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Happy $3 New Year! VOLUME 7 ISSUE 1

December 26 - January 1, 2026

Brewer will become district superintendent

School district leaders weigh $10,000 CEP membership

School Board abandons national search after reviewing progress monitoring data. By Jennifer Hunt Murty jennifer@ocalagazette.com

Danielle Brewer, interim superintendent, speaks during a Marion County School Board meeting in Ocala on May 13, 2025. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette file photo]

iting a surge in student achievement and a desire to maintain “steady waters,” the Marion County School Board on Dec. 18 unanimously decided to abandon its national search

for a new leader, instead moving to solidify interim superintendent Danielle Brewer, Ph.D., as the district’s superintendent. The board’s decision came after reviewing Progress Monitoring 2 (PM2) data, which showed substantial gains in student performance since Brewer took the

interim role in mid-2025. According to district data, 41% of students are currently on grade level in English Language Arts (ELA), up from 37% last year, and math proficiency has risen to 27%, a four-point increase over the same period. See Brewer, page A9

Community champion dies at 85 in Ocala Among her many accomplishments, Mary Sue Rich served as a city councilwoman for 24 years.

By Susan Smiley-Height magnoliamediaco.com

atriarch, trailblazer, teacher, community advocate, public servant, lover of people — all of these are descriptive of Mary Sue Rich. Rich, who passed away in Ocala on Dec. 18 at the age of 85, surrounded by her loving family, led a life filled with accomplishments, including being elected in 1995 as the first Black woman on the Ocala City Council. She represented District 2, which encompasses the city’s west side. Following 24 years of distinguished service, she left the seat in 2019 after she chose not to seek re-election. Rich was born in Ocala and was adopted as an infant. She was married to Franklin R. Rich for 52 years, until he passed away in 2011. The couple had four children, nine grandchildren and seven greatgrandchildren. “When I was growing up, State Road 40 was an unpaved road,” she recalled in an article about her in the “Gazette’s” sister publication, “Ocala Style” magazine. “The city was also segregated and a lot of people believed in that. I’ve seen a lot of growth, most of it for the betterment of Ocala. I’ve really enjoyed being on the council and have met a lot of wonderful people,” she said, emphasizing that serving is about many people working together rather than anything she accomplished as an individual. See Mary Sue Rich, page A7

Matt McCormick [Photo courtesy CEP]

By Jennifer Hunt Murty jennifer@ocalagazette

Mary Sue Rich was a civic leader and dedicated public servant in Ocala for many years. [John Jernigan/Ocala Style file photo]

he Ocala Metro Chamber & Economic Partnership’s new leader made his formal debut before the Marion County School Board on Dec. 18, sparking a candid discussion about the $10,000 annual price tag for the school district’s membership. Matt McCormick, president and chief executive officer, was finishing his fourth week directing the CEP when he presented a “top hits” list of the organization’s involvement with the district, ranging from voter engagement for the successful half-penny sales tax referendum in November 2024 to Career and Technical Education (CTE) partnerships. McCormick, who moved to Ocala from Missouri, emphasized that his career in economic development has taught him a simple truth: “The community with the best schools wins.” The presentation explored the value and source of the membership dues. School Board member Allison Campbell revealed she had inadvertently received the CEP’s invoice for the last two years, which prompted a deeper look into the partnership during a year when the district faced a $64 million shortfall. See CEP membership, page A5

Novel plan faces challenges The aim is to build affordable housing for Marion County school employees.

By Jennifer Hunt Murty jennifer@ocalagazette.com

pward Communities CEO Jason Roberts returned to the Marion County School Board on Dec. 18 to provide a “long overdue” update on a project

to build affordable housing for local educators, citing a “weird time” in the state legislature as a primary hurdle. Upward Communities is a Texas-based company created to retain and support essential educators by providing affordable housing near their schools. The

company planned to launch its first Florida community in Marion County. Following an August update in which Roberts promised to “double our resources” to make the housing community a reality, the CEO informed the board that while property has been selected,

legal complexities regarding tax exemptions have slowed progress. Roberts explained that the project’s affordability hinges on the land being treated as taxexempt school district property, but current county interpretation does not explicitly cover housing. Roberts noted the timing is

particularly complicated due to ongoing legislative debates in Tallahassee regarding Florida’s tax structure. “There’s a lot of other stuff going on. This is a really weird time,” Roberts said to the board. See Novel plan, page A6

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Paramedicine program................ A5 Citizen participation.................... A6 Heart of the Park.......................... B1 Habitat house blessings............... B3 Calendar......................................... B6

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December 26 - January 1, 2026 | OCALA GAZETTE

BUSINESS NEWS By Susan Smiley-Height susan@maganoliamediaco.com

CF EARNS TOP RANKINGS FOR TEACHER EDUCATION

Gavin Alexander Riley-Morales, CF Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education graduate. [Photo courtesy College of Central Florida]

he College of Central Florida’s Teacher Education program recently was recognized as the No. 1 most valuable education degree program in Florida, landing the No. 4 spot in the country as ranked by Research.com.

CF’s Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education, designed to train teachers who wish to teach children age 3 through grade three, was recognized for its return-oninvestment ratio and was noted for having a significant majority of students — more than 80% — who receive financial aid. According to Research.com, the ranking is built by selecting the best institutions in a location that “guarantee a good educational experience with the lowest cost possible.” CF’s tuition is about half the cost of a university and 3/4 of graduates leave the college with no student loan debt, according to the news release. “Our goal at College of Central Florida is to offer a high-quality education with affordable tuition,” said Jennifer Fryns, CF vice president of Workforce Development and Innovation, in the release. “By training students in the high-demand field of teacher education, we are helping to meet Florida’s critical shortage of educators while giving graduates a competitive degree and the skills to enter this high-reward profession. Our strong partnerships with the school districts in Marion, Citrus and Levy counties support our 100% job placement rate and help keep our graduates local. Innovative aspects of CF’s Teacher Education program, such as the use of simulation software to prepare students for the realities of today’s classroom instruction and the Temporary Teacher internship program, provide our students with the tools they need to have a positive early career experience.” To learn more, visit cf.edu/education

SECO TRUSTEE EARNS ACCREDITATION

ECO Energy has announced that Trustee Marty Proctor, who represents members in District 8, has earned the Director Gold Credential (DGC) from the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA). The credential represents the highest level of educational achievement available to electric cooperative trustees. “I am extremely pleased to announce that trustee Proctor has achieved the highest level of Trustee education from the NRECA – Gold Status. This is a significant accomplishment as he completed this advanced education within two years being elected to represent SECO Energy’s District 8 members,” stated SECO Energy’s Board of Trustees President and District 3 Trustee Gerald Anderson in the news release. “In this short time, trustee Proctor has become a knowledgeable and active participant in board governance, representing not only his district but all SECO members.” “I would be remiss if I did not recognize that all nine SECO Energy Board of Trustees have earned the Gold-level education certificates,” Anderson added. “Nationwide, SECO Energy is one of only 14 out of more than 780 electric cooperatives to achieve the distinction of 100% Gold-level Board education.” The Director Gold Credential is awarded to trustees who complete a rigorous series of advanced courses Public Notice

Filing # 237731087 E-Filed 12/15/2025 12:24:53 PM IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 5TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, I N AND FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA MORTGAGE X, LLC, GENEVA CAPITAL GROUP, LLC, A Florida Limited Liability Company, MICHAEL S. STEINER, Trustee of the DAVID STEINER IRREVOCABLE TRUST, Plaintiffs, VS. ELISE CELAMY; ET. AL., Defendant. CASE NO.: 25CA000014AX NOTICE OF SALE UNDER F.S CHAPTER 45.031 NOTICE IS GIVEN that, in accordance with the Order Resetting Foreclosure Sale entered on November 6, 2025 in the above-styled cause, I will sell to the highest and best bidder for cash at www. marion.realforeclose.com on January 6, 2026 at 11:00AM, the following described property: LOT 8, BLOCK C, OF RAVEN GLEN UNIT NO. 1, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF, RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 7, PAGE 1, OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA A/K/A 2724 N.E 26TH STREET, OCALA, FLORIDA 33470 Any person or entity claiming an interest in the surplus, if any, resulting from the foreclosure sale, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens, must file a claim on same with the Clerk of Courts within 60 days after the foreclosure sale. Respectfully submitted, MOSHE RUBINSTEIN LAW FIRM, P.A. By: /s/ MOSHE RUBINSTEIN Moshe Rubinstein, Esq. Attorney for Plaintiff Florida Bar Number: 96704 6100 Hollywood Blvd. Ste 305 Hollywood 33024 moshe@moshelaw.com 954-987-0040 CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE I HEREBY CERTIFY that a true and correct copy of the foregoing has been furnished by United States Mail and/or email, as required, this 15th day of December 2025 to those persons on the attached service list: ELISECELAMY@GMAIL.COM Respectfully submitted, MOSHE RUBINSTEIN LAW FIRM, P.A. By: /s/ MOSHE RUBINSTEIN Moshe Rubinstein, Esq. Attorney for Plaintiff Florida Bar Number: 96704 6100 Hollywood Blvd. Ste 305 Hollywood 33024 moshe@moshelaw.com 954-987-0040

- U.S. Supreme Court Justice Hugo Black in New York Times Co. v. United States (1971)

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SECO Energy’s Chief Executive Officer Curtis Wynn, District 8 Trustee Martin Proctor and Board of Trustees President Gerald Anderson. [Submitted photo]

focused on cooperative governance, financial oversight, strategic planning and emerging challenges within the energy industry. After earning the credential, trustees must continue participating in ongoing education to maintain Director Gold status.

OPINION LETTER TO THE EDITOR McClain’s obsession with Fernandina Beach

“The press was to serve the governed, not the governors.”

live on Amelia Island, a tiny barrier island just at the Florida/ Georgia border, the next to last exit on I-95. Maybe some of you have heard of us or even visited our village. We are only 2 miles wide by 14 miles long, and our island keeps the mainland from f looding during a hurricane. We have an awful lot in common with Ocala, for example, we have a strong tourism business and great natural resources. We also share the desire for people to keep their noses out of our business. I would presume the people of Ocala feel the same. So why is your State Senator McClain, who has represented Ocala for years, so interested in the ability of Fernandina Beach to regulate its own business?? Fernandina has been fighting Rayonier Advanced Materials, known as RYAM, a chemical manufacturing business that wants to produce a highly f lammable material called bioethanol on our barrier island, an island in a hurricane zone. Our island and surrounding areas carry a population of about 60k, of which 99% of residents oppose building the proposed facility. Multiple lawsuits have been filed and are currently working their way through the judicial system.

McClain introduced SB 1118 this past legislative session, trying to push through a change in the definition of “chemical manufacturing,” a move that would drastically impact the citizens of Fernandina Beach, who have the right to self-government without the interference of elected officials who do not live here nor should be introducing legislation that would help build a facility that, in essence, would be making jet fuel on a barrier island in a hurricane zone. I have been unable to locate an instance of an elected official from Fernandina Beach trying to tell Ocala how to run its business. So why has Sen McClain been proactive in trying to change the definition of “chemical manufacturing” in the State of Florida? How did this bill benefit the citizens of Ocala? How would the citizens of Ocala feel if RYAM decided to build said plant in their backyard? I wish the people of Ocala a very happy holiday season and here’s to hoping Senator McClain stays in his lane and works on things such as keeping your beautiful state park a state park. We promise not to interfere. Kim Wolford, Fernandina Beach, FL

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December 26 - January 1, 2026 | OcaLa GaZeTTe

COMMUNITY NEWS By Susan Smiley-Height susan@maganoliamediaco.com

GOLF CART PARADE FUNDRAISER

Surviving I-75: A local’s guide to truck safety and accident protocols in Ocala

Fostering Foundation board member Tim Bascom and Executive Director Amy Hill accept the donation from Jessica Fieldhouse, executive director of Ocala Main Street. [Submitted photo]

cala Main Street hosted its seventh annual Golf Cart Christmas Parade on Dec. 6 with more than 100 entries. “We begin with a tailgate at City Hall where judging takes place. We had some dayof registrations, so we were over 100 carts in the parade. The route goes through the Downtown Business District and the Historic Residential District. And every dollar raised stays right here to support and empower local children and families in the foster care system,” noted Jessica Fieldhouse, executive director of Ocala Main Street. The judges were Ocala Mayor Ben Marciano, City Councilwoman Kristen

Dreyer and Mike Bascom. Winners of prizes donated by JB Golf Carts were: • Most Festive Cart: Geotech (Craig & Danielle Hampy) • Best Dressed: Garcia Family (Grinch theme) • Best Group (two or more carts): Lopez & Hill Family, Gingerbread theme Fieldhouse later presented a donation of $11,046.33 to representatives from the nonprofit Fostering Foundation. To learn more, go to ocalamainstreet.org and thefosteringfoundation.org

COMMISSION APPROVES VETERANS HALL OF FAME

he Marion County Board of County Commissioners recently approved the creation of a Marion County Veterans Hall of Fame presented by Veterans Helping Veterans USA. The new program is designed to recognize and honor local veterans for their service, leadership and contributions to the community. The Hall of Fame was developed through input from the Marion County’s veteran’s community, following discussions and ideas shared during quarterly meetings. The meetings were launched by Marion County Commissioner Craig Curry, who was authorized by the county commission to serve as the liaison. Veterans Helping Veterans USA is a nonprofit dedicated to supporting veterans and their families through a variety of programs and initiatives. The organization focuses on providing resources for housing,

employment, education and healthcare, while also fostering community engagement and recognition of veterans’ service and achievements. The program will celebrate the outstanding achievements of Marion County veterans and will create a meaningful pipeline of nominees for the Florida Veterans Hall of Fame, after which the local program will be modeled. “This is a step in the right direction to help honor those in our community who have served. Our service put our lives at risk to protect people we never knew,” said Ocala’s Capt. Steve Petty (Ret.), who was recently inducted into the Florida Veterans Hall of Fame, in the release. The nomination criteria and more details can be found at marionfl.org/ vetshalloﬀame.

TEACHER THANKED

foundation.” CA Florida Ocala Hospital and HCA Asher teaches first Florida West Marion grade at Dr. N.H. Jones Hospital, with the Public Elementary School. Education Foundation of Her nomination, which Marion County (PEFMC), was submitted by a recently presented Lisa parent, noted, “Thank Asher of Dr. N.H Jones you for your patience Elementary School in and dedication you Ocala a “Thank a Teacher” put forward every day award. with my son and his “We really enjoy these classmates.” opportunities to celebrate Winning educators are outstanding teachers like nominated by students, Lisa Asher [Submitted photo] Lisa,” said HCA Florida families or staff members West Marion Hospital of Marion County Public CEO Isaiah Zirkle in the press release. “A Schools who call attention to the teachers’ great education begins with teachers who devotion to education and the overall positive are dedicated to the students’ success in impact they have on their students and school the classroom and in life, and the purpose communities. of the ‘Thank a Teacher’ program is to commend those teachers, such as Lisa, To learn more, go to pefmc.org/thank-awho provide students with that strong teacher

VENDORS SOUGHT FOR FESTIVAL

he city of Ocala’s Cultural Arts Division, in partnership with the Marion County Public Library System, will host the first Art Park Literary and Poetry Festival on April 11 at the Tuscawilla Art Park at 213 NE Fifth St., Ocala. The free event is part of the Tuscawilla Art Park Series. The city is accepting vendor applications for literary vendors including independent publishers, small presses, bookstores, magazines, newspapers, authors, zine creators and comic creators; calligraphers, printmakers, illustrators

and bookmakers; and food trucks, nonprofit groups and arts organizations. Applications are available at ocalafl. gov/poetryfest and may be submitted by email to artinfo@ocalafl.gov or mailed to City of Ocala Cultural Arts, 201 SE Third St., Second Floor, Ocala, FL 34471. Ocala Cultural Arts will open a call for poets in January and selected poems will appear in the first edition of the Art Park Literary and Poetry Book. For more information, call (352) 6298447 or email artinfo@ocalafl.gov

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nterstate 75 cuts through Marion County as one of Florida’s busiest freight corridors, with convoys of semi-trucks passing Ocala every hour. Recent pileups and fatal crashes along local stretches of I-75 show how quickly an ordinary drive can turn dangerous. This guide pinpoints the most crashprone segments near Ocala, safer habits for sharing lanes with big rigs and practical steps to follow if your family is caught in a truck collision on I-75.

