Ocala Gazette | November 17 - November 23, 2023 by Magnolia Media Company

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VOLUME 4 ISSUE 46

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Marion County Hospital District hopes to improve first responders’ mental health

School district continues to wrestle with a shortage of bus drivers

By Jennifer Hunt Murty jennifer@ocalagazette.com

program designed to improve the mental health of Marion County first responders is slowly gaining traction among several area agencies more than a year after its inception. The Marion County Hospital District (MCHD) rolled out the Marion County First Responder Program during the summer of 2022 with the goal of “elevating your mental well-being to the gold standard,’’ according to program materials provided to the “Gazette.” “The First Responder Initiative is your go-to, data-driven mental wellness platform, offering specialized, comprehensive psychological support,’’ according to the materials. “Designed for those who protect us … and with 24/7 availability, our evidence-based approach ensures you and your family are not alone.” The Ocala Police Department was the first agency to utilize the service, and Police Chief Michael Balken, thanked the MCHD trustees earlier this year for the resource, acknowledging it has been beneficial not only for staffers but also for their spouses. The trustees budgeted $200,000 for the initiative in the first year, but the last financial reports show only $78,122 was used during that period. According to MCHD, to date, 37 people with OPD and 10 from Marion County Fire Rescue have used the service. “Please note how difficult it was initially to get individuals into therapy because of the stigma attached to it,” Joseph Hanratty, spokesperson for the MCHD, wrote in an email to the “Gazette.” MCHD indicated it had recently surveyed Ocala Fire Rescue, Marion County Fire Rescue, and OPD staff to “measure resiliency, depression, and other factors related to first responders with input from fire chiefs and the chief of police.” Ocala Fire Rescue and the Marion County Sheriff ’s Office told the “Gazette” they had just learned of See First, page A2

File photo: Deputy Chief of Marion County Fire Rescue Robert Graff, left, and Chief James Banta, right, listen during the Marion County Commission meeting at the McPherson Governmental Complex in Ocala on Tuesday, June 20 2023. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2023.

File photo: Old Marion District Schools school buses are shown at the Marion County Public Schools Northwest Transportation Bus Facility on Northwest Gainesville Road in Ocala on Wednesday, February 9, 2022. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2022.

By Lauren Morrish lauren@ocalagazette.com

s the current school year nears the halfway mark, Marion County Public Schools continues to face a shortage of bus drivers, a problem district officials say is leading to late student pickups and drop-offs while impacting some students’ grades as well as morale among the remaining drivers. According to MCPS spokesperson Kevin Christian, as of Nov. 6, the school district has 269 funded bus driver positions but only 240 drivers behind the wheel to handle 246 total routes. Current bus drivers have absorbed 13 open

routes and covered for 18 bus drivers who are out on family medical leave or Workers Compensation issues while simultaneously maintaining their own routes. In addition, there is an average of 10 daily driver absences from sick leave, vacation, and other unlisted reasons, Christian said. Since the first day of school, 12 drivers have left the district. Configuring a transportation system while the academic year is happening is contributing to student tardiness. The school board receives weekly transportation reports, and at the Nov. 2 meeting, Vice-Chair Nancy Thrower said the most recent report showed 84% of students were delivered to

school on time in the morning, and the on-time delivery rate is 64% in the afternoon. Board Member Eric Cummings said MCPS needs solutions right now. “I’m getting calls from parents concerning their kid’s grades because they’ve missed instruction time, valuable instruction time,” he said. “I don’t understand how we are going to justify a kid’s grades when we are the culprit in that.” The board approved adjusting some bell times, moving Marion Technical Institute’s start time from 7:45 a.m. to 9:15 a.m. and changing the Acceleration Academy’s start time to 9:25 a.m. to offset the late arrival and departure problem. These changes took

effect on Nov. 6. The Transportation Department plans to add two vans to help transport students, at the cost of $77,164. If approved at the board’s Nov. 14 meeting, funding will come out of the Capital Outlay budget.

Training new drivers

Since the first day of school on Aug. 10, 26 drivers have been trained: 19 regular drivers and seven temporary ones. There are two driver trainers who are teaching the new hires while also driving bus routes themselves. These trainers were approved for an increased work schedule from 220 to 260 days at a cost of $18,820, as the See Bus, page A2

Family of deceased inmate files wrongful death lawsuit against sheriff By Caroline Brauchler caroline@ocalagazette.com

he family of an inmate who died in custody at the Marion County Jail has filed a lawsuit against the Marion County Sheriff ’s Office, claiming that jail staff could have prevented the man’s death. Corey Merchant, 35, died shortly after getting into an altercation with another inmate, Eric Lutterloah, in the Gulf Pod of the jail. The lawsuit, filed by sister Krysti Merchant on the decedent’s behalf, specifically seeks action from Sheriff Billy Woods, Deputy Justin Kosinski, Deputy Joseph Miller and Sgt. Jerome Dukes. “Despite their knowledge that a violent attack was likely to occur in Gulf Pod and that Mr. Lutterloah was a violent offender who had been in an altercation a week earlier and was a threat to Cory Merchant, defendants did nothing to prevent Mr. Lutterloah’s attack on Cory

Merchant,” according to the lawsuit. The decedent’s siblings, Krysti Merchant and Tommie Vester Merchant, are entitled to seek damages for their brother’s death in custody under the Florida Wrongful Death Act. “We are aware of the allegations contained in this lawsuit and are looking forward to addressing them in a court of law,” MCSO general counsel Timothy McCourt said in a written statement. “Ultimately, the person responsible for Cory Merchant’s death is Eric Lutterloah, who we arrested for manslaughter in connection with Merchant’s death,” wrote McCourt. “It is disingenuous to blame our jail staff for failing to prevent Lutterloah from punching Merchant three times during an altercation that lasted a matter of seconds.” On jail security footage, at 1:09 a.m. on Nov. 7, 2021, Lutterloah can be seen approaching Merchant, verbally and physically provoking him, pushing

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him, and punching him in the head several times. When Lutterloah’s fist connected with Merchant’s jaw, the victim “appear(ed) to be knocked unconscious,” fell backward to the floor, hitting his head on the concrete and cracking his skull, according to the investigators’ description of the footage. Merchant, who was being held on charges of lewd battery and unlawful sexual activity with a minor, died on Nov. 13 from his injuries. Lutterloah, who was being held on charges of armed kidnapping and sexual battery, was later charged with manslaughter and will go to trial in April 2024, according to Marion County Clerk of Court records. Kosinski was the first jail employee to respond to the incident. After observing Merchant unconscious and unresponsive on the ground with blood coming from his ear, Kosinski requested staff and medical assistance, cleared the area and reviewed See Wrongful, page A3

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NOVEMBER 17 - NOVEMBER 23, 2023 | OCALA GAZETTE

Bus driver shortage Continued from page A1 training process is mandatory for new bus drivers. Interim Supervisor of Transportation Eric Ostanik said, “That way we can continue to train during the summer without having those gaps.’’ The district also is dealing with some growing pains with the new drivers. According to district records, there have been 10 accidents involving two new drivers and 16 incidents involving three new drivers since July 1, 2023. The school board on Nov. 14 will consider hiring a third trainer at a cost of $70,410 as well as approve signing bonuses of $350 per hire as reimbursement for the upfront costs candidates must pay to become drivers. This includes attaining a commercial driver’s license (CDL), taking proper course material, drug testing, fingerprinting, and more. The bonuses will be released to hires after driving a minimum of 30 days. The district is also asking inhouse for help in finding drivers. “HR has sent out an email to all MCPS staff to solicit interested personnel who hold a CDL, and the Transportation Department

will be screening all applicants for processing,” according to the department update. Ostanik said some staffers have already responded with interest, but implementation cannot happen until the school board approves the staffers’ ability to fill in as interim drivers. The MCPS Communications & Community Engagement department began a PR blitz on Oct. 25 to boost recruitment, explaining as an incentive that a CDL license can be obtained through MCPS. Operations & Emergency Management Executive Director Barbara Dobbins told the board members they can help by spreading word to the public about becoming a bus driver, adding, “This is a great place to work.” Dobbins also urged board members to go out into the district and show appreciation for the drivers. “We all want to work in a positive environment,’’ she said. “So, the more we can put our faces out there with a smile saying thank you, we are enhancing that environment for them.”

Retaining scarce drivers

During the Nov. 2 board meeting,

Thrower said, “What I continue to hear is lots of gratitude for the increases in salary for bus drivers and still a lot of dissatisfaction and unhappiness with student behavior on the bus.” The transportation update says the student-adult ratio is high, with the bus capacity at 60 to 70 students and one adult driver. “This ratio is not acceptable in the classroom and should not be acceptable on the bus,” the update reads. To help with disciplinary issues, Student Service Managers are expected to assist bus rides when needed. The new job description of Transportation Monitors was approved on Oct. 24 to help in a professional capacity. A proposed 50 monitors, at a cost of $372,003, is on the board’s Nov. 14 agenda. If approved, the hiring process will begin, and the new monitor hires will serve in the areas of highest demand. The total estimated cost from all of the transportation updates is $555,987. This includes the hiring of 50 bus monitors, the $350 signing bonuses, buying two new vans, the two trainers’ schedule increases, and adding a bus driver trainer.

