School Give Back Pg A9
Protecting seniors
About $1 million is stolen every month from local victims of elder fraud.
By Andy Fillmore andy@ocalagazette.com
An 82-year-old Ocala woman lost $7,300 in cryptocurrency in an internet and phonebased scam last year and nearly lost $160,000 in cash, which she had converted to gold for pickup by the scammers.
The gold theft plot was foiled by a well-placed tip and diligence by detectives from the Marion County Sheriff’s Office Major Crimes Unit and Homeland Security.
The scam began with a computer hack and an on-screen message to call a number to
reach a technician to fix the hack, according to an arrest affidavit.
Soon after the hack and “repair,” a “bank officer,” supposedly from a major bank, called and informed the victim that her bank account had been compromised and that funds from
See Protecting seniors, page A6
Marion County is third in state for juvenile detention days
By Jennifer Hunt Murty
Marion County detains juveniles for more days than every other Florida county except for Duval
and Broward, despite having a smaller population. Some officials think the pace has been set to be first in the state.
Detentions of Marion County juveniles at the Marion County Juvenile Detention
Center have quadrupled since 2022-23, and the cost to Marion County taxpayers for incarcerating juveniles has risen more than three times from $1.3 million annually to $4.3 million, according to data
from the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice.
By contrast, juvenile detention stays statewide increased from 191,813 to 309,453.
See Juvenile detention, page A2
Local judicial system feels the strain of population growth and limited state funding
By Jennifer Hunt Murty jennifer@ocalagazette.com
Marion County’s judicial system will likely see two new judges soon, one each in circuit and county court, but the system still faces mounting pressure as rapid population growth drives up court filings and state funding for critical support positions lags.
At a budget workshop with the Marion County commissioners and court officials on July 17, leaders described a system stretched thin by a surge in cases and a lack of state-provided staff to support newly appointed judges.
“The Legislature, the governor, approved 39 new judges and they’re all going to be appointed,” said Jeffrey Fueller, Court Administrator for the Fifth Judicial Circuit. “But they didn’t give us any case managers or staff to support the judges.”
Even with the time involved for the state to set up judicial nominating committees and for the governor to review their recommendations, Fueller said he hoped the new judges would be in place during the 2025-26 budget year.
Marion County has seen a dramatic increase in circuit court filings, with nearly 5,000 more cases than neighboring Lake County, despite similar rates of population
See Judicial system, page A7
A lifetime of service
Frank Rasbury spent decades serving his country and supporting his community.
By Susan Smiley-Height susan@magnoliamediaco.com
If anyone in Marion County ever needed a “go-to” guy, they very likely thought of Frank Rasbury.
The tall and stately Rasbury, always armed with a bright smile, has long been a familiar figure throughout Ocala and Marion County. As a retired U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel, he was integral
to many area veterans’ groups. As a devoted community advocate and volunteer, he helped numerous organizations achieve success. Rasbury passed away on July 24, at the age of 97, in Ocala. He was born on March 6, 1928, in Buffalo, New York. After graduating from high school in 1946, he attended Los Angeles City College and the University of California at Los Angeles. He was a member of Kappa Alpha
Psi fraternity. He enlisted in the Army in 1951 and served for more than 20 years. He was in conflicts in Korea and Vietnam and earned a number of medals, including the Bronze Star. He had a civilian career in New York that included 11 years as executive director for the Nassau County Chapter of the American Red Cross. It was there that he was
See Frank Rasbury, page A4
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Frank Rasbury at the Rotary Arbor in Tuscawilla Park in Ocala. [Photo by Meagan Gumpert, MAVEN Photo + Film]
The Marion Regional Juvenile Detention Center is shown on Northwest 10th Street in Ocala, Fla. on Tuesday, July 29, 2025. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette]
Juvenile detention
Continued from page A1
For the 2025-26 budget year, the DJJ projects that the number of juvenile detention stays at the Marion County Juvenile Detention Center will be twice as much as this year, and the cost will climb from $2.7 million to $4.3 million.
Although the Marion County Juvenile Detention Center holds juveniles for other counties as well, the DJJ parcels out Marion County’s participation in their analysis to issue bills based on county participation.
During a recent budget session, Marion County Commissioners questioned why there has been such a dramatic increase in this area, especially when compared to other counties in the state.
Clerk of Court Greg Harrell said Marion is currently third in the state and rising. Commission Chair Kathy Bryant asked staff to obtain to year-to-date juvenile detention numbers to get an idea of whether this was a continuing trend.
The greater number of detention stays didn’t correlate to increased juvenile criminal filings in Marion County. According to the Clerk of Court’s office, those totaled 984 in 2022-23; 1,001 in 2023-24; 872 in 2024-25; and 38 so far in 2025. The state’s budget year starts July 1.
One new element over the last two years is the assignment of Circuit Judge Brad King to the juvenile docket. Prior to being appointed as a judge, King served as the state attorney of the Fifth Circuit for 30 year and worked as a law enforcement officer. King and court administration did not return requests for comment about the uptick in detention days.
The commissioners sought an explanation from Fifth Circuit State Attorney Bill Gladson and Public Defender Michael Graves during their respective budget meetings.
GRAVE’S TAKE
Graves said everything is compressed in the juvenile justice system. If a juvenile is being held in detention, the state has 21 days to act on the case and judges are rarely able to get the case to trial in that period. However, if the juvenile is committed because they are assessed as a higher risk by the DJJ, it is taking “twice as much time” to get the juvenile placed into a rehabilitative program because of the “lack of bed space.”
“They are caught there, and there's nothing we can do,” said Graves.
“A couple of years ago, the law changed. It used to be that if they were in a moderate-risk program, they could be released to their parents, if appropriate, on anklemonitored release. That law was changed. Now, the judge is required to put them in JDC awaiting placement. It is another one of those unfunded mandates,” said Graves.
Commissioner Carl Zalak said that it still didn’t explain the disproportionately high number of juvenile detentions in Marion compared to the rest of the state. “There's also something else, because we're statistically an outlier,” he said.
Graves explained that the discretion of a judge to release juveniles without regard to the alleged criminal offense “differs from county to county within our circuit.”
Graves pointed out that his counterpart, Gladson, includes in every speech he gives that the Fifth Judicial Circuit sends more people to prison than other districts, and frequently includes “more than Miami-Dade County every month.”
“I'm not sure we want to use Miami-Dade as a measuring stick, nor do the citizens of our community. There's a reason we live here and not in Miami,” Graves offered.
“It's even a worse problem when we're talking with girls, because there are less programs. Anecdotally, and this is out of a Lake County case, there was a girl
committed in March who is still awaiting bed space, four months later, and for some reason she was transferred out of our facility down to Miami. Not that there's a connection, there was just space there. So, she's awaiting transport. Her parents can't visit her. But that's the kind of issues that we're seeing. There are things that I can't say I've seen in my decades of doing this,” Graves said.
GLADSON’S
TAKE
Gladson noted that he came to the meeting prepared to discuss his office’s 2025-26 budget request and not the juvenile detention issue. However, he said he was as surprised as commissioners by what he was hearing.
“I didn't know that DJJ billed counties,” he said. “It's not something that ever comes up.”
He offered commissioners this explanation:
“About three or four years ago, we saw a huge spike in violent juvenile crime. It was gang-related crime. You recall, particularly in the city of Ocala, we had lots of shootings, and we had driveby shootings. A lot of innocent bystanders were getting hit. This is what I think might be the catalyst for this change.
“The sheriff and I, and the police chief met with the people in Department of Juvenile Justice in Tallahassee,” he continued. “We said these offenders are getting out right away. Sometimes they're not even being accepted into DJJ, they're just getting turned right back out and they're creating the same problem.
Gladson outlined how the agencies were working together to identify which juveniles needed to be held longer.
“We worked with our local DJJ representative (Randy Reynolds.) We came up with a game plan where he would let us know which offenders [were in custody] immediately,” Gladson said, adding, “Sometimes it takes a little bit of time for us to get the information.”
“We knew who the prolific offenders were, and we identified them, and we were able to tamp down to … a remarkable decrease in the number of juvenile-related offenses that were violent,” he said. “Once we identified the offenders, then we were able to focus on them. Rather than being very broad, we targeted individual situations and gangs and that, I think, is part of what has resulted in more people being held in custody and detention.”
“If that's where that bill comes from,” he said, ”it comes from pretrial detention.
“The other thing that happened is … two years ago, the Legislature made it so that a juvenile who was charged with a crime had to be released within a certain period of time. And that was a statutory change that now gives the judge the ability to (give) a second extension until there's proper placement. Before, they were just getting right back out.”
Gladson said those legislative changes gave “judges across the state more authority to hold on to juveniles until there's proper placement.”
“I think that, along with us meeting with DJJ and then working locally together to identify the offenders, is the reason for the increase,” he said.
Gladson said the cost aspect was news to him. “I've never seen that bill,” he said. “I don't know how they do it.”
Gladson spoke of sitting through a three-hour sentencing hearing for a 12-year-old boy, now 15, who was sentenced to 40 years for his part in the killing of three other teens in 2022, noting that case factored into the legislation.
“Around the time we realized we have to do better at identifying the offenders, and this is the result of doing it. That's a long answer to your question, but that's where I think this comes from,” he said.
Gladson said detaining offenders
longer should decrease all types of juvenile crime.
“I see part of the issue with juvenile crimes is when they're nonviolent, they're the typical breaking into cars, stealing things. There should be a decrease in all types of juvenile-related crime, particularly in the summer when kids aren't in school, that's when they're out doing the bad things. There should be some trends that I think would be positive with more people in detention.”
Gladson pointed to the Ocala Police Department reporting no homicides this year, which was confirmed by a spokesperson for OPD. However, there is no data the “Gazette” could find that supports any notion that the majority of homicides in the past couple of years have been committed by juveniles, other than the 2023 triple teen murder at the hands of three local teens who were all recently sentenced to 40 years in prison.
The “Gazette” followed up with OPD Chief Michael Balken, who wrote in an email, “The Ocala Police Department has worked extremely hard over the past several years to embrace an “intelligence-led” policing model. That model involves the accurate identification of things such as prolific criminal groups, repeat offenders, and high crime areas. That information allows us to allocate resources from a proactive posture rather than the historic reactive model, which yields lower results.”
“We feel this approach has allowed us to remain laser-focused on the very small percentage of offenders who are committing the majority of the crime,” he continued. “Fundamentally, we believe we are arresting all the right people for all the right reasons. And we believe the results of our efforts are showing up in lower crime rates across the board.”
A Tallahassee attorney, Marie Mattox, recently notified Ocala of an intent to sue the city for damages in a case “where a juvenile was falsely arrested, surrounding unfounded claims that he was attempting to break into a car, and continues to be aggressively policed. In that particular case, no internal investigation was opened about the false arrest or continued aggressive policing.”
The “Gazette” confirmed that there has been no internal affairs investigation into this matter referenced in OPD public records. According to Mattox’s letter, the city did offer to administratively expunge the false arrest but has not done it correctly.
She added, “There have been threats made by the City of Ocala for more charges if the family fights them.”
Balken did not respond to a question from the “Gazette” about this case and whether it is an indication that the law enforcement pendulum has swung too far.
HERE ARE THE STATS FROM THE DJJ:
* FY 2022-2023: Marion County's total detention and DV respite days were 5,148, representing 2.68386% of the total service days for non-fiscally constrained counties. The annual billable amount was $1,344,890, with a monthly amount of $112,074.
* FY 2023-2024: Marion County's total detention days increased to 6,673, representing 2.87810% of the total. The annual billable amount rose to $1,662,341, with a monthly amount of $138,528.44.
