencies have already spent hundreds of hours in meetings and document production — only to get hit with another performative request from the House. We’re focused on serving Floridians, while the House is seemingly focused elsewhere,” Molly Best, a DeSantis spokeswoman, said in an email Friday.
But McClure said the efforts to get information from the DeSantis administration could play a role in upcoming budget talks.
“We’re going to either get answers that help us solve the puzzle or we are going to be extremely conservative on what we’re willing to agree to and then we can talk about it next year,” he said in the phone interview.
Other information sought by the House includes records about the state’s school voucher programs. In part, the House wants the Department of Education to provide “records of requests for reimbursement of overpayments to scholarshipfunding organizations” as well as “information on cross-checking processes to prevent duplicate funding for students” in voucher programs.
Andrade, an attorney, acknowledged that the requests to the agencies are broad but said they are dissimilar from public-records requests made by members of the public.
The Legislature is “a separate branch of government tasked with the direction and oversight of the executive branch,” Andrade said in a phone interview Friday.
“We want and we are entitled to everything. You (agency officials) need to actually act in good faith and help us understand what’s going on,” he added. “If we don’t get, we’ll have bigger questions and bigger issues.”
Judge backs more manatee protections
By Jim Saunders Florida News Service
TALLAHASSEE — Pointing to ongoing threats to manatees, a U.S. district judge Friday said the state has violated the federal Endangered Species Act in its regulation of wastewater discharges into the Indian River Lagoon. Orlando-based Judge Carlos Mendoza issued a 21-page decision that sided with the environmental group Bear Warriors United, which argued discharges into the waterway along the East Coast led to the demise of seagrass and, as a result, deaths and other harm to manatees.
Mendoza said the Florida Department of Environmental Protection needs to seek what is known as an “incidental take permit” from federal wildlife officials to help minimize effects of discharges on manatees.
The judge wrote that under the Department of Environmental Protection’s regulations, it would take at least a decade for conditions in the northern part of the Indian River Lagoon to start to recover. That area is primarily in Brevard County.
“This is due to the previously and currently permitted discharge of legacy pollutants via wastewater into the north IRL (Indian River Lagoon),” Mendoza wrote. “These legacy pollutants caused the death of seagrasses — the manatee’s natural forage — and the proliferation of harmful macroalgae. Legacy pollutants, as their name suggests, persist in the environment and cause harmful effects long after they have entered the system.” Mendoza added, “What all this means is that FDEP (the Department of
Environmental Protection) would have to reduce nutrients entering the IRL to a low enough level and for a long enough time for nutrients to cycle out of the system to allow seagrasses to return at significant levels. Conversely, if FDEP does not reduce nutrient levels, there will continue (to) be harmful algal blooms and, in turn, no seagrass recovery and more manatee takings.”
Bear Warriors United filed the lawsuit in 2022, contending that the department had not adequately regulated sewage-treatment plants and septic systems. Florida had a record 1,100 manatee deaths in 2021, with the largest number, 358, in Brevard County.
Many deaths were linked to starvation.
The state had 800 manatee deaths in 2022, before the number dropped to 555 in 2023 and 565 in 2024, according to Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission data. As of April 4, 282 manatees deaths had been reported this year, including 55 in Brevard County.
Manatees are classified by the federal government as a threatened species.
The state’s attorneys have argued during the lawsuit that Florida has taken steps in recent years to try to reduce discharges into the lagoon and disputed that it has violated the Endangered Species Act. As an example, a
state motion for summary judgment last year said the department’s “actions are not the proximate cause of any harm” to manatees.
“The record shows that DEP has not authorized or entitled any party to cause a violation of water quality standards,” the state’s attorneys wrote. “It has, instead, worked diligently to restore an impaired water. There is no proximate cause. DEP is entitled to judgment as a matter of law because with no dispute of material fact, it has not violated the ESA (the Endangered Species Act).”
Under federal law, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service can approve incidental take permits to allow activities, such as wastewater discharges, that are not designed to “take” animals covered under the Endangered Species Act. But as part of that process, what is known as a habitat conservation plan must be developed to minimize effects on species. Mendoza described the lawsuit as a “quintessential case in which an ITP (incidental take permit) should be required.”
“As defendant’s (the state’s) witnesses testified, FDEP is taking important, necessary steps to remediate the polluted waters of the IRL,” Mendoza wrote. “But that is not enough. The north IRL is in such a deteriorated state that the required remediation will take many years, as the state itself has acknowledged. And during that remediation, wastewater discharged pursuant to FDEP’s regulations will continue to indirectly take manatees in the north IRL. ,,, There is a definitive causal link between FDEP’s wastewater regulations and an ongoing risk of manatee takings. While FDEP’s efforts continue, added protection for the manatees is needed. FDEP must obtain an ITP.”
Photo: House Health Care Budget Chairman Alex Andrade is seeking information about Hope Florida. [Florida House]
Photo: U.S. District Judge Carlos Mendoza said more protections are needed for manatees in the Indian River Lagoon. [U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services]
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People, Places and Things
Celebrating Marion’s beauty
The 17th annual Farmland Preservation Festival honored nature.