WHERE I-75 TURNS DANGEROUS IN MARION COUNTY

For most local drivers, the highway feels routine until traffic suddenly grinds to a halt near an interchange. Crash summaries and safety dashboards from the Ocala/Marion County Transportation Planning Organization (ocalamariontpo.org/wp-content/ uploads/2025/08/2025-Safety-Report. pdf ) highlight clusters of collisions around busy access points such as: • State Road 200 • State Road 40 • County Road 484 • State Road 326 In these areas, local traffic merges with long-haul trucks at high speeds, creating more opportunities for serious crashes. Engineers, planners and legal professionals review five-year crash snapshots, heat maps and performance targets to understand why certain ramps and lanes see more wrecks than others. For families in Ocala, the takeaway is simple: expect sudden slowdowns near major exits, leave space to change lanes early and avoid weaving in and out of gaps when you see trucks bunched together ahead.

HIGHWAY CRASH PROTOCOL: WHAT OCALA FAMILIES SHOULD DO AFTER A TRUCK COLLISION

Even a minor impact with a semi can feel overwhelming, especially when traffic is still rushing by on I-75. The first priority is safety: if vehicles can move, pull as far onto the shoulder as possible, turn on hazard lights and keep children and passengers behind guardrails or away from the travel lanes. Call 911 and follow instructions from Florida Highway Patrol or local first responders as they secure the scene and direct traffic.

FROM THE SHOULDER TO THE DOCTOR’S OFFICE

Once immediate danger is controlled, try to document what happened without putting anyone back in harm’s way. Whenever it is safe to do so, you can: • Take photos of vehicle damage, skid marks, debris, weather conditions and the positions of all vehicles. • Exchange information with the truck driver, including company name and any visible USDOT or unit numbers. • Ask witnesses for contact details in case investigators need follow-up statements.

After leaving the scene, prompt medical evaluation is essential, even if you feel only “sore.” Whiplash, concussions and internal injuries may not appear right away and early documentation in your medical record can make a big difference if symptoms worsen over the next few days. Keep copies of discharge papers, imaging reports and any instructions your providers give you. Commercial vehicle accidents involve complex federal regulations that differ significantly from standard car crashes. Because I-75 is a major corridor connecting the state, victims often require specialized legal representation familiar with these logistics. For complex litigation, many residents turn to established firms in the region, such as the Orlando truck accident attorneys at Louis Berk Law (louisberklaw. com/practice-areas/truck-accidents), who represent victims of heavy transport collisions throughout Central Florida.

SHARING THE ROAD SAFELY WITH SEMI-TRUCKS ON I-75

The best outcome is avoiding a crash altogether. Large trucks have wide blind spots along both sides, directly in front of the cab and behind the trailer. If you cannot see the driver in the truck’s mirrors, they may not be able to see you. When passing, do so steadily on the left, avoid lingering alongside the trailer and do not cut back in until you can see the truck’s grille in your rear-view mirror. To reduce risk on busy or difficult stretches of I-75 near Ocala, drivers can: • Increase following distance behind semis, especially in rain or heavy traffic. • Avoid hard braking directly in front of a loaded truck. • Watch for turn signals and give trucks extra room to complete wide turns. • Maintain a steady speed instead of constantly speeding up and slowing down around big rigs. On rainy afternoons, in construction zones, or when traffic backs up near Ocala’s busiest exits, give semis even more room. Sudden braking in front of a loaded rig can lead to rear-end collisions or jackknifes. This is why safety initiatives, such as FMCSA’s Our Roads, Our Safety® program (fmcsa.dot.gov/ ourroads/our-roads-our-safety-program), are vital resources that Orlando truck accident attorneys frequently recommend to families navigating these high-risk corridors. Small habits (checking mirrors more often, signaling earlier and committing to one lane instead of weaving) help everyone on I-75 get home safely, whether they are behind the wheel of a minivan or a tractortrailer.

OCALA’S ROLE IN MAKING I-75 SAFER

I-75 will remain a vital freight route for Marion County, but the choices local drivers make every day can lower the risk of serious crashes. By recognizing high-risk stretches, practicing safer habits around trucks and following a clear protocol after a collision, Ocala families support the broader goal of countywide safety initiatives and help keep this busy corridor safer for everyone.

December 26 - January 1, 2026 | OcaLa GaZeTTe

A new home for Christmas

A once-homeless veteran is among the first to reside in Mercy Village duplex apartments. By Andy Fillmore andy@ocalagazette.com

ome for the holidays has a very special meaning for Vietnam War veteran Mark Davis this Christmas season. On Wednesday, Dec. 17, Davis, 74, was among the first group of residents to move into one of 20 apartments in 10 recently completed duplexes in Mercy Village, a housing complex that includes a 59-unit apartment building still under construction. Mercy Village is on a nine-plus acre parcel located at 3601 W. Silver Springs Blvd. and is operated by Saving Mercy, a faith based nonprofit outreach operating low income and permanent supportive housing. “It hasn’t quite sunk in yet,” said Davis as he glanced around the 400-square-foot duplex half, complete with a furnished living room, bedroom and kitchen outfitted with appliances. “They went above and beyond,” Davis said of the effort by several veterans’ organizations to provide everything needed to immediately set up housekeeping. Davis served in the U.S. Air Force from 1970 to 1974 and some of his duties in the war were connected to returning the remains of service members on C-130 aircraft. The move into his new residence was accompanied by a brief posting of colors ceremony by the Marion County Memorial Honor Guard and well-wishes from officials including Ocala City Councilman Jim Hilty Sr. and members of Veterans Helping Veterans USA of Marion County, Saving Mercy Executive Director Penny Beehler welcomed Davis. “We’re super happy and super blessed and ask for prayers,” Beehler

Mark Davis, 75, a homeless U.S. Air Force veteran who did two tours of duty in Vietnam, right, is welcomed to his new home by Penny Beehler, executive director of Saving Mercy, left, as the Marion County Memorial Honor Guard posts the colors in front of his new home at Saving Mercy on West Silver Springs Boulevard in Ocala on Dec. 17, 2025.

Mark Davis receives challenge coins from members of the Marion County Memorial Honor Guard, Don Kennedy, Stephen Petty and Bill Fix.

Mark Davis becomes emotional.

Mark Davis receives challenge coins from members of the Marion County Memorial Honor Guard, Don Kennedy, Stephen Petty and Bill Fix.

said. She said as an “Army mom” she appreciated Davis’ service. Davis had been most recently living in an RV that he described as “falling apart.” The journey to permanent and supportive housing for Davis, who has been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder, has included being homeless for a time. Davis, from Waterbury, Connecticut, owned a painting company for 28 years and went to culinary school at night to become a chef. He worked as an executive sous chef for a hotel chain in Connecticut. About seven years ago, he traveled from Connecticut to Key West to care for his brother. He became homeless for a period of time while in Key West. A contact with the Saving Mercy project invited him here and he moved to Ocala about four years ago. Charles Calhoun, president of the Marion County Veterans Council and a member of other veterans’ organizations, including the Marion County Memorial Honor Guard, spearheaded gathering and purchasing the decor, needs for daily living and small appliances for Davis’ apartment. The decor even included a small Christmas tree. Calhoun said he and his wife Fran and VHV Deputy Director Myles McConico installed the items and decorated the duplex. He said VHV paid for some items and that many were donated. He said groups involved included the On Top of the World Veterans Club, Marion County Veterans Council, Veterans Resource Center, Vet Net and American Legion Post 354. The 10 Mercy Village duplexes were funded by a grant through Marion County Community Services and the 59-unit apartment complex, still under construction, is backed by nonprofit Carrfour Supportive Services of Miami, according to prior news reports. Saving Mercy provides “compassionate support, dignity, and a home for those most in need,” according to its website. The outreach was started by Blessed Trinity Catholic Church but is now an independent 501(c)3 charitable organization

supported by grants and private donors. Residents have a lease and pay rent based on income and case managers will link them to employment and skill building agencies while therapists will provide addiction and behavioral health, according to Beehler. Saving Mercy case managers Heather Berry and Courtenay Salem were on hand Wednesday to assist residents moving into the duplexes. Another incoming resident, a retired woman who lived in her car for the past two years, was getting settled into a duplex apartment. The decorations and needs for daily living were sponsored by Interfaith Emergency Services. Karla Greenway, CEO of IES, said the new housing is “huge” for IES clients. “Some have been maintaining employment, which isn’t easy when you live in a tent,” Greenway stated in a text. IES furnished and decorated three units but “the tenants are responsible for the rent,” she added. The woman moving in, a former baker with a large grocery store chain, said she was “very happy, very excited” about her new residence. “This is a gift from God for Christmas,” she woman Meanwhile, for Davis, the new residence and support from local fellow veterans clearly meant a lot. VHV has promised support including assistance from their pantry. Bill Fix with the honor guard gave Davis a challenge coin and Davis chatted with fellow Air Force veteran Dan Maffeo. Calhoun gave Davis a “Welcome” Home keepsake provided by Ocala Blue Star Mothers, which represents welcoming the veteran home from the Vietnam War. Davis clearly became emotional. “You are part of our veteran community,” Calhoun said. To learn more, go to savingmercy.org or call (352) 629-6902. Photos by Bruce Ackerman Ocala Gazette

December 26 - January 1, 2026 | OCALA GAZETTE

Paramedicine program renewed The goal is to boost preventive healthcare and reduce emergency burdens. By Jamie Berube jamie@ocalagazette.com

he Ocala City Council has renewed a program that delivers proactive healthcare to vulnerable residents, aiming to decrease unnecessary emergency calls and hospital visits. The program, sponsored by AdventHealth and facilitated through grants from the Community Foundation for Ocala/Marion County, focuses on in-home support for individuals with chronic diseases, cognitive decline or substance use disorders. The council on Dec. 16 approved the fourth amendment to the Community Paramedicine Program Agreement with AdventHealth Ocala, extending the initiative begun in 2021 through August 2026. EMS Capt. Jesse Blaire of Ocala Fire Rescue said the program serves between 200 and 400 patients a year who require services in one of three categories: chronic disease management, cognitive decline or substance use disorder. “We receive referrals from law enforcement, all our hospitals, physicians’ offices, our 911 crews and many other community resources like the Salvation Army and Interfaith Emergency Services. So far, in 2025, we have responded to patients over 800 times,” Blaire stated. “We know we have reduced the number of calls we respond to because we are providing proactive medical care to high system utilizers. We also know our CORE (Coordinated Opioid Recovery) Program has decreased the number of drug overdoses and deaths substantially, with the help of other community organizations and programs,” he continued. Blaire explained that the program shares a common software system called JULOTA with Marion County’s program. “It is a system designed to track patients and activities in a linear fashion, like a hospital’s reporting system. JULOTA allows a paramedic to see the whole picture at every visit, showing any progress the patient has made as well as any barriers to care the team is working through,” he said. “In addition to the common software, both teams have a

Capt. Chris Hickman checks on the inventory of medications in the Ocala Fire Rescue/AdventHealth Community Paramedicine unit at Ocala Fire Rescue Headquarters on Northwest Martin Luther King Avenue in Ocala on Sept. 15, 2021. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette file photo]

monthly interdisciplinary team meeting that brings together our medical director, representatives from both hospital systems, case workers, social workers and the leadership from both teams. As long as the patient signs the ROI form, we discuss best practices and problem solve together,” Blaire added. The CORE program creates a comprehensive network of addiction care and opioid treatment, coordinating efforts among the Florida Department of Health, the Department of Children and Families and the Agency for Health Care Administration. It connects individuals experiencing an overdose to immediate stabilization, followed by longterm, sustainable care through specialized hospitals, outpatient practices, medication-assisted treatment, primary care, mental health support and patient navigation. Blaire explained the funding ties with the Community Foundation. “The Community Foundation facilitates AdventHealth funding our program through a grant. I am not aware of any grant received by Ocala Fire Rescue sought out by the Community Foundation to fund any program we have,” Blaire noted. The council also approved

CEP membership Continued from page A1 “To put it as crudely as possible, $10,000 is a big price tag to be a part of a chamber of commerce for a school district,” Campbell said, questioning whether the benefits of the partnership would continue even if the district wasn’t “paying to play.” Gary Smallridge, principal of Marion Technical College (MTC), clarified that the membership is paid out of MTC’s budget using workforce money, not the school board’s general fund. Smallridge defended the investment, noting that the networking opportunities alone have provided a significant return on investment. He cited a recent connection made through the CEP that allowed MTC to purchase two semi-trucks at half price, a deal that “more than paid for a couple years’ worth of membership.” Smallridge even offered a lighthearted negotiation to the board.

“My recommendation is to let you guys pay half of it and I’ll pay half,” Smallridge said, noting that the board is invited to most events and benefits from the CEP’s advocacy letters for state appropriations. Board Chair Sarah James acknowledged the political weight of the partnership, specifically the CEP’s role in funding the district’s recent sales tax campaign. “It’s not lost on me that the CEP solely funded our sales tax campaign to the tune of $220,000,” James said. “The only people who win elections generally speaking... are ones that are well funded.” The board also urged McCormick to align the CEP’s goals with the district’s top legislative priority: improving school attendance. Board member Nancy Thrower noted that the attendance statute hasn’t been revisited since 1980 and is foundational to workforce development because “99% of life is showing up.”

a $100,000 grant from the Community Foundation and the corresponding budget resolution to support the program. Residents in Ocala can access the program through referrals from healthcare providers, emergency services or community organizations. Discussing expansion and alignment with city goals, Blaire stated that OFR’s program is one of the most referenced programs in the state regarding innovation and efficiency. “Ocala has helped many other Florida programs develop and launch successfully. From medical protocols to workflows and marketing strategies, Ocala Fire Rescue is a leader in Mobile Integrated Health, the new nomenclature for Community Paramedicine. We estimate the reduction in our 911 calls between 6-10%. Ocala Fire Rescue is also developing one of the first shared revenue models in the state, a new way to find sustainable funding for programs,” he said. To clarify differences from the county’s program and access methods, Blaire detailed that the main difference between the program is how each of the participants’ needs are addressed. “The Ocala Fire Rescue Program responds to its participants with a board-

McCormick committed to sitting down with each board member individually to ensure the relationship remains productive. “We want to win, all of us do,” he said. The city and county membership costs with the CEP are much higher than the school district’s cost. Thirteen years ago, the Marion County Board of Commissioners entered into an agreement with the CEP to help with economic development. For contracts dated October 2014 through September 2017, the county paid the CEP $245,000 annually and for contracts October 2017 through September 2021, $285,000 annually. Since October 2021, the county has paid the CEP $300,000 annually. The city of Ocala, similarly, has been under contract with the CEP for 13 years. During the years 2012 through 2014, the city paid the CEP $145,000 annually; from 2015 through 2018, the city paid the organization $165,000 annually. Since 2019, the annual contribution has been $190,000.

certified CP-C and a Crisis Behavioral Care Counselor. The CP-C is an international board certification for paramedics and we require our team to have that distinction. Our Crisis Behavioral Care Counselor functions as a social worker and case manager. The paramedic focuses on clinical medical interventions and the Crisis Behavioral Care Counselor, an employee of Marion Senior Services, focuses on connecting the person to resources,” he said. “For example, a 60-yearold male who may be living alone without family does not realize he is struggling with cognitive decline,” he said. “A common scenario is he will start hallucinating, seeing people in his yard after the sun goes down. This scenario, referred to as ‘sundowners’ usually manifests in the person calling 911 for law enforcement to investigate. Our LEO has special training to evaluate each incident like this and refer it to our program. “Once we receive the referral,” Blaire continued, “we respond and try to put services in place to stop the 911 calls and make the person struggling as safe as possible. Sometimes that requires connecting him back to a family that lives out of town. Sometimes that involves finding a long-term care facility for him to go to.