First responder mental health Continued from page A1 the initiative this past month and look forward to learning more about the resource as it comes online for their departments. The MCHD trustees have increased the budget for this initiative for 2023-24 to $275,000 and brought on additional counselors from Ocala Consulting and Prevention to focus efforts primarily with local firefighters. MCHD CEO Curt Bromund and trustee Rich Bianculli recently took County Administrator Mounir Bouyounes, MCFR Chief James Banta, Marion County Fire Union President Rolin Boyd, and Chaplain

Steven Cantrell to Pensacola to participate in an Institute Of Human And Machine Cognition (IHMC) program that brought professionals from different scientific disciplines to explore ways to increase physical, mental, and psychological resilience among firefighters. Plans for this program were spurred early in the year after multiple suicides by MCFR firefighters. The IHMC session, budgeted at $75,000, was paid for by the MCHD. During the Nov. 13 hospital

district board meeting, Bianculli told trustees the 16 experts flew in for the program for “no charge” for the session. Through brainstorming, the attendees identified several areas that need further examination: nutrition, scheduling, hormonal imbalances and how the fire station is set up. Bianculli said he learned through the process that the greatest strain was on EMS workers. A follow-up report is expected. “Hopefully, we’ll be able to implement what they say,” Bianculli told the trustees. Which agencies will choose to implement the suggestions and how they will pay for them has yet to be determined.

“Please note how difficult it was initially to get individuals into therapy because of the stigma attached to it.” Joseph Hanratty

Honoring local veterans Staff report

warm sun and brilliant blue skies—along with hundreds of students from Marion County Public Schools— greeted those attending the Veterans Day Ceremony on Friday, Nov. 10, at the Ocala-Marion County Veterans Memorial Park in Ocala. The annual ceremony included a 21-gun and cannon salute, a vintage airplane flyover and patriotic tributes, such as spoken essays by students from Hammett Bowen Jr. Elementary, named for

Marion County’s only Medal of Honor recipient. The event marked the 17th year in a row that MCPS has presented the ceremony. The program included comments from Superintendent of Schools Diane Gullett, the pledge of allegiance led by students from Hillcrest School and music by students from Shady Hill Elementary School, Howard Middle School and Forest High School. The event marked the debut of the first-ever Joint Service Branch Color Guard, comprised of MCPS high school cadets enrolled in Junior

Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC) programs. They led the event and posted the colors. There also was a special precision drill team performance. The family of Army Specialist Robert E. Blair, a Lake Weir High School graduate who died in the Iraq war, presented a wreath honoring him and all local veterans who paid the ultimate sacrifice.

To view the event online, go to youtube.com/MarionCountyK12

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Our mission is to inform and uplift our readers by reporting on the events, issues and stories that shape Ocala with accuracy, fairness and passion. We also strive to serve as a forum where all voices can be heard and to chronicle our community’s history.

ocalagazette.com ©2023 Ocala Gazette, LLC Ocala Gazette (USPS# 25590) (ISSN 2771-1595) is published weekly by Magnolia Media Company, LLC, 1900 SE 18TH AVE STE 200, OCALA, FL 34471-8235. Periodicals postage paid at Ocala, FL. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Ocala Gazette, PO Box 188, Ocala, FL 34478.

HOLIDAY BOOK DRIVE LAUNCHES

By Caroline Brauchler caroline@ocalagazette.com

he Early Learning Coalition of Marion County, in partnership with Barnes & Noble, has launched its annual Holiday Book Drive to support children’s literacy. Until Dec. 8, you can visit the Barnes & Noble at 4414 SW College Road in Ocala to purchase and donate a children’s book. This year, the campaign has set a goal of 2,000 books to be donated and distributed to local children, according to a press release. To donate a book, visit the store’s location, choose a book and tell the cashier that you would like your purchase to be set aside for donation as part of the Holiday Book Drive.

“The ELCMC is especially in need of baby board books and hardcover classic picture and read-aloud books for toddlers and preschoolers,” according to the press release. Barnes & Noble puts on the drive at locations nationwide every year and has helped donate over 20 million books to local charities all around the country since its inception, according to the release. “It’s so important to get books into the hands of children. When children have access to books, they build vocabulary, pre-literacy skills and social-emotional bonds,” said ELCMC CEO Carrie Theall in the release. “The years before formal schooling starts are the most critical for exposure to books. This is when 90% of brain development happens.”

Share your news

Susan Dewey, ELCMC Programs Assistant, greets shoppers at Barnes & Noble Ocala.

The Ocala Gazette invites you to share your important news events with the community. Email your submissions to info@ocalagazette.com. Please include your name and contact information on the submission. • Letters to the editor: 200 words or less. • Honorable Mentions: 150 words or less about an individual or organization accomplishment in the business, education, community service, athletics or other area of endeavor. Attach a photo of the individual or group being honored, if available. • Upcoming events: Are you holding a charitable or community event that is open to the public? Include the organization hosting the event as well as the time, date and a brief description of the event, along with registration information or other important instructions. • News tips: Include whatever information you consider relevant.

NOVEMBER 17 - NOVEMBER 23, 2023 | OCALA GAZETTE

Wrongful death Continued from page A1 security footage, according to the incident report. Miller and Dukes are not mentioned by name in the jail’s incident report. The pair are being sued individually on the grounds that MCSO employs them to provide security to the jail for “protection, supervision, custody, care, and control of detainees,” according to the lawsuit. The Gulf Pod of the jail houses up to 280 detainees, a number which the lawsuit claims presents security issues, including limited observation of inmates by officers, as lines of sight were often blocked and there were typically only two

officers stationed in the pod, according to the lawsuit. Testimony from inmates present during the attack claim that no officers came to intervene or stop the fight and only came to the scene after an inmate alerted Kosinski. By then, Merchant already had been critically injured. An inmate also testified that detention deputies would often encourage inmates to partake in violence. “Terry Place, a former inmate at the Marion County Jail, has testified via affidavit that on multiple occasions, he witnessed an MCSO deputy encouraging Lutterloah to be violent towards other inmates,” according to the lawsuit.

Thompson files for reelection as county court judge

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File photo: Marion County Judge Tommy Thompson, right, speaks about the Marion County Misdemeanor Probation Services item on the agenda as Mike McCain, left, looks on during the Marion County Commission meeting at the McPherson Governmental Complex in Ocala on Tuesday, June 20 2023. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2023.

By Caroline Brauchler caroline@ocalagazette.com

arion County Judge Thomas “Tommy” Thompson is running to retain the Fifth Judicial Circuit position he has held since 2016. Thompson, who oversees the Marion County Mental Health Court, said he believes his experience over the past terms, patience and tolerance make him a qualified candidate to continue serving the public in this capacity. “With the experience that I’ve had, I feel like I’m well positioned at this point in my career to address these cases and to see them through to a quick and a timely resolution, but a fair resolution for everybody involved,” he said. Thompson is the only candidate to date in the nonpartisan race. The Mental Health Court is a special diversion program that allows nonviolent misdemeanor offenders with histories of mental health issues to go through an alternate form of rehabilitation rather than a traditional sentencing. Thompson has been in charge of the program since 2016. “It’s a fantastic program,’’ he said. “We serve the participants—we obtain treatment, counseling and necessary medication. We try to assist with obtaining stable housing and really just try to get the participants on the road to wellness and to where they’re productive happy members of society.” Thompson said one of his biggest priorities has been and will continue to be expanding the mental health court program to serve a broader number of candidates. He said they’re nearly ready to begin accepting nonviolent felony offenders with mental health issues into the program so that they, too, might benefit from alternative rehabilitation. The expansion could benefit more than just those who receive treatment, however, Thompson said. By taking a portion of felony cases off the circuit court’s docket, it could free up courtroom

time and resources for more serious, violent cases. “If we can assist the circuit court judges with getting some of those nonviolent, lower ranking, third-degree felony charges… it helps the felony judges turn their attention to the more serious, more complicated cases and really give those cases the time and the attention that they need,” he said. Thompson said offenders who go through Mental Health Court are also a much lower risk to society upon completion and have a lower chance of committing crimes in the future. Thompson is also the immediate past president of the Conference of County Court Judges of Florida, a two-year position to which his fellow judges elected him in 2020. He said one of the conference’s biggest priorities is increasing compensation for the judiciary statewide. “Judges statewide, the trial judges, are seeking an increase in compensation,’’ Thompson said. “Compensation and the pay scale for trial judges has lagged behind that of the appellate judges and the (Florida) Supreme Court.” In addition to the experience under his belt, Thompson said he also takes pride in his demeanor as a judge. “I have been told by litigants and by the attorneys who appear before the court that I do treat litigants with fairness and with respect,” he said. “I try my best to give everybody who comes to the courthouse to have their case, or to give all the parties, a fair opportunity to be heard by the court and to have their arguments considered.” He said it takes a “special type of person” to be a county court judge, and that he truly enjoys the work he has been elected to do. “I appreciate the people in Marion County putting their faith in me over the last few terms,” Thompson said. “I’m hopeful that if I again am able to secure reelection that I continue to meet their expectations and to serve the community in a fair and an even-handed manner.”

