OG Digital Edition 01-09-2026

VOLUME 7 ISSUE 3

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Mark Emery’s “Our Amazing Wild Backyard” Pg B1 JANUARY 9 - 15, 2026

Legislative update: Marion County discusses the legislative 2026 session

By Jennifer Hunt Murty jennifer@ocalagazette.com

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uring the Jan. 6 Marion County Board of County Commissioners meeting, Legislative Manager Matthew Cretul presented a preview of the 2026 Florida Legislative Session, which is scheduled to run from Jan. 13 through March 13.

Cretul highlighted that property taxes and growth management are expected to be the dominant issues in Tallahassee this year. The Florida House has released a tax package consisting of eight bills, seven of which are joint resolutions that would ultimately require voter approval.

While there is a high volume of property tax bills filed, Cretul noted the House, Senate, and governor’s office are not on the same page, which may slow drastic legislative changes unless a consensus is reached.

Locals to compete in Olympic Winter Games Brittany Bowe, left, and Erin Jackson, right, pose together after qualifying for the Winter Olympics during the U.S. Olympics long track speedskating team trials at the Pettit National Ice Center in Milwaukee, WI. on Jan. 3, 2026. [Courtesy Erin Jackson FB]

Ocala’s Brittany Bowe and Erin Jackson will travel to Italy in February.

By Susan Smiley-Height susan@magnoliamediaco.com

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Ocala, who will coach Team Belgium Short Track athletes in Italy:

he Olympic Winter Games will be held from Feb. 6 to 22 in Milano Cortina, Italy. Among the sporting competitions is speedskating and Ocala is home to two of the greatest skaters of all time, Brittany Bowe and Erin Jackson.

Both recently qualified for the Winter Games.

Bowe has won numerous titles and medals, and Jackson became the first Black woman to win a Winter Olympic gold medal in an individual sport, along with many other accolades.

According to the U.S. Speedskating website, on Jan. 3, at the Pettit National Ice Center in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, during the 2026 Olympic Team Trials - long track, Bowe, Jackson, Jordan Stolz, Conor McDermottMostowy and Cooper McLeod qualified to represent Team USA at the Olympic Winter Games. Jackson won the 1000-meter in a time of 1:14.625 and will be headed to her third Winter Olympic Games. Bowe took a close second with a time of 1:15.016 and looks to Milan as her fourth Olympic Games.

Here is information provided by the Team USA website about the two athletes as well as their former teammate, Joey Mantia, also of

BRITTANY BOWE

She is 37 and a graduate of Florida Atlantic University. She was an Olympian in 2014, 2018 and 2022. She is the daughter of Debbie and Michael Bowe and grew up playing basketball and soccer. Her Olympic specialty is long track.

Bowe played basketball for the Florida Atlantic Owls and was inducted into the Florida Atlantic University’s Hall of Fame in 2019 She began inline skating at the age of 8 and transitioned to speedskating in the 2010 post-Olympic Winter Games Vancouver 2010. She is an 11-time inline skating world medalist and 17-time speedskating world medalist.

Throughout her career, Bowe has represented the United States in multiple Winter Olympics, earning a bronze medal in the team pursuit event at the Olympic Winter Games PyeongChang 2018. She and curler John Shuster shared the honor of carrying the American flag at the opening ceremony of the Olympic Winter Games Beijing 2022. She has also secured numerous medals in world championships and world

cup events, solidifying her status as a leading figure in speed skating.

Off the ice, Bowe is dedicated to giving back to the community, a proud ambassador of “Right to Play,” an organization dedicated to empowering children in disadvantaged communities through organized sports. An openly gay athlete, she uses her platform to advocate for inclusivity and representation in sports. She has also spoken with Fortune 500 companies, organizations and retreats on topics like inclusion, leadership, empathy, health and wellness. Bowe prioritizes physical, mental and spiritual wellness through yoga.

ERIN JACKSON

FRUSTRATION OVER THE LACK OF PROGRESS TOWARDS SILVER SPRINGS SWIMMING

Commissioner Michelle Stone requested a status update regarding the return of swimming to Silver Springs State Park. Cretul reported that while the St. Johns River Water Management District has completed its permitting portion, the project currently sits with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) pending a funding request of $2.5 million.

Both Stone and Chairman Carl Zalak are frustrated with the stalled progress. Zalak noted that despite funding being secured previously, the state has not fulfilled the promise made to the community in 2014 to return swimming to the springs. The board discussed escalating the issue by sending a letter directly to Gov. Ron DeSantis’ office to outline the original agreement and demand action.

She is 33 and a graduate of the University of Florida. She is the daughter of Rita and Tracy Jackson. Her Olympic specialties are 500-meter, 1,000-meter and team sprint.

Jackson works with Edge Outdoors, an organization that helps women of color get into sports like skiing and snowboarding and wants to start something similar in speedskating. Her hobbies are pickleball and kickball with friends

Commissioner Kathy Bryant raised concerns regarding the statutory restrictions on the use of Tourist Development Tax (TDC) dollars. With

See Olympic Winter Games, page A7

See Legislative, page A8

FRUSTRATION OVER LIMITATIONS FOR USE OF TOURIST DEVELOPMENT TAX REVENUE

Three veteran MCFR supervisors ousted Attorneys allege flawed investigation in Station 21 scandal.

By Jennifer Hunt Murty jennifer@ocalagazette.com

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hree Marion County Fire Rescue supervisors with decades of combined service have lost their jobs as the fallout continues following the alleged violent hazing of a firefighter by colleagues at the county’s busiest fire station in November of 2025.

While Battalion Chief Charles

Balik, Capt. Victor Payette and Lt. Frederick Bowers have all lost their positions, at least two are claiming unfair treatment by Marion County officials. Payette and Bowers have filed grievances with MCFR and County Administrator Mounir Bouyounes. If their grievances are not resolved at this level, they can go before an arbitrator under the terms of the firefighters’ union’s collective bargaining agreement.

Marion County Fire Rescue Deputy Chief Robert Graff speaks during a meeting with the Marion County Board of County Commissioners and Marion County Professional Firefighters Local #3169 at the Ocala Public Library Headquarters on Nov. 17, 2025. [Bruce Ackerman/ Ocala Gazette file photo]

Balik resigned in lieu of being fired. Payette and Bowers declined to resign, maintaining they have been truthful with investigators about the incident and its aftermath. Both were then fired without the opportunity to question their accusers or to present exculpatory evidence.

The actions stem from the Nov. 16 incident when four workers at See MCFR, page A3

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January 9 - 15, 2026 | OCALA GAZETTE

EQUINE NEWS

By Susan Smiley-Height susan@maganoliamediaco.com

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OBS GRADS UP FOR ECLIPSE AWARDS

ive horses who are graduates of Ocala Breeders’ Sales Company auctions recently were announced as finalists for the 2025 Resolute Racing Eclipse Awards, which honors excellence in thoroughbred racing.

The Eclipse Awards are voted upon by the National Thoroughbred Racing Association, represented by member racetrack racing officials and Equibase field personnel, National Turf Writers and Broadcasters and Daily Racing Form, and are produced by the NTRA, according to the OBS news release.

The NTRA website notes that winners in 17 horse and human categories will be announced on FanDuel TV and other outlets during the 55th annual Resolute Racing Eclipse Awards, presented by John Deere, The Jockey Club and the NTRA, on Jan. 22 at 7:30 p.m. The evening will culminate with the announcement of the 2025 Horse of the Year. The ceremony will be held in Palm Beach.

The OBS graduates, according to its news release, are:

was purchased for $550,000 out of the Best A Luck Farm consignment by Donato Lanni, agent for owner Baoma Corp, at the 2023 OBS April Sale after breezing in :9 4/5.

“The press was to serve the governed, not the governors.”

- U.S. Supreme Court Justice Hugo Black in New York Times Co. v. United States (1971)

Cy Fair is a finalist for champion 2-Year-Old Filly. [Photo courtesy Ocala Breeders’ Sales Company]

Shisospicy is a finalist for three divisional honors: Champion 3-Year-Old Filly, Female Sprinter and Female Turf. [Photo courtesy Ocala Breeders’ Sales Company]

• Shisospicy - Morplay Racing’s Shisospicy (Mitole – Mischief Galore, by Into Mischief ) is a finalist for three divisional honors: Champion 3-YearOld Filly, Female Sprinter and Female Turf. The daughter of Mitole won three graded stakes in 2025 with the highlight coming when she became the first 3-year-old filly to win the $1 million Breeders’ Cup Turf Sprint (G1) Nov. 1 at Del Mar. Trained by Jose D’Angelo, Shisospicy was offered at the 2024 OBS April Sale by Hartley/DeRenzo Thoroughbreds where she was an RNA after breezing in :9 3/5.

• Nysos - Fellow OBS April grad Nysos (Nyquist – Zetta Z, by Bernardini) is also up for multiple honors as a finalist for Older Dirt Male and Male Sprinter. Trained by Bob Baffert for owner Baoma Corp and lessees Susan Magnier, Derrick Smith and Michael B. Tabor, Nysos earned four graded stakes victories in 2025, including his victory in the Breeders’ Cup Dirt Mile (G1) at Del Mar. He

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• Cy Fair - Swinbank Stables, Medallion Racing, Joey Platts, and Mark Stanton’s Cy Fair (Not This Time-Remarqued, by Arch), a graduate of the 2025 OBS April Sale, is a finalist for champion 2-YearOld Filly on the strength of her victory in the $1 million Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Turf Sprint (G1) Oct. 31 at Del Mar. Cy Fair became the second filly to win the race, joining Twilight Gleaming (IRE) in 2021. The daughter of Not This Time was purchased by Swinbank for $185,000 at this year’s OBS April Sale out of the Niall Brennan Stables consignment after breezing in :9 4/5.

• Bentornato - Leon King Stable Corp. and Julia and Michael Iavarone’s Bentornato (Valiant MinisterHer Special Way, by Put It Back), is a finalist for champion Male Sprinter after scoring a 2 ¼-length victory in the $2 million Breeders’ Cup Sprint (G1) at Del Mar. He is a two-time OBS graduate, having been sold by Stuart Morris at the 2022 October Yearling Sale and then purchased by Champion Equine for $170,000 out of the Golden Rock Thoroughbreds consignment at the 2023 March Sale after breezing in :20 4/5.

• Brant - Zedan Racing Stables’ Brant (Gun RunnerTynan, by Liam’s Map), who set an all-time OBS record when he sold for $3 million at the 2025 March Sale of Two-Year-Olds in Training, is a finalist for champion 2-Year-Old Male following a three-race campaign that saw him earn a victory in the Grade 1, $300,000 Del Mar Futurity Sept. 7 before finishing third in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile (G1). Brant was consigned to the OBS March Sale by Eddie Woods and lit up the board in record-setting fashion after breezing in :9 3/5, the fastest time of any horse in the March catalogue.

vast Florida thoroughbred industry, a $3.2 billion economic driver in the Sunshine State with more than 90,000 thoroughbreds and 33,500 jobs, according to the news release from FTBOA. The FTBOA is the registered owner of the Horse Capital of the World trademark identifying the Ocala/ Marion County area as an equine epicenter with more horses and ponies than any other single county in North America, the release noted.

Restaurant co-owner dies in Ocala Diane German helped run Wolfy’s Restaurant on Silver Springs Boulevard.

By Andy Fillmore andy@ocalagazette.com

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amily members, friends and customers are mourning the death of Diane German, co-owner of Wolfy’s Restaurant, a landmark location for decades at 2159 E. Silver Springs Blvd., in Ocala.

“She will be greatly missed,” said server Taylor Stewart at the restaurant on Jan. 6.

German, 72, was found deceased in a residential pool in Ocala on Dec. 28, 2025.

The Ocala Police Department is “currently investigating the circumstances” of her death, according to OPD Public Information Officer Jeffrey Walczak.

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For the complete list of finalists, go to ntra.com/2025eclipse-awards-finalists-announced

PARTNERSHIP AGREEMENT

lorida Coast Equipment has entered into a partnership agreement with the Florida Thoroughbred Breeders’ and Owners’ Association making Kubota the exclusive tractor, mower, utility vehicle and construction equipment sponsor of the Florida thoroughbred industry, starting this year.

The long-term agreement places the Florida Coast Equipment – Kubota brand front and center in the

Publisher Jennifer Hunt Murty jennifer@ocalagazette.com

Diane German and her son Anthony Viktora pose with two signature dishes at Wolfy’s Restaurant on East Silver Springs Boulevard in Ocala on Jan. 18, 2024. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette file photo]

Anthony Viktora, German’s son and restaurant co-owner, was at the eatery on Jan 6. He was joined by his wife, Erica, an Army combat veteran

of Iraq in 2008, and their son, Logan, 11 months. Viktora, 48, said he “partnered with his mother” on taking over the restaurant on Jan. 2, 2024, and he was “not walking away” from the operation in her memory.

German had come out of retirement following the passing of her husband during the COVID-19 pandemic to purchase Wolfy’s and run the establishment with him, Viktora stated.

He described his mother as “strong willed” and “very young acting.” He called the food service industry “challenging.”

Viktora said for now it’s “business as usual” but he has an “open mind” about the future of the business.

“This restaurant, the employees, that’s her family,” Viktora said.

Correction: The Ocala Camellia Society’s annual show will take place Jan. 24 and 25. One of the dates was incorrect in last week’s paper.

Our mission is to inform and uplift our readers by reporting on the events, issues and stories that shape Ocala with accuracy, fairness and passion.

We also strive to serve as a forum where all voices can be heard and to chronicle our community’s history.

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January 9 - 15, 2026 | OCALA GAZETTE

MCFR Continued from page A1 Station 21 allegedly assaulted and terrorized a 19-year-old employee who had been with MCFR for five months.

The four have been fired and arrested on charges including kidnapping, battery and robbery.

County officials said the MCFR supervisors have been dismissed because of their alleged failure to properly report and handle the situation according to department policy.

The ousters have pitted the county’s claims against charges of dereliction of duty against the two supervisors’ claims that they have been denied key information necessary for them to prepare a defense and that the county’s administrative investigative process leading to their dismissal was fatally flawed.

The case has also sparked questions about the culture within the MCFR as several firefighters have indicated that this may not be an isolated incident, as Chief James Banta has suggested in press conferences.

The county provided the “Gazette” recorded statements of the MCSO interviews and termination meetings of all the employees on Dec. 19, five days after they announced the conclusion of the investigations. The following account is based on a “Gazette” review of approximately 20 hours of audio as well as other relevant public records obtained.

ALLEGATIONS REGARDING THE INCIDENT

The four MCFR workers who have been arrested in connection with the incident are paramedic Kaylee K. Bradley, 25, charged with felony robbery and principal/accessory to robbery.

Firefighter/EMT Tate Trauthwein, 19; EMT Edward Kenny III, 22; and firefighter/EMT Seth Day, 22, a firefighter/EMT, have all been charged with felony robbery.

The arrest affidavit states the victim was working at the station as a “floater” to fill a vacancy when a series of minor disputes led to the victim being held down while he was beaten with his own belt and had his cellphone and other belongings taken.

The allegations include felony kidnapping for confining the victim, misdemeanor battery and causing bodily harm by whipping him with a belt and waterboarding him using a towel and dripping water onto it.

The victim recounted that he called out during the altercation for the lieutenant and was told by his assailants that, “He’s not here to save you.”

The victim told detectives the incident happened outside sometime between 9:30 and 10 p.m. and he believed that both Payette and Bowers were asleep inside the station at the time.

The incident came to light the day after the victim got off shift when the victim mentioned to a fellow firefighter assigned to Station 12, Michael Gatto, what had occurred in a telephone conversation around 8 p.m. on Nov. 18. Gatto said he would share the information at his station after he “slept on it.”

Gatto told detectives that he reported the incident that the victim described through his Station 12 chain of command and it seems, based on text messages reviewed by the “Gazette,” that senior fire officials outside of Station 21 became aware of the incident the morning of Nov. 19.

In the interview Gatto gave detectives at MCSO, he said “razzing” is an accepted part of the fire department culture. Speaking of the victim, Gatto told the detectives, “He knows like everyone has razzed on him just because that’s what the fire department is.

Everyone razz on the new guys.”

But in this incident, Gatto acknowledged, the firehouse antics went way too far.

20-YEAR BATTALION CHIEF RESIGNED IN LIEU OF TERMINATION The county’s report was unequivocal concerning Balik’s role, noting “the deliberate withholding of material information during an active criminal investigation constitutes conduct unbecoming and dishonesty as defined by departmental standards.”

Balik, who who served as a battalion chief over multiple stations, including 21, maintained during his interview

with county officials that he found out about the incident on the same day he was alerted that county and MCFR leaders would be descending upon the station to investigate. Balik said he thought it was best that he not launch his own investigation at that time, because he had concerns about navigating the firefighter bill of rights contained in the collective bargaining agreement with the firefighters’ union.