* FY 2024-2025: Marion County's total detention days were 13,498, representing 4.36189% of the total. The annual billable amount was $2,688,138, with a monthly amount of $224,011.49.
* FY 2025-2026 (Projected): Marion County's projected utilization is 22,765 days, representing 6.71% of the total. The projected annual billable amount is $4,363,018, with a projected monthly amount of $363,585.
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And then there were none
Maritime Traveler, the last living horse by the legendary 1973 Triple Crown winner Secretariat, died at the age of 35 on July 27 at Ocala-based Bridlewood Farm.
By JoAnn Guidry Special to the Gazette
Maritime Traveler, a chestnut colt foaled May 15, 1990, carried the distinction of being from the great Secretariat’s last foal crop. Out of the Northern Dancer mare Oceana, Maritime Traveler was bred by the late E.P. Taylor’s Ontario-based Windfields Farm. His breeder consigned him to the 1991 Keeneland September yearling sale, where Arthur Appleton bought him for $55,000.
Maritime Traveler made five lifetime racing starts, all at Canada’s Woodbine Racetrack, with his best finish being a fourth. He earned all of $1,572 and soon after his last start, on June 12, 1993, Appleton retired him to Bridlewood Farm. That operation, one of Ocala’s legacy thoroughbred farms, was founded by Appleton and his wife Martha in 1976.
George Issacs has a long history with Bridlewood Farm and Maritime Traveler. He was Bridlewood Farm’s stallion manager from 1989 to 1992, leaving to become the general manager of Allen Paulson’s Ocalabased Brookside South Farm. In 1996, Isaacs returned to Bridlewood
Farm as general manager, remaining in the position through the death of Appleton in 2008 and the ensuing Appleton Family Trust ownership. In 2013, John and Leslie Malone purchased Bridlewood Farm and Isaacs remains the operation’s general manager.
“When I returned to Bridlewood Farm in 1996, I found out that we had a son of Secretariat as a teaser, which was kind of a cool thing. Maritime Traveler was initially the broodmare division teaser and he did his job very well for years,” said Isaacs. “When the breeding shed teaser was retired, Maritime Traveler was moved into that position and he took to it just fine.”
A teaser stallion is used on thoroughbred farms to “tease” broodmares to elicit their readiness for breeding. Broodmares can be teased in paddocks, teasing barns and the breeding shed. Teasing is combined with veterinarian exams to determine the best time period to breed a broodmare to a resident breeding stallion.
“We retired Maritime Traveler as a teaser when he was 28,” said Isaacs. “Up until his death, he lived in a paddock that backs up to 100 acres of forest. He had a good life here at Bridlewood Farm. It was our honor to have him as a special connection to the great Secretariat.”
OCALA MAIN STREET AWARDS AND EMERGE LAUNCH
By Susan Smiley-Height susan@magnoliamediaco.com
FLORIDA MAIN STREET AWARDS
Ocala Main Street received three awards at the Secretary of State’s Florida Main Street Awards.
Secretary of State Cord Byrd presented the awards during the Preservation on Main Street Conference in Fernandina Beach on July 17.
Ocala Main Street won the Telling Your Story Award for its “Downtown Guide” publication. Launched on Aug. 2, 2024, the 84-page guide, created by staff and volunteers of the Promotions Committee, celebrates local businesses, showcases district assets and highlights development projects, according to the news release.
The organization received the Landmark Preservation Project Award in recognition of the transformation of Ocala's 1975 Fire Station into Midtown Station. The project preserved the building's original structure, ensuring its historical integrity. Key architectural features, like the large bay doors, were included in the new design, reminding visitors of the past while welcoming them into the present. This initiative shows the importance of preservation in urban development and serves as a key driver for further growth within the Ocala Main Street district's Midtown zone, the release noted.
Ocala Main Street also received its 40th Anniversary Award, acknowledging its foundational role as one of the first five Main Street programs established in Florida.
"We are incredibly proud and humbled to receive these three prestigious awards from the Secretary of State's Florida Main Street program," said Jessica Fieldhouse, Ocala Main Street’s executive director, in the release. "These awards
reflect the hard work of our dedicated staff, passionate volunteers, supportive businesses and our strong partnership with the city of Ocala."
Learn more at ocalamainstreet.org
NASASUPPORTED EMERGE PROGRAM LAUNCHES
Anew initiative is mobilizing libraries, educators and communities across Florida to explore environmental issues and public health through citizen science and spatial thinking.
EMERGE—Engaging Communities in Environmental Research and Geospatial Education—is a NASA-supported program that equips the public with data tools to investigate mosquito-borne disease, land cover and environmental challenges.
Through activities like land cover mapping, mosquito habitat tracking and storytelling with satellite imagery, participants gain STEM skills and support public health resilience. The curriculum is accessible to learners of all ages and experience levels and was co-developed with input from libraries, students, educators and extension professionals.
Launched in May, EMERGE is led by the University of Florida’s Geospatial Digital Informatics (GeoDI) Lab and supported by partners including Florida Community Innovation, SciStarter, Dream in Green and the Broward County Library. The core of the program is the GLOBE Observer app, which can map mosquito habitats and land cover, among other protocols.
Learn more at geoemerge.com
Maritime Traveler, a son of Secretariat, is shown with George Issacs, general manager at Bridlewood Farm in Ocala. [File photo by Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette]
Frank Rasbury
Continued from page A1
introduced to Rotary International and became a dedicated member. He served in offices including president and district governor, and as Rotary’s observer to the United Nations. He was recognized many times as a Paul Harris Fellow for outstanding service and commitment to the ideals of Rotary.
Frank and Naida Rasbury were married for 53 years. She had made her Broadway debut at the age of 7, at George Gershwin’s request, in his original production of “Porgy and Bess” when it premiered in 1935. She appeared in two revivals before she started high school. After college, she worked as an educator and then rose through the ranks of New York City government.
She vividly recalled the day she met Frank.
“It was the early ‘70s, for the opening of a training center in New York City. It was a former military base. I knew all of the directors of the city’s training centers and one of them said, ‘I have someone I think you should meet.’ And he introduced me to my future husband, whom I was not interested in at all. I said he reminded me of a gigolo with his coat over his shoulders and all that stuff and I did not go for that kind of individual. I had to make phone calls to make sure that all my other centers were doing well since I wouldn’t be available for about two or three hours. By the time I made all my calls and got back to the start of the program, there was only seat left in the house, and that seat was next to him. I wasn’t prepared to meet somebody like him. He was arrogant and I was arrogant, too,” Naida explained.
“I wound up sitting next to him for the entire program and then we toured the center. And because that was my business, I explained what was going on to him. And you’re not going to believe this, when it was all over and we had lunch and what have you, he asked me if I would like to go and see his medals. Because it sounded corny, I said, ‘Sure,’” she offered with a laugh.
“So, I went to see his medals. I had never gone to any man’s apartment before and after I saw the medals, I was ready to go in a hurry. It must have given him a kick because women just didn’t say, ‘I have to go. Take me where I have to go.’ He took me back to the center, to my car, and asked if he could take me to lunch sometime. I said, ‘Probably. Give me a call,’”
He did, and she said yes.
“We got to be friends and went out a couple of times and eventually we got a little closer. I was in the throes of a divorce, and I had two children. Frank, who was recently retired from the military, was divorced. He had a girl and boy, and I had two boys,” she noted. “The day that my divorce was final, he took me to the courthouse and, on the way back, he asked me to marry him.”
LOCAL REFLECTIONS
The couple moved to Ocala in 1987 and became involved in many local organizations, including Rotary, Interfaith Emergency Services and the Ocala Royal Dames for Cancer Research.
During an interview for “Ocala Style” magazine, the “Gazette’s” sister publication, in 2021, Frank noted that they were ready to put all their energies “into becoming bona fide Ocalans/ Marion Countians and not just former New Yorkers” and that it was important for them to make a positive contribution to the community.
He was active with the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars and Military Officers Association of America and helped found the North Central Florida All Airborne Chapter of the 82nd Airborne Division Association. He served on the board of the
College of Central Florida and was a charter member of the Appleton Museum of Art. He and Naida were active in the Gold Wing Road Riders Association. They also enjoyed traveling in their motorhome and he served as president of the Florida Sunshine Chapter of the Special Military Active Retired Travel Club.
One of the people Frank came to know well in Ocala was R. Craig Ham, a retired U.S. Army Colonel and active leader with veterans’ organizations, including service as president of the Kingdom of the Sun Chapter, Military Officers Association of America and president/CEO of Stuff the Bus, Inc.
“As a youngster, my parents encouraged me to read the ‘Reader's Digest,’ a small periodical that came in the mail to our home. I skipped over many of the heavier topics covered in the magazine, but I always read ‘The Most Unforgettable Character I Ever Met.’ Always entertaining personal glimpses of people who had become ingrained in the memory of those who submitted them for consideration. At first, I thought that 'character’ was a term reserved for quirky, odd people, but the more I read, the more I came to realize that these were illustrations of many whose lives were destined to touch others in a meaningful way, to make a difference wherever you found yourself. For me, that person was Lt. Col. Frank Rasbury,” Ham told the “Gazette.”
“After I retired to Ocala in 1995, I joined the local chapter of the Military Officers Association of America. Having served as president of the Kingdom of the Sun Chapter several years before, I came to know Frank and his lovely wife, Naida, as warm, sincere people dedicated to serving others. Frank was the consummate military retiree, still cutting a fine figure in the uniform that had carried him from corporal to lieutenant colonel. He served in Korea, Germany and Vietnam, was trained in the Russian language, occupied positions of increasing leadership challenges in the infantry and military intelligence and he never failed to represent his organization, his family and his community with dignity and grace. The MOAA motto is ‘Never Stop Serving’ and Frank and Naida Rasbury have graced the pages of local news in a litany of articles about philanthropy, volunteerism
and local causes to support the young, the infirm and the elderly. This is a couple who shared their time, talents and treasures with our community in so many meaningful ways,” Ham said.
“I sat with Frank at the Grace Davis Hall House (Hospice). I held his hand and talked for a couple of hours about his personal and professional contributions to humanity. I know that he heard me, and I can only hope that, in doing so, I was able to ease his transition to a never-ending peace and tranquility. Frank Rasbury –‘The Most Unforgettable Character I Ever Met,’” Ham added.
Another connection was Todd Belknap, executive director of Veterans Helping Veterans USA.
“After serving honorably in the U.S. Army from 1951-1971, Lt. Col. Rasbury was unswerving in his tireless commitment to help wherever there was a need. At 96 years of age, his indefatigable efforts were recognized as he was named the 2024 Marion County Rotarian of the Year. The man did not permit Father Time to stop him from serving others,” Belknap wrote in an email message.
“Lt. Col. Rasbury was a giant in the Marion County veteran community and beyond. Us younger veterans frequently sought his wisdom whenever a thorny situation arose, and his counsel always steered us into safe harbor. Lt. Col. and Mrs. Rasbury welcomed me into their home many times and were always gracious hosts. We enjoyed long conversations mixed with his keen sense of humor. When he would playfully spar with you verbally, he got a twinkle in his eye. It let you know he cared about you. You never left their home without a smile on your face. The veteran community will miss this great role model. His leadership and desire to make a positive impact everywhere he went are examples for all of us to emulate,” Belknap continued.
City of Ocala Councilman Jim Hilty, also a veteran and friend said, “Mr. Rasbury and his wife have servants’ hearts, and they never knew a stranger.”
REMEMBERING HER FATHER
Robbin Rasbury was the first of Frank’s children. Among her fondest memories are when he was in the military.