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For more information, scan the QR code or contact the City of Ocala Water Resources Department at 352-351-6772.

NOVEMBER 17 - NOVEMBER 23, 2023 | OCALA GAZETTE

Celebrating ‘Ocali’

The annual Ocali Country Days festival brings history to life. Photos by Bruce Ackerman Ocala Gazette

By Susan Smiley-Height susan@magnoliamediaco.com

T Kamla Pierre, 3, and her godmother, Taina Pierre, help press sugar cane as they walk together to turn the sugar cane press in the Pioneer “Cracker” Village during Ocali Country Days at the Silver River Museum in Silver Springs State Park on Saturday, Nov. 11, 2023.

Katie Dile spins sheep’s wool on a spinning wheel.

he tree-shaded campus of the Silver River Museum & Environmental Education Center and Pioneer “Cracker” Village, inside Silver Springs State Park, was filled with an estimated 5,000 or so visitors on Nov. 11 and 12 for the annual Ocali Country Days Festival. According to the city of Ocala’s website, “Ocala’s name comes from the extinct Timucuan tribe who called their village Ocali, commonly thought to mean ‘Big Hammock.’” The festival offers living history exhibits that highlight life during the 1800s. Over the weekend, volunteers in period costumes showed off the authentic and replica pioneer cabins and Cracker homes on the property, fed livestock, demonstrated blacksmithing and weaving, made cane syrup and even fired up a kiln to bake handmade pottery pieces. The aroma of the cane syrup cooking filled the air, with bottles of freshly made syrup available to take home for a small price. The event also included vendors, food trucks and live entertainment. The Silver River Museum & Environmental Education Center is a program of Marion County Public Schools and is open to the public on weekends.

Nicole Gabbard bottle feeds a 3-day-old Jersey calf in the Cracker Cow Camp.

The Bluegrass band Pasteur Prime performs on the porch of the Godwin Family Cracker House in the Pioneer “Cracker” Village.

To learn more, visit silverrivermuseum.com Alan Morton stokes the fire in the Blacksmith Shop as he forges nails in the Pioneer “Cracker” Village.

Cane syrup is shown for sale.

Steams rises as James Ahlers, left, and Chuck Stegall boil cane syrup.

NOVEMBER 17 - NOVEMBER 23, 2023 | OCALA GAZETTE

Harrell files candidacy for reelection as clerk of court the other constitutional officers and county commissioners and judges that my team and I get to work with,” he said. While Harrell is only three years into his first term, he isn’t new to serving the public at the clerk of court’s office. “I had the good fortune of serving as general counsel to my predecessor, David Ellspermann, in his last two terms. So, I’ve been with the office almost 11 years now,” he said. Harrell, a thirdgeneration Marion County resident, earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Virginia and File photo: Greg Harrell, the Clerk of Court and Comptroller for Marion County, speaks during the dedication ceremony for the Ina A. Colen Academy in Calesa Township in earned his law degree from Ocala on Wednesday, July 27, 2022. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2022. the University of Florida’s Levin College of Law. By Caroline Brauchler Harrell points to multiple innovations caroline@ocalagazette.com made possible by him and his team since his election, including the implementation reg Harrell has filed his of the county’s very first Popular Annual candidacy to run for reelection Financial Report in 2022. in 2024 for the office of clerk of “The PAFR is more of user friendly, court and comptroller. typically about a 10- to 15- or 20-page Harrell, a Republican, was first elected document, that gives citizens a snapshot of to the office in 2020. If reelected, he will the county details,” he said. “We’ve never serve until 2028. To date, he is the only done that before and I’m just very proud of candidate in the race. the fact that we were able to get that done.” When asked why he decided to throw The PAFR is intended to be a his hat in the ring for another term, simple, easy-to-understand summary Harrell said he truly enjoys the job and of the county’s economic condition and couldn’t imagine giving it up. activities and condenses the data from “I am absolutely loving the job. I love the Annual Comprehensive Financial the team I get to work with and love Report to show residents how tax dollars

are spent in Marion County, according to the clerk’s office. Harrell said he also took pride in their new website, which was redone in recent months. “We were able to use basically the results of some data analytics to know and understand why people come to our website, what they look at the most, what they use the most, and then repackaged the website to basically better work for the customers,” he said. Harrell said another reason he’s vying for reelection is to continue representing Marion County on a state level. He currently serves as the treasurer of the Florida Court Clerks & Comptrollers, and last year served as the association’s secretary. “If reelected as clerk locally, I will have the opportunity to also continue to serve at the state level and during my second term, eventually become the president of the statewide (FCCC), which I think is an important purpose of having our local voice heard,” Harrell said. Outside of his duties as an elected official, Harrell is also a husband and father. His wife, Stephanie, is a physician and the owner and operator of Pediatric Associates of Ocala. The pair have two children, a 15-year-old son and 13-year-old daughter, who both attend Marion County Public Schools. If given the opportunity to serve as clerk of court again, Harrell said he sees a lot of potential with four more years in office. “I know how it’s done,” he said. “I love the work, and just trying to look for ways to continuously do better for the people in Marion County.”

FHP FOOD DRIVE IS UNDERWAY

By Andy Fillmore andy@ocalagazette.com

he annual Florida Highway Patrol “Stuff the Charger” Food Drive began Nov. 1 and will run throughout the month. The food drive, named after the familiar black and tan FHP Dodge Charger cruisers, aims to help families in need by collecting non-perishable food donations for distribution to local food banks and nonprofit agencies. Donations sought include canned goods such as meats and vegetables; dried goods including boxed potatoes and grits; and energy bars, evaporated milk and more. Capt. Gregory Lamont, acting commander of Troop B, which serves Hamilton, Suwannee, Alachua, Dixie, Columbia, Gilchrist, Levy, Lafayette and Marion counties, welcomes “citizens and corporate sponsors to drop off large or small food donations” at FHP stations in Ocala, Gainesville, Cross City and Lake City, according to the press release. “Our goal is to feed the hungry through our partnership with local food banks and other nonprofit agencies who do this important work on a daily basis,” Lamont said in the release.

The Ocala FHP Station is located at 600 SE 25th Ave. and can be reached by phone at (352) 512-6630.

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NOVEMBER 17 - NOVEMBER 23, 2023 | OCALA GAZETTE

County Commission elects new chair and vice chair

Michelle Stone of the Marion County Commission listens during the Historic Marion County Commission meeting held at the Fort King National Historic Landmark in Ocala on Tuesday, Nov. 7, 2023. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2023.

By Caroline Brauchler caroline@ocalagazette.com

he Marion County Commission has elected Michelle Stone as chair and Kathy Bryant as vice chair of the board for the new term. Stone, who has served as vice chair since 2022, will replace Commissioner Craig Curry to serve as chair. “It’s humbling and an honor to be voted in as chair for this upcoming year,” Stone said in a written statement. “Working with my fellow commissioners in unity I believe we will accomplish many of our initiatives to keep Marion County a safe, well-planned community with a thriving economy that supports a high quality of life where family matters.” Stone formerly served as vice chair while Bryant was the chair in 2017, served as chair in 2018 and again served as vice chair under Curry in 2022. Bryant will take over Stone’s seat of vice chair. Bryant served as vice chair under Charlie Stone in 2011, served as chair in 2012, served as vice chair under Stan McClain in 2014, served as chair in 2015, served as vice chair under Carl Zalak in 2016 and again served as chair in 2017 and 2019. First elected in 2016, Stone is running as a Republican for reelection to the District 5 seat in the 2024 election. If reelected, this will be her third term. Also running for Stone’s commission seat

are Nicole Meade, Republican, and Jose “Manny” Alonso, Independent. With her election to vice chair, Bryant expressed eagerness to step back into a higher leadership position. “I’m humbled that my board members have seen me fit to serve in that capacity again,” Bryant said. “I’m humbled that the citizens of Marion County have seen to keep me in the position that I’m in and I look forward to continuing to serve.” The role of the vice chair is to act as the next-highest authority and fill in for the chair in the instance he or she is not able to preside over meetings, execute documents and records or attend events. “I will be there to back the chair up anytime that she’s unavailable for a special event outside of our normal commission business,” Bryant said. Bryant said she and Stone each have a record of making history in Marion County, with three instances of having pioneering positions on the county commission. “The first was when (Stone) was elected because there had never been two women serve on the board at the same time,” Bryant said. Stone joined Bryant on the board in 2016, and Bryant has served on the board since her first election in 2010. “Then, when Stone was selected to be my vice chair, we made history as being the first two females to be chair and vice chair,” Bryant said. “Now, we’re doing it again.”