19-YEAR CAPTAIN FIRED

The county listed several aggravating factors in its decision to terminate Payette, who had only months earlier been promoted to captain. These included possessing early knowledge of a serious assault, directing the deletion of evidence, providing inconsistent accounts to command staff and law enforcement, and ultimately impairing both the administrative and criminal investigations. Payette denied the allegations and was accompanied by attorney Erica Hay at a Dec. 17 “termination meeting” with Deputy MCFR Chief Robert Graff and Assistant County Administrator Amanda Tart.

During the meeting, Hay asked: “Can you just clarify what this meeting is because (Payette) has never been interviewed that I’m aware of, and county policy and past practice is that when there’s a full administrative investigation conducted …, normally the captain or the firefighter is questioned during the investigation, but here that did not happen with him.”

Tart responded, “This is a pretermination hearing… The investigation is concluded.”

Tart decided to fire the supervisors based on Graff’s recommendation and after listening to statements Payette gave to law enforcement on Nov. 21 and 24, before Sheriff Billy Woods’ press conference on Nov. 26 about the incident.

In that statement, Payette told a detective, “I’m literally walking around completely in the blind here.” He asked the detectives if they could share the details of what happened because his recollection of Nov. 16 (the date of the alleged incident) was that it was a normal day and recalled spending most of it greasing fire trucks at the station.

Hay pointed out that Payette had not been told who made the accusations against him.

“There’s like a little bit of a step missing,” she said.

Tart disagreed and said the investigation was concluded without the need to interview Payette, adding that the investigators relied only on the statements given by others to law enforcement.

11-YEAR LIEUTENANT FIRED

Bowers, an 11-year MCFR veteran who had recently been promoted to lieutenant, was covering a shift for another lieutenant at Station 21 on Nov. 16 so he wasn’t working with his usual crew. The county charged him with observing harassment and violence and failing to report it. According to his administrative investigation, this failure violated his “affirmative duty to immediately report credible information.” The county concluded that he failed to exercise sound judgment by disengaging from a serious incident.

Bowers attended his termination meetings on Dec. 18 and 19 with attorney Jennifer Seymour, who also questioned the way the investigation was conducted.

“I have serious concerns that the procedures are not being followed completely here… not having the benefit of being able to see any of those statements and not having witnessed it [the incident] makes it very hard for him to be able to provide any information to you guys, especially noting the quick turnaround. We got the letter less than two days ago,” Seymour told Graff and Tart.

Seymour added, “I believe that there has been some problems in this investigation that we’d like to clear up… but we need to see those statements and considering that they exist, you guys have them, we’re just asking for an opportunity to review them.”

Bowers gave a statement about his fire service accomplishments, adding that he had no knowledge of the incident while it was happening and only learned of it third hand after MCFR management had initiated action.

Like Payette, Bowers was not given the opportunity to address the accusers or to provide evidence on his behalf.

“I have serious concerns with the validity of this investigation if it has

led you to the conclusion to fire and terminate this officer. I don’t believe that’s appropriate,” Seymour told the county representatives. Any judgment, she added, “should be based on real facts instead of just being swept up and being blamed for things.”

Tart stated that the internal investigation was not yet closed and then dismissed the procedural objection, stating, “You’re welcome to get the public records from the sheriff’s office. I understand that you won’t have them for this meeting. But I don’t know that you need to have them for this meeting.”

During Bowers’ interview with Marion County Sheriff’s Office detectives, he recounts receiving notice of his suspension and recourse under the firefighters’ bill of rights without any explanation of what was being investigated. Bowers says he asked MCFR Division Chief Joshua Alvarez and Graff if he needed a union representative while they spoke with him about the incident. He said they told him, “Not now.”

Bowers had the detectives to his home and answered questions the day after the suspension. He said MCSO Detective Jason Williams assured him, “You’re not in any trouble with us… We’re just trying to understand what happened.”

A TIMELINE OF RUMORS AND HEARSAY

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION Notice IN IN RE: THEESTATE CIRCUITOF COURT FOR Public MARION COUNTY, PROBATE DIVISION FLORIDA IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MARION COUNTY, MICHAEL E. MALONE, IN RE: ESTATE OF FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION IN RE: ESTATE OF MICHAEL E. MALONE, MICHAEL E. MALONE, Deceased.

Deceased.

Deceased.

File No. 2025-CP-3129 Division PROBATE File No. 2025-CP-3129 File No. 2025-CP-3129 Division PROBATE

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Division PROBATE

The administration of the Estate NOTICE of MICHAEL TO CREDITORS E. MALONE, deceased, whose date of death was November 19, 2025,NOTICE is pending the Circuit Court for Marion County, Florida, TOinCREDITORS The administration of address the Estate of MICHAEL E. MALONE, deceased, whose date of Probate Division, the of which is 110 NW 1st Ave. Ocala, Florida 34475.

The death was is pending in theE. Circuit Court Marion representative's County, names andNovember addresses of 2025, the personal representative and thefor personal The administration of19, the Estate of MICHAEL MALONE, deceased, whose Florida, date of Probate Division, the below. address which is in 110 1stCourt Ave. Ocala, Florida 34475.

The attorney are set forth death was November 19, 2025, of is pending theNW Circuit for Marion County, Florida, names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative's All creditors of the and other claims orFlorida demands against Probate Division, thedecedent address of which is persons 110 NW having 1st Ave. Ocala, 34475.

The attorney areestate set forth decedent's on below. whom copy of this notice is required be served must file their names and addresses of theapersonal representative and thetopersonal representative's All creditors of court the decedent and other persons claims or AFTER demands against claims with ON OR BEFORE THE LATERhaving OF 3 MONTHS THE TIME attorney arethis set forth below. decedent's estate ondecedent whom a copy of thisNOTICE notice isOR required to beAFTER served mustDATE file their OF THE FIRST OF THIS 30 DAYS THE OF All creditors of PUBLICATION the and other persons having claims or demands against claims withOF this ON THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE SERVICE A court COPY OFOR THIS NOTICE ON THEM. decedent's estate on whom a BEFORE copy of this notice is required to be served must fileTIME their OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF NOTICE OR 303 DAYS AFTER THEheld DATE OF The personal representative noTHIS duty to discover whether any property at the claims with this court ON ORhas BEFORE THE LATER OF MONTHS AFTER THE TIME SERVICE OF A PUBLICATION COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. time of the decedent's death by the decedent or OR the 30 decedent's surviving is OF THE FIRST OF THIS NOTICE DAYS AFTER THE spouse DATE OF The personal representative hasNOTICE no duty to discover whether any property held at the property toOF which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death SERVICE A COPY OF THIS ON THEM. time ofdescribed the decedent's deathhas by no theduty decedent or thewhether decedent's surviving spouse is Act as in ss. 732.216-732.228, Florida Statutes, applies, may apply, unless The personal representative to discover any or property held at the property to which the Florida of Community Property Rightsspouse at Death a written demand is made byUniform a by creditor as specified under s. 732.2211, Florida Statutes. time of the decedent's death theDisposition decedent or the decedent's surviving is Act as described 732.216-732.228, Florida Statutes, applies, or apply, unless All other creditors ofss. the decedent and other persons having claims ormay demands property to which in the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights atagainst Death a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under s.

732.2211, Florida Statutes. decedent's estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE Act as described in ss. 732.216-732.228, Florida Statutes, applies, or may apply, unless All other of made the decedent andOF other persons having claims or demands against DATE OFcreditors THE FIRST PUBLICATION NOTICE. a written demand is by a creditor asTHIS specified under s. 732.2211, Florida Statutes. decedent's estate must their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA All other creditors of thefile decedent and other persons having claims or demands against DATE OF THE FIRST OF THIS STATUTES SECTION 733.702 BE FOREVER decedent's estate mustPUBLICATION file theirWILL claims with thisNOTICE. courtBARRED. WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE ALL CLAIMS FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED DATE OF THE NOT FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL THE BE FOREVER BARRED. TWOCLAIMS (2) YEARS ORFILED MORE AFTER DECEDENT'S DATE OFFORTH DEATH IN IS BARRED. ALL NOT WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FLORIDA NOTWITHSTANDING THE of TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED The date of SECTION first publication this notice is January 9, 2026.

STATUTES 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT'S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED Personal The date of first publication this notice isDECEDENT'S January 9, 2026.

Attorney for Personal TWO (2) YEARS OR MOREofAFTER THE DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. Representative: Representative: The date of first publication of this notice is January 9, 2026.

Personal Attorney for Personal Representative: Representative: Personal Attorney for Personal Representative:

Representative:

SAMANTHA SHEALY RAUBA, ESQ. Attorney SAMANTHA SHEALY59503 RAUBA, ESQ. Florida Bar Number: Attorney McGraw, Rauba & Mutarelli SAMANTHA SHEALY RAUBA, ESQ. Florida Number: 59503 P.O. BoxBar 4440 Attorney McGraw, Rauba & Mutarelli Ocala, FL 34478 Florida Bar Number: 59503 P.O. Box 4440 Telephone: (352) & 789-6520 McGraw, Rauba Mutarelli Ocala, FL 34478 Fax: (352) 789-6570 P.O. Box 4440 Telephone: (352) 789-6520 E-Mail: FL Samantha@LawMRM.com Ocala, 34478 Fax: (352) 789-6570 Secondary E-Mail: Gina@LawMRM. Telephone: (352) 789-6520 IN THE Samantha@LawMRM.com CIRCUIT COURT FOR MARION COUNTY, E-Mail: com Fax: (352) 789-6570 DIVISION FLORIDA PROBATE Secondary E-Mail: Gina@LawMRM. E-Mail: Samantha@LawMRM.com IN THE RE: ESTATE Notice IN CIRCUITOF COURT FOR Public MARION COUNTY, com Secondary E-Mail: Gina@LawMRM. PROBATE DIVISION FLORIDA IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MARION COUNTY, com IN RE: ESTATE OF FLORIDA DENNIS M.PROBATE SPANO DIVISION IN RE: ESTATE OF

THOMAS O. MALONE Personal THOMAS O. MALONE Representative Personal 485 Brockway Road THOMAS O. MALONE Representative Frankfort, Personal New York 485 Brockway Road 13340 Representative Frankfort, NewRoad York 485 Brockway 13340 Frankfort, New York 13340

On Nov. 19, between 7 and 8 p.m., File No. 25-CP-003140 Graff notified Balik, Payette and Bowers Division: Probate File No. 25-CP-003140 that they were under investigation along Deceased.

DENNIS M. SPANO File No. 25-CP-003140 with everyone else who worked the shift Division: Probate DENNIS M. SPANO Deceased. on Nov. 16 when the incident happened.

Division: Probate NOTICE TO CREDITORS Deceased.

Graff confirmed he did not tell them the The administration of the estateNOTICE of Dennis TO M.CREDITORS Spano, deceased, whose date of death was nature of the investigation and told them September 25, 2025, is pending in the Circuit Court for Marion County, Florida, Probate NOTICE TO CREDITORS they were not allowed to talk to anyone The administration of the estateisof110 Dennis M. Spano, deceased, whose34471. date ofThe death was Division, the address of which SE Watula Ave., Ocala, Florida names in the department except for senior staff September 25, of 2025, is pending the Circuit Court for Marion representative's County,date Florida, Probate and the personal and thedeceased, personal attorney The addresses administration of the estaterepresentative ofinDennis M. Spano, whose of death was Division, the25, address which is in 110 Watula Ave., Florida 34471.

TheProbate names are set forth below. and law enforcement.

September 2025, of is pending theSE Circuit Court forOcala, Marion County, Florida, and addresses thedecedent personal representative andAve., the personal representative's All creditors ofofthe and persons having claims or 34471. demands against Division, the address of which is 110other SE Watula Ocala, Florida Theattorney names The timeline of communication are forthestate below. decedent's on personal whom a copy of this notice required to representative's be served must attorney file their and set addresses of the representative andisthe personal among the various MCFR officials, All of court the decedent and other persons claims or AFTER demands against claims ON OR BEFORE THE LATERhaving OF 3 MONTHS THE TIME are creditors set with forththis below. decedent's estate ondecedent whom a copy of thisNOTICE notice isOR required to beAFTER served mustDATE file their OF THE FIRST OF THIS 30 DAYS THE OF however, remains murky.

All creditors of PUBLICATION the and other persons having claims or demands against claims withOF this ON BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME SERVICE A court COPY OFOR THIS NOTICE ON THEM. decedent's estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their Balik said Bowers called him on OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OFand THIS NOTICE OR 303 DAYS AFTER THETHE DATE OF All other creditors of the other persons having claims orAFTER demands against claims with this court ONdecedent OR BEFORE THE LATER OF MONTHS TIME SERVICE OF A PUBLICATION COPY NOTICE ON THEM. decedent's estate must OF file THIS their OF claims with this court 3 MONTHS AFTER the evening of Nov. 19 shortly before OF THE FIRST THIS NOTICE ORWITHIN 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATETHE OF All other of the decedent andOF other having claims or demands against DATE OFcreditors THE PUBLICATION THIS NOTICE. SERVICE OF AFIRST COPY OF THIS NOTICE ONpersons THEM. Graff notified them of the investigation. decedent's estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE The personal representative has no duty to discover whether any property held at the All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against “(Bowers) wanted to know if the cops DATE THE FIRST THIS time ofOF the decedent's death the OF decedent or theWITHIN decedent's surviving spouse is decedent's estate mustPUBLICATION file theirbyclaims with thisNOTICE. court 3 MONTHS AFTER THE personal representative has no duty to discover whether any property held at the property which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death were at (Station) 21 today,” Balik said. He The DATE OFtoTHE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. time ofdescribed the decedent's deathhas by no theduty decedent or thewhether decedent's surviving spouse is Act as in ss. 732.216-732.228, Florida Statutes, applies, may apply, unless The personal representative to discover any or property held at the told Bowers there had been no police at property to which the Florida of Community Property Rightsspouse at Death a written demand is made byUniform a by creditor as specified under s. 732.2211, Florida Statutes. time of the decedent's death theDisposition decedent or the decedent's surviving is the station.

Act as described in 732.216-732.228, Statutes, applies, or may apply, The written demand must beUniform filed withDisposition theFlorida clerk. of property to which thess.

Florida Community Property Rights atunless Death a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under s.

732.2211, Florida Statutes.

ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA Balik, however, had only been at Act as described in ss. 732.216-732.228, Florida Statutes, applies, or may apply, unless The written demand must be withBE the clerk.

STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BARRED. a written demand is made by filed a creditor asFOREVER specified under s. 732.2211, Florida Statutes.

Station 21 for part of the day due to an ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE SET FORTH IN FLORIDA NOTWITHSTANDING THEbeTIME SETPERIODS FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED The written demand must filed PERIODS with the TIME clerk.

STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL THE BE FOREVER BARRED. TWO (2) YEARS ORFILED MORE AFTER DECEDENT'S DATE OFFORTH DEATH IN IS BARRED. internet outage at his own station.

ALL CLAIMS NOT WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FLORIDA NOTWITHSTANDING THE of TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED The date of SECTION first publication this notice is January 9, 2025.

STATUTES 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. Payette claims he fulfilled his duty TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT'S OF DEATH IS BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTHDATE ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED by reporting to Balkin on Nov. 19 Personal The date of first publication ofAFTER this notice isDECEDENT'S January 9, 2025.

Attorney for Personal Representative: TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE THE DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. what he knew, which was second-hand The date of first publication of this noticeRepresentative: is January 9, 2025.

Attorney for Personal Representative: Personal information that there was an incident Personal Attorney for Personal Representative: Representative: being investigated.

Representative: During Balik’s interview, Graff asked Kimberly K. Muenter Joseph Bendon about a “group text” that happened on Attorney 958 Cambridge Ct. Kimberly K. Number: Muenter 0078340 Joseph Bendon Florida Bar The Villages, Florida Nov. 19 hours before he notified the Attorney 958 Cambridge MortellaroK.Law 32162 Kimberly Muenter Joseph Bendon Ct. supervisors of the investigation. Balik Florida Number:Avenue, 0078340 The Florida 4102 W.Bar Linebaugh Suite Attorney 958 Villages, Cambridge Ct. Mortellaro 32162 100 said, “I don’t even know if he was in the Florida BarLaw Number: 0078340 The Villages, Florida 4102 W.FL Linebaugh Tampa, 33624 Avenue, Suite Mortellaro Law 32162 group chat.”

100 Telephone: (813) 367-1500 4102 W. Linebaugh Avenue, Suite In response to a request by the Tampa, FL 33624 Fax: (813) 367-1501 100 Telephone: (813) 367-1500 E-Mail: kmuenter@mortellarolaw.com “Gazette” to view the group text, Graff Tampa, FL 33624 Fax: (813) 367-1501 Secondary E-Mail: kkmuenter@gmail.

Telephone: (813) 367-1500 replied that he did not have it.

E-Mail: kmuenter@mortellarolaw.com com Fax: (813) 367-1501 Graff refused to provide the “Gazette” Secondary E-Mail: kkmuenter@gmail.

E-Mail: kmuenter@mortellarolaw.com com Secondary E-Mail: kkmuenter@gmail. with details of the timeline of when any com arrived. been here, this was learned of the supervisors of Station 21 who were enforcement behavior that I’ve just seen subsequently terminated learned of the throughout the fire department incident, responding instead with, “It in the entire time. I started here doesn’t matter when they learned of it.” at 19, and it’s what I grew up in.

