Judge’s law enforcement status prompts paperwork shuffle at MCSO
By Jennifer Hunt Murty jennifer@ocalagazette.com
Circuit Judge Timothy McCourt recently found himself navigating a tangled administrative web regarding his past employment with the Marion County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) after state records indicated his law enforcement certification remained active while he served as a judge. The Florida Constitution generally prohibits a person from simultaneously holding dual offices, such as an active sworn law enforcement officer and a judge.
The paper trail began on Jan. 29, 2026, when the “Gazette” contacted McCourt to point out that the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) database still listed him as an active MCSO employee. Upon receiving the inquiry, McCourt immediately contacted MCSO Human Resources, reminding them that he had resigned his positions as General Counsel and deputy sheriff effective Jan. 2, 2024, specifically to assume his role as a judge Jan. 3, 2024.
Upon hearing from McCourt, MCSO HR Director Monica Chisholm signed the first of three “Affidavit of Separation” forms (CJSTC 61), listing his separation date as his original exit date: Jan. 2, 2024.
However, just a few days later, the agency changed course. On Feb. 2, Chisholm signed a second affidavit, this time listing McCourt’s official separation date as Jan. 29, 2026. The office informed McCourt the date was changed because his credentials had ostensibly been held on inactive reserve status, meaning the office had to “use the date of the request to separate as the separation date.”
See MCSO, page A7
WEC’s soccer, baseball, football and concert complex clears final hurdles
After discussions about traffic impacts, concerts and noise levels, and a formal letter of opposition, the BOCC voted unanimously to approve the project.
By Belea T. Keeney belea@magnoliamediaco.com
In a sparsely attended third and final public hearing about the World Equestrian Center Sports at WEC, the Marion County Board of County Commissioners voted 5-0 to allow the expansive sports complex.
The vote during the board’s March 18 Planning & Zoning meeting allows for multiple sports fields, a concert/events center and up to eight concerts per year held in the outdoor venues, with the possibility of up to 24 concerts per year after review by the county. The project spans about 250 acres in the southwest corner of the WEC complex and fronts State Road 40. A portion of it is within the Urban Growth Boundary.
The soccer fields are already under construction on land previously designated for low-density housing and “equestrian estates.” The Comp Plan large-scale text amendments and land-use changes revise low-residential usage to Urban/WEC land use and adds new definitions of sports facilities beyond the equestrian-related amenities already in place.
The nearly five-hour meeting had several public commenters, both for and against the project; a presentation from an attorney representing Charlotte Weber, a neighbor in opposition; and several experts for WEC speaking about noise, light and traffic management. The final board discussion involved sometimes confusing back-andforth between the board, staff and the applicant. Especially problematic were the restrictions on concerts.
Attorney Jimmy Gooding was the main WEC representative supplemented by discussions with traffic experts, sports league reps and sound experts; along with Wyatt Stephens, director of WEC Sports; Danny Sheldon, a lighting expert; and David Tillman, owner of Tillman & Associates Engineering, a local firm that represents many of the development projects in the county.
TRAFFIC CONCERNS AND PAID PARKING
The commissioners approved the overall development application in July 2025 and, as a Development of Regional Impact, the application was sent to the state for review. It was returned with concerns about public
facilities regarding water/sewer and the lack of a completed traffic study. That study has since been completed, Gooding said.
The entire WEC Planned Unit Development (PUD) is served by its own water wells and water treatment plant. With regard to area traffic, Commissioner Kathy Bryant pressed staff about the coming improvements to the future widening of Northwest 70th/80th Avenue north of State Road 40 up to U.S. 27 and asked for a timeline.
The county currently has bids out for April, with construction to start in midsummer or by the end of summer, said County Engineer Steven Cohoon. That portion has a 12-month time frame.
The Florida Department of Transportation has no plans to expand SR 40, the east-west access to the south end of WEC, where the sports complex would be sited.
Because many of WEC’s patrons tow horse trailers, there was discussion about extended turn lanes and the larger turn radius needed for trailers and rigs.
See WEC, page A8
Inaugural event
12 local heroes are inducted into Marion County Veterans Hall of Fame.
By Andy Fillmore andy@ocalagazette.com
The first ever Marion County Veterans Hall of Fame induction ceremony was held March 19 at the Southeastern Livestock Pavilion Auditorium in Ocala.
About 350 guests attended the ceremony, which honored 12 local
veterans, including the county’s sole Medal of Honor recipient and several members of the Marion County Memorial Honor Guard, for their lifetimes of service to country and community. Marion County Commissioner Carl Zalak III praised the inductees in opening remarks for their integrity and “legacy we’ll never forget. Heroes we call neighbors… the spirit and heart of Marion County.”
Zalak acknowledged the Ocala nonprofit Veterans Helping Veterans USA of Marion County as the prime mover in establishing the MCVHOF and County Commissioner Craig Curry as the “tip of the spear” for the county’s participation.
See Inaugural event, page A4
Judge Timothy McCourt
U.S. Navy and U.S Coast Guard veteran William Dorsey, center, is honored by Myles McConico, Veterans Helping Veterans deputy director and Daisy Diaz, Marion County Veterans Services director, as he is inducted into the Marion County Veterans Hall of Fame in Ocala on March 19, 2026. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette]
Construction workers grade and drop fill dirt at the site where work has already started on the new sports complex north of Highway 40 and near the southwest corner of the World Equestrian Center in Ocala on March 24, 2026. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2026.
COMMUNITY NEWS
By Susan Smiley-Height susan@magnoliamediaco.com
LIBRARY
TEMPORARILY CLOSED FOR EXPANSION COMPLETION
Marion County’s Freedom Public Library is temporarily closed through April 12 as crews complete the final phase of a major expansion project.
The closure will allow for construction, interior improvements and transition into the expanded space, the news release noted.
The library will expand from 8,100 square feet to approximately 32,000 square feet. The project includes:
• Additional shelving space for books and materials
• New study rooms and workspaces
A separate 5,000-square-foot children’s area with increased space for age-appropriate programming
OPD CAPTAIN GRADUATES FROM FBI ACADEMY
On March 18, Capt. Anthony Vizzini of the Ocala Police Department graduated from the FBI National Academy’s 297th Session in Quantico, Virginia.
The 10-week program unites law enforcement leaders from across the globe for advanced training in leadership, communication, fitness and more. Participants are selected based on exceptional leadership abilities and dedication to excellence, according to the news release.
The session included 253 officers from 48 states, the District of Columbia and 24 countries, as well as members of federal and military organizations. Since its establishment in 1935, the FBI National Academy has graduated more than 56,000 law
and a dedicated story time room
A larger meeting room to accommodate library programming, early voting and community engagement
• A Friends of the Freedom Public Library bookstore offering gently used books, CDs and other materials, with proceeds supporting library programs and services
The public is invited to join the grand opening celebration at 10:30 a.m. on April 13.
For information about other library locations and services, visit marionfl.org/library
enforcement professionals, the release noted.
Vizzini began his career with OPD in 2000 and has served in leadership roles across specialized units. He currently serves as the Professional Standards Captain.
WPHS TOPS OTHER LOCAL JROTC TEAMS
The West Port High School JROTC team bested teams from other local high schools to win an athletic meet on March 13 at the Ocala-Marion County Veterans Memorial Park in Ocala.
The second annual meet included JROTC members from West Port High School, North Marion High School, Lake Weir High School and Belleview High School. Team members participated in games of volleyball, kickball and tog-owar, according to Glenn Dunn, a member of the Friends of Marion
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County Veterans Park Board of Directors.
Dunn said West Port High School JROTC was given a trophy as best all-around in the meet.
“This event is one of the few times JROTC gets to socialize with units from other schools… The focus was on the 250-year celebration as a nation with a cake cutting. Col. Cunningham of North Marion High gave remarks regarding the celebration and its significance,” Dunn said via text.
FREE LIFE SKILLS WORKSHOPS
The Community Home Project, an initiative of the Marion County Hospital District, is hosting a free Life Skills Workshop Series on Thursdays from April 2 through April 30
The series will be held from 5-7 p.m. at the Howard Academy Community Center at 306 NW 7th Ave., Ocala. It is designed to support individuals and families in building healthy habits for everyday life, according to the press release.
The interactive classes include:
• Healthy boundaries
Effective communication
Mental health awareness
Self-care strategies
• Nutrition and healthy eating habits
Budgeting and financial basics
Healthy habits at home
Space is limited and advance registration is encouraged. To register, call (352) 671-4186.
Susan Smiley-Height Editor susan@magnoliamediaco.com
Belea Keeney Reporter belea@magnoliamediaco.com
Jamie Berube Reporter jamie@ocalagazette.com
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Architect’s rendering of expanded Freedom Public Library. [Photo courtesy Marion County]
Maj. Richard Telesco and Glenn Dunn at the recent JROTC athletic meet. [Submitted photo]
York Times Co. v. United States (1971)
Capt. Anthony Vizzini [Photo courtesy OPD]
America 250
Marion County officials outline their plans for the nation’s 250th birthday.
By Jennifer Hunt Murty jennifer@ocalagazette.com
Marion County government officials discussed during the March 17 county commission meeting their evolving plans for marking the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
Assistant County Administrator Amanda Tart told commissioners the America 250 effort is designed to be far more than a singleday observance.
“This plan is designed to do more than just commemorate a historic milestone. It will educate our community about the significance of the 250th anniversary, energize our local economy by spotlighting businesses and vendors, showcase the talents of our artists and performers, and attract visitors to experience all that Marion County has to offer,” Tart said.
She noted that the county’s proposed reach for residents and visitors between now and July 4 is “well over 500,000 people.”
commemorative plaque honoring Sir Francis Marion, the Revolutionary War figure for whom the county is named.
JULY 4: PARADE AND FIREWORKS AT FOUR SITES
Festivities will peak on July 4 with a Patriot Parade followed by synchronized fireworks shows at four locations across Marion County.
“The Patriot parade led by none other than Sue Moseley, will kick off the events on the fourth at the Ocala Marion Veterans Memorial Park,” Tart said. “The parade will start at 7 p.m. A variety of veterans groups, local businesses and community organizations will participate in the parade, which will travel down Fort King and continue on to State Road 40, celebrating our community and honoring our nation in a vibrant and festive way.”
Fireworks will be launched simultaneously from four venues: The Ocala-Marion County Veterans Memorial Park, Wrigley Field in Citra, Dunnellon High School and the Belleview Sports Complex.
“Since my last update to the board, our executive steering committee has been meeting monthly to review plans, share ideas and work together toward our mission of making this year’s celebration truly extraordinary,” Tart said, adding that the effort will “help strengthen our county’s civic pride, community awareness and democratic engagement, ensuring that celebration leads a lasting impact well beyond July 4.”
