Flying unfriendly skies
Jumbolair residents escalate legal battle against developer and Marion County.
By Jennifer Hunt jennifer@ocalagazette.com
The legal turbulence over the future of Jumbolair Aviation Estates has intensified. A group of residents, on behalf of the Jumbolair Aviation Estates Owners Association, recently sued developer Robert Bull, his various corporate entities and Marion County.
The new petition, filed by local attorney J. Theodore Schatt, seeks to halt Bull’s ongoing efforts to assert exclusive control over the community’s private runway and develop the surrounding property for commercial and industrial use.
It marks a significant escalation in a long-running legal saga, pulling local government into the fray and joining a highly publicized, ongoing lawsuit filed by actor John Travolta’s trust.
WHY MARION COUNTY IS A DEFENDANT
The inclusion of Marion County as a defendant centers on a zoning and land-use dispute regarding Bull’s expansion plans. According to the petition, on Feb. 25, 2025, Marion County’s director of Growth Services sent a “county letter” to Bull determining that the Jumbolair Private Airport in Anthony is a “conforming use” under the county’s Comprehensive Plan and is best classified as an “industrial use.”
This determination granted Bull “vested rights” to engage in industrial and commercial activity on the property surrounding the runway.
The association alleges that the county’s action was illegal and beyond its legal power. Under the county’s Land Development Code, private airports are listed as a “special use” in agricultural zones, which requires a public hearing and a final decision by the Board of County Commissioners.
See Jumbolair, page A2
Faith beyond the ashes
The congregation at St. Paul AMC church navigates recovery plans following devastating fire.
By Cynthia Wilson Graham Special to the ‘Ocala Gazette’
St. Paul African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church, a historic pillar of faith and service in the Ocala community for more than 134 years, suffered extensive damage to the main sanctuary following a devastating fire that tore through the empty building late Saturday night, May 16.
Rev. Dr. Sha’Leda Mirra, pastor of St. Paul AME Church, said she received a heartbreaking phone call around 10:30 p.m. from a church member who lives across the street from the sanctuary.
“The church is on fire,” the member told her.
“My immediate response was, ‘Lord, have mercy,’” Mirra recalled.
She immediately began asking whether emergency medical services had been contacted before quickly gathering her family and traveling from Columbia County to Marion County. During the drive to Ocala, Mirra continued making calls to confirm emergency responders were on the scene while also notifying members of the church’s leadership team to report to the church property.
Despite the tragedy, Mirra said her faith remains steadfast.
“God has promised that He would never leave us nor forsake us,” she said. “Because we serve a faithful God, we can
walk through trials with hope, knowing that nothing lost is beyond God’s ability to restore.”
The church traces its roots back approximately 134 years, beginning humbly in the 12-foot by 12-foot kitchen of Annie Johnson’s home on the corner of Northeast Seventh Street and Northeast Eighth Avenue. Over generations, St. Paul AME Church evolved into a cornerstone of spiritual life, fellowship, community activism and outreach throughout Ocala and Marion County.
The current sanctuary, built in 1973 under Pastor Sylvester Andrews’ leadership, was severely damaged by the fire. The office suites, classrooms and the fellowship hall are still being assessed for smoke and
structural damage. Although firefighters contained the blaze, smoke and soot spread to other parts of the building, creating unsafe air conditions. As a result, members have not yet been allowed inside, and fire officials and insurance representatives are still investigating the cause. Mirra expressed hope that worship services may soon resume in the fellowship hall and through virtual platforms while the church navigates the recovery process. Members of the St. Paul AME congregation, often referred to as the “SPC family,” are no strangers to adversity, Mirra said.
See Faith, page A8
Adjustments to county employee health plan Commissioners approve
By Jennifer Hunt jennifer@ocalagazette.com
Marion County commissioners approved a funding increase for the county’s self-insured employee health plan on May 19, a move that will raise monthly premiums for workers and cost the county
insurance premium increases to help address budget challenge.
roughly $43 million. The vote addresses a looming budget challenge discussed extensively during an April 7 budget workshop, in which County Administrator Mounir Bouyounes warned that a spike in health care costs could make it difficult to balance the upcoming fiscal year’s budget without making tough policy decisions or
raising the property tax millage rate.
THE FINANCIAL IMPACT
Driven by the county’s selffunded plan consistently paying out $4 million a month in medical and prescription claims, the total estimated group health care cost for FY 2026-2027 is projected to reach $52.75 million.
To help bridge the gap, county employees and retirees still on the plan will absorb a portion of the 19.86% total funding increase, contributing a combined $9.75 million. Effective Oct. 1, employees will see their monthly premiums rise depending on their selected coverage from $2.48 to $8.64 a month for single coverage and $19.58 to $37.86 for family plans.
Even with employees paying a slightly higher share, there is still a budget impact on the county. The remaining $43 million obligation increases the county’s health care allocation per budgeted position from $12,792 to $14,664, representing a 14.63% jump.
The damaged interior of St. Paul AME Church in Ocala is shown following a fire there on May 16, 2026. [Photo courtesy Ocala Fire Rescue/Facebook]
severe conflict of interest. They allege he is breaching his fiduciary duties by using the association’s property to build commercial hangars and increase airport traffic to benefit his own bottom line, which devalues the residents’ homes.
“The press was to serve the governed, not the governors.”
Publisher Jennifer Jean Hunt jennifer@ocalagazette.com
The plaintiffs argue that the Growth Management director unlawfully bypassed this required public process and usurped the board’s quasi-judicial function by unilaterally issuing the vested rights letter. The association is asking the court to declare the county letter void.
INTERTWINED WITH THE TRAVOLTA/HAWKER LITIGATION
This new lawsuit is deeply intertwined with an ongoing legal battle initiated by Hawker Investment Trust, the entity that owns Travolta’s 19-acre Jumbolair estate.
Both the Hawker lawsuit and the new association petition stem from Bull’s alleged attempts to use a 2021 Airport Agreement and a 2022 Amendment to the Master Declaration to consolidate his power, restrict residents’ easement rights and push forward his commercial development agenda.
The Hawker suit: Hawker sued Bull after he used the 2022 amendment to impose a 60,000-pound weight limit on the runway (effectively banning Travolta’s Boeing 737-300) and later implemented “2026 Airport Procedures,” requiring his explicit authorization for any aircraft movement.
The association’s suit: The new petition claims that Bull’s 2022 amendment and his 2026 rule-making authority infringe upon the residents’ “unfettered grant of easement.” Furthermore, the association argues that Bull, who serves as the association’s president, has a
In prior injunction hearings for the Hawker case, Hawker’s attorneys relied on a 2025 lawsuit filed by Robert Moses (one of the lead plaintiffs in this new association petition) to demonstrate that Bull had a history of unlawfully prohibiting runway use.
STATUS OF THE PENDING LITIGATION
The prior litigation between Hawker and Bull remains active and is currently before an appellate court.
In November 2025, Circuit Judge Robert W. Hodges granted Hawker a summary judgment that declared Bull’s 60,000-pound weight limit void and unenforceable because he failed to obtain the required 90% homeowner vote to amend the rules.
In March, Hodges granted Hawker a temporary injunction, immediately enjoining Bull from enforcing his 2026 Airport Procedures and explicitly permitting Hawker to continue safely operating the Boeing 737300 at the airport.
However, on April 13, Bull and his corporate entities filed a Notice of Appeal regarding the temporary injunction. The dispute over the injunction has now been elevated to the Fifth District Court of Appeal, where it remains pending.
As the appellate court reviews the Hawker injunction, the newly filed suit means that Bull will also have to fight a multifront war in the lower courts, this time defending his development plans against the collective weight of the homeowner’s association and zoning approvals he received from Marion County.
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Jumbolair
Continued from page A1
Public Notice
Public Notice
Jumbolair Aviation and Equestrian Estates is shown in Anthony on May 5, 2026. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette file photo]
Five facts about Memorial Day
The annual local ceremony will take place May 25 at the Ocala-Marion
County Veterans Memorial Park.
Staff report
Memorial Day is celebrated at the end of May each year to honor those who lost their lives while serving in the Armed Forces. Memorial Day, the origins of which can be traced to the aftermath of the American Civil War, holds deep historical significance and the following are five interesting facts about the holiday.
1The holiday began as Decoration Day. Before the official establishment of Memorial Day, communities began holding spring tributes to fallen soldiers, decorating soldiers’ graves with flowers to pay respects. In 1868, General
John A. Logan, leader of an organization for northern Civil War veterans, officially proclaimed May 30 as Decoration Day. War.gov says that graves at Arlington National Cemetery continued to be adorned in the same fashion they were back in the 1860s.
2President Lyndon B. Johnson signed Memorial Day into law on June 28, 1968, officially marking Memorial Day as a national holiday. However, two years prior, he signed a proclamation officially declaring Waterloo, New York, as the birthplace of Memorial Day. The town was the first to honor fallen soldiers and has been featuring a formal, community-wide event since May 5, 1866.
3Blooming flowers have a place in Memorial Day history.
Historians believe that the original choice of May 30 for Decoration Day was not due to any specific battle. Rather, it was a day when no particular conflict had taken place and was the time of year when flowers would be in full bloom. So, on May 30, there would be plenty of flowers across the country to decorate soldiers’ graves.
4All fallen veterans were eventually honored on Memorial Day. Many early Memorial Day iterations honored those who died during the American Civil War. After World War I, however, the Memorial Day holiday was expanded to honor all American military
personnel who died during any war.
5Memorial Day once was commemorated on May 30, regardless of the day of the week. In 1968, Congress passed the Uniform Monday Holiday Act, moving Memorial Day to the last Monday in May to create a three-day weekend for federal employees. This change went into effect in 1971.
LOCAL CEREMONY
The annual event in Ocala, this year with the theme, “A Heritage Remembered: A Tribute to America’s Fallen,” will begin at 9 a.m. May 25 at the Ocala-Marion County Veterans Memorial Park at 2601 E. Fort King St., Ocala.
Caring for the tiniest patients
This AdventHealth Ocala physician is helping families stay together by bringing advanced neonatal care closer to home.
Special to the “Ocala Gazette”
When Pratima Toom, MD, arrived in Marion County in July 2020, she stepped into a community on the brink of rapid growth.