The investigation into the It’s how I was treated. It’s how Firefighter Michael Horton, who has Nov. 16 incident is shedding I’ve always seen others treated.” been with MCFR for two years, refused light on other troubling In response to a “Gazette” to answer questions from MCSO. He behaviors at MCFR. request for details about how did admit later to MCFR that he had Station 21, the busiest fire violence at fire stations is usually witnessed the hazing event. He remains station in Marion County, has handled, MCFR leadership employed by MCFR. had its share of struggles. The scoffed at the notion that it Two firefighters told detectives they prior captain had been moved to has happened historically and did not participate in the attack but that a new station just a few months refused to elaborate on how it’s they, too, witnessed the incident. All before the Nov. 16 incident for been handled. However, the three were dismissed by the county based poor performance related in “Gazette” will be making more on their statements to law enforcement. part to a faulty communication public records requests and They are John Tweedy, a 22-year veteran style cited by Balik. will be publishing follow up and Tyler Touchton, who has served for Kaylee Bradley, one of reporting on our findings. four years. the firefighters arrested for None of the people Tweedy said during his recorded participating in the attack, interviewed by MCSO accused termination meeting he told the alleged told investigators that the Payette, Balik or Bowers of assailants to stop the attack but did not EMT who was allegedly participating in or condoning physically intercede. Union representatives assaulted on Nov. 16 “was what happened at Station 21 on at the hearing expressed concern that the there when Tate Trauthwein Nov. 16. county would have wanted him to get into was waterboarded” just a week Bowers and Payette only a physical altercation. prior. Trauthwein, who has also acknowledged hearing and Quintin Gaines, a nine-year been charged in the attack, told seeing the usual verbal banter veteran, chose resignation in lieu of authorities, “fire service-wise, at between crew members. Bowers termination. Gaines stated he witnessed least from what I’ve seen, that’s confirmed that “shit-talking [is] the crew members “wrestling” and not like a crazy thing to happen.” going on in the fire department. “rolling around on the ground” with the The firefighters who did I mean, that’s normal shit.” victim while he was sitting nearby using not participate in the Nov. 16 Graff, citing concerns that his phone. He characterized this behavior incident but observed it without providing additional information as “nothing that didn’t seem like out of intervening said that this could be used against them while the norm” and “typical stuff” for the fire behavior was “normal.” navigating the grievances that station. Gaines claimed he went to bed Gaines, who was recently had been filed by the captain and around 9 p.m. or 9:30 p.m. and did not honored at the county’s Medal lieutenant, refused to provide witness the escalation to waterboarding Day, told Graff and Tart in his answers to the “Gazette” about or the use of a belt. He stated he had recorded termination meeting, how the agency conducted its “no idea… the severity of it” until law “In the last over nine years I’ve investigation.

INCONSISTENT CONSEQUENCES

A CULTURE OF “NORMALIZED” MISCONDUCT

A4

January 9 - 15, 2026 | OCALA GAZETTE

Florida tourism inches up: Canadians stay away

ADVENTHEALTH OCALA WELCOMES FIRST BABY OF 2026

During the first nine months of 2025, domestic travel was up 0.1 %, overseas travel increased 4.5 % and Canadian travel was down 15.5 %.

By Jim Turner The News Service of Florida

F

lorida posted a slight increase in tourism during the third quarter of 2025 from a year earlier, even as Canadians continued to back off on travel to the U.S. Visit Florida estimated 34.339 million people traveled to the state between the start of July and end of September, up from 34.239 million during the same period in 2024, according to figures posted Dec. 31 on the state tourism marketing agency’s website.

“New data just released from @VisitFlorida shows tourism in Florida for Q3 2025 exceeded Q3 2024,” Visit Florida President and CEO Bryan Griffin posted on X. “2024 was a record-breaking year for Florida, & tourism saved each of Florida’s households an estimated $2,000 in taxes that (year). We’re looking forward to a strong 2026. Happy New Year!”

The 2025 total was the most for a third quarter — generally considered one of the slower periods for Florida — since 2022, when the marketing agency was hyper-focused on drawing people from other states because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

People from other states accounted for 31.448 million visitors during the 2025 third quarter, up from 31.373 million during the third quarter of 2024.

According to “Travel and Tour World” magazine, Miami, Orlando, Fort Lauderdale, Tampa and the Florida Keys are among the top national destinations, drawing more domestic travelers through “luxury, family-friendly attractions and year-round appeal.”

Meanwhile, 2.343 million overseas travelers visited Florida during the quarter, up from 2.27 million in 2024. This year was the best third quarter for overseas visitors since 2019, the year before the pandemic, when an estimated 2.5 million overseas travelers made their way to Florida.

Florida, however, continued to struggle to attract

Photo courtesy fdot.gov

Canadian visitors amid tensions between the U.S. and Canada. Visit Florida estimated the state had 507,000 Canadian visitors during the quarter, down from 597,000 in the third quarter of 2024. The total is also the lowest for any quarter since the fourth quarter of 2021, when just 275,000 Canadians made their way to Florida.

Before the pandemic the third quarter high for Canadians was 703,000 visitors in 2019.

During the first nine months of 2025, Florida totaled 109.782 million visitors, 0.1 percent more than in the same period of 2024. Domestic travel was up 0.1 percent, overseas travel increased 4.5 percent, while Canadian travel was down 15.5 percent.

Canadians have been canceling vacations in the U.S. because of President Donald Trump’s rhetoric and tariffs aimed toward their country and it didn’t appear the trend was changing as the fourth quarter started.

Statistic Canada, the nation’s statistical office, said last week that U.S. residents traveling to Canada in October was up 3 percent from a year earlier, yet Canadian residents crossing the border was down 26.3 percent year over year. Meanwhile, Canada saw overseas visitors increase 11.7 percent in the same month-to-month comparison, with Canadians traveling overseas up 9.1 percent.

Gov. Ron DeSantis has recommended legislators maintain funding at $80 million for Visit Florida in the 2026-2027 fiscal year, which will start July 1. Lawmakers will consider the request during the legislative session that will start Jan. 13.

Staff report

I

ssac Cassella was born at 6:42 a.m. on Jan. 1 at AdventHealth Ocala hospital.

Issac weighed in at 6

pounds, 5 ounces and measured 20 inches in length, the news release noted.

His parents, Michael and Brianna Cassella, shared that Issac is the family’s third boy.

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A5

January 9 - 15, 2026 | OCALA GAZETTE

MLK events in Ocala There are several activities from Jan. 10-19 to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy.

TRAIN DERAILS ON NORTHERN FLORIDA RAILROAD LINE IN OCALA; NO INJURIES REPORTED

Members of the NAACP Marion County Youth Council march with hundreds of other people during the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. March on Silver Springs Boulevard in Ocala on Jan. 15, 2024. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette file photo]

Staff report

T

he Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemorative Commission, Inc. will again host a number of events in recognition of the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. This year’s activities have a theme of “Mission Possible II – Uniting the Nation; Building a Future.”

• Jan. 10: Food Drive, 9 a.m., 2nd Bethlehem Association NW 4th Ave. Ocala; contact Ire Bethea at (352) 208-0819 or Rev. Eric Cummings at (352) 804-6871 • Jan. 17: Prayer Breakfast, 9 a.m., Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place,1821 NW 21st Ave. Ocala; contact Loretta Jenkins at (352) 351-0824 or Paula Leahmon at (352)426-8028 • Jan. 17: Wreath Ceremony, noon, Martin Luther King Jr. Park 500 SW MLK Jr. Ave., Ocala; contact Cassandra Boston at (352) 209-2973

• Jan. 17: Youth Day, 1 p.m., Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place, 1821 NW 21st. Ave. Ocala; contact Dwanette Dilworth at (352) 207-6036 or Trellis Hagin at (386) 451-1973 • Jan 18: Ecumenical Service, 6 p.m., New St. John Missionary Baptist Church, 2251 NW 2nd St., Ocala • Jan. 19: MLK March, 8 a.m. lineup in downtown Ocala, march steps off at 9 a.m. and goes to Webb Field at the Martin Luther King Recreation Complex, 1501 W. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala; transportation will be available at 7 a.m. from the racquetball court at the complex; contact Ire Bethea at (352) 208-0819 • Jan 19: Day in the Park, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Webb Field; for activities/ vendors, contact Dwanette Dilworth at (352) 207-6036, for stage entertainment, contact TeSha Jackson at (352) 426-0861

A train derailment blocks the railroad crossing in the 1300 block of North Magnolia Avenue in Ocala on Jan. 5, 2026. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette]

Staff report

A

train derailment on the Northern Florida Railroad line late Monday afternoon, Jan. 5, did not result in injuries or require a hazardous materials cleanup, officials said.

The incident occurred near the intersection of the rail line and 1130 N. Magnolia Avenue, where it appeared two tanker cars derailed.

The derailment is the latest in a series of incidents on the same rail corridor. In July 2025, at least five train cars derailed around 11 a.m. near the 2200 block of Southeast 14th Avenue, behind the Cypress side apartment complex. No injuries were reported in that incident or in a separate derailment on June 19, 2025 when at least four cars carrying rock derailed near Evergreen Cemetery, disrupting traffic on Northwest 10th Street.

The rail line, which runs from Lowell to Candler and cuts through multiple residential neighborhoods in Ocala, is operated by Northern Florida Railroad.

In past incidents, officials did not immediately release details on the cause of the derailments or the materials being transported. The railroad operator does not respond to requests for comment.

Safety concerns related to the corridor have been raised publicly. During a Sept. 17, 2024, Marion County Commission hearing, residents and local officials opposed increased rail traffic tied to a proposed manufacturing facility that would ship materials by rail that they claimed was not maintained in good working order. Officials from the City of Ocala and the Marion County School Board supported an alternative proposal to convert the corridor into a multi-use trail, an idea rejected by CSX and Northern Florida Railroad representatives.

Public Notice

January 20, 2026 4:00 P.M. (or, as soon thereafter as possible) City Hall City Council Chambers (2nd Floor) 110 SE Watula Avenue

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING OCALA CITY COUNCIL AND NOTICE OF INTENT TO CONSIDER A CONCURRENCY DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT [WEST OAK] (Pursuant to Sections 163.3220 - 163.3243, Florida Statutes)

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The Ocala City Council will hold a first public hearing on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, to consider a Concurrency Development Agreement to be entered into pursuant to Sections 163.3220 through 163.3243, inclusive, Florida Statutes, between the City of Ocala (City) and West Oak Developers LLC, project CDA25-0001. The public hearing will start at 4:00 PM or as soon thereafter as possible and will be held at the Ocala City Hall - City Council Chambers (2nd Floor), 110 SE Watula Avenue, Ocala, Florida. This is the first of two public hearings regarding this Concurrency Development Agreement. The second and final public hearing is scheduled with the Ocala City Council for Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at 4:00 pm or soon thereafter at the same location. Interested parties may appear at the meetings and be heard regarding their opinion of the proposed Agreement.

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The entire property is approximately 198.80 acres located south of NW 35th Street, east of NW 27th Avenue, north of NW 21st Street, and west of the Florida Northern Railroad Right-of-Way. A detailed legal description of the property is on file with the Growth Management Department of the City, which is located at 201 SE 3rd Street, 2nd Floor, Ocala, Florida. The location of the property is further shown on the following map:

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In November 2025, the Owner made an application to the City to propose a Concurrency Development Agreement.

The agreement addresses certain transportation facility capacity, modification to subject facilities, and proportionate share payment to be made by the Owner to the City to mitigate the impact on public transportation facilities generated by the proposed development of the Property.

A copy of the proposed Concurrency Development Agreement may be obtained at the City of Ocala Growth Management Department at 201 SE 3rd Street, 2nd Floor, Ocala, Florida; telephone (352) 629-8404; between the hours of 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday. If reasonable accommodations are needed for you to participate in this meeting, please contact the City of Ocala Growth Management Department at (352) 629-8404 forty-eight (48) hours in advance of the hearing, so arrangements can be made.

A copy of transcripts from an accredited institution must be submitted with the application for positions requiring a degree.

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A6

January 9 - 15, 2026 | OCALA GAZETTE

A life well lived Mary Sue Rich is remembered for her love and kindness, public service and opening doors for others.

By Susan Smiley-Height susan@magnoliamediaco.com

T

he celebration of life for Mary Sue Rich on Jan. 3 was a glorious home-going.

As the sanctuary at Central Christian Church in northeast Ocala filled with guests, a combo of musicians and a choir filled the air with, at first, quiet melodies and hymns of praise.

Rich, who distinguished herself through 24 years of civic service as an Ocala City Councilwoman, the first Black female ever elected to the panel, lie in regal repose.

The floral arrangements were lush and abundant.

After a processional of close friends and family members made their way to seats, after paying last respects, several speakers ascended the stage.

At one point, a highly rousing version of “I’ll Fly Away” had the crowd on its feet, clapping and swaying in time.

The order of service included remarks from Dan Kuhn, the church’s executive pastor; an invocation by Rev. Dr. Chris Burney, from Greater St. Mark Primitive Baptist Church in Tallahassee; and scriptural readings from the old and New Testament by Rev. Jeffrey Dove of St. James AME Church in Orange Park and Rev. Octavius Smith of the Greater Grant Memorial AME Church in Jacksonville.

Rich was born in Ocala, where she was lovingly raised by adoptive parents. She was married to Franklin R. Rich for 52 years, until he died in 2011.

She passed away in Ocala on Dec. 18 at the age of 85, surrounded by family members.

Mary Sue Rich earned a degree in criminal justice from the University of Central Florida and worked for the Florida Department of Corrections for 27 years. She was instrumental in starting 1st Step Inc. and the Racial Harmony Task Force. She received several distinguished service awards and was involved in numerous civic and professional organizations. On Jan. 10, 2023, the city of Ocala unveiled the Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place, at 1821 NW 21st Ave., named in honor of her and community advocate Ruth Reed.

While Rich was known for a life filled with accomplishments, nothing meant more to her than family. She and her husband had four children, nine grandchildren and seven greatgrandchildren. On Saturday, their granddaughter, Jasmine Brown, spoke to those gathered.

“For Mary Sue Rich. Today we stand in love and gratitude for a woman whose name was strength, whose heart was service and whose life was a blessing to me. Mary Sue, an

amazing woman in every sense of the word. A mother who gave endlessly, a grandmother whose love felt home, steady, warm and always present. She taught us without preaching, loved us without limits and showed us what it meant to give more than you take. Her hands were rarely still. They worked. They helped.

Not just for her family, but for the entire city she cared for deeply,” Brown said in a softly measured cadence.

“Ocala knew her heart. It felt her dedication, her compassion and her pride. She gave her time, her energy and her voice to make her community stronger, kinder, better, because that was simply who she was. She believed in showing up and doing the work and leaving places better than she found them. And she did it again, and again, and again.

To us, she was love in its purist form. She gave advice when we needed guidance, comfort when we needed peace and laughter when we needed light. Though we say goodbye today, her legacy does not leave us. It lives in the family she raised, in the values she passed down and, in the city forever touched by her care. Rest now Mammy. Your work here was meaningful. Your love was powerful in your life beautifully well lived,” Brown continued.

Numerous city and county officials, such as Ocala Mayor Ben Marciano and Police Chief Mike Balken, were seated in one area of the sanctuary. In leading off a series of speakers sharing reflections, Ocala City Councilman Ire Bethea spoke of Rich’s tenure, noting that at 24 years in her seat, she was the longest serving council person in the city’s history.

“She was very well respected by all,” Bethea said, which generated a rousing round of applause.

“She had the tenacity of a pitbull, but she was a very kind individual. She worked very hard for her community, for her city and for her state. Mrs. Rich was a history maker and a trail blazer,” he stated.

Retired judge Sandra Champ, who attended St. Paul African Methodist Episcopal Church with Rich, said Rich was not just a member, “she was a leader in the administration and upbuilding of our church.”

“As Robert Frost expressed, she also took the road less traveled, and that made all the difference,” Champ said.

“Mary Sue was a counselor to those who would receive her counseling. I was one of those who did, both in my personal and professional life of 30 years on the bench. She was truly a friend and a counselor to me. She etched her legacy into the very fabric of our church. She was, as Maya Angelou echoes, a phenomenal, a phenomenal woman. Goodnight, Mary Sue Rich. Rest in the arms of our savior,” Champ offered.

Mary Sue Rich poses on the Ocala downtown square. [Meagan Gumpert, MAVEN Photo + Film/Ocala Style file photo]

Mary Sue Rich smiles during the ribbon cutting ceremony for the Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place in Ocala on Jan. 10, 2023. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette file photo]

The Rev. Eric Cummings, vice-chair of the Marion County School Board, spoke next.

“The Honorable Mary Sue Rich was a true trailblazer. She had a vision for Ocala, called One Ocala,” he said, and asked all the local, regional and state officials in attendance to stand. As they rose, he said, sweeping his arm in their direction, “This is One Ocala. This is Mary Sue Rich.

This is what she worked hard for.”

