Officials, environmental groups oppose railroad tie shredding operation
Florida Emergency Communications Board declines to act on 911 fee increase despite calls from counties
By Jennifer Hunt Murty jennifer@ocalagazette.com
Members of the Florida Emergency Communications Board (ECB) heard urgent pleas from county 911 coordinators and law enforcement officials on Oct. 16 to raise the state’s 911 fee, currently set at 40 cents per phone line, but ultimately took no action to recommend or implement an increase.
During public comment, Jody Kenyon, president of the Florida 911 Coordinators Association, told the board that “revenues have remained static since 2015, while expenses for these systems have dramatically increased.” Kenyon urged the ECB to consider “expanded commitment in discussion on increasing the fees to support 911 communications in the state of Florida.”
Florida law authorizes the board to set the monthly 911 fee up to 50 cents per phone line, according to Florida Statute 365.172(2)(a). Yet the board has not exercised that authority in nearly a decade, even as technology costs and public expectations have grown, and counties statewide are mandated to enhance their systems to incorporate Next Generation 911 technology.
See 911 fee page A7
By Jennifer Hunt Murty jennifer@ocalagazette.com
Track Line Rail LLC, a Texas-based company seeking to operate a creosote-treated railroad tie shredding and grinding facility on East McKinney Avenue in unincorporated Marion County, is facing mounting pressure to abandon the project.
Currently, high mounds of railroad ties stretch roughly 500 feet along the tracks, less than
1,000 feet from the Rainbow River. A sharp chemical odor is noticeable about 100 feet from the piles, which are visible from Williams Street, Dunnellon’s main thoroughfare. Employees at nearby businesses said the stacks have grown taller in recent weeks, now rising above the tree line behind their buildings.
During a special Dunnellon City Council meeting on Oct. 27, Marion County Commission Chair Kathy Bryant confirmed that the county has issued a
notice of violation to Track Line Rail and the property owner.
“We are already telling them that they are in violation of county ordinances within the unincorporated area of the county,” Bryant said. “We’re on it, we’re working on it hard and fast, because we all can agree on one thing — how important our environment is and our watershed surrounding the head spring at the Rainbow River.”
SNAP benefits uncertainty causes angst
If the federal government shutdown continues into November, those relying on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program will not receive benefits.
By Andy Fillmore
Jennifer Hunt Murty and Susan Smiley-Height
As the federal government shutdown stretches on, thousands of Marion County families who rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) could face a gap in food benefits next month.
SNAP, formerly known as food stamps, is the nation’s largest anti-hunger program, serving more than 3 million Floridians each month. Benefits are typically issued at the start of each month to help low-income individuals and families buy groceries.
In a notice issued Oct. 23, the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) warned that the federally funded program “will not issue November 2025 benefits until federal funding is restored.”
“Floridians will not receive SNAP benefits,” the notice stated, adding that the program is administered through the U.S. Department of Agriculture, whose funding has been disrupted by the shutdown.
LONG LINE FOR FREE FOOD
On Oct. 29, more than 400 cars were in line for a free food distribution event worked by Wings of Faith Fellowship Church volunteers and supported by
His Compassion Food Bank and Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida.
The event took place at the Ocala Rotary Sportsplex of Marion County, and some vehicles had signs on the windshield indicating they were picking up food for more than one family.
Several people at the event said they were concerned about their SNAP benefits.
“Elly,” 39, the single mom of a 12-yearold daughter, was in tears when she
stopped her dark brown Nissan at the end of the distribution line to talk to some of the volunteers.
“I don’t know what I’m going to do,” she said about managing her budget after the announced pause in SNAP benefits on Nov. 1. “I’d rather starve myself than not feed my daughter properly.”
See SNAP benefits, page A8
Classic play comes to life in Ocala
‘The Crucible’ will take audiences to Salem, Massachusetts, at a frightening time in history.
By Susan Smiley-Height susan@magnoliamediaco.com
One online reference among hundreds of them related to Arthur Miller’s “The Crucible” notes that he wrote in an introduction of the work that, “I believe that the reader will discover here the essential nature
of one of the strangest and most awful chapters in human history.”
Based on historical people and real events, the classic play about witch-hunts and trials in 17thcentury Salem, Massachusetts, “is a searing portrait of a community engulfed by hysteria,” the item states.
And now that time, and those people, will come to life
on the stage of the Ocala Civic Theatre, also known as The Civic, from Oct. 30 to Nov. 16, for 15 performances. In 1692 in Salem, in the Puritan colony of Massachusetts, Rev. Samuel Parris (Tom Ferreira) is horrified to find a dozen girls dancing in the forest at midnight, including his daughter, Betty (Lilly Gonzalez) and niece, Abigail Williams (Katarina Shaner). Mercy Lewis (Gianna Hess), Mary Warren (Iyanna Lynell) and Susanna Walcott (Kaitlyn Nast) are among the girls with them. Tituba (Alexis Medina), an enslaved woman of the Parris household, sings her songs from Barbados
See Classic play, page A11
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Mounds of railroad ties along the railroad track that runs through downtown Dunnellon and Chatmire on Oct. 23, 2025. [Jennifer Hunt Murty]
Alexa Post, 9, helps load food into a car with her mother, Melonee Post, right, and Peggy Burner, left, during the Wings of Faith Fellowship Operation Compassion food distribution at the Ocala Rotary Sportsplex on Southeast Maricamp Road in Ocala on Oct. 29.
James Taylor III is in the role of John Proctor, with Katarina Shaner as Abigail Williams.
OCOMMUNITY NEWS: GAS GIVEAWAY, FUN OLYMPICS, PUT DOWN THE PHONE, NEW GRANT, NEW DIRECTOR AND SHOEBOX DROP-OFFS
By Susan Smiley-Height susan@magnoliamediaco.com
FREE GAS GIVEAWAY
n Oct. 18, Revealing Truth Ministries Outreach
Christian Center hosted its sixth annual free gas giveaway. This was the first year the church hosted the giveaway under its Beyond Us Community Development Corporation. By the end of the event, 130 families had received $20 worth of free gas.
Volunteers gathered at the WAWA gas station 8380 SW State Road 200 with cheerful hearts and helping hands, pumping gas and spreading encouragement to families from across the area, according to Beyond Us CDC President Latasha Smith. The West Port High School football team also joined in with teamwork and enthusiasm, Smith noted in the news release.
FUN OLYMPICS SET FOR NOV. 12
Kenny’s Place Nursery has announced that its second annual Fun Olympics will begin at 10 a.m. Nov. 12, at 7677 SE 41st Court, Ocala.
The event will bring together participants from Transitions Life Center, ARC of Marion and Bridge to Hope. The Fun Olympics will feature field day–style games and activities designed to promote teamwork, physical activity and community spirit. Every participant will receive ribbons and a medal, and each day program will take home a trophy.
“The Fun Olympics is one of our favorite events of the year,” said Betsy Poore, director of operations at Kenny’s Place, in the news release. “It’s a wonderful opportunity for our community to come together, enjoy some friendly games and celebrate the amazing individuals and organizations we’re proud to work alongside.”
Community members are encouraged to come out and cheer on the athletes.
To learn more, contact Poore at (352) 867-1213 or betsy@kennysnursery.org and visit kennysnursery.org
PUT DOWN THE PHONE DAY ON NOV. 15
The Marion County Children’s Alliance, in partnership with community leaders and community partners, has launched the Put Down the Phone Day campaign, a countywide initiative encouraging residents to take a mindful break from their screens and reconnect with the world around them on Nov. 15.
The campaign seeks to raise awareness about the impact of excessive screen time on mental health, relationships and overall well-being. The effort was born out of a focus group discussion held earlier this year by the MCCA, where members identified mental health, largely influenced by social media and screen
use as the number one issue impacting youth, according to the news release.
Funded through community donations, the campaign emphasizes moderation over elimination, helping individuals and families learn to use technology in healthier, more intentional ways.
The campaign will continue throughout the fall, leading up to the Look Up Marion Summit on Dec. 3, where national speaker Mandee Hamann will present to educators, parents, health professionals and community leaders to share insights, strategies and stories about the importance of digital balance and mental well-being.
Tickets to the summit can be purchased at mcchildrensalliance.networkforgood.com/ events/92346-look-up-marion-put-down-the-phonesummit
Residents can visit lookupmarion.com to take a pledge, download free resources and learn about local events on Nov. 15.
LICENSE PLATE FUNDS NEW PROGRAMS
The Autism Services Council recently announced it is awarding $158,000 in grants to 18 nonprofit organizations across Florida, bringing services to 2,500 individuals with autism and related disabilities. Funding for the grants is generated by sales and renewals of the Florida “Support Autism Programs” specialty license plate.
Among the grantees is the Advocacy Resource Center Marion, Inc. (Arc Marion), for safe, reliable door-to-door transportation for adults with disabilities to attend day programs and community outings that foster independence and social integration.
NEW EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Better Together, a nonprofit dedicated to families and children, has named LaShara Lofton as executive director of its North Central Florida region.
Lofton will work alongside CEO Megan Rose to oversee, support and grow Better Together’s presence in 18 counties spanning from Marion to Madison. Lofton has more than 20 years of experience working in child welfare and case management and previously worked in several roles for the Florida Department of Children and families.
To learn more about Better Together, go to bettertogetherus.org
OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD
Samaritan’s Purse sends gift-filled Operation Christmas Child shoeboxes to children in need around the world. Since 1993, these gift-filled shoeboxes have been delivered to millions of children around the world.
Shoebox gifts, packed with fun toys, school supplies and personal care items, bring joy and hope to boys and girls who may have never received a gift of their own. The National Collection Week is set for Nov. 17–24.
Donations are being accepted now at these locations: samaritanspurse.org/operation-christmas-child/dropoff-locations
DRIVER SOUGHT IN FATAL HIT-AND-RUN
By Andy Fillmore andy@ocalagazette.com
The Florida Highway Patrol is seeking the driver of a SUV that struck two men working on a disabled dump truck along a southwest Marion County roadside the evening of Oct. 28 and fled the scene. One man died and the other was seriously injured, according to an FHP press release.
The hit and run occurred around 7:30 p.m. on Southwest 27th Circle, just north of Southwest 137th Loop, the press release stated.
According to the release, the two men, ages 76 and 45, were working on a disabled dump truck on the right-side grassy shoulder of Southwest 27th Circle when an SUV approached traveling south on Southwest 27th Circle and the “driver … failed to safely negotiate a left-hand curve and exited the roadway while approaching the pedestrians.
The SUV entered the west grass shoulder and struck the deceased victim with its right side. The SUV then struck the injured man with its right front section, causing him to be
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propelled south and collide with a parked and unoccupied SUV.”
Both men were transported to a hospital, where the older man was pronounced deceased.
The press release states that the driver first pulled over then fled the scene.
An “independent witness” described the vehicle that left the scene as a gray or silver Jeep Cherokee.
Anyone with information is asked to call Cpl. Justin Bard at (352) 512-6643 or reach out to Crime Stoppers of Marion County at ocalacrimestoppers.com
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Lisa Savage and Susan Sheaves work at the free gas giveaway event.
[Submitted photo]
LaShara Lofton
Art for all
The annual Ocala Arts Festival again excels.
By Susan Smiley-Height susan@magnoliamediaco.com
This year’s Ocala Arts Festival offered “chamber of commerce” blue skies and fair winds for most of both days. The event, which saw more than 140 exhibitor booths sprawled all around downtown Ocala, took place Oct. 25 and 26.
Organized by Fine Arts For Ocala, the nonprofit’s many volunteers could be seen all over the area in their orange shirts and vests. The annual arts event is a key FAFO initiative, along with the beloved Symphony Under the Stars tradition that takes place each Mother’s Day.
In addition to all the creative arts on display, the festival included live entertainment, children’s art and activities at Citizens’ Circle and downtown eateries and vendors offering lots of tasty foods and tempting beverages.
The event also is a reunion of sorts, with many people running into friends old and new, former colleagues and even extended family members. And dogs — lots and lots of canines of all sizes, shapes and colors, some walking, some being carried and others riding in style in strollers.
This year’s featured artist was Ummarid “Tony” Eitharong. The winners of the judged competition included Eitharong earning a $2,500 Award of Excellence, along with the same for Joyce Slate.
Those receiving $1,000 Awards of Distinction were Michael Steddum, William Kidd Clay, David Burton, Olga Nenazhivina, Chris Matias, Beth Garcia and Rita Holanda.
Earning Awards of Merit and $500 were Jeff Ripple, Galina Kostanda-Lambert, Susan Currier, Rob Sowers, Sandra Matasick, Taymon Loringsmith, Kate Meyer Fitzpatrick, Micah Mullen, Karin Villaroman and Ryan Michael Kelly. Emerging Artist Best in Show honors went to Robert Varis.
Best in Show honors, along with $5,000, went to sculptor David Figueroa.
To learn more, go to fafo.org
Photos by Bruce Ackerman / Ocala Gazette
Justin Alsedek, an Ocala artist with Gypsea Arts, talks with Wendy Taylor about his self-portrait titled “Me, Myself and Oh...” at his booth during the FAFO Ocala Arts Festival in downtown Ocala on Oct. 26, 2025.
A painting by artist Keith Newby of Dothan, Alabama, is shown.
Mike Weakley, the stilt walker, waves to people as he walks through downtown Ocala.
Lorelai Thigpen, 7, gets a ride on her mother, Sierra’s lap, as they get pushed by Michael Thigpen.
Brittany Claus of Gator Bonnet Crafts in Ocala sits in her booth surrounded by her stained-glass artwork.
Donovan McNeish, 16, right, and Chris Standish, left, both of Boy Scout Troop 172, sell ice cold water.
Andie Woda of Ocala works on needle felting miniature animals and figurines out of wool.
Sabrina Blunt, Sofia Carter, 7, and Keith Carter enjoy the outing.
John Kellum of Orlando is surrounded by his Raku fired pottery.
Nicola Barsaleau of LaCrosse works on etching a press for a print.
CF Webber Gallery to host ‘There’s Nothin’ to Do in Slowcala!?’ exhibition
Staff report
For years, Ocala has often been referred to as “Slowcala.”
Local photographer Tommy Cuevas thinks it’s time to retire the old nickname that went with Ocala’s reputation as a sleepy town with nothing to do. His upcoming solo exhibition, “There’s Nothin’ to Do in Slowcala!?” captures the everyday vibrance, human and hidden beauty of a community alive with activity and will be on view at the CF Webber Gallery from Oct. 27-Dec. 11.