he city of Ocala and the St. Johns River Water Management District ask residents to ensure that their sprinkler systems remain off from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. daily. Residents are encouraged to reset their automatic sprinkler timers and ensure that lawn-watering occurs no more than once a week to conserve water during the winter months. “As cooler weather sets in, your lawns and landscapes require far less water than during the summer months,” said St. Johns River Water Management District

Public Notice

NOTICE OF THE SCHOOL BOARD OF MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA A SPECIAL MEETING OF THE TECHNICAL WORKING GROUP FOR PUBLIC EDUCATIONAL FACILITIES PLANNING NOTICE is hereby given that the Superintendent of Marion County Schools causes to be scheduled a meeting of the Technical Working Group (TWG) on November 27, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. at the MCPS District Office - 1614 East Fort King Street, Ocala, FL 34471 - Building 2, Room 32. This meeting is scheduled to convene in accordance with language, adopted by the School Board and all general service local governments of Marion County, in the Third Amended Interlocal Agreement for Public School Facilities Planning. The meeting will focus narrowly on the existence, organization, exchange, and use of Data, and Data aspects related to Educational System Impact Fee tracking, analyses, and calculations. It is anticipated that one or more members of the Marion County School Board, the Superintendent of Schools for Marion County, general service governmental Elected Officials of Marion County and related staff members may be present and may provide input to the Board at this meeting. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, anyone needing special assistance due to a disability should contact Ms. Elena Martinez, Executive Assistant 352-671-7707, at least 72 hours prior to the meeting.

IN THE COUNTY COURT OF THE FIFTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA Case No. 2023-CC-0544 MEADOW GLENN OF MARION COUNTY HOMEOWNERS’ ASSOCIATION , INC. , A FLORIDA NOT FOR PROFIT CORPORATION, Plaintiff, vs. DOMINIC F. CARRIZZO AND SARA R. RODRIGUEZ, Defendant(s). NOTICE OF SALE UNDER FLORIDA STATUTES CHAPTER 45 NOTICE IS GIVEN that, in accordance with the Final Summary Judgment of Foreclosure and Monetary Judgment and Taxation of Attorney’s Fees and Costs entered on or about October 18, 2023, in the above-styled cause, the Clerk of Court in and for Marion County, Florida, will sell to the highest and best bidder for cash by electronic sale at www.marion. realforeclose.com , on December 6, 2023, at 11:00 a.m., the following described real property: Lot 210, Meadow Glenn Unit 5, according to the plat thereof, recorded in Plat Book 10, Page 74, of the Public Records of Marion County, Florida. Physical Address: 5587 SW 96 th Place, Ocala, Florida 34476 . Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the lis pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale. CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE I HEREBY CERTIFY that a true and correct copy of the foregoing has been furnished by U.S. Mail or eservice on this 2nd day of November, 2023, to: Dominic F. Carrizzo, 5587 SW 96 th Place, Ocala, Florida 34476; Sara R. Rodriguez, 5587 SW 96 th Place, Ocala, Florida 34476; and Blanchard, Merriam, Adel, Kirkland and Green, P.A., btropello@bmaklaw.com and maleman@bmaklaw.com . JUDICIOUS LAW, P.A. By:BRADFORD J. TROPELLO, ESQUIRE bjt@judiciouslawpa.com ma@judiciouslawpa.com Post Office Box 369 Ocala, Florida 34478 (352) 509-5015 Florida Bar No.: 42694

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE Fifth JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2021-CA-000120 ST. JAMES PARK HOMEOWNER'S ASSOCIATION, INC. Plaintiff, vs. SARAH ELIZABETH TAYLOR, individually;, Defendants. /

NOTICE OF SPECIAL SCHOOL BOARD MEETING Notice is hereby given that the School Board of Marion County, Florida, will meet on November 27, 2023, at 9:00 a.m., at the Marion Technical Institute Auditorium, 1614 E. Fort King Street, Ocala, Florida 34471. An agenda will be published seven days prior to the meeting. The agenda may be obtained at the Administration Office between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. The agenda is also available from a link on the District’s website: www. marion.k12.fl.us.

Any person deciding to appeal any decision made by the Board at the meeting will need a record of the proceedings, and, for such purpose, may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence on which the appeal is to be based.

Kathy Bryant of the Marion County Commission listens during the Historic Marion County Commission meeting held at the Fort King National Historic Landmark in Ocala on Tuesday, Nov. 7, 2023. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2023.

Executive Director Mike Register in a press release. “By reducing irrigation, we not only protect our water resources, but homeowners also have the opportunity to see savings on their water bill.” Until March, odd-numbered or not addressed houses are asked use irrigation on Saturdays only. Even-numbered houses are asked to use irrigation on Sundays only, with non-residential addressed homes asked to use water on Tuesdays only. “These restrictions are designed to preserve groundwater supplies, maintain healthy yards, and protect water quality during winter months,” according to the press release.

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NOTICE UNDER FICTITIOUS NAME LAW PURSUANT TO SECTION 865.09, FLORIDA STATUTES NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Natalie Hogan will engage in business under the fictitious name VANILLA GIRL, with a physical address 450 NE 140th Street Citra, Fl 32113, with a mailing address 450 NE 140th Street Citra, Fl 32113, and already registered the name mentioned above with the Florida Department of State, Division of Corporations.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Hands Up Holdings, LLC, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of Hands Up Communications, intends to register the said name with the Division of Corporations of The Florida Department of State. Dated at Ocala, Florida, November 9, 2023. Joseph V. Featherstone, Manager.

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NOTICE is hereby given pursuant to a Summary Final Judgment of Foreclosure and Award of Attorneys Fees and Costs, dated October 30, 2023, and entered in Case Number: 2021-CA-000120, of the County Court in and for Marion County, Florida, wherein ST. JAMES PARK HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC. is the Plaintiff, and SARAH ELIZABETH TAYLOR is the Defendant, the Marion County Clerk of the Court will sell to the highest and best bidder for cash, by electronic sale on-line at www. marion.realforeclose.com, beginning at 11:00 o’clock A.M. on the 12th day of December, 2023 the following described property as set forth in said Summary Final Judgment of Foreclosure and Award of Attorneys Fees and Costs, to-wit: 1 Lot 18 Block H, Property Ocala, Florida 34475 Address: Property Description: Lot 18, Block H, ST. JAMES PARK, according to the Plat thereof, as recorded in Plat Book 10, Page 159, of the public records of Marion County, Florida. If you are person with a disability who needs any accommodation in order to participate in this proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance. Please contact Tameka Gordon, the ADA Coordinator at the Office of the Trial Court Administrator, Marion County Judicial Center, 110 NW First Avenue, Ocala, Florida 34475, Telephone (352) 401-6710, at least 7 days before your scheduled court appearance, or immediately upon receiving notification if the time before the scheduled appearance in less than 7 days; if you are hearing or voice impaired, call 711. /s/ Alicia S. Perez John L. Di Masi

Persons wishing to address the Board should register with the Board Clerk prior to 9:10 a.m.

OCALA PLACES RESTRICTIONS ON IRRIGATION SYSTEMS IN WINTER

By Caroline Brauchler caroline@ocalagazette.com

Public Notice

Patrick J. Burton Notice is hereby given that the Southwest Florida Water Management District has received Environmental Resource permit application number 850962 from City of Ocala. Application received: 6/21/2022. Proposed activity: Construction of Roadway. Project name: ITB# CIP/230168: SW/NW 44th Avenue Extension Phase 2. Project size: 10.57 acres. Location: Sec/ Twp/ Rge: S15/T15S/R21E, in Marion County. Outstanding Florida Water: no. Aquatic preserve: no. The application is available for public inspection Monday through Friday at 7601 U.S. Highway 301 North, Tampa, Florida 33637 or through the "Application & Permit Search Tools" function on the District's website at www.watermatters.org/ permits/. Interested persons may inspect a copy of the application and submit written comments concerning the application. Comments must include the permit application number and be received within 14 days from the date of this notice. If you wish to be notified of intended agency action or an opportunity to request an administrative hearing regarding the application, you must send a written request referencing the permit application number to the Southwest Florida Water Management District, Regulation Bureau, 7601 U.S. Highway 301 North, Tampa, Florida 33637 or submit your request through the District's website at www.watermatters. org. The District does not discriminate based on disability. Anyone requiring accommodation under the ADA should contact the Regulation Bureau at (813)985-7481 or 1(800)836-0797, TDD only 1(800)231-6103.

Toby Snively Helena G. Malchow Eryn M. McConnell Eileen Martinez James E. Olsen Alicia S. Perez Brian S. Hess

Florida Bar No.: 0915602 Florida Bar No.: 0098460 Florida Bar No.: 0125998 Florida Bar No.: 0968323 Florida Bar No.: 0018858 Florida Bar No.: 0101537 Florida Bar No.: 0607703 Florida Bar No.: 0091930 Florida Bar No.: 0725072

DI MASI | BURTON, P.A. 801 N. Orange Avenue, Suite 500 Orlando, Florida 32801 Fx (407) 839Ph (407) 839-3383 3384 Primary E-Mail: JDLaw@orlando-law. com Attorneys for Plaintiff Certificate of Service

I HEREBY CERTIFY that a true and correct copy of the foregoing has been furnished via U.S. Mail to the following this 8th day of November, 2023. Sarah Elizabeth Taylor 2 New Road, Oxton Southwell, Notts NG25 0SL England

/s/ Alicia S. Perez Alicia S. Perez, Esq.