By Susan Smiley-Height susan@magnoliamediaco.com
From numerous vendors offering lush green plants to those representing such entities as Horse Farms Forever and the Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway, the annual Farmland Preservation Festival was all about what makes Marion County a beautiful place to live.
The event, which took place at the Stirrups ‘n Strides Therapeutic Riding Center at 4246 W Highway 318, between Orange Lake and Citra, featured live animals, a variety of entertainment, food trucks, homemade ice cream, arts and crafts, and a special play area for kids.
While it was free to attend, a $5 donation for parking went to support local preservation efforts.
The event is organized by the nonprofit Save Our Rural Areas group, or SORA, a 501(c)(3) that is concerned about the future of Marion County’s farmland and its future land uses. April has been proclaimed Farmland Preservation Month by the Marion County Board of County Commissioners.
To learn more about the annual event, go to farmlandfestival.org
by Bruce Ackerman
Photos
People check over some of the items on display at booths in the arena during the Farmland Preservation Festival at Stirrups ‘n Strides Therapeutic Riding Center on West Highway 318 in Citra, Fla. on Saturday, April 12, 2025. The event was organized by the nonprofi t Save
Sally Chappell of SORA, left, talks with Lucia Vranizan of King Fisher Variety, right, who had a large variety of plants for sale at her booth during the Farmland Preservation Festival.
People interact with Mack, one of the Stirrups ‘n Strides horses by his stall
Betty Gray of Stirrups ‘n Strides spends some time with Tucker, one of the Stirrups ‘n Strides horses
Carol Blackburn holds her 3-week-old Nigerian Dwarf Goat named Penny during the Farmland Preservation Festival.
Some of the artwork for sale is shown at the Critter Cove Creations booth
Mika Carder, 10, cradles her new found friend, a Holland Lop Rabbit, who she was taking her with her after she and her family bought the rabbit from the Critter Cove Creations booth
Gail McDaniel, right, and Kathy Gray of Stirrups ‘n Strides, center, show Ringo, a miniature horse
Gail Stern of SORA looks over a blue butterfl y plant for sale at one of the booths
HELLO, OCALA!
Meet Your Neighbors: Jim and Nancy Collins
By Eadie Sickler Special to the Gazette
Jim Collins was born in Spartanburg, South Carolina, but grew up in Greenwood. He recently attended his 50th high school class reunion in Greenwood, where he had been quite athletic, having played on the school’s football, basketball and tennis teams. After graduating, he attended Clemson University, where he earned his Bachelor of Science degree in industrial management.
In Greenville, Collins’ mother worked as an executive assistant at the Reliance Mechanical Group headquarters. In his final year at Clemson, he was assigned to write a paper about an industrial company, so he chose Reliance. As a result of that paper, he was hired by Reliance/ Dodge as a sales trainee and was sent for training in Cleveland, Ohio, and elsewhere around the country.
Collins spent 14 years working in sales for Reliance, with his
headquarters in Birmingham, Alabama. He was part of the United States Tennis Association team there, which won city and state division competitions and played in sectional USTA competitions.
Collins was married but later divorced. He has a daughter, Kristin, who lives in Birmingham and has four children, and a son, Brock, who lives in Auburn, Alabama, and has two children. Collins later met and married Nancy, a divorced mother of a son, James, who lives in Cincinnati, Ohio, and has one child. Jim and Nancy have been married for 32 years.
After one of Jim’s biggest customers for Reliance hired him, he moved to Jacksonville, Florida, where he was tasked with selling large equipment to paper mills. He later was offered a job as a regional sales manager with Emerson Electric in Cincinnati, Ohio, covering an area from Michigan to Tennessee. Three years later, he was promoted to director of marketing. He stayed in that position about three years before he was promoted to vice
president of sales. The promotion demanded that he and his family move to Ithaca, New York. His territory covered the United States, Canada and Mexico. He traveled in this position, including to work on a joint venture with a company in Rome, Italy.
After eight years in Ithaca, the company moved its headquarters back to Cincinnati. At this time, Collins had worked for the Emerson company for 15 years. He said the company restructured, so he left and went to work with a private firm in Fort Worth, Texas, where he was executive vice president of sales. The KWS Manufacturing Company, which produced screw conveyors, tasked Collins with growing the company and, in 14 years, the size had tripled. The company was sold and Collins retired.
Nancy has a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of West Florida. She was a systems analyst for Barnett Technology there. She earned her Master of Business Administration degree from
Thomas Moore College in Crestview, Kentucky, and worked for Cincinnati Bell as a financial analyst. She retired when she was 45, she said, as it was her dream to do so.
She also is quite athletic and has a gymnasium set up in their home, where she works out. She has run triathlons and marathon races. The two have snow skied in Vail, Colorado, and Lake Tahoe in Nevada. They went bungee jumping at Dollywood in Tennessee and both said it was a “scary” experience at the time but after the fact, they thought it was
fun. Nancy said it was the most exciting experience of her life.
The couple has also enjoyed indoor sky diving in San Jose, California; parasailing in Acapulco, Mexico; and zip lining in Hawaii and Puerto Rico.
They moved into their home in Stone Creek last November and are still settling in. They like the quietness and amenities, and Jim loves to play golf. The two are looking forward to soon taking up the sport of pickleball.