“Tommy is a friendly and familiar presence in Ocala, and is rarely seen without his camera,” said Jacqueline Bozman, Webber Gallery coordinator, in the press release. “Over the years, he has become known for his ability to turn ordinary happenings into extraordinary visual stories. His work shines a spotlight on the people who bring Ocala to life, revealing the personality, resilience and energy of a community that continues to grow and evolve.”
Visitors will see Ocala in a new light, through photographs that capture powerful demonstrations of spirit and expression, the grandeur of the World Equestrian Center and late-night moments of laughter at neighborhood hangouts, all documenting a growing city in motion.
An opening reception was held on Oct. 30. Webber Gallery hours are 10 a.m.to 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday and admission is free. The gallery is
Photos by Tommy Cuevas “I75
“Summer Jams”
“The Bridle”
“The Dip”
Greenway Reserve
City council considers 55-home subdivision plan.
By Jamie Berube jamie@ocalagazette.com
Aproposal to build 55 single-family homes on a 12.61-acre parcel in a developing area of Ocala is drawing concerns from residents about the increased traffic the project would bring to their quiet neighborhood in the northeast part of the city.
The proposed Greenway Reserve subdivision would have an average density of 4.3 homes per acre on the property owned by the Green Family Declaration of Trust. The development, led by Boyd Real Estate Group and Tillman and Associates Engineering LLC, plans 0.54 miles of internal roadways with primary access via Northeast 25th Avenue and secondary access via Northeast 30th Street.
On Aug. 25, Ocala City Engineer Sean Lanier recommended approval of the conceptual plan, contingent on submitting an improvement plan before final platting.
The Ocala Planning & Zoning Commission approved the plan on Sept. 8, with draft minutes noting resident concerns about traffic. The property was rezoned from institutional to planned development in November 2024.
“The applicant has submitted improvement plans, which are currently under staff review,” said Ocala Public Information Officer Greg Davis. The project awaits completion of the improvement plan review and a public hearing for the developer’s agreement before final plat approval.
“The developer’s agreement for the subdivision will include a public hearing before the city council. Due to recent changes in state legislation, final plats are now processed administratively rather than through public hearings; however, the developer’s agreement must be finalized prior to final plat approval, ensuring continued compliance and transparency in the process,” Davis said.
Davis addressed traffic concerns linked to the nearby Millwood and Emerson Pointe developments.
“A traffic statement is required as part of the improvement plan review. A full traffic impact study is not required because the projected traffic generation falls below the threshold of 100 PM peak-hour net new trips. According to the Institute of Transportation Engineers Trip Generation Manual, the national standard used by Ocala, single-family detached homes typically generate one vehicular trip during the peak hour. This standard ensures a consistent and data-driven approach to evaluating roadway impacts for residential developments,” Davis said. Davis also addressed environmental considerations.
“Environmental assessments for the property are regulated by the appropriate state agencies. Tree inventories are included as part of the improvement plan submission, which is currently under city review. The project includes an amenity center and designated open space areas that meet the requirements of the approved planned development plan and associated standards book, supporting the ‘greenway’ concept through integrated green space and buffer design,” he said.
Ocala resident Marianne J. Mylan, in a letter dated Sept. 15, expressed specific concerns about the development to city council, Mayor Ben Marciano, City Manager Pete Lee and council member Barry Mansfield
“Before you make a decision to provide authorization to proceed with this project, I am respectfully requesting if you could provide the immediate neighborhood with your vision of how the integration of this
many people on such a small space and all requiring a vehicle to move from point A to point B would work, especially because the Millwood project nearby on 35th Street and Emerson Pointe on 28th Street are both in the process of building and due to the size of these two projects it will already add in excess of 750 people and likely minimally 200 vehicles onto 25th Avenue which is a two-lane road,” she wrote.
Mylan estimated the 55 additional homes could add “minimally 200 people of which most likely at least 100-110 will be adults who will also be driving and owning vehicles” and “likely at least 80-100 children on these same 12 acres with no other entertainment in the immediate area but their rather tiny backyards.”
Mylan also raised concerns about open space.
“As was noted at the planning meeting of Oct. 21, the builders promised that they would adhere to their 40% free space. This space should not include people’s front and back yards, as that is not ‘free space.’ They do intend to build 4.2 homes on each acre, so the individual lots are quite small. There was no mention of any space for a children’s play area or for a basketball court or any free space for all these kids,” she wrote. “Currently, that area, my neighborhood, is quiet and peaceful. On 25th Avenue, across the street, there are single-family homes facing the street. Traffic is light and the single lanes of 25th Avenue can handle the flow.”
She estimated traffic increases, stating, “A conservative estimate of the increase in traffic is likely 200 or so vehicles from these three locations onto 25th Avenue between 7:30 and 8:30 a.m. as all these moms and dads have to go to work and most likely most will move south on 25th Avenue to Bonnie Heath.”
Mylan called for a comprehensive traffic study.
“At the meeting, the builders noted that they would conduct a traffic study. This study will be based on current conditions and not include any of the vehicles from the housing currently being built in the area so the estimate will not be accurate and should not be used. Technically and perhaps even legally, this study must be completed by the city of Ocala before even considering this project and must include the added traffic from the other two already ongoing projects at Millwood and Emerson Pointe based on full occupation,” she wrote.
Mylan’s letter proposed an alternative.
“It is understood that the property was sold with the intention to build houses on it and no, neither I nor many others are against building houses on that property, but 55 homes is just too many to be accommodated by the infrastructure. I do believe that 5 homes per 2 acres, such as we have across 25th Avenue is quite appropriate so that lot will roughly accommodate 22 homes. No one is trying to deny the property owners the opportunity to make a few dollars, so my suggestion is to really build nice expensive homes, and they will make the same amount of money. Twenty-five cars coming and going during the rush sure beats 100 cars. 25th Avenue may accommodate that without too many issues,” she wrote.
Mylan penned additional concerns with schools.
“Can the school district accommodate this many kids? Remember, there will already be a significant increase from the new houses on 28th Street and 35th Street. We are not talking about four or five kids more each grade,” she wrote.
“What is concerning is that these kids out of boredom will walk through the neighborhood streets loitering and wondering what havoc they can create ‘just for fun and something to do,’” she continued.
PROPERTY TAX TIFF
By Jim Turner The News Service of Florida
Showing signs that divisions from the 2025 legislative session remain, Gov. Ron DeSantis made his opinion clear about a series of Florida House proposals to lower property taxes. In an online post late Oct. 22, DeSantis criticized proposed constitutional amendments announced by House Speaker Daniel Perez, R-Miami. Perez responded Thursday that he’s still waiting to see a plan from DeSantis, who has made a priority
Mylan also raised questions about construction.
“Another issue may be the actual construction of these homes as they are close together. It is my impression that they will be built from wood, perhaps even with complete paneling as in modular homes, barely meeting all the requirements and hoping for an inspector who will approve it. They most certainly will not be made from brick, like the surrounding houses. That means that during a hurricane such as Milton the owners will likely have to comply with mandatory evacuation orders from the city. These evacuation orders will also include the Millwood estates and the Emerson Pointe project. Is there enough space for these people to go to? We are talking
a combined 1,000 people. What about in case of a fire or a medical emergency? Can the fire department handle this? What if they are needed during the rush with traffic backed up on both lanes of 25th Avenue? How will they provide an adequate response time? Did anyone consider this?”
According to Davis, city staff have met with residents who raised concerns during the Planning & Zoning Commission meeting to explain the development review process and how each project must meet the city’s adopted regulations and standards.
of asking voters in 2026 to slash property taxes. DeSantis curtly dismissed the House approach, which included seven proposed amendments.
“Placing more than one property tax measure on the ballot represents an attempt to kill anything on property taxes,” DeSantis said on X. “It’s a political game, not a serious attempt to get it done for the people.”
Perez, who announced the House proposals last week, fired back at DeSantis.
“The governor has not produced a plan on property taxes. Period,”
Perez said. “It’s unclear what he wants to do. I’ve personally reached out to share with him the House’s proposals and he has, so far, not wanted to engage in a conversation. So when the governor says he wants to ‘abolish’ property taxes. How? We don’t have any details.”
In a memorandum to House members last week, Perez touted the idea of offering voters multiple proposals.
“If we have faith in the voters to elect us, we should not be afraid to let them be a part of the conversation about the taxes they pay,” Perez wrote. “It is our position that the House does not need to limit itself in presenting one single plan, but instead
allow the people of Florida the ability to choose some, all, or none of the proposals on the 2026 ballot.”
DeSantis and Perez have clashed repeatedly during the past year, including on tax issues.
Making major property tax changes would require lawmakers passing a proposed constitutional amendment — or multiple proposed amendments — and then getting voter approval.
Among the House proposals, Rep. Kevin Steele, R-Dade City, is sponsoring a measure (HJR 201) that would eliminate non-school homestead taxes. Meanwhile, Rep. Monique Miller, R-Palm Bay, is
sponsoring a proposal (HJR 203) that would phase out nonschool homestead property taxes over 10 years. Under Miller’s proposal, the homestead tax exemption would increase by $100,000 annually.
Currently, homeowners can qualify for a homestead exemption from local government and school district taxes on the first $25,000 of the taxable values of their properties and from local government taxes on the values between $50,000 and $75,000. Perez formed a select committee in the spring to look at property tax issues. The Senate has not released proposals. The 2026 legislative session will start Jan. 13.
Images courtesy city of Ocala
Injunction sought to halt bear hunt
By Jim Saunders The News Service of Florida
Arguing that Florida’s decision to hold a bear hunt in December is not based on “sound” science and research, a conservation group this week asked a judge for an emergency temporary injunction to halt the hunt.
The group Bear Warriors United made the injunction request as part of a lawsuit filed in September challenging the decision by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission to approve the hunt. As many as 172 black bears could be killed during the hunt, which is scheduled from Dec. 6 to Dec. 28.
“The FWC’s (Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s) hunt, if it is allowed to go forward, will result in the needless destruction of Florida black bears,” the injunction motion said. “Bear Warriors has brought forward competent, substantial evidence showing that FWC’s action in authorizing the bear hunt has violated its constitutional duty to manage the state’s wildlife in a responsible, sound manner.”
The commission has not filed arguments in the case, but Leon County Circuit Judge Angela Dempsey said in a scheduling order Oct. 20 that the agency plans to seek dismissal of the lawsuit. Dempsey will hold a hearing during the week of Nov. 17 to Nov. 21 or on Nov. 24 or Nov. 25 on the Bear Warriors United request for an injunction and on the commission’s motion to dismiss the case, the order said.
Dempsey on Monday also approved a request by the group Safari Club International to intervene in the case to help defend the hunt.
In its motion to intervene, Safari Club International called hunting a “valuable tool” for managing black bears across the country.
“Almost every North American jurisdiction with a sizable resident black bear population maintains a regulated bear hunting season,” the organization said in the filing. “Bear populations in these jurisdictions are stable or increasing.”
Bear hunting has long been controversial in Florida, with the last hunt held in 2015. When the commission approved this year’s hunt on Aug. 13, Commissioner Gary Lester said the agency’s staff members brought forward “good, solid science for us to follow.”
Under the plan, hunters who received
“We
By Arthur Miller
October
permits through a lottery-style process will each be able to kill one bear, with a maximum total of 172 bears killed. The hunt will be held in four areas of the state — in the Apalachicola region west of Tallahassee, in areas west of Jacksonville, in an area north of Orlando and in the Big Cypress region southwest of Lake Okeechobee.
The state had an estimated 4,050 bears in 2015, considered the most recent figures by the commission.
Bear Warriors United attorneys argued Oct. 21 in the injunction motion that the decision to approve the hunt was “not
based on sound research, science and management techniques.” Among other things, the motion contended that the decision was “based on obsolete data and assumptions, even though updated data is becoming available.”
“Despite having the ability to obtain better scientific data, the FWC commissioners directed staff to prepare a black bear hunt based on stale information,” the motion said. “The result, the Bear Warriors will show, is that bear hunts are being allowed in areas where the bear population is declining or has declining stability.”
IHMC OCALA EVENING LECTURE SERIES CONTINUES Dr.
Dave Rabin will present ‘The Art and Neuroscience of Self-Healing and Learning’ on Nov. 13.
By Susan Smiley-Height susan@magnoliamediaco.com
On Nov. 13, at its campus in downtown Ocala, the Institute for Human & Machine Cognition’s evening lecture series will feature Dr. Dave Rabin, a board-certified psychiatrist, neuroscientist, entrepreneur and inventor who has studied resilience and the impact of chronic stress for more than 15 years.
Rabin was slated to speak during the 2024 evening lecture series, but his presentation was cancelled as Hurricane Helene roared through the area.
Rabin specializes in treatment-resistant mental illnesses including depression, anxiety, posttraumatic stress disorder, psychosomatic disorders, personality disorders, chronic pain disorders, insomnia and substance use disorders using minimal and non-invasive treatment strategies.
The doctor was born and raised in California. He pursued his bachelor’s degree in biology at the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute with a minor in philosophy. He earned his Ph.D. in neuroscience in 2013, received his MD in medicine from the Albany Medical college in 2014 and, from 2014 to 2018, trained in psychiatry at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. He is
courtesy IHMC]
the co-founder and chief medical officer at Apollo Neuroscience, which has developed the first scientifically validated wearable technology that actively improves energy, focus and relaxation, using a novel touch therapy that signals safety to the brain.
In addition to his clinical psychiatry practice, Rabin is executive director of The Board of Medicine and a psychedelic clinical researcher currently evaluating the mechanism of psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy in treatmentresistant mental illnesses.
Rabin comes from a rather studious family. His father is an ophthalmologist and electrical engineer, and his mother is a neurologist and author. His younger brothers have careers as an ophthalmologist and a math teacher. Rabin has been married to Kathryn Fantauzzi, CEO
and co-founder of Apollo Neuroscience, since 2016. The couple splits their time between Monterey, CA, and Pittsburgh, PA.
In Ocala, Rabin will lecture on “The Art and Neuroscience of SelfHealing and Learning.” He said the talk will explore the transformative potential of neuroplasticity — the brain’s ability to form new connections, adapt and grow.