Over the next six years, the population would climb from about 377,000 to more than 457,000 — an increase of nearly 20 percent. With more families moving to the area, the number of babies being born locally was rising just as quickly, creating a growing need for advanced neonatal care close to home. At the time, however, the level of care available didn’t match the needs of the community.
The most fragile newborns — those born too early or with complex medical conditions — often couldn’t stay in Ocala. Instead, they were stabilized and quickly transported to hospitals in Orlando or Gainesville, separating families during one of the most critical moments in a baby’s life.
“When I first started here in July 2020, the neonatal unit was only able to offer care for babies from 35 weeks and above and weighing at least 3 lbs. 3 oz.,” Toom said. “Preterm babies needing advanced respiratory support had to be transferred to Orlando or Gainesville.”
Those transfers often happened during the “golden hour” after birth, a time when rapid, specialized care can significantly influence a baby’s survival and long-term health. For parents, it also meant being separated from their newborn during one of life’s most vulnerable moments.
Toom saw both the clinical gap and the human impact. As the county’s only full-time neonatologist, she felt a responsibility to bring more advanced care closer to home so families could stay together while their babies received the support they needed. What followed was a transformation in care.
Recognizing the need for more advanced respiratory treatment, Toom led the creation of an inhaled nitric oxide (INO) program at AdventHealth Ocala. The therapy supports newborns with serious breathing challenges and had not been previously available in a
rural Level II NICU setting like this one. The work required more than a clinical protocol; it depended on an entire care team aligning around a new level of capability.
In July 2025, the team reached a significant milestone with its first successful INO case, marking the first time in the United States that this type of program had been implemented in a rural Level II NICU. Since then, patients have shown meaningful improvement, including reduced lengths of stay. The findings have been submitted to the American Academy of Pediatrics, contributing to broader advancements in neonatal care.
Toom also introduced a peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) program, allowing newborns who need extended treatments, such as antibiotics, to remain in Ocala instead of being transferred elsewhere. For families, this means fewer disruptions and the ability to stay close during critical days of healing.
“Both INO and PICC require a lot of education and training for the team members who care for the babies,” Toom said. “From nurses and respiratory therapists to lab
technicians, pharmacy and radiology, everyone needs to be on the same page.”
Together, the programs have expanded what is possible at AdventHealth Ocala. Today, the NICU can care for babies born as early as 30 weeks gestational age, weighing as little as 2 pounds, 7 ounces, with a continued focus on growing those capabilities.
As care has advanced, so has trust. More families across the region are turning to AdventHealth Ocala, with NICU admissions increasing nearly 35 percent over the past five years.
That growth has been supported by an environment designed for both clinical excellence and whole-person healing. The recently renovated mother-baby unit offers private, calming spaces for families along with features that support connection and peace of mind.
Cameras in both the NICU and postbirthing rooms allow families to see their babies at any time. HALO BassiNests help promote safe sleep, while advanced electronic fetal monitoring supported by AI is designed to improve outcomes. Specialized resources
It is scheduled to include opening remarks from Daisy Diaz, Marion County’s Veterans Services director and County Commissioner Carl Zalak. The invocation will be given by Fr. Don Curran, followed by the posting of the colors by the Marion County Memorial Honor Guard, the presentation of the flag by Carly Jacob, singing of the national anthem by Hannah Stuckey and a special musical selection by the Kingdom of the Sun Concert Band
The event will include a wreath laying, rifle salute, flyover by the Humble Squadron and keynote address.
To learn more, go to marionfl. org and marionvetpark.com
are also available across labor and delivery, OB operating rooms and the OB emergency department.
For Toom, the work is deeply personal.
“As a physician and a mother, helping these sick babies, supporting parents and keeping mothers and babies together is incredibly rewarding,” she said. “It’s more than a career, it’s a calling, and I can think of no better way to give back than by caring for mothers and their babies.”
That calling was evident in a pivotal moment in July 2025 when Toom identified that a newborn, Azario Pillay, had congenital rubella syndrome, an exceedingly rare condition in the United States. Her timely diagnosis ensured the baby received appropriate care without delay, while also helping to prevent potential exposure and spread of infection among healthcare workers and the broader community.
Today, Azario and his mother, Tiayra Naidoo, can visit with the doctor as they return not just to the place where he was cared for but to the physician who helped change the course of his story.
In Marion County, what once required leaving the community can now happen within it — bringing advanced care closer to home for the smallest patients and keeping families together when it matters most.
To learn more, go to adventhealth.com/ locations/hospitals/ocala/services/ mother-and-baby-care
Source: AdventHealth West Florida Division Corporate Communications
Alfred Merrill, a Korean War veteran who served in the U.S. Navy; Ralph Mueller, a Korean War veteran who served in the U.S. Air Force; and U.S. Army Air Corps World War II veteran Howard Mautner salute as the national anthem was performed on Memorial Day 2024. This year’s ceremony will take place at the Ocala-Marion County Veterans Memorial Park on May 25. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette file photo]
Azario Pillay and his mom, Tiayra Naidoo, recently visited Dr. Pratima Toom at AdventHealth Ocala. [Photo courtesy AdventHealth]
Pratima Toom, M.D., is Marion County’s only full-time neonatologist. [Photo courtesy AdventHealth]
The family of U.S. Army PFC Markie T. Sims, from left, Shenita Boone, Kayden Sims and Shakeli Sims, looked on as Bob Levinson saluted a memorial wreath during the Memorial Day ceremony in 2024. PFC Sims was killed in the line of duty while deployed in Afghanistan in December of 2012. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette file photo]
‘Greater love hath no man’
Marion County honors fallen officers at annual memorial event.
By Jennifer Hunt jennifer@ocalagazette.com
Standing before grieving families and rows of uniformed officers the morning of May 14, a chaplain framed Marion County’s annual Fallen Officer Memorial with a line of scripture that captured the cost of service.
“Father, I’m reminded most of all, Lord, that in your word, it says in John 15:13, greater love hath no man in this that a man would lay his life down for his friends,” Chaplain Dean Oliver of the Marion County Sheriff’s Office prayed.
The ceremony at the McPherson Center honored law enforcement officers from Marion County who died in the line of duty, drawing local leaders, officers, families of the fallen and community members. Three Marion County Sheriff’s Office helicopters flew over the crowd.
Lt. Paul Bloom opened the memorial by noting the presence of relatives of fallen officers seated nearby and emphasized that the event was centered on them.
“Today, we are gathered to remember and pay tribute to the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty each year during National Police Week, communities across our nation pause to reflect on the courage, commitment and selflessness of our law enforcement officers,” Ocala Mayor Ben Marciano said.
He traced the observance back more than 60 years.
“This national observance was established in 1962, when John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation that designated May 15 as Peace Officer Memorial Day, and the calendar week in which it falls is National Police Youth for more than six decades. This tradition has united Americans in honoring those who gave their life in service to others,” he said.
Here, Marciano noted, the names read are more than inscriptions.
“Here in Ocala and Marion County, this moment is deeply personal. These are not just names etched in stone. They are neighbors, our friends and members of our family,” he said. “Today, we remember officers who answered the call without hesitation, who ran danger so others could find safety and who upheld their oath with unwavering dedication. Their service represents the very best of what it means to protect and serve.”
He also thanked officers currently serving.
The heart of the ceremony came with the roll call of the fallen.
Belleview Police Department
Lt. Mike Miley read the names and years of Marion County officers who died in the line of duty:
– Burrel Dawkins, 1881
– Jacob Gramling, 1884
– James George Binnicker, 1893
– Bill Hudson, 1908
– Bill Hutson, 1910
– Perry Bostic, 1924
– Henry Gordon, 1924
– A.O. Warren, 1926
– Nathan Hattaway, 1930
– Edward Porter Jr., 1951
– M.O. Tuck, 1955
– R.L. Wooten, 1955
– Curtis Youngblood, 1955
– Roscoe H. Hargett, 1955
– C.M. Starry, 1958
– Bill Rutherford, 1990
– Brian R. Litz, 2004
– Chelsea Richard, 2014
– Jared Forsyth, 2015
“This morning we pause to remember and honor the law enforcement officers from Marion County sacrifice as each name is read. May we reflect on their service, courage and dedication to our community,” Miley said. After the list, he concluded, “though their watches ended, their sacrifice will never be forgotten.”
At Bloom’s invitation, the Ocala Christian Academy choir then sang “Amazing Grace,” a hymn long associated with law enforcement memorials.
As the ceremony drew to a close, Ocala Police Chief Michael Balken said the annual
observance is more than a date on the department calendar.
He called the memorial “one of the most important traditions that we observe.”
Balken emphasized that each name represents a full life.
“Every name spoken here today carries with it a story of courage and service. Behind each name was a life that was dedicated to something greater than personal comfort and safety,” he said. “They were sons and daughters who were loved by their parents. They were husbands and wives who shared dreams and built lives with those that they cherished. They were mothers and fathers whose greatest pride was often not the badge that they wore but the families that they love. They were friends, mentors. They were our friends. They were mentors, neighbors and trusted partners.”
Balken also reminded officers of the responsibilities they shoulder.
“For the law enforcement officers gathered here today, this memorial carries another meaning. It’s a reminder of the responsibility that we carry each time we put on the uniform or pin on the back,” he said. “We know the risks of this profession. We understand that every shift carries with it uncertainty, and yet, just as we honor those we honor today, we continue to answer the call.”
At the end of his prepared remarks, Balken departed from his script to criticize the size of the crowd.
“That’s my prepared speech. I do want to say one last thing that I’m probably going to regret. I’ve been wanting to say this for the last five years as chief, we have got to do better as leaders,” he said. “Mayor, myself as chief, Ryan Chamberlain – we have 71,000 people in the city of Ocala alone, this field back here should be full. This is an embarrassing turnout.”
MSG Jesse Lockhart of the Marion County Sheriff’s Office salutes with other officers as taps is played during the Fallen Officer Memorial ceremony at the Fallen Officer Memorial at the McPherson Governmental Complex in Ocala on May 14, 2026.
Students with the Ocala Christian Academy choir walk past memorial markers for Deputy Brian Litz, who was killed in the line of duty on Feb. 7, 2004, and Jared Forsyth, who was killed in a tragic accident during a routine firearms training session at the Lowell Correctional Institution gun range on April 6, 2015.