VETERANS HALL OF FAME AND “ONE NATION, MANY STORIES”
One of the first major America 250 events was the Marion County Veterans Hall of Fame, presented by Vets Helping Vets, which took place the evening of March 19 at the Southeastern Livestock Pavilion auditorium.
“I am proud to share that this event has reached maximum capacity and is now sold out with an expected 350 attendees,” Tart told meeting attendees.
The county library’s ongoing “One Nation Many Stories” initiative will preserve veterans’ stories through recorded interviews.
“This project preserves and honors the story of our veterans for generations to come,” Tart explained. “Patrons of the library will be able to view these video interviews through Biblio board software… The first video is set to be released shortly after Marion County Day (March 28).”
Faithbased programming is also part of the lineup. The “America Praises” series features two local faith leaders each week, leading prayer on Wednesdays at 7:30 a.m.
“Each week, we have seen participation in this initiative continue to grow,” Tart said, offering “a special shout out to Mr. Chad Wicker, our director of municipal services, who has ensured that this program runs smoothly each week.”
MARION COUNTY DAY: BIGGER THAN EVER
The county’s annual Marion County Day celebration, set for March 28, is expected to draw nearly 15,000 people and feature more than 200 vendors.
“It is shaping up to be the biggest Marion County Day celebration we have ever hosted,” Tart told the board. “Attendees will enjoy a wide variety of activities, including numerous food trucks, bounce houses and displays from our departments and our first responders, such as the Marion County Sheriff’s Office helicopter and other emergency vehicles.”
A live drum line from Marion County Public Schools and an art contest will highlight local student talent.
PATRIOTIC PUBLIC ART AND A PLAQUE FOR FRANCIS MARION
The county is also planning permanent tributes linked to America 250.
“We are currently working with the Marion County Cultural Alliance to acquire a Horse Fever horse that will be painted in a patriotic theme and be named Liberty,” Tart said. “This display will commemorate our America 250 celebration [and] serve as a lasting symbol of our community’s tribute to this historic milestone.”
She added that they will “return to the board at a future meeting to provide several options for locations where this horse can be prominently displayed for residents and visitors to enjoy.”
In partnership with the Daughters of the American Revolution, Veteran Services and Parks and Recreation, the county also plans a
“Each venue will feature food trucks and vendors with festivities beginning at 5 p.m. and the fireworks show starting promptly at 9 p.m.,” Tart said. “This coordinated celebration will allow residents and visitors across the county and beyond to enjoy the spectacle and spirit of America 250 wherever they are.”
SPONSORSHIPS, COST AND FUNDRAISING GOALS
Tart reported that the county has already secured major corporate backing and is moving toward fully funding the celebration through sponsorships.
“Our title sponsor, AdventHealth, kicked things off in an incredible way with a $75,000 sponsorship,” she said. “In fact, we are approaching the $125,000 mark, which is a tremendous milestone.”
Commissioners also discussed a broader fundraising target for the full slate of America 250 events and initiatives. Commissioner Michelle Stone asked what the funding goal for festivities was and Commission Chair Carl Zalak answered, $300,000 was “the working goal, with a significant portion expected to come from a formal fundraising event.”
AMERICANA BALL
To help close the funding gap, the county is planning an Americana Ball, a formal fundraiser in partnership with The Club at Iron Lake.
In February, Oculus R Golf Partners announced its acquisition of the former Adena property north of Ocala. The community has been renamed IronCrest and includes The Club at Iron Lake luxury golf and country club.
“This ball will serve as a fundraiser to help raise the funds needed to carry out all these initiatives,” Tart explained. “We have attentively scheduled this formal event for June and we’re planning to host it in collaboration with Iron Lake Golf Club. Guests will enjoy exceptional food and entertainment, and they will even have the chance to get a preview of our July 4 celebration, as our firework vendor Alpha Fireworks will put on a mini show that evening over Iron Lake.”
The commission chair told colleagues they are positioning the event as a highdollar fundraiser, with corporatelevel table sponsorships:
Zalak encouraged the other commissioners to help sell tables, “we’re thinking right around $5,000 a table, and so like that, we’d like to try to promote that and get company sponsorships to help drive that home so that we can raise enough money,” the chair said.
PROFESSIONAL EVENT MANAGEMENT AND COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS
To ensure the growing calendar of events runs smoothly, the county has hired Making It Matthews, a professional event planning firm.
“Their expertise will help coordinate logistics, manage vendor operations, and provide onsite support, ensuring that every aspect of our celebrations, from setup to break down, goes off without a hitch,” Tart said.
For events after Marion County Day, the firm will also handle vendor vetting, maps, layouts and other operational tasks.
Tart said the county is also partnering with Ocala Main Street on exhibits and events planned for June 28 through July 3, ahead of the July 4 festivities. To learn more, go to marioncelebrates250.org
Assistant County Administrator Amanda Tart speaks during a meeting in Ocala on Nov. 17, 2025. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette file photo]
Inaugural event
Continued from page A1
Ocala City councilman James Hilty Sr., a U.S. Marine Corps veteran of the Vietnam War, serves as chairman of the board of Veterans Helping Veterans USA of Marion County.
Five veterans were honored posthumously and seven were inducted into the county’s newly established Veterans Hall of Fame and received a blazer jacket with the MCVHOF logo.
The Florida Department of Veterans Affairs has sponsored the Florida Veterans Hall of Fame for a number of years and two local veterans, Craig Ham (2023) and Steve Petty (2025) have been named into both halls of fame.
Master of ceremonies Roger Waddell, a USMC veteran, said the MCVHOF recognition was about service that extended beyond the inductees’ years in the military and impacted their community. He said service “doesn’t end when you leave your unit.”
Ocala Mayor Ben Marciano told the attendees the inductees not only answered a call to serve their county but continued that service when they came home.
“Service doesn’t end when the uniform comes off,” Marciano said.
Daisy Diaz, director of the Marion County Veterans Service Office and Myles McConico, deputy director, Veterans Helping Veterans USA of Marion County, presented inductee awards.
The five posthumous inductions were:
* Hammett Bowen Jr. , U.S. Army, the county’s only Medal of Honor recipient, who died during the Vietnam War at age 21 when he threw himself on an incoming enemy grenade saving the lives of several comrades.
Commissioner Curry was asked to accept the recognition plaque for Bowen.
“I shed some tears,” Curry said about accepting the plaque.
Curry said he and Bowen, a year or two his senior at Ocala High School, were friends who “used to double date.”
* Frank Rasbury, U.S. Army, called a “cornerstone” of the Marion County veterans’ community who served with numerous organizations.
* Edward Johnson Jr. U.S. Army, Silver Star recipient and aviator who flew “Huey” helicopters and refused to leave fellow soldiers behind; he served on the Munroe Regional Medical Center Board.
* Henry Lamar Hunt, U.S. Army chaplain, known for “whisper” religious services for soldiers on the front lines during the Vietnam War, he spearheaded starting the Quarterly Memorials.
* Lewis Alston, U.S. Marine Corps, veteran of the Vietnam War and Purple Heart recipient. He was in the Marine 1st Division 1st Recon and was injured by shrapnel and suffered from exposure to the chemical Agent Orange. He was known for his selfless commitment to fellow veterans — “it’s not about me” — the induction presentation quoted him. Alston, who moved to Ocala from Pennsylvania, participated in at least 800 military honors funeral services with the Marion County Memorial Honor Guard and in Pennsylvania. Many in Florida were held at the National Cemetery in Bushnell. He was a regular presence at the Quarterly Memorial honoring local veterans who had recently passed away.
Alston’s brother, Arvin Alston, traveled from Pennsylvania with his wife, Diana, for the inaugural MCVHOF ceremony.
Arvin Alston was clearly moved as he held the recognition plaque which read in part, “celebrating his tireless devotion and unwavering commitment” and notes his “can do attitude.”
In a previous text exchange, Arvin Alston called Marion County “the community (Lewis Alston) loved.”
The other veterans honored were:
* Jeffrey Askew: U.S. Navy service 1977 to 1999, he served scores of veterans and helped them navigate benefits and more as director of the Marion County Veterans Service Office. He served in the office for 22 years, according to a video presentation and retired in 2025.
Askew stated in the video that military service guided him to “do the right thing” and “take care of the people around me.”
Askew also oversaw the Ocala-Marion County Veterans Memorial Park and organized and participated in many events held at the site, which have helped increase awareness of the park.
* William Dorsey, a Vietnam War veteran, served in the Navy from 19621972 and in the Coast Guard from 1972-1982. He commented on how
to “work as a team” and community involvement including participation with his church. Since 2007, Dorsey has volunteered to provide military honor funerals for at least 4,500 veterans, according to the presentation.
* John Erskine, served in many capacities in the Army from 1962 to 1987 including battalion commander and in the Pentagon. He said never be “afraid to serve” and that he worked to “set an example” for his children.
* Bruce Gonseth, his 26-year military career, which began in 1978, included service with the Navy and later Navy Security and Department of Defense Police Department in the Jacksonville area. Gonseth has helped an untold number of veterans as a mentor with Veterans Treatment Court and as “someone to listen.” A previous report published in the “Gazette” stated “the veterans could be suffering the effects of PTSD and programs are offered to help with substance abuse issues. Gonseth said about 87% of participants complete the program and about 90% of program graduates do not commit repeat crimes.”
* R. Craig Ham, Army, Vietnam, an Eagle Scout, he joined the Military Police in 1969 and began his Army career in 1974. His service included working under Colin Powell, who he said treated all contacted “with respect.”
Ham’s Florida VHOF biography states that in addition to the Vietnam Service Medal and Legion of Merit Bronze Star, he has a doctorate in urban studies and criminology.
Ham moved to Ocala about 30 years ago and began teaching at Forest High School and instituted an EMIT Engineering Program. He has served and continues to serve on numerous educational and veteran organizations, including as president of the Marion County Veterans Council and as organizer and a primary volunteer for Stuff the Bus to produce classroom materials to students in need.
* Donald Kennedy, Navy, 1971 to 1993, recipient of the Navy National Defense Award member of the Marion County Memorial Honor Guard who has served for at least 700 military honors funerals. He has overseen the work of the guard and ensured all equipment needed for each ceremony was prepared and taken to the locations. Kennedy has made sure 35 unclaimed veterans received military honors funerals, according to the presentation.
His service career included work with electronics and countermeasures, and he has worked with NATO Command. He enjoyed instructing and seeing success. Kennedy serves as a director with the Vet Resource Center in Ocala, which provides the Galleri cancer screening blood tests.
* Stephen Petty, Army aviator, flew more than 1,000 missions in Vietnam War including medical evacuations that saved at least 200 soldiers. Silver Star and Purple Heart Award recipient.
A report published in the “Gazette” stated that a soldier saved by Petty and his crew in 1968 recently wrote to Petty and stated he raised a family and had entered politics.