“As one of those elected officials, I came to love me some Mrs. Rich,” Cummings continued.

“Three things I loved about Mrs. Rich were her poise, her presence and her purpose. She walked in a way that preached without a pulpit. She was refined without being removed, confident without being cold and firm without being fearful. She did not shrink in rooms that were not built with her in mind. She stood tall in places where her presence made history uncomfortable. It was not just her posture; it was purposeful composure. It was the calm courage of a woman who knew who she was and why she was where she was,” he shared.

“She was intelligent, fearless, unfiltered, but always firm in her commitment to do what was right. She understood that being first is not about being famous, but it’s about being faithful. And she didn’t just hold the seat; she honored the seat. She didn’t just lead; she lifted. Her presence opened doors and then she stood there long enough that others, like me, could walk through those doors,” Cummings said, which again engendered a round of applause.

“Mary Sue Rich did not serve for seasons; she served for decades. And even in retirement,

Mary Sue Rich at her retirement party on Jan. 30, 2020, at Hilton Ocala. [Isabelle Ramirez/Ocala Style file photo]

she refused to retire. She kept working, she kept advocating, she kept believing. She believed in inclusion when it was inconvenient. She stood for justice when it wasn’t trendy. She did the right thing when nobody was watching, and that’s what made her watch-worthy to me,” he added.

“The Honorable Mary Sue Rich was a beautiful woman with a beautiful spirt and a bold personality. She didn’t just leave memories, she left measurements. She didn’t just leave stories, she left standards.

She didn’t just leave history, she left a foundation, and because she stood, we can stand. Because she spoke, we can speak. Because she served, we can serve — stronger, smarter and surer. Her life was not a footnote; it was a headline,” Cummings noted.

Among the speakers were Rich’s brother, Earl Darisaw, from New York, who talked about their early life together and urged the family to take care of each other going forward. Son-in-law Darryl McCray spoke of Rich and his marriage of 34 years to her daughter Vivian. He recalled how Rich would send care packages of food and tapes of television shows when he and his wife were stationed abroad on military duty.

Franklin Rich Jr., Mary Sue’s son, also spoke about how she would send him, or deliver in person, care packages when he was playing professional sports in Minnesota for many years.

He also recalled how, while playing football for Vanguard High School in Ocala, he made one memorable play of sprinting 85 yards for a game-winning touchdown.

“She was running with me,” he said with a smile. “When I came out from under the pile, hers was one of the first faces I saw.

He said his mother was tough, but very nurturing.

“She was very encouraging and she always challenged and motivated,” he offered.

He said he always had to keep his grades up in order to participate in his beloved sports of football and basketball. He said his home in Ocala was “festive” and that all his friends hung out there.

A few years after his father died, Franklin Jr. moved back to Florida.

“And that’s the best gift of God to me, to spend with last years in Ocala has really, really blessed me,” he noted.

“She always told us to do the right thing for the right reason,” he continued. “She was always so fair. She was so honest. She always wanted the best for me and our family.”

In the memorial booklet offered to attendees, the family wrote to those who had offered love, support and kindness: “Your compassion has brought us comfort and strength and reminded us that we are not alone. We are truly grateful for each act of love shown to our family. May God bless each of you for keeping us lifted in prayer.”

Following the eulogy by Rev. Dr. Sha’leda Mirra, of St. Paul AME Church, and a formal recessional, with members of the Ocala Police Department as pallbearers, Mary Sue Rich was laid to rest at Faith Memorial Gardens in northwest Ocala.

“Well done good and faithful servant,” noted the memorial program.

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January 9 - 15, 2026 | OCALA GAZETTE

Olympic Winter Games Continued from page A1

Brittany Bowe’s mother, Debbie Bowe, left, and her sister, Brooke, right, cheer for her as she competes in the 1500 meters event. [Courtesy Debbie Bowe FB]

Brittany Bowe competes in the 1500 meters event during the U.S. Olympics long track speedskating team trials on Jan. 3, 2026. [Courtesy Debbie Bowe FB]

Erin Jackson competes in the 500 meters event during the U.S. Olympics long track speedskating team trials. [Courtesy Erin Jackson FB]

Brittany Bowe poses with fans on Jan. 3, 2026. [Courtesy Debbie Bowe FB]

Erin Jackson [Courtesy Team USA]

When she is not skating, Jackson is working on multiple associate degrees from Salt Lake City Community, in kinesiology and business, after completing one in computer science Jackson began inline skating after her mom, Rita, had a chance encounter with famed inline skating coach Renee Hildebrand. Jackson would join Hildebrand’s team, including future Team USA teammates Brittany Bowe and Joey Mantia.

At 17, Jackson would be a junior inline champion in the 500-meter track event and competed in inline speedskating world championships and roller derby for Team USA ahead of the 2018 world cup before taking up long track speedskating.

Just months after transitioning to the ice full-time, Jackson made her Olympic debut at the Olympic Winter Games Pyeongchang 2018 in the 500m, finishing 24th. Less than four years later, she was the top-ranked skater in the 500m discipline heading the U.S. Olympic Speedskating Trials. She finished third in the 500m at the 2022 U.S. Olympic Trials - Speedskating in Milwaukee after slipping during the race, so she missed out on the two available qualification berths.

However, her teammate and long-time friend, Bowe, who won the event at the U.S. Trials, ceded her place to Jackson, claiming she had a greater chance of winning gold in the event at the Olympic Winter Games Beijing 2022.

At the Beijing Games, Jackson made history as the first Black woman to win gold in an individual event at the Winter Olympics.

Later that year, she returned to inline skating

Brittany Bowe. [Courtesy Team USA]

Track.

A recent article on the Belga News Agency website states: “Belgium will head to the Winter Games in Milan-Cortina with six short track speed skaters, its strongest delegation to date. The country will be represented in every individual distance (500m, 1,000m and 1,500m) as well as the mixed 2,000m relay and the men’s 5,000m relay.

SPEAKING OUT ON SOCIAL MEDIA

Ocala’s Winter Olympics speed skating medalists Erin Jackson and Joey Mantia are cheered by hundreds of people as they arrive at the downtown square after the Ocala Parade of Champions on March 26, 2022. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette file photo]

and became world champion for the first time ever at the 2022 ISU World Championships in the one lap sprint event. Jackson would also win gold the following year at the PanAm Games in the 500m, her signature event.

JOEY MANTIA

Mantia, 39, through inline speed skating, has won 28 World Championship titles, three Pan American Games titles, 15 World Cup Gold medals, 12 Junior World titles and more than 90 national titles, according to his Team USA bio.

His Instagram page notes that he currently is the head coach for Team Belgium Short

On Jan. 5, Debbie Bowe posted on her Facebook page these comments: “Yes, we are blessed to leave the 2026 Olympic Trials with #4, but just as important we leave with genuine gratitude. Gratitude for soooooooo much to sooooooo many! Thanks to Brittany’s US speedskating coaches, trainers, and support staff! They are beyond amazing!

Thanks to anybody and everybody that had anything to do with the Pettit Center Oval venue operations. It was fabulous. The soldout crowds were treated with hospitality from start to finish and the efficiency of service was TOP of the podium! Thanks to all that made the trip to Milwaukee to cheer in the stands.

Your commitment and love are priceless!

JOY! Thanks to ALL of you that cheered and prayed from afar as your genuine support was felt. We take nothing for granted and are very humbled! God bless the 2026 USA Winter Olympians and every single skater that competed and their families!”

Brittany Bowe once again is offering Team Bowelieve T-shirts for sale. On Jan. 5, she posted this note on her Facebook page: “As I step forward from my final race in Milwaukee

and continue this journey toward my 4th Olympic Games, I’m overwhelmed with gratitude for the people who have continued to support me. BOWElieve isn’t just a word — it’s a symbol. A reminder that belief matters.

That community matters. That none of this is done alone. If you’ve ever supported, believed, cheered, or felt connected to my journey — you are Team Bowelieve. I’d be honored to have you wear it, represent it, and cheer loud as we set our sights on Italy and the 2026 Olympic Games. Thank you for believing in me. Thank you for being here. Thank you for being part of Team Bowelieve.”

Find the T-shirts at bowelieve.myshopify. com In a Dec. 10 post on Instagram, Jackson made this statement: “Grateful for the people who believed in me before I hit my stride, this journey has been nothing short of magic.”

In another post, she is quoted as saying: “I’m motivated by myself and wanting to be better than I was yesterday.”

To learn more, go to teamusa.com, usspeedskating.org and olympics.com Editor’s note: The “Gazette” has previously written about and photographed Bowe, Jackson and former teammate Joey Mantia, for example in these links: ocalagazette.com/ocala-proud ocalagazette.com/gallery-winter-olympicsspeedskaters-celebrated-in-ocala ocalagazette.com/gallery-ocala-winterolympians-honored-at-howard-academy ocalagazette.com/gallery-ocala-parade-ofwinter-olympics-champions

Master the Possibilities to highlight history

America 250 programming in February will offer visiting speakers and special events Special to the Gazette

M

aster the Possibilities (MTP) invites the community to explore history, culture, innovation and the arts during its February lineup of visiting speakers and special events.

Many of these one-day programs are part of MTP’s America 250: Exploring 250 Years of America theme, which recognizes the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary through engaging lifelong learning experiences.

The first visiting speaker event is scheduled for 10 a.m. Feb. 2, with “Revolutionary Communications: American Independence and the Postal Service,” a free remote presentation by Steve Kochersperger of the U.S. Postal Service, hosted in Live Oak Hall. The program explores how the early postal service played a vital role in securing American independence and highlights the courageous individuals who risked their lives to keep communication flowing.

On Feb. 12, at 1 p.m., history will come to life at the Circle Square Cultural Center with “Abe and Mary Lincoln,” presented

by William and Sue Wills. This compelling portrayal examines Abraham Lincoln’s leadership during the Civil War and Mary Lincoln’s personal struggles, offering a balanced look at one of America’s most intriguing first couples. Admission is $8 for members and $13 for the general public.

A lighter historical take follows on Feb. 19, at 10:30 a.m., with “It Came from Florida: Florida’s Best B-Movies” in Live Oak Hall.

Cathy Salustri will present a fun exploration of Florida’s role in cult-classic science fiction films. Pricing is $13 for members and $18 for the general public.

Innovation and perseverance are the focus of “Fascinated by Flight: How the Wright Brothers Changed the World” on March 3 at 2 p.m., in Live Oak Hall. Remote presenter Rick Kistner will explore how two self-taught brothers revolutionized transportation and

Shutterstock image

helped shape the modern world. The cost is $8 for members and $13 for the general public.

Two additional remote programs will further highlight America’s founding era.

On Feb. 17, at 2 p.m., participants can join “A Virtual Tour of the Signers’ Hall at the Constitutional Convention,” guided by a museum educator from the National Constitution Center. On Feb. 23, at 10 a.m., award-winning historian Edward G. Lengel will present “George Washington: Man of Peace,” offering insight into Washington’s leadership as both a military commander and

a statesman. Both programs are hosted in Live Oak Hall and cost $8 for members and $13 for the general public.

The month will conclude with a look at the local creative scene during “State of the Arts in Marion County” at 10 a.m. Feb. 26, presented by Jaye Baillie, executive director of the Marion Cultural Alliance, in Live Oak Hall. This session will explore how art is becoming more accessible, interactive and intergenerational throughout the community.

Admission is $3 for members and $8 for the general public.

“These programs reflect Master the Possibilities’ commitment to meaningful lifelong learning,” said Tim Thompson, who oversees operations, technology and marketing initiatives for Master the Possibilities. “Through our America 250 theme, participants are encouraged to better understand the people, ideas and creativity that continue to shape our nation.”

For more information or to register, visit masterthepossibilities.org. Registration also is available by calling the Master the Possibilities main office from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, at (352) 861-9751.

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January 9 - 15, 2026 | OCALA GAZETTE

Legislative Continued from page A1 revenue from the tax - also referred to as tourist tax, bed tax or resort tax - growing to approximately $7 million, she argued these funds should be available for local improvements that benefit both residents and visitors, such as needed upgrades to Shocker Park in Ocala.

“The Tourist Development Tax is a 4% charge on the revenue from rentals of six months or less.

This tax applies to the short-term rental of any living quarters or accommodations in any hotel, apartment hotel, motel, resort motel, apartment, apartment motel, rooming house, tourist camp, trailer camp, condominium, room or home.

The tourist development tax shall be charged by the person receiving the consideration for the lease or rental, and it shall be collected from the lessee, tenant, or customer at the time of payment,” according to the Marion County Tax Collector’s Office website.

According to the county’s park website, Shocker Park hosts girls’ fast-pitch softball tournaments and “contributes hundreds of thousands of dollars each year in economic impact to our community.”

“We love our visitors... but quite frankly, it is a strain on our infrastructure, and we need to be able to recoup some of those dollars to put back into our community,” Bryant stated.

Zalak urged caution, noting that opening the statute for debate could lead to the state redirecting those funds elsewhere rather than granting local flexibility. As previously reported, local control of tourism tax revenue has contributed $4.3 million for signs over Interstate 75 in Ocala as well as $275,000 in last year’s budget to produce and promote on social media videos featuring Zalak giving “insider” advice for those visiting Marion County.

Florida statute governing how the revenue can be used allows for acquiring, constructing, extending, enlarging, remodeling, repairs, improvements, maintenance, operations, or promotion of one or more “publicly owned and operated convention centers, sports stadiums, sports arenas, coliseums, or auditoriums within the boundaries of the county or subcounty special taxing district in which the tax is levied,” so it is unclear what state impediment exists for the county to use the TDC funds for the benefit of county parks.

The “Gazette” asked the county attorney and Bryant for clarification but has not received a response.

Cretul noted that bills such as SB 454 and SB 976 have been filed regarding TDC uses, though the political landscape remains complex. For example, in October, state officials discussed using tourism tax dollars as an option to offset the cost of 911 infrastructure since they do not collect enough fees on phone bills to sustain it.

BILLS MARION COUNTY IS WATCHING IN THE 2026 SESSION

The following legislative items have been identified as top priorities or bills of interest for Marion County: SB 208: Land Use and Development Regulations • Lawmaker: Sen. Stan McClain • Analysis Status: Public-facing analysis available

• Analysis Summary: • Compatibility: The bill redefines “compatibility” to specify that land uses do not need to be identical to be compatible. It establishes that all residential land uses are deemed compatible if they fall within the same residential land use category in the comprehensive plan.

• Infill development: The bill mandates administrative approval (without public hearings) for “infill residential development” on parcels of 100 acres or less surrounded by residential use, provided they meet density standards.

• Design preemption: The bill prevents local regulations on building design elements (e.g., paint, style) from being applied to Planned Unit Developments unless adopted in the original approval documents.

SB 48: Housing • Lawmaker: Sen. Don Gaetz • Analysis Status: Public-facing analysis available • Analysis Summary: • Tenant screening: The bill authorizes landlords to accept “reusable tenant screening reports” prepared by a consumer reporting agency within the previous 30 days.

This allows tenants to pay for one background check and use it for multiple applications, though landlords are not required to accept them.

IHMC Lecture Series Presented by:

Mark Emery Our Amazing Wild Backyard

THURSDAY JAN. 22, 2026 RECEPTION Begins at 5:30 p.m.

TALK Begins at 6 p.m.

Seating is limited RSVP to ihmc-20260122.eventbrite.com or call 850.202.4415

CO-HOSTED BY:

www.ihmc.us 15 S.E. Osceola Avenue Downtown Ocala

Many of you know that Ocala has been a film destination for years. Mark Emery has cataloged 40 films here, spending years focusing on learning how to film North-Central Florida’s wildlife. Historically, films made here were just scenes in films such as “Live and Let Die,” “Creature from the Black Lagoon,” or “The Yearling.” Today, series including the BBC’s “Planet Earth” documentary, and networks such as NBC, PBS Nature, National Geographic Television and Disney Plus are highlighting Ocala’s own back yard. Many of the films and documentaries were here because of the amazing underwater clarity of Silver Springs, which have an international reputation for beauty and biodiversity. Now we are finding that this fast-growing county is compressing the wildlife population that draws filmmakers, birders, fishermen, hunters, and hikers.

In this lecture, Emery will share rarely seen scenes captured after hours both above and below the surface of the water. Prepare to be amazed at what is going on in your own backyard!

Mark Emery grew up in Florida. He worked at Silver Springs driving glass-bottom boats, wrestling alligators, and milking rattlesnakes for Ross Allen’s Reptile Institute.

Later he went to work for Jordan Klein Film and Video.

Jordan Klein Sr. invented underwater cinematography.

Mark and his wife, Mary, traveled to 35 countries producing, directing, and shooting scores of television shows and commercials about fish and wildlife for National Geographic Television, BBC, Nature on PBS, The Discovery Channel, and Disney Plus. He has won two Emmys for cinematography, a Chris Award, and has been named Wildlife Communicator of the Year. His photography has been published in National Geographic Magazine, Newsweek, The London Times, Outside Magazine, Outdoor Life, Florida Sportsman, Backpacker Magazine, Alaska Magazine, books, calendars, and commercials. Mark and Mary spend their summers filming and guiding film crews and fishermen in Alaska.