Family members of fallen officers listen during the ceremony.
Quiana Arnett and Charles Hefner, of the Florida Department of Corrections, carry a memorial wreath.
Officers with the Ocala Police Department salute as the national anthem is played.
Ocala Police Department recruits honor fallen officers.
Marion County Fire Rescue Chaplain Josh Deese says the invocation as Lt. Paul Bloom of the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, right, bows his head.
Marion County Sheriff’s Office Air Units perform a flyover.
Law enforcement officers with the Marion County Sheriff’s Office stand together.
A large American flag flies between ladder trucks for Ocala Fire Rescue and Marion County Fire Rescue.
Ocala Police Chief Mike Balken speaks during the ceremony.
Chaplain Dean Oliver of the Marion County Sheriff’s Office leads people in prayer.
The Multi-Unit Honor Guard presents the colors.
Photos by Bruce Ackerman Ocala Gazette
Founder’s Day festivities
The town of Anthony honored its 150th anniversary with a festive community celebration.
By Susan Smiley-Height susan@magnoliamediaco.com
Anthony Community Park and the adjacent Anthony Woman’s Club were abuzz with activities on May 16 in commemoration of the town of Anthony’s 150th anniversary.
The Founder’s Day: Rails to Ranches, 150 years of Anthony, Florida, event was hosted by the Anthony Historical Society. It drew numerous people eager to learn more about the small town’s history and visit vendor booths, hear live entertainment and enjoy socializing and playing games under blue skies and a warm sun.
Inside the woman’s club building, historic displays included photographs, albums filled with memorabilia and a set-up of the town showing its early railroad days, erected by members of the Ocala Model Railroaders’ Historic Preservation Society.
Sitting at a long table perusing some of the documents were Hilary Anthony, from Oregon, and her sister Beth Anthony Plough, from Lakeland, who are descendants of Col. E.C. Anthony, for whom the town is named.
Anthony can trace its beginnings to the mid-1800s, when a migration of settlers from South Carolina into Marion County began. Among those pioneering families were the Leitners, who settled in several communities within Marion County. According to Annabelle Leitner, who lives with her sister Nancy on the family’s pioneer heritage farm in Shiloh, in northwest Marion County, and who is a noted local historian, the name of Anthony can be traced to Col. E. C. Anthony from Muncie, Indiana.
“Jacob Leitner and his wife Charlotte Souter Leitner were my great-greatgrandparents. Jacob is the one who, according to Leitner family tradition, sold one of his plantations to Col. Anthony for what was to become Anthony Place, then later Anthony,” Leitner explained.
“We are the second granddaughters of Edwin Clark Anthony, who left Muncie, Indiana, in 1867 and came down here and bought some land from Jacob Leitner. And then his son, Samuel, also came down here and bought some land. Edwin bought land from several people, here and in Sumter and in Polk (counties). He bought a total of about 1,500 acres,” said Hilary Anthony.
“Samuel set up a boarding house here and Edwin kind of came back and forth. They invested in citrus; they invested in phosphate. Edwin was a real horse aficionado, like his brothers, into harness racing. Edwin was the only child of a very rich man up in Muncie and was kind of living large,” she added.
“Edwin’s daughter, Florence, married Henry Swain and his brother was Earl Swain, and those descendants are close to the Swains who are still here. So, Samuel was our great-grandfather and he is buried here in the cemetery. He had four children. He died in 1915, as did Florence. All of Samuels’ kids were out of Florida by 1924. Our grandfather was the last to leave after he lost money on a celery deal and took his family, including our dad, and moved to Houston,” Hilary explained.
“Then dad moved back here when we were little, after he had been in the service. So, we grew up knowing about Anthony and visiting the cemetery and the church. Dad was very involved with the Anthony Methodist Church in the 1970s. He attended the homecoming. We don’t have a really tight relationship with the town but definitely have
interest in it. Dad was a real family history buff and liked the town a lot; he was very proud of it. He and our mom are buried here, so it’s just a special thing,” she offered.
Outside in the park, there were numerous booths set up, including those manned by political hopefuls, churches, nonprofits and other organizations.
“We had a great and receptive turnout. There were so many who came from near and far. The crowd was considerate of others around them. The politicians were friendly and informative about what they are ready to do if they get elected. Some made a visit to every vendor making themselves known and answering questions,” said Priscilla LewisSwinton, a member of the historical society and the descendant of families in the nearby communities of Mt. Olive, Sugarhill and Irving.
“I found out that I was related to some people I have known throughout my life. I enjoyed some of the music and getting to see people I had not seen since high school. The highlight of my day was giving a little boy one of my wooden crosses that I had for decoration that he really, really, wanted, and also sharing my blessed prayer clothes with those who desired them and praying for those who passed by my table and asking God to let the day be safe and good for the future,” she added.
Janet Mitchell-Silverhawk, whose family settled in the area pre-1845 and who is of Muskogee and Cherokee and Shosone descent, also is a member of the Anthony Historical Society. She greeted visitors at the Mt. Olive African Methodist Episcopal Church booth, along with Geraldine Hamilton and Trisha Neasman.
“We are all descendants of families of Irving,” Mitchell-Silverhawk noted. “We had a fantastic turnout and hope to do this again.”
Bertha Krietemeyer Flynn, who was raised in Anthony, is a descendant of Jacob Leitner and president of the Anthony Historical Society. She and Shelia Castro, vice president of the society, worked for nearly two years to organize the Founder’s Day event. On Saturday, both were busy greeting guests and talking about their beloved town.
Flynn later said of the event, “I am very pleased with the turnout and hope that everyone had a good time and learned a little bit of Anthony history.”
“I want to thank the Anthony Women’s Club and the Anthony Community Park for their help in making this event a success. I also want to thank my daughter, Heather Flynn, for organizing all the vendors and making sure they were set up and happy. Additionally, thank you to everyone who attended our planning meetings
make the event run so smoothly,” she added.
As for why it’s important to preserve local history, Castro said in a previous “Ocala Gazette” feature article, “So many towns fade away, but Anthony is 150 years strong and
we’d like to keep going.”
To learn more, email anthonyhistoricalsociety@gmail.com or find them on Facebook.
and helped
Hilary Anthony and Beth Anthony Plough are descendants of Col. E. C. Anthony, for whom the town of Anthony is named. They attended the May 16, 2026, Founder’s Day: Rails to Ranches – 150 Years of Anthony celebration in Anthony.
Geraldine Hamilton, Janet Mitchell-Silverhawk and Trisha Neasman, all descendants of families from the Irving community, adjacent to Anthony, had a booth at the Founder’s Day event in Anthony Community Park on May 16.
Judy Priest Deen, Bertha Flynn (seated), Shelia Castro and Christina Scott, with the Anthony Historical Society, were on hand for the Founder’s Day celebration at the Anthony Woman’s Club and Anthony Community Park on May 16, 2026.
Keith Getsee with the Ocala Model Railroaders’ Historic Preservation Society had two displays of the town of Anthony set up inside the Anthony Woman’s Club during the Founder’s Day event.
Photos by Susan Smiley-Height Ocala Gazette
By Susan Smiley-Height susan@magnoliamediaco.com
E-ONE EXPANSION
E-ONE, Inc. kicked off a $23.5 million expansion of its aerial manufacturing campus on May 12 with a program and groundbreaking by company executives, area firefighters, local dignitaries and members of its dealer network.
The 80,000 square foot expansion will increase the company’s aerial production capacity by approximately 35 percent and help reduce lead times for E-ONE’s products, the news release noted. The project is expected to add 100 new jobs in Ocala, adding to E-ONE’s current workforce of 1,134 employees.
Benefits of the expansion, according to the release, will include expansion of expansion of the existing assembly, fabrication and paint facilities, as well as new construction to support ladder manufacturing and assembly operations.
Construction is expected to be completed by Spring 2027 and will be done in four phases; starting with expansion of the current building, construction of a new paint facility and construction of a new four-bay test pit.
CITY DEPARTMENT NAME, LOCATION CHANGE
The city of Ocala’s Community Development Services Department has changed its name to Community Housing Services.
“This change better reflects our focus on housingrelated programs and our continued commitment to strengthening neighborhoods, expanding access to resources and supporting residents throughout our community. In addition, we have moved to a new location to improve accessibility and better serve the public. Our team remains dedicated to providing the same services, guidance and support you have come to rely on, now in a more centralized community space,” the news release stated.
The new office is at the Lillian Bryant Community Center, 2200 NW 17 Place, Ocala.
To learn more, call (352) 629-8390 or email citygrants@ocalafl.gov
GFOA TRIPLE CROWN
The Marion County Clerk of Court and Comptroller’s Office has earned the Government Finance Officers Association’s (GFOA) Triple Crown for the second consecutive year, recognizing excellence in financial reporting and budgeting.
The honor includes awards for Marion County’s Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) and Popular Annual Financial Report (PAFR) for the fiscal
Hyear ending Sept. 30, 2024, as well as its budget for the fiscal year beginning Oct. 1, 2025, according to the press release.
The ACFR received GFOA’s Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting, the highest recognition in governmental accounting, for the 40th consecutive year.
To view reports, visit marioncountyclerk.org/ departments
EQUINE INDUSTRY VISION AWARD
orse Radio Network founder Glenn Hebert of Ocala was honored as the 2026 Equine Industry Vision Award Winner at the AHP Equine Media Conference in Lexington, Kentucky, on May 15.
“Wow, podcasting has come a long way. From 18 years ago when all we did was explain what a podcast was to winning the AHP Equine Industry Vision Award. This honor truly belongs to the entire Horse Radio Network community: our devoted listeners, talented hosts and generous sponsors. Podcasting’s strength lies in its personal and impactful connection with the audience, and we are grateful to have played a role in fostering its growth
TEACHER HONORED
HCA Florida Ocala Hospital and HCA Florida West
Marion Hospital, with the Public Education Foundation of Marion County, have announced that Cori Feo of Osceola Middle School in Ocala is the latest recipient of the “Thank a Teacher” award.
Feo teaches digital information technology and computer applications. She was nominated by one of her students.
“Mrs. Feo helped me learn about computers and how to touch-type properly. She is very nice and helpful when things get
since podcasting began. The community we’ve built is extraordinary. We also extend our gratitude to AHP for championing the many diverse voices within equine media,” Hebert was quoted as saying in the news release.