“We went everywhere with him. One of my most fond memories was when we were living in Texas
and he was teaching me how to ride a bike. The thing about my dad is that when he learned to ride a motorcycle, he went to school. Well, he made sure I went to a bicycle school on the base. He would take me there and make sure I knew all the rules, even as a child in first grade,” she recalled.
She also remembers that “whenever we went out…in Germany or somewhere else, when we went to events, he would put me up on his shoulders and carry me around so I could see everything.”
She said that when they were living in Panama, she was preparing for a track race and her father had been away “on some mission or something.” She had already beaten the time of the fastest person in the upcoming race and wanted her father to race her “because he could always run fast, faster than I could.”
“So, when he came home, he was dead tired, but he ran with me—and I won. He was always available, always wonderful with being there when I needed something,” she shared.
As for life lessons she learned from her father, Robbin said one of them was to “never give up.”
“In other words, for me, the life lesson is that you can be whomever you want to be and don’t let anyone ever tell you that you can’t, and always strive for excellence,” she noted.
She said her father was stern about being early for meetings and events, noting that he would say, “If there’s a time to show up and you’re on time, you’re late.”
She said he would tell his children to always show up and always do their best.
“He would say that things may not always work out the way you want but just understand that there is a lesson from you. You just keep moving,” she said.
Robbin noted that many of the people she had talked with recently said her father was not just someone who talked, “he was a doer.”
She said Frank’s legacies would include his integrity and his commitment to the principles of Rotary.
In the “Ocala Style” article, it was noted that Frank was pleased to be the project manager for a community beautification project that celebrated the Rotary Club of Ocala’s 100th anniversary in 2019. The arbor in Tuscawilla Art Park includes four pillars engraved with the words “truth,” fair,” “goodwill” and “beneficial.” The inscriptions, he said, stand for the Rotary code of conduct.
“We ask ourselves four questions,” he explained in the article. “Is it the truth? Is it fair to all concerned? Will it build goodwill and better friendships? Will it be beneficial to all concerned? And our attitude is that if the answer to any one of those four questions is no, then you don’t do it.”
According to a post on a local Rotary social media page, “Earlier this year, all four Marion County Rotary Clubs convened at the Rotary Arbor in Tuscawilla Park for a special ceremony to launch the Lt. Col. Frank Rasbury ‘Service Above Self’ Award. A plaque honoring him as the first recipient was set there, which will forever commemorate his commitment to loyal service.”
“The people who are doing the work now, he has probably been the person who mentored them in some way. He was so dedicated. His hands were everywhere. When he goes into something, he steps in with both feet, never halfway with anything. He shows up in an organization and he may come in at lunch and by the end of whatever is going on, he’s going to be one of the leaders. He had that kind of charisma, always a fighter… not afraid of a fight if he had conviction about something. He would speak his truth,” Robbin said.
Robbin shared that when they were living on military bases around the world, Frank would tell them they needed to learn about that community.
“You don’t just stay in your little cocoon. You always look at and connect with people who are part of that community and respect it,” he would tell us, she said. “When we were in Germany, he took us to neighboring countries and throughout Germany, to Oktoberfest and museums. He made sure we understood the culture of the people as opposed to just staying on the base. He felt it was important that you not have a myopic view of the world. And to look at the individual, not what they look like, but to see the individual,” she said.
In addition to Naida and Robbin, Frank is survived by sons Eric, Stanley and Gordon, and grandchildren Tamara, Aaron, Bryan and Michael, as well as many other family members.
Funeral services for Frank were held Aug. 1 at St Paul’s
United Methodist Church in Ocala, followed by inurnment at the Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell.
A young Frank Rasbury in formal military attire. [Family photo]
Retired Lt. Col. Rasbury in military attire at a local event. [Family photo]
Frank Rasbury during his military days. [Family photo]
Frank Rasbury. [Family photo]
Frank and Naida Rasbury. [Photo by Meagan Gumpert, MAVEN Photo + Film]
Al Formella, Bill Mess, Frank Rasbury, Tim Dean and Richard Howard Sr., all of the Marion Rotary, volunteered during the Marion Rotary Duck Derby at Tuscawilla Park in Ocala on Feb. 19, 2024. [File photo by Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette]
Artistic excellence
The works of this area artist have been accepted into state and national shows.
By Margo Wilson Special to the Gazette
Rainbow Springs
Art in Dunnellon watercolor artist
Polly Boston is on a roll.
Her work has recently been accepted by the Florida Watercolor Society for its annual exhibition, by the National Watercolor Society for its online show and by the American Watercolor Society for its online show.
Her "Still Waters" painting of lily pads has been accepted for publication in the "Best of Watercolor: Winners of the Splash '26 Art Competition" of "Artists Magazine" and "American Artist."
The modest Boston of Lecanto said she also has been invited to do a demonstration at the Florida Watercolor Society's annual convention in Orlando in September.
She said she's previously attended demonstrations by "wonderful artists" who explain how they create their art.
"But what I do the most is make mistakes, so I'm going to demonstrate how
to fix mistakes," she said. Her painting, "A Silent Duet," will be on display at the Florida Watercolor Society's annual exhibition at the Orlando Museum of Art from Sept. 13 through Jan. 4. The work is based on a photo of a 1902 Steinway Model D grand piano in front of the "Triumph of Prudence" wool-and-silk Flanders tapestry from the 1500s, hanging in the Tapestry Gallery at the Biltmore
Estate in Asheville, N.C.
The details in the tapestry, including serpents' heads and humans in long gowns, as well as the details of the musical notes in the rack above the piano, are enough to make one long for a new set of reading glasses.
"As I started working on a human head and dragon, it was just fascinating," Boston said. "I wanted it to
still look old, and the piano was not easy to do."
Like her painting, Boston is a blend of music and art. A former music teacher from Columbiana, Ohio, she studied at the Oberlin Conservatory of Music, the University of Mount Union and Youngstown State University Dana School of Music. She always did art, as well, and enrolled in the Famous Artists School correspondence course.
She continues to pursue music by participating in the Citrus Community Concert Choir and in The Diamonds in the Rough, a musical group based in Black Diamond. Her artistic involvement includes both the Rainbow Springs gallery and the Citrus Watercolor Society.
Her winning entry for the National Watercolor Society's online show is "Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow," a painting of a fading bouquet. The selected painting for the American Watercolor Society's online show is, "Seatcovers," a colorful selection of pants hanging in a closet.
She said she loves working in watercolor.
"It's very forgiving," she stated. "I like the way the colors blend together. I used to paint in acrylics, but it dries quickly and you have to be careful because the paint will dry on your brush."
A few of Boston's watercolors can be seen at the Rainbow Springs Art in Dunnellon gallery at 20826 Walnut St., Dunnellon, which is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday.
To learn more, go to rainbowspringsart.com
Board games are popular ways to pass the time and socialize with family and friends. Board games have been played for centuries. The oldest board game is believed to have originated in the Middle East. It was discovered at the Royal Cemetery of the Sumerian city of Ur in 1928 bya British archaeologist. Highly decorated boards made of wood and inlaid shell and lapis lazuli were found and believed to be made between 2,600 and 2,400 B.C. The game was dubbed the Royal Game of Ur since its original name wasn’t known.
Polly Boston’s "Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow" has been selected for the National Watercolor Society's online show. [Photo courtesy of the artist]
"Still Waters," a watercolor by Polly Boston, a member of the Rainbow Springs Art in Dunnellon gallery, has been accepted for publication in the "Best of Watercolor: Winners of the Splash '26 Art Competition of "Artists Magazine" and "American Artist." [Photo courtesy of the artist]
"Seatcovers," a watercolor by Polly Boston, will be part of the American Watercolor Society's online show. [Photo courtesy of the artist]
Polly Boston [Photo courtesy of the artist]
"A Silent Duet," by Polly Boston, has been chosen for the Florida Watercolor Society's annual exhibition at the Orlando Museum of Art, Sept. 13-Jan. 4. [Photo courtesy of the artist]
Protecting seniors
Continued from page A1
new accounts opened in her name were being used to purchase child pornography and other illegal material, the affidavit stated.
The victim was told to withdraw $7,300, convert it to cryptocurrency and send it to a given location, which she did. She was then told to convert $160,000 in cash to gold to “safeguard” the funds and standby for instructions to give it to a “federal agent,” later identified as Jiann Cao, who appeared at her Ocala Palms home in northwest Ocala where deputies were waiting.
The owner of the gold exchange company in Jacksonville had altered law enforcement about the transaction.
MCSO Deputy Calvin Pope was the first deputy involved in the case and Det. Silas Caruthers served as investigator.
The phone scammer told the victim to send a photo of the gold and then seal it up and look outside her home for the “federal agent.” Cao,33, of Fontana, California, was arrested after he was seen with a backpack in the victim’s driveway and then approached the home and appeared to be working “in concert” with the phone scammer, according to the affidavit.
Coa was booked into the Marion County Jail on Dec. 12, 2024, on a no bond basis. He faces a charge of fraud or swindle for an amount in excess of $50,000.
MCSO Crime Prevention Cpl. John Remington offers a piece of long-standing advice that still applies to myriad types of modern internet fraud. Remington says post an imaginary “No Solicitors” sign at your internet door by not responding to unrequested emails and texts. He suggests to always verify the authenticity of the party, especially if you did not originate the communication.
Remington said that about $1 million is stolen every month from victims of elder fraud in Marion County.
A brochure detailing the presentation “Protecting Our Seniors from Fraud,” given by 5th Judicial Circuit State Attorney Bill Gladstone, states that common types of scams aimed at seniors include phone imposters, identity theft, investment and romance.
The most frequent, in order, according to 2023 FBI statistics are tech support scams, personal data breaches, confidences and romance scams, non-payment and non-delivery scams and investment scams, according to Gladstone’s presentation.
The State Attorney’s Office presentation includes a local money to gold exchange case as an example and discusses possible prevention, recovery of potential loses and possible arrests when an internet or phone crime is reported.
The role of the SAO, according to the presentation, includes investigation in cooperation with law enforcement, prosecution of offenders, helping victims understand the legal process and their rights, and advocacy for protective laws and improving the legal response to crimes.
The State Attorney’s Office for the 5th Judicial Circuit has also published the “Elder Fraud Resource Guide” in partnership with Marion Senior Services, Elder Options, the Ocala Police Department and the MCSO.
The resource guide identifies and discusses many of the types of scams aimed at seniors, how to protect and monitor your credit, the mental and emotional effects of scams like shame and guilt, safeguarding loved ones in ways like checking their finances for unusual amounts paid out and who to call for help.
Common scams against seniors include IRS imposters, Social Security imposters, Medicare and Medicaid imposters, tech support imposters, telemarketer and robocall frauds, investment scams, romance scans, contractor and home repairs scams, employment scams and sweepstakes, lottery and inheritance scams, according to the resource guide.
The scammers use three tactics: unexpected contact, building a sense of urgency and providing specifics to pay or send money, the guide states.
Some scams come in the form of “phishing” or a “too good to be true” email or text arrives, “tricking” the victim into opening an email, pop up message or text message.
Mail fraud is also discussed in the resource guide and citizens are urged to pick up mail promptly and shred correspondence.
The Ocala Police Department made an arrest in July of 2024, of then 42-year-old Weikai Zhang, from Winter Garden, who “nearly robbed a 74-year-old (living in a southwest Ocala gated community) of her retirement savings and her way of life.”
The scheme in the OPD arrest was similar to the Ocala Palms case and involved converting currency to gold for pick up by the scammer.
According to the arrest affidavit, OPD Cpl. Luis Camacho Garcia, was deputized by the MCSO and as a task force officer for the Department of Homeland Security. Homeland Security Investigations had information that an individual here might be the victim of an “Asian call center.” HSI confirmed with the victim that a “call center” contact had convinced her that her computer had a virus, and she allowed access to her computer under the guise they would help her.