NOVEMBER 17 - NOVEMBER 23, 2023 | OCALA GAZETTE

State Court consolidation idea shot down By Dara Kam Florida News Service

like this, we learn more about the consolidating our judicial circuits judicial branch and the justice just does not make sense to system stakeholders that helps me,” 10th Judicial Circuit State mid overwhelming us to improve the work that we Attorney Brian Haas, whose opposition to do for the public and provide circuit includes Polk, Highland consolidation, a justice and fairness in all of the and Hardee counties, told the committee appointed work that we do, and I expect panel at a meeting in August. by the Florida Supreme this report will be helpful in that Other critics labeled Court on Friday unanimously regard,” he said. consolidation a gerrymandering recommended against shrinking The committee on Friday went effort aimed at weakening the number of judicial circuits in over surveys of each of the 20 Democrats’ power in the court the state. circuits, analyzing such factors system. Chief Justice Carlos Muniz in as efficiency, public trust and The surveys reviewed Friday July issued an order establishing confidence, professionalism and revealed “legitimate beefs,” the committee to explore whether case-clearance rates. committee member Laird Lile any of the state’s 20 judicial The panel, made up of judges, said, “but none of them would be circuits should be consolidated, clerks and attorneys, also cured by consolidation.” an idea pushed by House Speaker considered a number of proposed “Looking at things that Paul Renner, R-Palm Coast. scenarios that would consolidate have been around as long as Muniz gave the committee circuits. Each proposal, however, the circuit system has is not a until Dec. 1 to issue a report. was shot down. bad idea … but I didn’t hear State attorneys, public Discussing a potential anybody say that the solution to defenders, judges, sheriffs, other consolidation in Northwest anything that we’ve identified elected officials, attorneys and Florida, 1st Judicial Circuit in this fascinating process is members of the public from the Judge Linda Nobles said her consolidation of any circuits,” Florida Keys to the Panhandle circuit already covers more than Lile, a Naples attorney, said. vehemently argued against a 4,000 square miles. Judge Margaret Steinbeck, potential decrease in the number “It would take an already who serves in the 20th Judicial of circuits. difficult situation and it would Circuit, noted that the committee After Friday’s unanimous make it more difficult. And received data showing “disparate vote, 4th District Court of Appeal that’s what happens when the resources allocation” among the Judge Jonathan Gerber, who geographical area gets bigger,” circuits, which could “potentially chairs the committee, said the said Nobles, whose circuit improve” with consolidation. months-long effort wasn’t in vain. includes Escambia, Okaloosa, “But for me, the overarching “This exercise that we’ve Santa Rosa and Walton counties. adverse impact for any done is a good exercise and Critics of consolidation have consolidation proposal was the healthy exercise for not only the also said such a move would adverse impact on public trust ( judicial) branch but our system diminish access to the courts and confidence in the court of government as a whole,” for lower-income people and system,” said Steinbeck, whose Gerber said. rural residents, pose logistical Southwest Florida circuit spans Gerber noted that the number problems and be costly. Charlotte, Collier, Glades, of circuits in the state hasn’t “With the incredible increase Hendry and Lee counties. changed over the past 54 years in our state’s population, Steinbeck suggested the Strategic Community Alliance,complexity Inc. presentsof and that other court-related the increasing committee include a section in studies have been useful. our cases and the expanding report “that doesn’t say no Gen�va Ocala Diwali Celebration – A Cross-Cultural Experience ofits India “Every time we have a study functions of our trial courts … benefit of consolidation, but that

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the benefits were significantly outweighed by the adverse impacts” and consider other recommendations “in order to improve the court system.” In a June 15 letter to Muniz that spurred creation of the committee, Renner noted that “the size of our judicial circuits varies widely,” ranging from about 2.7 million people in the 11th Judicial Circuit in MiamiDade County to less than 100,000 people in the 16th Judicial Circuit in Monroe County. The Florida Constitution gives the Legislature the authority to make changes in the circuit- and appellate-court systems, based on recommendations from the Supreme Court. In 2022, for example, lawmakers approved creating a sixth district court of appeal and reorganizing some appellate jurisdictions. Miami-Dade County Public Defender Carlos Martinez drew attention Friday to what he said is one of the main issues confronting the judicial system. “One of the biggest inefficiencies in our system right now, particularly in the criminal courts, is the fact that we have such high turnover in the state attorney and public defender offices, and that is almost strictly due to the low salaries for people coming in and not being able to retain our lawyers,” Martinez said. Under a 2021 rule, the Supreme Court must consider circuits’ effectiveness, efficiency, accessibility, professionalism and public trust and confidence

before recommending changes. Seventh Judicial Circuit Judge Christopher Kelly, pointing to the rule, said the committee could make suggestions other than consolidation to help courts run better. “It’s important for us to look at that criteria and say, can we provide a better service to the people that come to the courts,” said Kelly, whose circuit is made up of St. Johns Flagler, Putnam and Volusia counties. Judge Keith Carsten of the 9th Judicial Circuit in Orange and Osceola counties, however, said Muniz’s directive was limited. “Our charge was not to come up with ideas of change across the board … The charge to the committee was ‘the committee must limit its findings and recommendations to whether there is a need to consolidate, i.e., reduce the number of Florida’s judicial circuits,’” Carsten said. But Gerber said the committee, which will meet Nov. 17 to finalize a draft report, could highlight issues facing the judicial system as part of its submission to the Supreme Court. “Whether or not the Supreme Court or the Legislature or the executive branch wishes to proceed at any point later on, that’s for their consideration to do, but we can at least within the report itself make note of other suggestions that were made to us though outside the course and scope of our committee’s charge,” he said.

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NOVEMBER 17 - NOVEMBER 23, 2023 | OCALA GAZETTE

Lawmakers eye allowing spouses in veterans homes By Ryan Dailey Florida News Service

Florida Senate panel on Tuesday backed a proposal that would allow veterans’ spouses to qualify to live in state-run long-term care facilities for veterans. The measure (SB 174) also would allow parents of military members who died in service to be eligible. The Senate Military and Veterans Affairs, Space and Domestic Security Committee approved the bill in a unanimous vote. Sen. Danny Burgess, a Zephyrhills Republican who previously served as executive director of the Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs, filed the bill for the 2024 legislative session, which will begin in January. “This bill recognizes very simply that it’s not just the service member who put the uniform on and sacrificed, that it’s also the spouse,” Burgess told members of the Senate panel. The expanded eligibility would apply to veterans’ nursing homes and what are known as domiciliary homes, or assisted living facilities. The state operates eight skilled nursing facilities and one assisted living facility. Nearly 1.5 million veterans live in Florida, according to the most-recent data from the U.S. Department of Veterans’ Affairs. Florida’s veterans’ nursing homes were at 94 percent capacity as of October, and 11 people are on a waiting list to move into the facilities, a Senate staff analysis of the bill said. Burgess told The News Service of Florida that “there is a need” for more veterans’ nursing homes, and “we are continually looking to expand.” Burgess also said the number of veterans in the homes has bounced back after admissions were reduced during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“That’s gone back up to a very healthy level,” Burgess said. “Veterans will always have priority. There’s a ranking in terms of priority … and veterans will always have priority admission. So we’re not necessarily taking a bed from a veteran. But if there’s available space and there’s a spouse, and there’s not a wait list of veterans looking to get into the home, then a spouse would be able to join their loved one.” In the ranking system for admitting people to the facilities, spouses or surviving spouses of veterans would be in second-tolast place after all categories of veterans. Parents of military members who died in service would be ranked below the spouses. The Senate staff analysis said the average cost of care per day in veterans’ nursing homes is $394.15. Non-veterans who would enter facilities under the expanded eligibility system would have to bear the costs, the staff analysis said. “A qualifying non-veteran resident will have to pay full cost to reside in a state veterans’ home. However, the resident would otherwise have to pay at another home, or for a private residence. For the spouse of a resident veteran, cost savings may be realized through the spouses sharing a room or assisted living arrangement,” the analysis said. Sen. Jay Collins, a Tampa Republican who served in the U.S. Army Special Forces, described the bill as having the potential to keep families together. Collins is a Purple Heart veteran who was wounded several times in combat, with one injury requiring amputation of a leg. “In going through many of the experiences I’ve had as a wounded warrior,” Collins said, “I had an incredible amount of guilt every single time I was separated from my family throughout this process.” The Senate bill would need approval from two more committees before it could be considered by the full Senate. A similar House bill had not been filed as of Tuesday.