“He got us home,” the saved soldier reportedly wrote Petty, also inducted into the state VHOF, serves as president of the Marion County Memorial Honor Guard and co-founded the Vet Resource Center Ocala, which provides the Galleri cancer screening blood tests and can provide referrals for assistance on Agent Orange and Burn Pit concerns. He said at about 700 veterans have taken the Galleri test. Curry was recognized by inductee Perry for his help in securing a $600,000 Marion County Hospital District grant for the Vet Resource Center toward providing the Galleri cancer screening blood tests here at no cost to veterans and reduced cost to first responders.
Hannah Stuckey sang the national anthem and the Marion County Memorial Honor Guard posted the colors and the members on hand were recognized. Members of the North Marion High School Air Force JROTC program assisted at the ceremony.
Marion County Commissioner Matt McClain attended the ceremony with his son, Titus, 6.
When asked what he thought about the veterans and the ceremony, Titus said, “Good.”
To learn more, go to marionfl.org
Family members and representatives of posthumous inductees.
Inductee John Erskine, a U.S. Army veteran, is honored by Myles McConico, Veterans Helping Veterans deputy director, left, and Daisy Diaz, Marion County Veterans Services director, right.
Inductees and family members sitting together.
U.S. Army veteran Craig Ham is honored as he is inducted.
The Marion County Memorial Honor Guard presents the colors.
Matthew Cretul of Marion County, left, talks with 101-year-old World War II veteran Howard Mautner.
U.S. Navy Vietnam veteran Red Zell talks with other veterans at his table.
Inductee Stephen Petty, a U.S. Army veteran, is congratulated by Roger Waddell of Marion County.
U.S. Navy veteran Bruce Gonseth speaks as he is inducted.
Lew Wolfe, a U.S. Marine Corps Vietnam veteran, salutes for the national anthem.
Cadets with the North Marion High School U.S. Air Force JROTC served as greeters.
U.S. Navy veteran Donald Kennedy has his Hall of Fame jacket placed on him by Myles McConico.
The keynote speaker was Rear Admiral Bill Leigher, U.S. Navy retired.
Photos by Bruce Ackerman Ocala Gazette
Jervey Gantt Aquatic Center pool deck resurfacing
Ocala City Council approves contract for out-of-state firm after extensive outreach.
By Jamie Berube jamie@ocalagazette.com
The pool deck at Jervey Gantt Aquatic Center is getting a facelift.
Ocala City Council members have approved a $262,580 contract for resurfacing the pool deck, breezeway and restroom floors at the Jervey Gantt Aquatic Fun Center.
Aquatic Renovation Systems, Inc. d/b/a RenoSys Corp. of Indianapolis, was named the lowest responsive and responsible bidder on the city’s reissued invitation to bid (ITB) for the project. The city issued a notice of intent to award on Feb. 12 and the council granted final approval during its regularly scheduled meeting on March 17.
“The solicitation underlying this purchase was issued as an invitation to bid, which, in accordance with the city’s procurement policy, is appropriate for use where complete, adequate and precise technical specifications for the services are clearly defined and the solicitation will lead to a firm fixed price contract,” explained Greg Davis, public information officer for the city.
“The basis for award under an ITB is the lowest responsive and responsible bidder. A bidder is deemed to be responsive where the bid submitted conforms in all material respects to the solicitation documents. A bidder is deemed to be responsible where documentation supports that the bidder is capable of meeting all of the requirements of the solicitation and has the full ability to perform as contractually required. References were requested by the city in the solicitation, provided by RenoSys, and
verified by procurement and contracting staff prior to award,” Davis said.
A lower bid of $208,574.45 from Sundek Commercial Contracting, dba Sundek National Accounts, based in Grand Prairie, Texas, was rejected as nonresponsive for failing to meet licensing and bid-bond requirements, according to the official bid tabulation.
Residents may wonder why the city didn’t hire a local contractor for the project.
Davis said the city followed its standard rules for large purchases like this one, which was more than $50,000. Those rules require a formal, open and competitive bidding process that is publicly advertised to give everyone a fair chance to bid.
“The city’s procurement policy requires goods and services valued at >$50,000 to be procured by a formal, publicly advertised, competitive solicitation process. In this case, the city advertised its solicitation for pool resurfacing twice, the first from Oct. 20, 2025, to Dec. 15, 2025 (18,722 registered vendors were notified via the city’s e-procurement system) and the second from Jan. 7, 2026, to Feb. 6, 2026 (18,724 vendors notified). The city also sourced and personally emailed 51 additional pool contracting vendors to inform them of the opportunity. Despite our efforts, only two bidders responded to the solicitation, and neither were from the Ocala area,” Davis noted.
“The scope of work required responsive bidders to be certified by the State of Florida as a pool/spa contractor. While the awarded company is headquartered in another state, the company does possess the requisite Florida licensure. The solicitation also clearly
Code and the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code. The contract with RenoSys includes the following key timeline and requirements: The contractor must start work within 10 working days after receiving the city’s official notice to proceed. The project must reach substantial completion within 45 calendar days from the notice to proceed.
• The entire project must be ready for final inspection and payment no later than May 15, 2026.
If the contractor misses the completion deadline, the city can charge liquidated damages (a set penalty for delays) of $250 per day. After substantial completion, any remaining delays would incur $100 per day.
notified all bidders that the city’s local vendor preference ordinance, ordinance 2017-35, applied. Had a local vendor submitted a bid in response to the city’s solicitation, they would have had the opportunity to use it to their advantage. Absent extenuating circumstances, placing geographical restrictions on solicitations (i.e. restricting a bid to only local vendors) goes against procurement regulations,” Davis continued.
The project addresses the existing knockdown-textured concrete surface, installed in 2020, that has begun cracking, peeling and crumbling across approximately 17,650 square feet.
RenoSys will install a commercial-grade reinforced PVC membrane decking system, the city’s preferred option, replace three sections of NDS channel drain grate covers, add a 2- to 3-foot contrasting safety border around the pool edge and install new depth markers.
Key requirements include high slip resistance that meets Florida Department of Health standards and ADA compliance; UV-, chlorine- and chemical-resistant materials; repair of expansion joints; and full compliance with the Florida Building
Construction work is scheduled for weekdays only, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., to minimize disruption. Once the work passes final inspection, the Jervey Gantt Aquatic Fun Center is expected to reopen to the public shortly afterward.
On facility usage, Davis noted that the aquatic center is utilized throughout the year.
“Tekmasters Swim Club rents time at the pools all year for practice,” Davis said.
According to Davis, public swim hours are seasonal, typically from late May through late August, around May 30 to Aug. 30, sometimes extending to Labor Day weekend.
The pools are open for public use Tuesday through Saturday, with morning sessions from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and afternoon sessions from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. On Sundays and Mondays, only afternoon sessions are offered, from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. Hours may vary toward the end of the season, with some periods limited to weekends only in late August or early September.
To learn more about Jervey Gantt the city’s other such venues, go to ocalafl.gov/ government/city-departments-i-z/recreationparks/recreation/aquatic-fun-centers
Jara Fermaintt plays with her son, Ethan Techera, 2, in the pool at the Jervey Gantt Aquatic Fun Center in Ocala on July 20, 2021. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette file photo]
Springtime means bear movement
FWC issues tips to help people be BearWise and avoid conflicts.
Staff report
During springtime, wildlife across Florida becomes more active.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is encouraging residents and visitors to be BearWise and remain alert for Florida black bears as they emerge from their winter rest.
In March, black bears come out of their winter dens and start actively looking for food and water, often taking advantage of any easy meal they find. Items such as unsecured trash, bird seed or pet food can attract them. Taking steps to secure these food sources helps discourage bears from lingering in your neighborhood and reduces the chance that mother bears will teach their cubs to treat your yard as a reliable feeding spot, the FWC news release noted.
“We expect an active spring for Florida’s bears with many yearlings on the move as
they disperse across the landscape,” said Mike Orlando, FWC Bear Management Program Coordinator, in the release. “By following some basic tips, you can minimize the chance of conflict between people and bears, both this spring and year-round.”
OPINION
A promise made, a trust tested
By the “Ocala Gazette” Editorial Board
The Marion County Commission’s 5-0 vote to approve a large-scale sports complex and concert venue at the World Equestrian Center (WEC) is more than a major land-use decision — it marks a turning point in how seriously this community’s long-standing commitments to rural preservation will be honored.
For months, the Roberts family, which owns WEC, has acted with confidence that this approval was inevitable, moving forward with preparations on land that was, until now, understood to be protected in character and intent. Now, their confidence appears wellplaced.
But for many Marion County residents, especially those who have built lives, businesses and investments around the promise of rural protection, the decision feels like something else entirely: a breach of trust.
Ten years ago, the county made a significant exception to its Farmland Preservation Area to allow 1,000 acres to be subsumed into the World Equestrian Center. That exception was not arbitrary. It was rooted in a shared understanding that equine uses, even at scale, were compatible with the surrounding rural landscape and culture. Horses, after all, are integral to Marion County’s identity.
The nonprofit Horse Farms Forever organization, which has a mission to raise awareness and provide education to ensure the character and culture that horses and horse farms bring to Ocala/Marion County are protected for future generations, expressed its disappointment in the board’s decision, writing to the “Gazette,” “When Golden Ocala Equestrian Land asked the county to move the boundary of the Farmland Preservation Area, they promised to build the World Equestrian Center. Golden Ocala kept that promise and what they have built is spectacular. It shows a passion for equestrian activities and has changed Ocala forever. We applaud their efforts and thank them for being founding members of Horse Farms Forever.
“However, the WEC Sports Complex has nothing to do with horses. Instead, it puts an intense commercial activity on property reserved for low density residential equestrian estates meant to act as a transition to the Farmland Preservation Area. Its approval corrupts the integrity of our comprehensive plan and land development code.”
Additionally, a previous settlement agreement between WEC, longtime local thoroughbred breeder Charlotte Weber of Live Oak Stud, et al, and the county clarified that the 250 acres of that part of WEC would be zoned solely for equestrian estates on 3- to 10-acre lots. The county attorney has dismissed that agreement, saying it wasn’t meant to be in perpetuity. Notably, the agreement did not specify a sunset date, either. So much for the county’s promise to area residents.
What was promised was a tailored exception. What is now being delivered looks far more like a precedent.
The newly approved project includes not only more than a dozen sports fields, but also a concert and events component—one that could grow to as many as 24 concerts per year. These are not equine uses. And these are not minor additions. They bring noise, traffic, lighting and intensity that surrounding horse farms and rural residents have long warned are incompatible with the very environment the county once pledged to protect.
To understand why this feels like a betrayal, consider this: it’s as if a community agreed to let a neighbor build a barn—because barns belong in the countryside—only to later find that same structure is being converted into an event hall hosting crowds, amplified music and late-night traffic. The structure may be the same, but the use—and its impact—has fundamentally changed.
That is the core of the concern: not the project itself, but a shifting of agreed-to terms in a special area, after the fact.