According to the affidavit, the scammers gained access to the victim’s financial records and told her that her money was at risk and convinced her to liquidate $500,000 in cash to gold. The victim was put in touch with a broker who sold her six kilos of gold for $500,000 and was told that the gold would be picked up by a federal agent and “kept under federal custody until it was safe.”
HSI agents went to the victim’s residence and learned the gold had not yet been delivered. They said the victim was surprised about the scam but was very glad law enforcement intervened.
The victim received a call from the “call center” to verify the six kilos of gold were delivered to the residence. Information soon indicated the “courier” had arrived to pick up the gold, the affidavit indicated.
Zhang was seen driving “up and down in a suspicious manner” near a clubhouse outside the gated residence area and a check of the vehicle’s license plate found the registered owner, later confirmed as Zhang, had a driver license that was suspended in 2022 and the vehicle tag expired in 2023.
As law enforcement information indicated the “courier” had arrived, Zhang allegedly had a cell phone in operation and a map app and
GPS directions to a redacted residence, the affidavit states.
The affidavit states Zhang’s primary language is Mandarin and an interpreter was provided.
He was arrested and charged. There is no statement by Zhang in response to the charges provided in the redacted affidavit.
Zhang was booked into the Marion County Jail on July 9, 2024, and released July 10, 2024, after posting a $61,000 bond, according to online records.
The three charges listed against Zhang in jail records are organized fraud ($50,000 or more), improper use of a twoway communications device and driving while license suspended (second offense).
The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services warns at fdacs.gov about another development in scams—the use of artificial intelligence (AI), which “mimics human thinking or actions” to fool victims into believing they are dealing with a different party, such as la loved one.
The website states that although AI is found in positive applications, “scammers have also found ways to twist the benefits of AI for malicious purposes.”
“Scammers can use AI technology and audio data
collected online to clone the voice (consumer.ftc.gov/consumeralerts/2023/03/scammers-use-aienhance-their-family-emergencyschemes) of a child, grandchild or other family member to convince a victim that a loved one is involved in a crisis and needs immediate financial assistance. This could be used in something like a grandparent scam, an emergency scam or a fake kidnapping scam,” the website states.
A recent post on the MCSO Facebook page states that a local woman was taken in by a scam similar to one involving another female victim, which is detailed in an AARP online article posted July 25, 2025. The article details how the victims began online playing the online game Words with Friends and made contact with a man who “claims to be actor Keanu Reeves.”
“While initially skeptical, the video chat and voice messages he sends eventually convince her of his identity. As the relationship deepens over three years, ‘Keanu’ will borrow thousands of dollars,” the article stated.
To see a copy of the Elder Fraud Resource Guide online, go to sao5.org/wp-content/ uploads/2025/06/Marion-ElderFraud-Resource-Guide-2025.pdf
State gears up for bear hunt
By Jim Turner The News Service of Florida
State wildlife officials in August could approve rules for a three-week bear hunt in December that would have “a more structured format” than a hunt halted a decade ago after a limit was quickly reached on bears that could be killed.
The proposed rules, which will be considered by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission during a meeting Aug. 13 and 14 in Havana, would include a lottery-style permitting process and up to 187 bears being killed in four areas of the state. The rules also would include guidelines to encourage hunters to kill male bears.
George Warthen, the commission’s chief conservation officer, said the proposed hunt — the state’s first since 2015 — is an additional method to manage bears as they coexist with humans.
“When we look at game species across North America, there's not a single game species that has gone extinct or come close through regulated hunting,” Warthen said. “Instead, we see more money,
more attention and a lot more benefits for that animal. And this can be a tough conversation to have. And so, the why, for Florida, becomes we're one of the only states that is not participating in regulated bear hunting in states that have abundant bear populations.”
Bear hunting has long been a controversial issue in Florida, with opponents saying that killing bears for sport won’t reduce humanbear interactions. They also say the commission should expand the use of non-lethal options, such as bear-proof trash containers, to help keep bears from being drawn to residences and businesses and should increase land-conservation efforts.
But calls to hold a hunt have been growing. The 2015 hunt ended after two days, when 305 bears were killed in what was expected to be a weeklong endeavor.
The state had an estimated 4,050 bears in 2015, considered the most recent figures by the commission.
Bears were on a state list of threatened species from 1974 to 2012, until a state biological status
review determined they were no longer at high risk of extinction.
During the past 50 years, the state has recorded 42 incidents in which wild bears have made physical contact with people, with the first recorded fatal bear attack occurring in May, when an 89-year-old Collier County man and his dog were killed.
The commission on May 21 voted 4-1 to support a draft proposal for the December hunt.
Commission Vice Chairman Steven Hudson voted against the proposal, suggesting that nonFloridians should be prohibited from getting permits and raising concerns about allowing people to hunt bears at feeding stations.
A notable change in this year’s proposals involves permits. In 2015, permits were open to anyone willing to pay and participate until a quota for bills killed was reached.
“This new proposal only gives out a specific number of tags that meet that (187-bear) quota, to a finite number of hunters, who can then take one bear,” Warthen said. “That's a big change, so that people feel that we see … a more structured format that allocates a permit per hunter, so people can
see that and it gives hunters more time.”
The proposed permit-drawing process would be open to anyone who pays a $5 entry fee. It would not limit the number of times a person could enter, but people whose names are drawn would only be able to purchase a single permit.
Also, non-Floridians would be limited to 10 percent of the permits, which would cost them $300. Permits would be priced at $100 for Floridians.
Chuck O’Neal of the environmental group Speak Up Wekiva has suggested opponents of the hunt enter the drawing to reduce the number of bears killed.
“If every Floridian entered the lottery, only 1.87 bears — rounded to 2 — would be killed because only 1 percent of Florida citizens actually hunt,” O’Neal posted on Facebook.
Warthen said not reaching the December quota could lead to a boost in permits for future hunts.
The 187-bear quota is based on a formula that takes into account female bears being killed.
“It’s highly unlikely and probable that the harvest will
be all female or that all hunters will harvest a bear,” Warthen said. “What we'll see is a very conservative approach that allows for continued growth within bear populations in Florida, but at a more managed rate.”
The hunt is projected to be limited to 68 bears in the Apalachicola region west of Tallahassee; 46 in areas west of Jacksonville; 18 in an area north of Orlando; and 55 in the Big Cypress region southwest of Lake Okeechobee.
Warthen said hunting around feeding stations is expected to allow hunters to be more selective.
“We're skewing this harvest, or having the rules set so it encourages more male bears harvested,” Warthen said. “This would allow that hunter their time, to make sure that it's not a female with cubs, which would also be prohibited.”
Hunters would not be allowed to use dogs to pursue bears in December, but that would change in subsequent seasons.
“It's very important that those dogs are properly trained and there's time to do that,” Warthen said.
Judicial system
Continued from page A1 growth, according to Fueller. The county’s demographic trends, including an influx of retirees, may be contributing to the higher caseload, Commissioner Kathy Bryant suggested.
The state’s decision to approve new judges without providing additional case managers or magistrates has left counties to fill the gap.
“We asked for a whole lot of case managers this year from the Legislature,” Fueller said. “They gave us 39 judges, but they didn’t give us any case managers or staff.”
County-funded magistrate positions have become essential, especially in dependency court, where Circuit Judge Ann Melinda Craggs told the commissioners the workload of serving children and families in need has become “problematic.”
“Last year, general magistrate Joshua Soileau handled 1,912 hearings, and he’s on track for 1,711 this year,” Craggs said. “It’s the only way our dependency judge is able to meet her statutory mandates.”
However, Soileau’s position is funded by Marion County, not the state, which frustrated the commissioners considering the demonstrated need.
Commissioner Michelle Stone expressed frustration that the state wasn’t helping fund the magistrate position. “The only way the state’s going to recognize our need is if we took the funding away,” she said, adding, “I’m not advocating for that.”
County leaders pledged to continue advocating for state support for the courts but acknowledged the challenges ahead for court officials.
Administrative Judge for Marion County Steven G. Rogers explained to the commissioners another element that was adding to the workload.
“The main emphasis of what we're receiving from Tallahassee is on case
management and about getting cases closed,” he said. Rogers said the pressure wasn’t only for criminal dockets but also for civil dockets.
“They kind of want the state system run like the federal system. However, we don't have staffing that they have on the federal system, making it a little difficult for us to keep up with those standards. And we just need more people with more eyes on the files to kind of help us move them along,” he said.
Officials highlighted the county’s investment in problem-solving and treatment courts, which have shown significant cost avoidance and high success rates. Alina Stoothoff, Senior Court Operations Consultant for the Fifth Circuit Problem Solving Courts, reported that treatment courts saved the county more than $700,000 last fiscal year by diverting offenders from jail, with a 71% success rate in criminal programs and 88% in juvenile programs.
STATE ATTORNEY’S OFFICE
On July 23, Bill Gladson, the State Attorney for the Fifth Circuit, which encompasses Marion, Sumter, Lake, Citrus and Hernando counties, said his budget for Marion County was “4.6% less than our request from last year.”
Gladson said he did away with the early intervention program and absorbed the work from that among all of the attorneys who work in his office.
Gladson acknowledged during the workshop that the county was getting a couple more judges, and the addition was “a reflection of our growth.” He added that he’d asked the state to fund an additional 28 positions but didn’t receive funding from the state for them.
“I don't know if [the new judges] are going to be assigned a criminal [docket] or not, but if they are, that's an issue for us. We don’t have the staffing to add to
the [new] dockets. If you create a whole new docket, you've created a secretary, investigator, victim advocate and three or four lawyers,” he said.
Gladson said he expected to continue asking for more staffing positions.
PUBLIC DEFENDER’S OFFICE
On July 24, Michael Graves, public defender for the Fifth Judicial Circuit, expressed similar concerns about state funding when he presented his budget request to the county commissioners.
“The Fifth Judicial Circuit [public defender’s office] is funded at 49% of what the state attorney's budget is statewide. The average throughout the state is 57% as well as the fact that of every dollar that we get from the state budget, we are required to fund 20% of that out of trust funds, from fines, fees, collections and alike, and we're trying to close that gap,” Graves told the commissioners.
“[Funding] has very simply has not kept up in the last 20 years with the growth of this circuit, certainly the growth of Marion and Lake counties, such that we should receive the appropriate tax funding or the funding from the from the state, and hopefully that would reduce our reliance on the county funding,” he said.
“Our counties have been so kind to make up the gap for both the state and the public defender's office in an effort to try to have a criminal justice system that flows for the people in a manner that's appropriate with due process,” said Graves.
“Under my budget, we are requesting an increase. I know it's a bad time, but an increase a little bit less than 5% generally. It comes from the need to hire more lawyers in the last year here to serve the citizens of Marion County,” he added.
Graves said he and the state attorney were exploring ways to save costs through continued shared needs like technology.
School board sells warehouse/ property for nearly $2 million
By Lauren Morrish lauren@ocalagazette.com
The Marion County School Board reluctantly closed the sale on a warehouse it has owned since 1912, after the buyer needed two extensions to finalize the deal.
The board will receive $1,910,580 from this sale and signed the closing documents after discussing and approving the sale at its July 22 board meeting. No details were provided at the meeting about the intended uses of the funds other than a reference to the money being “earmarked” for a datacenter.
The warehouse lot is 1.34 acres located at 506 SE Third Ave. with a market value of $1,862,582 in 2023. The board decided to sell the district-owned quarter-acre vacant lot that is south of the warehouse parcel separately.
The law firm McGraw, Rauba & Mutarelli handled the sale for the school board. Attorney John McGraw said the buyer requested it be named One Remington Ocala II, LLC. in the sale documents.