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NOVEMBER 17 - NOVEMBER 23, 2023 | OCALA GAZETTE

Lawmakers target school regulations By Ryan Dailey Florida News Service

lorida lawmakers are looking at ways to take some regulations off the books for public schools. The Senate Education Pre-K-12 Committee and the House Education Quality Subcommittee held workshops this week on the issue, after a deregulation effort was included in a law (HB 1) passed in March that massively expanded the state’s school-voucher programs. Senate President Kathleen Passidomo, R-Naples, has championed the effort to do away with what she calls “burdensome” regulations on schools. “Because traditional public schools should always be a strong option for Florida’s families, a huge component of implementing HB 1 is our effort to reduce outdated, unnecessary, and quite frankly, burdensome regulations public schools have to abide by,” Passidomo said in a Nov. 3 memo to senators. The law directed the State Board of Education to identify potential repeals and revisions in the state’s education code. The law also required the board to solicit input from people such as teachers, superintendents, administrators and

school boards. More than 4,000 suggestions came in from across the state, with most coming from parents of public-school students and educators. The law required the education board to submit recommendations to the Legislature and Gov. Ron DeSantis by Nov. 1. A Department of Education presentation given to the House and Senate panels said recommendations were aimed at “increasing efficiencies and reducing redundancies,” “removing outdated and unnecessary reporting requirements,” “providing additional flexibility in the area of transportation while ensuring safety” and “providing additional financial flexibility.” “In terms of efficiency, we had a number of recommendations that would allow districts to leverage technology to increase efficiency. One of them is to remove some requirements around publishing notices in the local newspaper,” Adam Miller, a senior chancellor with the Department of Education, said during the House presentation Wednesday. Instead, districts would be allowed to use digital communications to distribute the information. Miller said the board looked at research that suggested people

are more likely to get information from digital media. The Legislature is slated to consider the recommendations during the 2024 legislative session, which will start in January. The Senate Education PreK12 Committee on Wednesday will begin considering three deregulation bills, though details had not been released as of Friday morning. The recommendations presented this week to the panels also included such things as changing a requirement that certified mechanics inspect school buses every 30 days, extending that time period to every 90 days. “It’s important to understand that required daily inspection still exists. So, bus drivers have to do visual inspections of their buses every day before they drive them,” Miller said. Other recommendations were aimed at providing financial flexibility to schools. For example, one proposal would involve raising the threshold at which districts are required to obtain the services of registered architects for renovation projects. That threshold is $50,000. Miller told the House panel that the financial flexibility suggestions could particularly help districts.

“Especially with some of the … inflationary pressures that districts are dealing with, to let them manage their finances with a little more flexibility,” Miller said. Sen. Corey Simon, chairman of the Senate education panel, said the regulations that could be removed were added over time and were “well-intended.” But he said proposed changes are designed to make sure time and money are used more wisely. “What we’re really shooting for is to get back to making sure that our teachers and our students take advantage of the time that they have in the classroom. We don’t want a lot of wasted time and a lot of wasted money by our school districts, by our state,” Simon told The News Service of Florida. TJ Bugos, a Seminole County teacher who heads the Seminole Education Association, spoke in support of the deregulation effort during Tuesday’s Senate panel meeting. “Back to local control. Republicans are famous for wanting local control. Government is best when it’s closest to the people. And where is it any closer than public schools?” Bugos told the News Service.

DEFENSE LAWYERS OBJECT TO JUDGE AGREEMENT

By Florida News Service

statewide group of defense attorneys is raising concerns about a proposed agreement that would lead to a 30day suspension and a public reprimand for a Liberty County judge who held an improper discussion with a prosecutor after a court hearing. The Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers late Tuesday sought permission from the state Supreme Court to file a brief about its “disapproval” of the agreement reached by Judge Kenneth Hosford and an investigative panel of the Florida Judicial Qualifications Commission.

The case stems from a June 15 discussion between Hosford and an assistant state attorney after a hearing held on Zoom. The investigative panel, in a filing last month at the Supreme Court, said Hosford addressed “concerns over the prosecutor’s decision to decline to file charges in a theft case where Judge Hosford had, just the day before, personally approved an arrest warrant for the accused. During the Zoom meeting, while addressing his displeasure with the way the prosecutor had declined to prosecute the case, Judge Hosford also admits to having provided investigative advice to the

detective investigating the crime, including suggesting to the detective that he might get a search warrant to obtain more evidence of the crime.” The investigation led to a proposed agreement, known as a stipulation, that would lead to Hosford receiving a 30-day suspension without pay and a reprimand and recusing himself from criminal matters for three months, according to documents filed at the Supreme Court. But in Tuesday’s filing, the defense lawyers association indicated it wants to weigh in on the discipline, while also saying Hosford had made critical comments about immigrants.

“FACDL (the association) is concerned that the factually undisputed comments by Judge Hosford evince a clear bias in favor of law enforcement and against criminal defendants, particularly immigrant criminal defendants, which the proposed penalties will not ameliorate,” the filing said. “Judge Hosford self-describes being a sort of political ‘boss’ of Liberty County when it comes to law enforcement, who has ex parte conversations (outside the presence of defense attorneys) about pending cases not just with prosecutors but with sheriff ’s deputies, the elected sheriff, and the local newspaper publisher.”

Annual Lights You are invited to the of Love Community Tree Annual Lights ofLighting Love Ceremony December 2023 6:00 pm Community Tree7,Lighting Ceremony Ocala Citizens’ Circle

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NOVEMBER 17 - NOVEMBER 23, 2023 | OCALA GAZETTE

People, Places & Things An Ocala artist uses sculpture to start conversations about our collective strength as a community.

Carmen Rojas-Gines welds in her studio as she works on creating a metal sculpture. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2023.

Carmen Rojas-Gines poses for a photo in the welding area of her studio in the Griffin Industrial Park in northeast Ocala on Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2023. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2023.

“All my sculptures are based on different experiences of a human being. I’m a mother. I’m a wife. I’m a daughter. I’m a friend and I’m part of this community.” Rojas Gines

Metal sculptures titled “She Warrior,” or “Guerrera,” in Spanish, by artist Carmen Rojas-Gines [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2023.

NOVEMBER 17 - NOVEMBER 23, 2023 | 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.

Bird of the Week

Yellow warbler [MichaelWarren.com]

By Michael Warren

here are many yellow warblers, but the most yellow warbler is the actual yellow warbler. (The prothonotary warbler is brighter yellow but less yellow overall.) This uncommon visitor passes through Marion County on the way to its winter range in Central and South America. A great place to see yellow warblers of all kinds is the Ocala Wetland Recharge Park, where this one was photographed. #43

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Across

1 Dart around like a hummingbird 5 Like 9-Across that has lost its fizz 9 Dark drink with fizz 13 Easier to write neatly on, probably 15 Like tinned sardines 16 Las Vegas WNBA team 17 “Drive Happy” car rental company 18 Harvest 19 School gps. 20 *Mahalia Jackson’s genre 23 Poem of praise 24 “Passing” actress Thompson 25 “Friendly” cartoon ghost 27 Abbr. between names 29 *Colorful top with a tropical design 32 Contributor with deep pockets 35 Esteem 36 Layers on tall wedding cakes 37 Orchestra __ 38 Greek storyteller who coined “sour grapes” 42 German steel city 44 Current influence on the weather? 45 *Trial figure who can give a firsthand account 49 “__ Is a Woman”: Ariana Grande song 50 Hair gel alternative 51 Joyous song 54 Wrinkly pup 55 Nature lovers, and what the answers to the starred clues literally are 60 Actor Guinness 62 Cathedral section 63 Passion 64 Fork prong 65 Mouse mover 66 Rational believer 67 Stiletto, for one 68 “A __ formality” 69 One-named singer from County Donegal

Down

1 Mark as important 2 “__ & Stitch” 3 Too worked up to relax 4 City between Phoenix and Mesa 5 Like most proms 6 In __ of 7 Word of sorrow 8 “You’re so predictable” 9 Mushroom top 10 Sea creatures with eight arms 11 Front-runner 12 Stand up for (oneself) 14 Female deer 21 Aspiring atty.’s exam 22 Unlike most proms 26 High shine 27 To the rear, at sea 28 “Cobra __”: Netflix series based on “The Karate Kid” 30 Just like ewe 31 Beret, e.g. 33 Rowing teams 34 Pass that leads to a successful basket 37 Signing-ceremony memento 39 Entered a username, say 40 Singer Yoko 41 Okra unit 43 Breastbone 44 Biblical twin 45 One who feels another’s pain 46 “That’s not true!” 47 Oregon city on the Willamette 48 Orb 52 “My stars!” 53 Match, as subjects and verbs 56 Alleviate 57 “Don’t you __ stop!?” 58 Pinkish 59 Spanish miss: Abbr. 61 Cartoon frame

ANSWERS TO PUZZLES ON PAGE B6

NOVEMBER 17 - NOVEMBER 23, 2023 | OCALA GAZETTE

Collaborating for children

Author Charlie Alexander and two teenagers worked together to write and illustrate a new Christmas book for young readers.