“This lecture will delve into practical strategies for harnessing neuroplasticity to enhance learning, memory and emotional wellbeing. I will cover techniques such as breathwork, touch, movement and the use of psychedelics and wearables to facilitate personal growth and address mental health challenges like trauma, depression and stress. Attendees will gain insights into optimizing brain function to build new habits, acquire skills and long-lasting resilience,” Rabin said.
IHMC is located at 15 SE Osceola Ave., Ocala. Each lecture begins with a reception at 5:30 p.m., with the talk beginning at 6 p.m. Seating is limited. Guests should RSVP to ihmc20251113o.eventbrite.com or call (352) 387-3050 to reserve a spot. To learn more, go to ihmc.us/life/ evening_lectures/ocalalecture-series
Dr. Dave Rabin [Photo
People packed the auditorium during the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission meeting on the proposed Florida black bear hunt at the College of Central Florida in Ocala on May 21, 2025. The plan was approved later in the year. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette file photo]
According to 911.gov, “The success and reliability of 911 will be greatly improved with the implementation of NG911, as it will enhance emergency number services to create a faster, more resilient system that allows voice, photos, videos and text messages to flow seamlessly from the public to the 911 network. NG911 will also improve public safety answering points’ ability to help manage call overload, natural disasters and transfer of 911 calls based on caller location data.”
Revenue from 911 fees is also meant to be used for initiatives to improve cybersecurity for the 911 networks — a strategic priority of the board, along with identifying for consideration a new funding model that could provide additional funds for 911 operations in Florida as costs continue to rise.
COUNTIES SAY SHORTFALLS ARE STRAINING OPERATIONS
Multiple county representatives testified that the current 40-cent fee covers only a fraction of their actual costs. Dan Koenig, senior manager of 911 program services for the Palm Beach County Public Safety Department, who also sits on the executive board of Florida’s chapter of the National Emergency Number Association (NENA), echoed representatives from other counties who stated the 911 fee revenue “covers approximately 28% of our costs,” leaving local general funds to make up the difference.
Sheriff Donald Edenfield of Jackson County said the situation is particularly dire in rural areas. “At 40 cents per month, we cannot sustain current operations or advance for next-gen 911,” he said. His county, he noted, is burdened by calls from travelers along Interstate 10 and U.S. 231.
“More people travel through my county every day than live there,” he noted.
Because 911 fund distributions are allocated per capita, counties with large transient or tourist populations end up subsidizing emergency calls from nonresidents who do not contribute to the fund.
Michelle Sanders, director of 911 Management for Marion County, shared budget documents reflecting a department cost for fiscal year 2025-26 of $8,340,824, offset by only $2,097,000 from the state’s collection of 911 fees — mirroring what other county 911 professionals described during the board meeting.
Sanders said Marion County is in the implementation stage of transitioning to NG911 and expects the process to take two years, during which they will maintain the analog 911 infrastructure that has been in place for decades while all the kinks of the internet protocol (IP)-based system are worked out.
CHAIRWOMAN CITES POLITICAL CLIMATE AGAINST FEE HIKES
ECB Chair Denise Adkins, who also directs the Florida Department of Management Services’ Division of Telecommunications, acknowledged the need for additional revenue but said the “leadership here in Tallahassee is not interested in pursuing” what could be perceived as a tax increase.
That increase would have totaled $1.20 annually for each phone line in Florida.
Adkins acknowledged the needs presented but when asked why the board would not move forward with the 10-cent increase, she said, “It’s a tax, our leadership is not interested in pursuing that.”
She encouraged the 911 professionals gathered to “maintain relationships with House and Senate members” and to advocate directly for funding.
“You can’t go and ask for something when you haven’t built that relationship,” she said, urging them to use the new stakeholder awareness presentation developed by the ECB to lobby lawmakers.
LEGAL UNCERTAINTY OVER BOARD’S AUTHORITY
At the request of ECB member Sheriff Billy Woods of Marion County, the board’s attorney, Patrick Cunningham, was asked to clarify whether the ECB has the independent authority to raise the fee from 40 to 50 cents.
Kenyon argued the statute was “very black and white,” granting the board that power with a two-thirds vote. But Cunningham responded that while the statute provides authority, “there are influences beyond the board,” and that any increase would likely still require legislative review.
“I’d like a future answer of what is really our authority,” Woods said.
“Because it sounds like we have authority, but we really don’t.” He added that he wanted attendees to “understand that these board members don’t have the final authority” and that “in the current climate, any form of an increase ain’t happening.”
No motion, no letter, no action
Despite widespread agreement that Florida’s 911 funding model is outdated, no motion was made to raise the fee by 10 cents or to send a formal letter to the Legislature advocating for change.
Adkins closed the discussion by emphasizing that while counties and associations could pursue advocacy independently, the board itself would not take formal legislative action.
According to data presented in the meeting and accompanying stakeholder briefings, Florida’s 40-cent 911 fee is the lowest in the Southeast, where neighboring states charge an average of $1.36 per line.
Florida’s 911 system, which handles calls for both residents and an estimated 130 million to 143 million annual visitors, now faces a funding gap exceeding $815 million projected this budget year — a shortfall counties must make up.
It has been running at a deficit of more than $100 million since 2018, but there has been no increase in fees approved by the ECB or the state Legislature.
SNAP benefits
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She currently gets about $500 monthly in SNAP food assistance to bolster her income from working in a large retail store. She said she also will check other food banks, such as Saint Theresa Catholic Church in Belleview.
“Cindy” was accompanied by her 17-year-old son, who has special needs. She said she has a family of four and is the caregiver for her son, which keeps her from regular employment. She said she’s concerned about the announced SNAP pause and people becoming desperate.
“Absolutely,” she said her reason for coming to the food distribution was “food stamps,” which were stopped last month with “no explanation.”
Wings of Faith Fellowship Church volunteer Sonny Merrick, a Vietnam War veteran, said some of the people who visit are “hurting.”
One woman in the car line said she was at the food distribution “because I don’t get food stamps” while another woman with a teenage son indicated she was getting prepared for the SNAP pause.
Victoria Muni said she gets some (governmental) assistance and is caring for a grandchild. She remarked on the number of charitable outreaches in the area and said she will visit local food banks during the SNAP pause.
The food being distributed was from His Compassion Food Bank, Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida, Bimbo Bakery and Publix Supermarkets.
“Today’s final numbers … 504 families, consisting of 1,926 people, served within two hours and 50 minutes, 37,075 pounds distributed, consisting of 72% healthy food as defined by USDA standards. Each family received an average of 75.5 lbs. of free food valued at $145. We had 56 volunteers and
“I’d rather starve myself than not feed my daughter properly.” Elly
Broom of Wings of Faith Fellowship Operation Compassion goes over numbers of pounds of food distributed with Rachel Whetstone
DCF IS MONITORING
DCF emphasized that October benefits were issued as scheduled and that funds already on Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards would be available for use — but if the shutdown continues, no new deposits will occur in November. Applicants who have already submitted renewals or paperwork are asked not to reapply, as doing so could delay processing once funding resumes. DCF said it is “monitoring the federal government shutdown closely” and will post updates on its website as soon as benefits can resume.
The agency also noted that recipients may still see notices showing their eligible benefit amounts, even though no money will be loaded to their EBT cards until Congress passes a funding bill.
IMPACT IN MARION COUNTY
The potential pause in benefits comes at a time when Marion County’s food insecurity rate remains higher than the state average, according to data from the Florida Department of Health.
In 2023, 14.9% of Marion County residents were considered to be food insecure, compared to 14.4% statewide, according to figures compiled by the department.
The Feeding America’s “Map the Meal Gap” project estimated that 57,910 residents in Marion County experienced food insecurity in 2023.
Local food banks and nonprofits say they are already bracing for increased demand.
Erika Spence is communications manager for the Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida, which serves seven counties including Marion County. Spence said food distribution figures for Marion County show a dramatic increase in 2025 compared to 2024 and she “expects the demand for food assistance to increase after programs like SNAP are paused Nov. 1.”
The Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida-Marion Branch is at 4045 NE 36th Ave., Ocala. That branch and 42 feeding partners here distributed 323, 000 pounds of food “to kids, families and seniors facing hunger” in September 2024. In September of this year, the branch distributed 693,000 pounds, Spence stated.
Thats an increase of “114% on one year,” Spence noted.
Spence said more than 61,000 Marion County residents receive SNAP benefits and that statistics show one in seven people is experiencing hunger, including one in six kids in Central Florida, including Marion County.
His Compassion Food Bank, at 2000 N.E. 78th St., Ocala, is an outreach of Wings of Faith Church, which also operates Operation Compassion. Rev. Edwin Quintana, CEO of His Compassion, said the number of families visiting the food bank was 887 in September and was up to 966 through Oct. 27.
His Compassion COO, the Rev. Dale Broom, said the outreach is already seeing the effects of pending governmental cutbacks.
“We’ve been inundated with calls recently from people afraid of losing their (governmental) benefits,” Broom said. One of the area’s lead help agencies is Interfaith Emergency Services. Karla Greenway is the organization’s chief executive officer.
“A good portion of our clients are already on SNAP benefits and use us just to finish out the month. We try to make people wait 30 days before coming back for groceries to ensure that we have resources to help every household that needs our assistance. I have no doubt we will have clients asking for an additional visit next month in addition to those who use SNAP and do not normally need our help,” Greenway said.
“We are going to let clients know other pantries or food distributions that they can visit. We are already providing food to approximately 2,500 households each month and anticipate having to turn families away, which we don’t normally have to do. We have a capacity of 80-90 families we can serve each day at our downtown site and once we have that number of clients show up each day, we have to cut off services until the next day. I can see people coming extra early to line up to ensure that they get served,” Greenway continued.
“It’s maddening that the politicians continue to get paid while the citizens that are powerless suffer. I bet if they cut
off the paychecks in Washington, DC, they would resolve the issues at hand much quicker,” she added.
STAY INFORMED
SNAP recipients can check their EBT balance or card status anytime at ebtEDGE.com and DCF will post official updates at myflfamilies.com Until federal funding resumes, food assistance advocates are urging residents to conserve existing benefits and connect with local pantries for interim help.
RESOURCES
Here are some agencies that may be able to help. Many of them will need additional donations, however, to help meet coverage gaps. There also are many food pantry programs at churches throughout the region.
MARION SENIOR SERVICES
The nonprofit, charitable social agency provides supportive care services to elderly, disabled and disadvantaged residents of Marion County. The agency helps people live independently as long as possible by providing them with meals, transit and inhome support. To learn more, go to marioniseniorservices.org
INTERFAITH EMERGENCY SERVICES
Interfaith Emergency Services provides a full range of services and assistance for residents of Marion County. Individuals and families look to the agency for food, clothing, shelter, housing, medication and other basic human needs. Interfaith was created by the local faith-based community to care for those in distress. To learn more, call (352) 620-3501 or go to marionseniorservices.org
BROTHER’S KEEPER
The nonprofit is a ministry of Blessed Trinity Catholic Church. It offers emergency services, a soup kitchen and more. Food is available once every two months for those who are disabled, seniors 65+, legal parent or guardian with at least one child under 17 living with them full time, adults employed full time. To learn more, visit the emergency services center/thrift store at 320 NW 10th St., Ocala, call (352) 6223846 or go to bkocala.org
SALVATION ARMY OCALA
The organization has a social services center at 320 NW 1st Ave., Ocala. It offers food assistance, emergency shelter, transitional housing, halfway housing, homeless resources and family emergency services. To learn more, call (3520 732-8326 or go to ocala.salvationarmyflorida.org
SECOND HARVEST FOOD BANK OF CENTRAL FLORIDA
The nonprofit organization works to end hunger across Brevard, Lake, Marion, Orange, Osceola, Seminole and Volusia counties. Each day, more than 300,000 meals are provided for families, kids and seniors facing hunger through a network of feeding partners. To learn more, go to feedhopenow.org
HIS COMPASSION FOOD BANK
According to its website, the organization provided more than 21 million pounds of food and other items in 2022 to seven counties including Marion, Lake, Sumter, Levy, Alachua, Citrus and Putnam. To learn more, call (352) 3510732 or visit hiscompassionflorida.org
HELP AGENCY OF THE FOREST
Inspired by his own childhood experiences of rural poverty in the Ocala National Forest, David Houck founded the Help Agency of the Forest, Inc. in 1993. The 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization is dedicated to making a difference in the lives of those in need. Sozo Kids is a sponsorship program that provides free food, supplies and access to other programs for children. To learn more, call (352) 299-5830 or go to sozokids.org
THE RIGHT SERVICE AT THE RIGHT TIME
As of July 1, the former 2-1-1 service offered through United Way of Marion County transitioned to The Right Service at the Right Time, which is an online tool used by librarians and library users throughout Florida to find necessary social services and government assistance. To learn more, call (352) 671-8551 or go to uwmc.org and rightservicefl.org
NATIONAL HUNGER HOTLINE
Hunger Free America operates the National Hunger Hotline as a resource for individuals and families seeking information about how to obtain food. The hotline staff connects callers with emergency food providers in their community, government assistance programs and social services. Call 1-866-3-HUNGRY (1-866-348-6479), text 914342-7744 or go to fns.usda.gov/national-hunger-hotline
six staff serving a total of 289 hours today,” Broom texted on Wednesday afternoon.
Photos by Bruce Ackerman / Ocala Gazette
Dottie Blackson and Jennifer Treiber load food into a car.
Jennie Lee-Quinones loads potatoes into bags.
Cary Putnam, left, and Miurka Arenas, right, load carrots into bags.
Dale
of Second Harvest.
Volunteers load food into cars.
Latanga Pinellas, the first person in line at midnight on Wednesday, watches as volunteers load food into her car.
Hundreds of people line up for food.
Susan Mahan organizes bread, bagels and other bread items.
Casting call for young actor
Historic novel “A Land Remembered” is being made into a television series.
By Susan Smiley-Height susan@magnoliamediaco.com
As someone who was personal friends with Patrick Smith when I lived on Merritt Island, I wish I was a boy between the ages of 8 and 13 who knows how to ride a horse.
That’s a role currently being cast for “A Land Remembered,” an upcoming television series based on Smith’s historic novel of the same name.
The series is being created for television by Todd Wiseman Jr. and Christa Boarini. The casting director is Karlie Loland-Ringer, CSA, who has roots in Marion County.
Smith was born in Mississippi and moved to Florida in 1966. He and I became friends when I was the editor of the “Merritt Island Press” weekly newspaper. He would visit our office frequently to pass the time and share stories in his syrupy southern drawl. His daughter, Jane Smith, covered local auto racing for our sports section.