One Remington Ocala is an affiliate of a New York-based company and was selected despite local bids for the warehouse.
No information was available as to how the new owners intend to use the property.
As of 2023, the warehouse property had a market value of $1,862,582. The assessed value was $1,313,767, with the value of the land assessed at $838,656 and the value of the building at $1,008,801, according to the Marion County Property
Appraiser’s Office. McGraw and his colleague at the firm, attorney Alexandra Scales, said the buyer had put the money in an escrow account on July 21 and signed the final documents in anticipation that the board would approve the sale.
Despite the money being placed in escrow, the board still had the option to re-list or retain the property.
Scales said the buyer was set to close on June 30 but was then unwilling to meet that deadline as it failed to get the necessary surveys. She said the board “generously” granted them an extension to July 11, which the entity failed again to meet.
Finally, the buyer requested to get the survey and money by the date of the meeting on July 22 and was successful.
Board member Sarah James recommended that the board close on the sale when a discussion opened about next steps. She said that while the timeline was not ideal, the
“back-and-forth" process is how a typical commercial real estate sale often works.
“As long as you get it across the finish line and everybody walks away happy, that’s the end goal,” she said.
James said the money from the sale needs to be “earmarked” for the datacenter to offline another property.
Board member Allison Campbell agreed with James because of the “cash in hand” already but said she is never in favor of extension after extension.
Vice-Chair Eric Cummings disagreed that this process is typical of commercial real estate transactions and recommended that the board consider how it wants to do business in the future as a government entity.
Board member Nancy Thrower supported Cummings’ opinion, adding, “There’s not a free pass because this is how it happens in commercial real estate. I was embarrassed for them a couple of times.”
Bell set to ring on school tax ‘holiday’
By Jim Turner The News Service of Florida
Praised by retailers, derided as a gimmick by critics, Florida on Aug. 1 will start a month-long sales-tax “holiday” for backto-school shoppers, along with eliminating sales taxes on other types of items.
While Florida has held backto-school tax holidays of varying lengths in most years, lawmakers this spring approved making it an every-August occurrence. Shoppers will be able to avoid paying sales taxes on clothes, shoes and backpacks that cost $100 or less, school supplies that cost $50 or less, learning aids that cost $30 or less and personal computers that cost $1,500 or less.
The Florida Retail Federation said parents of kindergarten through 12th-grade students are projected to spend an average of $858 on clothes and supplies nationally. For families with college students, the average increases to $1,326. Electronics makes up the largest portion of the expenses, followed by clothes for K-12 students.
“This is always a very popular holiday for retailers,” Lorena Holley, general counsel and vice president of the federation, said. “They run additional promotions and always expect large crowds.”
Not everyone is enamored, however, with tax holidays.
The Washington, D.C.based Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy argues the discount periods have minimal benefit for working families.
“Wealthier taxpayers are often best positioned to benefit from a temporary exemption since they have more flexibility to shift the timing of their purchases to take advantage of the tax break — an option that isn’t available to families living paycheck to paycheck,” Miles Trinidad, a state analyst for the nonprofit
organization, wrote July 17.
The business-friendly Washington, D.C.-based Tax Foundation said last week that making the back-to-school holiday a recurring month-long event, rather than requiring annual approval, gives retailers more certainty about the length and the items that will be included.
But the foundation also raised concerns about such holidays, saying targeted items are offered when demand is highest, “such as back-to-school products in August and hurricane preparedness supplies before storm seasons.”
“As a result, most of these revenue losses are associated with retail transactions that would have occurred without the added incentive,” wrote Katherine Loughead, a foundation senior policy analyst and research manager, and foundation intern Brayden Myers.
“The prevalence of sales tax holidays is indicative of deeper structural weaknesses in state tax codes: the existence of a sales tax holiday is a tacit admission that the sales tax is overly burdensome throughout the rest of the year.”
The back-to-school holiday was included in a broader tax package (HB 7031) that the Legislature passed last month after a lengthy standoff between House and Senate leaders about a budget and tax cuts. House leaders initially wanted an across-the-board cut in the state’s sales tax rate and opposed holding tax holidays.
Holley credited lobbying by the retail federation and other groups for making sure “we maintained the sales tax holiday.”
“We were confident that in the end, we would get where we landed,” Holley said.
The tax package, also starting Friday, will create permanent sales tax exemptions on a variety of items, such as batteries, portable generators, tarps, gas cans, life jackets, bicycle helmets, sunscreen and insect repellent.
Previously, such items were included in tax holidays held at the start of the hurricane season for disaster-preparedness supplies and in the summer for recreational activities.
First created in 1998, back-toschool holidays have been held annually since 2010. They were not held in 2008 and 2009 as the state struggled with budget problems during the recession.
While tax holidays have been popular with shoppers and retailers, House Speaker Daniel Perez, R-Miami, didn’t embrace them this year. When the legislative session opened on March 4, he directed House budget leaders to “dive into the budget and find real savings in recurring revenue.”
“We spend every new dime of recurring revenue while congratulating ourselves for giving easy-to-fund non-recurring sales tax holidays,” Perez said at the time.
But Senate President Ben Albritton, R-Wauchula, contended the holidays “are popular and highly utilized.”
“Creating a permanent tax holiday every August on clothing, shoes, school supplies and personal computers expands our current holiday and creates a consistency that benefits both consumers and retailers,” Albritton said as the tax package was signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis on June 30.
The package does not include the House’s proposal to cut the overall sales tax rate. The largest part of the tax package will eliminate a tax on commercial leases, a change long sought by business groups.
The back-to-school holiday is projected to save shoppers $217 million a year.
The package also includes a sales tax holiday from Sept. 8 through Dec. 31 on firearms, ammunition and such things as fishing and camping supplies.
The school district recently sold this warehouse at 506 SE Third Ave., Ocala. [File photo by Jennifer Hunt Murty]
The annual back to school drive helped more than 6,000 students.
Staff report
The annual Back To School Community Giveback took place on July 26 at multiple locations around the county. When all was said and done, about 6,750 students were given new backpacks filled with school supplies.
Some of the community partners that came together to make this year’s event a success were AdventHealth Ocala, Community Foundation Ocala/Marion, Stuff The Bus, The Marion County Children’s Alliance, The Rock, the College of Central Florida, Marion County Public Schools, the Heart of Florida Health Center, Team Cone, the Boyd Group, Ausley Construction, Gill Logistics, Panzer Medicine and Adam Hanson Youth Philanthropy.
Giving back
Jose Rodriguez of Alpha Barbers in Ocala gives a back-toschool haircut to Tanner Corrivea, 15, who will be attending Williston High School.
Henry Haake, 9 1/2, who will be attending Fort McCoy Elementary School this year, left, gets his new bicycle helmet fitted by Marion County Fire Rescue Battalion Chief Pamela Driggers.
Maggie Champagne, left, and Kaitlyn Eberhard, right, both volunteers from Roberts Funeral Home, pass out back to school supplies.
Giovanni Ledezma, 5, who will be starting kindergarten at Belleview Santos Elementary School this year, picks out a backpack as his mother, Elizabeth Bari, center, looks on as they get help from volunteer Tammy Trunek during the Back To School Community Giveback at the College of Central Florida Klein Conference Center in Ocala on July 26, 2025.
Gionee Rodriguez, 5 1/2, left, and his brothers, Alakai, 4, center, and Legend, 7, right, hold the new backpacks they received.
Benjamin Haake, 7, who will be attending Fort McCoy Elementary School this year, gets his new bicycle helmet fitted.
Charnelle McDonald and her daughters, Reign, 6, left, and Abigail, 7, right, pass out backpacks.
Photos by Bruce Ackerman
Ocala Gazette
Grandkid Cuddles
Big Belly Laughs
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Trusted Expertise for Your Brain and Spine
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Colorful, nutrient-dense foods can help promote good health.
By Mark Bailey UF/IFAS Marion County
Growing a garden throughout the year can provide nutrient-dense food that promotes good health. A rainbow garden is a type of garden that includes fruit and vegetables that contain all the colors of a rainbow.
Many of these bright colors are plant pigments that also function as antioxidants. Virtually all antioxidants originate only from plants. Consuming regular servings of these brightly colored foods is associated with reducing the risk of developing many chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular disease and some types of cancer. The greatest abundance of antioxidants are found in brightly colored fruit and dark leafy green vegetables.
Two common categories for plant pigments include flavonoids and carotenoids. Fruits and vegetables that contain flavonoids are usually purple, blue and red, while fruits and vegetables that contain carotenoids tend to be red, orange, yellow and green. Fortunately, Florida has a yearround growing season, allowing a gardener to grow a wide range of nutrient-dense fruits and vegetables in any season.
First, it is important to touch on the basics of growing a sustainable garden. Most crops need to be grown during certain times of year, such as during the warm or cool season for North Central Florida. Select the right crop for the season and select the best possible varieties. If you are unfamiliar with the best varieties, the University of Florida’s “Vegetable Gardening Guide” contains a list of recommended varieties and other key information.
Next, prepare a raised bed or garden plot by removing weeds, tilling the soil and adding compost or other soil amendments. Acquire fresh seeds or healthy plants and plant them at the appropriate depth and spacing. Add fertilizers based on the crop’s needs and keep the plants watered regularly. Drip lines and programmable water timers ensure the watering process is simple and reduces labor. Each crop will have particular needs, so it’s helpful to understand these needs before planting.
Now that the gardening basics have been covered, let’s go over the specific crops that can turn a standard garden into a rainbow garden. As mentioned earlier, each crop has a time of year when it will grow best, so we will divide crops into warm-season and coolseason crops.
Cool season crops primarily consist of dark leafy green vegetables. These can contain key carotenoid antioxidants, such as lutein and zeaxanthin, which can support eye health. Some of the most common cool-season garden crops are broccoli, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, kale, legumes and spinach.
Cool season fruit crops include blueberries, loquats, mulberries, nectarines, peaches, persimmons, plums, strawberries, various peppers and tomatoes. Most citrus varieties are harvested
Home & Garden
Growing a rainbow garden
during the cool season and are rich in vitamin C and carotenoids. Citrus grows best in well-drained, good-quality soil and in dappled sunlight.
Contrary to what some may think, many crops can be grown throughout North Central Florida’s warm season. Granted, it’s warm nearly year-round, but the weather is consistently hot from about May through early October. Some colorful crops that grow well in these conditions include ginger, legumes, melons, muscadine grapes, passion fruit, pineapple, pumpkin, sweet potatoes and turmeric.
Perhaps the most well-adapted of these crops to Florida’s climate is the sweet potato, which contains many brightly colored varieties. They need full sun,
regular water and a moderate amount of fertilizer to produce an abundant crop. New sweet potato plants are grown from the vines that emerge from the tuber. These are called “slips.” Once the vines are several feet long, they can be cut into slips about six inches long and planted two or three inches deep. Sweet potato crops are usually ready for harvest after about 120 days. Once harvested, they can remain in good condition for several months if stored in a dark and well-ventilated location. With a bit of planning, a productive rainbow garden is a very real possibility for Florida gardeners.
For gardening questions or inquiries about upcoming classes, reach out to the UF/
Swiss chard.
Red Russian kale.
Rainbow carrots.
Mulberries.
Loquat fruit.
Photos courtesy UF/IFAS Marion County
Kut Different Summer Gala
By Susan Smiley-Height susan@magnoliamediaco.com
The evening of July 25 was a time of elegance for supporters and participants of the Kut Different nonprofit, with a little bit of football thrown in for good measure.
The event, which took place at the Church of Hope in Ocala, offered a chance for the boys and young men involved in Kut Different to don tuxes and celebrate their successes.