Other times it is just making sure he has food to eat and some light housekeeping or companionship.” OFR is also running several pilot programs focused on providing advanced clinical care. “Many times, people are not sick enough to be in the hospital but are too sick to be at home without resources,” Blaire said. “For example, a person may have had a significant heart attack. They receive all the medical care they need and are on the road to recovery but might not understand all the different medications they need to take. We provide that medical literacy as well as medication reconciliations to keep that person safe at home. People who are not connected to our program may have a tendency to use 911 for those services,” Blaire explained. “Ocala Fire Rescue is also running a number of pilot programs. We have what we are calling the Circulatory Support Program. With the help of AdventHealth and the ECMO and eCPR program, we are developing specialized protocols to help those people who are being discharged from the hospital after having been on heart, or lung or heart and lung bypass get better, faster,” Blaire said. “We are running a pilot with AdventHealth’ s Congestive Heart Failure Program. We have established success in keeping this group of people from having to use the emergency room for their care. We can track the participants’ vital signs and look for trending in the wrong direction. If the person is trending poorly, we can intervene before a hospital stay is necessary. The last pilot we are running is for patients who have had a procedure called a TAVR (trans aortic valve replacement). These programs allow us to stay on the cutting edge of all other programs in Florida. Our multidisciplinary team allows the paramedic to focus on medical care and the other team members to focus on their area of expertise,” he continued. According to Blaire, these initiatives position OFR at the forefront of similar efforts across Florida. “Our multidisciplinary team allows the paramedic to focus on medical care and the other team members to focus on their area of expertise,” he said.

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December 26 - January 1, 2026 | OCALA GAZETTE

Ocala adopts citizen participation plan The goal is to involve residents in decisions about federal housing and community development funds. By Jamie Berube jamie@ocalagazette.com

n Dec. 16, the Ocala City Council adopted a new Citizen Participation Plan (CPP) for the Ocala Marion Consortium, outlining strategies to involve residents in decisions about federal housing and community development funds. The plan, adopted by resolution, ensures compliance with federal regulations and emphasizes outreach to low-income residents, non-English speakers and people with disabilities. The CPP governs the use of U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) funds, including Community Development Block Grants (CDBG), HOME Investment Partnerships Program (HOME) and Emergency Solutions Grants (ESG). Marion County serves as the lead jurisdiction for the consortium, which includes the city of Ocala. Advisory groups and residents can play a key role in helping decide how about $5 million in federal and state funds are spent each year on affordable housing in Marion County and Ocala. These dollars come from HUD programs and Florida’s State Housing Initiatives Partnership (SHIP). According to Marion County’s fiscal year 2024-2025 Annual Action Plan notice on marionfl. org, unincorporated areas of the county get $2,170,659 in CDBG funds. The Ocala Marion Consortium receives additional HOME and ESG money, typically $800,000-$900,000 for HOME and $190,000-$200,000 for ESG based on recent trends. The city of Ocala gets its own separate CDBG allocation, usually $1-2 million. State SHIP funds add more support for local projects. When added together, these resources total several million dollars annually (often around $5 million across all sources), paying for things like home repairs for low-income owners, help with down payments, new rental units and aid for people facing homelessness. According to the Florida Apartment Association’s Scarcity Dashboard (buildflorida2030.com), Marion County has a current shortage of 3,130 apartment units across all income levels, with about 6,696 units missing for households earning below $20,000 a year. By 2030, that overall gap is projected to reach 7,894 units and more than 11,021 units short for households under $35,000 annually. “Marion County and the city of Ocala are entitlement recipients of CDBG funds. The county is an eligible HOME entitlement community and formed a consortium with the city of Ocala so it, too, may receive HOME funds on an annual basis,” the plan states. The document details processes for public input on key plans, such as the fiveyear Consolidated Plan, Annual Action Plan (AAP) and Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Choice (AI). It requires

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at least two public hearings for major documents, with notices published in newspapers and on the county’s website at least 15 days in advance. Public comment periods are set at 30 days for the Consolidated Plan, AAP, substantial amendments, AI and CPP amendments and 15 days for performance reports. To encourage broad participation, the CPP prioritizes “good faith efforts” to include low- and moderate-income residents, those living in blighted areas, non-English speakers and persons with disabilities. According to the document, the county believes that the citizen participation process provides an important opportunity for its residents, especially low- and moderate-income residents, nonprofit groups (neighborhood organizations), authorities and other service providers to be actively involved in the preparation and implementation of the Consolidated Plan. Greg Davis, public information officer for Ocala, explained the city’s implementation. “The city of Ocala conducts outreach by presenting plans in public settings and engaging directly with organizations that serve low- and moderate-income residents. This includes presentations to Governor’s West, the city’s Affordable Housing Advisory Committee and meetings hosted by Continuum of Care organizations such as the Ocala Housing Authority,” Davis said. The plan also addresses accommodations such as language assistance for limited-English-proficient residents and accessible meeting locations. “The county shall take reasonable steps to provide language assistance to ensure meaningful access to participation by non-English speaking and limited-Englishproficient residents (LEP) and the county has an established LEP Policy,” it notes. For persons with disabilities, all public meetings must be held in handicappedaccessible locations, with provisions for sign language interpretation or alternate

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formats upon request. On fair housing, the CPP requires consultations with public housing authorities, service providers for vulnerable populations and fair housing organizations. Public hearings are mandated during AI development. “The city offers public meetings and provides information at meetings where there is representation or advocacy for vulnerable populations. Feedback from these sessions helps inform fair housing priorities and planning efforts,” Davis said. The consortium encourages partnerships with entities like the Continuum of Care, broadband providers and emergency management agencies to address issues such as the digital divide and flood-prone areas. According to the National Digital Inclusion Alliance, the digital divide is the gap between those who have affordable access, skills and support to effectively engage online and those who do not. “The city of Ocala is a member of the Marion County Continuum of Care. The deputy director of Community Development Services serves on the Marion County Emergency Operations Human Services team. The director of Community Development Services also meets regularly with the director of Marion County Community Services and leadership from Emergency Operations Human Services, along with state and federal agencies as needed. The Community Participation Plan also allows residents to raise concerns during public comment periods, helping staff identify issues that may not otherwise be known. All public comments are included in the appropriate federal or state reports,” Davis said. Technical assistance is available for low- and moderate-income residents developing proposals, including workshops and one-on-one support. Davis provided examples. “Technical assistance related to public services and public facility projects is

primarily provided by Marion County. The city of Ocala primarily works with individual homeowners and the city’s administrative team provides ongoing assistance to applicants throughout the application process. This daily support helps residents navigate requirements and improves access to housing programs,” Davis said. The CPP includes an AntiDisplacement and Relocation Policy to minimize resident displacement in revitalization projects, complying with the Uniform Relocation Act. “The Consortium has adopted an Anti-Displacement and Relocation Policy to minimize the extent to which low- and moderate-income residents will have to leave their homes as a result of the use of these federal dollars,” the document states. According to Davis, the city of Ocala has not displaced residents as part of its projects. “Projects are thoroughly reviewed during the planning process and the city generally avoids projects that would require displacement of residents,” he said. Regarding alignment between city and county plans, Davis said the city of Ocala receives CDBG funding as an entitlement city and not as part of the consortium. “Historically, the city has used the same Community Participation Plan for both CDBG and HOME programs. The city plans to adopt a separate CDBG Community Participation Plan that mirrors the consortium plan to ensure consistency in operations between the city and county and across federal grant programs,” Davis said. The plan allows for shortened comment periods during emergencies with HUD waivers. “The city of Ocala has not experienced challenges meeting the required 30-day public comment periods. In situations involving emergency funding or waivers, HUD typically includes provisions that allow jurisdictions to bypass or shorten standard public comment requirements,” Davis explained. Records related to the CPP and funded programs are available for public inspection at Marion County Community Services and Ocala Community Development Services offices. Complaints can be submitted via email to communityservices@marionfl.org, with responses provided within 15 business days. This adoption amends and supersedes prior versions of the CPP for Marion County and the city of Ocala, in compliance with Section 104(a)(3) of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974. Residents can view the full plan on the county’s website or request copies. To learn more, go to marionfl.org/ agencies-departments/departmentsfacilities-offices/community-services and ocalafl.gov/government/communitydevelopment-services

Novel plan Continued from page A1 “They’re talking about getting rid of property taxes. You know, that’s how you guys pay your bills. So, it’s a very interesting time to be proposing language for a school district, but I think of this as an opportunity versus anything else.” Despite these challenges, Roberts described his team as being in the “background” working to clear a path through the legislative and legal “red tape.” “We’re kind of, I use this example, we’re going through the jungle chopping the first trail with a machete and it is tough,” Roberts told the board. “Every difficulty that has hit us has made us better and it’s vetted our process better.” To navigate the current impasse, Upward Communities has shifted its focus toward a potential partnership with the county, which has “home rule” and legal precedent for offering workforce housing. Under this proposed model, the county would carry the master lease while still dedicating a specific number of units to school district staff.

School board members remained vocal in their support of the vision. Board member Allison Campbell, who in August noted it was a matter of “when” and not “if ” the plan goes forward, stated she remains “all on board with whatever it looks like,” even if the county facilitates the first phase. Board chair Sarah James expressed her commitment to finding “affordable or at least more affordable options” for the district’s nearly 7,000 employees. Roberts informed the board that his team has enrolled lobbyists and political figures to help “advance this program” and make it “crystal clear” for Florida school districts that staff housing can be property tax exempt. He expects to have a legislative update by March 2026. “We would not pursue this if we were not optimistic and believe that we’re at about a 99% chance that we’re going to be successful,” Roberts said. “That’s how diamonds are made, time and pressure, and we’re good at both of those.”

December 26 - January 1, 2026 | OCALA GAZETTE

Mary Sue Rich Continued from page A1

Mary Sue Rich, fifth from left, and Ruth Reed cut the ribbon together during the ribbon cutting ceremony for the Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place in Ocala on Jan. 10, 2023. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette file photo]

Mary Sue Rich at her retirement party Jan. 30, 2020, at Hilton Ocala. [Isabelle Ramirez/Ocala Style file photo]

Rich earned a degree in criminal justice from the University of Central Florida and worked for the Florida Department of Corrections as a correctional probation senior supervisor. She retired in 2003, after 27 years with the department. She was instrumental in starting 1st Step Inc. and served as president for nearly 20 years. She received Distinguished Service Awards from the Florida Council on Crime and Delinquency and Central Florida Community College. She was involved organizations including Students Against Drunk Driving (SADD) a local Weed and Seed Task Force to help “weed out” crime and “seed in” positive actions. She received the Humanitarian of the Year Award from United Way of Marion County in 2005. For years, she chaired the Racial Harmony and Cultural Awareness Task Force, which she helped start in the early 2000s, inspired by a lecture on racism she heard at a national event. On Jan. 10, 2023, Rich was front and center for the grand opening of the Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place, at 1821 NW 21st Ave., Ocala. The venue is named honor of Rich and Ruth Reed. Reed, who lives nearby, was the power behind a campaign to improve the health and wellness of her family and neighbors in the wake of a charcoal plant opening down the street. The Royal Oak charcoal plant was seen as an asset in 1975 but later was considered to have a detrimental effect on the community. Residents said soot and ash from the plant would cover their vehicles overnight and coat the outsides of their homes. Though not proven medically, many residents who developed chronic respiratory conditions or cancer blamed their health issues on the emissions and pollution the plant produced. Reed formed the Neighborhood Citizens of Northwest Ocala. That group and Wild Law, a nonprofit organization focused on environmental protection, lobbied the Ocala City Council to try to clean up the plant’s operations. The City Council wrote letters to the DEP and to state and federal elected officials. The DEP soon found nine potential violations, including that the plant was emitting a hazardous amount of the pollutant methanol and not reporting it in permit applications. In December

Mary Sue Rich speaks as her son, Franklin Rich, stands with her at the podium during the groundbreaking ceremony for the Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place in Ocala on Jan. 28, 2021. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette file photo]

Ruth Reed took the controls of a piece of heavy equipment to start tearing down the controversial Royal Oak charcoal plant in West Ocala. Longtime Ocala City Councilwoman Mary Sue Rich was there to watch. The site is now the home of the Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place. [Ocala Style file photo]

2005, the Roswell, Georgia-based Royal Oak Enterprises announced it would close the Ocala plant by the end of February 2006 due to higher operating costs and environmental issues caused by the poor quality of the raw materials used in the production of charcoal, the reports state. “I remember the emissions from that charcoal plant,” Rich recalled in the article in “Style.” “You would wake up in the morning, and your car and house would be covered with ash and soot.” Rich also recalled years of involvement with Reed’s nonprofit group and city and state agencies in investigating the allegations about the plant. “A number of people were involved with that plant for years, but it was Ruth Reed who never gave up,” Rich said in the “Style” article. After the plant closure, the city bought the property. “We bought it to secure it for the future,” Rich said. “And then somebody brought up the idea of putting a community center there.” In August of 2018, Reed was at the controls of a piece of heavy equipment that began to rip panels off the façade of the main building at the abandoned plant. A cloud of black soot roiled the air. Rich was standing by watching and applauding. Reed Place spans 24.5 acres in the West Ocala Community Redevelopment Area. The land was acquired from Royal Oak. The community center is sited on approximately 10 of those acres. The center offers a wide range of activities, serves as a community hub and is the home of the Sankofa Public Library. Rich, who remained involved with the city and her church, even while on dialysis three times a week and recovering from knee surgery, said in the magazine article that the community center will be her physical legacy, but she hopes her personal legacy will be that she’s “been involved with so many things to enhance the lives of people in Ocala, to make things better for them.” She said her dedication and motivation to advance the quality of life here stemmed from her love of her community. “Ocala was a great place to raise my children. It’s not a big city and it’s not a small country town,” she offered. “I just want people to enjoy living in this

beautiful part of the country.” On Jan. 31, the ballroom at the Ocala Hilton was filled with colleagues, friends and family members there to honor the beloved community leader. The event, hosted by the City of Ocala Municipal Government, was a benefit to help fund an endowment for the Mary Sue Rich Scholarship at the College of Central Florida, where Rich earned her degree.