Hebert founded the Horse Radio Network in 2008. His flagship show, Horses in the Morning, which he co-hosts, has produced thousands of episodes and is recognized as one of the longest-running daily podcasts of any genre. His work has introduced countless new audiences to the horse world while providing education and entertainment to seasoned equestrians alike, the release noted.
difficult,” the nomination said. “Even though she isn’t my elective teacher anymore, she is still my favorite teacher that I have had this year and I think she is awesome.”
“Cori’s nomination was extra special because it came from a student, and that is a testament of the positive impact she makes in the classroom,” said Meghan Magamoll, executive director of the Public Education Foundation of Marion County, in the news release. Learn more at pefmc.org/ thank-a-teacher
Mike Virnig, president, Specialty Vehicles segment at Terex Corporation, fourth from left, was joined other officials and dignitaries for the May 12 E-ONE groundbreaking event. [Photo courtesy E-ONE]
The Marion County Clerk of Court and Comptroller’s Office was honored during a recent Marion County Board of County Commissioners meeting for GFOA achievements. [Submitted photo]
“Ocala Gazette” Q&A with candidates for County Commission
This is the eighth week in a nine-week project to ask questions of and hear responses from those seeking office. Staff report
There are three candidates running for the District 2 County Commission seat (Matthew Cretul, Mike Crimi and Brien Weidemiller) and five for the District 4 seat (Randall Alvord, Jeff Bairstow, Clint Barkley, Wanda Wimberly Lasher and Sherri Meadows). NOTE: Former candidate Anthony Barriner-Massa has withdrawn from the race, according to votemarion.gov
The “Gazette” will email a different question each week to all of the candidates, for a total of nine questions over nine weeks. The candidates are given a week to respond in writing and we do not edit their answers. The answers from those who chose to participate are presented below in the order in which they were received.
QUESTION EIGHT: Florida law requires local governments to ensure infrastructure keeps pace with development through concurrency and impact fees. Do you believe Marion County’s current policies adequately require growth to pay for itself? If not, what changes would you support?
Florida law gives counties tools like impact fees and growth management policies to help infrastructure keep pace with development. Impact fees are onetime assessments on new construction intended to help offset the impacts growth places on roads, schools, public safety and infrastructure.
Marion County suspended impact fees during the recession, later reinstated them at lower levels and experienced significant growth during years of reduced collections. As a result, the county is now working to catch up with growing infrastructure
LOOKING TO THE EMPLOYEE CLINIC FOR RELIEF
To combat these rising costs, county leaders are urgently pushing employees to alter their health care habits, primarily by utilizing the recently opened Employee Health Clinic instead of more expensive freestanding emergency rooms for non-emergencies.
“We need our employees to understand when is the appropriate time to go to the ER versus a quick-care type environment,” Assistant County Administrator Amanda Tart said during Tuesday’s board meeting.
With the county heading into the summer open enrollment period,
demands. That has created growing pains many residents experience every day through traffic congestion, crowded schools and pressure on public services. When government falls behind growth, the costs eventually show up in higher home prices and increased pressure on taxpayers.
I support requiring infrastructure planning and cost projections earlier in the development process; improving coordination between the County Commission, School Board, transportation planners and emergency services; and conducting regular impact fee and infrastructure studies so we are planning ahead instead of constantly playing catchup.
We must respect private property rights while also planning responsibly, protecting taxpayers and keeping Marion County affordable and sustainable for future generations.
—Sherri Meadows ***
Growth should pay a fair share of the infrastructure impact it creates, especially roads, public safety, water capacity and schools but I also believe Marion County has to be careful not to push all costs onto existing residents through higher taxes and declining quality of life.
I think Marion County has made progress with concurrency requirements and impact fees, but the current system still leaves gaps. Too often, infrastructure improvements lag behind development and residents feel the effects through traffic congestion, overcrowded roads, longer emergency response times and strain on public services.
I would support several changes:
• Stronger enforcement of concurrency so major developments cannot move forward unless transportation, utilities and public safety capacity are truly available or fully funded.
Regular independent reviews of impact fees to ensure they reflect actual infrastructure costs and inflation.
More targeted infrastructure agreements requiring large
Tart noted that her team is launching a targeted education campaign across all departments and constitutional offices. The goal is to inform employees about the financial benefits of the clinic, which is free to employees and their spouses, and provide resources so they know exactly where to go for care.
Tart had cautioned during an April budget meeting, however, that patience is required because the $3.1 million clinic has only been operational for a few months. She said it will likely take until its second year of operation before the preventative care and diversion from ERs translates into tangible budget relief for the county.
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION File No. 2026-CP-1083 IN RE: ESTATE OF ROBERT J. ROZEWICZ, Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the Estate of ROBERT J. ROZEWICZ, deceased, whose date of death was March 16, 2026, is pending in the Circuit Court for Marion County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 110 NW 1st Ave. Ocala, Florida 34475. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative's attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent's estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. The personal representative has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent's death by the decedent or the decedent's surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss. 732.216-732.228, Florida Statutes, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under s. 732.2211, Florida Statutes. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent's estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE,
developments to contribute directly to road improvements, turn lanes, water infrastructure, fire protection and other necessary upgrades tied to their projects.
• Better long-range planning so infrastructure is built proactively instead of years after growth occurs.
• Protecting rural areas by directing higher-density growth toward areas where infrastructure already exists or can be expanded efficiently.
At the same time, we must keep Marion County business friendly. Responsible growth is important to our economy. The goal is balance, planning, control and encouraging investment and job creation while making sure existing residents are not left paying the bill for unmanaged growth.
—Mike Crimi ***
I would start by requiring that any new development be reviewed by looking at projected growth in the area. We have lots of data at our disposal that can help us plan for future expansion of infrastructure and public safety in a proposed area.
For example, if a parcel of land is vested and allowed to proceed with development, those plans should account and provide for future utility easements and road expansions. The county needs to be more forward thinking in this regard and led by a County Commission with the ability to impose this forward-looking planning.
As far as school concurrency goes, the state legislature in 2011 passed the Florida Community Planning Act, which basically made it overburdensome for local leaders to use school concurrency/capacity as a factor in approving new development.
We are under attack by the Florida legislature, in some regard, by all the new laws passed like SB 180, HB 399 and most recently SB 686 that is stripping away our ability of “home rule” and not allowing local citizens and leadership to guide development in our community. Increasing impact fees only add to our unaffordability crisis.
—Randall Alvord
IN THE COUNTY COURT OF THE FIFTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA FOUNTAINS AT GOLF PARK, INC., VS. Plaintiff BENJAMIN BLEVINS, TRICIA LEE BLEVINS, UNKNOWN TENANT #1, and UNKNOWN TENANT #2, Defendants. CASE NO.: 2025-CC-2506 NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to Final Summary Judgment of Foreclosure, entered in Civil Case No. 2025-CC-2506 of the County Court of the 5th Judicial Circuit in and for Marion County, Florida, wherein, FOUNTAINS AT GOLF PARK, INC. is the Plaintiff, and BENJAMIN BLEVINS, TRICIA LEE BLEVINS, UNKNOWN TENANT #1, and UNKNOWN TENANT #2 are the Defendants, I, Clerk of Court, Gregory C. Harrell, will sell to the highest and best bidder for cash AT WWW.MARION.REALFORECLOSE.COM, AT 11:00 A.M. on July 7, 2026, the following described property as set forth in said Final Summary Judgment of Foreclosure, to-wit: Lot 46, Block A, of FOUNTAINS AT GOLF PARK, according to Plat thereof, as recorded in Plat Book 9, Pages 7 and 8, of the Public Records of Marion County, Florida. Marion County Property Appraiser Parcel ID NO.: 3751-001-046 Physical Address: 6315 SE 96th St., Belleview, FL 34420 ANY PERSON CLAIMING AN INTERST 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 BEFORE THE CLERK REPORTS THE SURPLUS AS UNCLAIMED. If you are a person with a disability who needs any accommodation in order to participate in this proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance. Please contact the ADA Coordinator; 110 Northwest 1st Avenue, Ocala, Florida 34475; (352) 4016710
*** Marion County is catching up after a decade of artificially low impact fees, but there’s still more that can, and should, be done. While the county did raise transportation impact fees last year, they started at only 70% of the actual calculated impact, rising to 100% over four years beginning last October.
These are real improvements, but they come after years of under-collection. And even at full rates, the county’s own transportation study estimates a $500M+ funding gap between 20-year infrastructure needs and projected sales tax revenues, so impact fees alone won’t get us there.
Impact fee and sales tax revenues can’t be used for operations costs, meaning the personnel expenses that come with growth have to be funded somewhere else. On top of that, portions of Marion County’s comprehensive plan were recently sent back by the state as null and void, partly because level-of-service standards were in the land development code rather than the comprehensive plan, where they belong, and SB 180 restrictions.
While state law sets a high bar that Marion County may not clear to accelerate the impact fee phase-in beyond what the county has already adopted, other tools are underutilized. The county should more systematically deploy proportionate share requirements, special assessments and developer agreements to close the infrastructure gap. Resolving the comprehensive plan’s concurrency deficiencies should be treated as an immediate priority, not a procedural afterthought.
So, while growth is paying more of its way than before, it might not be enough for any substantial relief to be seen without additional actions.
—Matthew Cretul
These candidates did not respond by the stated deadline of 5 p.m. May 19: Brien Weidemiller, Jeff Bairstow, Clint Barkley and Wanda Wimberly Lasher.
“We are a favored and resilient people who have seen the hand of Jehovah Jireh over these past 134 years,” she said. “While we mourn the loss of our sanctuary, we know the same God who has provided for us through every season will continue to provide for us now. We do not grieve as those who have no hope.”
Throughout its long history, St. Paul AME Church has served as much more than a place of worship. The church once housed a school and has long functioned as a center for education, voter registration, civic empowerment, advocacy, leadership development, discipleship training and health-related seminars and workshops.
The church also supports the homeless and other vulnerable community members through outreach ministries such as food pantry programs, domestic violence shelters and Angel Tree efforts for children of incarcerated parents.
For many members, the loss extends far beyond bricks and mortar. Mirra described the sanctuary as a sacred space filled with generations of memories.