The organization, founded by brothers Jamie Gilmore Jr. and Eddie Rocker, is dedicated to school and community-based male mentorship/student support and youth development, with a focus on GAME (Guidance, Attention, Motivation, Education).
The nonprofit recently broke ground at a six-acre site on Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue in Ocala, between 29th and 31st Streets, to celebrate the future construction of the Kut Different Academy, with a goal of opening in the Fall of 2027.
Photos by Bruce Ackerman
Ocala Gazette
K.J. Heyliger, 14, Eddie Rocker, Jonathan Hernandez and Damir Jamerson were on hand for the Kut Different Summer Gala at the Church of Hope in Ocala on July 25.
C.J. Frazier, 14, Trenton Small, 13, Daniel Franklin, 12, Derrick Richardson, 13, and Jarion Randolph, 14.
Kyir Kinsler, 5 months, Keyron Kinsler and Jaleen Council. Marcia Harrison and Kitty White.
Leslie Nelson, Dana Smith and Monterrya Boynton.
Jamie Gilmore wears a football uniform as he speaks during the event.
Dana and Kent Adams.
Kim and Willie Crawford.
Eddie Rocker, 8, Euri Rocker, 5 months, and Kym Parks.
Debra Gadson and Heather James.
Tips to maximize closet space
Who couldn’t use a little more closet space at home?
As individuals accumulate more belongings, they need places to store all of these items.
While modern homes may be built with extra storage in mind, older homes often place a premium on closet space. Homes built earlier than the 1980s may have small closets in bedrooms and only one or two additional closets around the home for linens and other items.
The most obvious solution to a lack of closet space is to build more closets. But too often home floor plans cannot accommodate new closets. Therefore, homeowners may have to get creative to maximize their space.
SORT AND DISCARD
Individuals can take some time to empty closets and assess what is in them. Sometimes more space can come from simply thinning out belongings that are no
longer used. Take off the plastic coverings on dry cleaning and discard bulky shoe boxes.
INVEST IN THINNER HANGERS
Clothes hangers come in all types, but the thinnest and most durable ones tend to be the noslip velvet variety. Such hangers keep garments from slipping off and feature an ultra-thin design, says “Real Simple” magazine.
USE STORAGE CONTAINERS
Grouping items
together and condensing them can free up space. Tuck belts, handbags and other items into storage bins that can be labeled and stacked. Loose items can look more cluttered and even take up more space when spread out.
PAIR SHELVES WITH RODS
For those with enough space, hanging a few shelves in unused areas in the closet can provide more storage space. If there is sufficient space above the rod, install a shelf and place seldomused items up high.
GET A CLOSET SYSTEM
A customized closet system will provide the best chances to maximize closet space. These companies will measure the closet and assess the contents to draw up a design that will give homeowners what they need. Closet systems also can adjust and grow with lifestyle changes.
CHOOSE OTHER STORAGE SOLUTIONS
In addition to closets, people can identify other spaces to store items. This can include bins under beds, storage benches or ottomans, the back sides of doors, or in furniture with built-in drawers. Individuals also can purchase free-standing closets or armoires that can fill in when rooms do not have enough closet space or no closet at all. Maximizing closet space comes down to some creativity, de-cluttering and utilizing additional furniture to meet needs.
Signs an AC unit may need to be replaced
Summer is a season of relaxation. Warm air, longer hours of daylight and vacations from school and work can make summer a laid-back time of year.
Many people enjoy the warmer air of summer, but it’s important to have a cool place to retreat once temperatures become particularly warm—which has been happening a lot lately in our region— and that means a wellcooled home with an air conditioning system operating at peak capacity.
A new HVAC system can last between 15 and 25 years. Homeowners whose systems are at least a decade and a half old can keep an eye out for the following signs that an HVAC may need to be replaced.
Higher energy bills: Energy costs can vary widely by location, but homeowners know that their energy bills have been on the rise for years. FirstEnergy estimated that energy costs for New Jersey residents in 2025 could increase by more than 19 percent by
the middle of the year, a point in time when many Garden State residents begin using their air conditioning units every day. That can make it hard to gauge if higher energy bills are a reflection of market price increases or a unit that needs replacement. But higher energy bills could indicate a unit is not working efficiently, which is a telltale sign of an HVAC that may need to be replaced. Compare energy bills from a year ago to current bills and then factor in the price increase. If energy consumption is on the rise compared to a year
ago, that could indicate an HVAC unit is working less efficiently.
• A humid home: Humidity is a part of summer, but it’s typically felt outdoors, not inside. A home with a humid interior while the AC is running could indicate a problem with the HVAC unit. According to hvac. com, a functioning HVAC unit utilizes an evaporator coil to pull excess water vapor from the air in a home and drain it away from the home. If the air inside a home is humid, the unit might be having a mechanical issue that’s preventing this
Signs it’s time to replace gutters
Home improvement projects run the gamut from complex undertakings like room additions to simpler renovations like a new front door. Some home renovations excite homeowners more than others, but all improvements are a way to make a home safer, more comfortable and/ or more functional.
important task from being performed.
• Frequent repairs: A telltale sign that a unit needs to be replaced is the need for frequent repairs. Homeowners who are now on a first-name basis with their HVAC contractor may want to ask that professional if it’s time to replace the unit. Money being spent on frequent repairs may be better repurposed toward financing the purchase of a new unit that could last as long as a quarter century.
• Poor air flow: An HVAC unit operating at peak capacity will produce a steady flow of cool air through the vents throughout a home. Poor air flow through those vents means it will take longer than normal to cool a home and homeowners can put their hands near the vents to see how well or how poorly air is flowing through them. If air is flowing poorly, the unit will have to work harder to cool the home, which will contribute to higher energy bills.
A gutter replacement might not inspire the same level of excitement as a room addition or an overhaul of an outdoor living space, but new gutters can help to prevent roof damage and make properties safer by ensuring rainwater is directed away from walkways. Homeowners who suspect it might be time for a gutter replacement can look for these signs of fading gutters.
Cracks or splits: Cracks or splits at the seams of the gutters where two pieces connect is a telltale sign they need to be replaced. Cracks or splits can slowly lead to separation of gutter pieces, which will lead to leaks. But not all cracks or splits are found at the seams. In fact, some homes feature seamless gutters, which also can crack or split. Regardless of where they’re found, cracks or splits are a warning signs of fading gutters.
Rust: Rust is rarely a good sign whether you’re looking at a vehicle or even garden tools. Rust also is a bad sign in relation to gutters.
Gutters are painted, and not only for aesthetic purposes. Paint on gutter also serves to protect them from water. When paint begins to flake, gutters will begin to rust and may even produce
noticeable rust flakes on the ground below. Rust on gutters and rust flakes beneath them are indicative of gutters that need to be replaced.
• Gutters pulling away from the home: Gutters that appear to be pulling away from the home is a sign that they need to be replaced. Gutters are fastened to a home during installation, which ensures they can withstand rain and water. Over time, those fasteners can wear down, ultimately leading to gutters that appear to be pulling away from the home. Though gutters can be refastened, eventually they will need to be replaced.
• Pooling water: Pooling water in a gutter may just be a sign that they need to be cleaned. However, pooling water on the ground directly beneath gutters indicates they’re not effectively directing water away from the home.
• Water damage inside: A home’s interior might not be the first place homeowners look when inspecting for damaged gutters, but a flooded basement or crawl space could indicate a gutter problem. Gutters and downspouts are designed to direct water away from a home when functioning properly. When that isn’t happening, water can pool beneath the foundation, leading to pooling water and other water damage in basements and crawl spaces. Gutter replacement projects may not be exciting, but new gutters can make a home safer and prolong the life of a roof and other features on a property.
A wine lover’s salad
Each month the California Wine Institute sends out a new recipe that goes well with wine. This one caught my eye for its colorful, elegant presentation and wine recommendation.
It is difficult to pair a wine with most salads because of the acid in the salad dressing. Here, a touch of lemon juice and olive oil lightly dress the ingredients with a complementary flavor that does not overwhelm the sweet fruit and vegetables and salty prosciutto and feta cheese.
August is prime time for nectarines, peaches and plums, which all have pits. Referred to as stone fruits because of the pit/stone, any of these stone fruits grill beautifully. To remove the pit/stone carefully giggle the stone around with your fingers until it comes out. There’s also no need to peel any of these fruits, which brands this salad “Seriously Simple.”
Make sure you find very fresh corn for its summery sweetness. You’ll need to husk it. Once cooked, the corn needs to be shucked (taken off the cob), which can be done with a corn husker gadget or a very sharp knife. You can place the corn in the hole of a bundt pan and then slice the kernels off (place vertically in the hole) so they fall into the cake hole.
This recipe calls for boiling the corn, but you could also grill it, which will add a smokey flavor. Grilling heightens the sweetness and lightly caramelizes the corn and fruits natural sugar.
For this salad, you can
use nectarines alone, or a combination of stone fruits. Serve as a separate course at a dinner party or as a side salad with grilled sausages. In larger portions, the salad makes a beautiful summer lunch. Wine suggestions: California muscat, California rosé, or California extra-dry sparkling wine GRILLED NECTARINE SALAD WITH ARUGULA, PROSCIUTTO, AND CORN
Serves 4
For the dressing:
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon finely minced shallot
3 tablespoons extravirgin olive oil
Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
For the salad:
1 large ear of corn, shucked
2 large nectarines, ripe but firm
Extra-virgin olive oil
4 large, thin slices prosciutto
3 handfuls of baby arugula, about 3 ounces 1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted
Crumbled feta, optional
MAYO CLINIC
1. Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, combine the lemon juice and shallot; let stand for 15 minutes. Whisk in the olive oil, then season to taste with salt and pepper.
2. Bring a pot of unsalted water to a boil over high heat. Add the corn, cover, and remove from the heat. Let stand for 5 minutes. With tongs, transfer the corn to a cutting board. When cool enough to handle, cut the kernels off the cob.
3. Prepare a medium charcoal fire or preheat a gas grill to medium. Halve and pit the nectarines. Cut each half in half again. Brush all over with olive oil. Grill on the cut sides until the fruit is lightly charred and slightly softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Drape a slice of prosciutto on each of four salad plates (or put all four slices on one platter, if serving family style). In a bowl, combine the arugula and corn kernels and toss with just enough dressing to coat lightly. Divide among the salad plates. Top with the warm nectarine wedges. Sprinkle with sliced almonds and with crumbled feta, if using. Serve immediately.
Does collagen really help fight wrinkles and aging?
DEAR MAYO CLINIC:
I see ads for collagen powder and supplements everywhere now, and my sister swears by it for fighting wrinkles. Does it actually help prevent aging? What exactly is collagen?
ANSWER: Collagen has been seen in the media in regard to having anti-aging properties. At least 30% of your body — skin, bones, tendons, organs — is made up of collagen. Collagen is a protein of the supportive tissue of the skin, which helps give it its tightness and suppleness. As you lose collagen over time, this can lead to sagging and thinning of the skin and the development of wrinkles, which can make you look aged. Much of the antiaging industry focuses on maintaining or, hopefully, building collagen. Collagen comes in the form of over-the-counter dietary supplements such as capsules or powder, but it also can be consumed through gelatin found in foods such as Jell-O and marshmallows. Studies are unclear as to whether taking collagen by mouth, either through diet or by supplement, is beneficial. Oftentimes when research on collagen is performed, it is not performed on
humans, or it may be performed on humans but in an amount that is impractical for your daily diet or habits over time. When considering topical collagen products such as serums and moisturizers, keep in mind that collagen is a large protein with a complex structure that cannot be absorbed directly through the skin. Over-the-counter products may be labeled with fancy words such as “high hydrolyzed collagen peptides,” which claim that the collagen’s chemical structure is more absorbable in the gut lining or on the top of the skin so that it seemingly would be more active.