FAMILY REMEMBRANCES

On Thursday, Franklin Rich said by phone that some of his fondest memories of his mother were spending summer vacations together. “I spent most of my adult life in Minneapolis, Minnesota. She loved to come to Minnesota to visit me. I played sports at Vanguard. I played on a state championship basketball team, played football, and he would always be at my games cheering me on. I could always hear her voice over the crowd’s voice,” he shared. “One of the biggest life lessons she taught me is that everybody matters. She was a people person. She was all about community; all about helping people. That’s what she has given me most, compassion for those who are less fortunate. And just making a difference in the lives of those that we can,” he added. Krysia Rich, one of Rich’s three daughters, said her mother taught her to “always be honest and move with integrity. She had a heart for people. That’s why she was active in the community.” When asked what her mother’s legacy will be, she replied, “Her legacy will be her community service. Throughout her career she worked with people, so her activity in the community. To want to better the lives of the people in the community. And she valued diversity.” Krysia said her mother taught her children to “Do your best. Always try. Don’t give up.” “She loved her community and enjoyed living in her community. That’s why she never moved away and always stayed where she was born. She loved the community and all people,” Krysia added. “She was a lifelong Ocala resident. Wherever she traveled through the League of Cities, she always represented and spoke highly of and worked hard for the city of Ocala. She was very passionate about it everywhere she went,” Franklin noted.

COMMUNITY MEMBERS REFLECT Karla Greenway is the chief executive officer of the nonprofit Interfaith Emergency Services, one of the largest such organizations in the area, which helps thousands of people with a wide range of services. The IES administrative office and an adjacent food distribution warehouse and client services center are located in West Ocala. “She was a champion for her community. And was courageous enough to step into leadership roles that were traditionally held by men,” Greenway shared via a text message. “I’m grateful for the path she paved for others. And as someone who serves in the community that she represented. I am so grateful for her dedication to our neighbors here in West Ocala. She has left a heart-print on this community that will last forever.” Monica Bryant Monica Bryant is the Family Violence Prevention Coordinator for the Marion County Children’s Alliance and knew Rich for many, many years. “Ms. Rich was a mentor to a lot of young women like me. She was an example of what true leadership looked like, and she served with a servant’s heart. She showed us that sometimes you have to stand for what you believe in, even if you had to stand alone. She loved her family and she loved this community. This is a tremendous loss for all of us,” Bryant shared via text. Cynthia Wilson Graham is a noted businesswoman, author, photographer, educator and community advocate. She also has known Rich for a number of years. “Mary Sue Rich left an indelible mark on Marion County as a trailblazing leader,” Graham offered in a text message. “Her remarkable career was defined by her unwavering commitment to doing what was right, even in the face of adversity. As a woman in a male-dominate field, she broke down barriers and inspired countless others, including me, to follow in her footsteps as a community leader.” In addition to Franklin Rich and Krysia Rich, Mary Sue Rich is survived by daughters Vivian McCray and Sibyl Rich, her extended family and many other loved ones and friends. Funeral arrangements remained pending at press time. This article will be updated on ocalagazette.com when the information is made available.

December 26 - January 1, 2026 | OcaLa GaZeTTe

OPINION By Jennifer Hunt Murty jennifer@ocalagazette.com

‘Full and honest update?’ Reader beware.

hen Marion County Commission Chairman Carl Zalak and Marion County Fire Rescue Chief James Banta released a late-Friday evening video announcing the termination of six firefighters connected — directly or indirectly — to the violent hazing incident against a new hire at Station 21, they framed it as transparency. A “full and honest update,” Zalak told the public. But words matter. And in this case, Marion County government’s public-relations strategy raises more questions than it answers. Let’s be clear at the outset: Nothing in this editorial diminishes the seriousness of the criminal allegations already charged and now moving through the courts against a few very early-career firefighters who allegedly waterboarded and whipped their colleague. Those allegations are grave, and the judicial process — not social media videos — is where guilt or innocence will be determined. What deserves scrutiny is how county leadership chose to communicate its administrative response — and what that communication left out.

A DOUBLE STANDARD IN PUBLIC DISCIPLINE

Marion County does not hold press conferences every time an employee is fired, arrested or accused of serious wrongdoing. Neither does the Marion County Sheriff ’s Office when its deputies get arrested. And, yes, it happens more often than the public probably guesses. Yet in this case, Sheriff Billy Woods stood alongside county leaders at a high-profile press conference, followed days later by the separate video in which

Zalak announced additional firings — bringing the total to 10, including supervisors not accused of criminal conduct. That inconsistency matters. It creates the appearance that MCFR is being subjected to public discipline by spectacle, rather than discipline by process.

“THOROUGH” WITHOUT TRANSPARENCY

Zalak assured residents the county’s actions were “thorough.” But thoroughness is difficult to accept when the county has declined to provide the records it says justify those decisions. Attorneys for at least two of the terminated firefighters told the “Gazette” they have not received the statements or evidence relied upon by the county for the firings, leaving them unable to meaningfully respond or prepare for grievance proceedings. The firefighters’ union confirmed it, too, has not received those materials. The “Gazette” has made repeated public-records requests seeking the documents underlying the terminations. They have not been produced. Assurances without access do not equal transparency.

DUE PROCESS IS NOT OPTIONAL

Florida law spells out the rights of firefighters during investigations, including notice of allegations, access to interrogation records, and protections against retaliatory discipline. What is particularly troubling is the indication that the county relied heavily on statements made to law enforcement by firefighters who were not involved in the criminal incident and were not notified they were being investigated.

Zalak presumably knew when he recorded his video that at least two of the dismissed firefighters had retained legal counsel and intended to pursue relief through the grievance process — once their attorneys could even obtain the evidence. But he did not include that in his “honest” update. Publicly announcing firings while withholding records from those accused does not strengthen accountability, and it likely undermines the confidence MCFR firefighters may have in the county’s fairness.

CONTEXT MATTERS: LABOR NEGOTIATIONS AND A STRAINED HISTORY

This episode does not exist in a vacuum. Marion County is currently negotiating a new three-year contract with the Professional Firefighters of Marion County, a process that places unusual weight on how leadership actions are perceived by rank-and-file firefighters. It also matters that Zalak has a well-documented history of conflict with MCFR. In 2022, the union publicly declined to endorse Zalak’s re-election bid, instead backing his opponent. Previous union president Daniel Garcia told the “Gazette” at the time: “Zalak has been an occasional supporter of the fire department, but he’s rarely been a supporter of firefighters, EMTs or paramedics.” That reporting also documented closed-door litigation meetings in which Zalak was recorded saying fire captains who sued the county over overtime pay were “going to go through hell,” remarks that required intervention from the county attorney to warn against

Horse racing proposal re-emerges A 2025 version of the bill drew opposition from Ocala’s FTBOA. By The News Service of Florida

fter a fight about the issue during the 2025 legislative session, a House Republican on Dec. 23 filed a proposal that would eliminate a requirement that Florida’s two remaining thoroughbred horse tracks hold races to be able to offer other types of gambling. Rep. Adam Anderson, R-Palm Harbor, filed the proposal (HB 881) for the 2026 session, which will start Jan. 13.

In a concept known as “decoupling,” the bill would erase a requirement that Gulfstream Park and Tampa Bay Downs hold live races to be able to operate cardrooms and, in the case of Gulfstream, slot machines. The bill would allow the tracks to notify the Florida Gaming Control Commission on or after July 1, 2027, that they do not intend to continue running races. They could end the races three years after giving notice. A version of the bill during the

2025 session drew fierce opposition from the Florida Thoroughbred Breeders’ and Owners’ Association, which is headquartered in Ocala, and other critics who said it posed a threat to areas such as Marion County, which is a major player nationally in horse breeding. The bill would lead to thoroughbred tracks being treated similarly to former greyhound and harness racing tracks that do not hold races but have been able to continue other forms of gambling.

House sets ﬁrst week schedule By The News Service of Florida

he Florida House will hold one f loor session and two full days of subcommittee meetings during the first week of the 2026 legislative

session, according to a tentative schedule posted online. The 60-day legislative session will start Jan. 13, with Gov. Ron DeSantis giving his “State of the State” address to lawmakers at 11 a.m. in the House chamber. The House is

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slated to hold a f loor session on Jan. 15 and more than 20 subcommittee meetings on Jan. 13 and 14. The Senate, which posted its schedule earlier, has set aside time for f loor sessions on Jan. 14 and 15.

retaliation. Zalak has denied that history reflects hostility toward firefighters, and he now denies that the county’s recent publicrelations strategy was intended to damage the credibility of either the MCFR or the union. That denial deserves to be noted. But context still matters — especially when leadership chooses maximum visibility discipline during active labor negotiations.

SMOKE, MIRRORS AND THE COST OF “ACCESS”

The sheriff ’s office spokesperson defended the initial press conference by saying it “just seemed the best way to make it easier on the media,” allowing reporters to get answers in one place rather than “bounce between” agencies. Yet, when the “Gazette” asked the sheriff ’s office for copies of the very statements the county says it relied upon to fire employees, the response was not access—but a $780 invoice. This is what smoke-andmirrors transparency looks like: high-visibility announcements, low-visibility records, and a price tag attached to public information.

ACCOUNTABILITY DOES NOT REQUIRE THEATRICS

No one is asking the county to conceal misconduct. The “Gazette” has consistently reported verified facts as they become available, including arrests, charges and official statements. But transparency is not achieved through Friday-night videos or press conferences that blur administrative discipline with criminal prosecution. It is achieved through consistent standards, timely compliance with public-

records law, and respect for due process—even when the facts are uncomfortable. If county leadership believes its actions will withstand scrutiny, then it should welcome scrutiny. That means releasing records, explaining process — not outcomes — and resisting the urge to substitute public-relations choreography for public accountability. The public relations theatrics may be an attempt to distract the public from the strain MCFR is under due to decisions by the commission to accelerate the county’s population growth in the manner they have without the proper infrastructure. In the case of station 21, the busiest station in the county, MCFR has previously told commissioners that the call volume is four times what it should be handling. Yet, the county refuses to create a concurrency standard for development related to public safety, just like they have on schools and other vital services. In order to get enough hands to meet the demand, MCFR has had to recruit young people right out of high school, pay their way through fire college, and put them in a field with significant exposure to traumatic events, without enough supervision. And even in the case of supervision, the lieutenant at the station that day had been promoted to management just a month before. As previously reported, the department is currently looking at hiring at least 100 more people to meet the demands of the growing population. MCFR is also seeking to recruit managers from other departments, managers who don’t have the protections of the firefighters bill of rights. One would wonder if these recent events — combined with the increasing call volume, history of suicides at the department, and litigation — will give some potential candidates pause.

Public Notice

December 26 - January 1, 2026 | OcaLa GaZeTTe

Brewer

Bill would eliminate registration decals

Continued from page A1 Board chair Sarah James, Ph.D., led the call to cancel the search, noting that the district’s projected 7% increase in graduation rates over the last two years is a direct reflection of Brewer’s leadership. “I feel confident in the work that’s being done with the leadership we have in Marion County Public Schools right now,” James said. “This ship... is headed in a path that is positive and disrupting the leadership at this point I could see having negative implications.” Brewer accepted the board’s invitation to stay on permanently. “I have just had the honor of leading this incredible group... and I hope I can continue to lead this great team,” she said. Board member Nancy Thrower emphasized that the district is reaping the benefits of “stability” after years of major distractions, including the COVID-19 pandemic and multiple hurricanes. “We have stability in our favor right now,” Thrower said. “The familiarity of people that have stayed, that sense of calm, creates the ability to really focus on the task at hand. I want to be married to reality, not to process... Why would we spend that money right now to do a deep and wide national search?” While the support was unanimous, some board members acknowledged the difficulty of deviating from the formal search process originally promised to the public. Board member Eric Cummings, who has been a vocal proponent of following established procedures, nonetheless agreed that Brewer’s results were undeniable. “I fully support Dr. Brewer, but I also support processes,” Cummings said. “I just want to be on record saying I believe in the process, but I also believe that Dr. Brewer and the team can get the job done.” Board member Allison Campbell, who originally favored outside candidates during the initial interim selection, stated she was “more than pleasantly surprised” by the current trajectory of student achievement.

By The News Service of Florida

“The energy within the district is palpable; you can feel it, you can see it,” Campbell said. “Student achievement has to be the primary focus and the goal of everything that we do. The data is looking positive... the leadership that has been put into place is exceeding expectations.” Board member Lori Conrad pointed to the positive morale among school staff as a key factor in her support. “Our data is trending upward, graduation is trending upward, and staff, when you visit schools, are excited about the direction that we’re moving,” Conrad said. “Staff members are happy and community members are happy... people are very happy to see that you are at the table.” Regarding the history of the position, Campbell reminded the community that residents voted to go with an appointed superintendent instead of an elected one in a 2018 ballot measure. She noted that many citizens who previously advocated for returning to an elected model have reached out to express their appreciation for the district’s current direction. The board will meet on Jan. 8 to begin formal contract negotiations. While final salary figures are yet to be determined, board members indicated the compensation would likely reflect that of an appointed superintendent in a district of Marion County’s size, which is significantly higher than the salary structure for elected superintendents. Campbell provided context on the salary range for an elected superintendent to clarify the financial implications of the role. She said that if Marion County still had an elected superintendent, the statecalculated salary for 2025-2026 would be $217,448. According to Campbell, when the community voted to move to an appointed model in 2018, the salary for that position was around $140,000. The state-mandated salary range for elected superintendents, however, saw an increase of approximately $42,000 from 2023 to 2025.

otorists would no longer have to peel and place yellow vehicle registration stickers on their license plates, under a measure filed Friday for the 2026 regular session that begins Jan. 13. The proposal (HB 841 and SB 982) would still require individuals to follow registration and renewal rules. The measure’s sponsors — Rep. Tom Fabricio, R-Miami Lakes, and Sen. Ana Maria Rodriguez, R-Doral — maintain that doing away with the sticky labels would save money for motorists and county officials. Law enforcement officers already can verify vehicle registration digitally, the legislators noted in a press release. “In an era of real-time digital

verification, clinging to physical decals is outdated. This commonsense change reduces burdens on taxpayers, prevents fraud and streamlines government, exactly what Floridians expect from their leaders,” Rodriguez said in the release. The proposal also would reduce fraud and theft of stolen decals, according to the bill’s sponsors. “Families should not be forced to wait for mailed stickers, pay replacement fees or risk theft when technology does the job better,” Fabricio said. Other states have started eliminating registration decals “with zero issues,” according to the release. “Florida families deserve efficient, modern government, not relics from the past,” Fabricio added, calling the elimination of the decals a “slam dunk for savings and security.”

Public Notice

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December 26 - January 1, 2026 | OcaLa GaZeTTe

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December 26 - January 1, 2026 | OCALA GAZETTE

People, Places and Things

Community connectivity Ocala Main Street and its Heart of the Park endeavor aim to tie Tuscawilla Park more into the downtown and midtown areas.

Adam Sines, an Ocala Main Street volunteer and the museum exhibit coordinator, and Jessica Fieldhouse, OMS executive director, look over historic photos and items on display in the Heart of the Park on Northeast Sanchez Avenue in Ocala on Dec. 15, 2025. The venue is located in the former American Legion building.

Adam Sines describes a 1917 Edison C-250 phonograph on display.

By Susan Smiley-Height susan@magnoliamediaco.com

here is a new/old gem inside Tuscawilla Park that is increasingly becoming a hub for a wide range of community activities and is a venerable venue in which to showcase local history. The Heart of the Park, headquarters for Ocala Main Street, a 501©3 nonprofit, is in the former American Legion building at 516 NE Sanchez Ave., Ocala, which was built in 1920. Since the “Gazette” last reported on activities at the venue, which included some renovations, replacing and moving HVAC units and redoing the electrical system, a number of new historic exhibits have been added inside the spacious “ballroom” area. Overall plans for the campus include opening a corner store, installing an expansive deck that overlooks the beautiful park and its lake, further expanding the exhibits by partnering with local museums and organizations, daily programming focused on wellness and community, and enhanced connectivity throughout the park and into the midtown and downtown areas. At the heart of the Heart of the Park activities are Ocala Main Street Executive Director Jessica Fieldhouse and volunteer Adam Sines, who is a true history buff. The “Gazette” spent some time with the two recently to get up to speed on some of the changes and upcoming events.

