The Sewing Bees Pg B1
Disability rights group investigating MCSO over treatment of jail inmates
By Jennifer Hunt Murty jennifer@ocalagazette.com
Disability Rights Florida, an agency serving as the state protection and advocacy system for individuals with disabilities, has
Ocala city election “reset”
By Jamie Berube jamie@ocalagazette.com
After the city of Ocala announced that no candidates had qualified for the office of mayor and city council districts 1, 3 and 5, a special election was set by city council during a regular scheduled meeting on July 15 in an attempt to stay on track with the prior election’s schedule.
The new qualifying period ran from 8 a.m. July 16 to noon July 18. The city intends to conduct the special election on the same date as originally scheduled: Tuesday, Sept. 16.
Although the city clerk, Angel Jacobs, is the qualifying agent for all city candidates under the city’s charter, it contracts with Marion County’s Supervisor of Elections, Welsey Wilcox, to manage the actual election.
To keep the special election on the same timetable as the previous one, Wilcox told the city they would need to finish qualifying all candidates by the end of business on July 18, to have the turnaround time involved in getting ballots created, proofed and printed as well as statutory mailing requirements.
“I’d need to mail the ballots to registered voters in the military by Aug. 1,” explained Wilcox who said getting everything turned around in two weeks to meet the Aug. 1 deadline would make it a very busy time at his office. “But we’ll get it done,” he said confidently.
THE SPECIAL ELECTION
As of the start of the July 15 city council meeting, all three candidates for Mayor had refiled their intent, Benjamin Marciano, Neil J. Gillespie and Zackary Feliciano.
Incumbents, Barry M. Mansfield had filed again for a second term to serve on council for district 1, and James P. Hilty for district 5. Previously, neither incumbent had a challenger.
Mark W. Clark and TamBoura Jenkins filed again for city council for district 3 but in this special election will
See City election, page A7
indicated to the “Gazette” that the agency is investigating the Marion County Sheriff’s Office over its treatment of mentally ill prisoners at the county jail.
Aaron Victoria, a senior advocate-investigator for DRF, said he could not share more
details because the investigation is active; however, the “Gazette” has made a public records request to the MCSO for all correspondence and reports received from the agency.
In a March 28 email to Heart of Florida, the jail’s medical
provider, Victoria wrote: Disability Rights Florida, Inc. (DRF), Florida’s designated Protection and Advocacy system (P&A), has received a report about the death of Mayra I. Ramirez, an individual with mental illness who was an inmate at Marion County
Jail at the time of her death on September 7, 2023. Based on the report, DRF has probable cause to believe that Ms. Ramirez was the subject of abuse and/or neglect prior to her death. The letter
Navigating the unthinkable
By Susan Smiley-Height susan@magnoliamediaco.com
As a survivor of a house fire, Rebekah Johnson knows about the trauma of burns to a human body. For more than 20 years, since she was injured, she has been mentoring children and adults at the UF Health Shands Burn Center and working to raise awareness about fire safety both locally and around the nation. Johnson also is the executive director of the Embers of Hope Burn Camp, which is an outreach of the Marion County Firefighters Benevolence Fund and is geared to children who have sustained a
burn injury. The inaugural camp will take place from Aug. 7 to 10 at Lake Swan Camp in Melrose. It will give the 12 children who are enrolled, ranging in age from 7 to 16, an opportunity to see others with scars and find a sense of acceptance and community.
“My husband Steve is a Marion County firefighter and board member of the MCFBF. We are using the umbrella of the MCFBF, which is a nonprofit organization connected to Marion County Professional Fire Fighters union. We also have solicited corporate sponsorships and Hale Products in Ocala committed to a large donation, which is helping with the camp,” Johnson explained.
“We also have local unions and fire
departments from all over north central Florida. Every camper will have their own counselor during camp, and they are mostly firefighters or fire educators. Union 3169 MCPFF sponsored funding so we could rent two vans, and we’ve got two Marion County firefighters who will drive the vans to pick the kids up. It’s really a collaborative effort that my husband and I are passionate about and we got a lot of support from our wonderful community,” she added.
Johnson said she and her husband both have volunteered with other camps throughout the past nearly 20 years, such as Camp Tequesta and Camp Amigo.
During the Embers of Hope Burn Camp,
See Navigating the unthinkable, page A2
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Steve and Rebekah Johnson pose for a photo at Marion County Fire Rescue Station 11 in Reddick on July 9. Steve is a firefighter with Marion County Fire Rescue and Rebekah is executive director of the Marion County Firefighters Benevolence Fund’s Embers of Hope Burn Camp. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2025.
Navigating the unthinkable
Continued from page A2
she said the children will enjoy a lot of water activities, such as fishing, going on an innertube behind a boat and a water trampoline. They also will be visiting the Canyons Zipline and Adventure Park in Ocala, for ziplining, horseback riding and gem mining. Michael Seegobin, the son of MCFR Lt. Deen Seegobin, who recently showcased his culinary talents on television during Season 9 of “MasterChef Junior,” will be coming to camp to cook for the kids.
“And we do a support group, which is something I’ve led in other camps. It’s all about building selfconfidence and self-acceptance, and coping strategies for living in a world where your scars are on the outside and everyone can see them,” Johnson noted.
She also said that, oftentimes, people have this idea of being injured by fire “could never happen to me.”
“And so, it’s important that we talk about having working smoke detectors, having an escape plan, if there is a fire knowing what to do. Fire safety and preventing these kinds of injuries are really at the core. And we need any kind of support people can give, not just for camp, but year-round so if there is a child in the burn unit, which is more often than I like, I go there to help,” Johnson said.
“We try to do burn bags, things for them to do while they are in the hospital. We try to help out with gas because these families are coming all over. If they have other kids, they may be having to commute every day. If they miss work, it’s a financial hardship. Burn treatment is sensitive. Kids can be in the hospital, depending on the surface area of the burn and the degree, for almost a year sometimes. We have some wonderful organizations
supporting us, but there is always more that can be done,” she explained.
“I think the more that people understand that this happens, the less people stare at you in the store. There is more of an empathy than sympathy and fear. It’s challenging enough recovering from traumatic injury, but when there are physical differences because of it, that makes it even harder to navigate what your new normal is and how to get back into society, especially school,” Johnson offered.
She said that many parents who have gone through such a scenario want people to know that it can happen to anyone.
One such parent is Katie Scott, the mom of 8-year-old Nathan. He was injured on Dec. 24, 2022. She said his burns covered 62 percent of his total body surface area. He was on ECMO, or extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, which
is a form of life support used for patients with life-threatening heart and lung conditions. She said he endured amputations, dialysis and prolonged intubation.
“He spent three weeks at Shands to become stable enough to transfer. Went to Shriners Children’s Hospital in Texas for treatment, for six months. He survived sepsis. He goes back to Texas every three to six months for surgery. Camp allows Nate to be around other kids and adults who have survived these catastrophic events and continue to thrive. He has loved Camp Amigo and TeQuesta, however having a camp 20 minutes from home is so exciting,” Scott said.
To learn more about the Embers of Hope Burn Camp, go to mcfbf.org/ events
“The press was to serve the governed, not the governors.”
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Steve and Rebekah Johnson look over a brochure for the Embers of Hope Burn Camp at Marion County Fire Rescue Station 11.
A brochure for the Embers of Hope Burn Camp.
Photos by Bruce Ackerman
Ocala Council rejects commercial rezoning for apartments
By Jamie Berube jamie@ocalagazette.com
Ocala City Council members on July 15 unanimously approved rezoning 18.24 acres near Southwest 48th Avenue
and Southwest 49th Place from multifamily residential to community business zoning, effectively halting a proposed apartment complex.
The decision reverses a 2022 zoning decision for a failed Thompson Thrift apartment project.
“Essentially, this request is just intended to revert the multifamily residential zoning back to commercial in order to accommodate future commercial development,” said Emily Johnson, Ocala Growth Management Department.
Attorney Jimmy Gooding,
representing owner Circle Four, called the prior zoning a “downzoning” mistake.
Council member Jay Musleh joked, “Just an observation, so we’re not going to build an apartment here. That’s a first.”
City Council President Kristen
Dreyer chimed in, “I hope the news media is watching.”
The Planning & Zoning Commission, in a 7-0 vote on June 9, and staff supported the change, citing incompatibility with State Road 200’s businesses like Chickfil-A and no infrastructure issues.
Crashes rise 16% on State Road 200 in Ocala amid construction
By Jamie Berube jamie@ocalagazette.com
Ocala City Council members and Ocala Police Chief Mike Balken on July 15 raised growing concerns over a spike in traffic accidents along a stretch of State Road 200 that is under construction.
The increased number of crashes have occurred between Southwest 36th Avenue and South Pine Avenue, where construction work has altered driving patterns. According to Balken, crash numbers have risen from 105 between January and June 2024 to 122 in the same period in 2025, a 16.19% jump. Balken noted at the council meeting that the construction, which intensified in March and
April of this year, has led to multiple complaints about traffic conditions. He expressed hope that drivers would adapt to the new driving patterns, particularly the U-turns required due to newly installed concrete medians, which Mayor Ben Marciano identified as a primary cause of the accidents.
“Our traffic guy was saying that it’s the U-turns that are now being required… that’s where the accidents are occurring,” Marciano stated.
City Council President Kristen Dreyer emphasized the need for drivers to adjust to slower speeds, a key goal of the Florida Department of Transportation’s project. She also requested data on the types of crashes occurring compared to pre-construction incidents, to better understand
the issue. Balken committed to providing further analysis within the next one to two months.
Disability rights group
Continued from page A1
addresses our authority to request records held by Marion County Jail. The request is covered by the Protection and Advocacy for Individuals with Mental Illness (PAIMI) Act, 42 U.S.C. § 10801, et seq.
DRF has been designated by the State of Florida … as the state protection and advocacy (“P&A”) system for individuals with disabilities. Under federal law, DRF, as Florida’s P&A, exists to ensure the safety, wellbeing and success of people with disabilities, and to demand access and accountability in health care, education, transportation, voting, housing, employment, and within the juvenile and criminal justice systems.
Nationally, an average of about 1.40 deaths occur annually per 1,000 people incarcerated in jails, according to the National Institutes of Health. Given that the Marion County Jail holds an average of 1,600 to 1,700 inmates at a time, and 32 inmates have died since January 2021, the annual average of deaths in the jail is about 4.4 deaths per 1,000 incarcerated people per year, four
times above the national average.
DRF states that it “often takes legal action to protect the lives and well-being of Floridians with disabilities” it has “access authority to any agency, institution, and organization that affects or involves people with disabilities. This is a power that other agencies do not have.”
The email requested copies of Ramirez’s inmate medical records from Heart of Florida as well as the jail’s intake and booking information for Ramirez.
As previously reported by the “Gazette” just 10 days before Victoria’s email, Ramirez died in custody on Sept. 7, 2023. During her incarceration, Ramirez made at least 33 urgent requests for medical care, often filing multiple requests in one day. Her requests included pleas of “Help me,” “I am in so much pain,” and “I don’t know how much longer I’m going to last.”
Ramirez’s death in custody is one of a series of similar incidents that raise concerns about the quality of care inmates receive at the county facility—particularly when emergency medical
attention is needed.
The year Ramirez died, postbooking emergency room visits were less than half of what they had been in prior years, and that trend continued for 2024. Thus far, HOF has refused to explain the sharp reduction in ER visits for inmates post-booking in 2023 and 2024, and requests for records to explore the financial motivations that might have been at play have been denied.
As previously reported, a MCSO employee whistleblower filed a complaint against the agency for retaliatory firing. Records show she had raised alarms about dangerous standards of care and Heart of Florida’s lack of compliance with established Florida Jail Model Medical Standards and its contract with the MCSO.
The whistleblower, Mary Coy, had the title of medical services liaison. The job description read: “This is a responsible position which monitors the contract for medical services, monitors inmate medical grievances, and is a liaison between security and medical staff.”
The council remains optimistic that as drivers acclimate to the changes, crash rates will decline, aligning with FDOT’s safety
objectives. In the meantime, residents are urged to exercise caution and adapt to the new traffic patterns on SR 200.
Since MCSO fired Coy in August 2024, the formal reporting she once provided has ceased, and the position has been eliminated.
More recently, records obtained from MCSO regarding Paula Diaz, a physically and mentally disabled person arrested in January 2025 and released seven months later, reflect questionable disciplinary policy for the mentally ill. Diaz was released on July 7 after being deemed not competent to defend herself against the criminal charges.
Records of her time at the jail reflect conflict with other inmates—and with corrections officers.
Cpl. Ann McAfee, an MCSO employee since June 2019, wrote 10 days after Diaz was jailed: On 01/12/2025, at approximately 2203 hours, while on post in Bravo Pod, I was conducting headcount in Bravo Section. I observed Inmate Paula Diaz laying on her bed in room 217. I ordered her to stand up, to which she replied “I will get up if you help me.” I gave her a second
verbal order to stand for headcount or she will be pepper sprayed. Inmate Diaz complied with the order given. After headcount I attempted to counsel with Inmate Diaz. Inmate Diaz stated to me, “I don’t know what headcount is.” Inmate Diaz will be receiving a Disciplinary Report for her actions, Sergeant Wells was advised via phone call of the incident.
According to MCSO use of force policy 4030.30(d), “the use of pepper spray/foam shall be left to the discretion of each individual deputy.”
A spokesperson for Marion County Sheriff, Paul Bloom, wrote of their policy for housing the mentally ill, “Even though special needs inmates may be separated and secured in separate housing, they may still, at times, pose a risk to a deputy. It is difficult to have a blanket response for every individual, and we would not want that. Every inmate is unique, and every encounter is unique. To answer your question about pepper spray, that may or may not be the safest choice for a specific incident, inmate, or circumstance.”
Motorists drive on State Road 200 in Ocala. [File photo by Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette]
The Ocala City Council meets at City Hall. [File photo by Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette]
Honoring excellence in investigative reporting
The ‘Ocala
Gazette’ and reporters Caroline Brauchler and Jennifer Hunt Murty are finalists for two prestigious awards, one state and one national.
By Susan Smiley-Height susan@magnoliamediaco.com
Scott Whitley, Jacob Oakie, Dennis DiGenova, Michael Watkins, Maniesa Fletcher and Mayra Ramirez.
Those are the names of people the “Ocala Gazette” has written about who died in custody at the Marion County Jail or under medical care after being transported from that facility in crisis.
Nationally, an average of about 1.40 deaths occur annually per 1,000 people incarcerated in jails, according to the National Institutes of Health. Given that Marion County Jail holds an average of 1,600 to 1,700 inmates at a time, and 32 inmates have died since January 2021, the annual average of deaths in the jail is about 4.4 deaths per 1,000 incarcerated people per year, well above the national average.
Over the past year, “Gazette” reporters Caroline Brauchler and Jennifer Hunt Murty have spent endless hours and a considerable amount of money investigating some of those local deaths.
Footage obtained through the “Ocala Gazette’s” lawsuit against the Marion County Sheriff’s Office showed that inmate Whitley exhibited no physical violence toward Marion County Jail detention deputies before he was rushed to the floor, restrained and hit with a Taser 27 times over 12 minutes. Whitley died in custody on Nov. 25, 2022. The medical examiner ruled his death a homicide.
The former medical liaison for the Marion County Jail sued the sheriff’s office, claiming she was retaliated against after pleading for better medical care for inmates, according to court documents.
The new leader of the jail, Maj. Charles McIntosh, has ceased compliance reporting for medical care provided by the Heart of Florida Health Center at the jail despite growing concerns about questionable medical care that has led to the unusually high number of deaths at the facility.
Aaron Victoria, a senior advocateinvestigator for Disability Rights Florida, has confirmed that the Marion County Jail is being investigated by their agency, which is likely the only agency with the authority to assert access to the jail, other than the governor.
All of these are reasons the “Ocala Gazette” and Brauchler and Murty have been nominated recently for state and national awards.
Brauchler has been named a finalist for the 2025 Outstanding New Journalist Award for the Society of Professional Journalists Florida, for a collection of her work.
The “Gazette,” with Brauchler and Murty co-reporting, is a finalist for the inaugural A-Mark Foundation Award
for Investigative Reporting for the series “Deaths in custody at the Marion County Jail.”
The national A-Mark Foundation recognizes the best journalism in every state. SPJ Florida will convey both the state and national awards during its annual Sunshine State Awards in September.