Smith also is the author of “The River is Home and Angel City,” “Forever Island” and “Allapattah” and co-author of “The Last Ride” with former bull riding champion and Williston resident Glen “Pee Wee” Mercer. My copy of that book carries an inscription from Smith that states, “For Susan with best wishes, Patrick Smith. Thanks for all the support you have given me as a writer.”
Smith has been nominated for numerous awards, including seven times for the Pulitzer Prize and five times for the Nobel Prize for Literature. He was
inducted into the Florida Artists Hall of Fame in 1999.
The back cover of “A Land Remembered” makes this statement: “Here are three generations of the MacIvey family, from dirt poor Crackers to wealthy real estate tycoons, in an epic portrayal of the American pioneer will to survive against all odds. Here is the sweeping story of the land, how at first bare survival is scratched from it and then how it is exploited far beyond human need. Here is a rich, rugged history of Florida’s pioneer spirit and natural world.”
According to information provided by Loland-Ringer, this is the character breakdown for the role being cast for a young male actor for the TV series: “Zech
Lecture Series
13, 2025
Begins at 5:30 p.m.
p.m.
Seating
MacIvey is the first true child of the Florida frontier — a boy caught between innocence and survival. At 11, he idolizes his father Tobias, mimicking his grit and strength, but inside carries the quiet empathy and moral intelligence of his mother Emma. He is a child raised in a land where decency and brutality are often the same thing. Zech is the bridge between worlds — the first generation born not from the civilization his parents left behind, but from the wilderness itself. His life is the story of how wonder hardens into wisdom. As he grows older, Zech rides and hunts with the skill of a man but carries the ache of a boy still searching for mercy in a merciless world. In Zech, empathy is not a weakness, it’s the proof of
In “The Art and Neuroscience of Self-Healing and Learning ,” Dr. Dave Rabin, MD, PhD, explores the transformative potential of neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to form new connections, adapt, and grow. This lecture delves into practical strategies for harnessing neuroplasticity to enhance learning, memory, and emotional wellbeing. Dr. Rabin will cover techniques such as breathwork, touch, movement, and the use of psychedelics and wearables, to facilitate personal growth and address mental health challenges like trauma, depression, and stress. Attendees will gain insights into optimizing brain function to build new habits, acquire skills, and long-lasting resilience.
Dr. David Rabin, MD, PhD, a board-certified psychiatrist and neuroscientist, is the co-founder & Chief Medical Officer at Apollo Neuroscience, the first scientificallyvalidated wearable system to improve heart rate variability, focus, relaxation, and access to meditative states by delivering gentle layered vibrations to the skin. In addition to his clinical psychiatry practice, Dr. Rabin is also the Executive Director of The Board of Medicine, and a psychedelic clinical researcher currently evaluating the mechanism of psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy in treatment-resistant mental illnesses.
a soul forged by love in a place that punishes feeling.”
“Looking to cast a Caucasian boy between the ages of 8 to 13. We want to find raw talent. If you have any equestrian ability or have read ‘A Land Remembered’ before, let us know,” LolandRinger noted.
The deadline for a self-taped submission is 12 p.m. EST Nov. 14. In-person callbacks will be held on Nov. 22 in Ocala. The KLR Casting Team will contact selected
talent directly with details and scheduling. All communication will be handled through the talent’s parent or legal guardian.
For details about the audition process, go to klrcreativegroup. com/alandremembered
To learn more about the series, go to alandremembered.org
For information about Smith, visit dos.fl.gov/cultural/ programs/florida-artists-hallof-fame/patrick-d-smith
A” Land Remembered” book cover.
Inscription inside Susan Smiley-Height’s copy of “The Last Ride.”
Stepping back in time
Ocali Country Days will offer living history exhibits and demonstrations of unique skills.
By Susan Smiley-Height susan@magnoliamediaco.com
On Nov. 8 and 9, guests at the annual Ocali Country Days event can step back in time with living history exhibits and demonstrations from skilled craftspeople.
Visitors can experience the Florida of yesteryear with exhibits that highlight life during the 1800s. The Silver River Museum campus, located inside Silver Springs State Park, features pioneer cabins and other outbuildings. Old time skills demonstrations will include sugar cane syrup making, blacksmithing, pottery being fired in a wood kiln, broom making, wood working and more.
The Silver River Museum & Environmental Education Center is a program of Marion County Public Schools. The museum director is Scott Mitchell. The Ocali County Days project is supported in part by the Marion Cultural Alliance.
To learn about some of the skilled crafters who will participate in the event, we did an email Q&A with Stephanie Nevada Baulac and Larry Bedaw. BAULAC
Q: Where were you born and raised, and live now?
I was born in Lakeland, Florida, into a home my parents still live in and spent about half my time between there and with my grandparents in Saluda, North Carolina, a true Appalachian small town, making me raised half in the church and half in the woods. As beautiful as it is in Ocala, my husband’s job is centered in Lakeland and allows me to be closer to family for the time being.
Q: How did you get connected with Ocali Country Days?
Environmental groups
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Robin Huff, Marion County’s code-enforcement manager, said her office notified both the property owner CSX and Track Line Rail owners who had amassed the rail ties on the property that they are not authorized to use the site as a landfill or to shred or grind railroad ties under its current zoning.
Bryant explained that while the company may apply for county approval through a special use permit process, any request would have to go through the Planning & Zoning department and ultimately the Board of County Commissioners, and she said she doubted the county would approve the request.
Bryant said the county’s legal
I was introduced to this incredible event by a fellow craftswoman. Deb Sands, the potter for the event. Once I met Scott, Jennifer and all the amazing demonstrators at Ocali Country Days, I was hooked. It’s the nicest historic event in the state in my opinion. Step back in time, slow down and ask questions.
Q: What skill/craft will you be demonstrating and how did you come to learn it?
As a historic skills teacher and reenactor, you may catch me explaining anything from felting or spinning and basket making to the practicality behind the umpteen layers of clothing I’m wearing. However, I am best known as a broom maker by trade. My journey to become a broom maker started when my grandpa took me to the Southern Highlands Craft Guild on the Blue Ridge Parkway when I was about 12. I was mesmerized by Marlow Gates’ live demonstration, and I simply had to have the broom. Years went by and I saw another broom maker while visiting the Alafiah River Rendezvous. Fascinated, I asked for where to learn the skill and was directed to the John C. Campbell Folk School in North Carolina. After a class with Carole Morse and Glen McLean, I became Glen’s apprentice. He taught me all the tips and tricks in the book and then graciously, upon his retirement, called all his events and said, “I’m not coming but she is.” I have been honored by his faith in carrying on the legacy craft for almost a decade now.
Q: How does your presentation help people understand history?
Haha, well, one look at me and you suddenly understand that you stepped back in time and the effort it took to make anything by hand. You see that it takes planning, manual labor and patience to do anything in the 1800’s and early 1900’s. I’ll walk you through stories of the hard but simple life; from my clothes, tent and
department was reviewing the matter and she expects the issue to be formally discussed at the Nov. 4 county commission meeting, where she plans to ask the board to issue a joint opposition letter similar to ones already submitted by state representatives.
According to prior reporting by WUFT, Track Line Rail previously operated for five months in Newberry, grinding chemicalcoated wooden railroad ties into mulch for use as fuel in cement kilns without proper permits. Residents complained of “foul odors and fine dust.” Regulators from the city, county and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) determined the company had been operating without authorization and ordered it to halt operations. Cleanup there required the removal of more than 10,000 ties and seven
old sayings, what we grew to make brooms, to the many-step process of making what you needed to clean your house without a vacuum.
Q:Why is that important?
When skills are lost, they are often lost forever. The big box store does not make the best broom, and the unconventional education opportunity is a golden one. I realized the importance of historic education when a curious little fella asked genuinely, “Is that 3D printed?” I clutched my heart, stifled a snicker and realized how happy I was that he was here, asking questions, learning, growing, staying curious. I smiled, handed him a piece of broomcorn and explained that it grows this way, a real, live plant.
Q: Anything else you want to add?
Come! It’s worth your time. If you have all day to explore the museum too, or just an hour to lap the demonstrators or get a few things for the hard-to-buy-for person on your Christmas list, join me back in time at Ocali Country Days!
BEDAW
Q: Where were you born and raised, and live now?
I was born and raised in Keene, New Hampshire, and met a sweetheart in New England from Ocala. We married and moved to Ocala to be helpful for family care. We have been here for 27 years.
Q: How did you get connected with Ocali Country Days?
I have been a woodworker/industrial arts educator in public schools. I know Scott and the Ocali Days event because of the wooden cutting boards and craft sales I made to his mother.
Q: What skill/craft will you be demonstrating?
Woodworking in various forms. I enjoy making handmade cutting boards, wooden
truckloads of contaminated mulch. The company later left town without paying penalties.
Company CEO Dave Malay in a phone call with the “Gazette” declined to confirm whether the Newberry materials had been relocated to Marion County or to answer additional questions. Before hanging up, he said only, “We are all legal.”
CITY AND COMMUNITY CONCERNS
Although the proposed site lies outside Dunnellon’s city limits, the city council’s letter of opposition to FDEP regarding the agency’s draft air-pollution permit warned that emissions from the proposed operation could directly affect residents and the Rainbow River, citing expected annual emissions
cooling racks and butter boards of various shapes and designs.
Q: How does your presentation help people understand history?
I like working the Ocali Days event because the crafts are handmade by local artists; this represents yesteryear, the way Ocala was settled and what it took to make this this community rise up and come to life.
Q: Why is that important?
It is important to remember where we came from and how we all can use our talents to give back to our community.
Ocali Country Days will run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov. 8 and 9. It will offer live music, vendors and tours of the museum. Admission is $10 per person; free for ages 5 and younger. Cash and credit cards are accepted at the gate.
To learn more, call (352) 236-5401 and visit silverrivermuseum.com
of 58.77 tons of particulate matter, 67.22 tons each of nitrogen oxides and carbon monoxide, and 23.95 tons of sulfur dioxide, along with volatile organic compounds and fine particulate matter (PM 2.5) that pose respiratory risks to vulnerable populations.
“Creosote is a known hazardous substance containing polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), many of which are carcinogenic,” the city’s letter states. “The processing of creosote-treated materials through shredding and grinding operations creates airborne particles that can transport these toxic compounds into our community and watershed.”
City officials said the company’s proposal to use water to control dust could instead cause runoff contamination into the Rainbow River basin. They argued that the heavy industrial use is incompatible with Dunnellon’s residential and eco-tourism character.
“Our community should not bear the burden of deteriorated air quality for an industrial operation that provides no benefit to our residents,” the council’s letter said. Conservation groups including the Sierra Club and Rainbow River Conservation are urging citizens to lodge their complaints with FDEP. HOW CITIZENS CAN GIVE FEEDBACK
The deadline for public comment on the FDEP draft permit is Friday, Oct. 31. Members of the public can:
• Call FDEP: 850-717-9000
• Email: Agency_Clerk@dep. state.fl.us
Stephanie Nevada Baulac shows Ocali Country Days guests some of her creations. [Photo courtesy Silver River Museum]
Larry Bedaw works in his home shop to restore and refinish patient beds for Hospice of Marion County facilities. [Submitted photo]
Larry Bedaw enjoys making handmade cutting boards like this one. [Submitted photo]
Broom maker Stephanie Nevada Baulac demonstrates her craft. [Photo courtesy Silver River Museum]
OCALA TEEN DIES IN EARLY MORNING CRASH
Sister launches online national petition for safer streets.
By Andy Fillmore andy@ocalagazette.com
In the wake of the tragic traffic crash that claimed the life of 18-year-old Shannon Rushing on Oct. 27, a petition for safer roadways has been launched, along with a GoFundMe account.
The Forest High School senior was struck in the roadway at 1920 NW Blitchton Road in Ocala and passed away from her injuries. An OPD official stated that the call regarding the collision was received around 6:21 a.m.
Kevin Christian, director of public relations for Marion County Public Schools, wrote in an email that Shannon was “well liked” and was “always encouraging others.”
Classic play
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by the fire as the girls dance and run through the woods, noted materials provided by The Civic.
When discovered by her father, Betty faints and remains mysteriously asleep — some say bewitched. The villagers gather at the Parris home to pray and speculate. Rumors of witchcraft spread.
Made bitter by loss and looking for someone to blame, Ann Putnam (Nicole Thomas) and her husband, Thomas (Daniel Roscoe), say their young daughter is bewitched as well. Rev. John Hale (Jack O’Leary), an expert on demonology, arrives to study the devil and his alleged works in Salem.
Desperate to avoid being hanged, the girls begin hurling false charges of witchcraft at townspeople. Accusations abound, and conjured or not, curses begin to befall saints and sinners alike, the materials explain.
John Proctor (James R. Taylor III) and his wife, Elizabeth (Lizzie McDonald), live just outside of town on their farm, where Abigail once had been a servant. Now she has a past with John and a grudge against Elizabeth. Her plan for revenge comes to pass when Ezekiel Cheever (Joshua Michel) arrives at the Proctor farm with a warrant for Elizabeth, also accused of witchcraft.
Kind Rebecca Nurse (Danuta Jacob), a respected elder in the village, tries to talk reason into her neighbors but she too is soon among the accused, to the dismay of her husband, Francis (Garry Michel). Peppery old Giles Corey (Timmy Spence) has a feud with seemingly everyone. As he stirs up discord, he falls under suspicion of darker motives. And Sarah Good (Megan Hilt), disdained as a crazy beggar woman, is one of Salem’s many scapegoats.
Soon the jail is full of the accused, under the jurisdiction of town marshal John Willard (Andrew Zampa) and jail guard Hopkins (Logan Smith). By the time Judge Hathorne (Trafton Crandall) and Judge Danforth (Scott Fitzgerald) preside over the witch trials, the community is in a frenzy of hysteria. An ever-present ensemble (Cadence Czarny, Suriana Im, Zumi Lewis, Sydney Sara Stanley, Grace Lynne Taylor, Isabella Valiente) bears witness.
“The Crucible” is directed by The Civic’s Executive and Artistic Director Greg Thompson. The scenic and projections designer is Mihai Ciupe. The costume designer is Amanda Jones and the assistant costume designer is Lydia Oestreich. The lighting designer is David Castaneda. Sound design is by Jazmine Whipple, with props designed by Laura Bradford. The stage manager is Ginny Riley.