Even some who support investment in youth sports acknowledge the disconnect. School board member Nancy Thrower, a consistent
BearWise is an education and outreach program founded, supported and funded by member state wildlife agencies. Here are some basics to keep in mind: Never feed or approach bears.
• Remove bird feeders when bears are active.
• Feed your pets inside if possible and never leave pet food outdoors.
• Clean and store your grills and smokers.
• Secure food, garbage and recycling.
• Alert your neighbors to bear activity in the area.
Live in bear country? Follow this at-home checklist. And remember, a screened-in porch or deck counts as “outside” to a hungry black bear, according to the FWC.
Black bears are generally not aggressive but might act defensively if threatened or provoked. Dogs can easily trigger defensive behavior in bears, especially females with cubs. When walking dogs, keep them close to you on a short leash and stay aware of your
surroundings. Before letting your dog into your yard, flip exterior lights on and off and bang on the door to give bears and other wildlife a chance to leave the area, the FWC notes.
To avoid vehicle collisions with bears and other wildlife, slow down when driving, particularly on rural highways at dawn or dusk. Look for road signs identifying bear and other wildlife crossing areas. Each year in Florida, 300 bears on average are killed after being hit by vehicles.
Those who are having conflicts with bears can call one of the FWC’s five regional offices to speak with a biologist. Go to myfwc.com/ contact and click on “Contact Regional Offices” to find the phone number for your region. Call the FWC’s Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922) to report someone who is harming bears or intentionally feeding them. More information is available at myfwc. com/bear and bearwise.org
advocate for preserving Marion County’s rural character, went to social media to welcome the concept of new athletic facilities—but questioned the placement adjacent to farmland. On that point, we agree.
There is also the matter of how this decision was communicated.
Within two hours of the meeting’s conclusion, Commission Chair Carl Zalak released a polished video to social media framing the vote as a “private sector win for sports” and a major benefit for local youth without mentioning the costs to participate. The full video of the public meeting itself, however, would not be made available for two days.
That sequence matters.
It created the appearance that the narrative was shaped before the public had a chance to fully review what had occurred in a nearly fivehour meeting marked by complex testimony, legal questions and substantial opposition. It was, at best, incomplete. At worst, it felt disingenuous.
And while the benefits to youth athletics are real and worth discussing, the framing obscures
a key fact acknowledged even by the developer’s own consultants: this is not an altruistic endeavor. It is a business decision in the forprofit youth sports sector—one designed, in part, to drive occupancy at WEC’s hotels and activity at its restaurants during tournaments.
The spin offered by Zalak feels like gaslighting.
Marion County residents have repeatedly demonstrated that they value their rural landscape—not as an abstract idea, but as a defining feature of their community and economy. The Farmland Preservation Area was meant to reflect that intention.
When exceptions are made, they must be narrow, transparent and faithful to the original intent. Otherwise, each new exception chips away at the very foundation the policy was meant to protect.
This decision raises a larger question that extends beyond a single project: If the definition of “compatible use” can shift this dramatically over time, what assurances remain for those who rely on the county’s long-term planning commitments? Growth is inevitable. But trust is not.
A Florida black bear peers down from a branch in a live oak tree in the backyard of Lloyd Rawls Jr. in southeast Ocala on March 21, 2025. [Bruce Ackerman/
This map of Marion County, on display during a Horse Farms Forever conservation summit in 2020, shows the Farmland Preservation Area. The mission of the nonprofit HFF is to raise awareness and provide education to ensure the character and culture that horses and horse farms bring to Ocala/Marion County are protected for future generations. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette file photo]
McCourt pushed back forcefully against this second affidavit. In a Feb. 11 email to MCSO, he expressed frustration, insisting that his original resignation letter of Dec. 21, 2023, clearly and unambiguously terminated his employment as a deputy sheriff. He pointed out that he had turned in his agency-issued weapon, badge and vehicle upon leaving, and noted that judicial ethics prohibited him from holding a reserve certificate in the same county where he presides over criminal cases.
However, McCourt was likely placed on reserve status with the MCSO due to a Patrol Reserve form he signed and dated Dec. 28, 2023, a week after his resignation letter, which offered three choices: active status, inactive status or separation. McCourt signed and dated his choice as “inactive status.”
In an email dated Feb. 11, McCourt wrote to MCSO Human Resources Executive Assistant Emily Zeigafuse, “I contacted Sheriff (Billy) Woods and informed him of all of this. He advised that this situation will be rectified and that a corrected and amended separation affidavit will be submitted to reflect that my separation date was Jan. 2, 2024.”
The agency issued a third affidavit on Feb. 11, the date of McCourt’s email, amending the separation date back to the original Jan. 2, 2024. FDLE has recently updated their records and seemingly accepted the retroactive separation date.
An internal MCSO memorandum attributed the two-year delay to an “administrative error” and “clerical oversight,” explicitly noting that McCourt’s initial inactive reserve request form was never actually signed or approved by Woods even
though McCourt was bonded as a deputy during this period.
McCourt told the “Gazette” he remembered receiving correspondence from MCSO about training during the summer of 2025 with instructions about what he needed in order to keep his certificate active, but noted, “I effectively ignored it and took no action following my receipt of it to maintain my law enforcement certification.”
Adding another layer of complexity to the timeline, during this period, McCourt was dating and eventually became engaged to Marissa Duquette, who served as legal counsel for the MCSO.
In a records request to MCSO, the “Gazette” received an email from October 2025, which was sent by Duquette to McCourt’s personal email address. It was almost entirely redacted by the MCSO, citing active litigation.
When McCourt was questioned about potential conflicts of interest— such as whether he signed sealed search warrants for the same agency his fiancée represented—McCourt said they created boundaries. He stated that while they were dating, Duquette would refer warrants elsewhere for review if he happened to be the on-call judge. McCourt further noted that once the couple decided to advance their relationship toward marriage, they agreed it was appropriate for Duquette to resign from her position with the MCSO to avoid any ethical conflicts.
According to judicial canons, a judge must manage who appears in their courtroom. McCourt noted that Duquette never appeared before him as an attorney representing a party to a case. He also said judicial ethics opinions dictate that if a judge is married to a law enforcement agency’s attorney, the judge is not disqualified from presiding over criminal cases
involving that agency but they “need only disclose that relationship in cases where the agency is involved.”
Court records indicate that McCourt signed numerous warrants for the sheriff’s office during the two years he was dating, but not engaged to, Duquette while she served as the sheriff’s general counsel.
McCourt told the “Gazette” that over 22 months he supervised the felony court docket, he had entered orders of recusal in approximately 70 cases in an effort to navigate boundaries.
Judges must avoid the ethical conflicts associated with maintaining ties to former employers. According to a June 2025 Judicial Ethics Advisory Committee Opinion (202512), judges should not associate with their former law enforcement agency to maintain their active certification if they serve as a judge in the same county where that agency is located.
McCourt notably started working in Lake County when he was appointed to the bench but shortly thereafter was reassigned to Marion County and presided over the felony docket.
McCourt indicates he received no financial benefit from the MCSO since he resigned and said he did not participate in any training.
Under the Florida Retirement System, there is an extra “3% per year of creditable service” for law enforcement because they are considered a “special risk class.” By fixing the separation date, McCourt will have qualified for that multiplier only during the few years he held deputy status while simultaneously serving as general counsel for Woods.
As previously reported, another Marion circuit judge, Brad King, also attempted to keep his law enforcement credentials active in a reserve status after being appointed to the bench.
One new element that Gooding mentioned during the traffic discussion was the possibility of parking fees for events. Letting people pay ahead of time for parking, he said, would help alleviate congestion as attendees enter the site. Currently, except for its Winter Wonderland festival, most WEC events have free parking.
OBJECTIONS AND ENTHUSIASM
The first public comment came from attorney Scott McLaren of the Hill Ward Henderson law firm of Tampa, representing Charlotte Weber. His comments highlighted the 16-page objection letter he had sent to the board outlining various concerns about legalities of the changes to the text, the PUD itself and previous agreements.
The Webers have operated Live Oak Stud, a horse farm located just south of SR 40 near the WEC site, for decades and host the annual Live Oak International, a world-renowned horse show, at their farm near SR 40 and Northwest 110th Avenue. Weber has a vested interest in the project, McLaren stated.
“WEC was created to provide relatively low intensity uses somewhat of rural character. This is not that at all,” McLaren said, referencing events with as many as 10,000 people noted in the application documents. “That’s a lot of people; that’s a lot of traffic.”
McLaren noted that noise from event attendees was virtually uncontrollable as opposed to PA systems. He also objected to the changes in the overall development agreement being proposed.
McLaren reminded the board that Weber has a 2016 settlement agreement that forbids any use for the parcel(s) except equestrian estates.
“The county promised not to rezone this property to a more intense use of more than one unit per three acres,” he said.
County Attorney Guy Minter said, “I don’t recall that it said in perpetuity, we would never (agree) that the property owner could never apply for a new rezoning.”
Commission Chair Carl Zalak confirmed that there was “no moratorium” on rezoning or changes to the PUD, adding, “We can argue that in court.”
McLaren countered, “My client complied with her obligations and, from our perspective, we believe
IN THE COUNTY COURT IN AND FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA CIVIL DIVISION CASE NO.: 25-CC-000347 LAKE DIAMOND NORTH HOMEOWNER'S ASSOCIATION, INC., VS. Plaintiff, CARMENZA LOZANO MORENO, Defendant(s). NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that, pursuant to the Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in this cause on March 10, 2026, by the County Court of Marion County, Florida, for the following property described as: Lot 4, Block L, LAKE DIAMOND NORTH, according to the plat as recorded in Plat Book 13, Pages 91 through 104, of the Public Records of Marion County, Florida. will be sold at public auction by the Marion County Clerk of Court, to take place electronically online at www.marion. realforeclose.com, on April 14, 2026 at 11:00 A.M., to the highest and best bidder, for cash, in accordance with Section 45.031(10) of the Florida Statues.
PROPERTY OWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC., whose address is P.O. Box 292965, Davie, FL 33329-2965 and file the original with the clerk of the above styled court on or before 30 days from the first date of publication, whichever is later); otherwise a default will be entered against you for the relief prayed for in the complaint or petition.
WITNESS my hand and the seal of said court at MARION County, Florida on this 9th day of MARCH, 2026. GREGORY C HARRELL As Clerk, Circuit Court MARION County, Florida As Deputy Clerk
Notice is hereby given that in Melanated Kingdom Express Trust is desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of KIYA KENYETTA DANIELS, DANIELS, KIYA KENYETTA Kiya Daniels, Kiya Kenyetta family of Daniels Estate, Kiya El, Healing Open Wounds Foundation, Healing Open Wounds, M L King Express Trust Enterprise. Kiya Kenyetta Daniels intends to register the said names with the Pasco County Clerk of the Circuit Court pursuant
Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the lis pendens must file a claim with the Clerk no later than the date that the Clerk reports the funds as unclaimed.