Topical products that are not medications are not registered through the Food and Drug Administration in the same way that prescription medication is. Similarly, oral supplements are not regulated by the FDA in the same way that food and oral medications are regulated. With numerous products available on the market, it is difficult to tell how it has been tested, what it contains and if those ingredients are helpful, neutral or potentially harmful. Another thing to
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA. IN RE: THE ESTATE OF LOUIS K. MEDEIROS, Deceased. CASE NO: 2025-CP-1784 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: January 8, 2025. The date of first publication of this Notice is August 1, 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: ANNA MARIE MEDEIROS 8472 SW 93rd Circle Ocala, FL 34481
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA IN RE: ESTATE OF CAROL JEAN KERCHAERT
Deceased. PROBATE DIVISION
File No. 2025-CP-1744
Division NOTICE TO CREDITORS
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION File No. 25CP001605AX
IN RE: ESTATE OF CALVIN MCARTHUR TYSON, SR., Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of CALVIN MCARTHUR TYSON, SR., deceased, whose date of death was September 30, 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for Marion County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is P.O. Box 1030, Ocala, Florida 34478. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative's attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent's estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. The personal representative has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent's death by the decedent or the decedent's surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss. 732.216-732.228, Florida Statutes, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under s. 732.2211, Florida Statutes. The written demand must be filed with the clerk. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent's estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT'S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is August 1, 2025.
Attorney for Personal Representative: DAVID W. VELIZ, ESQUIRE Florida Bar Number: 846368 DANIELLE WHITE, ESQUIRE Florida Bar Number: 1035906
Veliz Katz Law 630 North Wymore Road Suite 330 Maitland, FL 32751 Telephone: (407) 849-7072
Fax: (407) 849-7075
E-Mail: velizkatz@velizkatzlaw.com
Secondary E-Mail: jearle@velizkatzlaw. com
be aware of is that in dermatology and plastic surgery, as well as facial, ear, nose and throat surgery, collagen and fillers in the skin are given through other treatment methods in the office, such as by injection. So, if someone is interested in anti-aging properties and bringing more volume to the deeper layers of their skin, at this time, prescription or active medical intervention in a physician’s office is suggested versus overthe-counter oral or topical treatment. If someone is interested in learning more, they should consult with their healthcare team.
The bottom line is, we don’t know if topical or oral supplementation of collagen is beneficial for anti-aging purposes. There’s no magic pill to reverse aging. Sun exposure is a major cause of wrinkles, especially for people with fair skin. And smoking causes narrowing of the blood vessels in the outer layers of the skin and damages collagen. The most effective way to support your collagen for anti-aging is to avoid smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke, limit alcohol use and consistently wear sunscreen.
— Dawn Davis, M.D., Dermatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
The administration of the estate of Carol Jean Kerchaert, deceased, whose date of death was June 2, 2025, is pending in the Circuit Court for Marion County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 110 NW 1st Ave, Ocala, Florida 34471. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative's attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent's estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM.
The personal representative has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent's death by the decedent or the decedent's surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss. 732.216732.228, Florida Statutes, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under s. 732.2211, Florida Statutes. The written demand must be filed with the clerk. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent's estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS
AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE.
ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORI-
DA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE
AFTER THE DECEDENT'S DATE OF
DEATH IS BARRED.
The date of first publication of this notice is July 25, 2025. Attorney for Personal Representative: /s/ Lisa M. Miles Lisa M. Miles
Attorney Florida Bar Number: 1036064
DOUGLAS LAW FIRM 117 N. 2nd Street
Personal Representative: Raymond Evans 16590 NE 141st Court Fort McCoy, Florida 32134 Palatka, FL 32177 Telephone: (904) 671-8395
Fax: (386) 385-5914
E-Mail: Lisa@dhclawyers.com
Secondary E-Mail: Paulette@dhclawyers. com
Personal Representative: CALVIN TYSON, JR. 17440 North Highway 329 Reddick, Florida 32686
NOTICE UNDER FICTITIOUS NAME LAW
TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN:
Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of GORRIE MILL with offices located at 4575 W HWY 40 OCALA, FL 34482 pursuant to the "Fictitious Name Statute", House Bill No. 1175, Chapter No. 865.09, Laws of Florida, 1941, intends to register the said name with the State of Florida upon receipt of proof of the publication of this notice.
That the party interested in said business enterprise is as follows: One50th LLC
Dated at Ocala, Marion County, Florida, this 25 th day of July, 2025.
656-1576 E-mail: claire@cjhilliardlaw.com Florida Bar Number: 1019723
NOTICE OF A SCHOOL BOARD ADMINISTRATIVE BRIEFING AND WORK SESSION
Notice is hereby given that the School Board of Marion County, Florida, will meet in a work session on August 14, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. The meeting will be held at the MTI Auditorium, 1614 E. Ft. King Street, Ocala, Florida, 34471. An agenda will be published seven days prior to the meeting and may be obtained at the Administration Office between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. The agenda is also available from a link on the District’s website: www. marionschools.net.
website: www.marion. k12.fl.us.
Persons wishing to address the Board should register with the Chairman prior to 5:40 p.m.
Any person deciding to appeal any decision made by the Board at the meeting will need a record of the proceedings and, for such purpose, may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence on which the appeal is to be based.
Have a legal ad you need to publish? ocalagazette.column.us/place
This salad is fresh, summery and a wine lover's dream. (California Wine Institute/TCA)
Using apps to save money: Part 3
By Christy Jones
Ihope you checked out some of the apps I recommended in Parts 1 and 2 of “Using apps to save money.” This week, we’re flipping the script and focusing on apps recommended by YOU. Yes, my readers have spoken—and you’re not just budget-conscious, you’re budgetpassionate. I’ve vetted these apps with my usual three-point checklist:
1. I’ve personally downloaded and used them.
2. They actually save you money.
3. They work locally (because saving money should not require a passport).
REGAL CINEMAS
Going to the movies these days is... well, let’s just say it’s not cheaper than Netflix. But the Regal Cinemas Crown Club app takes some of the sting out. You can earn rewards—like free movie tickets—just by using the app. Buy your tickets through the app and your points are automatically added. Or, if you’re more of a popcorn person than a planner, have the employee at the
concession stand scan the QR code on your phone to earn points on your buttery bounty.
My favorite part? Tuesday value tickets. Yep, even the new releases. It’s kind of a stealth discount—when you’re choosing your seats and ticket type, look for the one labeled "RCC Value Day." That stands for Regal Crown Club and it rings up at $7.99. That’s more than 50% off the regular price. Movie magic and a bargain? Yes, please. Can’t make it on Tuesdays?
Matinee showings still shave around five bucks off—just don’t forget your sweater. Theaters believe in two things: Dolby surround sound and keeping it approximately 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
UPSIDE
This app is like finding loose change in your couch cushions—if your couch was a gas station or a grocery store. Upside gives you cash back on purchases you’re already making (gas, groceries and dining out), and it uses your location to show you which spots nearby have the best offers. The cash back adds up faster than you’d think and you can send it straight to your bank account or PayPal. I've earned hundreds of dollars back on stuff I was already buying. Because offers vary by location, it’s one of those apps you just have to try for yourself. I’ve been using it for years and haven’t had a single issue—which feels almost suspicious, honestly. Just kidding.
That’s it for Part 3 of “Using apps to save money.” A huge thank-you to my readers, family, friends and even my new neighbor who helped with recommendations for this series. And as always, if you’re hungry for more moneysaving tips from The Frugal Teacher, head over to frugalteacherlife.com because saving money should be easy, local and just a little bit fun.
Florida home prices trend downward
Staff report
The Florida Realtors Association June 2025 market report shows that statewide the median single-family home sale price dropped to $410,000, a decline of 1.2% compared to June of 2024. Townhouses and condo median sales were at $312,500, a 2.3% year over year decrease from last June. The statewide active listing inventory for singlefamily homes was at 107,161, a large increase of 31.38% from last year.
SINGLE-FAMILY MARKET
Ocala/Marion County’s June median sale price reported for single-family homes was $293,000, which is a 1% increase from 2024.
"Overall, single family home sales were only down a little over 2.5% compared to a year ago in Q2 and are down somewhat closer to 2% for the year as a whole," said Brad O’Connor, senior economist for the Florida Realtors, a statewide agents’ reporting and professional trade association.
"Sales were up in 14 of the 22 metros in June, particularly along the Gulf Coast," he said. "Year to date, however, the picture is murkier, with only six metros currently up in the sales column compared to last year at this time."
The association reported the supply of single-family existing homes statewide stood at 5.1-months’ supply, a 34.2% increase over last June.
“Months’ supply inventory is a useful indicator of market conditions,” the report stated.
“The benchmark for a balanced market (favoring neither buyer nor seller) is 5.5 months of inventory. Anything higher is traditionally a buyers' market, and anything lower is a sellers' market."
Statewide, the number of cash sales for single-family homes increased by 5.6%, with a total of 65,095 throughout Florida, which was just over 33% of all sales.
“Cash sales can be a useful indicator of the extent to which investors are participating in the market. Investors are far more likely to have the funds to purchase a home available up front, whereas the typical homebuyer requires a mortgage or some other form of financing,” the report stated.
Ocala/Marion County reported 770 single-family home closings, a 1.2% decrease from last June.
TOWNHOUSES AND CONDOS
Locally, the Ocala/Marion County townhouses and condos median sales prices came in at $196,500, a 4.2% decrease from last June. A total of 58 closed sales were reported.
"Still, the second quarter was a rough one overall for condo and townhouse sales, which fell by over 14% compared to Q2 of last year," said O'Connor. "Condo units, in particular, continued to experience stunted demand in the face of new reserve requirements and difficulties with insurance. Statewide we've still seen close to 46,000 condo and townhouse sales this year, but that is down by 12% compared to the first half of last year. Drilling down to a more local level, condo and townhouse sales were only down year over year in half of Florida's 22 metro areas in June, but for the year overall, so far, they remain down compared to 2024."
Existing condo-townhouse properties were at a 9.1-months’ supply in June, an increase of 56.9% from June of 2024 and a reported total active listings of 71,329. For the sector, the number of cash sales decreased by 6.41% and represented 54.2% of the market.
Staff report
The Ocala Marion County Association of Realtors, or OMCAR, has released its June 2025 market statistics, which “reflect year-over-year growth in closed sales and overall market activity across Marion County.”
SINGLE-FAMILY HOMES:
• Closed sales: Rose 23.2% compared to June 2024, reaching 732 transactions.
• Median sale price: Increased to $304,620, a 5.0% year-over-year gain.
• Average sale price: Held steady at $354,290,
MANUFACTURED HOMES:
• Closed sales: Up 19.7% to 91
•
•
Marion County home for sale. [Photo courtesy realtor.com]
Government
AUG. 4, 11, 18 AND 25
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
AUG. 12 AND 26
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., Dunnellon
5:30pm
The council generally meets the second Wednesday of the month. Agendas, minutes and video are available at dunnellon.granicus.com/ViewPublisher.php?view_id=1
AUG. 20 AND 26
State of the County
Various locations and times
Marion County Commission Chairman Kathy Bryant will speak. The presentations are open to the public and include updates on public safety, roadways, infrastructure, economic development and projects. For details, go to marionfl.org/soc
Community
AUG. 1 AND 2
AUG. 5
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.
US Armed Forces Purple Heart Recognition Day
McPherson Governmental Complex Auditorium, 601 SE 25th Ave., Ocala 9am Marion County Veterans Services will host the event. For more information or if you are a Purple Heart recipient, call (352) 671-8422.