“Investigative journalism is becoming more important because of things such as Gov. Ron DeSantis dissolving all community oversight for law enforcement agencies last year. A growing list of public records exemptions makes it very difficult to get public records. This climate creates a situation where many of our community’s most vulnerable citizens may be harmed without consequences,” Murty said about the work that led to the A-Mark Foundation Award.
“This body of reporting started with concerns about how the mentally ill were becoming hurt or dying at the Marion County Jail. It led to us uncovering untruthfulness from the Marion County Sheriff’s Office and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and our State Attorney’s complicity in covering up the losses. The investigation also revealed disconcerting medical practices by the Heart of Florida Health Center, which provides services to inmates,” Murty added.
“We fought in court and won exempt records that reflected untruthfulness by the MCSO for the circumstances surrounding the death of Scott Whitley. When we realized how many inmates had died the past few years, we gave families a voice to talk about their loved one and struggle to get them care. We shined a light on an MCSO employee whistleblower, the questionable background of the medical director for the Marion and Sumter County jails and explained that there are no state laws that require incustody death reporting by agencies.
Disability Rights Florida has opened an investigation into the treatment of the disabled at the MCSO. The MCSO shift in stopping medical compliance reporting is making it more difficult to monitor what is happening at the jail, so we’ve increased our outreach to families and lawyers to get help obtaining medical records of vulnerable inmates,” Murty explained.
Brauchler noted that the investigative work involved numerous public records searches.
“We consistently make more public records requests than any other news outlet in central Florida and we often face extremely high costs associated with obtaining the records that are necessary for us to tell the stories of people who have been neglected in jail. At one point, we were quoted $95,000 for requesting emails
between high-ranking sheriff’s office personnel directly involved in the oversight of the jail and specifically for emails that reference the names of the 32 known fatalities in the jail since 2021. Despite negotiations to narrow down our request to reduce the cost, we were never able to get a quote less than $20,000 to obtain the emails. We have never seen them to this day,” she said.
“Our paper is made up of strong, hardworking men and women who make a lot of sacrifices to seek the truth and report it. I am so grateful for this team for committing itself to an open dialogue with each other, demanding transparency from our government and fighting to keep the people of this community informed,” she added. “To be recognized by the Society of Professional Journalists and the A-Mark Foundation on this scale is such a huge honor—one that bolsters our ability to continue the hard work we pride ourselves on. Our focus remains steadfast on fighting for the mentally ill and less fortunate people who are dying or being neglected or while incarcerated.”
Eric Adelson is on staff in the Nicholson School of Communication and Media at the University of Central Florida. He has worked with Brauchler and Murty.
“Caroline was one of my students at UCF in the journalism program. Jennifer, I knew when I was at the University of Florida as an adjunct and she hired a couple of my students. We continued the relationship when I moved to UCF and she has been such an invaluable source for me as a journalist, a teacher and a peer,” he said.
“Caroline is an outstanding journalist. She has always been very diligent. She’s been fearless to take on assignments. Jennifer and Caroline are doing work that would not be done if it wasn’t for them. Truth that would not come to light because of them. The essence of journalism for me is telling a story that needs to be told for the benefit of the entire community and being unafraid of what is revealed as long as it is accurate and true. And I think it’s a public service,” Adelson stated.
“And I know it hasn’t been without a lot of stress, without a lot of challenged resources and they saw it through. They could have stopped anywhere along the way and called it a success. But their vision of the entire truth in every single story has, to me, been essential for understanding and putting some sunlight in a dark place,” he added.
“Anybody can do a story that every other journalist is doing. But it really takes guts to do a story no one else is doing. And Caroline has done that, and Jennifer has supported her along the way and that’s no small thing either,” Adelson continued. “I’m truly proud of both of them, and grateful as a Floridian to have them in my state. They deserve this.”
[Illustration by Dani Eskridge/Ocala Gazette]
Three county projects get help from the state
By Jennifer Hunt Murty jennifer@ocalagazette.com
Marion County government has announced that three local projects have received appropriations from this past legislative session.
LOWELL MUNICIPAL DRINKING WATER PROJECT: REQUESTED $2.5 MILLION, RECEIVED $1 MILLION
This area has contaminated soil, making it difficult for area residents who rely on wells to trust the safety of their water supply. The contamination comes from chemicals that have been used at the nearby Florida State Fire College.
The county received $3.5 million in the last session for planning and designing a potable water system that would provide clean drinking water to the citizens within the area as well as the State Fire College and nearby staterun prisons. However, the county needs to install a 12-inch water line over 6.73 miles to deliver the water. The initial estimate was an additional $7 million, but that is expected to rise significantly.
Stacie Causey, a spokesperson for Marion County, indicated that “this estimate is somewhat outdated with the rise in material and labor costs, as well as an expansion of the original project area. The project’s current estimated is $10 million.”
“The project has also been awarded a $1.25 million principal forgiveness loan through the Florida Department of
Environmental Protection and the State Revolving Fund; the agreement was on the agenda for the county commission meeting on July 1,” Causey added.
The funding received thus far will move the project into “the planning and design phase,” she said.
ROADWAY AND UTILITY
IMPROVEMENTS ON NW 49TH STREET FROM NW 70TH AVENUE TO NW 44TH AVENUE. REQUESTED AND RECEIVED THE FULL $2 MILLION APPROPRIATION
The county said the estimated cost of a roadway improvement totals $30 million and that On Top of the World and the World Equestrian Center are both contributing their proportionate share of the funding for the four-lane corridor that would allow residents to move north and south without having to enter Interstate 75.
Total cost for NW 49th Street –
Phase 3 project is estimated to be $27.4 million, including the roadway, water and sewer utilities. The planning and design stage is almost finished, according to a statement from the Office of County Engineer, at a cost of $1.1 million.
“Right-of-way is being acquired and is estimated at approximately $8.2 million,” according to the statement.
County officials anticipate starting construction in early 2026 and completing it by summer 2027.
BRADFORD-MA BARKER HOUSE –REQUESTED $950,000, GRANTED $237,500
The home where the most prolonged FBI shootout occurred when agents confronted the gangster Ma Barker and her son Fred was moved to the Carney Island Recreation and Conservation Area after the county
received it as a gift from new property owners who did not want to preserve it.
County leaders were seeking help for infrastructure improvements and site preparation for additional buildings, including an interpretive center that complies with ADA requirements.
According to Causey, “The county is exploring the option of submitting another appropriations request for the upcoming session to close the gap.”
The Florida State Fire College, whose rescue tower is shown in the middle of the campus, poisoned the wells of nearby homes in Lowell with the fire-retardant foam the firefighters train with. [Alan Youngblood/Special to the Ocala Gazette]
Veterans remembered
The semi-annual memorial reading event honored the lives and service of more than 50 local military personnel.
By Andy Fillmore andy@ocalagazette.com
Veterans who honorably served their county and died in recent months, including a driver in the famed World War II Red Ball Express supply delivery outfit, were remembered and honored at the Semi-Annual Memorial Reading ceremony held July 12 at the OcalaMarion County Veterans Memorial Park.
The program is sponsored by Marion County Veterans Service Office, Hospice of Marion County, the Ocala Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, the Children of the American Revolution Ocali Society and the Friends of the Marion County Veterans Park Foundation.
Veterans who passed away from October 2024 through April were memorialized.
Clinton C. Burns Sr. of Dunnellon, who passed away March 18, was a truck driver in the Red Ball Express, “a supply truck convoy… instrumental in the Allies drive through France” during World War II, according to a March 25 post on the Greater Dunnellon Historical Society Facebook page.
Burns was with Atlantic Coastline Railroad and retired from Florida Power Corp., where he helped build the Crystal River Nuclear Plant. He opened a landscape business and worked until the age of 101 and was an honorary Dunnellon police officer for 15 years prior to his passing, according to the post.
Mary Edmundson, formerly a department coordinator with the Dunnellon Police Department, now with the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, knew Burns and was aware of his World War II service. She organized a parade through downtown Dunnellon for his 100th birthday.
“He was part of the Dunnellon Police Department family and part of the family of all Dunnellon. I honor and love him,” Edmundson said in a phone interview.
Burns was married for 63 years to Idella Coston and the family had eight children. He was a man of faith and served as a deacon at the Second Bethel Baptist Church of Dunnellon and Mount Olive Missionary Baptist Church, according to the social media post.
The memorial reading ceremony
included the reading of the veterans’ names by members of the Ocala Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, accompanied by a bell ring after each name by Dave Bice, and drumming by Jonathan Hurst, the ceremony program noted.
Beverly Lafferty opened the ceremony and Tim Lafferty offered an invocation and closing benediction. Both are with Hospice of Marion County. The national anthem was sung by Kathleen Pottoff; the pledge of allegiance was led by Alexander Mills, president of Children of the American Revolution Ocali Society; and John Earl sang “Amazing Grace.” Members of the Marion County Memorial Honor Guard provided a color guard, rifle salute and playing of taps. Retired U.S. Army Col. Robert Schlegel
delivered the keynote address. Those who were honored included:
US ARMY: William E. Bishop, Richard J. Boehm, Charles R. Buchalla, Clinton Burns, Sam Butler Jr., Juan Cavazos, Ronald Ciampi, Merritt C. Fore Jr.*, Thomas L. Gensman, James F. “Bud” Gilligan, Paul N. Hall, Harrell P. “Peek” Hames, William J. Lavrich, Joseph Lazzara, Joseph R. Mayweather, Anthony C. Mazzafera, Ronald E. McMillin, Jose Montalvo, Ronald E. Neil, Walter Schlentner, Lanford T. “Lanny” Slaughter, Kenneth Smith, Thomas T. Tupps and William L. Wiseman
US NAVY: Darrell D. Anderson, David C. Anthony, Jennings B. “Jack” Bowman Jr., Thomas B. Davidson, James Dean, Jeremiah P. Holland, Francis P. Kinchen, Tajae M. Prendergast, Lonnie
Raulerson, Kenneth E. Simons, Ralph Spiller, Jean C. Spenla and Anderson R. Williams
US MARINE CORPS: Jerry Hammett, Marin F. Lenon, Edward W. Luciano, Joseph T. Shore and David A. Teichmann
US AIR FORCE: Norman Acquaviva Sr., Albert DiGiulio Jr., Douglas C. Hall, James Jones, Edward A. Mackay, Michael F. Messina Jr., Robert D. Monahan, John McMullen, John A. Oberg and Raymond L. Thompson
US NATIONAL GUARD: Raffaele “George” Pugliese
US ARMY RESERVES: Merritt C. Fore Jr.* and John F. Repass
*Served in more than one branch
Three-peat
The Florida Highway Patrol’s ‘Vette took first place in the 2026 America’s Best-Looking Cruiser contest, making it the third winner in a row.
By Andy Fillmore andy@ocalagazette.com
The Florida Highway Patrol’s sleek black and tan Corvette won the 2026 annual America’s BestLooking Cruiser contest in a close finish. The FHP ‘Vette, backdropped by the Miami skyline, will be featured on the cover of the 2026 American Association of State Troopers calendar.
This marks the third year running that an FHP vehicle has been voted the country’s favorite cruiser, according to the FHP.
The voting opened June 30 and ran until July 11, with votes involving 49 states. According to an AAST Facebook post, the Florida entry garnered 58,399 votes while the second-place entry from Michigan had 57,848 and the third-place entry, Ohio, had 25,505 votes. The contest had 1.8 million views on Facebook.
Thirteen cruisers will be featured in the calendar and all submitted photos will be published on the back cover.
FHP Col. Gary Howze stated in a press release that the cruiser competition is “a great way for our state troopers across the
nation to connect with those we serve” and is a “win is for everyone that participated.”
Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles Executive Director Dave Kerner is quoted in the release as calling the win “historic.”
“This first-ever three-peat is a credit to our team’s creativity, our agency’s mission and the thousands of Floridians who rallied behind us once again,” Kerner said in the release.
An FHP Facebook post announcing the win thanked voters and “fellow agencies” in Michigan, Oklahoma, Georgia, Alaska, Ohio, Virginia, Kentucky Maryland and Louisiana, which “made this contest exciting.”
Proceeds from sales of the calendar will benefit scholarships for the children of state troopers nationwide, according to the FHP press release.
The winning FHP car for the 2025 calendar was backdropped by the launch of a Delta IV Heavy rocket; the prior year, the winner featured a cruiser with 180-pound, 8 ½-foot long alligator in the foreground.
To order a calendar, go to statetroopers.org
The Florida Highway Patrol’s ‘Vette took first place in the 2026 America’s Best-Looking Cruiser contest. [Photo courtesy Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles]
File photos by Bruce Ackerman
U.S. Army World War II veteran Clinton Burns of Dunnellon, then 99, talks with Raymond Savoie, 94, a veteran of the same service and conflict, at the VFW Veterans Village in Fort McCoy on April 2, 2021.
Dave Bice rings a bell to remember each veteran who passed away as their names were read out loud during the Memorial Reading at the Ocala-Marion County Veterans Memorial Park in Ocala on April 6, 2024.
City election
Continued from page A1
be facing incumbent, Jay A. Musleh who says he changed his mind and would seek another term on the council for district 3.
Musleh has served on city council since 2012. When asked about his change of heart to file for another term he said he’d taken it as “a sign” that he should reconsider when the city attorney, William Sexton, called him Friday night with the news that there was a problem.
“I’ve had a lot of people ask me to reconsider my decision not to run again, and then when I realized I had another opportunity, I took it as a sign.”
Musleh retired nine months ago from a long career in banking and said he still wants to “serve a purpose.”
Clark has expressed frustration.
“It was a wild and disappointing weekend to all after the city, whose job is to assist candidates to qualify, instead disqualified all candidates. Friday, July 11th, after the qualifying period closed, I received a call from the city attorney at 6:37 p.m. to state all candidates are not qualified. Then, on Monday July 14th at 5:25 p.m., I received a call from the city attorney stating that I could file a new campaign at the city clerk’s office at 8 a.m. today. I arrived exactly at 8 a.m. and discovered that three council members and the mayor had filed their paperwork on Monday afternoon. Was this action done before the vote to close the current campaign and open a new one? Clearly the decision to file a new campaign was made by council members before the city attorney notified me after the clerk’s office closed,” Clark said.
Clark also raised questions about the strength of the quorum to vote on the new election cycle since it would impact Hilty, Mansfield, and Mayor Marciano, but especially Musleh since he didn’t file to run in the previous campaign.
“Of all the candidates, he [Musleh] would be the one to benefit the most since he doesn’t have to close a previous campaign and to redistribute funds,” Clark continued.
“For this reason, in my opinion, Mr. Musleh should also remove himself. That results in a break of quorum and a valid vote cannot then occur. Several questions arise. Can candidates file before the previous campaign was closed, and a new campaign decided upon? Normally, wouldn’t standard practice be that “If a board member is also a candidate for the same position, they would disclose their candidacy and recuse themselves from the decision process”? In my opinion, it would seem that Mr. Musleh would have a “personal interest in the outcome” of this vote. Can he be objective or impartial in this vote,” he said.
According to Clark, this is an embarrassment that may put the city at risk
of losing the trust of the community to which they represent.
“Maybe this is a time for a change,” he said.
WHY DIDN’T
THE PRIOR CANDIDATES QUALIFY?
The qualification timeline for the prior election ran from noon on July 7 to noon on July 11, but all of the candidates’ filing fees encountered some technical deficiency.
According to the State of Florida Candidate Campaign Handbook, when issuing checks from the campaign account, the campaign treasurer or deputy treasurer shall be responsible for the completeness and accuracy of the information on such check and for ensuring that such expenditure is an authorized expenditure.
Campaign checks must contain the following information:
The name of the campaign account of the candidate.
Account number and name of bank.
The exact amount of the expenditure.
• The signature of the campaign treasurer or deputy treasurer.
• The exact purpose of the expenditure.
• The name of the payee.
This information may be typed or handwritten on starter checks provided by the bank until printed checks arrive.
Usually, the qualifying period allows enough days for qualifying agents to help candidates remedy any deficiencies, but as previously reported the city says it didn’t identify the deficiencies until after the qualifying period had ended.
In the case of Gillespie and Feliciano, they delivered payment in the form of cashier’s checks instead of checks drawn on a campaign account within minutes of the cut-off deadline on July 11, so there was likely no time for them to rectify the deficiency.
However, Jenkins cashier’s check was received July 9 at 11:30 and would likely have had time to bring back another form of payment had he been informed it was not made correctly. Calls to Jenkins were not returned before publication.