One of the reasons they decided to live in Ocala, they said, is that it is the least likely place in Florida to get hit by hurricanes.
Spring show, sale and seminars
People
of all ages can learn, share, shop and create at the Ocala Big Bloom Home & Garden Show.
By Susan Smiley-Height susan@magnoliamediaco.com
What’s blooming this time of year?
The Ocala Big Bloom Home & Garden Show, that’s what.
The event will take place April 25-27 at the World Equestrian Center at 1750 NW 80th Ave., Ocala. Visitors can expect to find a wide range of vendors offering everything from seeds and plants to mowers and edgers, and from outdoor kitchens to fairy gardens and teacup rose flower arrangements.
And you Cn even play Big Bloom Bingo for prizes such as a Weber Genesis Grill, a dog garden water feature and a leather power recliner.
Some of the main topics and displays will focus on:
Gardens and landscapes: Get landscaping advice, check out garden supplies, attend seminars and learn about container gardening.
• Outdoor kitchens, carts and BBQs: Find out more about layouts and designs, barbecue grills, smart grilling techniques and outdoor carts.
• Expert garden advice: Local experts can help you get your
yard in top shape and you can have your plants evaluated at the Marion County Master Gardeners Plant Clinic. There will be info about vegetable gardening and microgreens, trees, roses and native plants.
Yard Stop pros: Talk with designers and experts to design the backyard and garden of your dreams. You can chat about landscape design, installation, hardscaping, lighting and pergolas.
• Water-efficient landscaping: Learn about turf, xeriscaping, drought-resistant plants and even rocks.
• Marion County Rose Society Rose Extravaganza: Learn everything you ever wanted to know about roses with a rose gardening stage and an interactive contest where you vote for your favorite rose, most fragrant rose and best arrangement.
• Tree, plant and flower sale: Don’t go home empty handed! Items for sale will include orchids, roses, palm trees, annuals, perennials, statuary and water gardens, and more.
• Mowers, garden supplies and tools: The right tools make any job easier.
• Farmers market: Hosted by Rainbow Rise Family Farm: Fresh veggies, need we say more?
• Fairy garden class: Jenna Workman with Fairy Tale Gardens will provide you all the supplies and instructions you need to make a fairy garden to take it home. Saturday, 11:30am and 1:30pm; Sunday, noon and 2pm. Teacup rose arrangements: Barbara Bull, who grows award-winning roses with her husband, Ed, will lead classes at 11 am and 1 pm on Saturday, and 12:30pm and 2:30pm on Sunday.
• Master Gardeners kids’ activities: Youngsters can paint garden rocks, plant sunflower seeds in peat pots and learn about pollinators, and enjoy crafts to take home, such as wood bird houses, paper plate horses and coloring books. There will be daily giveaways of flower seeds and the first 100 people each day can receive a free sample of Neptune’s Harvest bestselling fish and seaweed fertilizer. The show is free to attend and there is no fee for parking. The event will offer numerous seminars each day, with a full listing on the website. Some
Jim and Nancy Collins pose for a photo at their home in the Del Webb’s Stone Creek subdivision in Ocala, Fla. on Thursday, April 3, 2025. The Collins’ were living in Texas and just recently moved to Ocala. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2025.
NONPROFIT NEWS
BRIEFS
By Susan Smiley-Height susan@magnoliamediaco.com
INAUGURAL TOURNAMENT RAISES $15K+
The first Bruce Kaplan Memorial Golf Tournament, which took place on Feb. 28 at the Stone Creek Golf Club, raised $15,592 for the Reilly Arts Center, the home of the Ocala Symphony Orchestra and Chorus.
Kaplan was president of the Stone Creek Culture Vultures and a frequent visitor to the Reilly Arts Center where his wife, Barbara, sings in the Ocala Symphony Orchestra Chorus. He was an active member of Stone Creek Community Theatre and performed in numerous productions. He was an avid golfer and co-founded “The
PuttHeads” a golf social club at Stone Creek, the news release noted. He died April 22, 2024, according to legacy.com
The tournament, hosted by members of several Stone Creek Community Clubs and friends of Kaplan, brought together more than 85 golfers. The top sponsors of the event were Florida Express Waste & Recycling and Regions Bank.
“We deeply appreciate the strong support of our sponsors, volunteers and the entire Stone Creek community, which came together to remember Bruce and support the performing arts in Marion County,” said Cindy Stelmar, co-chair of the golf
tournament steering committee, in the release
“Never underestimate the impact that a passionate group of volunteers can have. We had no doubt that when this committee was formed in Bruce’s memory that they would host a successful event. The committee has truly helped carry on the vision that Bruce had before his passing and we know he would be thrilled with the final results. The Reilly Arts Center is so grateful for their volunteer service and for this generous contribution to our organization,” Natalie McComb, the center’s executive director, said in the release.