Season Sponsors:

A Friend of IHMC

Thank you to

• Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs): The bill requires all counties and municipalities to adopt an ordinance by Dec. 1 allowing ADUs in all single-family residential zones. Local governments cannot require the owner to live in the primary dwelling.

• Military housing: The bill expands density bonuses for land donated to local governments to include housing for military families receiving the basic allowance for housing.

CS/SB 380: Legal Notices • Lawmaker: Sen. Jay Trumbull • Analysis Status: Public-facing analysis available • Analysis Summary: • Website publication: The bill designates municipalities, clerks of court, and tax collectors as “special governmental agencies,” granting them the option to publish legal notices on their own official websites or a county website rather than in local newspapers.

• Cost requirement: To use the website option, the cost of publication must be less than the cost of publishing in a newspaper.

• Timeframes: Notices regarding the status of government activity must be published continuously for two weeks.

SB 948: Local Government Land Development Regulations (“Florida Starter Homes Act”)

• Lawmaker: Sen. Stan McClain • Analysis Status: Waiting for public analysis (bill text reviewed).

• Summary: This bill prohibits local governments from regulating lot sizes on residential property connected to public utilities to be greater than 1,200 square feet. It prohibits requiring setbacks larger than 10 feet (rear) or 20 feet (front). It also mandates administrative approval for “lot splits” (dividing a parcel into up to eight lots) within 20 business days.

HB 0027: Term Limits • Lawmaker: Rep. Jeff Holcomb • Analysis Status: Waiting for public analysis (bill text reviewed).

• Summary: This joint resolution proposes a constitutional amendment to limit county commissioners and school board members to 12 consecutive years in office.

A member who hits this limit cannot appear on the ballot again until four years after their last term expires.

SB 354: Blue Ribbon Projects • Lawmaker: Sen. Stan McClain • Analysis Status: Waiting for public analysis (bill text reviewed).

• Summary: This bill creates a category for “Blue Ribbon Projects” that must be at least 10,000 contiguous acres with 60% designated as reserve area. These projects must be administratively approved by local governments without the need for comprehensive plan amendments or rezoning.

Development rights would be vested for at least 50 years.

HB 927: Local Land Planning and Development • Lawmaker: Rep. Judson Sapp See Legislative, page A9

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January 9 - 15, 2026 | OCALA GAZETTE

Legislative Continued from page A8 • Analysis Status: Waiting for public analysis (bill text reviewed).

• Summary: This bill requires local governments to adopt a “land planning and development program” by Oct. 1 that would allow private providers to perform application reviews. If a local government fails to adopt such a program, applicants may select a private provider from a registry to perform reviews, and the local government must accept the application. It also creates an expedited permitting process for residential subdivisions.

SB 548: Growth Management • Lawmaker: Sen. Stan McClain • Analysis Status: Waiting for public analysis (bill text reviewed).

• Summary: This bill requires impact fee studies to use a planbased methodology. It defines “extraordinary circumstances” (required to increase impact fees beyond statutory limits) as specific conditions like rapid population growth or failing transportation standards.

Increasing fees under these circumstances requires a twothirds vote of the governing body.

SB 718: Water Management • Lawmaker: Sen. Stan McClain • Analysis Status: Waiting for public analysis (bill text reviewed).

• Summary: This bill preempts the regulation of water quality, water quantity, pollution control, pollutant discharge, and wetlands to the state. It prohibits local governments from adopting laws or policies regarding these issues and

repeals the statute regarding land management review teams.

SB 686: Agricultural Enclaves • Lawmaker: Sen. Stan McClain • Analysis Status: Waiting for public analysis (bill text reviewed).

• Summary: This bill allows owners of certain agricultural parcels to apply for “agricultural enclave” certification. If approved, the owner may submit development plans for singlefamily housing consistent with adjacent densities, and the development must be treated as a conforming use.

SB 218: Land Use Regulations (Impacted Local Governments) • Lawmaker: Sen. Don Gaetz • Analysis Status: Waiting for public analysis (Bill text reviewed).

• Summary: This bill prohibits “impacted local governments” (counties with federal disaster declarations for Hurricanes Debby, Helene, or Milton) from adopting construction moratoriums or more restrictive comprehensive plan amendments until October 2027. Violations are considered void from the beginning and retroactive to Aug. 1, 2024.

SB 840: Land Use Regulations (Disaster Recovery) • Lawmaker: Sen. Nick DiCeglie • Analysis Status: Waiting for public analysis (bill text reviewed).

• Summary: This bill applies to local governments within 50 miles of a hurricane track. It prohibits enforcing moratoriums that delay repair or reconstruction for one year after landfall. It generally prevents requiring repairs to comply with more restrictive amendments effective after the hurricane.

OG listening sessions: Or how I lost $37.38 trying to find common ground

By Jennifer Hunt Murty jennifer@ocalagazette.com

O

ne of the things I’ve learned after five years of running a local newspaper is this: information and ideas exchanged inside a vacuum are a great way to miss the story entirely.

If people generally listen only to people who already agree with them, why would they need a newsroom for information?

So, in late 2024, I started something informal that I jokingly call “OG listening sessions.” No microphones. No agendas. Just breakfast, coffee and a willingness to sit across from someone who may see the world very differently than I do.

At the time, Donald Trump had just been elected president and I was sorting through my own feelings about it. We had reported extensively on locals involved in the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection and it has always been clear, at least to me, that the violence at the U.S. Capitol was unredeemable. But I’m not judge and jury — I’m a journalist. And journalists are supposed to seek understanding, not just affirmation of their positions.

That’s how I found myself at breakfast with local retired

corporate executive turned philanthropic leader Stan Hanson.

If you know Hanson from Marion County’s Political Forum, you know he’s a frequent pot stirrer — heavy on the rhetoric, light on the chill. But he also showed up. Regularly.

And despite our disagreements (plural), those breakfasts became a place where ideas were exchanged instead of thrown.

There were some funny moments.

At one point, Hanson advised me — with great confidence — to invest in Trump bitcoin.

I knew very, very, very little about bitcoin, but in the spirit of common ground, I bought one Trump bitcoin on Jan. 20, 2025, for $43.

One year later, it is worth $5.62.

I still own it, mostly so I can continue reminding Hanson that he has given me exactly one piece of financial advice and it could have been catastrophic.

Despite our differences — and yes, despite the occasional annoyance I worry he feels when I don’t agree with him, we keep meeting. We check in on each other’s well-being.

We’ve had more than one conversation about using our voices responsibly and being more careful with words, so we don’t further fracture a community that already feels stretched thin.

Fast-forward to the morning of Dec. 31, 2025. We’re back at breakfast, talking about New Year’s resolutions.

“I want to be less controversial,” Hanson said.

I paused, then asked, “Do you

mean less divisive? Or maybe more intentional about bringing people together?”

“Yes,” he replied. “All of that.”

That moment stuck with me.

I asked Hanson if I could share these conversations publicly and he agreed there was value in it.

So, here’s my proposition to the community: I want to hear what you care about. What confuses you. What frustrates you. What you think we’re missing. And just like Hanson did, I invite you to ask me questions, too. Trust works both ways and transparency has to be part of the process if I’m going to ask for yours.

Going forward, I’ll be hosting “OG listening sessions” around town for whoever wants to have a conversation. Sometimes it’ll just be me. Other times, members of our team will join.

Here are the first two: • Tuesday, Jan. 13, starting at 5 p.m.

Midtown Station — bar area (with me) • Thursday, Jan. 15, at 10 a.m.

Sipping Grounds — with me and Susan Smiley-Height Both locations are at 235 NE Watula Ave., Ocala, with plenty of parking nearby.

If you want to talk to us, but need a different time, email me at jennifer@ocalagazette.com. We’ll do our best to accommodate your schedule because you’re doing us a favor by connecting with us to share your thoughts.

When we understand what’s on the minds of our community, we can do what local journalism is supposed to do: report the news our community needs and values.

I hope to see you.

A10

January 9 - 15, 2026 | OCALA GAZETTE

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January 9 - 15, 2026 | OCALA GAZETTE

People, Places and Things Mark Emery to lecture at IHMC The Jan. 22 talk will delve into “Our Amazing Wild Backyard.”

Mullet in the Silver River.

Mark and Mary Emery on the job.

By Susan Smiley-Height susan@magnoliamediaco.com

E

mmy Award-winning Ocala cinematographer, photographer and composer Mark Emery has worked in more than 35 countries. He and his wife, Mary, spend half of each year in Alaska, the other half at home in Ocala.

Mark came to Ocala in 1959 as a toddler. In his early life, he kept an eye out for poachers at the expansive Drake ranch. He once lived in the woods alone for nine months, after which he milked rattlesnakes and wrestled alligators at the famed Ross Allen Reptile Institute and also piloted glassbottom boats at the Silver Springs attraction.

His work has appeared on many televisions channels and in print media such as National Geographic, PBS, the Discovery Channel, ESPN, the Smithsonian Channel, “The (London) Times,” “Newsweek,” the BBC and more. He has composed music and scored soundtracks for TV shows, films and commercials around the world.

He has filmed the world’s most aggressive crocodile, ferocious grizzly bears and many other species of reptiles, fish, fowl and four-footed mammals in North and South America, Europe and Africa.

But he believes that his own backyard — the whole of Ocala and Marion County — holds an incredible treasure trove of amazing wildlife and beautiful scenery.

On Jan. 22, Mark will be the guest speaker for the Institute for Human & Machine Cognition’s evening lecture series. The talk is titled “Our Amazing Wild Backyard.”

The “Gazette” did a phone interview with Mark on Jan. 5 to learn about what he will discuss during the free presentation.

“I’ve been to about 35 countries and Mary has been with me to a lot of them. And you come back and you go, ‘Our backyard is pretty spectacular.’ I can go to Paynes Prairie and see all the alligators I want. I can find bison and wild horses and deer and turkeys,” he said.

He said he will talk about those kinds of public places, but also about private lands.

“Cattle ranches are great assets here for wildlife. A lot of people don’t know that. We’ll go into a little of that because there’s a wonderful ‘poo factor’ to it. They leave little piles everywhere and then there will be sandhill cranes and other critters that feed off that and pick up grain

that hasn’t been digested, and it turns into an incredible factory for critters,” he said with a laugh.

“We’ve been to Venezuela and we’ve seen caiman at low water and tons of birds and different species, and they are exotic to us, but if you come here and you see a pileated woodpecker and a cardinal, you’re going to say those are both pretty cool. One’s bright red and one’s just got a big ole head and he’s knocking it into a tree. I’m going to try to build up what we have right here,” he added.

He mentioned the beauty of the hundreds of freshwater springs in the area as well as the many horse farms in the region, and how they attract wildlife.

“We are putting out some of the greatest horses in the world right here because you have lime rock right near the top of the soil and that produces a gravy of better minerals for all these animals,” he noted.

Mark said that big ranches in Marion County, such as the Drake property, which now has 5,800 acres in a conservation easement that can never be developed, and properties such as a 16,000+ acre piece owned by John Rudnianyn, can be real havens for wildlife such as deer, black bears, migrating birds, wild turkeys and more.

He spoke about one 40,000-acre parcel of four contiguous ranches in the area that is home to Florida panthers.

“I think they’ve been there 50 years or so. We need to not populate those areas and sell them out.

Supposedly, panthers are only in South Florida, but they are not, they are up here in places like that, where they have that much room to feed. They are eating wild hogs, which are tearing up the ground. Those are the jobs those big predators do. They are phantoms, so you hardly ever get to see one,” he noted.

Mark said he most recently has been working with a National Geographic team to photograph and film manatees in the Silver River.

“The density of wildlife is much greater in Florida than in Alaska.

Up there, they get dense around one food source (salmon) and that lasts a couple of months, but there is a long time there where things are pretty scattered as far as wildlife.

But right here, any day, you go to the Silver River and you’re going to see tons of birds and wildlife.

Yesterday we saw wild turkeys, deer and tons of manatees, and lots of species of fish and turtles. So, you’re looking at that and thinking okay,

A wood duck.

Alaska is great in the summer when it’s 100 degrees in Ocala, but you come back here and there’s a lot more to see day in and day out. It’s pretty spectacular,” he offered.

And one of the things that helps him create spectacular images in the area is what he refers to as the “God rays.”

“When you get underwater, you’ll see little particles in the water and it’s back-lit, and you’re on the other side of it and looking back towards the sun,” he explained about the phenomenon.

“I’ve noticed when people come here form Hollywood, they are stunned. I’m always looking for that particular kind of accent if I can find it; big columns of light coming down.”

When he is in Ocala, Mark is part of the Silver Springs Professional Dive Team, whose members don scuba gear and clean up the bottoms of the glass-bottom boats and the left-over movie statues in the springhead of Silver Springs. He said that is one way he can be part of local conservation efforts, which he will speak about during the lecture.

“You don’t have to change the world; you don’t have to do a list of things. Find one or two things that you can do. In our world, we’re gone half the year, so we don’t sign up for things we won’t be there for. But the thing we do every month is clean the bottom of the glass-bottom boats at Silver Springs. We have a group of about 10 divers. We all make little films about it, too. You’ll see us working with manatees right behind us or doing all kinds of things when we’re down there.

It’s some pretty prestigious divers.

Silver Springs has several different clubs that monitor the springs and provide services,” he noted.

Wild horses.

A buck with two doe.

Manatee in the Silver River.

A grey fox in a tree.

A Florida panther.

A raccoon.

Alligator in cattails.

Each IHMC lecture beings with a reception at 5:30 p.m.

The venue is located at 15 SE Osceola Ave., in downtown Ocala. The events are free to attend but seating is limited. To register, go to eventbrite.com/e/ mark-emery-ocala-eveninglecture-tickets-1976746519051 Photos courtesy Mark Emery

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January 9 - 15, 2026 | OCALA GAZETTE

Get in on the action

Upcoming Ocala Civic Theatre classes include improv and acting for the camera.

Improv class at the Ocala Civic Theatre. [Submitted photo]

Staff report

T

he Academy at Ocala Civic Theatre offers after-school classes, weekday classes for homeschooled students and weekend workshops year-round.

There are classes for children (ages 6-12), teens (ages 13-17) and adults (ages 18+). To give focused attention to every student, there is a maximum of 15 students in most classes, with two qualified adults in the room at all times.

Classes are offered at the Ocala Civic Theatre, also known as The Civic, at 4337 E. Silver Springs Blvd. and the

Acting for the camera workshop at The Civic. [Submitted photo]

Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place, at 1821 NW 21st Ave., Ocala.

Examples of winter classes include: PIVOT! IMPROV – INTRO. CLASS New to improv? This class is perfect for beginners. Put the fun in the fundamentals of improvisation as you learn in a supportive, collaborative environment. Through warm-ups, engaging exercises and short-form games, you’ll discover the core principles of improvisation. The class will focus on a specific skill each week, including character work, scene creation, physicality, active listening and establishing a strong base reality. Boost

your creativity and confidence, whether onstage or in everyday life, the news release noted.

This class is for ages 18 and older.

It will be offered from 7:30 to 9 p.m.

Fridays from Jan. 16 to March 20 (no class Feb. 20 or March 13; showcase March 27) at The Civic. The instructor is Amy Beshears. Tuition is $125 per person.

ACTING FOR THE CAMERA Learn to think of acting with the camera rather than for the camera, as the camera might be the most intimate scene partner an actor ever has. The relationship between the actor and the camera is

critical. This class will hone on-camera acting skills, focusing on what works best for each actor. Students will work from a cold-read base and discuss text, space and lighting, according to the news release.

This class is for ages 16 and older.

It will be held from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Jan. 17 at The Civic. Materials will be provided. The instructor is Greg Thompson. Tuition is $75 per person.

Interested learners can register online, over the phone, or in person at the box office.

To learn more, go to ocalacivictheatre. com or call (352) 236-2274.

Online theater company launches sixth season Unboxed Productions was born during the pandemic and continues to grow in audience, actors and recognition.

By Susan Smiley-Height susan@magnoliamediaco.com

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ig things are happening with the Unboxed Productions live online theater company.

Beginning Jan. 17, the team will launch its sixth season with a “Celebrate UP Online Cabaret Variety Show” fundraiser and also make its first ever Unboxy Awards presentations. On Jan. 24, open auditions will be held for two productions. In April, the company’s original play “Almost All About Eva” will debut at the Fertile Ground Play Festival in Portland, Oregon.

Unboxed Productions was founded by playwright Kim Sandstrom from Belleview and Jan Thomas of Indianapolis, Indiana, during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Since then, almost all online theaters that were started have closed. Unboxed Productions not only remains open, we are growing in audience, actors and recognition. We have expanded to include four to five shows a year, added online monologue and scene study classes and have helped local groups such as GWFC of Ocala,” Sandstrom noted in the news release.

The GFWC of Ocala is a long-time women’s community nonprofit that raises money for other nonprofits locally, such as Honor Guard, Project Hope, the Rock, The Lost and Found Club, Vets Helping Vets and is led by president Deb Ivey.