“It is where many were baptized, confirmed in ministry, married and laid to rest,” she said. “It is more than a building. It is a physical embodiment of our collective history, faith and legacy.”
Much of what was lost inside the sanctuary carried deep sentimental value. Many items had been donated over the years as sacrificial gifts from church families and supporters, including stainedglass windows, pews and newly installed technology screens donated by the pastor’s family.
“Everything in the sanctuary represents sacrifice and love from generations of families,” Mirra said.
The pastor says they will not fully know the next phase of recovery until fire investigators and insurance officials complete their assessments.
“We have not been able to go inside because of the air quality concerns,” Mirra explained. “Right now, we are waiting on the full assessment before determining our next steps.”
Even during the devastation, Mirra said the church has received community support offering assistance and encouragement.
“We certainly appreciate the support,” she said.
us beauty from ashes, the joy for our mourning will be celebrated.”
“At this moment, we are asking people for prayers and to sow financially into our recovery,” Mirra said. “We are believing God for the rebuilding and restoring of our sanctuary.”
A student of scripture, Mirra said she continues to draw strength from biblical examples of restoration and renewal.
“I have seen throughout the word of God how He restores again and again,” she said. “God has done it before, and He can do it again.”
Even as smoke lingers in and around the church, its legacy lives on through the generations of people who built St. Paul AME Church on Tucker Hill. Although the road to restoration may be long, the congregation, with the community’s support, will continue to build on the “solid foundation” leaving a legacy that flames cannot destroy.
To learn more or help with recovery efforts, call (352) 247-2383, email stpaulameocalapastor@gmail.com or donate through Givelify (giv.li/s5elbn), CashApp ($StPaulOcala) or by mail to St. Paul AME Church Ocala, PO Box 2223, Ocala, FL 34478.
Church vandalized following fire
By Susan Smiley-Height susan@magnoliamediaco.com
Following the devastating fire at St. Paul African Methodist Episcopal Church in northwest Ocala on May 16, the church’s pastor, the Rev. Dr. Sha’Leda Mirra, on May 19 posted on social media that she would hold a press conference at 3 p.m. May 20 in response to acts of vandalism.
“As the members of St. Paul African
Methodist Episcopal Church in Ocala continue to mourn the devastating fire that occurred just days ago, we now face an additional act of harm against our sacred space,” she wrote in the post, adding that on Tuesday, at approximately noon, church officers had arrived on the campus along with officials from Ocala Fire Rescue as they continued their investigation into the fire.
“During that time, it was discovered that an individual or individuals had unlawfully entered the church building and vandalized the
property. Racial slurs and threatening language were found outside and inside the church,” Mirra wrote in part.
Church leadership notified Episcopal leadership and the Ocala Police Department launched an investigation into the incident. The FBI also has been notified, the post noted.
During the press conference on Wednesday, which was live streamed on social media, Mirra was joined by a number of religious leaders from the community and beyond.
“I stand here today with a heavy heart, full of emotion, but also with an unshakeable faith. The fire alone was enough to shake us, to test
us, but today we stand in the wake of something more painful. What was already a moment of mourning has become moral outrage,” she said in part. We condemn without hesitation every act of hate, racism, sexism and violence, she told those gathered.
“We stand here today grieving but not defeated. We are resilient,” she offered. “St. Paul is a living testimony that has endured through generations. We will rebuild. We will rise. We will continue to be a place where all are welcome, all are loved and all can encounter the presence of God.”
A close look at the damaged interior of St. Paul AME Church in Ocala following a fire there on May 16, 2026. [Photo courtesy Ocala Fire Rescue/Facebook]
Vandalized signage at St. Paul AME Church. [St. Paul AME Facebook image]
The Rev. Dr. Sha’Leda Mirra speaks during a press conference in front of St. Paul AME Church in Ocala on May 20, 2026. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette]
This image shows St. Paul AME Church congregation members inside the sanctuary in October of 2025. [Photo courtesy St. Paul AME Facebook page]
St. Paul AME Church pastor, Rev. Dr. Sha’Leda Mirra, is shown with the late longtime member Mary Sue Rich, who served for decades as an Ocala City Councilwoman. [Photo courtesy St. Paul AME Facebook]
Less trash equals ‘good problem’
The
annual Rainbow River Conservation River Clean Up Day found fewer items this year.
By Andy Fillmore andy@ocalagazette.com
A“Woody” plastic toy action figure from the “Toy Story” movie, minus his signature cowboy hat, and an underwater scooter, were among the items dredged up during the 2026 Rainbow River Conservation River Clean Up Day on May 15, 2026, near Dunnellon.
By all accounts, the trash haul from the Rainbow River appears to dwindle every year. All of the materials collected on Saturday covered only the floor of a small utility trailer, as opposed to overflowing piles in some earlier years.
“That’s a good problem,” one unidentified participant commented about finding less trash.
The “Woody” figurine, a dual motor underwater scooter that can tow a diver and other materials like a cell phone ,bottles and plastic containers — which are not allowed on the river by county ordinance — were
gathered by about 100 volunteers who left from Rio Vista Park just north of Dunnellon and scoured the river south of Rainbow Springs State Park.
RRC President Jerry Rogers praised a “good turnout.” He said the River Clean Up Day has been held since at least 1994.
RRC, a volunteer operated nonprofit, was established in 1962 with a goal of protecting the Rainbow River and its ecology, according to rainbowriverconservation.org
The group has developed Blue Run Park and worked with “the city, water management district and state DEP on measures to enhance the ecosystem,” the website states.
“RRC works for changes in state environmental policy to better protect flows and water quality,” according to the website. Its initiatives include building and maintaining 47 wood duck boxes on the river.
A representative of the Office of Resilience and Coastal Protection of the Florida Department of Environmental
Protection was on hand for the event. The representative said the office worked with RRC to establish an aquatic preserve along the river.
The website floridaaquaticpreserves.org lists the Rainbow Springs Aquatic Preserve as 164 acres and states the 5.7 mile long Rainbow River flows to the Withlacoochee, which empties into the Gulf of America.
Seven of the 11 members of the Marion County Sheriff’s Office Underwater Recovery Team and about two dozen divers with Florida Springs Scuba of Williston joined the cleanup. Volunteers used boats and kayaks.
MCSO Deputy Matt Hooper said the recovery team participating in the annual event is an opportunity for “training and to connect with the community.”
Hooper said the apparent lesser amount of trash is a “good thing.” A member of the team recovered the “Woody” toy.
Bill White, former mayor of Dunnellon, recognized volunteers
for special categories of collected items, including Madison Trowbridge for the “most unusual item,” the underwater scooter.
White accepted a $200 donation to RRC from the Florida Springs Scuba group. Volunteers enjoyed a hot dog lunch after the clean-up.
Water shortage alert issued
Marion County is in the 18-county area affected by extreme drought conditions.
Staff report
The St. Johns River Water Management District has issued a Phase III Extreme Water Shortage declaration in response to ongoing exceptional drought conditions, declining groundwater levels and reduced surface water flows across northeast and central Florida. Marion is among the 18 counties entirely or partially within the district.
District staff evaluated rainfall totals, aquifer levels, river flows and drought indicators before recommending the action. Despite earlier conservation measures, conditions have continued to worsen due to a lack of rainfall, requiring additional mandatory restrictions to help protect regional water resources, the news release stated.
Under Phase III restrictions, landscape irrigation continues to be limited to one day per week for residential, commercial and institutional properties, including managed
landscapes and athletic fields. Restrictions on irrigation for new plantings, including sod, have also been tightened.
Additional Phase III measures include:
• The water shortage order is being expanded into the district’s portion of Lake County.
Commercial, industrial and institutional users must suspend certain non-essential water uses.
Irrigation for golf course fairways is limited to one day per week.
• Aesthetic water use is prohibited and additional restrictions apply to activities such as street and pressure washing.
Landscape irrigation is prohibited between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. The district is urging all water users to eliminate unnecessary water use, suspend non-essential activities and prepare for the possibility of additional restrictions if drought conditions persist.
To learn more, visit sjrwmd.com/ wateringrestrictions
Sara Havenstein and Alex Eng with Florida Springs Divers were among the volunteers.
Havenstein dove for about two hours around KP Hole Park and other areas and collected items including a dragonfly ornament.
“(The river) looks good, clean,” she said.
Sara Havenstein and Alex Eng with Florida Springs Scuba, who were among the estimated 100 volunteers at the 2026 Rainbow River Conservation River Clean Up Day on May 16, 2026, look over some of the debris brought in, including a “Woody” figurine from the “Toy Story” movie.
Rainbow River Conservation, a nonprofit aimed at protecting the river and related ecology, sent volunteers out from a private boat ramp at Rio Vista Park for its annual River Clean Up Day south of Rainbow Springs State Park on May 16, 2026.
Members of Florida Springs Scuba presented a donation to Rainbow River Conservation to former Dunnellon mayor Bill White during the May 16 River Clean Up Day at Rio Vista Park north of Dunnellon.
Public Notice
Photos by Andy Fillmore Ocala Gazette
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People, Places and Things
Inaugural out-‘beach’
The first ever Sand & Sun Festival brought acclaimed artists and spectators to downtown Ocala.
By Susan Smiley-Height susan@magnoliamediaco.com
Things were just “beachy” in downtown Ocala on May 16 for the inaugural Sand & Sun Festival hosted by the city of Ocala at Citizens’ Circle.
The Ocala Cultural Arts outreach featured six nationally recognized artists creating large-scale works of art in sand underneath a long canopy of protective covering.
At the end of the day, Andy Daily, a master sculptor and sand manager of the Siesta Key Crystal Classic, which is known for education and community
programs, according to city officials, took home the coveted first place prize as well as the fan favorite award.
The other participating artists were Amanda Bolduc, Mitch Guerrero, Josh Jakubowski, Bruce Peck and Mark Wilson.
The event included entertainment, food trucks and a sandbox play area for children.
“Thank you to everyone who joined us for the inaugural Sand & Sun Festival in downtown Ocala. We appreciate the community coming out to support this new event and the talented artists who participated in our sand sculpting competition. A special thank you
to our judges from the Appleton Museum of Art, our event sponsors, vendors, performers, staff and volunteers who helped make the day possible,” the city noted on its Facebook Page.