We asked Thompson why this
“School counselors described her as very personable, bubbly and well-liked by many, including her teachers and office personnel. She recently joined the Jesus Club on campus and was always encouraging others with her positive outlook,” Christian stated.
Christian noted that grief counselors would be available for students and staff “as long as needed,” Christian wrote.
Rushing also attended WardHighlands Elementary and Howard Middle schools.
The GoFundMe page, organized by Isaiah Norton to benefit Shanta Norton, who is Rushing’s sister, states that the teenager was a “bright light in this world, she was loving, joyful, positive and full of life” and asks page visitors
to support the family “through donations, PRAYERS, or sharing this page — pray and share the page.”
“We the family received the news of Shannon’s death as a shocking and unbearable loss, which no family could have anticipated,” the page states.
The endeavor had raised $7,963 from 160 donors as of 10 a.m. on Oct. 29.
An online petition calling for legislation dubbed “Shannon’s Law,” aimed at safer roadways for pedestrians, has been posted at change.org
The law would seek safer streets in Florida for pedestrians and “honor Shannon’s memory’s,” according to the post.
“On October 27, 2025, my beloved sister Shannon was struck and killed while walking
play was selected and if he had ever directed it before.
“Our Play Reading Committee fields numerous plays and musicals each year. ‘The Crucible’ has come up several times in the last few years. For our 75th season, we were looking for a variety of shows; shows we’re reprising from the past and some we’ve never done before — representing past, present, future. This show is timeless and an American classic, with such a powerful and important message.
I’ve seen it many times, but this is my first production,” he shared.
He said his approach is to, “Tell the story the very best way we can with the resources we have. We have kept it largely sparse, focusing the show on the dialogue and the story. We’ve set it in a way it could be anywhere in America — 400 years ago, or today.”
“I love that we have such a diverse talent pool — first timers on the stage and veterans alike. I love to teach as I direct, which is one of the reasons I’ve always loved working at The Civic. It presents challenges and amazing rewards as you see people try, learn and come into their own. We have also had a wonderful time designing this production,” Thompson shared.
As for what he hopes audiences will take away, Thompson stated, “I just want them to be engaged and leave talking about it. More interested in the world — where we’ve been and where we’re going.
I really want people to come and be swept up in the momentum of the play and have their own experience.”
Katarina Shaner, who plays
along NW Blitchton Road in Ocala, Florida. That road, shrouded in darkness without adequate lighting, sidewalks, or pedestrian signage, has been a silent perpetrator of numerous accidents, claiming far too many lives, including Shannon’s,” a post by Norton states.
“The infrastructure failed her, and the lack of safety measures on that road is to blame,” the post reads.
The petition post details areas where “Shannon’s Law” would mandate changes including installation of needed lighting on streets with pedestrian traffic, installation of sidewalks and reflective signage where needed and regular audits of dangerous roadway corridors.
As of 10 a.m. Oct. 29, there were 1,351 signatures on the petition.
According to the Florida Highway Patrol Crash Dashboard, 14 pedestrians have died on Marion County roadways through Oct. 23, according to preliminary data.
To learn more, go to gofundme. com/f/honor-shannonrushings-beautiful-spirit and change.org/p/pass-shannons-law-to-ensure-safer-streetsnationwide
Abigail, shared that she is a bit of a vagabond.
“I say I’m from Colorado Springs, Colorado, because that’s where I ultimately ended up for high school but I spent a lot of time moving around as a kid, so I’ve gotten to experience a vast amount of the United States (many cities in Colorado, South Dakota, Arizona, Wisconsin, Utah, Idaho, a few cities in Virginia and now Florida. I moved to Ocala three years ago to be closer to my grandparents and my mom.
She attended college at Roanoke College in Salem, Virginia. She double majored in theatre and secondary education. She began her teaching career five years ago in Stafford, Virginia. She currently is the theatre director at Howard Middle School.
“Howard is the Fine Arts Magnet middle school of Ocala. When I was hired a few years ago, the theatre program was nonexistent. I am proud to now offer three levels of theatre classes, a musical theatre class co-taught with our chorus teacher, Hayley Christie, and an after-school drama program. There are two to three mainstage productions each year and many of my current and former theatre students also perform at OCT.
This is Shaner’s first production at The Civic, but not her first time playing the role of Abigail.
“I have been acting since I turned 11 and have been blessed with many opportunities to
perform, one of them being in ‘The Crucible’ as Abigail when I was a junior in high school. My high school director, Ms. Shafer, is who I attribute my love of acting and theatrical work ethic to. She pushed me to be the best actor and person I could be. She gave compliments sparingly, so when we got them, it was truly appreciated,” Shaner shared.
“She taught me that behind every villain, like Abigail, there is just a person making the choices they think are right using the tools they have. She taught me that villains are to be understood and humanized by the actor, not demeaned and pigeon-holed as a caricature. That first experience playing Abigail expanded my understanding of empathy and human behavior, both on and offstage,” Shaner added.
“I hold Abigail Williams in a very special place in my heart, because I understand her. Yes, she is a villain. She is manipulative, vindictive and aggressive, but she is also just a young girl living in a society that has constrained her, dismissed her and ultimately made her desperate to be seen... to be heard... to be chosen. We are as we always were, as Arthur Miller says,” Shaner continued.
Tom Ferreira, who was born in Portugal and moved to Florida when he was 11, went to Saint John’s High School and graduated from the University of Central Florida. He is no stranger to the stage at The Civic.
“My first show at OCT was ‘Into the Woods’ back in
February of 1992, followed by ‘Carousel.’ I was ‘bit’ immediately. I have no idea how many shows I have been part of at OCT, but it must be over 50. I have also had the privilege of being part of a national tour of ‘The Fantastiks’ as well as some paid summer stock, neither of which would have been possible without OCT, which gave me the training and guest directors opened the doors for me. For anyone wanting to make acting or technical theater a career, OCT has the proper people and tools to help you open the right doors,” he shared.
“I am thoroughly enjoying sharing the stage with James Taylor again. Scott Fitzgerald is a master of vocal control and nuance. His portrayal of Danforth is both frighting and mesmerizing, and I’m over-joyed to be sharing the stage with him for the first time,” Ferreira said of his role in
“The Crucible.”
“Iyanna Skinner is a joy to watch. I’ve seen her in other productions, but she has grown and deepened as an actress in the role of Mary Warren. And then there’s Katarina Shaner, who plays my niece Abigail. She might be a newcomer to OCT, but she is incredible. A consummate actress who gives it her all and holds nothing back. I enjoy working with her as she is a very giving actress on stage and is always present,” he added.
“The rest of the cast is equally as strong, from the ensemble women (who are all teenagers) who have the unenviable task of saying little yet being the glue in all the scenes, to the smaller roles that help move the show along and present a cohesive tale. This show is a true ensemble piece. There are no true leads as there are no heroes or heroines. Everyone contributes to the whole; no one is superfluous,” Ferreira noted.
The Civic is located at 4337 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala. For tickets and more information about “The Crucible,” call (352) 236-2274 or go to ocalacivictheatre.com
Shannon Rushing [Photo courtesy Marion County Public Schools]
Photos by Bruce Ackerman Ocala Gazette
Lilly Gonzalez as Betty Parris, left, and Katarina Shaner as Abigail Williams, right, rehearse a scene from ‘The Crucible’ as members of the Ensemble look on behind them at The Civic in Ocala on Oct. 28, 2025.
‘The Crucible’ features numerous cast members.
Tom Ferreira, Daniel Roscoe, Alexis Medina, Nicole Thomas, Gianna Hess and Jack O’Leary rehearse a scene.
Timmy Spence as Giles Corey, Danuta Jacob as Rebecca Nurse and Tom Ferreira as Rev. Samuel Parris.
People, Places and Things
The dwarven spirit
Fantasy artist and illustrator Christopher Hershberger brings a bit of wizardry to his work.
By JoAnn Guidry
With just one look, Christopher Hershberger’s art will transport you to magical places, where unicorns, dragons, warlocks and priestesses are the fantastical norm. And all these mythical creations are fueled by dwarven energy.
“Dwarven is the culture of the dwarf. In mythology, dwarfs were always revered as master artisans,” explained Hershberger. “It’s something I connect with and aspire to as an artist.”
Hershberger is from a family of artisans, including well-known Ocala artists Mark and Carlynne Hershberger, who are his uncle and aunt.
“There are painters, photographers, illustrators and woodworkers throughout my family. So, I was always encouraged and supported to become an artist,” said Hershberger. “I really never considered any other path, but I have taken several detours. I was initially inspired by cartoons, animation and Bob Ross’ ‘The Joy of Painting’ on PBS. I just loved how Bob Ross made painting accessible to everyone, including people who didn’t even think they could be an artist.”
Hershberger would go on
to get a Bachelor of Science in computer animation but realized that it really wasn’t what he wanted to do.
“I kept looking and that’s when I discovered fantasy art. I studied the great fantasy artists like James Gurney, Boris Vallejo and Frank Frazetta. I had to learn how that wizardry was achieved,” shared Hershberger. “What I love about fantasy art is the story-telling aspect of it. And now all of my art is crafted to tell a story.”
While Hershberger utilizes multiple mediums in his work, drawing is the foundational stepping stone to each piece.
“I think with a pencil. Drawing is a quick way to express an artistic idea. I use a drawing as a starting point for every painting,” he explained. “Once I have the drawing, then I transfer it to a digital platform then to a wood panel that I crafted. Most of my work is in an acrylic base layer with an oil overlay. The oil overlay allows me to bring
in details and interesting light effects as the piece comes to life and tells its story.”
A prime example of Hershberger’s multiple-medium artistry is “Red Priestess,” a 16inch by 20-inch acrylic pour on canvas that won Best in Show at the 2025 NOMA Gallery “Amore” International.
“With an acrylic pour piece like ‘Red Priestess,’ I’ll use different colored paints of various weights. You are pouring the paint down on the canvas, so it will land and dry in interesting ways. I even incorporated copper metallic tempera paint to bring her to life, especially her eyes,” said Hershberger. “In fact, when I was working on her, she would follow me around the room with those eyes and glare at me. She is definitely a presence.”
Hershberger has also painted four Horse Fever horses that are displayed around Ocala/Marion County, including “Lurking at the Surface.” Located at Cone Distributing, the
horse features a quintessential Florida gator in a spring.
Beyond creating his own work, Hershberger is an artist practitioner with Arts in Health Ocala Metro (AIHOM). The nonprofit organization is an initiative of the Lisa Irwin Legacy For Arts & Culture (LILAC Foundation) in partnership with the University of Florida Arts In Medicine Program. AIHOM brings arts to people of all ages and abilities through various community programs.
“I teach painting and drawing to adults with special needs at ARC Marion,” said Hershberger. “I let them decide on what they want to work on, and they love doing the art projects. It’s very fulfilling for me to give back through art. Art should be a part of everyone’s life.”
For more information, go to thedwarvenpalette.com
Photos courtesy of the artist
“Red Priestess”
“Lurking at the Surface”
“AMPlify”
“AEther Ravens”
“Humming Bird Spirit”
Christopher Hershberger
“Girl and her Dragon”
Art group relocates and offers events
The Rainbow Springs Art in Dunnellon gallery has moved and is hosting a Trunk or Treat, new art show and more.
By Margo Wilson Special to the Gazette
From the low-slung green building in Dunnellon’s historic district, with flowers curling around the edges and flamingo and octopus canvases perched in the yard, the Rainbow Springs Art in Dunnellon gallery (RSA) is settling into its new location with the goal of becoming a heartbeat of the community.
Gallery members are anticipating a Nov. 1 grand opening, including a fall art show. They also are looking forward to offering many classes, as well as a Halloween Trunk or Treat and costume parade for kids and pets, as well as many other activities.
Over the summer, the approximately 30 members of this artists’ cooperative moved their paintings, sculptures, jewelry, photography, macramé, woodcarvings, mosaics and other artwork one block north from the gallery’s former location into a building at 20826 Walnut St.
The nonprofit gallery moved after its landlord, the city of Dunnellon, decided to sell the building. The gallery’s former president, Amy Peters Wood, then purchased the gallery’s new location and is the landlady. She refurbished the site, including removing the ceiling to expose overhead beams.
“I love it,” said board member Linda Reitz. “It’s unique. It was a lot of hard work and we’re still working on it.”
The 2,175-square-foot building includes the gallery, a classroom and a kitchen. Plans call for a pottery kiln in a new shed, and festivals and other events on the grass.
The gallery not only displays art but offers classes and sponsors public events. The classes range from watercolor to pine needle basket weaving.
Rowena Murillo, an abstract artist who coordinates the classes and also teaches, said instructors “love what they are teaching.” She said the classes are small and varied and students receive personal attention from the artistinstructors.
Reitz, who’s also an instructor of acrylic and resin art, said she enjoys teaching, especially watching someone discover something new.
“I can see it in their faces,” she said.
Gallery President Kathy Sage, also an acrylic artist, said the theme of the fall art show, which opens Nov. 1, is “What Does
Family Mean to You?” Information is on the gallery’s website, rainbowspringsart.com, where you also can find information about the Oct. 31 Trunk or Treat and Costume Parade.
The Tunk or Treat is from 6 to 7 p.m. with trunk set-up at 5:30 p.m. Advance registration is requested for those who’d like to offer treats from their car trunks.
The Nov. 1 open house is from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., with a pop-up art festival on the lawn and an artists’ reception from 2 to 4 p.m.
Every “First Saturday,” the gallery participates in the Dunnellon downtown market by that name from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The gallery hosts an “Open Studio” every Tuesday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., during which members of the community are invited to drop in and make art.
“Gallery Night” is the third Friday of the month from 5 to 7 p.m., and the Dunnellon Poetry Society meets at the gallery the third Sunday of the month from 2 to 4 p.m.
Area nature photographer Linda Wilinski will speak at the gallery three times, starting Dec. 12. In February, the gallery joins with the nonprofit “Pounds for Pounds” to collect pet food for area shelters.
Also, in February, the gallery will host an art show with an animal theme.
In March, the gallery will present “The Wonders of Wood,” to which wood artist Vic Lehner will bring a wooden replica of a ship.
The gallery’s wood artists also will participate.
Sage said she’d like the gallery to become “a showplace ... an art center that’s not only about the art that’s on display, but also about a place where you can create and be engaged.”