AUG. 7 AND 14
Activities at Fort King Fort King National Historic Landmark, 3925 E. Fort King St., Ocala 6-8pm The Summer Night Lecture Series is free and open to all ages: 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
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.
AUG. 27
Careers and Colleges Expo
College of Central Florida Ewers Century Center, 3001 SW College Road, Ocala
5-7pm
This free event offers high school seniors, transfer students, current college students and their families the opportunity to explore career paths and talk with more than 60 vendors representing colleges and universities, trade schools and local career opportunities. The expo is part of the Florida School and College Relations Tour and is presented in connection with Marion County Public Schools. For more information, go to cf.edu/events
Arts
AUG. 1-3
“In Willowbark Woods” College of Central Florida Black Box Theatre, 3001 SW College Road, Ocala
7:30pm Aug. 1 and 2; 3 pm Aug. 3 CF musical theatre students will perform the world premiere of the new musical created by Joshua L. Mazur, CF adjunct instructor of music, and directed by Jason Longtin, CF professor of music and choral director. To learn more, go to cf.edu/theatre
AUG. 2
Free First Saturday Appleton Museum of Art, 4333 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala 10am-5pm In partnership with Florida Humanities, David Morton will present “A Motion Picture Paradise! A History of Florida’s Film and Television Industry” at 2 pm. Learn about how Florida became a “third coast” to the American film and television industries over the past 100 years. Free as part of Free First Saturday; no reservation needed. Seating is limited to 250 guests on a first-come, first-served basis. The Cora’s Kitchen food truck will be onsite throughout the day, along with LifeSouth Community Blood Centers. Learn more at appletonmuseum.org
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) 3691500.
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.
AUG. 8
Unlimited Devotion: Celebrating the Music of the Grateful Dead
Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE 9th St., Ocala
7:30pm
Blending the spirit of the Grateful Dead with their own jazz and funk influences, this tribute band delivers high-energy, exploratory performances that keep fans coming back for more. From massive block parties to packed venues, this South Florida quintet brings the groove—and the good vibes—every time they hit the stage. Get tickets at reillyartscenter.com
AUG. 8
Comedian Killer Beaz
Ocala Civic Theatre, 4337 E Silver Springs Blvd, Ocala
7:30pm
The outrageously funny Killer Beaz is celebrating the milestone of 10 seasons on Discovery Channel’s hit series “Moonshiners” and continues to make regular performances at The Grand Ole Opry. And now he’s running the roads, loaded with laughs and delivering his clean comedy on tour. VIP tickets include seating upfront, a meet and greet, signature card and photo op. To learn more, go to ocalacivictheatre.com
AUG. 9
Girls Night: The Musical Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE 9th St., Ocala 7:30pm Grab your friends and get ready to laugh, cry, and dance in the aisles. This Off-Broadway hit follows five friends on a hilarious and heartfelt journey through love, loss and friendship, all set to a soundtrack of favorite hits like “It’s Raining Men,” “I Will Survive” and “Man! I Feel Like a Woman.” Learn more at reillyartscenter.com
AUG. 14
Noir Night: A Midtown Station Mystery Midtown Station, 235 NE Watula Avenue, Ocala 6:30pm Step into a world of intrigue, romance and timeless jazz. This mysterious evening will transport you to the silver age of film noir, where smoky melodies, vintage glamour and whodunits reign supreme. Slip into your finest black-and-white attire and sip on specialty cocktails crafted to capture the vibe of a bygone era. Under the glow of dim lights, the smooth sounds of live jazz by Becky Baby & Her Boys will sweep you away into a night of plot twists and fun. Presented by Infinite Ale Works, Sipping Grounds, Becky Baby Music and The Civic to benefit the Save the Civic campaign. Learn more at ocalacivictheatre.com
AUG. 16
The Great American Soulbook Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE 9th St., Ocala 7:30pm Get ready to groove with this high-energy celebration of Motown, R&B and soul music. Featuring choreographed male vocalists, powerhouse female leads and a full band, this show brings the hits of legends like The Temptations, Aretha Franklin, Whitney Houston and Luther Vandross to life. Learn more at reillyartscenter.com
AUG. 21
Classic Albums Live: Bob Marley –“Legend” Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE 9th St., Ocala 7:30pm Experience rock perfection, where world-class musicians recreate iconic rock albums live on stage. The first half delivers the album in its entirety; the second half rocks the artist’s greatest hits. Learn more at reillyartscenter.com
THROUGH JAN. 18
“The Human Pulse: Photographs by John Elliott” Appleton Museum of Art, 4333 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala The exhibit features 42 black-and-white prints from the Ocala-based photographer’s ongoing series, “The Human Pulse,” shaped by his life and travels across 32 countries. 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/planyour-visit/blue-star-museums/
William and Janna White, with their children Liam and Adaline, attended the Appleton Museum of Art’s Free First Saturday on July 1, 2023. [File art by Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette]
Becky Baby will perform during Noir Night: A Midtown Staton Mystery on Aug. 14. [Photo courtesy Ocala Civic Theatre]
Scoop up bargains at the annual Ocala Public Library Sale.
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.
OMCAR Cares - Ocala Marion County Association of
Partners with Hands of Mercy Everywhere to Build Deck for Learning Facility
The Ocala Marion County Association of REALTORS® (OMCAR) proudly partnered with Hands of Mercy Everywhere (H.O.M.E.), a Belleview-based nonprofit organization, to support their mission of empowering young mothers through education, life skills, and compassionate care. As part of this meaningful collaboration, members of OMCAR’s Community Awareness Committee designed and constructed a new outdoor deck at H.O.M.E.’s learning facility.
This enhancement provides a safe, welcoming space where young women and children can gather, learn, and build community. The deck will serve as a vital extension of the facility’s educational programming, offering an improved environment for outdoor learning, mentorship, and reflection.
“We are honored to support the incredible work that Hands of Mercy Everywhere does for young mothers in our community,” said OMCAR President Carla Lord. “This project is a reflection of REALTORS®’ ongoing commitment to building not just homes, but stronger communities.”
The initiative was led by OMCAR’s Community Awareness Committee, which focuses on service projects that directly benefit Marion County’s residents and neighborhoods. Volunteers dedicated their time, resources, and professional skills to bringing this project to life.
Hands of Mercy Everywhere provides residential and outreach programs for teen mothers, offering parenting classes, academic support, and life coaching to help young women succeed. The addition of this new deck marks a significant improvement to their facility and enhances the organization’s capacity to deliver impactful services.
This project represents another step in OMCAR’s broader mission to engage in meaningful community partnerships and improve lives across Marion County.
About Hands of Mercy Everywhere:
Hands of Mercy Everywhere is a nonprofit organization in Belleview, Florida, dedicated to transforming the lives of teenage mothers and their children through housing, education, and faith-based mentorship.
Advocating for Housing and Homeownership
OMCAR actively collaborates with local officials, Florida Realtors® and the National Association of REALTORS® to advocate for policies that promote fair housing, sustainable development, and affordable homeownership. Through public awareness campaigns and legislative engagement, the association helps ensure every Marion County resident has a place to call home.
A Trusted Resource
OMCAR continues to serve as a trusted source of real estate knowledge and ethical leadership in the community. Through professional development, member accountability, and transparent communication, the association builds public confidence in the local housing market and the professionals who serve it.
3105 NE 14th Street, Ocala, FL. 34470 352-629-2415 • www.OMCAR.com
About OMCAR
Founded in 1924, the Ocala Marion County Association of REALTORS® represents over 2,600 members dedicated to professionalism, service, and community involvement. Through advocacy, education, and outreach, OMCAR helps shape a better future for Marion County — one home, one family, one act of service at a time. For more information, visit www.omcar.com.
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Visit These New Home Models
Visit These New Home Models
855-927-4104
Discover a variety of beautifully designed and quality-built homes to suit every need
Garnet – Inventory Home Available Now!
5922 SW 73rd Terrace, Ocala, FL 34474
1,921 a/c sq. ft. single family home priced at $398,000.
Featuring 4 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2 car garage, great room, breakfast area, laundry suite, and patio.
Marigold - Inventory Home Available Now!
5894 SW 77th Court, Ocala, FL 34474
3,374 a/c sq. ft. single family home priced at $507,315
Featuring 5 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, 3 car tandem garage, great room, dining room, nest, loft, laundry suite, and covered lanai.
Garnet Model – 6416 SW 78th Court Ocala, FL 34474
1,921 a/c sq. ft. single family home starting at $355,990. Featuring 4 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2 car garage, great room, breakfast area, laundry suite, and patio.
Sable Model – 6428 SW 78th Court Ocala, FL 34474
2,420 a/c sq. ft. single family home starting at $372,990.
Featuring 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 2 car garage, great room, living room, game room, breakfast area, laundry suite, and patio.
Gardenia Model – 6440 SW 78th Court Ocala, FL 34474
2,671 a/c sq. ft. single family home starting at $429,990. Featuring 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, 3 car tandem garage, great room, dining room, nest, laundry suite, and covered lanai.
Larkspur Model – 6464 SW 78th Court Ocala, FL 34474
3,089 a/c sq. ft. single family home starting at $449,990. Featuring 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, 3 car tandem garage, great room, dining room, flex room, nest, laundry suite, and covered lanai.
Marigold Model – 6476 SW 78th Court Ocala, FL 34474
3,374 a/c sq. ft. single family home starting at $465,990. Featuring 5 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, 3 car tandem garage, great room, dining room, nest, loft, laundry suite, and covered lanai.
Beatrix - Inventory Home Available Now! 10880 SW 101st Loop Ocala, FL 34481
2,142 a/c sq. ft. single family home priced at $409,000 featuring 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2 car garage plus golf cart space, living room, flex room, and laundry suite.
Sunflower Model - 8891 SW 75th Loop, Ocala, FL 34481
1,967 a/c sq. ft., single-family home starting at $334,990 featuring 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2 car garage, great room, breakfast nook, laundry suite, and covered lanai.
Wisteria Model - 8895 SW 75th Loop, Ocala, FL 34481
2,126 a/c sq. ft., single-family home starting at $348,990 featuring 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2 car garage, great room, laundry suite, and covered lanai.
Beaumont Model - 10458 SW 96th Loop, Ocala, FL 34481
2,202 a/c sq. ft., single-family home starting at $397,490 featuring 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2 car garage with workshop space, great room, breakfast area, flex room, laundry suite, and covered lanai.
Magnolia Model - 10446 SW 96th Loop, Ocala, FL 34481
2,493 a/c sq. ft., single-family home starting at $418,490 featuring 2 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 2 car garage with golf cart space, great room, breakfast area, flex room, den, laundry suite, and covered lanai.
Arlington Model - 9584 SW 82nd Street Road, Ocala, FL 34481
2,211 a/c sq. ft., single-family home starting at $464,490 featuring 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, 3 car garage, great room, breakfast area, workshop space, laundry suite, and a covered lanai.
Aberdeen Model - 9564 SW 82nd Street Road, Ocala, FL 34481
2,907 a/c sq. ft., single-family home starting at $501,490 featuring 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, 3 car garage, great room, 2nd master suite, breakfast area, flex room, laundry suite, and a covered lanai.
PULTE HOMES
Marion Ranch Bloomfield Model - 8316 SW 46th Ave, Ocala, FL 34476 • 352-677-2262
2,503 a/c Sq. Ft. Single-family home starting at $396,990 featuring
countertops,
and covered lanai. Medina Model - 8322 SW 46th Ave, Ocala, FL 34476 • 352-677-2262 2,230 a/c Sq. Ft.
Dunnellon Ocala