The post stated that the winners were:
First place: Andy Daily, “Scorpion King,” $1,000 cash prize
Second place: Amanda Bolduc, “Kindred Spirits,” $600 cash prize
Fan favorite: Andy Daily, “Scorpion King,” $300 cash prize
For more information about this event and others, visit ocalafl. gov or contact artinfo@ocalafl. gov or (352) 629-8447.
Josh Jakubowski works on his sand sculpture “Lose Yourself.”
“Lose Yourself” by artist Josh Jakubowski.
A Sand & Sun sculpture is shown at the entrance to Citizens’ Circle.
Danielle Volker, 10, left, and her sister, Elowyn, 4, right, create their own masterpieces in a sand box during the Sand & Sun Festival.
Oswald Charles, Chrissy West and John Christom perform with the Ocala Steel Orchestra.
Bruce Peck works on his sand sculpture “I Hope You Dance.”
Andy Daily works on “Scorpion King.”
Amanda Bolduc works on “Kindred Spirits.”
Mark Wilson works on “Three Little Pigs - The Prequel.”
The sand sculpture “Kindred Spirits” by artist Amanda Bolduc.
The sand sculpture “Three Little Pigs - The Prequel” by artist Mark Wilson.
Mitch Guerrera works on his sand sculpture “What Building Code?”
“Sands” Andy Daily works on his sand sculpture “Scorpion King,” which earned him first place and fan favorite awards, as people walk by during the Sand & Sun Festival at Citizens’ Circle in Ocala on May 16, 2026. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2026.
Photos by Bruce Ackerman Ocala Gazette
Add some flavor to your Memorial Day BBQ
The three-day weekend can be a time for reflection and relaxation.
Staff report
Memorial Day mourns and honors military personnel who lost their lives while serving in the American armed forces.
Parades and other events, such as the annual Memorial Day ceremony at the Ocala-Marion County Veterans Memorial Park on May 25, beginning at 9 a.m., honor such individuals and instill pride in Americans during a much-beloved weekend across the United States.
Though Memorial Day is observed annually on the last Monday in May, the three-day holiday weekend marks the unofficial start of summer for millions of people each year. That kickoff typically includes lots of backyard barbecues.
As millions gather to celebrate Memorial Day this year, those tasked with manning the grill can consider these ways to add some extra flavor to foods cooked over an open flame.
Monitor temperatures with a meat thermometer.
Overcooking foods cooked over an open flame is a common mistake. Overcooked foods tend to taste dried out and fail to offer that signature juiciness associated with well-cooked barbecue staples like steak and other types of
red meat. People manning the grill this Memorial Day are urged to utilize a meat thermometer, which can ensure foods maintain their juicy flavor profile and do not dry out. The ideal internal cooking temperature varies depending on which foods are being cooked, so be sure to stick to a recipe or look up the appropriate internal cooking temperature for foods that will be cooked over an open flame. Utilize wood chips or chunks. Another way to add flavor is to grill foods over wood chips or chunks. Chips or chunks might be flavored (mesquite is a popular flavor) or unflavored. Cooks should know that adding flavored or unflavored chips or chunks will impart a smoky flavor to anything cooked on the grill. When using a gas grill, cooks can put the chips or chunks in a smoker box or wrap them in a foil pouch to impart extra flavor without adversely affecting the grill.
• Dry rub meats. Some people marinate grilled foods prior to cooking, but marinade can drip off when cooking food and lose much of its value in regard to adding flavor. Dry rubs are made from spices, herbs and other seasonings that won’t
fall or burn off as the food is cooking. Dry rubs can add extra flavor when applied hours before cooking, or even shortly before placing food on the grill.
• Slow down. Low and slow is a motto embraced by people who love to smoke foods and that same approach can be applied to more traditional grilling as well. Even if you don’t have all day to cook like you would if you choose to
smoke food, cooking low and slow can ensure foods are juicy and full of that unique taste that’s only possible when cooking over an open flame. Keep vents open only on a crack and cook food at lower temperatures than you otherwise might. While the food won’t be cooked as fast, it will boast more of that signature smoky flavor grilling enthusiasts love.
‘Constellation’ exhibition
The CF Webber Gallery offers new themed display of art.
Staff report
The College of Central Florida Webber Gallery will present the work of local artists in the exhibition “Constellation,” which will be on display from May 25 through July 16. The themed exhibition will explore traditional and non-traditional concepts of the term.
“Expanding beyond its astronomical origins, the exhibition approaches constellations as an open-ended concept that each artist will engage with in their own way. The resulting works may draw from personal, symbolic, conceptual or traditional ideas, offering varied perspectives on how meaning is formed through connection and arrangement,” the news release noted.
The exhibition may feature works across multiple mediums, including ink, paint, cyanotype, collage and more. This range of materials reflects the flexibility of the theme itself, allowing artists to explore structure and spontaneity in their processes. By bringing together multiple perspectives and mediums, the exhibition creates a larger “constellation” of its own, one formed by the collective voices of the local creative
“The Stars Mourn” by Ashlyn Preece. [Photo courtesy CF]
“Cosmic Eye” by Cole Diaz. [Photo courtesy CF]
Rolling for The Rock Car show and vendor fair proceeds will help students in area middle and high schools.
By Susan Smiley-Height susan@magnoliamediaco.com
Alittle more than 80 vehicles were entered into the inaugural Rolling for the Rock car and vendor show that took place May 16 on the campus of the Arc of Marion in southeast Ocala.
The Rock program is a nonprofit outreach with volunteer staffed rooms in middle and high schools in Marion and Citrus counties, where food, clothing, shoes, school supplies, hygiene supplies and more are kept for students in need. The materials are meant to give the students tools to help build a “rock-solid” foundation to succeed.
For the event on Saturday, attendees were able to vote on 13 fan favorite awards, with each car receiving a trophy. There also were four special judged trophies, Best Vibe as voted on by the Rock board members, Most Likely to be a Chick Magnet as voted on by female staffers, Most Likely to Survive the Apocalypse as decided by male staffers and the Presenting Sponsor Award, bestowed by the Jenkins Auto Group.
The event included food
trucks, a disc jockey and performances by Becky Baby and Shelby Lauren.
“We were happy with it being our first go at a car and vendor show. It was pretty cool and fun, and a little different way to do it,” said The Rock Executive Director Troy Weaver by phone on Monday.
“Proceeds will help purchase things for the program that typically are not donated, or things we like to put in our room that are new, such as undergarments. They also will help furnish a new Rock room at Vanguard High School. We’ll be putting it in this summer, so will probably use a little of that money to buy some cabinetry. And it looks like we’ll have also a Dunnellon High room coming online soon as well,” Weaver added.
“Right now, those two schools are being served by the Rolling Rock truck. They go there and take orders and then bring back things the students need. Once we add those two, we’ll have 27 schools in three counties and Citrus County is about to add three more over the summer, which is phenomenal for our growth,” Weaver explained.
“And,” he added with excitement in his voice, “another cool thing is that our program was just officially trademarked. We got our letter and certificate from the patent office, with The Rock logo with the red heart and our wording. That’s a happy, cool thing for our 10th anniversary and as we grow and make the program more effective.”
The Rock program was established by local restaurateur Ron “Rondo” Fernandez and his wife, Toby. It is aimed at helping students be “engaged, stable and confident” according to its website.
“In 2025, the Rock program served 15,749 students by providing essential items, including 4,630 clothing items, 394 pairs of shoes, 3,065 food items, 7,729 hygiene products and 29,573 school supplies, removing barriers that impact learning,” the site states.
For information about the program and ways to help, go to therockprogram.org
Rodney Thrush and Dennis Weidner pose by their cars, a 1970 Plymouth AAR ‘Cuda and a 1940 Ford sedan during the Rolling for The Rock Program car show at the Arc of Marion campus on Southeast Maricamp Road in Ocala on May 16, 2026.
The Rock co-founder Ron “Rondo” Fernandez, program supporter Wayne Parks and Troy Weaver, executive director, are shown with Rondo’s 1971 Chevy K5 Blazer.
Felix Burgos cleans up under the hood of his 1948 Chevrolet 3100 pickup.
A Freddy Krueger figurine at the back of one entry.
Billy and Cortnee Gilchrist, with their son, Tripp, 2 1/2.
Cars are shown during the car show in Ocala.
Dave and Deb Hobbs pose with their 2015 Dodge Challenger.
Hilary and Eric Candelario, with their daughters, Paesley, 7, and Raegan, 9, by their custom 2002 GMC Yukon Denali.
Bruce and Connie Miller pose with their 1978 Ford Bronco.
A teddy bear was buckled up in Dennis Weidner’s 1940 Ford.
“Pinhead,” a horror character figure from “Hellraiser III,” sits in front of a Cadillac hearse.
Jose Cintron, Marcus Foreman, William Ayala and Danielle Barney, with their custom 2020 Toyota Camry.
Classic military vehicles were on display at the show.
Photos by Bruce Ackerman Ocala Gazette
Summer camps for young musicians
The Ocala Symphony Orchestra Music Conservatory will offer experiences for students in grades 3-12.
AQUARIUS
Staff report
The Community Music Conservatory, located at the Reilly Arts Center, at 500 NE 9th St., Ocala, features teaching studios, professional staff and faculty, and performance spaces that include the 700-seat mainstage auditorium and NOMA Black Box.
Conservatory programming includes group classes and private instruction designed for students of all ages, backgrounds and skill levels. The conservatory is managed by the Ocala Symphony Orchestra team and is committed to fostering an environment of creativity, life-long learning and quality instruction.
The conservatory has announced its 2026 Summer Music Camps for students in grades 3–12:
• Meet the Instruments, for grades 3-5, from 9 a.m. to noon, June 15-19, with instructor Theresa Weatherly. This camp is good for young beginners and invites students to explore the world of music
through a hands-on, interactive experience. Participants will have the opportunity to hear, learn about and play a variety of band and orchestra instruments under the guidance of professional musicians.
Conservatory Jazz Intensive, for grades 9-12, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., July 6-10, with instructor Jack Covell and guest clinicians Rick Hajduk, Jimmy Sexton and Logan Hedgepath. This camp is designed for high school musicians ready to elevate their artistry. The immersive experience is focused on ensemble performance, sectionals and guided improvisation. Students will work with experienced instructors and guest clinicians to refine technique, expand musical vocabulary and build confidence in a collaborative setting. The program culminates in a concert where participants will showcase their progress in a live performance.