Unboxed Productions wrote and will be producing this year’s annual murder mystery fundraiser in April, Sandstrom added.

Kristine Handgen will be a vocalist for the “Celebrate UP Online Cabaret Variety Show” on Jan. 17. [Submitted photo]

The production company’s board of directors includes professionals from Florida, California, Michigan, Louisiana, New Jersey and Texas. Local board member Bruce Seaman edits recordings of the online live shows to be film-like for UP’s YouTube channel.

The “Celebrate UP’s Cabaret Variety Show” will be emceed by Seaman and board member Diana Grogg.

Seaman is the author of “To

Succeed Where Others Failed: The Untold Story of the Marshall Plantation Raid,” and has been nominated for an Unboxy Award for best actor for Socrates in “Plato’s Apology” and Earnest in “The Importance of Being Earnest.”

Grogg has been nominated for an Unboxy Award for best actress as Lady Bracknell in “The Importance of Being Earnest.”

The “Celebrate UP’s Cabaret Variety Show” will begin at 7

p.m. Eastern Standard Time on Saturday, Jan. 17. One of the vocalists will be Kristine Handgen, from Mexico.

“Because our acts come from all over the United States and even Mexico, and our audience is from all over the U.S. and United Kingdom, paying attention to time zones is very important. One of our singers lives in Mexico and our co-host and director of Celebrate UP is from California,” Thomas said in the release.

“Our annual Ed Sullivanstyle variety show is a fun, easy going online event and we have a silent auction this year, featuring an original painting donated by actress Karen Black’s daughter. And we will be hosting the first ever Unboxy Awards, honoring our talent and tech over the last two years,” Sandstrom shared.

Live auction items will include a Reader’s Book Basket with six books, a candle and snacks; a Diane Bay original painting; a new Coach purse; a basket of six vintage evening bags valued at $200; a handmade wooden bird house; and many giveaways for audience members.

In April, Sandstrom will travel to Portland for the Fertile Ground Play Festival to see her original play, “Almost All About Eva” be performed.

“Almost All About Eva” was selected out of more than 60 applicants to be included in the festival.

“Fertile Ground is an annual original play marathon and the plays are juried and adjudicated on a scale. ‘Almost All About Eva’ met every metric for inclusion. Only 20 plays make the cut,” Sandstrom proudly shared.

Traveling to Portland with her to see the play at the Hillsboro Artists Regional Theater will be Sandstrom’s cousin Sabrina Johnson, from Davenport, Florida, who plays the role of Eva. Local Portland actors will be cast in other roles. Unboxed Productions board member and technical director Ty Nunez will codirect.

The sixth Unboxed Productions season will include Moliere’s “The Imaginary Invalid” in late March and “Almost All About Eva” on April 11, which will be streamed live from Portland.

The rest of the season tentatively includes “The Lady With All the Answers” in late May, J.M. Barrie’s “The Admirable Crichton” in late July and a play yet to be decided on in October.

Open auditions for the Portland production of “Almost All About Eva,” as well as “The Imaginary Invalid” will be online only on Jan. 24, for two hours, starting at 4 p.m. EST and 1 p.m. Pacific Standard Time. All actors will receive a gift/stipend. Interested actors should email a photo and bio to info@unboxedproductions.org.

Tickets for regular season shows are $15. The suggested donation for the “Celebrate UP Online Cabaret Variety Show Fundraiser” is $20.

Links are now open at unboxedproductions.org to secure tickets and also to vote for Unboxy Awards. To learn more about the group, cast members and events, visit youtube.com/@unboxed. productions and facebook.com/ groups/742753242937232

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January 9 - 15, 2026 | OCALA GAZETTE

Exercise guidelines for adults Marion County has abundant resources for enjoying physical activities.

Staff report

A

physically active lifestyle has been linked to a host of health benefits, including a reduced risk for various chronic diseases and a longer, healthier life. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services notes that moving more and sitting less benefits people regardless of their age, sex, race, ethnicity or even current fitness levels.

Whether they’re adapting to a more physically active lifestyle, already physically active or somewhere in between, individuals can benefit from recognizing the latest physical activity guidelines from the department.

ADULTS

The DHHS notes that substantial health benefits can be gained when adults do between 150 and 300 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week or between 75 and 150 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity each week.

The DHHS notes that aerobic

The Santos Trailhead and campground park in southeast Marion County offers 80 miles of bike trails. [Dave Miller, MAVEN Photo + Film/ Ocala Style file photo]

activity, which can include walking, running, cycling and hiking, among other activities, should be spread out over the course of the week. In addition

to aerobic activity, the DHHS urges adults to do musclestrengthening activities of moderate or greater intensity on two or more days per week.

OLDER ADULTS The DHHS recommends older adults adhere to the same guidelines as younger adults but

take some additional steps as well. Older adults are urged to incorporate multi-component physical activity that includes balance training into their fitness regimens. The department also advises older adults to determine their level of effort for physical activity relative to their fitness level. It’s also recommended that older adults with chronic conditions discuss their ability to engage safely in regular physical activity with their physicians.

Vigorous and even moderateintensity exercise may not be possible for some older adults with existing conditions.

Routine physical activity can help adults and older adults live longer, healthier lives. Adults of all ages are urged to speak with their physicians about safe ways to become more physically active.

In Marion County, there are numerous outlets and venues for physical activity, such as state parks, the Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway, the Santos Trails and many others.

To learn more, go to ocalamarion.com/things-to-do

The upside of volunteering Giving back can be good for your physical and mental health.

Tom Dewey, left, manager of United Way of Marion County’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, talks with Ronald Fulton, who has been a tax preparation volunteer for 11 years, at the Marion County Literacy Council in Ocala on Oct. 30, 2025. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette file photo]

Staff report

V

olunteering makes an immeasurable difference in the lives of volunteers and those they help. Many people may be surprised to learn how positive volunteering can be for volunteers. Indeed, studies show that volunteering leads to better physical and mental health, among other benefits.

According to an article published by the American Heart Association and Jeffrey Burr, a professor of gerontology at the University of Massachusetts Boston, compared to non-volunteers, volunteers have less depression, less anxiety, higher self-esteem, greater happiness and a greater sense of meaning in life. Burr and the AHA note the health benefits of volunteering occur among all ages, and a deep look at how volunteer efforts are good for personal health shows just how profound giving back can be.

Reduces stress: The Mayo Clinic reports that volunteering reduces stress and increases positive, relaxed feelings by releasing dopamine. When volunteers spend time in service to others, they report feeling a sense of meaning and appreciation, both of which can have stress-reducing effects.

Lowers depression: Research has shown that volunteering leads to lower rates of depression and anxiety, particularly among people 65 and older.

Provides a sense of purpose: AmeriCorps reports volunteering can provide a sense of purpose in older adults, which can help replace feelings

of inadequacy due to loss of major role identities, such as wage earner or parent.

This sense of purpose can improve life satisfaction and happiness.

Reduces blood pressure: According to researchers at Carnegie Mellon University, older adults who volunteer for at least 200 hours annually decrease their risk of high blood pressure by 40 percent. This also may lower risk of heart disease and stroke.

Eliminates feelings of isolation: Volunteers working together link people to others and their communities. This can help people overcome feelings of isolation, which may come from being new to a community or being a senior and having a smaller social circle.

Increases happiness: Those who volunteer regularly tend to be happier and more empathetic towards others.

Volunteering also instils a sense of pride that can make people happier.

Keeps the mind active: Individuals who volunteer can improve their cognitive health. That’s because volunteering engages a person in new skills, requires them to solve problems and keeps them mentally stimulated through various activities.

Improves physical health: Some volunteer activities will involve physical tasks that can contribute to improved physical health because they constitute moderate exercise.

Volunteering offers a number of benefits that can improve both physical and mental health for those donating their time to help others.

B4

January 9 - 15, 2026 | OCALA GAZETTE

Robert Collins and Cindy Wamsley attended the Free First Saturday events at the Appleton Museum of Art in Ocala on Jan. 3, 2026.

SOCIAL SCENE

People look over Pinecone Quilts by Betty Ford-Smith in the “Under the Cover of Knowledge” exhibit.

Free First Saturday at the Appleton

By Susan Smiley-Height susan@magnoliamediaco.com

O

n Jan. 3, the parking lot at the College of Central Florida Appleton Museum of Art was overf lowing with cars, and for good reason. It was the first Free First Saturday of the new year and visitors were eager to view exhibits and collections, check out some food trucks and even make some art themselves.

Guests on Saturday freely explored the upstairs and downstairs “wings” of the museum, one of which featured the annual “A Dickens Christmas: The Urban Family’s Holiday Exhibition.”

The first Saturday of each month offers free admission to Ocala’s world-class museum, which is a showcase for permanent collections as well as special exhibitions, such as the current “Under the Cover of Knowledge: Betty Ford-Smith’s Pinecone Quilts.”

During the next Free First Saturday, on Feb. 7, the museum

will show two documentaries in connection to the quilt exhibit.

At 11 a.m., “Quiltmakers of Gee’s Bend” will explore the lives, inspirations and history of the artists and follow them on a poignant and sometimes comical bus journey to see their quilts exhibited at The Milwaukee Art Museum.

At 2 p.m., “The Quilting Women of Gee’s Bend” will highlight the celebrated quilts made by a community of African American women in rural Alabama.

The films also will be free to attend and no reservations are needed.

As with every Free First Saturday, food trucks will be on-site throughout the day, and guests can make their own creations in the Artspace. The museum is located at 4333 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala.

For more information, call (352) 291-4455 or go to appletonmuseum.org

Nancy and Dennis Davis.

Rose and Steven Joyce.

A Christmas tree is shown with artwork and paintings, including “All Souls’ Day at the Camposanto, Pisa” 1872, right, an oil on canvas by artist Pierre Auguste Cot, French, 1837-1883.

Sherry Higgins and Tina Crispi.

Photos by Bruce Ackerman Ocala Gazette Paul Arthur, Christina Leaman and Dave Leaman.

People look at paintings during Free First Saturday.

Kristen Mink, top left, her son, Waylon, 7, top center, and daughter, Everly, 1, bottom left, pose for a photo with Noel Cone, top right, and her daughter, Autumn, 2, bottom right.

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January 9 - 15, 2026 | OCALA GAZETTE

Visit These New Home Models Discover a variety of beautifully designed and quality-built homes to suit every need

CALESA TOWNSHIP

855-927-4104

Sable – Inventory Home Available Now! 7276 SW 58th Place Road, Ocala, FL 34474 2,420 a/c sq. ft. single family home priced at $422,725.

Featuring 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 2 car garage, great room, living room, game room, breakfast area, laundry suite, and patio.

Sable - Inventory Home Available Now! 5689 SW 72nd Court, Ocala, FL 34474 2,420 a/c sq. ft. single family home priced at $428,535.

Featuring 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 2 car garage, great room, living room, game room, breakfast area, laundry suite, and patio.

Garnet Model – 6416 SW 78th Court Ocala, FL 34474 1,921 a/c sq. ft. single family home starting at $355,990. Featuring 4 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2 car garage, great room, breakfast area, laundry suite, and patio.

Sable Model – 6428 SW 78th Court Ocala, FL 34474 2,420 a/c sq. ft. single family home starting at $372,990.

Featuring 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 2 car garage, great room, living room, game room, breakfast area, laundry suite, and patio.

Gardenia Model – 6440 SW 78th Court Ocala, FL 34474 2,671 a/c sq. ft. single family home starting at $429,990.

Featuring 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, 3 car tandem garage, great room, dining room, nest, laundry suite, and covered lanai.

DEL WEBB

352-453-8010 Stone Creek

Stellar Model - 9312 SW 60th Lane Road, Ocala, FL 34481 2,483+ a/c Sq. Ft. Single-family home starting at $431,990 featuring 3 bedrooms, 3-4 bathrooms, 2-car garage, versatile flex room, stainless steel appliances, and covered lanai.

Larkspur Model – 6464 SW 78th Court Ocala, FL 34474 3,089 a/c sq. ft. single family home starting at $449,990.

Featuring 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, 3 car tandem garage, great room, dining room, flex room, nest, laundry suite, and covered lanai.

Stardom Model - 9296 SW 60th Lane Road, Ocala, FL 34481 2,269+ a/c Sq. Ft. Single-family home starting at $416,990 featuring 2-3 bedrooms, 2.5-3.5 bathrooms, 2-3-car garage, quartz countertops, versatile flex room, and oversized covered lanai.

Marigold Model – 6476 SW 78th Court Ocala, FL 34474 3,374 a/c sq. ft. single family home starting at $465,990.

Featuring 5 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, 3 car tandem garage, great room, dining room, nest, loft, laundry suite, and covered lanai.

Prestige Model - 9294 SW 60th Lane Road, Ocala, FL 34481 2,080 a/c Sq. Ft. Single-family home starting at $369,990 featuring 2-3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, 2-car garage, Owner’s walk-in closet, quartz countertops, and covered lanai.

ON TOP OF THE WORLD

352-619-9645

Arlington - Inventory Home Available Now! 10276 SW 105th Court, Ocala, FL 34481 2,211 a/c sq. ft., single family home priced at $452,000 featuring 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, 3 car garage, great room, flex room, breakfast area, workshop, covered porch and lanai.

Mainstay Model - 9290 SW 60th Lane Road, Ocala, FL 34481 1,948+ a/c Sq. Ft. Single-family home starting at $363,990 featuring 2-3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2-car garage, luxury vinyl plank flooring, stainless steel appliances, and extended covered lanai.

Beatrix - Inventory Home Available Now! 10880 SW 101st Loop Ocala, FL 34481 2,142 a/c sq. ft. single family home priced at $391,000 featuring 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2 car garage plus golf cart space, living room, flex room, and laundry suite.

Sunflower Model - 8891 SW 75th Loop, Ocala, FL 34481 1,967 a/c sq. ft., single-family home starting at $334,990 featuring 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2 car garage, great room, breakfast nook, laundry suite, and covered lanai.

Wisteria Model - 8895 SW 75th Loop, Ocala, FL 34481 2,126 a/c sq. ft., single-family home starting at $348,990 featuring 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2 car garage, great room, laundry suite, and covered lanai.

Beaumont Model - 10458 SW 96th Loop, Ocala, FL 34481 2,202 a/c sq. ft., single-family home starting at $397,490 featuring 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2 car garage with workshop space, great room, breakfast area, flex room, laundry suite, and covered lanai.

Magnolia Model - 10446 SW 96th Loop, Ocala, FL 34481 2,493 a/c sq. ft., single-family home starting at $418,490 featuring 2 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 2 car garage with golf cart space, great room, breakfast area, flex room, den, laundry suite, and covered lanai.

Arlington Model - 9584 SW 82nd Street Road, Ocala, FL 34481 2,211 a/c sq. ft., single-family home starting at $464,490 featuring 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, 3 car garage, great room, breakfast area, workshop space, laundry suite, and a covered lanai.

Aberdeen Model - 9564 SW 82nd Street Road, Ocala, FL 34481 2,907 a/c sq. ft., single-family home starting at $501,490 featuring 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, 3 car garage, great room, 2nd master suite, breakfast area, flex room, laundry suite, and a covered lanai.

Compass Model - 9291 SW 60th Lane Road, Ocala, FL 34481 1,471 a/c Sq. Ft. Single-family home starting at $297,990 featuring 2-3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2-car garage, quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, and covered lanai.

PULTE HOMES Marion Ranch

Bloomfield Model - 8316 SW 46th Ave, Ocala, FL 34476 • 352-677-2262 2,503 a/c Sq. Ft. Single-family home starting at $391,990 featuring 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 3-car garage, quartz countertops, versatile flex room, and covered lanai.

Medina Model - 8322 SW 46th Ave, Ocala, FL 34476 • 352-677-2262 2,230 a/c Sq. Ft. Single-family home starting at $352,990 featuring 3-4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 2-car garage, quartz countertops, versatile flex room, and covered lanai.

Pioneer Ranch

Astoria Model - 6866 SW 90th Loop, Ocala, FL 34476 • 813-547-5335 2,223 a/c Sq. Ft. Single-family home starting at $357,990 featuring 3-4 bedrooms, 2.5-3 bathrooms, 3-car garage, quartz countertops, versatile flex room, and covered lanai.

Heston Model - 6862 SW 90th Loop, Ocala, FL 34476 • 813-547-5335 1,850 a/c Sq. Ft. Single-family home starting at $313,990 featuring 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2-car garage, quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, and covered lanai.

Daylen Model - 6858 SW 90th Loop, Ocala, FL 34476 • 813-547-5335 1,580 a/c Sq. Ft. Single-family home starting at $272,990 featuring 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2-car garage, quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, and covered lanai.

B6

January 9 - 15, 2026 | OCALA GAZETTE

LOCAL CALENDAR LISTINGS

Government JAN. 12, 19 AND 26

Marion County Development Review

Office of County Engineer, 412 SE 25th Ave., Building 1, Ocala 9am The committee meets each Monday to review and vote on waiver requests to the Land Development Code, major site plans and subdivision plans. See marion.fl.legistar.com/ calendar.aspx for agenda and minutes.