To be published in Ocala Gazette (Marion) Katherine Martinez, Esq. Florida Bar No. 70879 kmartinez@bushross.com BUSH ROSS, P.A. Post Office Box 3913 Tampa, FL 33601 Phone: 813-204-6492 Fax: 813-223-9620 Attorney for Plaintiff
the county should comply with its (obligations). This would remain low-density residential.”
Busy Shires, director of conservation for the local advocacy group Horse Farms Forever, pointed out, “These changed applications for WEC have nothing to do with horses and equine-related activities.” She also said concerts and noise levels were completely incompatible with the surrounding horse farms and rural lands.
One speaker in opposition said, “If I were buying an estate lot, I would be concerned about backing up to a concert facility.”
Another public commenter, Alli Wade, had concerns about concerts not mixing with horse events well. Additionally, Wade said, the current traffic patterns “can’t handle two horse shows at one time” much less additional events. The signage on Northwest 80th Avenue blocks the exits from the facility right now, she said, making it especially hard for those towing horses and trailers.
Several speakers were in favor of the project, citing their own long commutes to Orlando and Tampa to compete at higher levels in soccer and the benefits of kids learning team sports and having healthy outdoor activities.
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTH
JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA
WILLIAM A. HUDSON, Plaintiff, V. WANDA S. HUDSON, Defendant. NOTICE OF ACTION
Case No.: 2025-CA-2655
To the following Defendant: Wanda S. Hudson Last known address: 3013 Rambling Hills Drive, Morrisville, North Carolina 27560 P.O. Box 473, Morrisville, North Carolina 27560 Current address: Unknown YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that a lawsuit has been filed against you regarding the following described Real Property: Lot 2, of Block 1409, of MARION OAKS UNIT ELEVEN, a Subdivision, according to the Plat thereof, as recorded in Plat Book O, at Pages 214 through 224, of the Public Records of Marion County, Florida You are required to serve a copy of your written defenses to this action, if any, on Daniel J. Raymer, counsel for Plaintiff, whose address is 445 NE 8th Avenue, Ocala, Florida 34470 APRIL 27TH, 2026 on/or before
The original must be filed with the clerk of this court either before service on Plaintiff's attorney or immediately thereafter; otherwise a default will be entered against you for the relief demanded in the Complaint filed herein. Dated this 11th day of MARCH, 2026.
EXTENSIVE DISCUSSION ABOUT CONCERTS
After public comment, the details of each agenda item were reviewed. The board’s review about concerts in the new indoor event center and the outdoor areas generated an hour-long discussion. The proposed number of concerts in the indoor events center and new outdoor areas is eight initially, with the possibility of increasing that number to 24 after review by the county.
Steve Fisher, of PSX Incorporated, a sound engineer and noise expert, said sound can be controlled by, for instance, positioning the stage toward the interior of the site not toward neighbors or the road.
“You can also mitigate sound with technology,” he said, such as using digital signal processing that limits the sound waves from the speakers, essentially steering the noise. Low-end bass sounds are the most challenging to control and can be mitigated by focused, special subwoofers along with limitations for volume control as well to maintain 50-65 decibels. Humans cheering, he said, often generate 80-100 decibels but do so in bursts not steady levels.
The PUD conditions approved included no more than two concerts at one time; the Phase 1 and 2 equestrian estates section shall not
IN THE COUNTY OF THE FIFTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MARION COUNTY
PINE RUN OPERATIONS, INC. Plaintiff vs Case No. 2020-CC-000692 MARK C. MOORHOUSE, TRUSTEE OF THE MOORHOUSE FAMILY LIVING TRUST; et al, Defendants
NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS GIVEN THAT UNDER FLORIDA STATUTES CHAPTER 45, in accordance with the Final Summary Judgment of Foreclosure, in the above-styled cause, the Clerk of Court in and for Marion County, Florida, will sell to the highest and best bidder for cash by electronic sale at www.marion. realforeclose.com, on April 13, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., the following described real property: Lot 9, Block C, Pine Run Estates IV, as per the Plat therof, recorded in Plat Book V, Pages 94 and 95, of the Public Records of Marion County Florida. Parcel Identificaton Number: 35324-003-09; and Real Property Address:10080 SW 98th Terrace, Ocala, Florida 34481. Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the lis pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale. To be published in Ocala Gazette (Marion) Phillip S. Smith, Esq. Florida Bar No. 0999040 litigationgroup@ smithcampbellpa.com Smith Campbell, PA 26736 US Highway 27, Suite 202, Leesburg, FL 34748 Phone: 352-787-1241, Attorney for Plaintiff
be changed; and additional concerts — more than eight per year, either indoor or outdoor — would require county approval.
Discussion among the board members and staff had considerable crosstalk, questions and confusing statements, so much so that even Gooding said he wasn’t sure what the board voted on. A motion to reconsider a previous vote was passed so the board could have further review and clarification about the number of concerts and their locations and handling traffic.
The new outdoor concert areas would be the new soccer stadium, the field behind the new events center and the field behind the current Expo centers.
Shortly after that, Zalak called for a break in the meeting at about 5 p.m. When the board returned, they voted unanimously to approve the PUD and developer’s agreement, allowing for eight concert events and the number of future concerts allowed to be determined by the county after review of previous traffic experiences.
WEC currently hosts a variety of non-equine events on the property, including summer soccer camps, graduation ceremonies, dog shows, various expo and vendor sales events and open field play soccer for adults on select evenings.
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA JENNIFER THOMPSON f/k/a Jennifer C. Nichols, Plaintiff, V. MICHAEL T. NICHOLS, HOWARD R. NICHOLS, HOLLY A. BARMACK, RAY A. NICHOLS, JR., MICHELLE C. BRITT, and LAURIE BAKER f/k/a Laurie Joy Torres, Defendants.
Case No.: 2025-CA-2284
To the following Defendant: Michelle C. Britt NOTICE OF ACTION Last known address: 4777 Grouse Run Drive, Apt. 216, Stockton, California 95204 Current address: Unknown YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that a lawsuit has been filed against you regarding the following described Real Property: Lot 329, Summerglen Phase 3, according to the Plat thereof, recorded In Plat Book 9, Pages 104 through 107, of the Public Records of Marion County, Florida. Parcel Identification Number: 4464-300-329 You are required to serve a copy of your
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City council OKs $1.7 million fleet purchase
The inventory includes sandbagging machines, a pothole patcher, trucks and solar message boards.
By Jamie Berube jamie@ocalagazette.com
The Ocala city Council on March 17 agreed to spend more than $1.7 million to buy 15 vehicles and specialized equipment including two machines that taxpayers may truly appreciate: a pothole patcher and two machines that each can fill more than 1,250 sandbags per hour to help protect property before a storm and reduce the need for manual labor.
According to Ocala Public Information Officer Greg Davis, the acquisitions include the following items and funding sources:
One International 6x4 with 18-yard dump body and one International MV with Bergkamp Asphalt Pothole Patcher for Public Works/Streets, $164,187 and $295,996 respectively; paid from gas tax revenues
Two solar-powered message boards for Public Works/Traffic, $34,988; gas tax
• Two Ultimate Bagger sandbag machines for Recreation & Parks, $93,400; from general fund revenues
• Two International Clam Trucks with Route Assist for Public Works/Sanitation, $522,306; paid out of the enterprise fund
Two John Deere Gators with utility bodies for the Golf division, $27,397; from the enterprise fund
Two Ford F-250 pickups with utility tool bodies and three Ford F-450 chassis cabs with 25-foot crane bodies for Water Resources, $578,056 total; from the enterprise fund
Davis said the expected delivery timeline for the vehicles and equipment ranges from 90 to 270 days. He also noted that repair and maintenance costs for the equipment will be incorporated into the respective department budget.
“This proactive approach ensures that each department is prepared to manage future
upkeep costs, allowing for effective planning and sustained operational reliability,” he explained.
“The two Ultimate Bagger machines, approved via a policy exception as the bestvalue option, can generate more than 1,250 sandbags per hour. This remarkable efficiency ensures that sandbags are available quickly when needed to combat flooding, enabling the city to respond to emergencies with greater speed and reliability. Beyond accelerating sandbag production, the automated process significantly reduces the reliance on manual labor. As a result, city staff are freed up to concentrate on other critical tasks during emergencies, which helps maximize the effectiveness of overall response efforts,” Davis noted.
According to ultimatebagger.com, an Ultimate Bagger is an automated sandbagfilling machine designed for high-volume emergency use that fills bags with sand from a large hopper using dual agitators for consistent flow, compacts the material and automatically sews the bags closed. It includes features like a programmable digital control panel, pneumatic bag clamps and an optional on-board generator for reliable operation during power outages or remote flood response.
Davis described the benefits of other key pieces of equipment.
The Heart of HR
“The versatile International/Peterson Clam-Route Assist is designed with features of a refuse rear loader and a grapple boom loader. This unit is equipped with a specialized debris hopper that enables crews to quickly process small piles of residential waste, and a powerful four-foot grapple claw designed to manage large and cumbersome bulk debris with ease into a 30-yard dump body, enabling crews to transport substantial loads in a single trip. By combining these advanced capabilities, this equipment significantly boosts productivity, expands operational capacity and reduces the number of trips needed for debris removal, ultimately optimizing the city’s waste management operations,” Davis said.
He also elaborated on features of the pothole patcher.
“The International/Bergkamp FP5 Asphalt Pothole Patcher has many advanced features. Its electric hopper maintains asphalt at the optimal temperature throughout the repair process, effectively replacing traditional propane heating methods. This shift not only reduces overall energy costs but also significantly improves safety conditions for work crews by eliminating hazardous fuel requirements.
“The FP5 model enables a streamlined
Fueling the heart of business through people, purpose and potential.
W hen it comes to this year’s Heart of HR conference, “People Purpose Potential” isn’t just a theme — it’s the lifeblood of every thriving organization.
People are the heartbeat: the talent, creativity and resilience that give an organization its strength. Purpose is the rhythm that keeps everything aligned, connecting daily work to a bigger “why” that inspires commitment, belonging and shared direction. And Potential is the pulse of possibility — the capacity to grow, innovate and adapt in a world that demands continuous reinvention.
The fifth annual Heart of HR conference offers a power-packed, oneday experience that brings together business owners, hiring managers, key decision makers and forward-thinking professionals who want to strengthen their people strategy and build workplaces where teams thrive.
The conference will take place Thursday, April 9, at the Circle Square Cultural Center in southwest Ocala. The doors will open at 7:30 a.m. with the program taking place from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
This year the Heart of HR welcomes Ricky Baez Jr., chief HR consultant, college professor and host of the “H” in HR podcast, who said he is “beyond excited” to emcee the event.