By Marian Rizzo Correspondent

hildren’s book author Charlie Alexander has stepped away from his series about a miniature poodle named Flash to release a Christmas book, “Santa’s Big Smile,” in which Alexander shares the illustration credits with two young artists, Kristyn Kennedy and Sarah Frances Voelkel. The two budding artists captured Alexander’s attention during separate circumstances. He learned about Kristyn’s talent when he was in his doctor’s office getting a shingles vaccine, administered by Kristyn’s grandmother, Bonnie Sorrentino, LPN. “We were talking about one of the books I had published, and I said I was thinking about a Christmas book and looking for someone to do some of the artwork for me,” Alexander recalled. “Bonnie took out her cell phone and showed me images of things that Kristyn had done at school in her art class. I was very, very impressed. Her work is different from mine. Hers is very professional.” To Kristyn, the encounter turned into an opportunity of a lifetime. A 17-year-old senior at Trinity Catholic High School, she said that in addition to academics and

Sarah Voelkel [Supllied]

several sports activities, she is heavily into her art, which she shows on Instagram. “That’s probably what my grandmother showed him,” she said. “I never had an opportunity like this. It was cool that I’d get to illustrate a published book. I want to do film production, and this gives me another open door if I want to become an illustrator—just another path I could end up doing.” Sarah, 17, is Alexander’s niece, the daughter of his sister Donna and her husband, Scott Voelkel. “I knew she was an artist,” Alexander said. “I had seen some of her drawings in the past. I wanted to give some young people credit for being involved in a book, so, I sent her an iPad so she could do the artwork. She did great.” Sarah also became a co-author of the book, which is based on humorous texts they shared. “We were texting Christmas jokes back and forth and that’s how this book came about,” Alexander said. “I said, ‘Hey, draw me a couple pictures,’ so she did.” One of Sarah’s drawings shows a sleighful of toys sitting on a roof. The text reads, “How much did Santa’s sleigh cost? Nothing. It was on the house.” Sarah lives in Burke, Virginia, and is looking at a career in animal care. She

said she grew up reading her uncle’s books about Flash. “Every couple of months, we’d get another Flash book,” she said. “It’s just inspiring to see my uncle working. I’m really happy to be part of this work, but my uncle’s the real author. Maybe in the future, me and my uncle will come up with more holiday themed books.” The work with the young artists came together in January. By that time, Alexander had already written and released 10 Flash adventure books. “While I was waiting for the artwork from the girls, I did 11 more books,” he said. “I was in a rip-roar during the pandemic.” Through the eyes of the canine, Alexander has taken children on adventures to music arenas, zoos, farms, and even into outer space. For the first 22 books, Alexander wrote the text and did all of the illustrations and cover designs. But that has changed with “Santa’s Big Smile” and he doesn’t mind sharing credits with Kristyn and Sarah. Alexander, who was born Charlie Remillard, married Becky Alexander in 2014 and chose to take her last name. She had established a career in real estate, so it made sense, he said. Even so, it was an unusual thing for a man to take his wife’s name instead of the other way around, he admits. “I heard I was the first man in Ocala to do that,” he said. “It was unfair, because they don’t charge women, but they charged me to change my name.” As for his own career, he said his wife gives him 100 percent support. “He’s the creative mind in our family,” Becky said. “He’s really incredible.” The Alexanders will celebrate their 10th anniversary in March 2024. They have no children of their own, but his affinity for youngsters has taken him into classrooms and libraries where he interacts with kids of all ages, reads his books to them, and sometimes entertains them by playing the keyboard and singing. The Alexanders have donated books to children’s wards in several hospitals, including UF Health Shands in Gainesville and St. Jude Research Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee. Alexander’s talents have not gone unnoticed by Zandra Singh, president and director of Capstone Academy and Preschool. After meeting him at one of his musical performances, Singh invited him to come and speak to the students,

Charlie Alexander [Supplied]

who range in age from pre-kindergarten through the fourth grade. “He mentioned to me that he had books for kids and would love to stop by,” Singh recalled from their first meeting. “I said, ‘You ought to come read for the kids, not just drop books off.’ The kids love him. There’s nothing like an author reading his own book, and he’s so animated. You can just feel the energy in the kids. You know how it is with a 4-year-old, they get bored, but not with Charlie. He’s able to keep their attention.” A professional jazz pianist and teacher of music, Alexander currently performs from 5 to 8 p.m., on Fridays and Saturdays in the lobby of The Equestrian Hotel at the World Equestrian Center. Self-published through Xlibris, Alexander’s books, including “Santa’s Big Smile,” are available in all formats from amazon.com, bn.com, and booksamillion.com and are on the shelf in the Ocala, Belleview, and Freedom public libraries.

For more information, go to charliealexanderandhispalf lash.com

Kristyn Kennedy [Supllied]

Through January 7

A Dickens Christmas The Urban Family’s Holiday Exhibition

Holiday Community Day Saturday, December 2 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

Enjoy free admission all day, photos with Santa (until 2:30 p.m.), holiday crafts in the Artspace, food trucks and more! Visit AppletonMuseum.org for details.

Appleton Museum, Artspace and Store

Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday, noon-5 p.m. 4333 E. Silver Springs Blvd. | AppletonMuseum.org

NOVEMBER 17 - NOVEMBER 23, 2023 | OCALA GAZETTE

LOCAL CALENDAR LISTINGS

community NOVEMBER 17

Marion County Friday Market

McPherson Governmental Campus Field, 601 SE 25th Ave., Ocala 9am-2pm Shop locally fresh fruits and veggies, baked goods, jerky, freeze-dried treats, olive oils, seafood and more. The market recurs every Friday.

NOVEMBER 17-DECEMBER 15

Coffee and English

Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place, 1821 NW 21st Ave., Ocala 5:30pm-7pm Join the English Language Learners group each Friday as they practice and improve their English in a fun, relaxed environment. This is a great opportunity to improve upon a second language while building new relationships. See ocalafl.gov/ recpark for more information.

NOVEMBER 17-19 & 24-26

Market of Marion

Market of Marion, 12888 SE US Highway 441, Belleview 8am-4pm This is a classic farmers market with lots of vendors. The market is open every weekend, with monthly special events like car shows on the fourth Saturday. See themarketofmarion.com for more information.

NOVEMBER 18

Light Up Ocala

Downtown Ocala 4-9pm The theme for this year’s event is “Celebrate the Spirit of Downtown.” At 4:30 p.m., the Junior Sunshine Parade will begin at the corner of South Magnolia Avenue and East Fort King Street and make its way through downtown, past

the gazebo, up to Northeast First Street and then return to Southeast First Avenue and East Fort King Street. The annual lighting ceremony will begin at approximately 6:30 p.m. The event will include three entertainment zones with live music and performers and more than 100 vendors. Additional entertainment will include the Punch and Judy puppet show, Living Angels, photo ops and a kids’ zone. Guests can get free shuttle rides from the Marion Technical Institute, 1614 SE Fort King St.; E.D. Croskey Recreation Center, 1510 NW Fourth St.; Ocala Skate Park, 517 NE Ninth St.; and Discovery Center, 701 NE Sanchez Ave. For more information, visit ocalafl.gov/lightup or call (352) 368-5517.

NOVEMBER 18 & 25

Yoga in the Park

Sholom Park, 7110 SW 80th Ave., Ocala 9am All are welcome; meet at the stage area. This free class recurs every Saturday morning. Visit sholompark.org for details.

NOVEMBER 18 & 25

Ocala Downtown Farmers Market

Ocala Downtown Market, 310 SE Third St., Ocala 9am-2pm Vendors offer local fruits and vegetables, meats and seafood, fresh pasta, honey, jewelry, baked goodies, clothes, and arts and crafts. Check out local food trucks and the occasional guest entertainer. Rain or shine; recurs every Saturday. Visit ocaladowntownmarket.com for more information.

NOVEMBER 18 & 25

Farmers Swap Meet

Rural King, 2999 NW 10th St., Ocala 9am-2pm A true farmers market where chickens, ducks, quail, geese, goats, turkeys, rabbits and sometimes even ponies are available, along with horse tack, homegrown plants, produce and hand-crafted items. This event recurs on Saturdays, weather permitting. Irene Silva takes a selfie with her daughter, Jakiayra Cordero, 4, after thousands of Christmas lights were turned on during Light Up Ocala on the Ocala Downtown Square in Ocala on Saturday, Nov. 19, 2022. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2022.

NOVEMBER 18

Thanksgiving Dinner City of Refuge Church 9495 SE Maricamp Road, Silver Springs Shores 3pm-5pm The church is offering a free Thanksgiving dinner

to Ocala and Silver Springs Shores residents as a way to give back to the community. For more information, call (352) 687-2007.