A James Melton record is shown on the Edison phonograph.

THE EXHIBITS

Sines explained that there are three parts to the planned museum exhibits inside the center and gave this synopsis of the first section. “The first part is all of our city partnership entities and Ocala Main Street, so when you first come in the main doors and go to your right, you have the Ocala Main Street collection. These are things that we’ve acquired as a nonprofit, whether it be donations from individuals in the community or things that we’ve purchased ourselves, and this is all focused on historic downtown,” Sines shared. “If we start around the turn of the century with what we have on display now, one of the exhibits when you come in is a copy of the ‘Ocala Evening Star’ from 1898 when Theodore Roosevelt made a stop in Ocala on his way to Cuba with the Rough Riders to fight in the Spanish American War. The article talks about Roosevelt coming out to give a little speech to everyone who greeted them. We have a plaque that’s cast from bronze from the USS Maine. The sinking of the Maine was the catalyst to begin the Spanish American War in 1898. We don’t know how this plaque got to Ocala. There were around 2000 of them made and

Historic photos and items from the Ocala Fire Department recently went on display.

Historic photos of Ocala.

dispersed in 1920 to different cities and counties. We don’t know if it was donated to the city or the county. It ended up in storage and Marion County Veterans Services acquired it and it’s part of their collection that’s on loan to us,” Sines elaborated. Pointing to three large wooden phonographs and some radios in the room, Sines noted that they have a machine from 1914 coming soon that will play an Edison wax cylinder of Roosevelt speaking. “These machines create a little bit of a more engaging tour for kids and adults as well. There’s a gentleman in Zephyrhills who’s working on that machine,” he shared. Among the historic exhibits are ones featuring noted politician William Jennings Bryan and references to the W.C. Fields movie “The Old Army Game,” which was shot in Ocala. Next year, according to Sines, there will be a bigger exhibit showcasing the movie, with stills and other items. A free-standing exhibit about famed tenor James Melton includes some of his records, a signed program and a flier from his performance at the Women’s Club in Ocala in 1919, “and we found the ‘Ocala Evening Star’ article that covered it,” Sines said with enthusiasm. Sines take great pride when he steps to a 1917 Edison C-250 phonograph and gently lifts the arm to place a James Melton LP on the turntable. With a soft release of the needle, Melton’s soaring voice fills the cavernous room. “Honestly, it’s entertaining, because I love my hometown, and to find more interesting facts that I didn’t know, it just makes me want to share that with others. So that’s our whole mission with these exhibits,” Sines offered. Melton has a plaque on the Walk of Fame in front of the historic Marion Theatre in downtown Ocala, along with plaques for Mark Emery, Bruce Swedien, Bruce Mozert and Jordan Klein Sr. Coming next year, a plaque will be added for Newt Perry, the legendary swimmer, swimming coach, movie stand-in and creator of the Weeki Wachee mermaid attraction. The Heart of the Park already has an Outstanding Citizen exhibit highlighting Perry’s accomplishments. Ocala Main Street is working in concert with his daughter, Delee Perry, who still operates the famed Perry Swim School, and others, to place the commemorative plaque and host a celebration and movie showing, with those plans being finalized in coming weeks. On Jan. 6, Newt Perry’s birthday, the Ocala City Council will present a proclamation to Delee Perry in honor of her father. See Community connectivity, page B2

December 26 - January 1, 2026 | OCALA GAZETTE

Community connectivity Continued from page B1

A display featuring Newt Perry.

A memorial tablet cast from metal recovered from the USS Maine that was destroyed on Feb. 15, 1898, in Havana Harbor, is among the exhibits.

This exhibit honors military veteran Lamont Pharmer.

Adam Sines holds an Edison wax cylinder recording.

Other notable exhibits inside the Heart of the Park include one for the late Lamont “Monty” Pharmer, on loan from the Veterans Exhibit and Education Center. Pharmer flew more than 100 combat missions in Vietnam and was in three different branches of the service. “He served in Korea and Vietnam and, after his time of service, dedicated the bulk of his retirement to volunteering at the Silver River Museum, helping to catalog more than 30,000 artifacts.His display is the first in the Hometown Hero series,” Sines stated. There also are displays of historic downtown Ocala, including the hotel that sat on the square, letters written from a local soldier in battle, and more. Among the exhibits being developed are ones in partnership with the Ocala Fire Museum and the Ocala Police Department, and with the famous local band The Royal Guardsmen. “This is all just volunteers and many donations. And we are getting the right people on board, such as Scott Mitchell, Courtland Richards and Brian Stoothoff,” Sines noted.

COMING SOON

Fieldhouse shares that the center has hosted some tours and soft opening

Antique Coca-Cola bottles from the 1940s are marked with Ocala.

A World War I letter dated March 24, 1918, written by a soldier to his girlfriend in Ocala is on display.

activities, but much more is planned. “Arts in Health Ocala Metro has been hosting workshops in here with us. We say that if there is a community group that is offering free programming, they can use the space at no cost,” she said. “The intention is to activate the park, bring the folks in, have the exhibits be open and really just be that hub for Ocala and in the heart of the community.”

“The plan is that on the second Sundays of the month starting in January, we’re going to run a market from Midtown Station all the way up here, with more than 60 vendors, food trucks and kids’ crafts, and we will have a workshop going on inside here,” she said, motioning around the center. Fieldhouse said they are actively recruiting volunteers “to come in and help Adam since he’s really the mover and shaker and made all of this happened for Ocala Main Street so far. He has put in a ton of time and effort to make this a reality.”

“It’s continuing to evolve and we are through phase one, so we’ve started doing rentals in the space, so that is now open for the public, and we are actively fundraising for phase 2,” she added. The next phase will include a spacious outdoors deck and a corner store. “We will be looking for a tenant for that corner store to do beer wine, coffee, small grab-and-go things you can take for a picnic in the park or quick lunch,” she said. “There are so many different pieces of the Heart of the Park. The true intention is the connectivity between the north end of the district at the Reilly Arts Center all the way into downtown. And we’re trying to get people across State Road 40 and bridge the gap there between some of these new developments you see, like Midtown Station and The Forge that will be online in the spring,” Fieldhouse explained. She said they hope to tie a lot of elements together by spring and “really kick off festivals and big programming for Easter, and we’re also doing the Duck Derby, so all kinds of things are coming in the spring.” And Sines chimes in to note that the city of Ocala’s soon-to-arrive trolley also will help “get people across 40.” Fieldhouse goes on to say that she feels Tuscawilla Park is “so beautiful and it’s such an underutilized part of our community. I think it’s definitely come a long way in the last five to 10 years as far as its reputation goes, but this project really is the catalyst to encourage further development on the Midtown and Tuscawilla side, and hopefully we’ll see some additional movement this way.” She said Ocala Main Street also wants to encourage more bike pathways through the city and would love to see golf carts allowed north of SR 40. “All of that is part of Ocala Main Street’s plan and it really started accumulating with this project to try to connect the full district,” she said. “We’re excited that we’ve had some really great support so far and we’re just hoping that more people will embrace what we’re trying to do here.” In addition to recruiting volunteers, Ocala Main Street is accepting donations for the event to honor Newt Perry and the placement of his plaque on the Walk of Fame. Donations may be made at https://checkout. square.site/merchant/EAJZ30MQFRF42/ checkout/7LKQSQ6TAS5TSB63GU3AOAKV or by reaching out via email to museum@heartoftheparkocala.com For more information, go to heartoftheparkocala.com and ocalamainstreet.org

Photos by Bruce Ackerman Ocala Gazette This rendering shows the view looking north from the planned outside deck. [Photo courtesy Ocala Main Street]

December 26 - January 1, 2026 | OCALA GAZETTE

Coming home Habitat hosts two house blessings in northwest Ocala. Staff report

n the early morning of Dec. 19, a horse-drawn carriage driven by Habitat for Humanity of Marion County’s Joanne Black, who is the chief development and retail officer, brought two families to blessings ceremonies for their new homes. The months long endeavors saw the return to Habitat of a womens’ build and a realtors’ build. At 748 NW 14th St., the home of Christina and Curtis Jones home was made possible through the dedication of the Ocala/Marion County Association of Realtors (OMCAR), whose members united this year to invest directly in solutions to the county’s housing challenges. Their work reflects a shared belief that every family deserves the chance to build a safe and stable future, the Habitat news release noted. As with all Habitat homes, prospective homeowners must contribute “sweat equity” and partnering alongside volunteers throughout the journey. The new home for Britney Mann and her children, Caleb Brown, 9, Caiden Brown, 12, and Jada Kendrick, 14, is at 730 NW 14th St. Mann, a devoted mother, has spent the year working steadily through her sweat equity hours while preparing her family for the stability and security of homeownership. Her home represents the revival of Women Build in Marion County, a movement empowering women to step forward as leaders, builders and champions for affordable housing. The walls of her home were raised by volunteers, teams and sponsors who poured their hearts into creating a future where her children can grow, dream and thrive, according to the release. The success of these two homes was made possible through the generosity of community partners who invested in local families and affordable housing solutions. Women Build Home Sponsors included VITAS Healthcare, AGM Roofing, Ausley Construction, VIPcare and SaludVIP, InkSpot Graphics & Print, Wraps & Signs, Mainstreet Community Bank of Florida, Julie Mancini Photography, Harmony Business Solutions, That Party Girl, JNS Pressure Washing, Media Minds, Element 8in Studios, View Florida. La Hacienda, FD Printing, Striker Group, A State Farm – Bonnie L. Wasielewski Agency and a $50,000 anonymous donation from a local foundation, whose gift played a critical role in bringing the Women Build home to completion, the release noted. Realtor Build Home Sponsors were led by OMCAR, whose members came together to fund, build, and advocate for affordable homeownership through their annual Realtor Build initiative, according to the release. “This is what the holiday season is all about,” said Rob Peters, President/CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Marion County, in the release. “Two families, two homes and a community coming together to celebrate hope, hard work and the promise of a brighter tomorrow. These blessings remind us why our mission matters and why we continue to build — one family, one house, one story at a time.” For more information visit habitatocala.org

Britney Mann receives the keys to her new home from Rob Peters, Habitat for Humanity of Marion County President/CEO.

Curtis and Christina Jones, left, and Britney Mann and her children, Caleb Brown, 9, Caiden Brown, 12, and Jada Kendrick, 14, right, are driven in a horse-drawn carriage to the Habitat for Humanity of Marion County house blessings, held next door to each other, on Northwest 14th Street in Ocala on Dec. 19, 2025.

Curtis and Christina Jones are congratulated by Tori Arens, the Habitat for Humanity of Marion County home buyer services director.

Curtis and Christina Jones, with Tori Arens, touch their home as it is blessed.

Britney Mann touches her home as it is blessed.

Rev. Darrell Tolbert blesses a home.

Bibles are given to Curtis and Christina Jones and Britney Mann and her children, by Donna Lanier, Habitat for Humanity of Marion County HR director.

Photos by Bruce Ackerman Ocala Gazette

Derrick Dorvit of Dorvit Ranch stands with Princess Darby, a 17-year-old Gypsy Vanner, who pulled a horse-drawn carriage during the event.

Curtis and Christina Jones and Britney Mann and her children arrive in a carriage driven by Joanne Black, Habitat for Humanity of Marion County chief development and retail officer.

Quilts are given to Curtis and Christina Jones and Britney Mann and her children.

Rob Peters, the Habitat for Humanity of Marion County president/CEO, prays with Curtis and Christina Jones, and Britney Mann and her children.

December 26 - January 1, 2026 | OCALA GAZETTE

Unique New Year’s celebrations Some traditions have persisted for years and are borne of customs from all over the world. Staff report t is time to turn the page on one year and usher in another. Each Dec. 31, people all over the world reminisce, celebrate, plan and party in honor of the changing calendar. Many are likely familiar with some of the common ways to ring in the new year, which include champagne toasts, fireworks and watching the ball drop in Times Square. Yet, there are many other ways to celebrate this occasion and welcome a new year with hope and good luck. Enjoy these ways to commemorate the start of 2025. Make some noise. Although fireworks are commonplace on New Year’s Eve in various locales around the world, in Thailand it once was traditional to fire guns to frighten off demons. National Thailand reports that it is no longer legal to fire weapons during New Year’s Eve festivities, but other noisemakers can simulate

[Stock image]

the ancient tradition. Thailand also has its own New Year celebration in April called Songkran, a threeday event. It’s customary to splash water and shoot colorful water guns, which is another idea for ringing in the new year.

Smash pomegranates for luck. Many have heard of smashing grapes to make wine and the band Smashing Pumpkins has millions of devoted followers across the globe. The comic Gallagher

used to smash watermelons on stage. But in Turkey, smashing a pomegranate outside your front door is said to bring good luck. The fruit is seen as a symbol of prosperity, abundance and health. Make some good luck ‘Hoppin’ John. This is a traditional New Year’s Day dish from regions of the southern United States. The dish is made with black-eyed peas and pork bacon and is said to bring good luck to those who consume it for the new year, according to the “Old Farmer’s Almanac.” Choose honey-dipped apples. People can take a page from the Jewish New Year tradition, which sees celebrants dipping apples in honey for a sweet new year. Rosh Hashanah takes place in late summer or early fall because it follows the Hebrew lunisolar calendar. However, anyone can apply similar customs to the New

Year’s celebrations taking place each Jan. 1. Put on some polka dots. In the Philippines, wearing polkadotted clothing on New Year’s Eve is a tradition said to bring good fortune in the new year, according to Philstar Life. Watch a sunrise. Chances are many revelers are staying up late on New Year’s Eve and into the next day, so they’ll have ample opportunity to catch the sunrise. In Japan, watching the first sunrise of the new year is called “hatsuhinode,” and is a practice thought to bring good fortune. Grab some cash. There’s a perpetuating superstition that it’s better to have some extra money in your wallet to enter the New Year full of financial prosperity. Also, it’s best to wipe out any unpaid debts before Dec. 31 disappears; otherwise, the months ahead might not be financially sound.

Fun ideas for families Celebrate New Year’s Eve with kids in entertaining ways appropriate for everyone in the home. Staff report he New Year’s Eve countdown is on, with people eagerly awaiting the opportunity to say goodbye to this year and welcome the possibilities of the year ahead. The month of January’s name was derived from the Roman god Janus, who was the god of beginnings, endings, doorways and transitions. Symbolized by his two faces looking in opposite directions, Janus presided over many transitions. Billions enjoy celebrating the arrival of a new year. While New Year’s Eve may be known for its raucous nature, complete with overf lowing cocktails and packed dance f loors, parents looking to celebrate with their young children have plenty of options to turn NYE into a more family-friendly affair. Explore these ideas for familyfriendly fun.

Noon Year’s Eve: Staying up until midnight might be a stretch for young children, who tend to get wired and cranky the later into the evening they go beyond typical bedtime. Instead of waiting until 12 a.m. for the countdown, move it back (or ahead) 12 hours to 12 noon. Young children won’t mind if it’s the sun out instead of the moon, as long as they get to make noise and throw confetti. Homemade noisemakers: Making noise is part of the fun of welcoming the new year. Kids can get in on the act of crafting their own noisemakers from items that already may be around the house. Collect empty toilet paper or paper towel cardboard tubes for this purpose. Cover one end of the tube with masking tape or a round piece of plastic. Fill the tube with beads, small seashells, rice or dried beans, leaving

[Stock image]

enough room for the materials to move around inside the tube. Seal the other end and allow the kids to decorate their noisemakers. Then it’s only a matter of shaking them when it’s time to welcome 2026.