“This isn’t just another HR conference; it’s a movement … We have an incredible lineup of experts ready to jump into strategy and networking,” Baez said. “Whether you’re looking to deep-dive into new HR strategies or just want to connect with a community that gets the daily grind, this is where you need to be.”
Baez said the keynote speaker, Curtis Campogni, will “drop a perspective on HR that’s going to change how you see your job forever.”
Campogni, founder of Speak4MC and mastermind behind the CAPE Conversations framework, specializes in helping leaders navigate chaos, inspire real change and find the “superhero” within each organization. He said that’s why his presentation is titled “You Can’t Spell Hero Without HR.”
“I truly appreciate what HR professionals do,” Campogni said. “They handle the difficult conversations, they have to coach people up and then, when they go home, they’re like, ‘This was a tough day, but I know I had to make the decision that was best for my organization.’”
The lineup of speakers will also feature experts on topics that matter to businesses of every size and industry sector. Presentations include Purpose Driven Talent Acquisition, Employment Law Trends, Training Managers to be Managers and Building a Strong Corporate Community.
two-person crew to operate efficiently. This optimization translates into enhanced productivity, allowing Public Works crews to accomplish more repairs with fewer personnel. The FP5’s compressed emulsion spray-injection system is more reliable, does not get clogged and consistently produces smooth highquality results with fewer resources, ultimately strengthening the city’s infrastructure and delivering tangible benefits to the entire community,” he said.
The Ford chassis cabs are outfitted with specialized service bodies and cranes, providing Water Resources teams with the capability to efficiently maintain and repair vital components of the city’s water infrastructure, Davis said.
“These vehicles support a wide range of essential tasks, including well maintenance, sewer line repairs, lift station service and upkeep of treatment plants. By equipping crews with the right tools for the job, these chassis cabs help ensure reliable and effective management of the city’s water systems,” he offered.
All purchases used existing cooperative contracts, bypassing a standalone bidding process, according to Davis.
“Cooperative purchasing agreements offer significant advantages to the city and other local governments by leveraging collective buying power. Through multiagency competitive solicitations, the city is able to access better pricing and more favorable contract terms than would be possible if negotiating independently. This collaborative strategy not only makes the procurement process more efficient but also drives down overall costs, enhances administrative productivity and guarantees access to top-quality products and services while complying with Chapter 287, Florida Statutes, governing the purchase of products and services,” he said.
To learn more, go to ocalafl.gov
The event will include exhibitors and networking, as well as breakfast, lunch and afternoon refreshments. A pre-conference HR After Dark reception will take
place from 5:30-7 p.m. April 8, also at the Circle Square Cultural Center. It will offer attendees a chance to mingle with HR peers, connect with industry leaders and get to know Baez.
The Heart of HR and HR After Dark are presented by CareerSource Citrus Levy Marion and SHRM Greater Ocala. Colen Built Development, LLC, is the conference title and reception sponsor.
Presented
by:
The city of Ocala is purchasing two sandbag machines to help combat flooding. This image may not be an exact replica of the equipment ordered. [Photo courtesy Burcham Baggers]
Three Ford Super Duty F-450 trucks have been ordered by the city of Ocala. This image may not be an exact replica of the equipment ordered. [Photo courtesy Ford Motor Co.]
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People, Places and Things
Lucky ducks ‘Adopters’ and nonprofits win as beneficiaries of the Marion Rotary Duck Derby.
By Susan Smiley-Height susan@magnoliamediaco.com
What do you get when more than 5,000 “adopted” and tagged yellow rubber ducks spill into the waters of Lake Tuscawilla in hopes of crossing the finish line first?
A win for seven lucky adopters as well as the city of Ocala’s Discovery Center, which is a place for kids to learn in a fun, hands-on way, and other local charities supported by Rotary International clubs in Marion County.
The seventh annual Marion Rotary Duck Derby at Tuscawilla Park in Ocala on March 21 saw 5,036 ducks adopted, according to the derby website. Anyone could adopt a rubber duck for $5 or adopt five and get one for free. The ducks were randomly numbered by computer with the adopter’s name and the first few ducks that crossed the finish line earned cash prizes.
The site noted that the prizes were: First place, $2,000; second place, $1,500; third place, $750; fourth place, $400; and three drawings of $250 each.
According to Kay Kelly via email message, the winners were: First Place, Anays Romero Second place, Steve Rudnianyn Third place, Karl Vonrodenstein Fourth place, Phylis Cauthen
• Fifth place, Deborah Pollock
• Sixth place, Barbara Fife
• Seventh place, Phylis Cauthen
The annual derby included vendors, food and beverages, music, games and a kids’ zone.
“It sure was a pretty day and it’s a privilege for our Rotary club to help our community,” said club member Tim Dean via email.
The Rotary International website notes that “Rotary is a global network of more than 1.2 million neighbors, friends, leaders and problem-solvers who see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change — across the globe, in our communities and in ourselves.”
To learn more, go to duckrace. com/Ocala and rotary.org
Hundreds of ducks float across Lake Tuscawilla.
Rick Bourne, Richard Howard Sr., Tim Dean and JR Encencie collect and catalog winning ducks.
Lola Penullar, 2 1/2, blows bubbles from her rubber duck bubble maker.
Winning rubber ducks are collected from Lake Tuscawilla.
Isla Pepper, 7, gets cheered on by Manal Fakhoury as she catches a duck in the fishing pool.
Tim Dean and JR Encencie collect winning rubber ducks.
A firefighter with Ocala Fire Rescue gets hundreds of floating rubber ducks moving across Lake Tuscawilla by spraying them with a high pressure fire hose during the Marion Rotary Duck Derby at Tuscawilla Park in Ocala on March 21, 2026.
Hundreds of rubber ducks are dumped into Lake Tuscawilla during the Marion Rotary Duck Derby.
Rick Bourne and Richard Howard Sr. catalog winning ducks.
Photos by Bruce Ackerman Ocala Gazette
SOCIAL SCENE Community Outreach Day
The Ocala Housing Authority recently hosted an event for members of its public housing communities.
By Susan Smiley-Height susan@magnoliamediaco.com
March 19 was a beautiful day for the Community Outreach Day hosted by the Ocala Housing Authority.
Based at the Deer Run community at 2802 NE 4th Court, Ocala, the event was organized to host approximately 150 families in the authority’s public housing communities, according to Dawn Gurka, FSS coordinator/case manager.
The day’s plans included a visit from Ocala Mayor Ben Marciano, a food truck, games, prizes, contests, vendors, face painting and a chance to visit with tiny equines from Gentle Carousel Miniature Therapy Horses.
The mission of the authority is to provide safe, decent, sanitary and affordable housing to residents of Marion County; provide economic opportunities and housing free from discrimination; and build dynamic communities that will foster personal growth and self-sufficiency, according to its website.
“As CEO of the Ocala Housing Authority, I am incredibly proud of
the impact we made throughout our Spring Break Community Outreach Week, which included multiple events across our communities — from ‘Movie Night Under the Stars’ to playground refurbishments, gardening initiatives and youth activities. While each event played an important role in connecting with our residents, the March 19 block party at Deer Run truly brought it all together,” said Gwendolyn B. Dawson, CEO of the authority.
“That day was more than just a celebration, it was a powerful reflection of what can happen when dedicated staff, committed partners and a supportive community come together with one purpose: to ensure our residents feel seen, heard, valued and loved. Deer Run was filled with joy, resources and meaningful connections, and it represents the standard we will continue striving for as we build stronger, more engaged communities,” she offered.
To learn more, go to ocalahousing.org
Children play in the playground.
Noah Webb, Yancey Ortiz and Dammian Wright.
Jonathan Taylor and LaMeshia Jenkins, of the Early Learning Coalition of Marion County.
Arianna Boby gets her face painted by Crystal Srsich.
Gwendolyn Dawson, CEO of the Ocala Housing Authority, left, and Saundra Bradshaw, right, pose for a photo during the Community Outreach Day at Deer Run in Ocala on March 19, 2026.
Jenna Rovira, Jorge Garcia Bengochea, Moonshadow, Rosa Ortiz, Dawn Gurka and Gwendolyn Dawson.
Caniyah Graham, 17, and Rayniah Gould, 18.
Photos by Bruce Ackerman Ocala Gazette
‘Ambassador Molly’ makes a move
The marble statue of the beloved canine behind Molly’s Law is now on permanent display at the CF Appleton Museum of Art.
By Susan Smiley-Height susan@magnoliamediaco.com
Three years after her demise, Marion County’s canine ambassador, Molly, is still making headlines, including a marble statue in her honor recently being moved to Ocala’s world-class CF Appleton Museum of Art.
The white mixed-breed dog survived life-threatening wounds in 2014 after being stabbed three times in the head and having her skull fractured with a baseball bat. Her accused attacker, Steven Scott Fleming, served time in state prison on three counts of felony cruelty to animals.
In 2017, Molly became the ambassador for Marion County’s animal abuse registry, known as Molly’s Law. Molly’s Law requires that any offender convicted of an animal abuse crime be placed on the county’s registry. The online database allows citizens, pet sellers and rescue organizations to verify they are not placing an animal with an animal abuser. A handful of other counties in Florida adopted similar legislation. Molly died of cancer at her forever home, the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals of Ocala, on Feb. 22, 2023, with her longtime human companion Lilly Baron at her side.
On June 7, 2023, a beautiful white statue of Molly, crafted by awardwinning sculptor Nilda Comas, was dedicated in downtown Ocala.
Comas has a studio in Pietrasanta, Italy, where she can look out over the Apuan Alps mountain range that extends between the Garfagnana, Versilia and Massa Carrara areas. The mountains are the home of Carrara marble, which has been transformed into art masterpieces by sculptors including Renaissance artist Michelangelo and Comas. She
also has a studio in Florida and is a frequent visitor to Ocala, where she has family.
“Ambassador Molly” first sat upon a granite base designed by Alberto Comas, the artist’s brother, in front of the city of Ocala’s Citizen Service Center at 201 SE 3rd St., near the Downtown Market. Over time, a plaque was added to the sculpture. After it was damaged, and repaired by Comas, the city of Ocala erected a fence around the artwork.
As for the move of the Molly sculpture to the Appleton, Baron said, “My board members and I felt as though, when she was slightly damaged, and when we had to put the fence around her, that it took so much away. People couldn’t hug her, couldn’t get pictures with her. So, we thought it was a safe option for her to be at the Appleton and the SPCA of Ocala Animal Rescue donated her.
“She’s there forever. She is a permanent fixture at the Appleton. She’s our hometown hero.”
To learn more about the move, the “Gazette” did a Q&A with Museum Director Jason Steuber.
How did Molly come to the Appleton?
Citizen scientists
A new study shows contributions from highly and casually active participants can be equally valuable.