In the case of Clark, Marciano and Mansfield, the candidates signed the checks instead of the campaign treasurer and hadn’t identified themselves as a deputy treasurer.
Hilty had identified himself as the deputy treasurer, so he was able to sign a campaign check but didn’t write in the memo of the check “filing fees.”
Clark, Maricano and Hilty all submitted their filing fees on the first day of the qualifying period, and Mansfield on the 9th, however, the city says they didn’t realize the deficiencies until after the qualifying period ended.
Sprouting up in Marion County
Sprouts Farmers Market opens on State Road 200 in Ocala.
By Dani Eskridge dani@magnoliamediaco.com
Sprouts Farmers Market celebrated the grand opening of its 56th and newest location on July 11 at 8430 SW State Road 200, Ocala, in the Corta Commons.
People started to line up and camp out as early as 1:30 a.m. More than 650 people attended the early morning ribbon cutting and official opening at 7 a.m.
With much excitement, the first 200 in-store shoppers received a free reusable bag filled with samples and the first 400 customers received a long stem rose courtesy of Falcon Farms Floral.
Officials said celebrations will continue all weekend with a “pop-up party” outside the store featuring seasonal produce samples, The Great Scale Showdown contest and a scavenger hunt. Store manager Stephanie Stone said
Marion County budget workshops continue July 23 and 24
Staff report
The Marion County Board of County Commissioners invites residents to attend fiscal year 2025–2026 budget workshops that began July 16 and 17 and continue July 23 and 24 at the Marion County Commission Auditorium at 601 SE 25th Ave., Ocala.
The workshops are a part of the annual budget process and offer insight into how tax dollars are allocated. County departments, program directors and constitutional officers will present their budget requests and priorities during the sessions.
All sessions will begin at 9 a.m., unless otherwise noted.
Workshops are open to the public and will be streamed live at marionfl.org/agendas
The July 23 presentations include:
• State Attorney
• Property Appraiser
• Supervisor of Elections
• Tax Collector
• Clerk of Court
• Marion County Sheriff’s Office July 24 - Agencies presenting include: Workshop Recap by Budget Director Audrey Fowler Public Defender (Michael Graves)
Marion County Health Unit (Mark Lander)
Marion County Children’s Alliance (Beth
• Early Learning Coalition (Carrie Theall)
• Marion Senior Services Transit (Jennifer Martinez)
• Historical Commission (Richard Cardinali)
• Marion Soil Conservation District (Vivi Serena)
Small Business Development Council (Dr. Philip Geist)
Guardian Ad Litem Program (Barbara Robertson)
Budget access and final hearing: The FY 2025–2026 recommended budget can be viewed via the Marion County Clerk and Comptroller’s webpage at marioncountyclerk.org/departments/ budget/bocc-budget
• The final budget will be considered for adoption during a public hearing on Sept. 24. Once adopted, the approved budget will be made available on the county’s website.
For more information, go to marionfl. org/budget
this is one of the largest grand openings she has ever seen with Sprouts.
Sprouts Farmers Market is an American specialty grocer offering a health-oriented assortment that focuses on fresh and naturally derived products. Its offerings are especially focused on produce.
“It’s all about providing healthy eating habits for people. Helping them live a healthy lifestyle, and we want to be part of that, and we want to help people on their journey,” Stone said.
“We work very closely with Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida, so as much as we can possibly donate, we’re donating, and what we’re not donating, we try to compost or recycle,” she said of the organization’s involvement with the community.
The Ocala location will be open daily from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.
To learn more, go to sprouts.com/store/ fl/ocala/sw-highway-200/
A large crowd was on hand July 11 for the grand opening of Sprouts Farmers Market on State Road 200 in Ocala. [Photo by Dani Eskridge/Ocala Gazette]
McCall)
Marion County Tax Collector George Albright, Sheriff Billy Woods, Property Appraiser Jimmy Cowan, Supervisor of Elections Wesley Wilcox and Clerk of Court Greg Harrell will make presentations for their agencies during budget meetings on July 23 and 24. [File photo by Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette]
Genetic mystery unraveled
This Ocala man, who tragically lost two sons, discovered a son and grandchildren he didn’t know he had through DNA testing.
By Margo Wilson Correspondent
Cancer claimed his son, Troy, at age 50 in 2018. Then a jet ski accident took the life of his remaining child and son, Cory, at age 39 in 2020.
To say DC Carson, 75, of Ocala, was depressed is an extreme understatement.
But one day Carson’s phone rang and his nephew, Ron Curry, was on the line with some seemingly unbelievable news. DNA tests showed that Curry was related to Mike Busby, in Tucson, Arizona. And, by the way, either Carson or Carson’s brother just might be Busby’s father.
Carson knew that, for a number of reasons, it couldn’t be his brother. But Carson also knew—or at least he thought he did—that he hadn’t been to Tucson anytime in the months before Busby’s birthdate.
Then, Carson’s sister took a 23andMe genetic test and it became pretty obvious that Carson was the answer to the question of Busby’s paternity.
Carson started thinking. And then he remembered a business trip he had taken to Tucson and a woman who wore a uniform.
Carson decided he should call Busby and tell him about the rare blood cancer that had killed Troy and about his own heart issues.
But that phone call perhaps could have been more cordial.
“It didn’t go so great,” Busby said. It didn’t seem that Carson wanted to stay in touch.
Carson explained his less-thanenthusiastic first phone call to Busby.
“I thought, ‘I can’t go through losing another child. He probably doesn’t need to lose a dad. Maybe we should leave it alone,’” Carson said.
But after a week, “I came to my senses. I decided I needed to talk to him,” Carson said.
“He called and he apologized,” Busby said. “He said he would like to get to know me better.”
They Facetimed in April 2024 and then Carson flew to Arizona and they met.
“It went super well,” Busby said.
As Busby explained, “He had just lost both of his sons. ... And getting hit with this was kind of a lot. ... But knowing that he had a son and two grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Well, it was still an opportunity to have a son. And it’s been really awesome.”
“It still is a lot to think about,” Carson said. “But hopefully, I will be around when the great-grandchildren graduate from high school. It’s like the saying, ‘It’s better to have loved and lost than to never have loved at all.’”
Since that first meeting, the two have done a lot of catching up.
For instance, Carson and his wife, D Michaels, are from Denver. Carson worked for Seagate Technology. D produced art festivals. Both are on second marriages. They met at a sushi bar. They moved to Florida to escape cold winters and
to be closer to D’s mom, who lived in Brooksville.
Meanwhile, Busby, when he was 11, learned that the man who had raised him was no longer to be considered his dad. His mother and the man, Mike Zick, were getting divorced. Busby’s two younger brothers were going to live with Zick, but Busby had to stay with his mother, Joy. His older sister was in a group home.
“I was pretty angry,” Busby said. “I flattened all his tires so he couldn’t leave.”
Busby said his mom had explained that his birth father, Larry Busby, had paid money to a young Italian woman and he had taken in Busby.
Later, after he took the genetic test that led him to Carson, Busby discovered he is zero percent Italian. He would have liked to have known that before he got “Italian” tattooed on his chest when he was 18, he said.
He’s discovered that on Carson’s side he’s English and Irish, and on his mother’s side he’s English, German and French.
He also would have liked to have known earlier about Carson.
“He and I have been cheated out of what could have been a good relationship,” Busby said. “And I didn’t get to meet my two other brothers. Sometimes people’s actions affect other people for their whole life.”
Busby said he had a rocky relationship with his mom, who worked as a hairdresser and seamstress, making wedding dresses. She also made wedding cakes. And, yes, she formerly had been in the military.
He said she kicked him out of his home at age 13 and he stayed with a friend and then with his maternal grandparents. He later lived with his mom and then went back to his grandparents. His mom and grandparents since have passed away.
Busby graduated from high school and went on to become a painter and then a project manager for a remodeling company.
Interestingly, Carson’s son, Troy, was a painting contractor. D said that’s not the only resemblance to Carson’s family as his father and Busby share the same ears— they’re big, she said. Cody Carson also inherited the family ears.
When DC saw Busby’s photo, he said he told himself, “That’s my father.” And Busby’s wife, Deanna, said, “They have the same smile, the same eyes. DC and our son walk the same way. It’s kind of crazy. It brings up the old ‘Is it nature or is it nurture?’”
Busby said that before he knew about Carson, he looked up the man whom he believed was his birth father.
That didn’t work out.
And when Carson wasn’t effusively loving during their first phone call, Busby said he thought, “Well, forget it. Nobody wants to be my dad.”
He said the call “brought up some resentment. I thought, ‘Well, that’s this guy’s loss.’”
But then Carson phoned again. And now both men can see a humorous side to their long-time non-relationship.
For one thing, the two have skipped “the turmoil of teenage head-butting,” Busby said. “Now, we’re two grown men who can enjoy each other’s presence.”
A month ago, Carson attended his new granddaughter Christina’s college graduation in Texas. Her fiancé is Daniel, and they have two children, Nylah and Emmie. Carson’s new grandson is Michael, 13.
What’s it like discovering at 75 you have a full-grown son?
“It’s a boy,” Carson deadpanned. Does he have any recommendations for people contemplating taking a genetic test and then considering whether to get in touch with potential relatives?
“Be sure you don’t have anyone in the family who’s in the witness protection program,” Carson said jokingly.
“Just be prepared. Go into it openminded. And be prepared for anything,” Busby said.
Carson said the genetic test-kit makers provide ways to contact potential relatives only if everyone agrees to it.
“Take it slow,” Carson advised about getting in touch.
Reaching out to a newly revealed relative can be “a hard thing. But it’s such a good thing,” he said.
DC Carson and his wife, D Michaels, pose with a photo of Carson’s newly found extended family at their Indigo East home at On Top of the World in Ocala on July 8, 2025. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette]
DC Carson, left, poses with the Busby family, including Michael, 13, Deanna, Mike, Christina, Daniel (Christina’s fiancée), Nylah, 12, and Emmie, 4.
DC Carson’s grandchildren, Michael Busby, 13, and Christina Busby, 33, right, are shown in this provided photo.
DC Carson, right, poses for a photo with his newly found son, Mike Busby, left, in this provided photo.
DC Carson, center, is shown in this family photo with his late sons, Cody, left, and Troy, right.
Family photos courtesy DC Carson
Leading by example
Rita Seymore, who died recently in Ocala, lived a life filled with service to her community.
By Susan Smiley-Height susan@magnoliamediaco.com
By all accounts, if you wanted something done, even if it was a “tough” assignment, Rita Seymore was your best bet.
Seymore’s list of accomplishments, many of which were indeed challenging endeavors, is quite lengthy and spans organizations ranging from healthcare to science to those involving children. Among other things, she was a key leader with the Discovery Science Center, Junior League, United Way of Marion County, the Marion County Medical Society Alliance and the Florida Medical Association Alliance.
Seymore passed away recently at the age of 76.
“She was a fascinating individual,” said Jennifer Seymore, who is married to Rita’s son Kenneth. “She was one of those people who was just incredibly intuitive. She was not a bragger, so you wouldn’t know what she was up to. And she could be tough. If you needed some bylaws rewritten… She incorporated the Girls Scouts Heart of Florida merger that was a big deal back then. She was the person you called when you needed something tough to go through, somebody who had the backbone for it. That was Rita.”
Originally from St. Louis, Missouri, Rita came to the Ocala area in 1978 with her husband, Dr. James Seymore and their children. According to Jennifer, Rita’s father, George Rupp, helped build the St. Louis Arch. Rita was educated at the University of Missouri at Columbia and Southeast Missouri State University. She was the administrator for her husband’s orthopedic practice from 2001 to 2007, a substitute teacher and reading tutor in Marion County schools and executive director of the Discovery Science Center from 1994 to 1995.
An undated newspaper article shared by Jennifer lists Rita as chairman of the board of trustees at the time and states that the science center opened in what had been the Marion Theatre, which had been donate by the Kirk family in 1986 to the city of Ocala.
“Three years later the Junior League of Ocala decided to take
on the task of bringing a science center to Ocala. A nonprofit organization called The Discovery Science Center of Central Florida, Inc., was established. With state grants to the city for renovation and a capital campaign drive by DSC, the Marion
Theater began a metamorphosis into a ‘hands-on’ science center,” the article states.
Since that time, the building once again houses the Marion Theatre and the city’s renamed Discovery Center is now located inside Tuscawilla Park.
Rita was deeply involved in Girl Scouts of America. The Girl Scouts of West Central Florida noted in a social media post that she was “a devoted champion of the Girl Scout mission and a beloved member of our council’s legacy.”
“Rita served during a pivotal time in our history—the merger of Girl Scouts of Suncoast Council and Girl Scouts Heart of Florida to form Girl Scouts of West Central Florida. Her steady leadership and passion for the Girl Scout Movement helped guide our organization through this transformational moment, laying the foundation for the strong, unified council we are today. Whether leading at the board level or uplifting her community, Rita exemplified the values that Girl Scouts hold dear: courage, confidence and character. We are grateful for the time, wisdom and heart she shared with us. Her legacy lives on in every girl whose life was impacted by her service,” the post stated.
Rita also was involved with
the Marion County Medical Society Alliance (president 1986, 2001), Florida Medical Association Alliance (president 2003), Florida Medical Association (board of trustees 2003, bylaws 2004, 2007-2011), American Medical Association Alliance (board of directors 20082009), American Heart Association, American Cancer Society and the Ocala Royal Dames for Cancer Research (founding Lauren Deiorio, currently the president/executive director of the Ocala/Marion County Community Foundation, was president of the Marion County Medical Society Alliance when Rita was elected as president of the Florida Medical Association Alliance.
“She was such a tremendous leader at the county level as well as the state level. She remained a leader in the alliance well after she finished her term as the state president. She was a wonderful leader. I learned so much from her,” Deiorio said.
Rita was involved in number of other organizations, including the College of Central Florida Foundation; the Children’s Service League, which was incorporated under her leadership into the Junior League in 1989; the Ocala Women’s Network; the Florida Department of Education Core Writing Team; Leadership Ocala Marion; Women of Worth; and Brick City Partnership. She served on Gov. Jeb Bush’s Summit on Early Childhood Cognitive Development in 2002 and his Coalition on Preventing Underage Drinking in 2003.
“Her passions were health care and children,” Jennifer said. “As she did with so many organizations, she worked her way up. She was quite behind the scenes, but the kind of person you trusted to lead something. And she encouraged others to lead and led by example.”
Speaking of children, Rita was involved with the United Way of Marion County’s ReadingPals program.
“Rita exemplified a true servant of the community. She supported many organizations throughout her life including the United Way, where she served on the board of directors from 1988-1994. Rita was a champion for the ReadingPals program at Belleview Elementary School and in the community. As a member of the ReadingPals team at Belleview, Rita provided support to kindergarteners who were struggling with foundational literacy skills. That support was delivered with a warm and welcoming smile, patience and enthusiasm. As a believer in reading as a gateway to success she worked diligently with the most challenging kindergarteners to instill the joy of reading. Many of her team members described her as a ‘supportive team member who was always smiling,’” said Jan Hathaway, director of the reading program.
Jennifer said Rita loved crossword puzzles, reading and learning new things. She was a fan of explorers Lewis and Clark, and Cleopatra, the queen of the Ptolemaic Kingdom of Egypt.
“And she was artistic. Rita had an eye for art. She loved oriental art, with a lot of Asian influences in her art. She did interior design. She even designed the house they lived in. She designed so much in her life. She had a very eclectic personality. She liked a lot of different things and she was able to weave them together in a way that was functional and made sense,” Jennifer noted.
Jennifer also said that in copies of speeches prepared by Rita there ongoing themes of “being involved and being a
SUPPORT LOCAL JOURNALISM
good citizen, like participating in the democratic process and not in a way that was caustic, in a way that didn’t polarize. She was more of an includer and the best champion you could have, especially for kids with disabilities. She really was an incredible person, and she did a lot for the community that a lot of people have forgotten about.”
Rita is survived by her husband of 56 years, Dr. James C. Seymore of Ocala; son Stephen (Deborah) of Tallahassee; daughter Andrea (Daniel Eckstein, M.D.) of St. Petersburg; son Kenneth (Jennifer) of Tallahassee; and her beloved Widget; grandchildren Schuyler, Madison, Morgan, Connor and Brynn; sister Carol Rupp of New Mexico; sisterin-law Melba Leykam (Joseph) of Nebraska; nephew Nathan Leykam (Lauren) of Minnesota; grandnephews and grandnieces Emerson, Wesley, Catherine and Eileen Leykam; and the family furbabies Otis, Henry, Poppy, Jean Luc, George, Stella Rose, Olive, Tipsy, Hermi and Seven.