Annual run will pass through Marion County
By Susan Smiley-Height susan@magnoliamediaco.com
The annual Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics Florida is underway. Each year, more than 5,000 officers carry the torch on a 1,500-mile relay through 67 counties in Florida. The run will come through Marion County on April 25, starting at 8 a.m. at the Publix Supermarket at 8080 SE 165th
Mulberry Lane, The Villages. It will finish at the World Equestrian Center at 1284 NW 87th Court Road, Ocala, with a ceremony set to take place from 3:15 to 3:45 p.m. Law enforcement officers from more than 300 Florida agencies— including police departments, sheriff’s offices, Florida Department of Corrections, Florida Department of Law Enforcement, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Drug Enforcement Agency, U.S. Customs, Air Force Police and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission— participate in the annual run to benefit the athletes of Special Olympics Florida. Funds are generated through contributions from individuals and businesses, and sales of T-shirts and caps. The relay will culminate at the opening ceremony of the Special Olympics Florida State Games in May.
To learn more, go to specialolympicsflorida.org
BOOK SALE BENEFITTED ANIMAL SERVICES
The Great Book Sale was sponsored by the Senior Resource Foundation of Ocala, the Rotary Club of IMPACT Ocala and Paddock Mall, and took place on March 22 at the mall.
The event, which was dedicated to the memory of an individual who had a lifelong passion for books and a deep love for animals, raised $1,000 for Marion County
Animal Services.
The Senior Resource Foundation of Ocala is committed to enhancing the lives of seniors through educational programs, community support and outreach initiatives. The Rotary Club of IMPACT Ocala focuses on “Service Above Self,” engaging in projects that benefit the local and global community.
OCALA LEADER HONORED AT DINNER
Valerie Dailey, owner and broker of Showcase Properties, was honored at an American Values Dinner on April 8 at the Circle Square Cultural Center for her dedication to supporting youth development programs.
Her commitment to organizations such as Boy Scouts of America, also known as Scouting America, 4-H and FFA are examples of her belief in the transformative power of these programs and her deep connection to the Marion County community, the news release noted.
“I started out as a Brownie, but when my best friend got a pony, 4-H became a better fit. That decision set me on a path of hands-on learning, responsibility and leadership,” she said in the release, adding emphasis about the importance of activities like camping and learning outdoor skills. “That’s why I’m so excited that the funds we raise tonight will give more kids the chance to
experience camping—because for many of them, this will be their first time hiking a trail, paddling a canoe or sleeping under the stars.”
The Boys Scouts of America North Florida Council serves youth ages 5 to 21.
To learn more, go to nfcscouting.org
Herb Silverman, president-elect, Rotary Club of IMPACT Ocala; Steve Sekac, volunteer; Kyra Lynch and Sasha Tappeiner, with Marion County Animal Services; Phyllis Silverman, founder and [resident, Senior Resource Foundation of Ocala; and Andres Alvarado, Pamela Butscher and Jessica Hahn, with MCAS. [Submitted photo]
Members of Stone Creek Community Clubs and friends of Bruce Kaplan
Valerie Dailey [Submitted photo]
Special Olympics athlete Adrienne Bunn, 17, of Forest High School, held the Special Olympics torch after it was lit by Lt. David Woolf of the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, as members of law enforcement got ready to take off on the Law Enforcement Torch Run For Special Olympics at the Ocala Police Department in Ocala, Fla. on April 13, 2023. [File photo by Bruce Ackerman]
RC sailboat races on Tuscawilla Lake
The Ocala Sailors consists of 20 skippers who race RC sailboats, which are 1 meter in length, in Lake Tuscawilla every Wednesday and Sunday at noon. The group said they welcome new members to join them when they meet.
The lake is located in Tuscawilla Park, 800 NE Sanchez Avenue, Ocala, FL 34470.
MAYO CLINIC
Can humans get bird
DEAR MAYO CLINIC:
Headlines about avian influenza and its spread to other animals concern me. How worried should I be about the bird flu spreading to humans?
ANSWER: Avian influenza remains a concern around the world. While we know the overall risk of avian influenza spreading to humans is low at this time, we also know the virus is transmitting among wild birds to millions of commercial poultry and backyard bird flocks, and we’ve started to see infection in fox, mink and other mammals, such as cattle.
Infections in humans are rare so far. But the more people or animals become infected with a virus, the greater the opportunity it has to undergo changes and adapt over time. We need to approach avian
influenza with a sense of preparedness and put tools in place in the event we see sustained higher rates of transmission in humans. If we take the time to prepare now, we can rapidly deploy those tools and prevent avian influenza from becoming a worldwide problem.
It’s important to provide context around avian influenza, which is common among migratory birds such as waterfowl. As they migrate from the Northern Hemisphere to the Southern Hemisphere and vice versa, they come into contact with other birds and animals. In all 50 U.S. states, avian influenza has been documented in wild migratory birds.
In the wild, migratory birds are a reservoir for the virus but these wild birds often show little
or no symptoms. In commercial poultry or backyard bird flocks, that’s where more severe disease can occur.
Since 2022 in the U.S., millions of commercial poultry and backyard bird flocks have been affected by the current avian influenza outbreak. Avian flu has been documented in commercial poultry and backyard bird flocks in 48 of 50 states.
To date in the U.S., there have been two documented cases of humans contracting avian influenza since 2022. Those individuals may have been infected by coming into close contact with respiratory secretions from an animal that had avian flu or a contaminated surface. Fortunately, no humanto-human transmission of avian influenza has been documented since this large outbreak began
in 2022 among wild birds.
flu?