By Jerald Pinson Florida Museum of Natural History
The word “nemotia” is a neologism, a newly coined term that, in this case, describes the sense of overwhelm and disconnect accompanying the thought that nothing you do will ever make a difference. If this describes your current frame of mind, you might find some comfort in a recent discovery made by researchers at the Florida Museum of Natural History in Gainesville, in nearby Alachua County. It has to do with citizen science, a sort of reciprocal partnership in which large numbers of nonscientists collect data that is used across multiple disciplines, from environmental monitoring and conservation assessments to public health works and city planning. Those who collect data benefit by engaging with, and learning more about, the natural world and scientists have the benefit of acquiring the information needed to do their job.
Many citizen scientists are passionate about the work they do. But, as with most other volunteer opportunities, those who are able to participate the most tend to have an ample reserve of time, money and expertise. Volunteers who lack these resources generally participate less.
But a new study shows that contributions from both groups can be equally valuable and — in some cases — even complement each other. The results are based on millions of observations uploaded to iNaturalist, an online, community based platform where users can help each other identify species, keep track of what they’ve found, participate
in competitions and organize local survey — or bioblitz — events.
The lead author, Erin Grady, undertook the study while pursuing a master’s degree at the Florida Museum. She’s now the engagement coordinator for the USA National Phenology Network, an organization that mobilizes volunteers to document the cyclical ways in which plants and animals change from one season to the next.
“There’s often this idea that we want everyone to be as highly active as possible and collect the most amount of data. We tend to focus on super-users,” Grady said. “Something I got out of our results is maybe we shouldn’t be striving for just that. Every type of observation and way of observing counts, which sounds cheesy, but it’s true.”
Grady became interested in the subject after experiencing her own bout of nemotia. Though she originally intended to study the timing of plant life cycle events and their relationship to environmental variables in graduate school, the ideas she started out with ultimately left her feeling disconnected.
After searching for something she was passionate about, she “fell into this contributary science space, which was the perfect intersection between impactful biodiversity research, community and how people interact with the environment.”
Grady wanted to know whether there were any substantial differences between the type of data that casual and highly active iNaturalist users collect. To find out, she selected a large area in the Southeast United States and downloaded all observations made there since iNaturalist was founded in 2008. This
The CF Appleton Museum of Art was approached by the donor, Lilly Baron, in 2025, with the offer to add the “Ambassador Molly” sculpture to the museum’s permanent collection.
“Ambassador Molly,” created by internationally recognized artist Nilda Maria Comas (American, b. 1953), has become an emblematic figure both locally and statewide. As such, the Appleton was pleased to accept responsibility for the marble sculpture’s long-term care and storage. “Ambassador Molly” will now welcome our 70,000 annual visitors to her forever home.
Why did CF/the museum feel it important to have this artwork on display?
The Appleton has an important collection of art by Florida artists, dating from the 19th century to today. Over the years, Comas has split her time between her studios in Fort Lauderdale and Pietrasanta, Italy, while maintaining close ties with the Ocala area, so her work is a natural
gave her 7.5 million observations taken by roughly 283,000 users. She then organized the observations based on the type of environment they came from, which included categories like protected parks, urban areas and agricultural zones.
iNaturalist observations do not include personal data about the people who made them. So, to get at the socioeconomic side of things, Grady also classified observations based on whether they were made in high- or low-income areas. They split users into travelers and residents based on the proportion of observations they made in the study region compared with those they made elsewhere.
Then they ran the numbers.
“The big picture here is that highly active users are seeking out regions that are biodiversity rich, so they’re more likely than casual users to be observing in natural green spaces or on protected land,” Grady said. “Casual users are more likely to make observations during their daily life, so within urban areas and neighborhoods.”
The tendency for people to observe in a particular type of area results in lopsided, or biased, data that scientists have to account for when conducting their analyses. As a rule, green spaces and protected areas support more biodiversity than urban areas, but it’s hard to know the extent to which this is true when they are sampled unevenly.
This study shows that the bias toward natural areas perpetuated by super users is partly balanced by
“Ambassador Molly” embodies all these thematic goals and inspirational ideals.
Will the statue remain on permanent display?
“Ambassador Molly” will remain on display in the Edith-Marie Gallery through mid-September and then will be relocated and displayed in another gallery in the museum.
Will there be any related programming?
We do hope to host programming with Comas sometime in April, so please check our website calendar at appletonmuseum.org for details once they’ve been finalized.
Online database update
fit for an area of the collection that we are continuing to build.
The museum also has had a longstanding commitment to providing space for nonprofit animal shelters to bring pets looking for forever homes, usually as pop-up adoption events on Free First Saturdays. With these two traditions in mind, it was important to unveil “Ambassador Molly” in the exhibition “My Country, ’Tis of Thee: Celebrating American Art and Design.”
This special patriotic show celebrates the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States of America. The curated selections explore the pivotal role Florida, and its spectacular natural wonders, including those of Marion County, has played as a source of inspiration for artists.
Interwoven throughout the galleries are iconic historical artifacts from north-central Florida that remind us of our region’s shared heritage and its place within the broader American story.
those of casual users.
“We see in the results that you can push back on those biases a little when you’re walking your dog or even in your backyard, because we have fewer observations for neighborhoods.”
Senior author Rob Guralnick, the curator of biodiversity informatics at the Florida Museum, has published multiple studies on the effect development has on biodiversity using iNaturalist data. He emphasized the need for balancing out user biases.
“The place where we’re going to discover the most about the total, global impact of urbanization on animals and plants is through things like iNaturalist, because if we want to learn about how increasing impermeable surfaces or hydrological disruptions or urban heat and light affect living systems, we need replicated data across hundreds of cities. Citizen science is a global phenomena and more and more people are getting involved,” he said.
Observations can be powerful in other ways as well, Grady explained. Low-income areas are often underrepresented in iNaturalist and on other citizen science platforms. This has implications for how much scientists know about biodiversity in those areas. It also affects the potential for positive change.
“One of the great things about citizen science is that communities can collect data and use it to advocate for themselves.”
But if you were to ask Grady or Guralnick about the single most
Marion County’s animal abuser registry, which shows names, address, conviction dates and more, has long been accessible at marioncountyfl.org/aar
On Jan. 1, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement launched its Aggravated Animal Cruelty database at web.fdle.state. fl.us/dexter/about.jsf, which was required by the 2025 Dexter’s Law, and which lists the names of anyone who has been convicted of or has entered a plea of guilty or no contest to cruelty to animal offenses. The state listings show only the names of individuals, but no information about offenses or location.
On Feb. 20, people who abuse animals would be put on a public registry under a bill passed unanimously by the Florida Senate. The bill (SB 1004) will require FDLE to now include information such as aliases, date of birth, race, counties of conviction, charges, case numbers, dispositions, descriptions of any identifying marks and tattoos and a photograph. The list will not only include people who have been found guilty of animal abuse, but also anyone who has pleaded guilty or no contest to the charge.
important aspect of citizen science, they’d tell you it’s something that transcends data altogether. It’s the same thing that cured Grady’s nemotia.
“There’s a real change, I think, within people when they start observing. They feel more empowered, fulfilled, connected — and not just connected with the natural world but connected with this global community of people who care about similar things.”
Guralnick agreed. “There are so many things we have no agency to do anything about. But one thing we do have some control over every day is to observe, to see the world and to report it and to understand what it tells us about where we are and what we’re doing and how we’re living, to focus on things that bring joy, happiness and beauty to the world around us. Just observing the natural world is important. I think that’s an idea that’s going to come up a lot in the next decade.”
The study was published in the journal “Citizen Science: Theory and Practice.” Additional co-authors of the study are Caitlin Campbell of Bat Conservation International and Corey Callaghan of the University of Florida.The study was funded in part by the National Science Foundation and supported by the intramural research program of the United States Department of Agriculture.
To learn more, go to floridamuseum.ufl.edu and inaturalist.org
Jason Steuber, director of the Appleton Museum of Art; Victoria Billig, assistant director; Lilly Baron of SPCA Ocala; and David Reutter, museum registrar; look over the recently relocated statue of “Ambassador Molly” at the Appleton Museum of Art in Ocala on March 23, 2026.
“Ambassador Molly” is on display at the Appleton Museum of Art. The Carrara marble statue of the beloved canine ambassador behind Molly’s Law was sculpted by Nilda Comas.
iNaturalist observation of a mountain hawk-eagle by Jagdish Singh Negi.
iNaturalist photo of a jumping spider by Brian Wright.
iNaturalist observation of golden-eye lichen by Giff Beaton.
Photos by Bruce Ackerman Ocala Gazette
Men empowering women
Local
nonprofit hosts
By Susan Smiley-Height susan@magnoliamediaco.com
In 2010, Chrissy Vickers started the Women of Purpose and Destiny Inc., nonprofit to empower women and teen girls to reach their purpose and destiny. Ten years later, she said she saw a need in the community to help motivate and encourage men and young boys and girls. In 2020, she added a men’s division and, in 2021, a children’s division.
Vickers said the now named Women and Men of Purpose and Destiny Inc. helps connect people to resources in the community, offers mentoring to youth, selfdefense classes, self-development workshops and seminars.
On March 21, the nonprofit hosted the “Waiting to Exhale Men Empowering Women” panel discussion at the HeadquartersMarion County Public Library on Silver Springs Boulevard in Ocala, with four guest speakers.
“It turned out to be an amazing event, with a twist that had distinguished men from the community between the ages 20 to 40 empowering women instead of women empowering women. Many women left the event feeling empowered, motivated and with higher self-esteem,” Vickers said.
She provided this information about the guest speakers:
• Rev. Jason Powell, senior pastor of Transparency
all-male panel in “Waiting to Exhale” presentation in Ocala.
Church. He is the founder of the JPowell Collection, an upscale line of men’s jewelry and accessories and the author of “I Delayed Me.” He is cofounder of the Grace Upon Grace Consulting and the GUG Foundation, a nonprofit organization reaching the community while empowering and uplifting multiple generations. He is president of the When Millennials Gather Network.
• Minister Jordyn Riley is a former Division 1 football athlete, holding a
bachelor’s degree in arts and sciences. He studied business administration in graduate school at the University of Louisiana Monroe. He has an extensive leadership background in strategic marketing and communications. He’s an entrepreneur with a business called Symmetrical Minds LLC, through which his company provides digital marketing services to local small business and owners. He’s a mentor and consultant and recently was appointed
ARIES
March
TAURUS
April
Taurus,
GEMINI
Week of March 27th thru April 2nd 2026
LIBRA
September 23-
October 23
Libra,
SCORPIO
October
SAGITTARIUS
November 23 -December 21
This
CAPRICORN
December
LEO
AQUARIUS
chief operating officer for Women and Men of Purpose & Destiny Inc.
Taurean Williams is a music producer and artist, motivational speaker, mentor and CEO and founder of Win With Words LLC, a content/ media company.