“What we’ll miss as a family is her light and her laughter. Her fun…” Jennifer offered.
A celebration of life for Rita will begin at 2:30 p.m. July 19 at the Mulberry Grove Recreation Center at 8445 SE 165th Mulberry Lane, The Villages. The family will receive friends following the service. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations be made to Hospice of Marion County (hospiceofmarion. org), Girls Scouts of America (gswcf. org/en/support-us) or United Way of Marion County (usmc.org).
Rita Seymore was involved with many local organizations, including United Way of Marion County. [Submitted photo]
Among the groups Rita Seymore was involved with was United Way’s Women of Worth. [Submitted photo]
Rita Seymore was instrumental in helping to open the Discovery Science Center in Ocala. [Submitted photo]
Rita Seymore shares time with family members. [Submitted photo]
COMMUNITY NEWS BRIEFS:
New certification, county awards, traffic signal, diabetes education
By Susan Smiley-Height susan@magnoliamediaco.com
NUTRITIOUS PANTRY CERTIFICATION
Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida recently celebrated with five local community feeding partners for achieving Nutritious Pantry certifications, including Hope Lake Weir, the first partner agency to receive the recognition in Marion County.
A Nutritious Pantry is a feeding partner committed to implementing practices that support neighbors’ access, choice and use of health-conscious foods, and that can also refer people to additional resources, the news release noted.
MARION COUNTY VIDEOS EARN AWARDS
Two video series produced by Marion County have been recognized with the 2025 Achievement Awards from the National Association of Counties.
The Marion Government 101 video and podcast series explains how local government works. It covers topics such as the county commission, budgeting, local municipalities and key public services.
The Safety Matters video series, produced in collaboration with the Ocala Marion Transportation Planning Organization, promotes roadway safety for drivers, pedestrians and cyclists. Through partnerships and public education, it encourages shared responsibility in making local roads safer for everyone.
Learn more by visiting MarionFl.org/GOV101 and YouTube.com/ safetymatters.
TNEW TRAFFIC SIGNAL
he Florida Department of Transportation has installed a new traffic signal at the intersection of Southeast 58th Avenue/Baseline Road and Southeast 85th Lane/Juniper Road in Ocala. The signal is operating in flash mode and is expected to become fully operational within the coming weeks.
Drivers on SE 58th Avenue/Baseline Road will encounter a yellow flashing light to help them notice and adjust to the new signal before it is fully activated with red, yellow and green lights. Drivers on SE 85th Lane/Juniper Road will encounter a red flashing light requiring them to come to a complete stop before proceeding when safe.
FREE DIABETES SELF-MANAGEMENT CLASS
The Marion County Hospital District, is hosting a free, eight-week Diabetes Self-Management Series beginning July 23, from 4-6 p.m., through Sept. 10, at the House of Prayer Apostolic Church 2 at 12921 NW 38th Ave. Reddick.
Classes are open and free to all individuals ages 18 and older who are prediabetic, diabetic or for those who support someone with diabetes.
All participants will engage in the Diabetes Education Empowerment Program (DEEP), an eight-week curriculum designed to enhance diabetes self-care. Attendees will gain knowledge and skills to better manage diabetes, including guidance on improving eating habits, increasing physical activity, monitoring body numbers and preventing complications, the news release noted.
For more information or to register, call (352) 622-3662 or email amp@mchdt.org
DeSantis taps Ingoglia for state CFO
By Jim Turner The News Service of Florida
Gov. Ron DeSantis on July 16 appointed state Sen. Blaise Ingoglia as Florida’s chief financial officer, gaining more control over the state cabinet and potentially setting up a proxy battle in 2026 with President Donald Trump.
DeSantis called Ingoglia, a Spring Hill Republican whose social media handle is “@ GovGoneWild,” a warrior on issues such as immigration and insurance and “the most conservative senator in the state of Florida.”
“Yes, he’s got a great financial record, which is important, but I looked even broader than that,” DeSantis said during an event in Tampa. “I want to see who’s running towards these fights and who’s running and hiding. And every single time we’ve had a flash point in Florida, Blaise is running into battle.”
DeSantis added that Ingoglia, a former chairman of the Republican Party of Florida, will be a “really important voice” in the governor’s push to pass a constitutional amendment in 2026 to reduce property taxes.
The chief financial officer’s position opened this spring when former CFO Jimmy Patronis successfully ran in a special election for a congressional seat.
The CFO is one of three cabinet positions elected statewide,
along with the attorney general and agriculture commissioner.
DeSantis chairs cabinet meetings.
Ingoglia said his initial goals will include focusing on property taxes, housing affordability and reviewing local government spending.
“With the audit authority at the CFOs office, I promise you, we are going to start digging in, and we are going to start calling out some of this wasteful spending,” Ingoglia said.
But the liberal group DeSantis Watch issued a statement the same day calling Ingoglia, who has chaired the Senate Banking and Insurance Committee, an
“insurance industry lackey.”
The CFO oversees the state Department of Financial Services and also helps regulate the insurance industry.
“Floridians have been crushed by predatory insurance corporations who have been jacking up their rates and refusing to pay legitimate claims and they need a chief financial officer who will actually do the job of holding them accountable when they take advantage of policyholders,” Anders Croy, communications director for DeSantis Watch, said in the statement.
The appointment likely will
lead to a Republican primary battle in 2026 between Ingoglia and Sen. Joe Gruters, a Sarasota Republican who is running for CFO with support from Trump. Gruters also is a former state Republican chairman.
DeSantis clashed early this year with legislative leaders about immigration issues and Ingoglia was one of a few lawmakers who publicly sided with the governor. Also, amid a legislative impasse this spring about budget and tax issues, Ingoglia stood behind DeSantis’ call for cutting property taxes — an idea that did not pass.
Rep. Juan Carlos Porras, a Miami Republican, said on the social media platform X that DeSantis’ appointment of Ingoglia “has singlehandedly once again divided the Republican Party because his own ego cannot allow him to support President (Donald Trump) and his backed candidates like Joe Gruters.”
Asked about Gruters’ endorsement by Trump, DeSantis questioned Gruters’ votes on several issues and said his record is “contrary to what we’ve told the voters that we would do.”
“If George Washington rose from the dead, came back and tapped me on the shoulder and said, ‘Will you appoint Joe Gruters CFO?’ My response would be, ‘No, I can’t do that without betraying the voters that elected me to lead the state in a
conservative direction,’” DeSantis said.
Wednesday’s announcement means that two of the three cabinet positions will be held by DeSantis appointees. In February, DeSantis named James Uthmeier to serve as attorney general, after the governor appointed former Attorney General Ashley Moody to the U.S. Senate. Uthmeier had served as DeSantis’ chief of staff.
Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson, who was elected in 2024, holds the third cabinet office.
Ingoglia, a homebuilder, was first elected to the House in 2014 and moved to the Senate in 2022. He served as state Republican chairman from 2015 to 2019, a period that included DeSantis’ first run for governor.
A special election will need to be called to fill Ingoglia’s Senate seat, which represents Citrus, Hernando and Sumter counties and part of Pasco County.
Former Rep. Ralph Massullo, R-Lecanto, announced his intention to run for the seat Wednesday and quickly drew support from DeSantis and the Florida Republican Senatorial Campaign Committee.
DeSantis still needs to appoint a lieutenant governor. That office has been vacant since February, when Jeanette Nunez left to become interim president, then president, of Florida International University.
Hope Lake Weir is the first Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida food bank partner in Marion County to achieve Nutritious Pantry certification. [Submitted photo]
Longtime lawmaker Blaise Ingoglia was named state chief financial officer on July 16.
[Photo courtesy FNS/Colin Hackley]
Law targets rare pediatric diseases
The
News Service of Florida
Akey lawmaker and Florida State University leaders on July 9 touted a new law that includes offering free genetic screening for newborns and bolstering research on rare pediatric diseases.
Gov. Ron DeSantis last month signed the law (HB 907), which was unanimously passed by the Legislature in April and is dubbed the Sunshine Genetics Act.
The law creates a pilot program led by the Florida Institute for Pediatric Rare Diseases at Florida State University, with families able to choose to have their babies’ full genetic codes sequenced. The
goal is to identify potentially serious but treatable conditions early, so doctors can begin care before symptoms appear. The bill was sponsored by Rep. Adam Anderson, a Palm Harbor Republican whose son Andrew died of a rare disease at age 4.
“People are often terrified to learn that it takes on average four to five years, plus seven or more trips to specialists and overnight stays in a NICU (neonatal intensive care unit), to diagnose a child with a rare disease,” Anderson said during an event at the Florida State University College of Medicine. “Sadly, many of these children pass away before they receive any meaningful treatment at all.”
STATE SEEKS GO-AHEAD ON INITIATIVES LAW
By Jim Saunders The News Service of Florida
Attorney General James Uthmeier and Secretary of State Cord Byrd this week asked a federal appeals court to allow the state to at least temporarily enforce a law that would prevent non-Florida residents and non-U.S. citizens from collecting ballotinitiative petitions while a legal fight plays out.
Lawyers for Uthmeier and Byrd want the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals to issue a stay of a preliminary injunction that U.S. District Judge Mark Walker issued July 8 to halt the restrictions on nonFlorida residents and non-U.S. citizens. Walker ruled that the restrictions likely violated the First Amendment.
Uthmeier and Byrd appealed the preliminary injunction and filed a motion for a stay. If granted, a stay would allow the state to enforce the restrictions while the underlying appeal proceeds.
The motion, filed Monday, disputed that the restrictions violate the First Amendment, including saying they “affect conduct, not speech.”
“Neither Californians nor Colombians have a First Amendment right to collect completed citizeninitiative petitions from Floridians who wish to change the Florida Constitution,” the motion said. “The district court erred in saying that they do.”
Also, the motion said the restrictions were designed to help prevent fraud in the ballot-initiative process and pointed to out-of-state contractors and subcontractors who are paid to collect petition signatures.
“Law enforcement must thus work through a nesting doll-like setup to investigate, arrest and obtain a conviction for petition fraud,” the motion said.
In his ruling, Walker said the restrictions went too far, though he acknowledged the state “has great leeway in regulating the ballot initiative process.”
“But here, the state has categorically barred entire classes of people from participating in the core political speech that is central to this process. Moreover, the state has failed to demonstrate that this severe burden on speech is narrowly tailored to furthering its compelling interest in investigating and combatting fraud in the petition initiative process,” he wrote.
Florida Decides Healthcare, a political committee sponsoring a proposed constitutional amendment aimed at expanding Medicaid coverage, filed the lawsuit in May after the Republican-controlled Legislature and Gov. Ron DeSantis approved the law, which made a series of changes to the ballot-initiative process.
Smart & Safe Florida, a committee behind a proposed constitutional amendment that would allow recreational marijuana, and FloridaRighttoCleanWater.org, a committee proposing an amendment about access to clean water, and other groups also joined the case.
While Walker blocked the restrictions on nonFlorida residents and non-U.S. citizens, he allowed other parts of the new law to remain in effect.
State Republican leaders and groups such as the Florida Chamber of Commerce have long sought to make it harder to pass ballot initiatives, in part arguing that policy issues should be decided by the Legislature rather than through amending the Constitution. DeSantis last year led efforts to defeat proposed amendments on abortion rights and recreational marijuana.
Petition gatherers play a critical role in the process, with sponsors of ballot proposals sometimes spending millions of dollars on contractors to gather signatures. To reach the 2026 ballot, for example, supporters of initiatives must submit at least 880,062 valid signatures.
FLORIDA STATE NEWS
Under the new law, groups that “knowingly” violate the restrictions on non-U.S. citizens and non-Florida residents could face $50,000 fines and other sanctions. Petitions delivered by such people would have to be scrapped.
Walker wrote that the law would “force plaintiffs to choose between curtailing their First Amendment rights to engage in core political speech via petition circulation or risk invalidation of verified petitions, crippling civil penalties and further enforcement actions.”
But the motion for a stay said the “provisions at issue are tailored to the state’s compelling interests.”
“It’s undisputed that there’s citizen initiative fraud in Florida,” the motion said. “And it should be undisputed that it’s harder for the state to track down bad-acting non-residents, by virtue of their being outof-staters.”
BELL EXECUTED IN 1993
JACKSONVILLE MURDERS
By Jim Saunders
The News Service of Florida
Florida matched a modern-era record for executions in a year when Michael Bell was put to death by lethal injection the evening of July 15 for the 1993 murders of two people outside a Jacksonville bar.
Bell, 54, was pronounced dead at 6:25 p.m. at Florida State Prison, becoming the eighth inmate executed this year in the state. That matched the eight executions carried out in 1984 and 2014, the most since the death penalty was reinstated in 1976 after a U.S. Supreme Court decision halted executions in 1972.
Gov. Ron DeSantis also has signed a death warrant for the scheduled July 31 execution of Edward Zakrzewski, who was convicted of murdering his wife and two children in 1994 in Okaloosa County.
Tuesday’s execution came hours after the U.S. Supreme Court rejected last-ditch appeals by Bell’s attorneys. Bell was sentenced to death for using an AK-47 rifle to murder Jimmie West and Tamecka Smith as they got into a car outside the bar in December 1993.
“Thank you for not letting me spend the rest of my life in prison,” Bell said when a Department of Corrections official asked if he wanted to make a last statement.
Smith’s family released a statement after the execution, saying it was “considered somewhat of a closure,” though it said the grief “will last a lifetime.”
“The justice system may not have the capabilities of bringing back our lost loved one,” the statement said. “But, due to the acts of violence, perpetrated in an unhuman form and fashion, justice was served.”
(Editor’s note: Years of court documents have identified Smith as Tamecka Smith, though the family’s statement Tuesday used the spelling Tomecka Smith.)
Court documents said Bell was accused of killing West and Smith while seeking revenge for the death of his brother, who had been killed by West’s halfbrother, Theodore Wright, earlier in 1993. Bell did not know that Wright had sold the car to West before the shooting, according to the documents.
After DeSantis signed a death warrant on June 13, Bell’s attorneys tried to prevent the execution in state and federal courts. They focused on witnesses who, after the death warrant was signed, recanted testimony that had helped convict Bell in the murders.
For example, Henry Edwards and Charles Jones, who were witnesses during Bell’s 1995 trial, recanted testimony that they had given in exchange for favorable treatment from police on other matters, Bell’s attorneys argued. They recanted the testimony to investigators for Bell.
But during a June 23 hearing in Duval County
Rare diseases are considered to affect fewer than 200,000 people in the U.S.
“With the Sunshine Genetics program, we take a major step forward, bringing cutting-edge genomic medicine to newborns across Florida, starting from the very first days of life,” Alma Littles, dean of the FSU College of Medicine, said.
The law includes establishing a consortium to create a network of people such as geneticists and physicians at state universities and children’s hospitals to work on research and treatment.
“With just a few drops of blood, serious health risks before the symptoms appear can be detected,” FSU President Richard McCullough said. “That provides information for treatment that can save lives.”
circuit court, witnesses invoked their 5th Amendment right against self-incrimination instead of detailing the recanted testimony because of concerns they could face perjury charges.
In a petition filed at the U.S. Supreme Court, Bell’s attorneys wrote that the “spector of perjury, introduced by the state (prosecutors) and magnified by the trial court (circuit judge), deprived Bell of crucial evidence.” They argued the execution should be halted.
“Witness after witness was permitted to invoke the Fifth Amendment privilege and refuse to answer crucial questions, sabotaging Bell’s last opportunity to bring to light new evidence prior to his execution,” the petition said.
But Circuit Judge Jeb Branham, the Florida Supreme Court, federal courts and the U.S. Supreme Court declined to halt the execution. While the U.S. Supreme Court did not explain its reasoning, Justices Sonia Sotomayor and Elena Kagan supported granting a stay of execution.
Bell woke at 6:30 a.m. Tuesday and had a last meal of an omelette, bacon, home fries and orange juice, Florida Department of Corrections spokesman Ted Veerman said.
The execution process started at 6:09 p.m., when a curtain rose in the execution chamber, allowing witnesses in an adjoining room to see Bell strapped to a gurney. Bell repeatedly raised his head and looked through a window at the people in the other room. He also appeared to talk with the Department of Corrections official who oversaw the execution. Along with reporters and department officials, 22 witnesses attended.