In humans, avian influenza can present similar to human influenza infection with an upper or lower respiratory tract infection. In a recent Texas case, the patient only described conjunctivitis, which is redness in the eyes, often called pink eye. Symptoms of avian influenza more commonly would range from mild illness like a runny nose, cough, pink eye and mild respiratory illness, but severe respiratory illness and even death can occur.
The key preventive measures for people to take are to:
• Avoid contact with a sick or dead animal, especially birds.
• If you cannot avoid contact with a sick or deceased animal, use precautions such as wearing eye protection, an N95 or well-fitted mask,
Saturday, May 3
and gloves when handling the animal. Afterward, wash your hands with soap and water, and change and wash your clothes. Testing to diagnose avian influenza and medication to treat it would be some of the tools needed if broad transmission among humans is seen. Right now, in the U.S., testing for avian influenza is mainly limited to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and some state health labs. Because of lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic, a diagnostic test to identify avian influenza should be in place faster than what we saw a few years ago.
Antiviral medications used for typical human influenza seem to be effective in treating avian influenza.
Admission to the Appleton is free from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. At 11 a.m. in the auditorium, join us for a double-feature screening of two notab le films in the Godzilla franchise: “Godzilla” (1954) and “The Return of Godzilla” (1984). Films will be shown back-to-back with a 15-minute intermission between, following a brief introduction by Appleton staff. Food trucks will be on-site thro ughout the day, along with LifeSouth Community Blood Centers.
Photos by Bruce Ackerman
Steve Bilcich wades into the lake as he pushes his RC saliboat, that ran aground, back into deeper water as members of the Ocala Sailors "The Motley Crew" race their boats in Lake Tuscawilla at Tuscawilla Park in Ocala, Fla. on Wednesday, April 9, 2025.
Nub Kopisca races his RC saliboat with other members of the Ocala Sailors "The Motley Crew" as they race their boats in Lake Tuscawilla at Tuscawilla Park in Ocala, Fla. on Wednesday, April 9, 2025.
Two ducks and ducklings seem to be racing RC saliboats past the buoy as members of the Ocala Sailors "The Motley Crew" race their boats in Lake Tuscawilla at Tuscawilla Park in Ocala, Fla. on Wednesday, April 9, 2025.
John Workman, right, Leigh Workman, center and Marcus Welch, left, race their RC saliboats with other members of the Ocala Sailors "The Motley Crew" in Lake Tuscawilla at Tuscawilla Park in Ocala, Fla. on Wednesday, April 9, 2025.
This Easter ham is moist and juicy
Many recipes for spiral ham produce meat that’s parched and leathery on the exterior with a glaze that flavors only the outermost edge. For moist meat throughout, we placed our ham in an oven bag, which traps juices and creates a moist environment that cooks it in less time than the dry air of the oven would, and reheated it in a 250-degree oven. We then brushed the ham with a sweet-tart caramel glaze. Since the sugar in the mixture was already caramelized, the glaze needed only a few minutes in a hot oven to acquire a deep mahogany sheen. Finally, we thinned some of the remaining caramel with ham juices to create a sauce to accompany the smoky, salty ham.
Spiral-Sliced Ham Glazed with CiderVinegar Caramel
Serves 12 to 14
1 (7- to 10-pound) spiral-sliced, bone-in half ham, preferably shank end
1 large oven bag
1 1/4 cups sugar
1/2 cup water
3 tablespoons light corn syrup
1 1/4 cups cider vinegar
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/4 teaspoon five-spice powder
1 Adjust oven rack to lower-middle position and heat oven to 250 degrees. Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil and set a wire rack in the sheet. Unwrap ham and, if necessary, discard plastic disk covering bone. Place ham cut side down in an oven bag. Insert temperature probe (if using) through top of ham into center. Tie bag shut and
Jplace ham cut side down on the prepared wire rack. Bake until the center registers 110 F, 3 1/2 to 4 1/2 hours.
2Bring sugar, water, and corn syrup to boil in a large heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium-high heat. Cook, without stirring, until mixture is strawcolored, 6 to 8 minutes. While sugar mixture cooks, microwave vinegar in bowl
Your 2025 England trip might be impacted by … Jane Austen?
ane Austen turns 250 this year, and England is rolling out the Regency red carpet to celebrate. So, if your 2025 travel plans include Britain – Bath, in particular – you might encounter larger-thanusual crowds at Austen hotspots … and a surplus of people sporting high-waisted gowns, petticoats, and long white gloves. Austen is one of England’s most famous authors, having published widely adored novels like “Pride and Prejudice,” “Sense and Sensibility” and “Emma”. As a woman writer in an era dominated by men, she turned the literary pages of social norms by writing strong, independent heroines who often mirrored her own views. (The first version of “Sense and Sensibility” didn’t list Austen as the author; it just said: “By a Lady.”) Even though her books are set in Regencyera England, they still resonate with readers today, thanks to their brilliant blend of realism, romance, and memorable characters. “Pride and Prejudice” alone has inspired countless film and TV adaptations, from
multiple BBC shows to “Bridget Jones’ Diary”.