JAN. 20, FEB. 3 AND 17

Marion County Board of County Commissioners

McPherson Governmental Campus Auditorium, 601 SE 25th Ave., Ocala 9am The commission meets 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 The commission meets the first and third Tuesday of the month. Agendas, minutes and video available at belleviewfl.org/200/ agendas-minutes

JAN. 13 AND 27

Marion County School Board

1614 E Fort King St., Ocala 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

JAN. 14

Dunnellon City Council

Dunnellon City Hall, 20750 River Dr., Dunnellon 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

Arts JAN. 10

Reilly Noir Series: Nick DeCarlis Quartet Presents: Themes from Movies

NOMA Black Box, Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE Ninth St., Ocala 7:30pm Experience a unique blend of jazz standards and inventive “imaginary” originals from Nick DeCarlis’s retro-inspired album “Themes from Imaginary Movies.” Nick and his quartet bring classic film music to life, both real and made-up, inviting you to listen, imagine and decide which tunes came from actual movies and which sprang purely from creativity.

Learn more at reillyartscenter.com

JAN. 11

35th Annual Young Artist Competition: Honors Recital

Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE Ninth St., Ocala 3pm Special recital showcasing the finalists from the 35th annual Young Artist Competition.

These exceptional junior and senior musicians will perform their concerto selections live with a pianist as they compete for the chance to appear as soloists with the Ocala Symphony at “To Spring!” on March 21–22. Winners will be announced immediately following the performance. Learn more at reillyartscenter.com

JAN. 17

Community JAN. 8-FEB. 26

Free diabetes classes

Forest Public Library, 905 S Highway 314A, Ocklawaha 10am to noon The Marion County Hospital District is hosting a free, eight-week Diabetes Self-Management Series for those age 18 and older who are prediabetic, diabetic or who supports someone with diabetes. Participants will engage in the Diabetes Education Empowerment Program (DEEP) and gain knowledge and skills to better manage diabetes, including guidance on improving eating habits, increasing physical activity, monitoring body numbers and preventing complications associated with diabetes. For more information or to register, call (352) 619-4303 or email amp@mchdt.org.

JAN. 10

Friends of Freedom Public Library annual meeting

8601 SW 65th Ave. Road, Ocala 1pm The slate of officers for 2026 will be voted on

by Friends members. Guest speaker Sheldon Grant, branch library supervisor at the Marion Oaks Public Library and a certified Marion County Master Gardener, will present “Getting Ready for Spring Gardens.” The meeting is open to the public.

JAN. 10-19

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. events

Various locations and times The Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemorative Commission, Inc. will again host a number of events in recognition of the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. This year’s activities have a theme of “Mission Possible II – Uniting the Nation; Building a Future.”

• Jan. 10: Food Drive, 9 a.m., 2nd Bethlehem Association NW 4th Ave. Ocala; contact Ire Bethea at (352) 208-0819 or Rev. Eric Cummings at (352) 804-6871 • Jan. 17: Prayer Breakfast, 9 a.m., Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place,1821 NW 21st Ave. Ocala; contact Loretta Jenkins at (352) 351-0824 or Paula Leahmon at (352)426-8028 • Jan. 17: Wreath Ceremony, noon, Martin Luther King Jr. Park 500 SW MLK Jr. Ave., Ocala; contact Cassandra Boston at (352) 209-2973 • Jan. 17: Youth Day, 1 p.m., Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place, 1821 NW 21st. Ave. Ocala; contact Dwanette Dilworth at (352) 207-6036 or Trellis Hagin at (386) 451-1973 • Jan 18: Ecumenical Service, 6 p.m., New St. John Missionary Baptist Church, 2251 NW 2nd St., Ocala • Jan. 19: MLK March, 8 a.m. lineup in downtown Ocala, march steps off at 9 a.m. and goes to Webb Field at the Martin Luther King Recreation Complex, 1501 W. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala; transportation will be available at 7 a.m. from the racquetball court at the complex; contact Ire Bethea at (352) 208-0819 • Jan 19: Day in the Park, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Webb Field; for activities/vendors, contact Dwanette Dilworth at (352) 207-6036, for stage entertainment, contact TeSha Jackson at (352) 426-0861

JAN. 11

Sunday Makers Market

Heart of the Park, 516 NE Sanchez Ave., Ocala 10am-2pm Hosted by Ocala Main Street, a monthly openair market celebrating local makers, artists and creative small businesses. More than 60 vendors, live music and a kid’s craft area. Learn more at ocalamainstreet.org

THROUGH JAN. 13

5-Plus-1 Wellness Promo

The Joint Chiropractic, 2701 SW College Road, Ocala Hours vary For a short time only, you can buy five months of routine chiropractic care and get one month free. The offer includes up to four visits per month, no insurance needed, walk-ins welcome and affordable, flexible care for all lifestyles. Get details at thejoint.com/florida/ ocala/ocala-27108

JAN. 15

Strong People Living Well info session

One Health, 1714 SW 17th St., Ocala 2:30pm The Marion County Hospital District and One Health host a free information session for upcoming classes. Strong People Living Well is an evidence-based, healthy-living curriculum that aims to help adults reduce the risk of obesity and chronic diseases through fitness and nutrition education. This 12-week program has been shown to improve diet and nutrition, increase physical activity, support weight management and teach stress management techniques. The program will include free biometric screenings and produce courtesy of AdventHealth. For more information or to register, call (352) 619-4303 or email amp@mchdt.org.

JAN. 16

“Celebrate UP’s Cabaret Variety Show” Online

7 p.m. Eastern Standard Time

Ed Sullivan-style variety show, silent auction and Unboxy Awards. Live auction items include a Reader’s Book Basket with six books, a candle and snacks; Diane Bay original painting; new Coach purse; basket of six vintage evening bags valued at $200; handmade wooden bird house; and many giveaways for audience members. Suggested donation is $20.

Links are open at unboxedproductions.org to secure tickets and vote for Unboxy Awards.

JAN. 7 – MARCH 5

“Manifest” exhibition

CF Webber Gallery, 3001 S.W. College Road, Ocala Monday-Thursday, 10am-4pm The collaborative exhibition features works by two longtime friends and Georgia-based artists, Craig Hawkins and Matt Armstrong. The artists channel their shared southern upbringing into finding common ground to express their pursuit of a deeply personal faith, imagining how the supernatural may manifest. For more information, call (352) 854-2322, ext. 1664.

JAN. 16

Rumours ATL: A Fleetwood Mac Tribute

Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE Ninth St., Ocala 7:30pm Experience the magic of Fleetwood Mac brought to life with Rumours ATL. With stunning musicianship, rich harmonies and the iconic sound of classics like “Rhiannon” and “Go Your Own Way,” Rumours ATL captures the spirit, mystery and energy of the legendary group. Learn more at reillyartscenter.com

TAKE3 offers a fusion of styles and will perform Jan. 22 in Ocala. [Photo courtesy Reilly Arts Center]

JAN. 22

TAKE3

Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE Ninth St., Ocala 7:30pm This unique trio of violin, cello and piano brings together the power and energy of rock music with the sophistication and beauty of classical Bach.

Experience a fusion of styles that will leave you breathless and wanting more. With their virtuosic performances and electrifying stage presence, TAKE3 is a must-see show that will thrill audiences of all ages. Learn more at reillyartscenter.com

JAN. 24-25

Romantic America

Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE Ninth St., Ocala Jan. 24, 7:30pm; Jan. 25, 3pm Led by the Ocala Symphony’s Principal Guest Conductor Raymond Chobaz, the performance begins with Charles Tomlinson Griffes’ “The PleasureDome of Kubla-Khan,” a tone poem inspired by Coleridge’s poetry. Celebrated violinist Adelya Nartadjieva takes the stage for Samuel Barber’s Violin Concerto, Op. 14. The program concludes with Howard Hanson’s Symphony No. 2, “Romantic.” Get tickets at reillyartscenter.com

THROUGH JAN. 18

“The Human Pulse: Photographs by John Elliott”

Appleton Museum of Art, 4333 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala The exhibit features 42 black-and-white prints from the Ocala-based photographer’s ongoing series, “The Human Pulse,” shaped by his life and travels across 32 countries. Learn more at appletonmuseum.org

THROUGH FEB. 22

“Under the Cover of Knowledge: Betty Ford-Smith’s Pinecone Quilts”

Appleton Museum of Art, 4333 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala Ford-Smith’s quilts are striking, contemporary interpretations of the traditional pinecone quilt, a form rooted in African American quilting practices dating back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

To learn more, go to appletonmuseum.org

FEB. 7

JAN. 17

St. Paul and the Minneapolis Funk All Stars

Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE Ninth St., Ocala 7:30pm Join St. Paul, one of the Twin Cities’ finest musicians and a Prince protégé, for an unforgettable night of Minneapolis sound. From his breakout in Purple Rain and The Time to leading The Family on Prince’s Paisley Park label, St. Paul now brings together the powerhouse musicians behind the era’s biggest electro funk rock hits. Get tickets at reillyartscenter.com

Brick City Bluegrass Festival (early bird tix on sale now)

Citizens’ Circle, 151 SE Osceola Ave., Ocala 1-7pm The event will include performances by nationally recognized and local bluegrass artists, food trucks and beverage vendors. Bring lawn chairs or blankets.

Get details at ocalafl.gov/brickcitycluegrass

TLC Ribbon Cutting

Transitions Life Center, 3360 NW Gainesville Road, Ocala 10am The center will celebrate a 6,000-square-foot campus expansion. Guests are invited to enjoy refreshments, with an option of taking a guided tour of the new facility. To learn more, call (352) 877-8999 or visit tlcocala.org

JAN. 22

Marion County Braver Angels meeting

Marion County Public Library, 2720 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala 5:30pm Strengthen democracy through depolarization and courageous citizenship.

To learn more, visit braverangels.org or email dhoswald@gmail.com

Your Business Could Be Here!

JAN. 24-25

Ocala Camellia Show

Fort King Presbyterian Church, 13 NE 36th Ave., Ocala Jan. 24, 1-5pm and Jan. 25, noon-4pm Attendance is free. The Ocala Camellia Club will have plants for sale. Anyone can offer blossoms for judging and entries will be accepted from 7-10 a.m. Jan. 24. To learn more, go to fb.com/Ocala-CamelliaSociety-100719056688048/?fref=nf

Email marketing@ocalagazette.com for more information

B7

January 9 - 15, 2026 | OCALA GAZETTE

Sudoku is played on a grid of 9 x 9 spaces. Within the rows and columns are 9 “squares” (made up of 3 x 3 spaces). Each row, column and square (9 spaces each) needs to be filled out with the numbers 1-9, without repeating any numbers within the same row, column or square.

Week of January 9th thru January 15th 2026 ARIES

March 21-April 20

Minor obstacles are in your path, Aries. It’s easy to get frustrated right now. Once you clear the hurdles it will be smoother sailing before long. Remain patient.

You treasure family and friends, Taurus. This week calls for an important decision that could affect them all. It may be challenging, but you will make the right call.

The conditions are right for finishing an important task, Scorpio. You will be able to come up with wonderful ideas that have true staying power.

Pursue your options.

May 22-June 21

Gemini, you may have to reset your priorities, as new information has come to the surface. Prioritize responsibilities so major issues are taken care of first.

CANCER

June 22-July 22

Unavoidable situations may cross your path this week, Cancer. It is important that you stay the course.

Committing to tackling things head-on is the most productive approach.

LEO

July 23-August 23

It may be tempting to shirk your responsibilities right now, Leo. Resist that temptation. Keep your head down and keep on working. It will soon prove worth it.

VIRGO

August 24- September 22

Virgo, be confident and listen to your instincts, Libra. Do so before taking on any important tasks that might turn up in the days or weeks to come. A surprise might be around the corner.

ANSWERS TO PUZZLES ON PAGE B9

Your energy will remain high this week, Libra, enabling you to come up with some innovative ideas that have true staying power. Pursue your options.

SCORPIO

GEMINI

Down 1 Shade trees on the National Mall 2 Big party 3 Exhausted to the core 4 Fundraisers with tickets 5 Clean energy org.

6 Pre-K song subject 7 White part of citrus fruit 8 __ butterfly: one with a busy calendar 9 Give a weather report, essentially 10 Fond du __, Wisconsin 11 Lower leg joint 12 Mental flashes 13 Parliament conservative 19 Big sandwich 21 Not dark 25 Relaxed gait 27 Trademark in an arcade game name 28 Trials and tribulations 29 Leaf-gathering tool 30 Take to court 31 Barroom fight 35 Welcome sign at a cash-only market 36 Complain 37 Minor holdup 39 Refuse to obey 41 "Who, me?"

42 Saudi Arabia neighbor 45 Cottontails 47 Alphabet read with the fingers 50 Come together 51 "Thumbs down from me" 52 Ewe's mate 53 Taj __ 54 Pong Quest maker 56 Covertly includes on an email 58 Lyft rival 59 Spanish appetizer 61 Correct a verb tense, perhaps 62 Dreidels, e.g.

64 Knock sharply 65 Long. crosser

September 23October 23

TAURUS

April 21-May 21

Across 1 __ and flow 4 Gathers from the field 9 Braid 14 Language of Southeast Asia's only landlocked country 15 HS class for aspiring premeds, perhaps 16 Stranger, slangily 17 Bing's web portal 18 What sounds like a disk, but isn't a disk?

20 Cabinet part 22 Backed (away from) 23 Frito-__ snacks 24 Lean a bit 26 Gets up 28 What sounds like a cube, but isn't a cube?

32 Rowboat blade 33 Like limes 34 Squads 38 Squeaked (by) 40 Spanish "I love you" 43 England's largest all-boys boarding school 44 Passover meal 46 Uterus 48 Barnyard baby sound 49 What sounds like a circle, but isn't a circle?

53 Unhelpful RSVPs 55 Flatbread served with chana masala 56 Louisville Slugger product 57 Real gem 60 "All good on my end" 63 What sounds like a sphere, but isn't a sphere?

66 Wedding words 67 Diamond unit 68 Republic in the Himalayas 69 Duck sauce for egg rolls, e.g.

70 Minor mistakes 71 Speechify 72 UFO pilots

LIBRA

October 24November 22

SAGITTARIUS

November 23 -December 21

Sagittarius, you have been working hard lately and this may result in an overactive and tired mind. You should factor in a break so you can recharge your body and spirit.

CAPRICORN

December 22January 20

Focus on keeping your cool even if that proves difficult, Capricorn. Be the bigger person in all of your interactions. You have a strong ability to control of your emotions.

AQUARIUS

January 21-February 18

Aquarius, you may feel uneasy or worried for unknown reasons. Trust your gut in this instance and steer clear of trouble should it try to get in your way this week.

PISCES

February 19-March 20

Family tops your list of priorities right now, Pisces.

You are likely to spend considerable time with loved ones in the days to come. Relish in all the opportunities to connect.

B8

January 9 - 15, 2026 | OCALA GAZETTE Public Notice

Public Notice

Public Notice

Public Notice

IN THE COUNTY COURT FOR THE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE IN THE CIRCUIT FIFTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT COURT FOR FIFTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND IN AND FOR MARION COUNTY, MARION COUNTY, FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA. FLORIDA FLORIDA PROBATE IN RE: THE ESTATE OF CIVIL DIVISION File No. 2025CP003065 DIVISION MARY E. BACKA, a/k/a ELSIE BACKA, File No.: IN RE: ESTATE OF ON TOP OF THE Deceased.

25CP003147AX TERESA FLINK WORLD (CENTRAL) IN RE: ESTATE OF CASE NO: 2025-CP-3032 Division: Deceased.

OWNERS NOTICE TO CREDITORS Probate ASSOCIATION, INC., The name of the decedent, the designation Plaintiff, JOAN A. MACKENZIE Case No. 25vs. of the court in which the administration of Deceased.

CC-001813 this estate is pending, and the file number NOTICE TO KEITH SPILDE and NOTICE TO CREDITORS are indicated above. The address of the CREDITORS NORMA SPILDE, The administration of the estate of court is 110 N.W. 1st Avenue, Ocala, FL Defendants.

TERESA FLINK , deceased, whose date 34475. The names and addresses of the The administration of the estate of Joan / of death was October 7, 2024, is pending personal representative and the personal A. MacKenzie, deceased, whose date of NOTICE OF SALE death was October 14, 2025, is pending Notice is hereby given that pursuant to in the Circuit Court for Marion County, representative’s attorney are indicated in the Circuit Court for Marion County, Paragraph 5 of the Final Judgment of Florida, Probate Division, the address below.