To learn more and register for camp, go to reillyartscenter.com/summercamps/
The Ocala Symphony Orchestra Music Conservatory will offer two summer camps. [Photo courtesy Reilly Arts Center]
Public Notice
Europe's love for soccer – and the World Cup
The 2026 FIFA Men's World Cup will soon kick off here in North America. But if you're traveling in Europe while it's taking place, you'll certainly feel its impact as well.
For most of the globe, the World Cup is as big as it gets –and Europe is no different. This is when soccer takes over daily life. Player news becomes national news, entire communities grind to a halt to watch games, and shops post unusual hours that suspiciously align with the match schedule. It’s when natives brush up on their national anthem, bars take on extra staff (and extra beer), and everyone comes together with one communal goal: to go nuts cheering for their country.
Sixteen European countries have qualified for the World Cup, and if you're visiting any of them during the tournament (June 11July 19), it will likely impact your travels. But rather than seeing soccer mania as an obstacle, consider how it can enhance your trip, especially if the national
team is playing. Even if you’re not a fan, become one for the day. This is a rare and special type of cultural immersion, beyond the everyday museums and attractions.
And it’s so easy to jump in. You don’t need to know the players, the coaches, or even the rules to enjoy the experience. Buy a jersey – or a flag, or a scarf, or a colorful wig – at any souvenir shop, then just wander the streets at match time. You’ll find pubs packed with people squinting at a grainy television; stumble upon large screens erected at parks and piazzas for public watch parties; and hear a chorus of emotions erupting from open apartment windows. Watching along with the locals, you’ll make new friends, pick up the team chant, and begin to recognize the vice grip this sport has on all of Europe.
The “Beautiful Game” –beloved around the globe – was born in Europe: Modern soccer traces its roots back to 1860s England. (If you’re in England during a match, you might hear
SERIOUSLY SIMPLE
the phrase "It’s coming home"–a reference to England being the birthplace of the sport.) But Europe's love for soccer –football– is more than pride in its invention; it's also rooted in the sport's accessibility. You don’t need special equipment or training to play. You just need a ball and…that’s about it. A pitch can be grass or pavement, a team can be three or thirty, and goals can be a pair of shoes or tape on a wall. Regardless of socioeconomic status, virtually everyone in Europe grows up playing football – and watching it. This accessibility continues through the makeup of Europe’s leagues, which operate via a system of promotion and relegation. This concept is foreign
Split pea soup with crispy bacon perfect for a chilly day
Spring can have surprising weather swings from sunny, warm days to rainy, cold ones. This soup is always appreciated at those unexpected chilly times.
A wonderful weekday main course soup for lunch or dinner, this soup is full of flavor, color and very hearty; a meal in one. Split peas don’t need soaking, so you can make this in about an hour at the end of the day. If you’ve ever wondered what a split pea is, they are field peas that are grown especially for drying.
Bacon is included in the soup and as a garnish on top. The smoky flavor adds an important layer of flavor to the soup. The crumbled bacon garnish adds a savory counterpoint to the creamy, naturally sweet split pea flavor. For a variation, garnish the soup with chopped honey-baked ham or crispy prosciutto. Serve this with a simple vegetable salad and warm, crusty French bread. A glass of a full-bodied pinot noir or zinfandel is a nice beverage accompaniment.
Split Pea Soup with Crispy Bacon
Serves 4
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1 stalk celery, sliced
2 small carrots, peeled and sliced
1 cup split peas, green or yellow, rinsed and picked over
4 cups chicken or vegetable stock
2 bacon slices
2 tablespoons finely chopped parsley
1/2 teaspoon finely chopped fresh marjoram or 1/4 teaspoon dried
1/2 teaspoon finely chopped fresh thyme or 1/4 teaspoon dried
Salt and small pinch freshly ground black pepper
To garnish: 1/4-pound bacon, fried until crisp, drained on paper towels, and coarsely chopped
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Saute onion for 3 to 5 minutes or until softened. Add celery and carrots; saute for another 3 minutes or until just slightly softened.
2. Add split peas, stock, bacon slices and herbs. Bring to a simmer over medium-
low heat. Partially cover and cook for about 50 to 60 minutes, or until the peas are tender. Remove bacon slices.
3. Coarsely puree 2 cups of soup in a food processor fitted with a metal blade or process with a hand blender in the pot just until the desired texture is reached. Return the pureed soup to the soup pot and season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 5 more minutes. Taste for seasoning.
4. To serve: Ladle into heated soup bowls and garnish with the crispy crumbled bacon. Serve immediately. Make ahead: This soup can be made up to three days ahead, covered and refrigerated. It also can be frozen for up to three months.
pan-European tournament called the Champions League.
Meanwhile, the clubs in the lowest tiers are essentially pub teams: bartenders, electricians, and truck drivers who moonlight as footballers. But no matter how small your team is, glory is always accessible. Win your league, and you go up!
to Americans, but easy to grasp: the handful of teams ("clubs") that finish atop their league are "promoted" to the higher league, and the handful that finish at the bottom are "relegated" to the lower one. (Imagine your local minor league baseball team winning their pennant and moving up to the Majors.)
These systems can run deep. England, for example, has nine tiers of football, ranging from professional to amateur. Germany has about a dozen. The top leagues are where the biggest clubs play – think Manchester United and Bayern Munich –with rosters of global superstars who are paid unfathomable wages. At the end of the season, the cream of the crop play in a
While most European football revolves around club teams, every two years those alliances are temporarily abandoned for an international tournament: the World Cup (this year) or the Euros (next up in 2028). Suddenly, Barcelona fans cheer on players from their megarival, Madrid, because for this tournament, they’re all Spanish. If you’re not traveling this summer, you can still get a taste of Europe's love for soccer right here at home. Head to your local pub, and you'll probably hear some different accents screaming at the TV – especially if you're in a city where matches are taking place.
But if you happen to be in Europe during the World Cup, become a temporary fan. While perennial powerhouses like Germany and France have higher expectations than happy-to-behere Scotland and Austria, in the end this tournament is a giant, collective celebration of football. And if you find yourself in a participating country when the national team takes the field, join in the celebration. Everyone else certainly will.
MAYO CLINIC
Take charge of your health: The importance of screening
DEAR MAYO CLINIC: My husband, who is in his 50s, never goes to the doctor. I tell him he needs to be seen for preventive care purposes, but he’s stubborn and I can’t get through to him. I think he’s afraid they’ll find something wrong with him. How can I convince him it’s important to go in for a checkup?
ANSWER: You and your husband are not alone in this struggle. Statistically, men have been less likely than women to seek medical care, even when experiencing health issues. Men are also less likely to go in for regular checkups and undergo preventive screenings. Screenings are tests that are completed in the absence of active disease symptoms.
As a family health care clinician, it is necessary for me to discuss the importance of screening measures with patients, such as screening for diabetes, elevated blood pressure and high cholesterol. Screening can detect many preventable diseases, such as heart disease and certain cancers, including lung cancer for those with a smoking history and colon, breast, cervical and prostate cancer for age-appropriate patients.
There is a wide range of screening tests available. Patients of different ages and genders require different screenings, and your health care team can tell you what is appropriate for you. For example, screening for colon cancer, such as a stool sample or colonoscopy, begins at age 45. Cervical cancer screenings, such as Pap smears, typically begin at age 21 for females. Blood pressure screening can begin as early as childhood.
Screening for hepatitis C, which can cause liver damage, cirrhosis and eventually cancer, is a simple
blood test that can be ordered by your health care team. Men can discuss the pros and cons of prostate screening with their health care clinician.
If found early through screening, these diseases can be easily and effectively treated. Screenings can prevent severe disease, which can lead to a host of other problems. Diseases found in the late stages, unfortunately, have the highest death rates as seen in those who have neglected routine screenings for years.
Educating underrepresented groups should be a priority in cancer prevention. For instance, Hispanic Americans face a disproportionate burden of cancer, with higher rates of certain cancers like liver, gastrointestinal and cervical. Certain populations, unfortunately, do not get the screening they deserve. Some people have a higher death rate because access to screening isn’t available. It’s important for health care teams to have an open discussion about screening and to educate all patients on what it does, how it affects them and their life expectancy.
Overall, screening is extremely important. From cancers to heart disease, these illnesses are prevalent in our society and can be prevented if caught early. We know that disease can be prevented by establishing everyday changes such as having a healthy diet, maintaining an appropriate weight and exercising. Those habits, along with annual checkups and necessary screening, are among the most important things you can do. You can tell your husband that taking care of himself will ultimately keep him out of our offices.
Much of Europe's love for soccer is rooted in accessibility: A pitch can be grass or pavement, a team can be three or thirty, and goals can be a pair of shoes or a line drawn on a wall. CREDIT:(Dominic Arizona Bonuccelli, Rick Steves' Europe).
LOCAL CALENDAR LISTINGS
Government
MAY 25, JUNE 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
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.
JUNE 2, 16
Marion County Board of County Commissioners
McPherson Governmental Campus Auditorium, 601 SE 25th Ave., Ocala
9am
The commission meets the first and third Tuesday of the month. Agendas, minutes and video are available at marionfl.legistar.com/calendar.aspx
Ocala City Council
Ocala City Hall, 110 SE Watula Ave., Ocala
4pm
The council meets each first and third Tuesday of the month. Agendas and minutes are available at ocala.legistar.com/calendar.aspx
Belleview City Commission
Belleview City Hall, 5343 SE Abshier Blvd., Belleview 6pm
Community Arts
MAY 23
Heritage and Vision Celebration
Rise Baptist Church, 19060 NW 53rd Terrace, Orange Lake
10am-3pm
The event will include live entertainment, food, games and an inflatable slide. It will serve as a homecoming for former members of the church, which was founded in 1882 as the Lochbie Baptist Church and later became Orange Lake Baptist Church. To learn more, find the church on social media, visit rise-church.org or call (352) 572-1285.