Longtime member and glass artist Sally Saxton said one thing she likes most about the gallery is that, “It’s a place to do stuff.”
And longtime member and wood artist Tom Kinney said he likes “the diversity of media” the gallery offers and that “the gallery promotes sharing with the community at large, as well as with the artists.”
Gayle Miller, an acrylic and watercolor artist who is one of the gallery’s founders, said, “I love the new location and am excited about the future of RSA. Come join us ...”
As Sage sees it, the gallery is “beginning to gel. We have a nice little art tribe. We have people who support each other and support the community and we’re doing things that I don’t know that the gallery ever has done before. We’re finding our stride.”
The gallery is open Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sunday and Monday, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The phone number is (352) 763-4048. The gallery is seeking new members and volunteers.
Photos by Margo Wilson
‘Florida Road Trip’ visits Ocala/Marion County
Where history meets horsepower, with famed drag racer, thoroughbreds and more.
Staff report
Now in its eighth season, “Florida Road Trip” is WUCF›s original series showcasing the stories, cities and culture that define the Sunshine State. From steamboat towns to space labs, the series connects audiences to Florida›s past and present, one road trip at a time. The newest offering in the “Florida Road Trip” series, “Where History Meets Horsepower,” hosted by Emmy Award-winning journalist Scott Fais, “uncovers the many layers of Ocala, from Fort King’s frontier days to Silver Springs’ legendary glass-bottom boats, the global reputation of horse farms and the World Equestrian Center, and the high-octane legacy of drag racing icon Don Garlits,” notes the news release.
Featured interviews include “Big Daddy” Don Garlits, historian Lela Kerley, outdoor/ historical resource program coordinator Andy Warrener, glass-bottom boats Capt. William Cosby, Brock Sheridan with “Florida Horse” magazine and Mason Jordan and Leah Tong with the World Equestrian Center. The show will air at 3 p.m.
Nov. 1 on WUFT. Stream the episode for free the day after broadcast or see it early with a WUCF Passport. WUCF is an Orlando-based company. WUFT is based in Gainesville.
To learn more, go to floridaroadtrip.org
Photos by Bruce Ackerman Ocala Gazette
“Big Daddy” Don Garlits poses inside his Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing and Antique Car Museum south of Ocala on Jan. 23, 2024.
Glass-bottom boats are shown at the dock in the main spring at Silver Springs State Park.
Approximately 30 artists are members of the Rainbow Springs Art in Dunnellon gallery and are part of an art cooperative. They not only sell their work at the gallery, but work and teach there.
Gayle Miller is an acrylic and watercolor artist and one of the founders of the Rainbow Springs Art in Dunnellon gallery.
Sally Saxton is a glass artist and jewelry-maker and longtime member of Rainbow Springs Art in Dunnellon gallery.
Tom Kinney is a wood artist at Rainbow Springs Art in Dunnellon gallery and shows his great blue heron, carved from a cypress log.
Linda Reitz is an acrylic and resin artist at Rainbow Springs Art in Dunnellon gallery and also a popular instructor.
Ruck-or-Treat
Staff report
American Legion Post 27 hosted a Halloween-themed event on Oct. 25 at the Ocala-Marion County Veterans Memorial Park that saw some very colorful characters in a wide variety of costumes.
They ranged from adults Todd Belknap, of Veterans Helping Veterans, dressed as a cow, and Pamela Driggers, with Marion County Fire Rescue, outfitted as Dorothy from the “Wizard of Oz,” to Nathan Romero, 11, as the character from “Scream” and Piper Feinberg-Chambers, 5, as a princess in purple.
The event included a 2.2-mile Ruck Walk, a costume contest, food, raffles and trunk-or-treating for sweets.
Bryson Canaski, 2, and Nolan Beardsley, 6, at bottom, and Roslynn Beardsley, 9, and Kamden Beardsley, 11, at top, show off their costumes.
Photos by Bruce Ackerman / Ocala Gazette
Brothers Myles Claus, 8, and Mikey Claus, 10, get beads and candy from Auriel Dembule of Mission BBQ.
Trunk-or-Treaters arrive as other people take part in the Ruck Walk.
Kaley Barber and Ashley Cook, of Mission BBQ, stock a pirate trunk with candy.
American Legion Post 27 members Earl Allison, Michael Schroeder and Brian Voge.
Piper Feinberg-Chambers, 5, right, gets candy from Joss Usher, 8, and Heather Adkins.
People go through the Trunk-or-Treating zone as they take part in the walk.
Sharon Walker of the Ocala Jeep Club and Veterans Helping Veterans gives out candy to Nathan Romero, 11, as his mother, Misty, looks on.
Gordon Parker leads the way at the start of the Ruck Walk.
Anne Parker, president of Blue Star Mothers of Ocala, wears her Statue of Liberty costume.
Isadora Familia and her son, Kenneth, 7, participated in the Ruck Walk.
What to do with leftover Halloween candy
Staff report
What can be better than spending a day with friends, decked out in costume as you accumulate a mountain of sweet treats? That’s what trick-or-treaters do every Halloween, and sometimes the cache of candy is more than a person can consume in a lifetime.
When October rolls into November and Thanksgiving is on the horizon, few people want to be staring at a witch’s cauldron full of chocolate bars. Rather than be wasteful and throw it away, they can utilize that candy in many different ways.
• S’mores cookie: Turn miniature chocolate bars into a campfire treat with a cookie twist. Press premade cookie dough into a round cast iron skillet and bake until cooked throughout. Add chopped up pieces of chocolate and marshmallows on top and place under the broiler a few minutes, until melted and gooey. Slice up to serve or dig in with spoons.
• Confectionary pizza: Purchase premade pizza dough or make your
Staff report
Hown. Bake the dough on a pan with no toppings. Afterwards, spread a layer of peanut butter or hazelnut spread on top. Then set up a fixings bar with various candies that others can add to their slices. Options include chocolate candies, miniature
pretzels, marshmallows or gummy candies.
• Stained glass cookies: Turn hard candies (like Jolly Ranchers) into works of art. Fill sugar cookie cutouts with hard candies in the middle. When the cookies bake the
candies will melt and then turn soft after cooling.
• Candy-topped brownies: Brownies are delicious on their own, but they’re even better with some embellishments. Mix chopped caramels into the batter or add other candies for flavor and fun.
• Candy bark: Melt down any chocolate you may have and spread it on a baking sheet. Sprinkle chopped up leftover candy on top and allow to cool. Break into pieces for a homemade chocolate bark.
• Gingerbread house: Save the candy in a zip-top bag for freshness and reserve for decorating gingerbread houses around the holidays.
• Birthday pinata: If there is a birthday on the horizon, use the Halloween candy to stuff the pinata.
• Parade route: Veteran’s Day parades are held each November. Start a new tradition in town where donated candy will be tossed out to the crowd by those marching in the parade.
• Donate: Various organizations will gather and ship leftover candy to troops stationed overseas or donate the goods to first responders, veterans and others.
Parents can work together to make Halloween safer
alloween is often just what the doctor ordered. Nestled between the start of a new school year and the arrival of the holiday season, Halloween is an opportunity for children and adults alike to have some fun as they dress up in costumes and indulge in some sweet treats.
Even though Halloween is designed to be an entertaining day, it’s not without its risks. The Child Safety Network says that, on average, two times as many child pedestrians die on Halloween compared to other days. Costume safety and food allergies are some additional hazards to contend with on Halloween. Parents can work together to help reduce the safety risks associated with Halloween.
LIGHT IT UP
Lack of visibility and dim lighting at night increase the risk of pedestrians being struck by cars on Halloween. Improving visibility can go a long way toward cutting down on accidents and related deaths. Homeowners can keep the lights turned on and perhaps illuminate neighborhoods even more by temporarily installing strands of Christmas or bistro style lights. Children can carry battery-powered flashlights, lanterns or even glow sticks to make them more visible. Reflective tape placed on candy bags or somewhere on costumes also can help.
SET UP SAFE TRICK-OR-TREAT ZONES
The popularity of trunk-or-treat events that emerged several years ago took some of the risk out of Halloween by containing trick-or-treating to a parking lot at a school or church. Neighbors can
establish something similar close to home by petitioning the town for permits to close a specific road or roads to vehicular traffic for a block party of sorts. Residents in the area can trick-or-treat and party in the street without risk of injury from cars. Ask participating neighbors to chip in for refreshments and entertainment, if desired.
CHECK CANDY
Generation Xers may recall their parents warned them against eating candy from Halloween before it could be inspected for hazards. Unfounded claims of dangerous items being lodged into candy perpetuated the suspicion of all Halloween confections for some time. There is a risk of eating candy without thought, but that risk is now primarily related to food allergies. The United States Department of Agriculture estimates that each year in the U.S., allergic reactions to food results in 30,000 emergency room visits, 2,000 hospitalizations and 150 deaths. Common allergens include peanuts and other nuts as well as eggs and dairy. Others may be intolerant to ingredients like gluten or soy. Inspecting candy nutrition information can help weed out candy that may cause a reaction for those with food allergies or other concerns.
PREPARE HOMES
Adults and parents can take additional steps to prepare their homes for Halloween. Keep the porch and front yard clear of tripping hazards, such as garden hoses, decorations and toys. Sweep away leaves and branches to prevent tripping or slipping. Restrain pets so they do not jump on trick-or-treaters. Offer a variety of treats for kids of all ages so trick-ortreaters get age-appropriate items.
Stock image
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Special holiday exhibit may be seen Nov. 1-Jan.11
The CF Appleton Museum of Art welcomes the season with Urban Family
Staff report
Twinkling lights, themed trees and timeless holiday charm — that is the “A Dickens Christmas: The Urban Family’s Holiday Exhibition,” which will be on view at the Appleton Museum of Art from Nov. 1–Jan. 11.
Joyce Urban’s love of Christmas began when she was a child in Philadelphia. Every year she would go see the elaborate decorations at department stores along the path she walked to see Santa. This wonder of Christmas has stayed with her through the years. She began publicly displaying her collection in 1989 because she wanted to provide a place for children of all ages to experience what she did as a child. Over the years, her Christmas Tour has raised money for many local charities including Harvest International, Interfaith, Pilot Club, Women’s Pregnancy Center and the Counseling Resource Center where she worked as a counselor. In 2012, she opened Urban Counseling, the news release noted.
The family of Dr. Paul and Joyce Urban is honored to share a portion of their Christmas collection with the Appleton each holiday season. Visitors can enjoy beautifully decorated themed trees, the Dickens Village, an extensive nutcracker collection, handmade Santas from around the world and more. With new arrangements and details each year, the display offers something fresh for returning visitors to discover.
Adorning the first and second-floor galleries are trees decorated by community groups and organizations. This year’s participants include Alta Printing, Appleton Artspace, Art Approach, Arts in Health Ocala Metro, Better Together, Bridge to Hope, CAMPUS USA Credit Union, College Park Elementary, Crazy Foods, East Marion Elementary, El Bell’s Flower Truck, Hands Up Communications with LN Signs and Greater Marion County Association of the Deaf (GMCAD), Hiers-BaxleyHighland Memorial Park, North Central Florida Media Group, The LILAC Foundation and Urban Counseling, according to the release.
Regular admission fees apply to visit. Admission is free on the first Saturday of each month.
The annual Holiday Community Day is set for 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dec. 6, during which admission is free. Visitors can see the Urban exhibit, along with additional holiday displays, special exhibitions and hands-on crafts in the Artspace.
From 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., guests can enjoy Face Painting by Tonya and Sensational Selfies will capture photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Each guest will receive one free printed photo and a texted image.
At 11 a.m. and 1 p.m., the auditorium will feature holiday performances by Devotions Dance Company. Throughout the day, The Donut Express, Poppy’s Dogs and the Brew Hope coffee truck will be on-site with food and beverages for purchase, as well as El Bell’s Flower Truck and the Humane Society of Marion County.
For more information, call (352) 291-4455 or go to appletonmuseum.org
Museum of Art
Saturday, November 8, 1-4:30 p.m.
Nutcrackers are shown on display in the “A Dickens Christmas: The Urban Family’s Holiday Exhibition” at the Appleton Museum of Art in Ocala in 2024. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette file photo]
A veteran-themed tree is shown in the “A Dickens Christmas: The Urban Family’s Holiday Exhibition” at the Appleton Museum of Art. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette file photo]
The Dickens Village in the “A Dickens Christmas: The Urban Family’s Holiday Exhibition” at the Appleton Museum of Art. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette file photo]
Face painting will be free for children from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Dec. 6 during Holiday Community Day. [Photo courtesy College of Central Florida]
TSOCIAL SCENE
FTBOA Hall of Fame Reception
By Susan Smiley-Height susan@magnoliamediaco.com
he guests were a veritable “Who’s who” of the thoroughbred industry at a reception on Oct. 24 when the Florida Thoroughbred Breeders’ and Owners’ Association inducted its newest members into the FTBOA Hall of Fame.
The newest honorees are Arthur I. Appleton, Fred Brei, Gilbert Campbell, Donald Dizney, Jack Dreyfus, John Franks, Joseph LaCroix, Leonard Lavin, J. Michael O’Farrell Jr., Tim Sams, Harold Plumley, Michael Sherman, Peter Vegso, Charlotte Weber and Louis Wolfson.
Several honorees were in attendance, or were represented by family members, such as Linda Potter standing in for her father, the late Arthur Appleton.
The event took place at the FTBOA offices in Ocala and was attended by several of the organization’s board members.
The FTBOA Hall of Fame began in 1968, with a second induction in 2004. The Hall of Fame was created to acknowledge the outstanding industry stakeholders who have been instrumental to the success of Florida thoroughbreds worldwide.
Members of Live Oak Stud and Live Oak Plantation, front, from left, Michelle McCavera, Virginia Moens, Stacy Amerson, Charlotte Weber and Lori Doperalski and back, from left, David Brigham, Frank Gelinas, Nicholas Sammy and Ken Shaw, pose during the Florida Thoroughbred Breeders’ and Owners’ Association Hall of Fame reception in Ocala on Oct. 24, 2025.
FTBOA CEO Lonny Powell, second from left, joins the Hall of Fame inductees or their representatives, Linda Potter, , Charlotte Weber, Donald Dizney, Steve Wolfson Sr., Jim Scott, David O’Farrell and Joe O’Farrell.
Charlotte Weber and Donald Dizney.
Artura Rodriguez and Jim Scott, of Vegso Racing Stable, were in attendance for honoree Peter Vegso.