Florida, Probate Division, the address of Foreclosure entered in the case pending of which is 110 NW 1st Ave, Ocala, FL If you have been served with a copy of this which is 110 NW 1st Ave #1, Ocala, FL in the County Court of the Fifth Judicial 34475. The names and addresses of the notice and you have any claim or demand 34471. The names and addresses of the Circuit in and for Marion County, Florida, personal representative and the personal against the decedent’s estate, even if personal representative and the personal Case No. 25-CC-001813 the Clerk of representative’s attorney are set forth that claim is unmatured, contingent or representative's attorney are set forth the Court, Marion County, shall sell the below. unliquidated, you must file your claim with below. property situated in said county, described All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands the court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER All creditors of the decedent and other as: persons having claims or demands Lot 6, ON TOP OF THE WORLD - against decedent’s estate on whom a OF A DATE THAT IS 3 MONTHS AFTER against decedent's estate on whom a AVALON PHASE 4, according to plat copy of this notice is required to be served THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION copy of this notice is required to be served thereof as recorded in Plat Book 12, must file their claims with this court ON OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER must file their claims with this court ON Page 196-199, of the Public Records of OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS YOU RECEIVE A COPY OF THIS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST NOTICE. OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS Marion County, Florida.

AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PARCEL ID NO.: 3530-0340006 PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 All other creditors of the decedent DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE and other persons who have claims or PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 (“Property”) DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE Property Address:10067 Southwest OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. demands against the decedent’s estate, All other creditors of the decedent and including unmatured, contingent or OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. 89th Loop, Ocala, Florida, 34481 All other creditors of the decedent and at public sale, to the highest and best other persons having claims or demands unliquidated claims, must file their claims other persons having claims or demands bidder for cash at 10:00 a.m. on February against decedent’s estate must file their with the court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER against decedent's estate must file their 3, 2026 . The sale shall be conducted claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS online at http://www.marion.realforeclose. AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST OF THIS NOTICE. AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST com. Any person claiming an interest in PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT SO FILED WILL BE PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. the surplus proceeds from the sale, if any, ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN FOREVER BARRED. The personal representative has no duty other than the property owner as of the THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN EVEN IF A CLAIM IS NOT BARRED BY to discover whether any property held at date of the notice, must file a claim within FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 THE LIMITATIONS DESCRIBED ABOVE, WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. the time of the decedent's death by the 60 days after the sale.

ALL CLAIMS WHICH HAVE NOT BEEN NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME decedent or the decedent's surviving Publish in Ocala Gazette FILED WILL BE BARRED TWO YEARS spouse is property to which the Florida If you are a person with a disability PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY AFTER DECEDENT’S DEATH. Uniform Disposition of Community who needs an accommodation in CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR The date of death of the decedent is: Property Rights at Death Act as described order to participate in this proceeding, MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE September 23, 2025. in ss. 732.216-732.228, Florida Statutes, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this Notice applies, or may apply, unless a written the provision of certain assistance. is January 2, 2026. demand is made by a creditor as specified Please contact the Public Information Attorney for Personal Representative: The personal representative or curator Marion County THOMAS R. WALSER, ESQ. under s. 732.2211, Florida Statutes. The Department, has no duty to discover whether any written demand must be filed with the Government Center, 601 SE 25th Ave., Attorney for Personal Representative Ocala, FL 34471, Phone (352) 401-6710 E-mail Address: trwalser@ property held at the time of the decedent’s clerk. death by the decedent, or the decedent’s ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN (voice), 352-438-2300 (voice) 711 for floridaprobatefirm.com surviving spouse, is property to which the THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN the hearing impaired. Contact should Florida Bar No. 116596 Florida Uniform Disposition of Community FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 be initiated at least seven days before Florida Probate Law Firm, PLLC the scheduled court appearance, 6751 N. Federal Highway, Ste. 101, Property Rights at Death Act, as WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. described in sections 732.216 – 732.228 NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME or immediately upon receiving this Boca Raton, FL 33487 PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY notification if the time before the Telephone: (561) 210-5500 F.S., applies, or may apply unless a written CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR scheduled appearance is less than demand is made by a creditor as specified Personal Representative: MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT'S DATE seven days. under section 732.2211, F.S. Dated this 29th day of December 2025.

SHANNON FLINK OF DEATH IS BARRED. 370 Cambridge Way The date of first publication of this notice is RABIN PARKER GURLEY, P.A. Attorney for Personal Representative: 2653 McCormick Drive Covington, GA 30016 December 23,2025.

JOSHUA L. MOSES Clearwater, Florida 33759 Richard & Moses, LLC Telephone: (727)475-5535 Attorney for Personal Florida Bar No. 119304 Facsimile: (727)723-1131 Representative: 226 NE Sanchez Avenue 1 st Add Run 01/09/2026 Melissa D. Lazarchick, Esq. For Electronic Service: Pleadings@ Ocala, FL 34470 2 nd Add Run 01/16//2026 Attorney rpglaw.com (352) 369-1300 Florida Bar Number: 43696 Counsel for Plaintiff Extra Space Storage will hold a public Primary Email: Josh@RMProbate.com Joseph C. Kempe, P.A. By: /s/ Nicholaos T. Pizanias 941 N Highway A1A Monique E. Parker, Florida Bar No. auction to sell personal property described below belonging to those individ- Personal Representative: Jupiter, FL 33477 0669210 Telephone: (561) 747-7300 Bennett L. Rabin, Florida Bar No. 0394580 uals listed below at the location indicated: EVELYN BACKA Fax: (561) 747-7722 Adam C. Gurley, Florida Bar No. 0112519 4620 SW College Rd Ocala, Fl 34474 on 2235 Sancroff Court Dunwoody, GA 30338 E-Mail: mlazarchick@kempelaw.

Nicholaos T. Pizanias, Florida Bar No. January 27th, 2026 at 12:00 am com 118857 Tanya Gregory – Household, personal Secondary E-Mail: kjanicki@ Copies furnished to : items kempelaw.com RABIN PARKER GURLEY, P.A. NOTICE OF SPECIAL SCHOOL BOARD Anthony Williams- Boxes, Misc items 2653 McCormick Drive MEETING The auction will be listed and advertised Personal Representative: Clearwater, Florida 33759 on www.storagetreasures.co m.

PurchasWendy R. Aimola For Electronic Service: Pleadings@ es must be made with cash only and paid 850 Vaughn Way RPGLaw.com at the above referenced facility in order Notice is hereby given that the School The Villages, Florida 32163 Keith & Norma Spilde to complete the transaction. Extra Space Board of Marion County, Florida, will 10067 Southwest 89 th Loop Storage may refuse any bid and may meet on January 22, 2026, at 7:00 a.m.

Ocala, FL 34481 rescind any purchase until the winning at the School Board Administration Office, Keith & Norma Spilde NOTICE OF A SCHOOL BOARD bidder takes possession of the personal Brown Greaton Cole Auditorium,1614 E. 2875 Mount Carmel Road ADMINISTRATIVE BRIEFING AND Ft. King Street, Ocala, Florida, 34471. property.

Covington, TN 38019 WORK SESSION

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION

Notice is hereby given that the School Board of Marion County, Florida, will meet in a work session on January 22, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. The meeting will be held at the Browne Greaton Cole Auditorium, 1614 E. Ft. King Street, Ocala, Florida, 34471. An agenda will be published seven days prior to the meeting and may be obtained at the Administration Office between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. The agenda is also available from a link on the District’s website: www.marionschools.net.

NOTICE OF ACTION BEFORE THE DIVISION OF PARIMUTUEL WAGERING IN RE: Sections 550.0251(6) , Florida Statutes.

PAUL CLIFFORD BARROW-COLON 2601 SW 10th Street Apt. 136 Ocala, Florida 34471 CASE NO.: 2025-026374 LICENSE NO.: N/A The Florida Gaming Control Commission has filed an Administrative Complaint against you, a copy of which may be obtained by contacting Ebonie Lanier, Administrative Assistant III, Office of the General Counsel, Florida Gaming Control Commission, 4070 Esplanade Way, Suite 250, Tallahassee, FL 32399, (850) 7948072.

If no contact has been made by you concerning the above by Friday, January 23, 2026, the matter of the Administrative Complaint will be presented to the Florida Gaming Control Commission at the next public meeting for final agency action.

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, persons needing special accommodation to participate in this proceeding should contact the individual or agency sending notice no later than seven days prior to the proceeding at the address given on notice. Telephone: (850) 257- 6097; 1-800-955-8771 (TDD) or 1-800-955-8770 (v), via Florida Relay Service.

NOTICE UNDER FICTITIOUS NAME LAW PURSUANT TO SECTION 865.09, FLORIDA STATUTES NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Julie Shackelford / PREMIUM GOLF CAR GROUP, INC. will engage in business under the fictitious name OCALA DISCOUNT GOLF CAR, with a physical address 7699 SW State Rd 200 Ocala, Florida 34476, with a mailing address 16330 S US-441 Summerfield, FL 34491, and already registered the name mentioned above with the Florida Department of State, Division of Corporations.

Public Notice IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION

IN RE: ESTATE OF PHILIP RAYMOND JOHNSON, A/K/A PHILIP R. JOHNSON,

File No. 25-CP003119AX

Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS (Summary Administration) TO ALL PERSONS HAVING CLAIMS OR DEMANDS AGAINST THE ABOVE ESTATE: You are hereby notified that an Order of Summary Administration has been entered in the estate of Philip Raymond Johnson, a/k/a Philip R. Johnson, deceased, File Number 25-CP-003119AX, by the Circuit Court for Marion County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is Post Office Box 1030, Ocala, Florida 34478, that the decedent's date of death was June 30, 2025; that the total value of the estate is $0.00 and that the names and addresses of those to whom it has been assigned by such order are: Address Name Brian Scott Johnson

757 Tartans Glen St. Calabash, NC 28467

ALL INTERESTED PERSONS ARE NOTIFIED THAT: All creditors of the estate of the decedent and persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent other than those for whom provision for full payment was made in the Order of Summary Administration must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702. ALL CLAIMS AND DEMANDS NOT SO FILED WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING ANY OTHER APPLICABLE TIME PERIOD, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT'S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this Notice is January 2, 2026.

Attorney for Person Giving Notice: /s/ Richard F. Wheeler Richard F. Wheeler, Attorney Florida Bar Number: 285684 Berg & Wheeler, P.A. 4306 New River Hills Parkway, Suite 2 Valrico, FL 33596 Telephone: (813) 685-0050 E-Mail: bergwheeler@verizon.net Secondary E-Mail: bbuchanan. bergwheeler@verizon.net Person Giving Notice: /s/ Brian Scott Johnson Brian Scott Johnson 757 Tartans Glen Street Calabash, NC 28467

Public Notice INVITATION TO BID: Electronic bids will be received by the City of Ocala, via online submittal only before 2:00 P.M. (EST) on February 6, 2026.

NO EXCEPTIONS TO OPENING TIME WILL BE ALLOWED. Paper submissions will not be accepted; all bids must be submitted electronically online at www.bidocala.com hosted by ProRFx. Please be aware, bidders must be preregistered in ProRFx before submitting a bid. Bids shall be for the following project:

A Mandatory Pre-Bid Meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, January 20, 2026 at 9 A.M. (EST) at the City of Ocala Jervey Gantt Aquatic Fun Center, 2390 SE 36th Avenue.

Specifications and details of the bid are available for review and electronic submittal at: http://www.bidocala.com/solicitations/

ocalagazette.column.us/place RICK STEVES' EUROPE

The sips and sounds of a Greek taverna

W

its wilder cousin, tsipouro.

Similar to Italian grappa, this brandy-like liquor is about 40 percent alcohol and makes ouzo seem like kid stuff. It’s the drink of boisterous toasts, tall tales, and meals that drag late into the night. Judging from my fuzzy photos, the last time I had it… well, let’s just say, it was a great example of going extremely local.

In Greece there's no better spot to "go Greek" than at the local taverna.

It doesn't matter if I'm snuggled into the car-free island of Hydra, perched above an untrampled beach on the Mani Peninsula, or enjoying a tiny joint hiding in the shadow of Athens’ Acropolis. When evening comes, taverna conviviality is what I'm after.

With their basic décor, rickety stools, and rustic tables, Greek tavernas are humble at first glance. But after a few laughs and a few drinks, you realize how rich they are in heritage, character, and charm.

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA IN RE: ESTATE OF SURUJNAUTH BOODHRAM, a/k/a S.T. BOODHRAM a/k/a TERRY S. BOODHRAM DECEASED. CASE NO.: 2025-CP-3168 NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of SURUJNAUTH BOODHRAM a/k/a S.T. BOODHRAM a/k/a TERRY S. BOODHRAM, deceased, whose date of death was July 16, 2025, is pending in the Circuit Court for Marion County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is, 110 NW 1st Ave., Ocala, Florida 34475. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative's attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent's estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent's estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. The personal representative or curator has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent's death by the decedent or the decedent's surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in sections 732.216-732,228, applics, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under section 732.2211.

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 first date of publication of this notice is January 9, 2026.

Attorney for Personal Representative, Caleb V. Smith, Esquire Attorney for Personal Representative The Florida Legal Advocacy Group, P.A. 445 NE 8th Ave.,Ocala, Florida 34470 FL Bar No.: 1008368 Tel:352-732-8030 cs@FlagOcala.com Personal Representative, Shawn Boothram, 194 Coastline Drive, Brampton, Ontario, Canada L6Y 0S3

ITB# REC/260033: Reissue-Resurfacing Project- Jervey Gantt Pool Deck

Have a legal ad you need to publish?

henever I'm in Greece, I don't let a sun go down without enjoying a nice glass of ouzo.

It's funny, because I don't even like the taste of that licorice-flavored firewater when I’m back home in the United States. But you can't experience Greek culture without really tasting it – from olives at breakfast to ouzo after dark.

You don't drink ouzo straight; instead, you add ice or water, which turns the ouzo from clear to milky white. When my waiter brings my glass, I give him a melodramatic little show – artfully trickling a few drops of water into my ouzo, magically giving it a milky swirl. It’s a performance in a glass and suddenly, to him, I'm not just another tourist.

I'm a cultural chameleon, mastering a little slice of the Greek life – indicating I'm ready and rarin' for more.

When Greeks really want to show hospitality, the drinking shifts from ouzo to

Public Notice

Greek tavernas are often humble at first glance. But after a few laughs and a few drinks, you realize how rich they are in heritage, character, and charm. (Rick Steves, Rick Steves’ Europe).

Backgammon dice chatter, as do the wrinkled folks tossing them. Worry beads click and clack as they’re threaded between fingers. Hand-rolled cigarettes hang tenuously from lips, and stray cats wait patiently to take your seat – and your dinner – if you dare abandon either.

I like to grab a table in the middle of this action and order my ouzo and a plate of mezedes– with a smattering of dips, olives, and fetastuffed peppers – which is fun to nibble on while I debate which fresh seafood dish sounds right tonight.

(At some seaside tavernas, my options are hanging right in front of me, ready to be thrown on the grill.)

Often, music becomes a part of the evening. Greeks love to dance. Popular dances include the graceful kalamatianos circle dance

and the syrtaki, done with arms outstretched or thrown across one another's shoulders. While these are popular for special events like weddings and baptisms, I’ve found people don’t need much of an excuse to break out in dance…especially at a taverna with live music. (The ouzo helps.)

Music is a part of everyday life in Greece. The traditional instrument here is a bouzouki. Wandering through any town on a weekend summer evening, I like to follow the happy sound of musicians sitting around an outdoor table playing traditional folk tunes on this long-necked mandolin. As night descends, the crowd is ready to go bouzouki-crazy, and the ouzo-fueled magic of the Greek taverna kicks into high gear. Opa!

Going local by drinking local with the locals isn’t just a Greek thing. Wherever you are in Europe, drinks are a fun and easy way to become a temporary European. When I’m in Tuscany, I drink a fullbodied red wine with dinner – but when I’m in the Cinque Terre, I order a glass of the dry, local white. When you aren’t sure what to order, look around, point, and say: “I’ll have what she’s having”. With that approach, rather than just another old-fashioned Old Fashioned, you’ll be swirling sangria in Andalucía, pouring sparkling water into pastis in the south of France, and sipping schnapps while perched high in the Alps.

Even if you don’t like the taste of the local beverage, order it to go with the cultural flow. I may far prefer a cold pilsner, but if I’m at a ye olde alehouse in England, you bet I’m asking for a room-temperature cask ale. Do I wish it was colder and more carbonated? Not in England.

And, stepping into a bar anywhere you travel, embrace that wonderful Irish notion that “strangers are just friends who’ve yet to meet,” and chat up the patrons. With the local drink in hand, you’ll feel – and be – part of the scene. Cheers!

B9

January 9 - 15, 2026 | OCALA GAZETTE

A DICKENS CHRISTMAS The Urban Family’s Holiday Exhibition On View Through January 11 Discover ornately decorated trees, the beloved Dickens Village miniature, an extensive nutcracker collection, handmade Santas from around the world, and more!

On the first and second floors, enjoy 17 trees decorated by community organizations and businesses.

Appleton Museum, Artspace and Store Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday, noon-5 p.m.

4333 E. Silver Springs Blvd. Ocala, FL | AppletonMuseum.org

Animal Crackers

Broom Hilda

ANSWERS FOR PAGE B7 Sudoku

Middletons

Jumble

Gasoline Alley

Crossword

KNACK WINCE GRILLE THORAX Answers: While interviewing Christopher from "Catch Me If You Can," the host was — "WALKEN" ON AIR

B10

January 9 - 15, 2026 | OCALA GAZETTE