Exhibit debut Discovery Center, 701 NE Sanchez Ave., Ocala
10am-4pm Families are invited to explore “Treehouses: Look Who’s Living in the Trees.” The exhibit will be on display through Sept. 19. Guests can roam from tree to tree and explore habitats trees provide for animals, search for signs left by raccoons, woodpeckers, bears and other species, cross a wobbly suspension bridge and climb through two large treehouses, become animal trackers, come face to face with wildlife, move along the Forest Sound Dance Floor, build a treehouse, learn about sustainable logging and explore how trees are used in everyday life. For more information, call 352-401-3900 or visit mydiscoverycenter.org
MAY 25
A Heritage Remembered: A Tribute to America’s Fallen
Ocala-Marion County Veterans Memorial Park, 2601 E. Fort King St., Ocala 9am The annual Memorial Day event will include speakers, a flyover, wreath laying, musical presentations and more. To learn more, go to marionfl.org and marionvetpark.com
JUNE 4, 11, 18, 25
Summer Nights Lecture Series
Fort King National Historic Landmark, 3925 E Fort King St., Ocala
6-8pm
Explore Florida’s past with presentations from historians, educators and cultural experts. Each week highlights a different chapter of our state’s story from frontier life to women’s history to
The commission meets the first and third Tuesday of the month. Agendas, minutes and video available at belleviewfl.org/200/agendas-minutes
MAY 26, JUNE 9 AND 23
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
JUNE 10
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
THROUGH JUNE 3
Ocklawaha River Basin public input
Online
The St. Johns River Water Management draft plan updates priorities and projects to improve water quality, support restoration efforts and guide water resource management. Public input will help ensure the final plan reflects community needs, local knowledge and regional priorities. The draft document and comment form are available at sjrwmd.com/documents/plans/#basin
Florida’s earliest communities. Learn more at fortkingocala.com
JUNE 6
Juneteenth Celebration Dinner/ Dance Fundraiser
Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place, 1821 NW 21st Ave., Ocala
6-10pm
R.A.M.A.L. Educational and Social Services, Inc., a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization presents the event, which will include dinner, live entertainment, a DJ, dancing, silent and live auctions, raffles and more. Proceeds will support community projects, scholarships for at-risk and non-traditional college students, tutoring and mentoring. Learn more at ramalservices.org
Local authors book signing event
Koontz Furniture and Design, 3111 S. Pine Ave., Ocala
4-6pm J.E. Leak, Dave Schlenker, Cynthia Van Heyde, Michael P. Koontz and Carlton Reese will offer their latest works and talk with guests. To learn more, call (352) 622-3241.
JUNE 6, 20
Veterans’ benefits briefing events
Locations below
10am-noon
The sessions are June 6, Belleview Public Library, 13145 SE County Highway 484, Belleview; June 20, Silver Springs Shores Community Center, 590 Silver Road, Ocala. After a benefits overview, attendees can meet with staff who can identify eligibility and assist with the application process for benefits including but not limited to disability compensation, pension, appeals, widow’s pension, death pension, dependency and indemnity compensation, education, home loans and healthcare assistance. For more information, call (352) 671-8422 or visit marioncountyfl.org/ veteransservices
JUNE 13
College of Central Florida Application Day
Ewers Century Center, 3001 S.W. College Road, Ocala 9-11am Future students can apply to the college with no fee, start the financial aid application, speak with
MAY 23
Creedence Revived
Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE Ninth St., Ocala
7:30pm
Get ready for a high-energy night of classic rock as Creedence Revived brings the iconic sound of Creedence Clearwater Revival to life. Featuring world-class musicians and a powerhouse vocalist known for his ability to capture legendary voices, this tribute delivers an authentic and electrifying performance. Get tickets at reillyartscenter.com
MAY 30
Ovation Awards and cast party
Ocala Civic Theatre, 4337 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala
6pm
The night will begin with a cocktail hour from 6-7 p.m. in Studio B. The ceremony will begin at 7 p.m. with a look back at videos of the season and the presentation of college scholarship winners, followed by awards for excellence in acting, tech and volunteer service. Get tickets at thecivic.org
Rhythm Fest
Webb Field, 1501 W Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala
11am-5pm
Enjoy live performances throughout the day, including headliner The Family Stone, plus The Sensational Barnes Brothers, The Pharaohs of Funk, the Ocala Steel Orchestra and more acts. There will be local vendors, food trucks and a Kids Zone. Learn more at ocalafl.gov/government/citydepartments-i-z/recreation-parks/special-events/ rhythm-fest
JUNE 5
Reilly Noir: Longineu Parsons
NOMA Black Box at the Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE Ninth St., Ocala
7:30pm
Parsons is a professor of music at Florida A&M University and president of Tribal Disorder Records. He has performed and recorded with Nat Adderley, Cab Calloway, Frank Foster, Billy Harper, Philly Joe Jones, Herbie Mann, David Murray, Sun Ra, Sam Rivers, Cecil Taylor, Joe Williams, Nancy Wilson and others. Learn more at reillyartscenter.com
advisors about program and degree options and tour the campus. The college will give away free CF merchandise and attendees may enter to receive a scholarship to cover tuition for one class at the in-state rate. Students also may choose to take a placement test, which starts at 8 a.m. Additional Application Day events will be held June 15, 2-5 p.m. at the Wilton Simpson Citrus Campus, 3800 S. Lecanto Highway, Lecanto, and June 16, 2-5 p.m. at the Jack Wilkinson Levy Campus, 15390 N.W. Highway 19, Chiefland. For more information, visit cf.edu/applicationday
Ocala Pickle Festival
Midtown Station, 235 NE Watula Ave., Ocala 11am-5pm A day dedicated to all things pickled, crunchy, tangy and downright delicious. Music, vendors and more. Get details at infinitealeworks.com
JUNE 18
Ocala/Marion County Braver Angels
Alliance
Ocala-Headquarters Public Library, 2720 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala 5:15pm Braver Angels is a national organization with a mission to strengthen democracy through civil discourse. The upcoming meeting will reflect
JUNE 7
Music of Mancini
Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE Ninth St., Ocala 3pm This tribute celebrates the timeless music of Henry Mancini. From “Moon River” and “The Pink Panther Theme” to favorites from “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” and “Peter Gunn,” this performance brings Mancini’s iconic melodies to life. Presented by Glenn Miller Productions, the team behind the world-famous Glenn Miller Orchestra. Get tickets at reillyartscenter.com
JUNE 12
Hear Us Roar III
Ocala Civic Theatre, 4337 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala 6pm This is a collaborative fundraiser for Arts in Health Ocala Metro and The Arc of Marion. It will feature a sing-along style performance where clients from The Arc of Marion take the stage alongside AIHOM musicians Becky Baby, David Reinwald and Brandon Dull. Original paintings created by Arc artists during workshops led by AIHOM artist practitioner Christopher Hershberger will be available for purchase. VIP tickets include access at 6pm, light hors d’oeuvres and opportunity to view and purchase artwork before the performance. General admission includes entry to the 7pm show and access to purchase artwork following the performance. Tickets are on sale at ocalacivictheatre.com/tickets
THROUGH JULY 16
“Constellation” exhibition CF Webber Gallery, 3001 S.W. College Road, Ocala 10am-4pm, Monday-Friday
The College of Central Florida Webber Gallery presents the work of local artists in the themed exhibition that explores traditional and nontraditional concepts of the word constellation. For information, visit cf.edu/webber
THROUGH SEPT. 13
My Country, ’Tis of
Thee: Celebrating American Art and Design Appleton Museum of Art, 4333 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala Hours vary
Drawn from the Appleton’s permanent collection, the exhibition highlights a wide range of American expression across time periods, subjects, media and functions. It also explores the role Florida and its natural wonders, including those of Marion County, has played as a source of inspiration for artists. For details, go to appletonmuseum.org
on the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, with interactive discussions about why the declaration is important today and how it shapes our American identity. To learn more, go to braverangels.org or email Buddy Oswald at dhoswald@gmail.com
JUNE 22
Talking History Presentation
Reddick Public Library, 15150 NW Gainesville Road, Reddick 10:30am
Explore the history of North Marion County by visiting the communities and towns that make/ made up the area through the use of photographs and maps. This presentation by historian Annabelle Leitner will be about the citrus industry. To learn more, call (352) 438-2566
JUNE 23
Free estate planning workshop
Marion Oaks Community Center, 294 Marion Oaks Lane, Ocala
11:30am
The city of Ocala’s Community Development Services department is Estate Planning 101: Secure Your Legacy workshops. Discussions will include property disposition, trusts, living wills, life insurance and more. To learn more, contact g.martell.ufl.edu or call (352) 629-8322.
Check out Longineu Parsons on June 5 in Ocala.
[Photo courtesy Reilly Arts Center]
Sudoku is played on a grid of 9 x 9 spaces. Within the rows and columns are 9 “squares” (made up of 3 x 3 spaces). Each row, column and square (9 spaces each) needs to be filled out with the numbers 1-9, without repeating any numbers within the same row, column or square.
BUILD AND PROGRAM ROBOTS!
IHMC’s 2026 Summer Robotics Camp will offer students the opportunity to learn about computer programming and robotics. Campers will work in teams to master Lego Mindstorms challenges. They will further develop their teamwork skills, confidence in problem solving, and creativity. Campers will hear about state-of-the-art research at IHMC, and they will have the opportunity to eat lunch in a small group with a scientist, engineer, or other role model. The second session will include instruction in Python programming
SESSIONS
1
2
Ocala Session 1: Rising 8th & 9th Graders
July 13–16, 9:30 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Ocala Session 2: Rising 9th & 10th Graders
July 20–23, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
DETAILS
Each session costs $245. Students should select one camp session (only) based on grade level. Space is limited to 20 participants per session. Financial assistance may be available based on need. Priority will be given to students who haven’t attended in prior years. Please email before registering students who have attended previously.
Please register via EventBrite at ihmc.us/robotics-camp beginning March 2
Phone: 850-202-4462
E-mail: uschwuttke@ihmc.org
Mail and Camp Location: IHMC Robotics Camp, 15 SE Osceola Ave. Ocala FL 33371
Website: www.ihmc.us/robotics-camp
A close personal relationship with a knowledgeable, caring CPA helps you get the right answers to your questions and gives you a trusted advisor to help guide you on the path to achieving your goals.
Gasoline Alley
Broom Hilda
Middletons
Animal Crackers