Tammy Gantt, Vice President — Member Services, Events & Sales of the Florida Thoroughbred Breeders’ and Owners’ Association, left, and Linda Potter, the daughter of Arthur Appleton.
Linda Potter, the daughter of Arthur Appleton, with Charlotte Weber.
Steve Wolfson Sr., Barbara Wolfson and Steve Wolfson Jr., were in attendance for honoree Louis Wolfson.
David O’Farrell, Midge Koontz and Joe O’Farrell, left to right, of Ocala Stud Farm.
Katie Gabel, Chris Gabel, Juan Carlos Gutierrez and Lorena Gutierrez.
Donald Dizney, Irene Dizney, Deidre Brand and Roger Brand, left to right, of Double Diamond Farm.
George Isaacs, general manager of Bridlewood Farm, left, and Virginia Moens of Live Oak Stud and Live Oak Plantation.
Hall of Fame inductee Charlotte Weber, owner of Live Oak Stud and Live Oak Plantation.
People pose for a group photo during the reception.
Photos by Bruce Ackerman Ocala Gazette
Sports Trinity Catholic wins district title
Schofield’s 5 TDs lead Celtics past P.K. Yonge.
By Mark Pinson
Special to the Ocala Gazette
Trinity Catholic
quarterback Carter Schofield tossed four touchdown passes and ran for another score to lead the Celtics to a 49-12 win over P.K. Yonge on Oct. 24. The resounding victory improved Trinity Catholic to 4-4 on the season and earned the Celtics the Class 1A-Distrrict 4 championship.
“It’s very rewarding to win the district championship,” said first-year coach Clint Hart. “We couldn’t have done it without the hard work of the players, coaches and administration. We knew the possibilities of winning our district and we expect nothing less. We all bring something and that’s the beauty of a team. We’re going to enjoy the victory over the weekend and then get back to work on Monday to prepare for a good Newberry team.”
Trinity Catholic came out throwing the football on its opening possession as Schofield found sophomore wide receiver Noah Kaylor open over the middle of the P.K. Yonge defense for a 69-yard touchdown pass. The extra point by junior Andrew Leonard gave the Celtics a 7-0 lead.
P.K. Yonge, which dropped to 0-9 overall, went nowhere against a swarming Trinity Catholic defense and was forced to punt.
The Celtics went 67 yards in just three plays with Schofield connecting with sophomore wide receiver Ah’Millian Jenkins on a 39-yard scoring strike. The point after made it 14-0.
P.K. Yonge’s next possession ended when quarterback Willie Spain’s pass was intercepted by Jenkins, who took it back for a 68-yard touchdown.
The Blue Wave continued to struggle to pick up any sizable yardage against the fired-up Trinity Catholic defense. Spain had another pass intercepted by junior Messiah Bailey who returned it 33 yards for a touchdown. The point after by Leonard gave the Celtics a commanding 28-0 lead with 9:11 still remaining in the first period.
“We knew they were going to throw the ball and I told our guys that the opportunities for interceptions were going to be there,” coach Hart said. “They went out and made the plays.”
P.K. Yonge put together its best drive of the game by marching 80 yards in nine plays with Spain, who completed 4 of 13 passes for 69 yards, finding J.J. Santiago open for a 4-yard touchdown pass. The extra point was no good to leave the Blue Wave trailing 28-6.
Trinity Catholic went back to work as Schofield, who completed 9 of 14 passes for 227 yards, hit Gabe Serrano for a 9-yard scoring pass. After forcing another P.K. Yonge
punt, Trinity Catholic took over at the Blue Wave 26 and found the end zone in one play as Schofield found senior tight end Caiden Buchs open for a 26-yard touchdown pass. The extra point made it 42-6 early in the second quarter.
P.K. Yonge picked up a couple of first downs before punting. The Celtics marched 55 yards in eight plays with Schofield scoring on a 16-yard keeper around right end to give Trinity Catholic a 49-6 lead.
P.K. Yonge managed to score just before halftime on a 1-yard plunge by Santiago to make it 4912. With the large disparity in the score a running clock was used for the remainder of the game. Trinity Catholic substituted freely in the second half allowing its younger players to gain some valuable game experience.
The win clinches a postseason berth for Trinity Catholic. The Celtics play Newberry on Oct. 31 in its last regular-season game and will begin their bid for a state championship the following week.
“We come from different places and different backgrounds, but we have one common goal here and that’s to develop young men and win football games,” coach Hart said. “Newberry is a good football team and that will be a good game for us to play to get ready for the playoffs.”
Trinity Catholic’s Noah Kaylor (14) celebrates his touchdown on P.K. Yonge with Hudson Holland (55) during a football game at Trinity Catholic High School in Ocala on Oct. 24, 2025.
Photos by Bruce Ackerman Ocala Gazette
Trinity Catholic’s Joshua Johnson (42) stops P.K. Yonge’s quarterback Willie Spain (4).
Trinity Catholic head coach Clint Hart.
Trinity Catholic’s Ah’Millian Jenkins (5) takes down P.K. Yonge’s Porter Pedro (9) short of the goal line.
Trinity Catholic quarterback Carter Schofield (0) throws a pass under pressure from P.K. Yonge’s Hobby Hall (66).
Trinity Catholic’s Ah’Millian Jenkins (5) pulls in a touchdown pass.
Trinity Catholic’s Wyatt Lucas (29) pushes past P.K. Yonge defenders on his way to a touchdown.
P.K. Yonge’s Cameron Awuma (12) is stopped by a host of Trinity Catholic defenders.
Trinity Catholic’s Caiden Buchs (18) runs the ball into the end zone for a touchdown.
Trinity Catholic’s Michael Neal (7) tries for a pass in the end zone but couldn’t hold on as he is defended by P.K. Yonge’s JJ Santiago (1).
Trinity Catholic’s Joshua Johnson (42) stops P.K. Yonge’s Daze Richards (14).
Trinity Catholic’s Ah’Millian Jenkins (5) runs the ball for a touchdown.
Government
NOV. 3, 10, 17, 24
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.
NOV. 4 AND 18
Marion County Board of County Commissioners
McPherson Governmental Campus Auditorium, 601 SE 25th Ave., Ocala
9am
The commission meets the first and third Tuesday of the month. Agendas, minutes and video are available at marionfl.legistar.com/ calendar.aspx
Ocala City Council
Ocala City Hall, 110 SE Watula Ave., Ocala
4pm
The council meets each first and third Tuesday of the month. Agendas and minutes are available at ocala.legistar.com/calendar.aspx
Belleview City Commission
Belleview City Hall, 5343 SE Abshier Blvd., Belleview 6pm
Community Arts
OCT. 31
Boo Bash
E.D. Croskey Recreation Center, 1510 NW Fourth St., Ocala
5:30-8pm
The City of Ocala Recreation and Parks Department will host its annual family-friendly Halloween celebration with games, spooky activities, crafts, music and candy. Costumes are encouraged and guests of all ages are welcome. All children must be accompanied by an adult. To learn more, call (352) 368-5517 or go to ocalafl.gov/recpark
NOV. 1
44th Annual Marion County Chili Cook-Off Southeastern Livestock Pavilion, 2232 Jacksonville Road, Ocala
10am-4pm
The event is presented by The Cornerstone School. From professional chefs to hometown chili masters, teams will compete for the coveted title of Chili Grand Champion and you get to taste the results. Enjoy music, a family zone with inflatables and carnival games, and the 10th Annual Car Show. For details, go to marioncountychilicookoff.com
Oak Run Craft Fair
6951 SW 115th St., Ocala
9am-1pm
Featuring handcrafted goods by talented 55+ residents, this event offers a curated shopping experience perfect for holiday gifting. Enjoy food from Lucky’s Kitchen, enter to win raffles and a LOTTO-size 50/50 and take advantage of the golf cart valet service. Visitors will receive a Passport to guide their journey through the fair. Gates will be open for easy access, with full security monitoring. To learn more, email oakrunambassadors@gmail.com
NOV. 5
Free or low-cost mammograms
Mary Sue Rich Community Center, 1821 NW 21st Ave., Ocala
9am-4pm
The Florida Department of Health in Marion County will host the 3D Mobile Mammography bus to provide free or low-cost mammograms to women in the community who qualify with a household income that is less than or equal to 200% of the poverty level. All insurance plans accepted. To see if you qualify for screening, call (352) 629-0137.
Community Road Safety
Meeting
Human and Machine Cognition, 15 SE Osceola Ave., Ocala
5-7pm The city of Ocala Engineering Department, in partnership with the state of Florida, Ocala Marion Transportation Planning Organization and Marion County, will host the meeting. Attendees can learn about identifying and prioritizing safety improvements and a speed management and traffic calming plan. For more information, call (352) 351-6775 or visit ocalafl.gov/engineering.
The commission meets the first and third Tuesday of the month. Agendas, minutes and video available at belleviewfl.org/200/ agendas-minutes
MULTIPLE DATES
MCPS town hall meetings
5:45pm
Marion County Public Schools Interim
Superintendent Dr. Danielle Brewer will host town hall gatherings, which are open to all. Nov. 13 – North Marion Middle School, 2085 W. CR 329, Citra Dec. 18 – Dunnellon Middle School, 21005 Chestnut St., Dunnellon Anyone with questions can call (352) 671-7555.
NOV. 4 AND 25
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
NOV. 12
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
OCT. 30-NOV. 16
“The Crucible”
Ocala Civic Theatre, 4337 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala
The classic play is live on stage for 15 performances: Thursdays and Fridays at 7:30 p.m., Saturdays at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., and Sundays at 2 p.m. The show is rated PG-13. Tickets are $35-$40 for adults and $17-20 for ages 18 and younger, based on seating section, at ocalacivictheatre.com. You also can purchase tickets through the Civic box office in person or over the phone at (352) 236-2274, Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
NOV. 1
Free First Saturday Appleton Museum of Art, 4333 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala 10am
The event includes a musical performance by the seven-piece swing band Swing Theory. There are two showtimes: 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Choose one showtime to accommodate more guests. Seating for each show is limited to 250 guests on a first-come, first-served basis. For the 11 a.m. show, auditorium doors will open at 10:30 a.m. For the 2 p.m. show, auditorium doors will open at 1:30 p.m. Learn more at appletonmuseum.org
Phantasmagoria XVI: Hauntingly Whimsical Tales
Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE 9th St., Ocala 7:30pm Join Phantasmagoria as they celebrate Edward Gorey’s 100th Birthday Year with a hauntingly whimsical journey through his most iconic tales. Featuring storytelling, dance, puppetry, music and more, this Halloween season production brings Gorey’s eerie yet enchanting worlds to life on stage. Learn more at reillyartscenter.com
NOV. 2
CMC Fall Recital
NOV. 6
Dementia Caregiver Conference
CF Klein Conference Center, 3001 SW College Road, Ocala
10am-2pm Join Elder Options for its annual Dementia Caregiver Conference. The free event will feature great presentations, community resources, caregiver networking and lunch. Register at agingresources.org/event/ conference-ocala
Black Stallion Reading Project event
Conway Arabians, 8894 NW Highway 320, Shiloh 5-8pm The Ocala Horse Alliance is hosting the event. Now in its sixth year, the program utilizes the power of the horse to create a love of reading. In partnership with the Marion County Public Schools, the program annually provides over 3,200 fourth graders a copy of The Black Stallion - along with the opportunity to meet a real horse. The program is anchored by a 3.5 week in-classroom curriculum that focuses on reading, language arts, science, and geography and is approved by the Florida Department of Education. Get the details at ocalahorsealliance.com
NOV. 7-8
78th annual Holiday Bazaar Grace Episcopal Church parish hall 503 SE Broadway St., Ocala Nov. 7, 5-7pm Ladies Night, $5 donation, wine and appetizers and early shopping; Nov. 8, 9am-2pm, free entry. The bazaar will offer handmade decor and crafts, gently loved Christmas, vintage jewelry, homemade baked goods, soups, casseroles to-go, tickets for raffle baskets and more. Proceeds support local women and children in need. For details (352) 286-8536
NOV. 8
TEDxOcala CF campus at 3001 SW College Road, Ocala 10am-4pm The 11th annual independently organized TED event’s theme of “Pivot” will explore how shifts in thinking, identity, community and industry can create powerful change, both personal and collective. To learn more, go to tedxocala.com
Family Caregivers Celebration
Ocala downtown square 9-11am Rizing Starz Inc., Elder Options and Quad Nurse, LLC., host the event. The goal is to showcase local caregiver support services, wellness resources and community advocates to foster community support and raise awareness for family caregivers. The event will include coffee and treats by TLC Coffee Enterprise, free mini massages to the first registered caregivers, door prizes and more. Learn more at rizingstarzinc.com
Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE 9th St., Ocala 12:30, 1:30, 2:30, 4pm Cheer on Community Music Conservatory students as they showcase their semester’s skills and talents in recital. This showcase will feature instrumental soloists and group class performances, with ticket proceeds supporting the CMC scholarship and programming fund. Get tickets at reillyartscenter. com
NOV. 7
First Friday Art Walk Downtown Ocala
7:30-9pm
First Friday Art Walk takes place the first Friday of each month, October through May, and features art, culture and live performances. The Sunset Song Series will feature J & The Causeways, with soul/R&B. Learn more at artwalk@ocalafl.gov
NOV. 8-9
Ocali Country Days
Silver River Museum, 1445 NE 58th Ave., Ocala
9am-4 pm
Visitors experience Florida of yesteryear with living history exhibits highlighting life during the 1800s. Pioneer cabins, old-time skills demonstrations, sugar cane syrup making, a blacksmith shop, woodfired pottery kiln, live music vendors, food, crafts and more. This project is supported in part by the Marion Cultural Alliance. Admission $10 per person (children 5 and under free). The museum is inside Silver Springs State Park. To learn more, call (352)
NOV. 10
Educational workshop
Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place, 1821 NW 21st Ave., Ocala
11:30am This event is hosted by the Marion County Hospital District and presented by the Marion County Children’s Alliance and the Community Council Against Substance Abuse. It will include a session about “ Beyond Trauma: Healing ACEs and Unplugging Triggers in a Social Media World.”