By 6:12 p.m., Bell appeared to have lost consciousness, and a medical worker came into the execution chamber at 6:24 p.m. to check his pupils and chest to see if he was still alive. He was pronounced dead a minute later.
The state this year also executed Thomas Gudinas on June 24; Anthony Wainwright on June 10; Glen Rogers on May 15; Jeffrey Hutchinson on May 1; Michael Tanzi on April 8; Edward James on March 20; and James Ford on Feb. 13.
MAJOR RESERVOIR PROJECT
TOUTED
The News Service of Florida
Pumps were turned on July 15 to send water into a reservoir, known as the C-43 reservoir, that is part of Everglades restoration efforts. The reservoir is expected to store and manage about 55 billion gallons of runoff from the Caloosahatchee River and Lake Okeechobee.
“This reservoir will help regulate flows to the Caloosahatchee estuary, reducing damaging discharges during the wet season and providing much needed freshwater flows during the dry season,” Department of Environmental Protection Secretary Alexis Lambert said at an event Tuesday to mark the project.
The Caloosahatchee, as a river and estuary, flows from southeastern Glades County to San Carlos Bay southwest of Fort Myers. The reservoir is on 10,700 acres of former farmland west of LaBelle in Hendry County, with the cost projected at more than $600 million. Design work was completed in 2008 but required numerous updates, including to meet dam safety standards.
Senate President Ben Albritton, R-Wauchula, called the work “meaningful for the future” of Florida.
“Every single time that we can have a ribbon cutting completion of a project like this, we are one step closer to being able to provide the protection for our coastal communities, making sure that our fisheries are made healthy and bountiful for those that make their living in and around the water in these communities,” Albritton said.
Rep. Adam Anderson [Photo courtesy myfloridahouse.gov]
Expert Care That Gets to the Heart of Your Burn
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People, Places and Things Community service one stitch at a time
The Sewing Bees Club, Inc., members
By Eadie Sickler Correspondent
About 35 years ago, two women decided to get together to use their sewing skills to somehow benefit charity.
From that seemingly insignificant but altruistic beginning was born The Sewing Bees Club, Inc., which now consists of about 50 members who furnish quilted items to 26 agencies within Marion County.
The group makes quilts, pillows, stuffed animals and burp cloths, and sometimes clothes and flannel items for newborns.
Only occasionally does the group send things outside of the county, except for last year, when, because of natural and other disasters in the world, they sent 25 quilts to North Carolina, 25 to north Florida and 25 to war-torn Ukraine.
In 2023, 839 quilts were made and donated. Last year, the group donated 1,003 quilts. They are on track to exceed that figure this year.
The group consists of mostly women, but men also are involved and are welcome to join the group, which is open to residents of the On Top of the World community. About a dozen members are “snowbirds,” so aren’t involved during the summer season. The group became an official 50l(3) (c) nonprofit organization in February of 2023.
Becoming a nonprofit helps the group tremendously, said group president Ann Gallo.
“It allows us tax-exempt status and allows us to accept donations and solicit funds and supplies,” she explained. “The Sewing Bees Club was thrilled this year to be the featured charity on a nationwide podcast by Cutter Pillar, which is a high-end quilting supply company, and in May of this year received the Accolade Celebrations Ovation Award for service to the community.
The Sewing Bees’ mission is to provide comfort primarily for disadvantaged children and others. For example, children just starting in the Head Start pre-kindergarten program in the school system are each given a quilt. The school system provides the number of quilts needed for this endeavor.
“This year, 68 kids in Head Start received quilts,” Gallo said. She said the Head Start program is for children from low-income families, to give them a good start in the basics of the education system.
“Our main goal has always been children,” Susie Clauson, vice president of the group, added.
Many of the agencies the group serves are for those are experiencing homelessness and victims of domestic abuse and their children. Gallo said several of the agencies are for homeless teen mothers and teens at risk of sex trafficking. Quilts are given to local law enforcement agencies to be given out for things such as a fire, car accident or the removal of a child from their home.
The group currently is working on making Christmas quilts and stockings, which are stuffed with essential items for children from ages 5 through teens. They provide about 100 to 150 of the stockings annually.
Clausen said that last year, children within the Interfaith Homeless Division “all got quilts for Christmas. Eight children lived there and got that gift for Christmas morning.”
craft a variety of items that are shared with 26 local agencies.
Rolanda Jacobovitz, treasurer of the group, shared that the current manager of one of the agencies in the county that is served by the club was once a child who received a quilt from the Sewing Bees, making that more significant for her.
“It’s the heart of the people who donate to us,” Jacobovitz said.
Member Deanna Smith pointed out, “We do this as a community effort, but it is more. It gives each of us here a purpose
and a sense of belonging. The members are great company.”
Mary Wright, a seven-year member of the group, has made at least 1,200 pillows and embroidered them. Other members often stuff and sew them closed.
Gallo was quick to point out that members do not have to know how to sew or quilt to belong to the group.
“Some people cut fabric, others layout the designs, some use the sewing machines to sew
squares together, some add the backing, and they are tied by hand. We all sew together and there is a great camaraderie among the members,” Gallo noted.
Ann Marie Fedele rounds out the group’s volunteer leadership as secretary. Essential to the organization of the group’s endeavors is Susy Eleazer, who is the “keeper of the closet,” where all the materials and completed quilts are stored. Eleazer updates it regularly for seasons and for what group and purpose the finished quilts will serve.
“We couldn’t function well without her constant overall care of goods,” Gallo said.
“With the closing of Joann Fabrics, we are struggling to find reasonably priced children’s fabrics. As a 501(c)3 nonprofit, we accept fabric and financial donations and gift cards to Hobby Lobby and Michaels stores,” Gallo added.
The group can be reached by email at sewingbeesclub@ gmail.com or on their Facebook page at fb.com/ groups/4860383434073850
“On the Facebook page, you can follow us and see all the beautiful items we make and donate,” Gallo noted.
Carol Avery, left, and Rolanda Jacobovitz, show finished quilts.
Members of the Sewing Bees Club pose for a group photo.
Michele Baker sews a quilt during a meeting of the club.
Mary Wright works on a Christmas quilt during a meeting of the Sewing Bees Club at On Top of the World in Ocala on July 10.
Sewing Bees President Ann Gallo, center, looks over sewn items with members Dwight Bartholomew, left, and Jake Jacobs.
Marilyn Whitford, left, and Susy Eleazer, stack finished quilts in a closet.
Susie Clauson, the club’s vice president, sews a quilt on a sewing.
Photos by Bruce Ackerman
Master
burger cooking in time for grilling season
Juicy, mouthwatering, hamburgers are a warm weather staple that taste perfect right off the grill. Everyone can benefit from having a tried-and-true burger recipe in his or her repertoire when entertaining a backyard full of guests or enjoying a cozy weeknight meal with the family.
Many things constitute a great burger, including flavorful meat, the right ratio of fat content, a crispy roll or bun, and fresh, cold toppings and condiments. That’s all guaranteed and more in this recipe for “The Great American Hamburger and Cheeseburger” from “Mastering the Grill: The Owner’s Manual for Outdoor Cooking” (Chronicle Books), by Andrew Schloss & David Joachim.
By Susan Smiley-Height susan@magnoliamediaco.com
Watching actors perform a classic play can be one of life’s great pleasures. And, in this case, you can do it the setting of your own choosing.
Unboxed Productions, an onlineonly theater company, will present Oscar Wilde’s “The Importance of Being Earnest” on July 24, 25, 26 and 27. The actors are directed live with costuming, props and backdrops. The audience members and actors have an opportunity to meet virtually after the show.
The cast includes local talent, including Dave Schlenker and Bruce Seaman, as well as actors Brittni Kather of Mississippi, Diana Grogg and Keira Jacob from California, Jessicah Nichole from Oregon, Carita Gilmore of Washington state, Lee Tilson of Michigan and Erin McGrew from Texas.
The director, Jan Thomas, is from Indianapolis. Thomas and Kim Lynette Sandstrom, of Ocala, are the co-founders of Unboxed Productions.
“It is estimated that approximately 3,500 audience members have seen UP productions in the last five years. UP has produced approximately 20 full productions since their creation,” Sandstrom noted in a news release.
Unboxed Productions began during the pandemic, bringing a hybrid-style of
The Great American Hamburger and Cheeseburger (6 servings)
2 pounds ground beef chuck, 85 percent lean
5 Tablespoons ice-cold water
1 Teaspoon ketchup
1⁄2 Teaspoon ground black pepper
Oil for coating grill grate
12 Slices good-quality American, provolone, or cheddar cheese
(optional)
6 hamburger buns, split
1. Heat the grill to 425 F for gas or achieve light ash for charcoal or light ash for wood.
2. Using your hands, mix the beef, water, ketchup, and pepper in a bowl until well blended; do not overmix.
Using a light touch, form into 6 patties no more than 1 inch thick. Refrigerate the burgers until the grill is ready.
3. Brush the grill grate and coat it with oil. Put the burgers on the grill, cover and cook for 7 minutes, flipping after about 4 minutes, for mediumdone (150 F, slightly pink). Add a minute per side for well-done (160 F).
4. If you are making cheeseburgers, put 2 slices of cheese on each burger 1 minute before the burgers are going to be done.
5. To toast the buns, put them cutsides down directly over the fire for the last minute of cooking.
6. If serving the burgers directly from the grill, serve on the buns. If the burgers will sit, even for a few minutes, keep the buns and the burgers
separate until just before eating.
The best garnishes for burgers are the classics: a slice of ripe beefsteak tomato, a mound of sautéed onions, a leaf of romaine lettuce, a dollop of coleslaw, or a
Have a recipe you would like to share? Email us at recipe@ocalagazette.com
Creativity born of chaos
The pandemic and a health challenge led to this online-only theater company, which will live-stream an Oscar Wilde play from July 24-27.
theater, performed for a live audience, streaming online only. As the pandemic wound down, Sandstrom and Thomas, best friends for decades, decided they had “something” that would have meaning for those who were challenged with mobility issues.
“In other words, if you are unable to drive, walk or stand long, UP provides a fully accessible theater experience, from the comfort of both the actor’s and the audience member’s home,” according to the news release.
Sandstrom noted that in past shows, they used actors who were in wheelchairs or unable to stand or walk for any length of time. This flexibility included those unable to drive to rehearsals. What surprised her and Thomas was that “this flexibility and accessibility appealed not just to older, retired theater lovers, but to young ones who were very comfortable with watching online and loved that commuting to rehearsals was now a thing of the past,” the release explained.
This was never more relevant than when Sandstrom, in late May of 2024,
suddenly lost five inches of her spine in a matter of weeks, due to a collapsed vertebrae and 14 broken vertebrae and a broken sacrum, according to the provided materials.
At the time, she thought that would be the end of her lifelong journey in theater. She said she was told there was no surgery suitable for her condition and was advised to go into palliative care. After weeks of hospitalization, Sandstrom, a mother of five who is a disabled veteran, said she utilized VA physical therapy and began to stand and walk again.
By August, she began directing former pastor and board member Bruce Seaman in “Plato’s Apology” from her home hospital bed. There were times she could only speak in a whisper as her oxygen was compromised due to collapsed vertebrae. She thought about giving up, but reminded herself of the creative endeavor she and Thomas had organized, she shared in the release.
“The Importance of Being Earnest” is a quick paced, witty comedy and commentary on British social mores
and manners in the Victorian age. Set in July in merry old England, Jack and Alergnon entangle themselves with Cecily and Gwendolyn only to be upbraided by hysterically “proper” Lady Bracknell, the release stated.
The performances of “The Importance of Being Earnest” will take place at 7 p.m. EST on July 24 and 25 and 2 p.m. EST on July 26 and 27. Links are secured by a suggested donation of $15, through gofundme.com/f/unboxedproductionskim
According to the release, Unboxed Productions will give a portion of net donations from this show to Disarming Love. It's directed by Denise Miller and provides support to children and families of the incarcerated.
The theater company is always looking for actors, directors and others to help with productions.
To learn more, go to unboxedproductions. org or email info@unboxedproductions.org
Submitted photos
Brittni Kather, from Walnut, Mississippi, will play Cecily in the Unboxed Productions performance of “The Importance of Being Earnest.”
The role of Miss Prism will be performed by Erin McGrew, of Dallas, Texas.
Local actor Bruce Seaman will play Jack in the production.
The role of Lane will be played by Ocala’s own Dave Schlenker.
Family first
The Wilkinsons believe in more time together, with less emphasis on technology and lots of outdoor activities.
By Marian Rizzo Correspondent
Pete and Emily Wilkinson live by the adage, “The family that plays together stays together.”
As soon as their children started coming along, the Wilkinsons started making family activities a priority. Today, they have six kids—13-year-old triplets, Abigail, Bradley and Caleb; Rebecca, age 10; Titus, 7; and Elizabeth, 5. On any given day, the Wilkinson family might be out biking, hiking, camping or canoeing.
“We fit into two canoes. This year we went camping for a week. My husband especially loves fishing and boating. Florida is a beautiful state. There’s so much to do here. We also do gardening. Some of my children love to garden and have their own plot,” Emily said.
In a world dominated by technology and independent lifestyles, the Wilkinson children don’t have cell phones or play virtual games on a tablet. Emily said she believes that nothing interferes with family activities as much as screen time.
“It’s so popular today, but it’s really, really hurting our children,” she said. “I don’t know when we will give our children a phone. Since they don’t have those things, it causes them to be more creative. It requires them to use their imaginations, to come up with what they want to do, and it helps create individual interests. They’re not just staring at a screen. They have to come up with things on their own. Abigail is making bookmarks with pressed wildflowers, and she makes jewelry. The youngest two are very creative with crafts. And they all like to go to the Reilly Arts Center to hear the symphony.”
According to the Pew Research
Center, three-quarters of U.S. adults rate spending time with family as one of the most important things to them personally. Americans of every age group rank family time, physical activity and being outdoors as one of the most important things or are very important to them personally, the website states.
A large family is rather new to Pete and Emily.
“We each only have one sister. My sister is 12 years older than me, so I’m pretty much an only child, which is why I wanted to have a large family,” Emily noted.
As the senior pastor of Oak Crest Baptist Church, Pete also believes, “the
family that prays together stays together.” He said that over the years, he has learned to juggle his responsibilities at church with the care and nurturing of his family.
“One of the things about being a pastor is, I have lot of flexibility. I’m able to do a lot of preparation for sermons late at night or early in the morning. That frees up most of my time during the day. If I don’t have meetings, I have family days. I’ve learned to guard the time with my family, so I make it a priority,” he shared.
Besides saying grace at mealtimes, the family starts and ends each day with prayer and Bible readings. Pete said his guiding passage of scripture comes from Deuteronomy 4:6, known as the Shema, which says, “Teach these things to your children.”
As for academics, the children are homeschooled. Emily said it’s worked out well, with all of them maintaining their correct grade level in nearly every subject.
According to the National Home Education Research Institute, home-educated students typically score 15 to 25 percentile points above public school students on standardized academic achievement tests.
The site also suggests that home-educated students are typically above average in social, emotional and psychological development.
“We’ve always been on a schedule from the beginning,” Emily explained. “While I’m working with someone else, two of my triplets are teaching my younger ones how to read. Reading is really important to my family. My husband reads to my children before we go to bed. Some sit on the couch and some sit and play with blocks on the floor. We like to read the Bible together in the morning during breakfast. We pray together. The children take turns praying at meals, and Pete always prays for the family at night.”
But do the children feel they are missing out on anything? Not at all, said Abigail. Besides schoolwork and household chores, she plays the flute, has friends at church and enjoys outdoor activities with her brothers and sisters.
“I’m never alone,” she remarked. “I never get left out by my siblings. I always have someone to play with.”
Photos by Bruce Ackerman
The Wilkinson family, from left, Rebecca, 10; Abigail, 13; Emily; Caleb, 13; Titus, 7; Pete; Elizabeth, 5; and Bradley, 13; ride bikes on the Banyan Road Trailhead in Silver Springs Shores on July 10, 2025.
Elizabeth Wilkinson, 5, gets some help putting her helmet on from her mother, Emily.
The Wilkinson triplets, Abigail, Bradley and Caleb, enjoy spending time with each other.
Paris is always a good idea –even in summer
Few cities can even come close to Paris when it comes to cultural, artistic, and historic heritage. And few residents are as confident as Parisians in their expertise in good living. While that uniquely French joie de vivre can be enjoyed throughout the year, I’d like to talk about Paris in the summer.