Jordan Tucker is a performance coach, entrepreneur and founder of Elite Athletic Training, a results-driven fitness and development brand built on the principles of elevate, align and transform. With a
background as a Division 1 football athlete and military service member, he has trained hundreds of individuals, from youth athletes to adults, helping them achieve peak performance through disciplined training, mindset development and structured accountability. His work focuses on pushing individuals beyond limitations to unlock physical and mental excellence. He is stepping into the media space as a content creator and storyteller, focused on highlighting impactful individuals, businesses and community narratives.
“The women who attended have asked for a part two this year, so plans are underway for a session with the same panel of male speakers,” Vickers noted post-event.
“For the women who couldn’t attend in person but watched online, they gave great feedback. There were also men in attendance, and they said the event empowered them and helped them to understand women a little more. This the third all male panel I have used for a women’s empowerment event under my nonprofit organization,” she added.
To learn more, find the organization at fb.com/profile. php?id=100064347956010 or call 352-304-3908.
Chrissy Vickers, CEO of the nonprofit Women and Men of Purpose & Destiny Inc., center, is shown with guest speakers, from left, the Rev. Jason Powell, Taurean Williams, Jordan Tucker and Jordyn Riley during the “Waiting to Exhale” event on March 21 in Ocala.
[Submitted photo]
Discover 170 + academic pathways f rom Nursing to Business to Precision Agriculture, Engineering and more
Learn about dual enrollment options for high school students
Connec t with student ser vices like f inancial aid, tutoring, counseling, accessibility, veterans and more
Apply for f ree. Complete a sur vey and get a f ree CF T-shir t!
Government
MARCH 30, APRIL 6, 13, 20, 27
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.
APRIL 7 AND 21
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
Arts
MARCH 12-29
“Steel Magnolias”
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
APRIL 14, 28
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
APRIL 8
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
Ocala Civic Theatre, 4337 E Silver Springs Blvd. Ocala Times vary In 1980s Louisiana, Truvy’s beauty salon is a second home on Saturdays to half a
women with a bond stronger than Aqua Net. When these ladies get together, the hair and humor are always high. And when blushing bride Shelby needs them most, the circle comes together through seasons of abiding friendship, love and support. Get tickets at ocalacivictheatre.com
MARCH 29
The Jersey Tenors
Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE Ninth St., Ocala
3pm The Jersey Tenors bring an electrifying opera and rock mash up blending powerful classical vocals with hits from Queen Elton John and Bon Jovi while celebrating their New Jersey roots with favorites from Frankie Valli Frank Sinatra Bruce Springsteen and others. Learn more at reillyartscenter.com
APRIL 3
Spring Sunset Songs Series
Citizens’ Circle, 151 SE Osceola Ave., Ocala
6:30pm In conjunction with First Friday Art Walk, the series highlights original music across multiple genres. This concert features Perpetual Groove, which has toured across the U.S., internationally and appeared on Jam Cruise. Their latest release, “C’mon. Covers?” EP features reimagined tracks by Peter Gabriel, The Cars, The Go-Go’s and Johnny Cash. For more information, call (352) 4016980 or visit ocalafl.gov/sunsetsongsseries
Steeln’ Peaches: An Allman Brothers Revue Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE Ninth St., Ocala
7:30pm Experience the sound of the Allman Brothers Band as Steeln’ Peaches brings their signature Southern rock energy to the stage. With two sets of timeless classics and fresh interpretations, this sevenpiece tribute delivers an authentic live experience. Learn more at reillyartscenter.com
APRIL 4
Arts Center]
Almost ABBA – The #1 Tribute to ABBA Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE Ninth St., Ocala
7:30pm Step into the world of ABBA with stunning costumes, choreography and audience interaction. Featuring authentic sound, tight harmonies and top-tier musicianship, this high-energy tribute captures the magic and nostalgia fans know and love. Get tickets at reillyartscenter.com
Free First Saturday Appleton Museum of Art, 4333 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala
10am-5pm Explore the permanent collection and special exhibitions and enjoy family-friendly artmaking activities in the Artspace. At 1 p.m., exhibiting artist A.E. Kozeliski will discuss the works featured in her solo exhibition, “Portraits in Passing” and give a demonstration. The Dancing Empanada food truck will be on-site, along with CAMPUS USA Credit Union. Learn more at appletonmuseum.org
Brick City Beer and Wine Festival Citizens’ Circle, 151 SE Osceola Ave., Ocala
2-6pm The event will include food trucks, vendors, a battle of bands, kids soda saloon and 50/50 raffle. It is hosted by the Ocala-Silver Springs Rotary Club and Ocala-Sunset Rotary. Proceeds benefit Interfaith Emergency Services, the Marion County Literacy Council and Kimberly’s Center for Child Protection. Get details at brickcitybeerandwinefest.com
APRIL 7
Cornelius Eady Trio College of Central Florida Webber Center, 3001 S.W. College Road, Ocala 7pm Enjoy poetry and music as part of the Debra Vazquez Memorial Poetry Series. Eady, the recent winner of the Academy of American Poets’ Wallace Stevens Award, will read his original poems backed by two musicians playing jazz and blues. The National Book Award finalist and Pulitzer Prize nominee is the author of eight published volumes including “The Gathering of My Name” and “Brutal Imagination” and is the co-founder of Cave Canem, a nonprofit organization that supports emerging African American poets. He is known for works exploring music, family and the challenges unique to the African American experience. For more information, visit cf.edu/events
Community
MARCH
28
Marion County Day
McPherson Governmental Campus, 601 SE 25th Ave., Ocala
10am-3pm
The event will include food trucks, arts and crafts vendors, musicians, a “Battle of the Drumlines” with musicians from local high schools and an America 250 art contest hosted by Marion County Public Schools. There will be a special dedication ceremony for the Olympian horse statue outside the Marion County Administration building, which highlights the three Marion County Olympians who won medals at the 2022 Olympics in Beijing, China: Erin Jackson, Brittany Bowe and Joey Mantia. To learn more, go to marionfl.org/mcday
Gospel Fest
Mt. Calvary MB Church, 5000 SW College Road, Ocala
Noon-6pm Music, food and fellowship. Bring lawn chairs. To learn more, call (352) 875-0197.
MARCH 31
CF Preview Event
Ewers Century Center, 3001 S.W. College Road, Ocala
5-7pm
The College of Central Florida invites anyone thinking about college to learn about the more than 170 academic pathways CF offers in seven areas of study. Representatives from admissions, financial aid, student services, clubs and organizations will help attendees. High school students and their parents can learn about dual enrollment and Collegiate Academy options to earn college credits while in high school. The $30 application fee is waived for anyone who applies at the event. Attendees who complete a survey will get a CF T-shirt and be entered to win free tuition for one 3-credit undergraduate class at the in-state tuition rate. Additional Preview events will be held at the Jack Wilkinson Levy Campus on Tuesday, April 7, 5-7 p.m., and the Wilton Simpson Citrus Campus on Thursday, April 9, 5-7 p.m. For more details, visit CF.edu/preview.
APRIL 2
College of Central Florida ribbon cutting
3001 S.W. College Road, Ocala
10:30am
The Ocala Metro Chamber & Economic Partnership will join college officials to cut the ribbon for the newly renovated building 19, which will be the home of CF’s award-winning Emergency Medical Services program. Attendees will be invited to tour the classrooms and simulation labs where emergency responders will train with high-fidelity patient simulators and virtual and alternate reality technology. RSVP requested at cf.edu/ ribboncutting or pr@cf.edu
APRIL 9
Heart of HR: People Purpose Potential Circle Square Cultural Center, 8395 SW 80th St., Ocala
8:30am-4pm
The conference will be headlined by Curtis Campogni, a motivational speaker, consultant, author and founder of Speak4MC. It is presented by CareerSource Citrus Levy Marion and SHRM Greater Ocala. The event will be emceed by Ricky Baez, host of the seminal “H” in HR podcast, educator and founder of the HR consultancy, Baezco Learning. The conference is eligible for continuing education credits from SHRM and the Human Resources Certification Institute. General admission is $200 for all-day access to the conference, which includes breakfast and lunch, or $225 to attend both the conference and the Heart of HR After Dark reception. Tickets are available at bit. ly/HEARTOFHR2026.
APRIL 23
Nationwide Days of Second Chances
Revealing Truth Ministries Outreach Christian Center, 7575 SW 62nd Court, Ocala
11am-2pm
Better Together offers job fairs to expand opportunities for individuals facing barriers to employment, which may include incarceration, homelessness, lack of transportation or childcare or gaps on a resume due to unemployment. Job seekers have access to free one-on-one job coaching sessions to review resumes and interviewing skills, with services such as free haircuts and clothing. Learn more at bettertogetherus.org/nwdsc or text (844) 987-3949 to register for an area job fair.
APRIL 24
NAACP Freedom Fund and Awards Banquet
Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place, 1821 NW 21st Ave, Ocala 6pm Florida Senator LaVon Bracy Davis will deliver the keynote address during the NAACP 5114 Marion County Branch’s annual event. This year’s theme, “The Fierce Urgency of NOW!,” reflects the branch’s commitment to advancing civil rights, strengthening community partnerships and championing equity. The banquet celebrates local leaders, recognizes outstanding community contributions and raises funds to support advocacy, youth initiatives and civil rights programs. For tickets, call (352) 351-4567 or (352) 286-5946, email marioncountyflnaacp@gmail. com or secure through Zelle at marioncountyflnaacp@gmail.com or CashApp at $naacpmarioncountyfl
APRIL 25
Financial empowerment event
Central Christian Church, 3010 NE 14th St., Ocala 10am-2pm Connect with financial institutions, apply action steps to own a home, protect assets with life insurance, leave a financial legacy, develop a will or trust. Vendors, giveaways, food. Free to attend. To learn more, call (352)875-4237 or go to ramalservices.org
MAY 2
Kentucky Derby Pub Crawl
Locations below
2-6pm Whether you come for the cocktails, hats or horses, this event promises fun, fashion and philanthropy. Participating locations include Bank Street Patio Bar, Say Taco, Mutiny, Ivy on the Square, Mellow Mushroom, O’Malley’s Alley, District Bar & Kitchen and The Black Sheep on Broadway. Participants begin at Bank Street Patio Bar and finish at The Black Sheep on Broadway for Derby race viewing. Tickets are $50 per person and 20% of proceeds benefit the Marion County Literacy Council. Guests are encouraged to wear Derby hats and stylish attire. Learn more by calling (352) 812-3811.
APRIL 18
The Harp Twins and Volfgang Twins
Sholom Park, 7110 SW 80th Ave., Ocala 3pm gates open, concert 4pm Blending metal, rock, Celtic, Nordic-folk and cinematic music with stunning visuals, primal percussion and Viking spirit. Meet and greet following show. Bring lawn chairs or blankets. Advance registration required at catalog. masterthepossibilities.org/mtp/ course/course.aspx?C=4421A
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Get your Southern rock groove on with Steeln’ Peaches.
[Photo courtesy Reilly
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.