Brief spotlight from the Tobacco Free Partnership of Marion County. Free lunch. Register at surveymonkey.com/r/Nov10EduWorkshop
NOV. 12
Navigating Difficult Conversations workshop
Marion County Public Library, 2720 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala
5:30pm Hosted by the Ocala/Marion County Brave Angels Alliance. For details, go to braverangels.org NOV. 13
Horse Farms Forever Conservation Summit
Ocala Breeders’ Sales Arena, 1701 SW 60th Ave., Ocala
5-7pm Temple Grandin, a professor, best-selling author and international speaker, will deliver the keynote address. To learn more, go to horsefarmsforever.com
236-5401 and go to silverrivermuseum.com
NOV. 9
“Veterans Light the Stars”
Ocala/Marion County Veterans’ Memorial Park, 2601 E Fort King St., Ocala
6:30pm
The Kingdom of the Sun Concert Band, under the direction of J. Craig Lilly, will present a tribute to veterans. Bring lawn chairs for this special evening of music and fireworks. Admission is free. For more information, visit kingdomofthesunband.org NOV. 15
Applaud the Arts 2025: Olympus Odyssey
Appleton Museum of Art, 4333 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala
6-9pm
Step into a world of myth and majesty as the Marion Cultural Alliance presents its 18th Annual Applaud the Arts, themed Olympus Odyssey, sponsored by The LILAC Foundation. Guests will embark on a celestial journey through creativity and community. The event will include MCA’s 2025–2026 Grant Recipients and winners of the MCA Art Awards in Service, Vision and Arts Education. Themed attire is encouraged. Get tickets at mcaocala.org
Party in the Park
Tuscawilla Park, 500 NE 9th St. Ocala Noon to 5pm
Presented by Jenkins Auto Group, the free community event will feature a lineup of live music, food trucks, local arts and vendors. Don’t miss Florida’s favorite Allman Brothers Revue, Steeln’ Peaches, and dynamic duo, Harber Wynn, performing live on the Jenkins Outdoor Stage. Learn more at reillyartscenter.com
THROUGH DEC. 12
“Elements in Abstract” exhibition SouthState Bank Second Floor Gallery, 1632 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala Bank hours
Curated by Kayla Moffatt, resident artist at The MAX Ocala, the exhibition brings together 10 Florida artists—photographers, painters, fabric artists and illustrators—each interpreting the elemental forces of earth, water, air and fire through abstraction. To learn more, call (352) 480-0725.
THROUGH JAN. 18
“The Human Pulse: Photographs by John Elliott” Appleton Museum of Art, 4333 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala The exhibit features 42 black-and-white prints from the Ocala-based photographer’s ongoing series, “The Human Pulse,” shaped by his life and travels across 32 countries. Learn more at appletonmuseum.org
THROUGH FEB. 22
“Under the Cover of Knowledge: Betty Ford-Smith’s Pinecone Quilts” Appleton Museum of Art, 4333 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala Ford-Smith’s quilts are striking, contemporary interpretations of the traditional pinecone quilt, a form rooted in African American quilting practices dating back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. To learn more, go to appletonmuseum. org
College of Central Florida Nursing Open House
AdventHealth Center for Nursing, 3001 S.W. College Road, Ocala
3-5pm
Attendees can explore the learning facility with labs, simulation exam rooms and classrooms, and talk with nursing faculty members, students and alumni. Admissions and financial aid representatives will talk with potential students and their families and the $30 admission fee will be waived for those who apply to the college at the event. For registration and details, go to cf.edu/nursingopenhouse
NOV. 15
Hot Cars and Cool Cats
Nasiverra property, 2250 NE 70th St., Ocala
10am-3pm Proceeds benefit the Endangered Animal Rescue Sanctuary in Citra. The event is sponsored by Burnyzz speed shop. Raffle table, 50/50, music, food and vendors. To learn more, call (352) 266-2859.
NOV. 18
PTSD Summit
The Elliott Center, 3231 SW 34th Ave., Ocala
6:30pm
Hosted by Veterans Helping Veterans USA- in conjunction with CADRE VETS. The target audience is veterans (and their spouses/significant others/ family members) who have experienced difficulties/ frustrations with the Veterans Administration. Additional PTSD topics will also be discussed. Non-VA professionals will be on site. Free dinner. RSVP by Nov. 13 to vhsusa.org/ptsd-summit
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.
the address of which is 110 Northwest First Avenue, Ocala, Florida 34475. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. The personal representative has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent’s
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION
IN RE: ESTATE OF: Precley Owens, Jr. Deceased. FILE NO.: 25CP002624AX
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of Precley Owens, Jr., deceased, whose date of death was September 3, 2025, is pending in the Circuit Court for Marion County, Florida, Probate Division, File Number 25CP002624AX, the address of which is Probate Division 110 NW 1st Avenue, Ocala, FL 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. 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. 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 ss. 732.216-732.228 applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by the surviving spouse or a beneficiary as specified under s. 732.2211. 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 October 31, 2025.
Alecia C. Daniel Attorney for Petitioner adh@genesislawpa.com Florida Bar No. 36955 1860 SW Fountainview, Suite 100 Port St Lucie, FL 34986 Telephone: (772) 539-9831
135969
Janet W. Behnke, P.A.
500 NE 8 th Avenue Ocala, FL 34470
Phone: (352) 732-6464
janet@behnkelaw.net
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA. IN RE: THE ESTATE OF FRANK V. FOLLETT, Deceased. CASE NO: 2025-CP-2633 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
THERESA ANNETTE OWENS 3410 Southwest 34th Avenue Circle Ocala, Florida 34474
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION
IN RE: ESTATE OF File No.: 2025-CP002547
JOSEPH W. JORDAN, JR., Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS (Summary Administration)
The administration of the estate of JOSEPH W. JORDAN, JR., deceased, who died on April 16, 2025, File Number 2025-CP-002547, is pending in the Circuit Court for Marion County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 110 NW 1st Ave., Ocala, Florida 34475. The names and addresses of the petitioner and the petitioner’s attorney are set forth below.
All creditors of the estate of the decedent and persons having claims or demands against decedent's estate other than those for whom provision for full payment was made in the Order of Summary Administration must file their claims with this Court WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE. ALL CLAIMS AND DEMANDS NOT SO FILED WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING ANY OTHER APPLICABLE TIME PERIOD, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED
The date of the first publication of this Notice is October 24, 2025.
Attorney for Person Giving Notice: Person Giving Notice: EDWARD W. SOULSBY, B.C.S. MARY L. JORDAN TROTTER & SOULSBY, P.A. Petitioner 11834 C.R. 101, Suite 100 17073 SE 80 th Locustwood Court The Villages, FL 32162 The Villages, Florida 32162 Telephone: (352) 205-7245 E-Mail: ed@trotterlaw.com 2 nd E-Mail: justin@trotterlaw.com
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION CASE NO.: 25CP002638AX
IN RE: ESTATE OF DENNIS J. MANNING, deceased / NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the Estate of DENNIS J. MANNING , deceased, whose date of death was September 27, 2025, is pending in the Circuit Court for Marion County, Florida, Probate Division, Case No. 25CP002638AX , the address of which is 110 NW 1st Ave, Ocala, FL 34475 . The name and address of the personal representative and the personal representative's attorney are set forth below.
All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent's estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE LATER OF THREE (3) MONTHS AFTER TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR THIRTY (30) DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM.
All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent's estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN THREE (3) MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE.
ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE WILL BE FOREVER BARRED.
NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT'S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.
THE FIRST PUBLICATION DATE OF THIS NOTICE IS: October 31, 2025.
Attorney for Personal Representative: Personal Representative:
s/David S. Romanik David S. Romanik FBN: 212199 P.O. Box 993 Ocala, Fl 34478
954-610-4441 davidromanik@mac. com
s/Lynda S. Phaneuf 8400 NW 136th Avenue Road Ocala, Fl 34482
Notice Under Fictitious Name Law
Pursuant to Section 865.09, Florida Statutes
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of Wow Chicken-Pizza located at 4919 SW 41st Pl in the County of Marion, Florida, in the City of Ocala, Florida 34474 intends to register the said name with the Division of Corporations of the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.
Dated at Ocala, Florida this 23rd day of October, 2025.
RACI SERVICE INTL LLC - Owner
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTH
JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA Case Number: 2024-CA-2052 Judge: Lisa Herndon IN RE: FORFEITURE OF: DIGITAL CURRENCIES CONTAINED WITHIN COINBASE AND OKX EXCHANGE ACCOUNTS BELONGING TO THOMAS GRIFFIN AND CHEN SIBIN TO WIT: 0.00430229 BITCOIN (BTC), 0.40919439 ETHEREUM (ETH), 2,787.270172
TETHERUS (USDT), 0.1315 BITCOIN (BTC). NOTICE OF ACTION TO: Chen Sibin Last known Address: 2335920799@ qq.com. China. YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that a forfeiture action has been filed against the above described cryptocurrency by the Ocala Police Department. You are required to file an answer and any written defenses with the Clerk of the Court and to serve a copy of the answer and defenses on or before the 31st day of October, 2025, on Kristi Van Vleet, Assistant City Attorney, Ocala Police Department, 110 S.E. Watula Ave, Ocala, FL 34471. Failure to file your answer and defenses will result in a default being entered against you. WITNESSED by hand and the Seal of the Court on this 16th day of September The Honorable Gregory C. Harrell Clerk of Court.
DIVISION File No. 2025-CP-2577 IN RE: ESTATE OF TRINA ELLEN CHASTAIN Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of TRINA ELLEN CHASTAIN, deceased, whose date of death was August 2, 2025, is pending in the Circuit Court for MARION County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 110 N.W. 1st Avenue, #1, 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.
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 October 24, 2025.
Personal Representative: CHARLES D. CHASTAIN, JR.
Attorney for Personal Representative: SHANTA MATTHEWS, Attorney Florida Bar Number: 69935
814 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Suite D OCALA, FL 34470
Telephone: (352) 421-8722
Fax: (352) 306-3759
E-Mail: shanta@smatthewslaw.com
Secondary: lori@smatthewslaw.com
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA IN RE: FORFEITURE OF: One (1) 2021 Nissan Kicks VIN: 3N1CP5CV0ML496183 Case Number: 2025-CA-1493 Judge: Rogers
NOTICE OF ACTION TO: Kenneth Meade Cross Last known Address: 4900 SW 26th Ct Apt 1901, Ocala, FL 34471 YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that a forfeiture action has been filed against the above described cryptocurrency by the Ocala Police Department. You are required to file an answer and any written defenses with the Clerk of the Court and to serve a copy of the answer and defenses on or before the 17th day of October, 2024, on Kristi Van Vleet, Assistant City Attorney, Ocala Police Department, 110 S.E. Watula Ave, Ocala, FL 34471. Failure to file your answer and defenses will result in a default being entered against you. WITNESSED by hand and the Seal of the Court on this 2nd day of October, 2025. The Honorable Gregory C. Harrell Clerk of Court
Filing # 233556631 E-Filed 10/14/2025 08:32:55 AM IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA PROVANTAGE GROUP, LLC, Plaintiff, VS. CASE NO.: 25-CA-283 ALGENARD SIMMONS, individually, THE STATE OF FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE, and THE FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONAL REGULATIONDIVISION OF ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES AND TOBACCO, Defendants. NOTICE OF ACTION TO: ALGENARD SIMMONS YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action has been filed against you to foreclose plaintiff's security interest and its lien recorded with The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation, Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco, on a spirituous alcoholic beverage license, being license #BEV 52-03627, and you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to the action on The Tiller Law Group, P.A., the plaintiff's attorney, whose address is 633 North Franklin Street, Suite 625, Tampa, FL 33602, on or before thirty (30) days following the date of first publication hereof,
NOTICE OF MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS MARION COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD LEASING CORPORATION
Notice is hereby given that the Board of Directors of the Marion County School Board Leasing Corporation will immediately follow a special School Board organizational meeting scheduled for November 11, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. at the Administration Office, 1614 E. Ft. King Street, Ocala, Florida 34471. The purpose of this special meeting is organization of the Board of Directors.
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.
NOTICE OF SCHOOL BOARD MEETING
Notice is hereby given that the School Board of Marion County, Florida, will meet on November 11, 2025, at 5:30 p.m., at the School Board Administration Office, 1614 E. Ft. King Street, Ocala, Florida, 34471. An agenda will be published seven days prior to the meeting. The agenda may be obtained at the Administration Office between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. The agenda is also available from a link on the District’s website: www. marion.k12.fl.us.
NOTICE OF SPECIAL SCHOOL BOARD MEETING
Notice
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.
Brick City Cat Hospital marks 25 years of feline care
An open house celebration is set for Nov. 1 in Ocala and all are welcome.
By Dani Eskridge dani@magnoliamediaco.com
This year marks a special milestone for Brick City Cat Hospital, Marion County’s first and only feline-exclusive veterinary practice.
Founded in April 2000 by Dr. Jennifer Salpeter, the hospital is celebrating 25 years of dedicated feline care with an open house event on Saturday, Nov. 1, from 2 to 4:30 p.m. at 702 S. Magnolia Ave., Ocala. Guests are invited to enjoy hospital tours, minisessions and doctor talks during the celebration.
Brick City Cat Hospital was built on a simple idea — that cats deserve veterinary care designed entirely for their unique needs. At the time, it was and still is the only felineonly facility in Marion County and over the years it has become a trusted resource for cat owners throughout Ocala and Central Florida.
“We wanted to create a place where cats could receive the highest standard of care in a calm, low-stress environment,” said Salpeter, who continues to lead the practice. “Our goal has always been to support each cat from kittenhood through their senior years — truly a lifetime of care.”
Today, the fullservice hospital provides comprehensive medical, surgical and
[Submitted photo]
dental services tailored specifically to cats. The team’s approach emphasizes preventive care, early detection of disease, and compassionate treatment — all in a feline-friendly atmosphere.
Brick City Cat Hospital is certified as a Gold Level Cat Friendly Practice by the American Association of Feline Practitioner for its commitment to reducing stress in feline patients and improving their overall well-being. Their skilled staff focus on areas including internal medicine, dermatology, dentistry, cardiology and client education.
Beyond the clinic, Salpeter also contributes
to the broader veterinary community as a founding board member of PETS (Pet Emergency Treatment Service), a local partnership of veterinarians that helped establish an afterhours emergency clinic in collaboration with the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine.
As Brick City Cat Hospital looks ahead to the next 25 years, its mission remains unchanged: to provide modern, compassionate and highquality veterinary care for cats in a setting designed exclusively for them.
For more information go to brickcitycat.com
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