Austen’s actual birthday is December 16, but England is celebrating throughout 2025 with special events and programs around the country. If you’re just bouncing between major destinations like London, York, and the Cotswolds, this likely won’t impact your travels. But if you’re heading to any of the following Austen-related places, it’s good to be aware and plan accordingly.
Bath is Austen mecca, with various “Austen Points” scattered across town and multiple initiatives dedicated to the city’s “most famous resident.” (Austen lived in Bath for five tumultuousyet-foundational years around 1800 and set two of her novels here.) The Jane Austen Center is a museum that contains no historical artifacts but is still a hit with Austen fans, offering visitors the chance to try on Regency-era costumes, play parlor games like Spillikins, and even go all-out at “Tea with Mr. Darcy.”
The Center also organizes Bath’s annual Jane Austen
Festival, which unfolds genteelly every fall with costumed promenades and parties. Beyond its primary dates (Sept. 12 to 21 this year), the festival is celebrating Austen 250 with a pair of book-themed balls –complete with traditional dance training – on May 31 and June 28, and a heavily indulgent “Yuletide Birthday Ball” in December. Whether you fancy a dance or are merely going to be in Bath around those times, anticipate heavy crowds (and long queues at your favorite local Regency-era tailor).
Beyond Bath, a trio of remote sites in southern England – the Jane Austen House, Steventon, and Winchester Cathedral – are also ports of call for Austen diehards. Located about 1.5 hours southwest of London (on the way to Southampton), these aren’t as convenient as Bath – but each is a 30-minute drive from one another, creating a handy triangle of pilgrimage sites that can easily be done in a day. The best is the Jane Austen House, in the village of Chawton. This is a museum in the building
until steaming, about 90 seconds; set aside.
3 Once sugar mixture is straw-colored, reduce heat to low and continue to cook, swirling saucepan occasionally, until mixture is a dark amber, just smoking and registers 360 to 370 F, 2 to 5 minutes longer. Off heat, add warm vinegar a little at a time, whisking after each addition (some caramel may harden but will melt as sauce continues to cook). When bubbling subsides, add pepper and fivespice powder. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until reduced to 1 1/3 cups, 5 to 7 minutes.
4 Remove sheet from oven and increase oven temperature to 450 F. Once the oven reaches 450, remove ham from bag and transfer to a carving board. Reserve 1/4 cup juices from bag; discard bag and remaining juices. Remove wire rack, leaving foil in place, and return ham to sheet, cut side down. Brush ham evenly with 1/3 cup caramel. Transfer sheet to oven and cook until glaze is bubbling and starting to brown in places, 5 to 7 minutes. Add reserved juices to remaining 1 cup caramel and whisk to combine.
5 Slice ham and serve, passing caramel sauce separately.
where she lived her final years (when, importantly, she wrote most of her novels). The house sports a good collection of artifacts including personal letters, first editions of her books, and her (very small) writing table – and this year is celebrating her birthday with a year-long “Austenmania” exhibit.
Steventon is where Austen was born. It doesn’t normally offer much other than her childhood church, but this year it’s throwing multiple celebratory events including a fair, an art exhibition, and a handful of concerts. Winchester Cathedral, meanwhile, is worth a visit regardless of its Austen ties: It’s the longest medieval cathedral in the world, boasts perfectly preserved Gothic architecture, and is never crowded. Along with Austen’s grave, the Cathedral honors the author with numerous plaques and an impressive memorial stained-glass window
– and will be erecting a life-size statue of her this October.
Then there’s Chatsworth House, a regal estate up in the Midlands, near Nottingham. This was supposedly Austen’s inspiration for Mr. Darcy’s Pemberley mansion in “Pride and Prejudice” (and was the location used for the 2005 film adaptation starring Keira Knightley). It doesn’t hold as much Austen heritage as the other sites, but it’s still fun to visit – and will likely be popular with Jane-iacs this year.
And then there will be balls. Throughout the country, throughout the year: From those book-themed-bashes in Bath, to a festive winter ball at Chatsworth House, and many in between. If you travel with a flowery headpiece or black top-hat, feel free to join in – otherwise, at least you’ll know why so many people in Regency attire are flooding England’s cobbled streets and rickety pubs.
(Carl Tremblay/TCA).
Bath is Austen mecca. The author lived here for five tumultuous-yet-foundational years and set two of her novels here. CREDIT: (Dominic Arizona Bonuccelli, Rick Steves’ Europe).
Government
APRIL 21, 28, MAY 5
Marion County Development Review
O ce of County Engineer, 412 SE 25th Ave., Building 1, Ocala
9am
The committee meets each Monday to review and vote on waiver requests to the Land Development Code, major site plans and subdivision plans. See marion. fl.legistar.com/calendar.aspx for agenda and minutes.