An old travel mantra tells you to avoid Paris in summer, when its citizens traditionally go on vacation. Sure, it’s hard to get a dentist or find an accountant at work. But, to be honest, it’s the tourists’ Paris that the tourist is looking for … and the Paris I’m after is in full swing in July and August.
For the benefit of Parisians who do stay in town – and the countless tourists who visit through the summer –France’s ministry of culture sponsors plenty of action including an entertaining Summer Festival for three weeks in July (www.parislete.fr). Its diverse programs – dance, theater, concerts, acrobatics, and installations – take place all around the city, and many are outdoors and free.
During the summer, the Seine River, which has replaced the busy arterials that once lined its banks with a green and inviting riverside park, is filled with life. Landscaped promenades, tailor-made for strolling and biking, rather than traffic jams, now line the riverbanks. I love spending a balmy summer night just downstream from Notre-Dame, where there’s an engaging people zone with an open-air art gallery, music, and salsa dancing.
Parisians have the habit of spilling onto the river’s bridges and embankments to enjoy the early evening hours. It’s the perfect time to share a simple picnic with friends. Join in—for the cost of groceries and a bottle of wine, you can enjoy a gourmet spread with ambience that no restaurant can touch.
If you’d rather toss a Frisbee than ponder the river’s reflections, head to the one-mile stretch of the Right Bank (just north of Ile de la Cité) where the city government trucks in potted palm trees, hammocks, and lounge chairs to create colorful urban “beaches” from mid-July through mid-August. With climbing walls, “beach” cafés, stylish swimsuits on parade, volleyball courts, and trampolines, it’s an ideal place to see Paris at play – and to play with Paris.
If you enjoy the Fourth of July in the US, you’ll love Bastille Day in France—which is ten days later. July 14, the country’s national holiday, is celebrated in towns big and
small all over France. And Paris goes all out: There’s a big parade down the Avenue des Champs-Elysées, concerts galore, and fireworks lighting up the sky over the Eiffel Tower. Later in July, the hugely popular Tour de France bike race culminates in the center of Paris. Summer also means sightseeing and art after dark: Some museums and sights – such as the Eiffel Tower – keep longer hours, and others host special summer-only events. In nearby Versailles, summer Saturday nights offer a cool array of gushing fountains, lighted displays, and fireworks. King Louis XIV had his engineers literally reroute a river to fuel his fountains and feed his plants. Even by today’s standards, the fountains are impressive.
Paris’ many lovely parks work overtime in summer as playgrounds for all ages. The sprawling Esplanade des Invalides is just right for afternoon lawn bowling (boules). Puppet shows, pony rides, rental toy sailboats, and a merrygo-round enliven the Luxembourg Garden. A temporary amusement park pops up at the Tuileries Garden, complete with a huge Ferris wheel. An open-air cinema at Parc de la Villette screens films in their original language with French subtitles on many summer nights (no charge if you sit on your own blanket, www.villette.com).
While the big formal music venues such as the opera go on vacation in summer, the city keeps making music. The Paris Jazz Festival swings its hip beats among the spacious lawns and gardens of Parc Floral (https:// festivalsduparcfloral.paris), and the city’s many old churches do double-duty as venues for chamber music concerts.
I like seeing the City of Light after dark, lacing together the iconic floodlit sights on a DIY taxi (or Uber) tour, or on a boat cruise – or even by bike. While Paris is enthusiastically bike-friendly, for tourists, the easiest option is to join a bike tour (try Fat Tire Bikes, www.fattiretours. com). Seeing the Eiffel Tower sparkle in the night sky is an unforgettable way to cap any Parisian day.
Sure, summer in Paris requires patience and flexibility. It’s peak tourist season, and it’s hot. City buses can be like rolling greenhouses. If you neglect to make advance reservations, you’ll swelter in lines at the Eiffel Tower or Louvre. But for the thoughtful and well-prepared traveler, summer in Paris can be a fine time to enjoy such a great city so in love with life and expert at enjoying it.
SERIOUSLY SIMPLE
What is inflammatory bowel disease?
DEAR MAYO CLINIC: I’ve had stomach issues my whole life, and it seems like my trips to the bathroom are becoming more frequent lately. I’ve heard of IBD. What is it? What are its symptoms? What can help me if I am diagnosed?
ANSWER: Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic inflammatory condition that usually impacts the gastrointestinal tract. IBD is an umbrella term for either ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease, which are two different conditions with similar origins and inflammatory processes that affect the gastrointestinal tract. Ulcerative colitis involves inflammation along the superficial lining of the large intestine (colon) and rectum while Crohn’s disease involves inflammation and ulcers that can involve the deeper layers of the digestive tract. This can affect anywhere from the mouth to the anus, but most commonly affects the last part of the small intestine and/or the colon.
Symptoms are variable and may sometimes be nonspecific, but the most common symptoms that patients experience are diarrhea, bloody stools and abdominal pain. Some patients might experience fatigue, fever, unintentional weight loss and joint pain. In some cases, patients develop extraintestinal (organs beyond the intestines) manifestations which can affect different organs in the body such as the eyes, skin, joints or liver.
Most people with IBD are diagnosed before their 30s, but some won’t develop the disease until their 50s or older. To diagnose someone with IBD, a patient presents their symptoms to their primary care clinician or gastroenterologist, who takes a thorough history to try to better understand how long the symptoms have been going on. This would lead the healthcare professional to order further testing, which can include an endoscopic evaluation such as a colonoscopy. Biopsies taken during a colonoscopy are needed to confirm a diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease.
Currently, there is no cure for inflammatory bowel disease. However, there are many treatment options, including medical, surgical and dietary interventions that can help. The goal of treatment is remission, which means eliminating all the inflammation and getting back to what looks like a normal colon or intestine. The treatment options we use differ from patient to patient depending on the severity and location of the disease. The decision on treatment is shared between the healthcare team and the patient.
Leaving inflammation untreated can lead to further complications. For example, if someone has persistent inflammation in their colon, that increases the risk for colon cancer. If someone has Crohn’s disease, they’re at increased risk of persistent inflammation causing something called strictures, which is narrowing in the colon or small intestine. Whenever there is a narrowing, it increases the risk of bowel obstruction, which would require surgery to help the bowels open up. This is why we are diligent in getting the right treatment to the patient and getting them to remission.
When it comes to IBD, diet is a question on everyone’s mind. We do not have a specific diet for IBD, but we know that focusing on anti-inflammatory foods and antioxidants and avoiding processed foods, which can cause inflammation, is beneficial. One diet that I always recommend to most of my patients is the Mediterranean diet. The Mediterranean diet is a well-balanced diet that has a lot of anti-inflammatory products and antioxidants in it, so it could be very beneficial for patients who have IBD. Talk to your healthcare team about what is right for you.
Grilled sausages with caramelized onion compote, my Seriously Simple summer staple
Diane Rossen Worthington Tribune Content Agency
This is the dish I often serve in the summer. I make up a double, sometimes triple batch of the onion compote and have it ready for simple barbecues. You can purchase sausages that are uncooked or precooked, which will vary the cooking time. It is important to make sure the sausages are cooked through, and you can check this by cutting into them and making sure there is no pinkness that remains and that the juices run clear.
We have such a large variety of sausages at our markets now. Most of these packaged creative sausage combinations are precooked, making it simple to barbecue and serve. You can find just about any flavor combination you can imagine. How about artichoke and garlic, chicken and apple, habanero and green chile, sun-dried tomato or roasted pepper with corn? These are just a few of the varieties available. I like grilled veal and pork bratwursts for their juicy rich flavor. The precooked sausages are worth seeking out for their excellent flavor and quick cooking time.
I like to set out an assorted selection of condiments to be served on the side. Put out bowls of mustard, chili sauce or ketchup, pickle relish and, of course, the onion compote. The onions and leeks soften and become sweet and slightly tart (with the wine and vinegar) and have a fresh, herbaceous finish. If you don’t have time
to make your own, pick up coleslaw and potato salad at the market to accompany the sausages. Or throw some husked corn ears right on the barbecue to serve alongside. You can serve these sausages with or without buns. I like brioche buns, if you can find them. You can also serve grilled bread on the side. Make sure to have some ice-cold beers on hand
If you have onion compote left over, use it as a condiment to scrambled eggs or grilled steak. Add it to cheese for an exceptional grilled cheese sandwich or in a grilled quesadilla. It is also scrumptious smeared on grilled French baguette and topped with soft goat cheese.
GRILLED SAUSAGES WITH CARAMELIZED ONION COMPOTE
Serves 6 to 8
For the compote:
1/4 cup olive oil
2 medium leeks, cleaned, white part only, finely chopped
2 large red onions, finely chopped
3/4 cup red wine
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon finely chopped thyme leaves
Salt and freshly ground white pepper 12 bratwurst or other sausages of your choice, (about 2 1/2-3 pounds), sliced in half horizontally, if desired 12 hot dog buns or French bread slices, optional
1Heat oil in a large non-aluminum casserole on medium high heat. Add leeks and onions; saute for about 10 to15 minutes or until well softened. Stir frequently.
2Add wine, balsamic vinegar and sugar to the onions; simmer on low heat until almost all the liquid has evaporated. The onions should be very tender and slightly caramelized. Add thyme, salt and pepper. Taste for seasoning. Cool and serve at room temperature. (You can also reheat this and serve warm). This will last a week in your refrigerator tightly covered.
3Prepare a barbecue for medium-high heat grilling. Grill the sausages for about
3 to 4 minutes on each side or until browned all over and the juices run clear. To serve, place 3 or 4 sausage halves on each plate and spoon some relish on the side of the plate. Serve with or without a bun or bread. Place the condiments on the side.
Nothing says summer like a grilled sausage. CREDIT: (Chris Shorten/TCA).
Paris' riverside promenade is fine for strolling, biking, or just soaking up the summertime ambience. CREDIT:(Rick Steves, Rick Steves' Europe).
THE FRUGAL TEACHER:
Using apps to save money—Part 1
By Christy Jones Special to the Gazette
In this technological age, everyone has a smartphone—yes, even your great-aunt, who still calls email “electronic mail.” While we could debate the pros and cons of carrying a miniature supercomputer around 24/7, I’d rather focus on something more exciting: free stuff. In the next few weeks, I’ll be diving into how you can use free, easy-todownload apps to save money in all areas of your life. So, grab your phone (you already have it in your hand, let’s be honest) and get started.
Using apps to save money is easier than you’d think. There’s a tiny bit of setup—yes, making a new account for each one might feel like applying for a job—but once you’re in, it’s smooth sailing. The apps I’ll recommend all pass three important tests:
1. I’ve personally downloaded and used them (you’re welcome).
2. They actually save you money (no “exclusive offers” that mysteriously cost more).
3. They work right here in town (no need to drive across county lines for a free iced coffee).
RESTAURANT APPS
If you haven’t dipped your digital toes into restaurant apps yet, you’re missing out on a glorious world of discounts, rewards and free food that tastes even better because it’s free. Let’s start with the reigning champion: the McDonald’s app. I have saved more money with this app than I care to admit publicly. Each visit allows me to take advantage of BOGOs, freebies and deals so good you wonder if Ronald McDonald personally approved them. You just open the app, give the four-digit
code at the drive-thru and voilà—reward points start rolling in. Other apps I’ve used and trust are Subway, Zaxby’s, Popeye’s, Little Caesars, Burger King, Dunkin’ and Hardee’s. Each offers a slightly different flavor of savings (and possibly cholesterol), but they all share one goal: making your wallet a little fatter while your fast-food bag gets heavier.
GAS APPS
My parents recently discovered the Circle K app and the joy on their faces when they saved 25 cents per gallon was unmatched. It was like they were told they looked 10 years younger—confused at first, then absolutely glowing. What I love about Circle K’s Inner Circle rewards is the simplicity. Just punch in your phone number at the pump and boom—discounted gas. You get 25 cents off per gallon for your first five fill-ups
and after that you still save 3 cents on each gallon (which adds up if you drive anything thirstier than a scooter). Other gas stations also want in on this savings game—Wawa, Shell, Exxon and Racetrac all have rewards apps. Because, apparently, nothing says “we value your loyalty” like 3 cents off a gallon and the occasional free coffee or fountain drink.
So, there you have it—just a few taps on your phone can lead to serious savings. Whether you’re grabbing dinner on the go or filling up the tank, these apps do the heavy lifting while you enjoy the rewards. And the best part? This is just the beginning. In Part 2, we’ll tackle grocery store apps— because saving money on gas and fast food is great, but saving on everything else you actually need—even better. Let’s make our phones earn their high dollar price tag a
few cents at a time, shall we?
Visit frugalteacherlife.com for more
Marion County 4-H teams earn top honors
The students excelled in the Florida 4-H State Horticulture Identification and Judging Contest.
[Submitted
By Susan Smiley-Height susan@magnoliamediaco.com
Marion County intermediate and senior 4-H teams recently took top honors in the Florida 4-H State Horticulture Identification and Judging Contest.
The contest provided an opportunity for the youth to demonstrate their skill and knowledge in identifying and judging a wide variety of fruits and nuts, vegetables, flowers/foliage and ornamental plants, according to Crystal McCazzio, the UF/IFAS Extension Marion County Extension Director.
“Forty-two youth from 10 counties across the state competed in the event, which challenged their plant science knowledge with more than 140 plant specimens to identify and judge. The intermediate team was comprised of Forest DeRoy, Hudson Varnadoe and Jack Goodson. The senior team consisted of Gracelynn Wicker, Aleigh Jo Hicks, Brooke Sakuta and Hunter Varnadoe, and they will represent Florida at the National Junior Horticultural Association annual convention in October in Baltimore, Maryland,” McCazzio noted in an email message.
The NJHA provides opportunities for teens to promote horticulture, youth, careers, education and leadership. The youth leadership team is comprised of multiple Marion County 4-H members, including Lane Taylor as president and Jeremiah Caswell and Kylie Goodson as directors, she added.
McCazzio said the Florida 4-H Horticulture Contest is supported by the UF/IFAS Plant Science Department, the Florida 4-H Foundation and the 4-H Plant Science Action Team. Wendy Wilber, statewide Master Gardener volunteer coordinator, and the plant specialist and extension team of Jeff Williamson, Tom Wichman, Marc Frank, Lisa Strange, Jeremy Rhoden and Cynthia Nazario-Leary, organized the state event.
“4-H is a community of young people across America learning leadership, citizenship and life skills. As one of our nation’s oldest, yet most current organizations, 4-H is reaching millions of young people with positive youth development opportunities,” McCazzio noted.
To learn more, go to sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/ marion/marion-county-4-h
I’m Christy Jones, aka The Frugal Teacher,
The Marion County 4-H intermediate and senior team members, along with youth coaches and their Cloverbud, are, front row, Wiley Boop, Gracelynn Wicker, Brooke Sakuta, Aleigh Jo Hicks and Kylie Goodson, and back row, Hunter Varnadoe, Jack Goodson, Jeremiah Caswell, Forest DeRoy and Hudson Varnadoe.
photo]
Government
JULY 21 AND 28
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.
AUG. 5 AND 19
Marion County Board of County Commissioners
McPherson Governmental Campus Auditorium, 601 SE 25th Ave., Ocala
9am
The commission meets the first and third Tuesday of the month. Agendas, minutes and video are available at marionfl.legistar.com/calendar.aspx
Ocala City Council
Ocala City Hall, 110 SE Watula Ave., Ocala
4pm
The council meets each first and third Tuesday of the month. Agendas and minutes are available at ocala.legistar.com/calendar.aspx
Belleview City Commission
Belleview City Hall, 5343 SE Abshier Blvd., Belleview
6pm
The commission meets the first and third Tuesday of the month. Agendas, minutes and video available at belleviewfl.org/200/agendas-minutes
JULY 22, AUG. 12
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
AUG. 13
Dunnellon City Council
Dunnellon City Hall, 20750 River Dr.
5:30pm
The council generally meets the second Wednesday of the month. Agendas, minutes and video are available at dunnellon.granicus.com/ViewPublisher.php?view_id=1
JULY 28 AND 31, AUG. 26 AND TBA
State of the County presentations
Various locations and times
Marion County Commission Chairman Kathy Bryant will be presenting four State of the County presentations that are open to the public and which include updates on public safety, roadways, infrastructure, economic development and upcoming projects. For details, go to marionfl.org/soc
Community Arts
Activities at Fort King Fort King National Historic Landmark, 3925 E. Fort King St., Ocala Thursdays through Aug. 14
6-8pm
The Summer Night Lecture Series is free and open to all ages:
• July 24 – Protecting Wildlife Through Sustainable Pest Control with Mikayla Frierson
July 31 – Florida’s Seminole Agents with Dr. Joe Deklinski
• Aug. 7 – The Life and Legacy of William King with Historian Dale Cox Aug. 14 – Native Plant Uses in History with Amanda Marek, University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences For more information, call (352) 401-6980 or visit fortkingocala.com
JULY 24
Summer Job Fair
Howard Academy Community Center, 306 NW Seventh Ave., Building 3, Ocala 5-7 p.m.