Dress-up photo booth: Many people love to dress up for a special occasion. At a family-friendly New Year’s Eve celebration, set aside a corner of a room with dress up props like funny glasses, feather boas,

top hats and NYE-specific items. Explore digital disposable camera apps like POV, Lense or Pixel Party. Guests simply scan a QR code for the event that the party host has established for a low price and can snap moments that are shared effortlessly to one digital place. Kids beverage bar: Ensure that younger guests can be ageappropriate mixologists with sodas, fruit juices, citrus slices and maraschino cherries. Or set up a hot cocoa bar with miniature marshmallows, whipped cream, chocolate shavings and peanut butter chips. Family-friendly dance club: Put together a playlist of popular songs and choose the clean versions so children will not hear questionable lyrics. Clear an area of the party to serve as the dance floor and utilize strobe lights or a disco ball to enhance the atmosphere.

SERIOUSLY SIMPLE

This classic Jewish deli soup reminds me of my mother

y mom really wasn’t a great cook, which I sometimes think is why I was so interested in food and cooking. She had four kids and making dinner every night was not a thrill for her, to say the least. But she did have her specialties like barbecued steak and great California salads. And this delicious soup is the taste memory I think about and make when it’s cold and I’m feeling nostalgic. I prepare a pot of this and invite friends to stop by and have a casual dinner. This hearty reinterpretation of my mom’s mushroom barley and flanken soup is chock-full of both pungent dried mushrooms and fresh cremini and shitake mushrooms. Feel free to select your favorite dried mushroom to create your personal stamp; follow the same soaking directions. Flanken is the short rib that is sliced across the bones into thin strips. It adds another layer of flavor for sure. Also, the touch of soy sauce amplifies the mushroom flavor. This substantial dish is a meal on its own. A simple green salad would be a nice accompaniment.

1 pound beef flanken, 1/2-inch thick, about 4to 6 slices 2 onions, finely chopped 1 leek, white and light green parts only, cleaned and coarsely chopped 2 stalks celery, coarsely chopped 3 carrots, peeled and coarsely chopped 1/4 pound fresh shiitake mushrooms, sliced 1/2 pound fresh cremini mushrooms, sliced 2 garlic cloves, minced 1/2 cup pearl barley 8 cups chicken or vegetable stock 1 ounce dried porcini or morel mushrooms 2 cups boiling water 1 tablespoon reduced salt soy sauce 2 tablespoons finely chopped parsley In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the flanken on each side, about 2 to 3 minutes per side. Remove from pot and reserve on a plate. Add the onion and leek and saute for 3 to 5 minutes, or until softened. Add the celery, carrot, and shiitake and cremini mushrooms, and saute for 3 to 5 minutes longer, or until slightly softened. Add the garlic and saute for another minute. Add

1 This substantial dish is a meal on its own. (Diane Rossen Worthington /TCA).

Mushroom, Barley and Flanken Soup Serves 6 to 8 2 tablespoons olive oil

the barley, reserved flanken and stock, stir together and bring to a boil. Cover, reduce the heat to medium-low, and simmer for about 1 1/2 hours, or until the barley is tender but not mushy. Meanwhile, in a bowl, soak the dried mushrooms in the boiling water for 30 minutes. Drain, reserving the soaking liquid. Squeeze the mushrooms dry and cut them into 1/4-inch cubes. Set aside. Strain the reserved liquid through a finemesh strainer to remove any grit. When the barley is cooked, add 3/4 cup of the strained liquid to the soup or to taste (reserve the remainder for another use or discard) along with the dried mushrooms pieces, soy sauce and parsley and simmer for 5 more minutes. Remove flanken with tongs and cut into small pieces, discarding the gristle and bone, and return to the soup pot. Taste for seasoning. To serve, ladle into soup bowls. Serve immediately. Advance preparation: The dish can be prepared up to three days ahead through Step 4, covered, and refrigerated. Reheat gently. This soup also freezes well for up to one month. Adjust the seasonings when you reheat the frozen soup.

4 5

December 26 - January 1, 2026 | OCALA GAZETTE

Getting ready for MLK events

There are a number of ways people can support the annual march and other activities. By Susan Smiley-Height susan@maganoliamediaco.com

he Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemorative Commission, Inc. will again host a number of events in recognition of the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. This year’s activities have a theme of “Mission Possible II – Uniting the Nation; Building a Future.” The third Monday in January is a federal holiday to remember the slain civil rights activist, who served as pastor of the Dexter Avenue Baptist Church in Montgomery, Alabama, from 1954 to 1965, before he rose to international prominence as the leading voice for equality and social justice in America and around the world until he was assassinated on April 4, 1968. All of the activities taking place in Ocala, ranging from Jan. 10 to Jan. 19, are organized by the commemorative commission. Proceeds will help fund scholarships for local high school students. The commission has issued a call for members of the public to join in, as well as an appeal for vendors, entertainers and volunteers. Below are details about each activity and who to contact to learn more. • Jan. 10: Food Drive, 9 a.m., 2nd Bethlehem Association NW 4th Ave. Ocala; contact Ire Bethea at (352) 208-0819 or Rev. Eric Cummings at (352) 804-6871 • Jan. 17: Prayer Breakfast, 9 a.m., Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place,1821 NW 21st Ave. Ocala; contact Loretta Jenkins at (352) 351-0824 or Paula Leahmon at (352)426-8028 • Jan. 17: Wreath Ceremony, noon, Martin Luther King Jr. Park 500 SW MLK Jr. Ave., Ocala; contact Cassandra Boston at (352) 209-2973 • Jan. 17: Youth Day, 1 p.m.,

Members of the Destiny Leadership Academy march together with hundreds of other people during the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. March on Silver Springs Boulevard in Ocala on Jan. 15, 2024.

Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place, 1821 NW 21st. Ave. Ocala; contact Dwanette Dilworth at (352) 207-6036 or Trellis Hagin at (386) 451-1973 • Jan 18: Ecumenical Service, 6 p.m., New St. John Missionary Baptist Church, 2251 NW 2nd St., Ocala • Jan. 19: MLK March, 8 a.m. lineup in downtown Ocala, march steps off at 9 a.m. and goes to Webb Field at the Martin Luther King Recreation Complex, 1501 W. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala; transportation will be available at 7 a.m. from the racquetball court at the complex; contact Ire Bethea at (352) 208-0819 • Jan 19: Day in the Park, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Webb Field; for activities/vendors, contact Dwanette Dilworth at (352) 207-6036, for stage entertainment, contact TeSha Jackson at (352) 426-0861 In a spirit of teaching younger generations new life skills, the Youth Day event on Jan. 17 will

Maxi Rodriguez of Interfaith Emergency Services, Eric Cummings and Ocala City Councilman Ire Bethea unload donated food from a pickup truck during the Martin Luther King Jr. Day food drive in Ocala on Jan. 18, 2021.

James Henningsen, president of the College of Central Florida, lays a wreath as Officer Malaya Woods and Sgt. Richard Tuck of the Ocala Police Department stand at attention during the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Wreath Memorial Ceremony in Ocala on Jan. 15, 2022.

include activities such as health and wellness, with a court skills academy for basketball and volleyball, body mechanics for training with purpose and the art of healthy living. Personal

development offerings will include polished and poised style and etiquette, cybersecurity and social media, and your future after high school. Music and arts presentations will include an

RICK STEVES' EUROPE

Warsaw: A resilient spirit carved by a harsh history

very November 11, local Poles gather in front of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Warsaw’s Piłsudski Square to honor Poland’s Independence Day. The ceremony itself is filled with somber commemorations and highly-structured military salutes – reminders of the country’s harsh history, and enduring spirit of resilience. Poland’s capital, Warsaw, is a reminder of this as well. Along with hosting the country’s seat of government, Warsaw is Poland’s cosmopolitan business hub. Travelers seeking Old World quaintness should head for Kraków; but for today’s Poland, visit Warsaw. It’s a 21 st-century city with a dark 20 thcentury story. In fact, most of Warsaw's past has been hard. Since becoming Poland’s capital in 1596, it has seen wave after wave of foreign rulers and invasions – and currently, it’s going through a demographic shift, as hundreds of thousands of Ukrainian refugees

are becoming citizens. It’s a big talking point in modern Warsaw, and yet another fascinating chapter in the city’s history. Warsaw’s darkest days came during the Nazi occupation of World War II. First, its Jewish residents were forced into a tiny ghetto. They rose up...and were slaughtered. Then, its Polish residents rose up...and were slaughtered. In retaliation, Hitler ordered the block-byblock destruction of the city. As the smoke cleared and the Nazis retreated, the Soviets marched in and claimed the pile of rubble that was once Warsaw. It would be another 45 years before the Soviets would leave and the Poles could freely govern their capital and their country. After the war, the Poles almost gave up on re-creating old Warsaw, but ultimately they decided to rebuild, constructing a city of contrasts. Now, painstakingly restored medieval lanes border pedestrianfriendly parks and sleek skyscrapers. Now, painstakingly

Poland’s last king built huge, idyllic Łazienki Park as a summer residence and place for his citizens to relax – and today, Poles still come here to do just that. (Addie Mannan, Rick Steves’ Europe).

restored medieval lanes border pedestrian-friendly parks and sleek skyscrapers— a jumbled aesthetic that reflects the city’s hard history. Today’s Warsaw is safer, wealthier, and happier than ever. You’ll encounter stylishly dressed locals, sophisticated shopping boulevards, and thoughtful museums covering World War II, Jewish history, hometown composer Frédéric Chopin, and Polish art. The city has two historic districts: the 13th-century Old Town and the 15th-century New Town. Both are nearly complete 20th-century reconstructions, right down to the higgledypiggledy charm of the colorful buildings. The countless restaurants in the historic district provide a good introduction to Polish cuisine – and the national drink, vodka. Many traditional

dishes – herring, cold cuts, pickles, steak tartare – pair naturally with chilled vodka. Poles don’t sip their vodka. It’s a bottoms-up beverage. (“That way it only stings once.”) For me, the pleasure of Warsaw is just connecting with its big-city people, who are as warm and charming as smalltown folk. Poles love Americans – they think of us as big brothers and sisters from across the Atlantic. When the communist government gave the people a small shot at representative government in 1989, the “get out the vote” poster showed Gary Cooper from High Noon– holding not a gun, but a voting card. Remnants of Warsaw’s earlier magnificence show up in huge, idyllic Łazienki Park. It’s sprinkled with Neoclassical buildings, peacocks, and young Poles in love. Poland’s very last king built the

artistry workshop, face painting and line dancing. According to the commission, participation in the Dr. Martin Luther King Day March has grown considerably over the years and is now attended by a thousand patrons from all over the area, as well as hundreds who participate as entries with churches, civic groups, businesses and community groups. “Our one-mile route through Ocala is lined from start to finish with enthusiastic and ethnically diverse crowds, enjoying the entertainment and sharing the experience while honoring a great American hero. Opportunities abound to sell food, refreshments, souvenirs and other merchandise and the costs to participate are minimal at the end of the march,” the news release noted. To learn more about the overall event, call Paula Leahmon at (352) 426-8028. Photos by Bruce Ackerman Ocala Gazette

park in the 18th century for his summer residence and as a place for his citizens to relax. A monument to Chopin, Poland’s great Romantic composer and favorite son, graces the park’s rose garden. Even though Chopin left Warsaw for Paris, his final wish was to have his heart brought back to his native Poland. And so it was, after his death in 1849. It now lies buried in a pillar in Warsaw’s Holy Cross Church (the rest of him is interred at Paris’s Père Lachaise Cemetery). Locals still proudly celebrate the composer’s music. On Sundays, huge crowds fill Łazienki Park for Chopin concerts that take place in front of his statue – and smaller odes to the composer pop up all across town. When I was last in Warsaw, I went to an intimate, salon-style concert hosted at a hotel. The pianist, seated at a baby grand under a lovingly lit portrait of Chopin, closed his eyes as if to channel all his heart into his fingers flying across the keys. I, along with the rest of the music lovers in attendance, swooned. I was reminded how, before recorded music was even imaginable, lovers of culture all over Europe would gather for concerts just like this, where musicians would share the great music of the day. And it felt so appropriate that Chopin is still celebrated by resilient, cultureloving Poles right here in the middle of Warsaw, a city that refuses to die.

December 26 - January 1, 2026 | OCALA GAZETTE

LOCAL CALENDAR LISTINGS

Government DEC. 29, JAN. 5, 12, 19 AND 26

Community DEC. 19-31

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.

JAN. 6 AND 20

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

JAN. 10-19

Trains at the Holidays

CF Webber Gallery, 3001 SW College Road, Ocala See times below The free family favorite is brought to life by the Ocala Model Railroaders’ Historic Preservation Society. The elaborate network of moving model trains will feature miniature towns, countryside scenes and recognizable local landmarks. Trains at the Holidays will be on view 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 19 through Dec. 31, with Christmas Eve hours of noon to 3 p.m. on Dec. 24. The gallery will be closed on Christmas Day. For more information, visit cf.edu/webber or call (352) 854-2322, ext. 1664.

JAN. 8-FEB. 26

Free diabetes classes

Ocala City Council

Ocala City Hall, 110 SE Watula Ave., Ocala 4pm The council meets each first and third Tuesday of the month. Agendas and minutes are available at ocala.legistar.com/calendar.aspx

Belleview City Commission

Belleview City Hall, 5343 SE Abshier Blvd., Belleview 6pm The commission meets the first and third Tuesday of the month. Agendas, minutes and video available at belleviewfl.org/200/agendas-minutes

JAN. 13 AND 27

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

JAN. 14

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

Forest Public Library, 905 S Highway 314A, Ocklawaha 10am to noon The Marion County Hospital District is hosting a free, eight-week Diabetes Self-Management Series for those age 18 and older who are prediabetic, diabetic or who supports someone with diabetes. Participants will engage in the Diabetes Education Empowerment Program (DEEP) and gain knowledge and skills to better manage diabetes, including guidance on improving eating habits, increasing physical activity, monitoring body numbers and preventing complications associated with diabetes. For more information or to register, call (352) 619-4303 or email amp@mchdt.org.