MAY 6, 20
Marion County Board of County Commissioners
McPherson Governmental Campus Auditorium, 601 SE 25th Ave., Ocala
9am
The commission meets in the morning of the first and third Tuesday of the month. Agendas, minutes and video are available at marionfl.legistar.com/calendar.aspx
Ocala City Council
Ocala City Hall, 110 SE Watula Ave., Ocala
4pm
The council meets each first and third Tuesday of the month. Agendas and minutes are available at ocala.legistar.com/calendar.aspx
Belleview City Commission
Belleview City Hall, 5343 SE Abshier Blvd., Belleview
6pm
Meets the first and third Tuesday of the month. Agendas, minutes and video available at belleviewfl.org/200/agendas-minutes
MAY 13, 27
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
MAY 14
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
APRIL 19
Earthfest in Celebration of Arbor Day
Tuscawilla Park, 800 NE Sanchez Ave., Ocala
9am-1pm
The city of Ocala’s Recreation and Parks Department will host Earthfest, the city’s annual Arbor Day celebration. The event will include the Youth Fishing Derby, from 9 a.m. to noon, for ages 14 and younger. Participants are encouraged to bring their own fishing equipment and bait; a limited number of supplies will be available. Additional activities include recreational tree climbing, a rock-climbing wall, eco-friendly vendors, animal rescue organizations, food trucks and the Ocala Clothing Swap. Free tree saplings and pollinator plants will be available while supplies last. Entertainment will be provided by Peaches and Karim. For more information, visit ocalafl.gov/earthfest
APRIL 19 (TO JUNE 14)
Don Philpott lectures Marion County Sheri ’s O ce Substation, 3260 SE 80th St., Ocala
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 Edible Florida, April 19; The History of Wekiwa Springs and Rock Springs Run, May 10; and Florida’s Incredible Wildlife, June 14. For details, call (352) 671-8560.
APRIL 25
NAACP of Marion County Freedom Fund & Awards Banquet
Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place, 1821 NW 21st Ave., Ocala 6pm The keynote speaker will be Cong. Maxwell Frost. Tickets are $75 per person or $140 per couple. For details, call (352) 351-4560 or email marioncountyflnaacp@gmail.com
Arts
APRIL 18 – 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 Larry McRay (blues). Each event features food trucks, interactive activities and a spotlight on a local nonprofit. Find details at ocala .gov
APRIL 18
Steeln’ Peaches: Tribute to the Allman Brothers Band
Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE 9th St., Ocala
7:30pm Celebrate 55 years of the Allman Brothers Band. With exceptional talent, dynamic chemistry and a commitment to honoring the band’s expansive jams and virtuosic compositions, Steeln’ Peaches delivers an electrifying experience. Find out more at reillyartscenter.com
APRIL 18
Sit Down for Stand Up
Marion Theatre, 50 S. Magnolia Ave., Ocala
7:30pm Live stand-up comedy event featuring three talented and hilarious comics. Learn more at reillyartscenter.com
APRIL 24-26
The Music Man presented by Redeemer Christian School
Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE 9th St., Ocala
April 24, 25 and 26, 7pm; April 26, 2pm
There’s trouble in River City when a fast-talking salesman gets his heart stolen by the town librarian. Meredith Willson’s six-time, Tony Award-winning musical comedy has been entertaining audiences since 1957 and is a family-friendly story to be shared with every generation. For details, go to reillyartscenter.com
APRIL 25
Blues in the Box: Will Johns
NOMA Black Box, Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE 9th St., Ocala
7:30pm The British Blues artist blends classic and modern blues rock with mastery in the studio and on stage. Coming from a legendary musical family—son of producer Andy Johns (Rolling Stones, Led Zeppelin) and nephew of Glyn Johns (The Beatles, Eric Clapton)—Will’s passion for music runs deep. He has performed alongside music icons including Eric Clapton, Ronnie Wood and Nile Rodgers. Learn more at reillyartscenter.com
APRIL 25
Shelly Belly
Marion Theatre, 50 S Magnolia Ave., Ocala
7:30pm Shelly has become one of the top comedians in the United States, delighting fans with her hilarious stand-up comedy. Studio Lambert discovered Shelly Belly aka Michelle Rider on her social media platforms and chose her to be on the number one reality show “The Circle” Season 3 on Netflix. Shelly has been featured in Entertainment Tonight, NBC, Fox, Parade, Screen Rant, Stars Offline, Women’s Health, Yahoo News, Decider, Men’s Health, IMDb as well as many other publications. Learn more at reillyartscenter.com
APRIL 26 & 27
Kingdom of the Sun Concert Band “By Request” Concert
The Kingdom of the Sun Concert Band presents its popular “By Request” concerts on Saturday, April 26th at 2:00 PM and Sunday, April 27th at 3:00 PM at the Marion Technical Institute auditorium,1614 E. Fort King Street in Ocala. Under the direction of J. Craig Lilly, the band will perform song requests from our patrons, collected at our February concert. Concert goers are encouraged to come one hour prior to each concert to enjoy the award-winning Howard Middle School Jazz Band, directed by Brittany Schofield, on Saturday and Jimmy Jamz and the Off beats, a percussion ensemble led by Jimmy Sexton, on Sunday
MAY 6 (REGISTER BY APRIL 25)
Adult Mental Health First Aid Training Via Zoom 9:30am-4:30pm The nationally recognized course, created by the National Council for Mental Wellbeing, teaches you how to identify, understand and respond to signs of mental health and substance use challenges in adults. It is for parents, teachers, coworkers, friends, neighbors, service providers and others. The training is facilitated by certified instructors from the Community Council Against Substance Abuse and the Marion County Children’s Alliance. Thanks to funding from the Marion County Hospital District, the course is available at no cost to Marion County residents. RSVP at docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdyxUUjxR5smOTaSl6R wriKZUBE9PtkKQ7Y-lEbDyzjKGQkXg/viewform?pli=1