The job fair is hosted by CareerSource Citrus Levy Marion in collaboration with the Marion County Hospital District and its Community Home Project. The event is free and open to all job seekers whether they live in Citrus, Levy, Marion, neighboring or other counties. For fastest access on the day of the job fair, those planning to attend are asked to register at bit.ly/SUMMERJOBFAIR2025. Prior to attending the event, job seekers are encouraged to complete a full registration at employflorida.com or update an existing registration. Participants are also urged to dress appropriately, bring printed copies of a current resume and be prepared to discuss skills and qualifications with hiring managers. For more information and updates on participating businesses, call 800-434-JOBS or visit careersourceclm.com/calendar.
AUG. 1 AND 2
Friends of the Ocala Public Library book sale Library headquarters, 2720 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala Aug. 1, for Friends members (memberships available at the door), 1:30 pm-3:30 pm Aug. 2, open to the public, 10 am-2 pm Proceeds of the sale will benefit children and adult programs, materials, audio and ebooks, and staff development at Ocala main, Reddick, Fort McCoy and Sankofa branches of the Marion County Public Library system. All children’s books and paperback books are 25 cents each and all hardbacks are 50 cents each. Cash and check only.
AUG. 9
First Gen 5K
Baseline Road Trail, 4255 SE 58th Ave., Ocala
7:30am Eduardo Diaz, a collegiate cross-country runner at Stetson University, and his sister, Ximena Diaz, a cross-country team captain at West Port High School, both first-generation students, have organized the inaugural First Gen 5K. Proceeds will benefit causes that support first-generation students, including the Vida Valiente Foundation, First Generation Foundation and select local scholarships for students in Marion County. To register for the run, go to runsignup.com/Race/FL/Ocala/FirstGen5K. To learn more, email firstgen5k@gmail.com and find @FirstGen5K on Instagram.
JULY 18-20
Beetlejuice Jr. Ocala Civic Theatre, 4337 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala Times vary Lydia can’t catch a break. Her mom’s dead. Her dad’s in denial. And now they’ve moved into a haunted house with its very own demon and a pair of dead newlyweds. Great. Not loving the new living tenants, the ghosts try to scare the family away from their happily-ever-afterlife. But Beetlejuice is a double-crossing demon with a scheme and being dead has its perks in this frightfully funny musical. Daylight come and… it’s showtime! Get tickets at ocalacivictheatre.com
JULY 18
In the Air Tonight: A Music Celebration of Phil Collins & Genesis Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE 9th St., Ocala 7:30pm Experience the ultimate tribute, led by Rick Snider. From global stages to Las Vegas residencies, Rick brings decades of powerhouse performances to this live show. Get tickets at reillyartscenter.com
JULY 19
Natalie Cuomo Marion Theatre, 50 S Magnolia Ave., Ocala 7:30pm Natalie Cuomo is an internationally touring standup comedian. Her debut album “Shut Up You Loved It,” released by The Stand Comedy Club Records, debuted at #1 on the iTunes comedy charts. Natalie can be seen on “Ink Master: No More Ink!” Season 16 on Paramount Plus. She was named a finalist in the New York Comedy Festival’s “New York’s Funniest” Competition in 2024 and one of the festival’s “Comics To Watch” in 2023. Learn more at mariontheatre.org
THROUGH JULY 20
Marion Cultural Alliance “y-ART” Sale
Brick City Center for the Arts, 23 SW Broadway St., Ocala Gallery hours: Tuesday–Friday, 10am to 5pm; Saturday, 11am to 4pm
The sale features artwork, jewelry, prints, photographs, memorabilia and more, offered at discounted prices. Sponsored by Revival – Brick City Market, this event invites the public to discover creative treasures while supporting the local arts community. Learn more at mcaocala.org
JULY 24-27
“The Importance of Being Earnest” Streaming online Times vary
Unboxed Productions presents the comedy of errors, manners and mores by Oscar Wilde. The play is directed by Jan Thomas, co-founder of UP, an online-only theater company. Actors are directed live with costuming, props and backdrops. Audience and actors meet after the show. Audience members may make a suggested donation and receive a link to the show through UP’s gofundme page. Disarming Love, a nonprofit for children of the incarcerated will be a beneficiary. To learn more, go to unboxedproductions.org or email co-founder Kim Sandstrom at info@unboxedproductions.org.
JULY 25
An Evening with Here Come The Mummies Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE 9th St., Ocala 7:30pm For the “Terrifying Funk from Beyond the Grave” performance, this eight-piece band of 5,000-year-old Egyptian mummies delivers a wild, high-energy show packed with funk, rock and pure mayhem. Learn more at reillyartscenter.com
THROUGH JULY 25
Summer Kids Film Series
Marion Theatre, 50 S Magnolia Ave., Ocala Times vary Movies will be screened every Wednesday, Thursday and Friday at 10am, 11am, 12:30pm and 1:30pm each day. The series is sponsored by Ocala Electric Utility and Panzer Medicine. Tickets are $5 for adults and children. A summer snack pack is included for children 12 and under. Guests are encouraged to bring new or gently used books, particularly for children from birth to age 5, to support the Early Learning Coalition. To learn more and get tickets, go to reillyartscenter.com/summer-kids-film-series
JULY 26
Dueling Pianos
Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE 9th St., Ocala 6pm Grab a seat at a café table in the new NOMA Black Box and enjoy dueling pianos, cocktails and an evening of fun with friends. Performing sing along classics of soft rock and pop that spans decades. Guests will be seated at tables of four or six, so bring friends or meet someone new. Get tickets at reillyartscenter.com
JULY 26
Dueling Pianos Late Night Show
Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE 9th St., Ocala 9pm Unleash your wild side on the dance floor as pianists engage in hilarious and unpredictable musical mash-ups while cocktail servers dish up favorite drinks. Get ready for a night of laughter, outrageous requests and a high-energy, adults-only atmosphere. Learn more at reillyartscenter.com
AUG. 1-30
“Art of Aging” Gallery of Gratitude” exhibit
Brick City Center for the Arts, 23 SW Broadway St., Ocala Tuesday- Friday, 10am to 5pm; Saturday 11am to 4pm Art of Aging is an annual collaborative partnership of Marion Cultural Alliance and Marion Senior Services that celebrates aging through art, stories and education. The alliance invited members of the creative senior community ages 55+ to submit artworks in any medium that relates and interprets this year’s theme. Admission to the gallery is free. To learn more, go to mcaocala.org or call (352) 369-1500.
AUG. 6
Art of Aging 2025 | Lunch & Learn: The Healing Power of Writing Brick City Center for the Arts, 23 SW Broadway St., Ocala 11:30am Join Amy Roberts, a licensed clinical social worker and certified mindfulness meditation teacher for the Robert Boissoneault Oncology Institute, to explore how writing can be a therapeutic tool for self-expression and healing. Admission is free and a light lunch will be provided for registered guests. Limited spots are available, so registration is required to attend.
THROUGH JAN. 18
“The Human Pulse: Photographs by John Elliott” Appleton Museum of Art, 4333 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala The exhibit features 42 black-and-white prints from the Ocala-based photographer’s ongoing series, “The Human Pulse,” shaped by his life and travels across 32 countries. His photographs reflect a dreamlike vantage point: floating somewhat above, sometimes even at a great distance, but still connected to the moment. Learn more at appletonmuseum.org
THROUGH SEPT. 1
Blue Star Museums free admission for military veterans Appleton Museum of Art, 4333 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala Hours vary Through Labor Day, the annual Blue Star Museums program will provide free admission to currently serving U.S. military personnel and up to five family members. Blue Star Museums is a nationwide initiative led by the National Endowment for the Arts and Blue Star Families, in collaboration with the Department of Defense and museums across the country. Free admission is available to those currently serving in the United States military, including the Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marine Corps, Navy and Space Force, as well as members of the Reserves, National Guard, U.S. Public Health Commissioned Corps and NOAA Commissioned Corps. Eligible participants must present ID. To learn more, go to appletonmuseum.org/visit/ plan-your-visit/blue-star-museums/
Catch mummies on stage in Ocala on July 25. [Photo courtesy Reilly Arts Center]
Siblings Eduardo and Ximena Diaz have organized a running event to support firstgeneration students. [Submitted photo]
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.
BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST RUTH E. EGGING, and UNKNOWN TENANT(S), Defendants. NOTICE OF ACTION TO: RUTH E. EGGING, DECEASED, AND THE UNKNOWN HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, OR OTHER CLAIMANTS CLAIMING BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST
RUTH E. EGGING
YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action for foreclosure on the following property in Marion County, Florida: LOT 31 PARCEL D, OF ON TOP OF THE WORLD, FURTHER DESCRIBED AS PHASE 1A SECTION 2A, PER PLAT
THEREOF RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 4, PAGES 110-122 OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA. PA#3530-0231004. Subject to the Declaration of Covenants, Restriction, Easements, Charges and Liens recorded in O.R. Book 2407, Page 1533 of the Public Records of Marion County, Florida. PARCEL ID NO.: 3530-0231004
(“Property”) Property Address: 9224 Southwest 93rd Circle, Ocala, Florida 34481 A Lawsuit has been filed against you and you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, on or before 30 days after the
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA
Case No.: 2025-1635-CP
IN RE: THE ESTATE OF BETTY KATHERINE WALKER, Deceased./
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of BETTY KATHERINE WALKER, deceased, whose date of death was July 15 , 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for Marion County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 110 Northwest First Avenue, Ocala, Florida 34475. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. 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 sections 732.216-732.228, Florida Statutes, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under section 732.2211, Florida Statutes. 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 THREE (3) MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR THIRTY (30) DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN THREE (3) MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS AND DEMANDS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of the first publication of this Notice is July 11, 2025
Personal Representative: LINDA SUE FULFORD 540 NE 53 rd Street Ocala, FL 34479
Attorney for Personal Representative: JANET W. BEHNKE Florida Bar No. 135969 Janet W. Behnke, P.A. 500 NE 8 th Avenue Ocala, FL 34470
Phone: (352) 732-6464
Facsimile: (352) 867-5111
janet@behnkelaw.net
RABIN PARKER GURLEY, P.A. 2653 McCormick Drive Clearwater, Florida 33759
Telephone: (727)475-5535 Counsel for Plaintiff For Electronic Service: Pleadings@ RPGLaw.com Gregory C. Harrell, Clerk of Court BY: DEPUTY CLERK Copies Furnished to : Gregory Allen Fox, Esquire Fox & Fox, P.A.
Tenant
Southwest 93rd Circle
Florida 34481
Unknown Heirs, Devisees, Grantees, Assignees, Creditors, Lienors, Trustees, or Other Claimants claiming by, through, under, or against Ruth E. Egging (Deceased), 9224 Southwest 93rd Circle, Ocala, Florida 34481
Notice is hereby given that the School Board of Marion County, Florida, will meet on July 29, 2023, at 5:30 p.m., at the School Board Administration Office, 1614 E. Ft. King Street, Ocala, Florida, 34471. An agenda will be published seven days prior to the meeting. The agenda may be obtained at the Administration Office between the hours of 8:00 a.m.
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA. IN RE: THE ESTATE OF GREGORY G. COOK, Deceased. CASE NO: 2025-CP-1764 NOTICE TO CREDITORS The name of the decedent, the designation of the court in which the administration of this estate is pending, and the file number are indicated above. The address of the court is 110 N.W. 1st Avenue, Ocala, FL 34475. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are indicated below. If you have been served with a copy of this notice and you have any claim or demand against the decedent’s estate, even if that claim is unmatured, contingent or unliquidated, you must file your claim with the court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF A DATE THAT IS 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER YOU RECEIVE A COPY OF THIS NOTICE. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons who have claims or demands against the decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, must file their claims with the court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT SO FILED WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. EVEN IF A CLAIM IS NOT BARRED BY THE LIMITATIONS DESCRIBED ABOVE, ALL CLAIMS WHICH HAVE NOT BEEN FILED WILL BE BARRED TWO YEARS AFTER DECEDENT’S DEATH. The date of death of the decedent is: April 26, 2025. The date of first publication of this Notice is July 11, 2025. The personal representative or curator has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent’s death by the decedent, or the decedent’s surviving spouse, is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act, as described in sections 732.216 – 732.228 F.S., applies, or may apply unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under section 732.2211, F.S.
Attorney for Personal Representative: JOSHUA L. MOSES Richard & Moses, LLC Florida Bar No. 119304 808 E Fort King Street Ocala, FL 34471 (352) 369-1300 Primary Email: Josh@RMProbate.com
Personal Representative: AVA L. BRENISER 984 Sharon Court Middlebury, IN 46540
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA. IN RE: THE ESTATE OF MICHAEL A. FOWLER, Deceased. CASE NO: 2025-CP-1498
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The name of the decedent, the designation of the court in which the administration of this estate is pending, and the file number are indicated above. The address of the court is 110 N.W. 1st Avenue, Ocala, FL 34475. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are indicated below. If you have been served with a copy of this notice and you have any claim or demand against the decedent’s estate, even if that claim is unmatured, contingent or unliquidated, you must file your claim with the court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF A DATE THAT IS 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER YOU RECEIVE A COPY OF THIS NOTICE.
All other creditors of the decedent and other persons who have claims or demands against the decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, must file their claims with the court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT SO FILED WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. EVEN IF A CLAIM IS NOT BARRED BY THE LIMITATIONS DESCRIBED ABOVE, ALL CLAIMS WHICH HAVE NOT BEEN FILED WILL BE BARRED TWO YEARS AFTER DECEDENT’S DEATH.
The date of death of the decedent is: April 21, 2025. The date of first publication of this Notice is July 11, 2025.
The personal representative or curator has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent’s death by the decedent, or the decedent’s surviving spouse, is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act, as described in sections 732.216 – 732.228 F.S., applies, or may apply unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under section 732.2211, F.S.
Attorney for Personal Representative: JOSHUA L. MOSES Richard & Moses, LLC Florida Bar No. 119304 808 E Fort King Street Ocala, FL 34471 (352) 369-1300 Primary Email: Josh@RMProbate.com
Personal Representative: SELENA FOWLER 684 Marion Oaks Manor Ocala, FL 34473
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA IN RE: ESTATE OF ELLAWESE HAMPTON, DECEASED, CASE NO.: 2025-CP-1714
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of Ellawese Hampton, deceased, whose date of death was December 28, 2024, 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 name and address of the personal representative and the personal representative's attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent's estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent's estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. The personal representative or curator has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent's death by the decedent or the decedent's surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in sections 732.216-732.228, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under section 732.2211. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT'S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The first date of publication of this notice is July 11, 2025. Attorney for Personal Representative, Caleb V. Smith, Esq. The Florida Legal Advocacy Group, P.A. 445 NE 8th Ave., Ocala, FL 34470 FL Bar No.: 1008368 Tel: 352-732-8030 Fax: 888-399-3129 cs@FlagOcala.com
Personal Representative, Lee Hampton, 1014 Savannah Court Gallatin, TN 37066
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA. IN RE: THE ESTATE OF MICHAEL A. SMITH, Deceased. CASE NO: 2025-CP-1489
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The name of the decedent, the designation of the court in which the administration of this estate is pending, and the file number are indicated above. The address of the court is 110 N.W. 1st Avenue, Ocala, FL 34475. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are indicated below. If you have been served with a copy of this notice and you have any claim or demand against the decedent’s estate, even if that claim is unmatured, contingent or unliquidated, you must file your claim with the court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF A DATE THAT IS 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER YOU RECEIVE A COPY OF THIS NOTICE.
All other creditors of the decedent and other persons who have claims or demands against the decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, must file their claims with the court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT SO FILED WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. EVEN IF A CLAIM IS NOT BARRED BY THE LIMITATIONS DESCRIBED ABOVE, ALL CLAIMS WHICH HAVE NOT BEEN FILED WILL BE BARRED TWO YEARS AFTER DECEDENT’S DEATH.