THROUGH JAN. 13

5-Plus-1 Wellness Promo

The Joint Chiropractic, 2701 SW College Road, Ocala Hours vary For a short time only, you can buy five months of routine chiropractic care and get one month free. The offer includes up to four visits per month, no insurance needed, walk-ins welcome and affordable, flexible care for all lifestyles. Get details at thejoint. com/florida/ocala/ocala-27108

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. events

Various locations and times The Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemorative Commission, Inc. will again host a number of events in recognition of the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. This year’s activities have a theme of “Mission Possible II – Uniting the Nation; Building a Future.” • Jan. 10: Food Drive, 9 a.m., 2nd Bethlehem Association NW 4th Ave. Ocala; contact Ire Bethea at (352) 208-0819 or Rev. Eric Cummings at (352) 804-6871 • Jan. 17: Prayer Breakfast, 9 a.m., Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place,1821 NW 21st Ave. Ocala; contact Loretta Jenkins at (352) 351-0824 or Paula Leahmon at (352)426-8028 • Jan. 17: Wreath Ceremony, noon, Martin Luther King Jr. Park 500 SW MLK Jr. Ave., Ocala; contact Cassandra Boston at (352) 209-2973 • Jan. 17: Youth Day, 1 p.m., Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place, 1821 NW 21st. Ave. Ocala; contact Dwanette Dilworth at (352) 207-6036 or Trellis Hagin at (386) 451-1973 • Jan 18: Ecumenical Service, 6 p.m., New St. John Missionary Baptist Church, 2251 NW 2nd St., Ocala • Jan. 19: MLK March, 8 a.m. lineup in downtown Ocala, march steps off at 9 a.m. and goes to Webb Field at the Martin Luther King Recreation Complex, 1501 W. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala; transportation will be available at 7 a.m. from the racquetball court at the complex; contact Ire Bethea at (352) 208-0819 • Jan 19: Day in the Park, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Webb Field; for activities/vendors, contact Dwanette Dilworth at (352) 207-6036, for stage entertainment, contact TeSha Jackson at (352) 426-0861

JAN. 16

TLC Ribbon Cutting

Transitions Life Center, 3360 NW Gainesville Road, Ocala 10am The center will celebrate a 6,000-square-foot campus expansion. Guests are invited to enjoy refreshments, with an option of taking a guided tour of the new facility. To learn more, call (352) 877-8999 or visit tlcocala.org

Arts DEC. 27

Dueling Pianos: Holiday Edition

NOMA Black Box, Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE Ninth St., Ocala 6pm Grab a seat at a café table and get into the festive spirit with holiday dueling pianos, cocktails and an evening of fun with friends. Enjoy sing-along classics of soft rock, pop and your favorite holiday hits spanning the decades. Learn more at reillyartscenter.com

Reilly After Hours presents: Dueling Pianos Uncensored Holiday Edition

NOMA Black Box, Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE Ninth St., Ocala 9pm Experience an electrifying night of holiday musical mayhem with late-night dueling pianos. Hit the dance floor as pianists mix unpredictable mash-ups with your favorite festive tunes, all while cocktail servers keep the drinks flowing. Get ready for laughter, outrageous requests and a high-energy, adults-only atmosphere. Get tickets at reillyartscenter.com

JAN. 3

Free First Saturday + Film Screening

Appleton Museum of Art, 4333 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala 10am-5pm At 11am and 2p., see a screening of “The Trip to Italy.” Equally hilarious and insightful, the film melds the crackling chemistry between Coogan and Brydon to create a brilliantly comic rumination on the nuances of friendship and the juggling of family and career. Free as part of Free First Saturday; no reservations needed. Learn more at appletonmuseum.org

and Alex Mitchell as Garth Brooks. All proceeds benefit Habitat for Humanity of Marion County. To learn more, go to csculturalcenter. com/events/elvis-the-legends-of-country

JAN. 9

Shayna Steele

Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE Ninth St., Ocala 7:30pm The vocalist is known for her work with Snarky Puppy, Moby, Rihanna, Kelly Clarkson and more. With her new album “Watch Me Fly,” she brings a dynamic blend of soul, blues, gospel, retro R&B and jazz. This special concert is part of the Reilly Arts Center’s 10Year Celebration Series, honoring a decade of bringing world-class performances to the Ocala community. The Celebration Series is sponsored by Angie Lewis State Farm. Find concert details at reillyartscenter.com

25 Years of Creativity: Horse Fever Artists Now

Brick City Center for the Arts, 23 S Broadway St., Ocala 5-7pm The Marion Cultural Alliance presents a special exhibition honoring the artists whose creativity helped shape Ocala’s most iconic public art project. From the original herd to later generations, Horse Fever has become a beloved symbol of community spirit, collaboration and artistic excellence. This commemorative exhibit launches MCA’s 25th Anniversary Year, celebrating 25 years of supporting artists, advancing creativity and enriching Ocala’s cultural landscape. MCA will be unveiling its new 25th Anniversary Horse Fever sculpture, by equine artist Sharon Crute. Raffle tickets will be available at The Brick throughout the year. Raffle winner(s) will be announced in November 2026 during MCA’s annual Applaud the Arts. To learn more, go to mcaocala.org.

JAN. 10

Reilly Noir Series: Nick DeCarlis Quartet Presents: Themes From Movies (real & imaginary) NOMA Black Box, Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE Ninth St., Ocala 7:30pm Experience a unique blend of jazz standards and inventive “imaginary” originals from Nick DeCarlis’s retro-inspired album “Themes From Imaginary Movies.” Nick and his quartet bring classic film music to life, both real and made-up, inviting you to listen, imagine and decide which tunes came from actual movies and which sprang purely from creativity. Learn more at reillyartscenter.com

JAN. 11

35th Annual Young Artist Competition: Honors Recital

Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE Ninth St., Ocala 3pm Special recital showcasing the finalists from the 35th annual Young Artist Competition. These exceptional junior and senior musicians will perform their concerto selections live with a pianist as they compete for the chance to appear as soloists with the Ocala Symphony at “To Spring!” on March 21–22. Winners will be announced immediately following the performance. Learn more at reillyartscenter.com Cote Deonath will star as Elvis in Ocala on Jan. 8, the King’s birthday. [Photo courtesy fb.com/CoteUltimateETA/photos]

JAN.8

Elvis & The Legends of Country

Circle Square Cultural Center, 8395 SW 80th St., Ocala 6:30pm Celebrate the King’s birthday with a tribute to Elvis Presley and some of the icons in country music history. Starring Cote Deonath as Elvis, Samantha Chambliss as Dolly Parton, Michael Collier as Johnny Cash

THROUGH JAN.11

“A Dickens Christmas: The Urban Family’s Holiday Exhibition” CF Appleton Museum of Art, 4333 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala The family of Dr. Paul and Joyce Urban shares a portion of their Christmas collection each holiday season. Visitors can enjoy decorated themed trees, the Dickens Village, an extensive nutcracker collection, handmade Santas from around the world and more. For more information, call (352) 291-4455 or go to appletonmuseum.org

Victoria Billig, the assistant director, talks about a wide variety of Nutcrackers on display in the “A Dickens Christmas: The Urban Family’s Holiday Exhibition” at the Appleton Museum of Art in Ocala on Nov. 12, 2024. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette file photo

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 FordSmith’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

FEB. 7

Brick City Bluegrass Festival (early bird tix on sale now) Citizens’ Circle, 151 SE Osceola Ave., Ocala 1-7pm The event will include performances by nationally recognized and local bluegrass artists, food trucks and beverage vendors. Bring lawn chairs or blankets. Get details at ocalafl.gov/brickcitycluegrass

Your Business Could Be Here!

Email marketing@ocalagazette.com

for more information

December 26 - January 1, 2026 | OCALA GAZETTE

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.

Week of December 26th thru January 1st 2025 ARIES

March 21-April 20

Strange things are happening, Aries. It may be better to go with the flow right now. You might like the change that ensues, and the change in pace could be a positive.

Better days are ahead, Taurus. It’s just a matter of having a little patience and waiting a little longer for things to settle down. Start a new project to take your mind off things.

Scorpio, there are so many things going on right now but you can still function effectively. The pace might be hectic right now, but things will calm down soon enough.

May 22-June 21

Make the most of time spent with friends and family this week, Gemini. You may need to step away for a little while, so cherish this time you get to spend with those you love.

CANCER

June 22-July 22

Cancer, someone special is able to take a peek into your inner thoughts this week. Their ability to see you so personally could reinforce your outlook.

LEO

July 23-August 23

You might feel a bit melancholic as the holiday season nears its end, Leo. It’s understandable based on how much has been going on. Maintain a strong social calendar.

VIRGO

August 24- September 22

Virgo, generosity is an admirable trait, and now is a good time to indulge your love of helping others. Make a concerted effort to pitch in where your assistance is necessary.

37 39 40 41 42 45 47 49 50 51 52 53 57 58 59 61 62 63

Publicist's recommendation, perhaps Unmarried person's last words Subtitle intro Dig a lot Pretend to be Bardly before Some pods Sect that adheres to Ordnung Piece of firewood Style that includes designer yoga pants More than loathe "Auld Lang __" Stat for a slugger "Seems highly likely" "Keep in touch!" Sushi wrapper Back "Speaking of which," briefly MSNBC host Melber Chases a toddler, say "Catch my drift?" Onetime breakfast option marketed by a 1980s TV icon "There it is!" "__ side are you on?" Farm layers Neptune's domain Tree with serrated leaves Langoustine soup Red Delicious kin Dominic of "The Crown" "Casablanca" actor Peter Spot for a much-needed drink, perhaps "__ directed" Cul-de-__ Amusingly unconventional "Behold!" of old __ out a living App annoyances Pallid Photoreceptor cell

ANSWERS TO PUZZLES ON PAGE B9

When one door closes, another door opens, Libra. Look at all of the positive things in your life and embrace the great changes that are coming your way. This is an exciting time for you.

SCORPIO

GEMINI

3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 17 19 23 25 26 27 28 29 30 34 35

September 23October 23

TAURUS

April 21-May 21

Across 1 Yoda trainee 5 Superhero accessory 9 Bar food? 14 Got rid of 15 Smell 16 Overacts 18 No matter the outcome 20 San Francisco-to-Salt Lake City interstate 21 Pig's digs 22 Make yawn 23 Fingers 24 Actor Cariou 25 Pairing at a cocktail party 28 Nevada whose mystery novels are set in national parks 31 Udon alternative 32 Trivial objection 33 Irrefutable statement 36 Greens over 38 Presidential warm-weather getaway 43 Stew 44 Chestnut horse 45 "And there you go!" 46 Photoreceptor cell 48 Jeans line 49 Peripheral with a dongle 54 Spanish "that" 55 Minecraft material 56 "¿Qué __?" 57 One in a zillion? 60 Shape on a bingo card 62 Snappy remark, and a feature of four long answers in this puzzle 64 Toyota full-size pickup 65 Diva's time to shine 66 At some point in the past 67 Unsuccessful Ford 68 Costner's "The Untouchables" role 69 Went green? Down 1 Spielberg thriller set on Amity Island 2 Stage direction

LIBRA

October 24November 22

SAGITTARIUS

November 23 -December 21

A relationship is blooming, Sagittarius, and you’re not sure how you feel about it just yet. Take a few more weeks to work through all of your feelings.

CAPRICORN

December 22January 20

You have an eye for deals, Capricorn. Even though you have been spending a lot this past month, you can’t resist a discount on some post-holiday sales.

AQUARIUS

January 21-February 18

Take a firm hold of your finances for the next few weeks, Aquarius. Overspending could complicate an important relationship if you’re not careful. Curb any purchases for a few days.

PISCES

February 19-March 20

You are not sure how to harness your artistic energy this week, Pisces. You might take a class or engage in a hobby that interests you. Redesigning a room in a home also might be an idea.