APRIL 25-27
Ocala Big Bloom Home & Garden Show
World Equestrian Center, 1750 NW 80th Ave., Ocala Times vary The show will include seminars, sales, activities for kids, bingo games for prizes, and more. Free admission and free parking. Learn more at OcalaBigBloom.com
APRIL 26
Drive-up Food Giveaway
Revealing Truth Ministries Outreach Christian Center, 757 SW 62nd Court, Ocala 10am (while supplies)
The Beyond Us Community Development Corporation presents this outreach. Learn more by calling (352) 209-7515 or visiting revealingtruthocc.org
APRIL 26
Kimberly’s Center 5K Race Against Child Abuse
A. Colen Academy, 5080 SW 66th Court Road, Ocala 8am Calesa Township, by Colen Built Development, will sponsor and host the 13th annual race. The 5K brings awareness to Child Abuse Prevention Month and raises funds to support services and programs for children suffering trauma, abuse and neglect in Marion County. The first 250 runners registered will receive a special edition 5K t-shirt. The first 800 runners will receive a challenge medal. For registration, visit kimberlys5krace.itsyourrace.com/event.aspx?id=15593
APRIL 29
Early Childhood Forum with Derek Clarke
Mary Sue Rich Community Center, 1821 NW 21st Ave, Ocala
11:30am-1:30pm Derk Clark, known for his “Rapping Dad” videos that have garnered over 250 million views, is the keynote speaker for the Early Learning Coalition of Marion County’s second annual Early Childhood Forum. Clark will share his powerful and inspiring story of survival, resilience and overcoming adversity. The free luncheon event is open to all. tickets can be reserved at ELC-Marion.org/events/early-childhoodforum/.
APRIL 30
Nationwide Day of Second Chances Revealing Truth Ministries Outreach Christian Center, 7575 SW 62nd Court 11am-2pm Better Together, a nonprofit dedicated to helping families thrive, is breaking down employment barriers by hosting a series of background-friendly job fairs as part of its Nationwide Day of Second Chances. To learn more, go to bettertogetherus.org/nwdsc. Job seekers may also text “JOBS” to 844-987-3949 to register for the job fair.
Shelly Belly will perform on April 25 at the Marion Theater in downtown Ocala. [Photo courtesy Reilly Arts Center]
Filephoto from Kingdom of the Sun event
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 COUNTY COURT FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA
Case No. 42 2024 CC 001915
against Decedent's Estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS
LIVE OAK VILLAGE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION INC., Plaintiff, vs. TRAJAN CVETANOSKI, AND all other persons claiming by, through, under, or against named DEFENDANT, Defendant. ___/ NOTICE OF SALE
Notice is given that pursuant to a final judgment in Case Number 42 2024 CC 1915 of the County Court of the Fifth Judicial Circuit in and for Marion County, Florida, in which Live Oak Village Condominium Association, Inc., is the Plaintiff and Trajan Cventanoski is the Defendant, Gregory C. Harrell, the Marion County Clerk of the Court, will sell to the highest and best bidder for cash online at www.marion.realforeclose.com, at 11:00 a.m. on May 21, 2025, the following described property set forth in the Final Judgment of Foreclosure: Unit No. 202-D of Building W, Live Oak Village Condominium, a Condominium, according to The Declaration of Condominium recorded in O. R. Book 546, Page 162, and all exhibits and amendments thereof, Public Records of Marion County, Florida.
Parcel Identification Number: 90493-23202 Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date
Public Notice
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MARION
COUNTY, FLORIDA
IN RE: ESTATE OF ROBERT THURMAN TEETER, Deceased. CASE No. 2025CP000404
DIVISION: PROBATE / NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of ROBERT THURMAN TEETER, deceased, whose date of death was on September 15, 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for Marion County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 110 NW 1st Ave #1, Ocala, FL 34471.
The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative's attorney are set forth below.
All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent's estate on whom a copy of this notice is 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.
A personal representative or curator has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent's death by the decedent or the decedent's surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss. 732.216-732.228, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under s. 732.2211.
The written demand must be filed with the clerk.
All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent's estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE.
ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM
FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE
AFTER THE DECEDENT'S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.
The date of first publication of this notice is April 11, 2025.
Attorney for Personal Representative:
/s/ Shannine Anderson
Shannine Anderson, Esq.
Attorney for Petitioner
Florida Bar Number: 105698 Regalis Law, P.A.
255 Primera Blvd, Ste 160 Lake Mary, Florida 32746
Tel & Fax: (321) 448-0408
Email: Shannine@RegalisLaw.com
Personal Representative: /s/ Karen Kristen Rufer
Karen Kristen Rufer
253 E. Delaware Place, Unit 22A Chicago, Illinois 60611
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