The date of death of the decedent is: May 7, 2025.
The date of first publication of this Notice is July 11, 2025. The personal representative or curator has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent’s death by the decedent, or the decedent’s surviving spouse, is property to which
Attorney for Personal Representative: JOSHUA L. MOSES Richard & Moses, LLC Florida Bar No. 119304 808 E Fort King Street Ocala, FL 34471 (352) 369-1300
Primary Email: Josh@RMProbate.com
Personal Representative: ROBERT L. SMITH 26730 NW 46th Avenue Newberry, FL 32669
Broom Hilda
Middletons
Home-grown, home-shown
The
locally produced film
By Susan Smiley-Height susan@maganoliamediaco.com
Swamps.
Mysteries.
Bigfoot.
The locally produced film “The Big Hammock” explores all of those and it will have a special free screening at the Ocala Drive-in on July 29.
On that Tuesday, the gates will open at 7 p.m., there will be a live podcast at 8 p.m. and the movie will start at 9 p.m. The event will mark the 14th anniversary of John Watzke reopening the iconic venue.
Watzke said Travis Cecil, the owner of SFN Productions, contacted him about possibly showing the film.
“After talking to him, I realized that we were very close to the 14th anniversary of me running the drive-in. It’s all local talent, filmed in Ocala, so I decided it might be a good idea to do a free showing that night, kind of a customer appreciation thing, and let everybody see a local film here at a local landmark,” Watzke said.
The “Gazette” did a Q&A with Cecil, who also was the colorist for the film, to learn more about the people involved.
Who are the other key people in this project?
Cyrious Films owner Malcolm Cyr, director and editor; Cl Visuals owner Colin Lutterloah, executive producer; Chaz Webb, producer; and location scout Zac Sherer.
How did this movie come about? Malcolm Cyr had an idea and a working outline of what the film could be. Planning took place mid-2023, after the outline was created. He contacted longtime friend and writer Jake Cannet. Jake took Malcolm’s outline and drafted a workable script that took numerous re-writes to lock in while the shooting script production started to take place in August of 2023. It consisted of seven months of table reads.
Malcolm had a vision of what it would take to create the world in which The Big Hammock lived. Malcolm then recruited every friend he had. Going into this film, Malcolm had to train each friend to become an on-screen actor. Shooting would take place one year after the script and training was completed. After that, Malcolm would spend the next year filming and editing what would become his first feature film and later become “The Big Hammock.”
In a nutshell, what is it about?
After a string of animal mutilations in The Big Hammock, Game Warden Wayne is thrust
‘The
Big Hammock’ will have a free special showing at the Ocala
Drive-in.
into the shocking world of Bigfoot speculation. Meanwhile, a famous podcast crew ventures into The Big Hammock to finally get footage of the elusive creature. Things take a turn for the worst when they stumble upon something they should’ve never seen. Take an intense journey into a Central Florida swamp and discover a world full of twists you weren’t expecting.
Who are the actors?
Malcolm Cyr, Jake Cannet, Zac Sherer, Damon Vitale, Chris Unger, Sarah Cannet, William Comber, Brandon Mobley, Melanie Harrah, Chaz Webb, Charlie Webb, Rene Webb, Izek Pace, John Lapaille, Jessie Jernigan,
Drew Eubanks, Sebastian Qualls, Juan Gonzalez, Trish Fash, Argenis Rivera, Courtney Cannet and Darren Vitale.
Where was it filmed? Ocala, Ocklawaha, Anthony and Indian Lake.
How long is it? 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Where has it been shown? The Epic Theater in Ocala sold out 300 seats in the XL room; the Twin City Opera House in McConnelsville, Ohio; and now the Ocala Drive-in. Watzke said the drive-in “has been here since 1948. It closed for a few years in the early 2000s and then I reopened it on July 29, 2011.”
“Back in the heyday, there were over 6,000 of us in the country. We’re now under 300. In 2011, there were nine in Florida and now were down to four. We’re part of a dying breed,” he said.
“But we’re part of American history. I tell people all the time, the walk-in theater is a movie, the drive-in is a memory. You talk to somebody about a movie and if they saw it at a walk-in theater they will tell you, ‘Oh, yeah, I’ve seen that movie it was good.’ If they saw it at a drive-in, they’ll tell you which one, what kind of vehicle they were driving, who was with them, the whole story,” he noted.
Watzke said one reason the Ocala Drive-in remains viable is that is an affordable option for family entertainment.
“And a lot of people come for my menu,” the native of New Orleans added in his signature drawl.
“We have a complete section of the menu dedicated to New Orleans (N’awlins, as he says it). I have a catfish platter, a seafood platter, Po Boys and a Muffuletta, which is the signature sandwich of New Orleans. I have all my breads shipped in from a bakery out of New Orleans,” he noted. Normally, when guests visit the drive-in, they are asked to purchase a $10 food voucher per vehicle to help support the business. For the showing on the 29th, that will be waived, “but we do ask that people not bring in outside food and that they do visit our concession stand, which makes things like this special event possible,” Watzke said.
To learn more about the film, go to thebighammock.com
For information about the theatre, go to ocaladrivein.info
On View Through January 18
HUMAN PULSE THE
The movie poster for “The Big Hammock.” [Submitted photo]
John Watzke is the owner of the Ocala Drive-in. [File photo by Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette]
Director Malcolm Cyr as Lobo the Hobo in the film. [Submitted photo]
This movie still shows William Comber, Jake Cannet, Brandon Mobley, Izik Pace and Melanie Harrah. [Submitted photo]
Actor Damon Vitale, in a scene from “The Big Hammock.” [Submitted photo]
Government advisory board vacancies
Staff report
Consider having your voice heard in local government by helping out on a volunteer board. Your experience and knowledge can influence governmental decisions and help you, your fellow citizens and local government. It gives you an inside look at the governmental systems and lets you participate more closely in your community.
These are the current vacancies for various boards in the cities of Marion County and the county itself.
CITY OF BELLEVIEW:
The city’s general link is: belleviewfl.org/151/BoardsCommittees
The general application document is: https://www. belleviewfl.org/DocumentCenter/ View/39/City-Board-ApplicationPDF?bidId=
Youth Council
Several vacancies are open for members the 2025-26 school year
Description: The Belleview Youth Council is a leadership and civic engagement program designed to connect local high school students with their community through education, service and hands-on experiences. Open to students in Belleview and the surrounding area—including those enrolled in public, private or homeschool settings—the council offers an opportunity to learn about local government, develop leadership skills and make a positive impact in the community. During these sessions, members engage directly with city and county leaders, department heads and staff to explore how municipal government functions. Activities include facility tours, Q&A sessions and discussions on civic responsibilities and public service.
Meetings are held monthly at 4:30 pm, starting Sept. 25. Dates are on the webpage: For more information, visit belleviewfl.org/202/YouthCouncil
CITY OF DUNNELLON:
The city’s general link is: dunnellon.org/government/ boards-commissions
Historic Preservation Board
1 vacancy for 2nd alternate member term
Description: The purpose of the board is to promote and preserve educational, cultural and economic welfare of the public. The board has established uniform procedures to preserve the city’s historic resources by enhancing public participation and involvement in the preservation and protection of such resources, including buildings, structures, monuments and other historic resources. In keeping with its purpose, the board has developed the Application for Historic Preservation Grant Facade Renovations. Interested person(s) should complete the application and submit to the Community Development Department for submission to the Board.
Meetings are held on the third Tuesday of each month at 5:30 pm.
For more information, visit dunnellon.org/government/ boards-commissions/historicpreservation-board
Planning Commission
2 vacancies for regular members (terms ending July 14, 2027 and Jan. 11, 2028), 1 vacancy for second alternate member (term ending January 9, 2026)
Description: The commission has an administrative review function whereby it reviews all changes to the City’s Comprehensive Plan, by amendment, evaluation, addition
and appraisal for consistency with the existing Comprehensive Plan and reviews all land-related/ zoning ordinances to determine consistency to the Comprehensive Plan. The commission holds quasi-judicial hearings with regards to land planning/ zoning cases, site plan reviews, variances, special exceptions and review/appeal of administrative orders, and forwards its findings/ recommendations to the City Council.
Meetings are held on the second Tuesday of each month at 5:30 pm.
dunnellon.org/government/ boards-commissions/planningcommission
CITY OF OCALA:
The city’s general link is: ocalafl.gov/government/citydepartments-a-h/city-clerk/ boards-and-commissions
The City Council appoints individuals to serve on over 20 boards, advisory committees and commissions. These volunteers are from all over Ocala, and their experience, knowledge and expertise help influence decisions affecting the city by providing advice and feedback to city leaders and council.
If you have questions, contact clerk@ocalafl.gov or call the Office of the City Clerk at (352) 629-8266. The main page is ocalafl.gov/government/citydepartments-a-h/city-clerk/ boards-and-commissions and each board has its own page and application link.
All are welcome to submit an application for consideration to a board or commission.
Many boards have specific requirements, such as living within the city limits, being a qualified city voter or owning real property within the city limits. These requirements, if any, are detailed for each board on their page.
Board of Adjustment
Description: The board considers applications for zoning variances and special exception considerations for business and residential construction projects within the Ocala city limits. Hear and decide appeals where it is alleged there is error in any order, requirement, decision or determination made by the building official in the enforcement of the zoning code (chapter 122), authorize special exceptions as provided in the zoning code authorize variances as provided in the zoning code.
Vacancies: 2 current vacancies, terms run to March 1, 2028.
Size: 7 Members
Term Length: 4 years
Term Limit: n/a
Brownfields Advisory Committee
Description: The purpose of the advisory committee is to promote and receive public comment on the identification, rehabilitation and redevelopment of identified Brownfield sites. The committee shall provide guidance in areas such as land use, employment opportunities, development proposals, community safety and environmental justice. The committee consists of 11 members appointed by the
Ocala City Council from boards, committees and organizations primarily representing West Ocala.
Vacancies: 3 current vacancies, terms running through March 1, 2028 and 2029.
Size: 9 Members
Term Length: 4 years
Term Limit: n/a
Downtown Redevelopment
Advisory
Committee
Description: The committee shall advise the Community Redevelopment Agency on redevelopment efforts of the established subarea pursuant to Chapter 163, Part III, Florida Statutes. The Downtown Ocala Redevelopment Advisory Committee shall consist of seven members appointed by the CRA Agency and City Council from property owners and organizations representing Downtown Ocala.
Vacancies: 2 vacancies for terms ending March 1, 2027 and 2029.
Size: multiple members
Term Length: 4 years
Term Limit: n/a
East Ocala Redevelopment Subarea Advisory Committee
Description: The committee is appointed as an advisory board to the CRA Agency and City Council for the area defined as the East Ocala Redevelopment Subarea. The committee shall advise the CRA Agency and City Council on redevelopment efforts of the established subarea pursuant to Chapter 163, Part III, Florida Statutes.
Vacancies: 1 vacancy for term ending Mar 1, 2029.
Size: multiple members
Term Length: 4 years
Firefighters’ Retirement System Board of Trustees
Description: The sole and exclusive administration of, and the responsibility for the proper, effective operation of the retirement plan is vested in a board of trustees. The board shall consist of five persons; two firefighters elected by the firefighter members of the plan. Two trustees shall be residents of the city appointed by City Council. The fifth member of the board shall be chosen by a majority of the other four members of the board and appointed by City Council as a ministerial act.
Form 1 Financial Disclosures are required to be submitted annually to the Florida State Ethics Commission.
Vacancies: 3 terms ending Oct 4, 2025
Size: 9 Members
Term Length: 3 years
Term Limit: n/a
Term Limit: n/a
Historic Preservation Advisory Board
Description: The board oversees the historic resources of the city and advises City Council and city departments on matters relating to these resources, as well as manages Certificates of Appropriateness for properties located within the Tuscawilla Park and Ocala Historic Districts. Make recommendations to city council for matters relating to historic resources in the city changes to designated resources; attend pertinent informational or educational meetings, workshops and conferences; advise on development of goals, objectives and policies for historic preservation; advise city departments on matters relating to historic resources in the city; advise individuals
on preservation of historic structures; educate public on economic benefits of same; and submit annual report to SHPO covering annual activities.
Vacancies: 1 current vacancy for an architect, term expired
Size: 9 Members
Term Length: 3 years
Term Limit: n/a
Municipal Code Enforcement Board
Description: The Code Enforcement Division enforces codes that pertain to zoning laws, nuisance abatement, contracting and permitting requirements of the city of Ocala and the State of Florida, occupational licenses, sign codes, alcohol location permits and many other local ordinances and State Statutes. The Municipal Code Enforcement Board hears cases relating to code violations. Examine code violation cases presented by City Code Enforcement Officers. Empowered to levy fines and place liens on property if, violation is not corrected.
Vacancies: 2 current vacancies for alternate members
Size: 7 Members
Term Length: 3 years
Term Limit: n/a
Police Officers’ Retirement System Board of Trustees
Description: The board is responsible the administration and operation of the retirement plan for the city of Ocala Police Officers.
Vacancies: 2 terms ending Aug. 6, 2025
Size: 7 Members
Term Length: 2 years
Term Limit: n/a
West Ocala Redevelopment
Advisory
Committee
Description: The committee shall advise the CRA Agency and City Council on redevelopment efforts of the established subarea. The committee is appointed as an advisory board to the Community Redevelopment Agency for the area defined as the West Ocala Redevelopment Subarea. The committee shall advise the CRA on redevelopment efforts of the established subarea pursuant to Chapter 163, Part III, Florida Statutes. Meets at least two times per year.
Vacancies: 1 current vacancy for term ending March 1, 2029
Size: 9 members
Term Length: 4 years
Term Limit: n/a
MARION COUNTY
These are volunteer positions and have specific qualifications and criteria depending on the board’s focus. The county commission appoints members in regular BOCC meetings.
An online application can be downloaded here: marionfl. org/my-commissioners/ advisory-boards and can be printed or saved as a PDF. Email completed forms to commissionadmin@marionfl. org upon completion. Applications can also be obtained at the Marion County Board of County Commissioners’ Office at 601 SE 25th Ave., Ocala, or by calling (352) 438-2323.
Board of Adjustment
Description: The board considers applications for zoning variances and special exception considerations for business and residential construction projects within the Ocala city limits. Hear and decide appeals where it is alleged there is error in any order, requirement, decision or determination made by the building official in the enforcement of the zoning code
(chapter 122), authorize special exceptions as provided in the zoning code authorize variances as provided in the zoning code. Vacancies: 1 vacancy, term through May, 2028.
Size: 7 Members
Term Length: 4 years
Term Limit: n/a
Code Enforcement (1 full member, 2 alternate members – Terms expire February 2026, August 2026 and July 2028)
Qualifications/restrictions: Members shall be residents of Marion County.
Responsibilities : Members should have experience or interest in zoning and building control, and shall, whenever possible, be in the field of architecture, engineering, general contracting or subcontracting. Members shall have the power to adopt rules for the conduct of its hearings; subpoena alleged violators and witnesses to its hearings; subpoena records, surveys, plats and other documentary evidence; take testimony under oath; issue orders having the force & effect of law, commanding whatever steps are necessary to bring a violation into compliance and establish and levy fines pursuant to county ordinance. Members are required to e-file Form 1 (Statement of Financial Interest) with the Florida Commission on Ethics.
Hills of Ocala MSTU Advisory Council (1 full member – Term expires May 2029)
Qualifications/restrictions: Applicants must reside within the boundaries of the MSTU.
Responsibilities: May participate in the preparation of the annual budget, make recommendations regarding capital expenditures, operations, programs, staffing and proposed budget increases or decreases. Provide information and assistance to residents of the district and the county regarding district business. Provide a forum for residents of the district and other interested parties to discuss district business.
Rainbow Lakes Estates MSD Advisory Council (2 full members – Terms expire May 2027 and December 2028)
Qualifications/restrictions: Applicants must be registered electors residing within the Rainbow Lakes Estates Municipal Service District.
Responsibilities: Members serve three-year terms. The committee submits a letter to the county commission requesting ratification of the MSD Advisory Council members elected by the residents of RLE.
Tourist Development Council
(1 full member – Term expires February 2026)
Qualifications/restrictions: Applicants must be registered Marion County voters with an interest in tourism development and/or be owners or operators of lodging subject to the tourist development tax.
Responsibilities: Make recommendations to the County Commission on the effective use of tourist development tax revenues. The TDC meets at least once a quarter and may make recommendations to the county commission for the effective use of the tourist development tax revenues.