December 26 - January 1, 2026 | OCALA GAZETTE Public Notice

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION IN RE: ESTATE OF

Public Notice

IN THE COUNTY COURT FOR THE IN THE CIRCUIT FIFTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT COURT FOR IN AND FOR MARION COUNTY, FLOR- MARION COUNTY, IDA FLORIDA SHARON LYNN PITTS File No. 2025-CP-3026 CIVIL DIVISION a/k/a LYNN PITTS, PROBATE ON TOP OF THE WORLD (CENTRAL) IN RE: ESTATE OF Division PROBATE DIVISION OWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC., Plaintiff, Deceased. TIMOTHY L. SMITH, File No. vs. JR. 25CP003009 Case No. 25CC001710 NOTICE TO CREDITORS FRANK HYER JR., PATTY SCHMITZ, and Deceased. Division UNKNOWN TENANT(S), Probate The administration of the Estate of SHARON LYNN PITTS a/k/a LYNN PITTS, deceased, Defendants. whose date of death was January 9, 2025, is pending in the Circuit Court for Marion / County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 110 NW 1st Ave. Ocala, Florida NOTICE OF ACTION NOTICE TO CREDITORS 34475. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal TO: FRANK HYER JR. representative's attorney are set forth below. YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action to The administration of the estate of All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against enforce and foreclosure a lien on the TIMOTHY L. SMITH JR., deceased, decedent's estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their following property in Marion County, whose date of death was November 21, claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME Florida: 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF THE PORTION OF TRACT Y IN SECTION for MARION County, Florida, Probate SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. 24, TOWNSHIP 16 SOUTH, RANGE 20 Division, the address of which is 110 The personal representative has no duty to discover whether any property held at the EAST, MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA, NW 1 st Ave., Ocala, Florida 34475. time of the decedent's death by the decedent or the decedent's surviving spouse is AS SHOWN ON TH£ PLAT OF CIRCLE The name and address of the personal property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death SQUARE WOODS, AS RECORDED IN representative are: Bradley Waterman , Act as described in ss. 732.216-732.228, Florida Statutes, applies, or may apply, unless PLAT BOOK P, PAGES 30 THROUGH 7715 Greenbrier Circle, Port Saint Lucie, a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under s. 732.2211, Florida Statutes. 103, INCLUSIVE, OF THE PUBLIC FL 34986. The name and address of the All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against RECORDS OP MARION COUNTY, personal representative’s attorney are set decedent's estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE FLORIDA. forth below. DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. WHICH IS 8580-E S.W. 92ND PLACE, ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA OCALA, MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA. All creditors of the decedent and other STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. THE SPECIFIC PARCEL OF REAL persons having claims or demands NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED ESTATE WHICH· IS THE SUBJECT OF against the decedent’s estate on whom a TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT'S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. THIS INSTRUMENT AND WHICH IS copy of this notice is required to be served The date of first publication of this notice is September 26, 2025. THE ABOVE MENTIONED INDIVIDUAL must file their claims with this court ON DWELLING UNIT, IS NEITHER OR BEFORE THE LATER OF A DATE Personal Attorney for Personal LOCATED NOR REFERENCED IN PLAT THAT IS 3 MONTHS AFTER THE FIRST Representative: Representative: BOOK P, PAGES 30 THROUGH 103, PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 INCLUSIVE OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS DAYS AFTER YOU RECEIVE A COPY OF OF MARION COUNTY, RATHER THIS NOTICE. DWELLING B MAY BE POUND AND LOCATED IN THE O.R BOOK 1661, All other creditors of the decedent SAMANTHA SHEALY RAUBA, ESQ. GLEN DAVID PITTS PAGE 1553-1556 ALL OF THE PUBLIC and other persons who have claims or Attorney Personal RECORDS OP MARION COUNTY, demands against the decedent’s estate, Florida Bar Number: 59503 Representative including unmatured, contingent, or FLORIDA. McGraw, Rauba & Mutarelli 6027 US HWY 41 S. PARCEL ID NO.: 3530-2140-05 unliquidated claims, must file their claims P.O. Box 4440 Sycamore, Georgia with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS (“Property”) Ocala, FL 34478 31015 Property Address: 8580 Southwest AFTER THE DATE OF the first publication Telephone: (352) 789-6520 92nd Place, Unit E, Ocala, Florida 34481 of this notice . Fax: (352) 789-6570 A Lawsuit has been filed against you E-Mail: Samantha@LawMRM.com in Marion County Court, ON TOP OF A personal representative or curator has Secondary E-Mail: Gina@LawMRM. THE WORLD (CENTRAL) OWNERS no duty to discover whether any property com ASSOCIATION, INC . v. FRANK HYER held at the time of the decedent’s death JR., PATTY SCHMITZ, and UNKNOWN by the decedent or the decedent’s TENANT(S) , and you are required to surviving spouse is property to which the serve a copy of your written defenses, Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Notice of Rule Making if any, on or before 30 days after the Property Rights at Death Act as described first publication of this Notice of Action, in Florida Statutes Sections 732.216The School Board of Marion County, Florida NAME OF AGENCY: on Rabin Parker Gurley, P.A., Plaintiff’s 732.228, applies, or may apply, unless a RULE TITLE: Instructional Materials Attorney, whose address is 2653 written demand is made by a creditor as RULE NO.: Board Policy 2521 McCormick Drive, Clearwater, Florida specified under Florida Statutes Section SUMMARY: Schedule a public hearing to be held on Tuesday, January 27, 2025, to 33759, and file the original with this Court 732.2211. approve the 2025-2026 Instructional Material Titles for Adoption. Schedule an additional either before service on Plaintiff’s attorney Public Hearing to be held on Tuesday, March 4, 2026, with a Hearing Officer present, if or immediately thereafter; otherwise a All claims not filed within the periods set default will be entered against you for the forth in Florida Statutes section 733.702 needed. will be forever barred . relief demanded in the Complaint. SUMMARY OF RULE: Revisions align policy with current statutes governing instruc- This notice shall be published once each THE TIME week for two consecutive weeks in The NOTWITHSTANDING tional materials. PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY Ocala Gazette. SUMMARY OF STATEMENT OF ESTIMATED REGULATORY COST: There are no WITNESS my hand and the seal of CLAIM FILED two (2) years OR MORE this Court on this ___22___ day of after the decedent’s date of death IS additional costs required other than those of advertising. BARRED . December__ 2025. If you are a person with a disability SPECIFIC AUTHORITY: 1001.41, 1001.42, Fla. Stats. (2025). Law(s) Implemented: 1003.41, 1006.28, 1006.283, 1006.29, 1006.30, 1006.31, who needs an accommodation in The date of first publication of this notice order to participate in this proceeding, is: December 26, 2025. 1006.32, 1006.34, 1006.36, 1006.38, 1006.40, 1006.41, 1006.42, Fla. Stats. (2025). you are entitled, at no cost to you, to Two (2) public hearings for textbook adoptions will be scheduled at the following the provision of certain assistance. Please contact the Public Information /s/ James M. Flick School Board meeting: Department, Marion County James M. Flick Government Center, 601 SE 25th Ave., Florida Bar Number: 91075 5:30 p.m. TIME: Ocala, FL 34471, Phone (352) 401-6710 Christian Bonta PLACE: Browne Greaton Cole Auditorium, 1614 E. Ft. King Street, Ocala, Florida (voice), 352-438-2300 (voice) 711 for Florida Bar Number: 1010347 34471 the hearing impaired. Contact should WALKER | FLICK January 27, 2026, and March 4, 2026 if needed. DATE: be initiated at least seven days before 3700 S Conway Rd, Ste 212 FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION REGARDING THE RECOMMENDED TITLES FOR the scheduled court appearance, Orlando, FL 32812 or immediately upon receiving this Telephone: (407) 745-0609 ADOPTION, CONTACT: notification if the time before the Primary E-Mail: scheduled appearance is less than james@thefloridalawyers.com Braegan Hughes, Coordinator, Media-Related Instructional Services christian@thefloridalawyers.com seven days. Marion County Public Schools Secondary E-Mails: RABIN PARKER GURLEY, P.A. PO Box 670 kflick@thefloridalawyers.com 2653 McCormick Drive Ocala, FL 34478 service@thefloridalawyers.com Clearwater, Florida 33759 Counsel for Personal Representative Telephone: (727)475-5535 Counsel for Plaintiff Extra Space Storage will hold a public auction to sell personal property described below For Electronic Service: Pleadings@ belonging to those individuals listed below at the location indicated: RPGLaw.com NOTICE OF FORFEITURE PROCEED[1] Gregory C. Harrell, Clerk of Court INGS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 16679 S. US Highway 301 Summerfield FL, 34491 on January 13th 2026 @ 12pm BY: FIFTHJUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR DEPUTY CLERK MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA IN RE: Francisco Almeida Copies Furnished to : FORFEITURE OF: Case Number: 2025generator, power tools, dresser, table saw Rabin Parker Gurley, P.A. CA-2317 DIGITAL CURRENCIES CON2653 McCormick Drive TAINED WITHIN BINANCE ACCOUNTS Francisco Almeida Clearwater, Florida 33759 BELONGING TO SALMAN SHAHbedroom furniture, mattress set, tool chests, kitchen appliances, framed door FRANK HYER JR. BAZ TO WIT: 320,443.70 TETHERUS 8580 Southwest 92nd Place (USDT), 5.997762 ETHEREUM (ETH), Patty Dutcher Unit E AND 1,498.42 DOT Judge: Herndon ALL totes, Christmas decor, toiletries Ocala, Florida 34481 PERSONS who claim an interest in the Kevin Manning household furniture, shelving and wall artwork The auction will be listed and advertised on www.storagetreasures.com. Purchases must be made with cash only and paid at the above referenced facility in order to complete the transaction. Extra Space Storage may refuse any bid and may rescind any purchase up until the winning bidder takes possession of the personal property.

Marion Soil & Water Conservation District will hold regular board meetings to discuss District business on the following days in 2026: 1/12; 2/9; 3/9; 4/13; 5/11; 6/8; 7/13; 8/10; 9/14; 10/12; 11/9, and 12/14. Monthly meetings are scheduled at 9:30 AM, located at 2710 E Silver Springs Blvd, Ocala, FL 34470. Residents who wish to receive notices by (e)mail, an agenda, and/or accommodations, please contact the District at 352.438.2475.

Public Notice IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA IN RE: FORFEITURE OF: Case Number: 2025-CA-1494 One (1) 2017 Toyota Camry Judge: Herndon VIN: 4T1BF1KXHU807096 NOTICE OF ACTION TO: Eugene Clyde Williams, Jr. Last known Address: 19142 NW 164th Avenue, High Springs, FL 32643 YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that a forfeiture action has been filed against the above-described vehicle by the City of Ocala. 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 23rd day of July, 2025, on Kristi Van Vleet, Assistant City Attorney, City of Ocala, 110 SE 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 9th day of December 2025. The Honorable Gregory C. Harrell Clerk of Court Deputy Clerk Copies furnished: Kristi Van Vleet, Esquire Eugene Clyde Williams, Jr., pro se

Public Notice 1 st Add Run 12/26/2025 2 nd Add Run 01/02/2026 Extra Space Storage will hold a public auction to sell personal property described below belonging to those individuals listed below at the location indicated: 4620 SW College Rd Ocala, Fl 34474 on January 13, 2026, at 12:00 pm Christine Hamilton- Tote, Clothes, Comforter Milagros Garmendiz- Shoes, Totes, Clothing, Books Jasmine Gordon- kid's clothes, toys, Shoes, Travel cups, Pictures, Pillows The auction will be listed and advertised on www.storagetreasures.co m. Purchases must be made with cash only and paid at the above referenced facility in order to complete the transaction. Extra Space Storage may refuse any bid and may rescind any purchase until the winning bidder takes possession of the personal property.

Public Notice

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA. IN RE: THE ESTATE OF SARA H. ALDERMAN, Deceased. CASE NO: 2025-CP-3018 NOTICE TO CREDITORS The name of the decedent, the designation of the court in which the administration of this estate is pending, and the file number are indicated above. The address of the court is 110 N.W. 1st Avenue, Ocala, FL 34475. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are indicated below. If you have been served with a copy of this notice and you have any claim or demand against the decedent’s estate, even if that claim is unmatured, contingent or unliquidated, you must file your claim with the court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF A DATE THAT IS 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER YOU RECEIVE A COPY OF THIS NOTICE. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons who have claims or demands against the decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, must file their claims with the court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT SO FILED WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. EVEN IF A CLAIM IS NOT BARRED BY THE LIMITATIONS DESCRIBED ABOVE, ALL CLAIMS WHICH HAVE NOT BEEN FILED WILL BE BARRED TWO YEARS AFTER DECEDENT’S DEATH. The date of death of the decedent is: November 11, 2025. The date of first publication of this Notice is December 26, 2025. The personal representative or curator has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent’s death by the decedent, or the decedent’s surviving spouse, is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act, as described in sections 732.216 – 732.228 F.S., applies, or may apply unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under section 732.2211, F.S.

Case No.: 2025-2826-CP IN RE: THE ESTATE OF STEPHEN THOMAS WEAVER, Deceased. / NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of STEPHEN THOMAS WEAVER, deceased, whose date of death was October 8, 2025, is pending in the Circuit Court for Marion County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 110 Northwest First Avenue, Ocala, Florida 34475. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. The personal representative has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent’s death by the decedent or the decedent’s surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in sections 732.216-732.228, Florida Statutes, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under section 732.2211, Florida Statutes. All creditors of the decedent, and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF THREE (3) MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR THIRTY (30) DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN THREE (3) MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS AND DEMANDS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of the first publication of this Notice is December 19, 2025 Personal Representative: DAVID ALAN WEAVER 4982 Planters Way Flowery Branch, GA 30542 Attorney for Personal Representative: JANET W. BEHNKE Florida Bar No. 135969 Janet W. Behnke, P.A. 500 NE 8 th Avenue Ocala, FL 34470 Phone: (352) 732-6464 janet@behnkelaw.net

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA,PROBATE DIVISION, Case #25CP001748AX ESTATE OF TERESA C. HANKEY The administration of the estate of TERESA C. HANKEY, deceased, whose date of death was January 1, 2025, is pending in the Circuit Court for Marion County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 110 NW 1st Ave. Ocala, Florida 34475. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent's estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. The personal representative has no duty following property: DIGITAL CURREN- to discover whether any property held at CIES CONTAINED WITHIN BINANCE the time of the decedent's death by the NOTICE OF ACTION ACCOUNTS BELONGING TO SAL- decedent or the decedent's surviving BEFORE THE DIVISION OF PARI- MAN SHAHBAZ TO WIT: 320,443.70 spouse is property to which the Florida MUTUEL WAGERING TETHERUS (USDT), 5.997762 ETHERE- Uniform Disposition of Community IN RE: Sections 550.0251(6) , Florida UM (ETH), AND 1,498.42 DOT which was Property Rights at Death Act as described Statutes. seized because said proper[1]ty is alleged in ss. 732.216-732.228, Florida Statutes, PAUL CLIFFORD BARROW-COLON to be contraband as defined by Sections applies, or may apply, unless a written 2601 SW 10th Street 932.701 (2)(a)(1-6), Florida Statutes, by demand is made by a creditor as specified Apt. 136 the City of Ocala, Division of Ocala Po- under s. 732.2211, Florida Statutes. The Ocala, Florida 34471 lice Department, on or about September written demand must be filed with the CASE NO.: 2025-026374 30, 2025, in Marion County, Florida. Any clerk. LICENSE NO.: N/A owner, entity, bona fide lienholder, or per- All other creditors of the decedent and The Florida Gaming Control Commission son in possession of the property when other persons having claims or demands has filed an Administrative Complaint seized has the right to request an adver- against decedent's estate must file their against you, a copy of which may be sarial preliminary hearing for a probable claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS obtained by contacting Ebonie Lanier, cause determination within twenty (20) AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST Administrative Assistant III, Office of the days from the date of receipt of notice, by PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. General Counsel, Florida Gaming Control providing such request to Kristi Van Vleet, ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN Commission, 4070 Esplanade Way, Suite Assistant City Attorney's Office, 110 S.E. THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN 250, Tallahassee, FL 32399, (850) 794- Watula Ave, Ocala, FL 34471, by certified FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 8072. mail return receipt requested. A complaint WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. THE TIME If no contact has been made by you for forfeiture has been filed in the above NOTWITHSTANDING PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY concerning the above by Friday, January styled court. CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR 23, 2026, the matter of the Administrative MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT'S DATE Complaint will be presented to the Florida OF DEATH IS BARRED. Gaming Control Commission at the next NOTICE OF A SCHOOL BOARD The date of first publication Dec. 19, 2025. public meeting for final agency action. ADMINISTRATIVE BRIEFING AND MONIQUE M. SADARANGANI, ESQ. In accordance with the Americans with WORK SESSION Monique M. Sadarangani, PLLC Disabilities Act, persons needing special accommodation to participate in this Notice is hereby given that the School Attorney for Personal Representative proceeding should contact the individual Board of Marion County, Florida, will meet Florida Bar No. 105534 or agency sending notice no later than in a work session on January 8, 2026, at 66 West Flagler Street, Suite 900 seven days prior to the proceeding at 9:00 a.m. The meeting will be held at the Miami, Florida 33130 the address given on notice. Telephone: Browne Greaton Cole Auditorium, 1614 E. Telephone: (786) 638-8777 (850) 257- 6097; 1-800-955-8771 (TDD) Ft. King Street, Ocala, Florida, 34471. An Facsimile: (786) 513-0713 or 1-800-955-8770 (v), via Florida Relay agenda will be published seven days prior monique@estateandfamilylawyer.com ANNE MCCARTHY Service. to the meeting and may be obtained at the Personal Representative Administration Office between the hours 159 Levin Road of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. The agenda is Rockland, MA 02370 also available from a link on the District’s website: www.marionschools.net.

Attorney for Personal Representative: JOSHUA L. MOSES Richard & Moses, LLC Florida Bar No. 119304 226 NE Sanchez Avenue Ocala, FL 34470 (352) 369-1300 Primary Email: Josh@RMProbate.com Personal Representative: GAIL LECRANN 519 N.E. 36th Avenue Ocala, FL 34470 IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA IN RE: ESTATE OF LOIS J. STEINER Deceased. File No. 2025-CP-3067 Division Probate NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of LOIS J. STEINER, deceased, whose date of death was November 3, 2025, is pending in the Circuit Court for Marion County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 110 NW First Avenue, Ocala, Florida 34475. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative's attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent's estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. 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 has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent's death by the decedent or the decedent's surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss. 732.216732.228, Florida Statutes, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under s. 732.2211, Florida Statutes. The written demand must be filed with the clerk. ALL 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 December 26, 2025. Attorney for Personal Representative COLLEEN M. DURIS Florida Bar Number: 975140 500 NE 8th Avenue Ocala, FL 34470 Telephone: (352) 732-7020 E-Mail: service@ocalaelderlaw.com; angie@ocalaelderlaw.com Personal Representative: Marlise M. Hitchens 639 Ridgewood Drive Coshocton, Ohio 43812

NOTICE OF SPECIAL SCHOOL BOARD MEETING

Notice is hereby given that the School Board of Marion County, Florida, will meet on January 8, 2026, at 7:00 a.m., at the School Board Administration Office, Browne Greaton Cole Auditorium,1614 E. Ft. King Street, Ocala, Florida, 34471. .

December 26 - January 1, 2026 | OCALA GAZETTE

A DICKENS CHRISTMAS The Urban Family’s Holiday Exhibition On View Through January 11 Discover ornately decorated trees, the beloved Dickens Village miniature, an extensive nutcracker collection, handmade Santas from around the world, and more! On the first and second floors, enjoy 17 trees decorated by community organizations and businesses.

Appleton Museum, Artspace and Store Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday, noon-5 p.m. 4333 E. Silver Springs Blvd. Ocala, FL | AppletonMuseum.org

Animal Crackers

Broom Hilda

ANSWERS FOR PAGE B7 Sudoku

Middletons

Jumble

Gasoline Alley

Crossword

OUTDO LIGHT HOLLER SPRUCE

Answers: When their new air conditioning unit broke down so quickly, they — LOST THEIR COOL

B10

December 26 - January 1, 2026 | OCALA GAZETTE