NOVEMBER 18-19

Ocala Holiday Craft Show

World Equestrian Center, Expo 1, 1390 NW 80th Ave., Ocala 9am-5pm More than 300 artisans and crafters are slated for this indoor shopping experience. Live entertainment, free demonstrations and education workshops will be offered. Tickets are $7 for adults and $6 for age 13 and younger and seniors. Parking is free. For more information, visit bmgevents.com/ocalacraftshow.html

NOVEMBER 10-12 & 15-19

Annabelle Leitner on early Marion County History

Marion County Museum of History & Archaeology, Green Clover Hall, 319 SE 26th Terrace, Ocala 2pm This month’s topic is early county history. A reception follows the program in the museum itself. Admission is free to members and $5 for nonmembers. For more information, visit bit.ly/3MxBDrB

NOVEMBER 19

Thanksgiving Outreach

Howard Academy Community Center, 306 NW 7th Ave., Ocala 3pm-6pm The academy and its partners give back this time of year, offering free food, coats and care packages while supplies last. Agencies that assist with social services, homelessness and other aid will offer resources. For more information, call (352) 671-4175.

NOVEMBER 19

Gentiva Ocala Diwali Celebration

Citizens’ Circle, 151 SE Osceola Ave., Ocala 11:30am-6pm Marion County’s first community-wide crosscultural event offers an experience of Indian culture and opportunities to wear traditional Indian attire, music, food and learn about Indian history and culture. The event is free to attend, and you can bring your own chairs or blankets. For more information, contact shenimeghani@yahoo.com or scacommunities.org

Hunter/Jumper Fall Series

World Equestrian Center Ocala, Grand Arena, 1390 NW 80th Ave., Ocala 8am-4pm This fall/winter series continues its two months of hunter/jumper shows with a variety of classes for amateurs and professionals. Classes will be held in indoor and outdoor arenas. The event is free and open to the public. For more information, visit worldequestriancenter.com

NOVEMBER 18-19

Sunshine State Open Pleasure Horse Show

Florida Horse Park, 11008 S Highway 475, Ocala 8am-6pm These low-key shows feature Western and English classes with a variety of levels and breeds. Florida 4H and AWHA rules apply. The park has food options onsite. For more information, visit sunshinestateops.com

NOVEMBER 22

Wildlife Wednesdays

Scott Springs Parks 2825 SW 24th Ave., Ocala 5pm-6pm Put your ranger hat on and join park staff for this educational presentation and weekly hike at an area park. Free to attend for all, this is a great way to learn about native animals and their distinct habitats here in Ocala. The topics and park locations vary; see the website for more information at ocalafl.gov/recpark

NOVEMBER 22-25

Fiddler’s Turkey Run Barrel Races

World Equestrian Center Ocala, Arena 6, 1390 NW 80th Ave., Ocala 8am-7pm With big prizes, this multi-day show will highlight the speed, athleticism and maneuverability of barrel horses. For more information, visit fiddlersturkeyrun.com/schedule

Ocala Downtown Market, 310 SE Third St., Ocala 6pm The Ocala Farmers Market hosts special events, and on the 19th, it’s the Young Entrepreneurs Market from 12pm-4pm, and on the 25th it’s a Small Business Saturday market from 6pm-9pm. For more information, visit facebook.com/OcalaDowntownMarket or call the CEP at (352) 629-8051, ext. 126.

NOVEMBER 24-DECEMBER 23

WEC Winter Wonderland

NOVEMBER 19

critters & equine

NOVEMBER 19 & 25

Special Events at the Downtown Farmers Market

World Equestrian Center, 1390 NW 80th Ave., Ocala 5pm-9pm The annual outdoor winter holiday celebration opens this week, running nightly until Christmas week. The Grand Plaza is filled with holiday décor that offers plenty of photo ops, along with carolers, balloon artists, face painting, live entertainment and the chance to meet Santa. The event is free to attend, but requires paid parking of $10 Monday through Thursday and $30 from Friday through Sunday. Some experiences require purchase. See wecwinterwonderland.com for more info.

NOVEMBER 27

City of Ocala Cooking Oil Recycling

Ocala Wetland Recharge Park, 2105 NW 21st St., Ocala 7am-2pm The city will be accepting used cooking oil to help prevent it being poured down drains and affecting the water system. Bring it in a closed container for free recycling.

THROUGH JANUARY 6

“Exciting Explorers” at the Discovery Center Discovery Center, 701 NE Sanchez Ave., Ocala Tuesdays-Saturdays, 10am-4pm The Discovery Center has opened its new exhibit, “Exciting Explorers.” Learn about archeologists and preserving ancient finds, figure out navigation routes and other hands-on science activities. Tickets are $8 per person for ages 3 and older, and $7 for seniors and veterans. See bit.ly/3ZHl029 for more information.

NOVEMBER 26

Pack Walk

Silver Springs State Park, 5656 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala 9am-10:30am Help Marion County Animal Shelter dogs get out and about by helping staffers walk homeless dogs. Park entry fee is only $2 for this event, and you’re welcome to stay in the park afterward. The event recurs monthly on every fourth Sunday. For more info, visit animalservices.marionfl.org

government NOVEMBER 20 & 27

Marion County Development Review Committee

Office of the County Engineer, 412 SE 25th Ave., Building 1, Ocala 9am The first step for new development projects, the committee reviews and votes on waiver requests to the Land Development Code, major site plans and subdivision plans. The committee meets weekly on Mondays. See marionfl.legistar.com/calendar.aspx for agendas and minutes.

NOVEMBER 21

Marion County Board of County Commissioners Meeting 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 available at marionfl.legistar.com/calendar.aspx

civic NOVEMBER 17

South Ocala Chess Club at Freedom Library

Freedom Public Library, 5870 SW 95th St., Ocala 10am-12pm The club meets weekly on Fridays and new members are welcome. Bring your own chess set. For more information, contact Walt Lamp at (352) 854-9378.

NOVEMBER 17

Kiwanis Club of Ocala

Central Christian Church, 3010 NE 14th St., Ocala 12pm The club meets weekly on Fridays and supports Camp Kiwanis, children’s literacy and Habitat for Humanity. More information is available at ocalakiwanis.org.

NOVEMBER 21

Ocala City Council

City Hall, 110 SE Watula Avenue, Ocala 4pm Ocala government agendas and minutes are available at ocala.legistar.com/calendar.aspx.

NOVEMBER 21

Dunnellon Historic Preservation Board

City Hall, 20750 River Drive, Dunnellon 5:30pm Dunnellon government agendas, minutes and video are available at dunnellon.org (site under construction.)

NOVEMBER 18 & 25

Ocala Chess Club at Headquarters Library

Headquarters Library, 2720 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala 11am-3pm The club meets weekly on Saturdays and new members are welcome. Bring your own chess set. For more information, visit facebook.com/groups/53070499106

NOVEMBER 21

Belleview City Commission

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

NOVEMBER 27

Marion County Planning & Zoning Commission

McPherson Governmental Campus Auditorium, 601 SE 25th Ave., Ocala 5:30pm Agendas, minutes and video available at marionfl.legistar.com/calendar.aspx

NOVEMBER 18 & 25

Toastmasters Early Bird Ocala

Marion County Literacy Council, 120 SW 5th St., Ocala 8am Newcomers are welcome. Learn to feel comfortable with public speaking and improve leadership skills. This club meets Saturday mornings for practice. Contact toastmaster.sherrivaughn@gmail.com or 6938954.toastmastersclubs.org for more information.

NOVEMBER 19

Marion County Rose Society

Marion County Sheriff’s Office South Station, 3260 SE 80th St., Ocala 1:30pm This club promotes roses and offers discussions of their care and feeding. Meetings are held the third Sunday of each month. For more information, contact kathymporter@comcast.net

NOVEMBER 17 - NOVEMBER 23, 2023 | OCALA GAZETTE

arts NOVEMBER 17

THROUGH JANUARY 4

Arts and Crafts for Adults

Arts in Health Ocala Metro Headquarters, 507 NE 8th Ave., Ocala 10am-11:30am On Friday mornings, the organization is offering free art programs with Carmen Rojas Gines. All arts and crafts supplies are included. Register at aihocala.org/arts-and-crafts-for-adults.

NOVEMBER 17

Soul Asylum

Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE 9th Ave., Ocala 7:30pm The evening also has special guests Drivin’ N Cryin’ to open for this Grammy-winning alternative rock band. Tickets are $25-$55 and can be purchased at reillyartscenter.com

NOVEMBER 17

Perfect Black: Exhibition Opening

College of Central Florida, Webber Gallery, 3001 SW College Road, Ocala 5pm-7pm A reception and awards presentation features the theme of “Perfect Black: Visual Expression of the Southern, Rural African American Experience.” Artwork will be judged by Steve Prince, an artist in residence at the Muscarelle Museum at William and Mary University. The exhibition continues through Dec. 7 and is free to the public. For more info, see cf.edu/webber

Allison Asarch

Landslide

THROUGH JANUARY 7

NOVEMBER 17

NOVEMBER 22

“A Dickens Christmas: The Urban Family’s Holiday Exhibition”

Appleton Museum of Art, 4333 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala 10am-5pm The museum hosts the Urban family’s remarkable Christmas exhibition again this year, with extravagantly decorated trees, a Dickens Village display and a nutcracker collection. See appletonmuseum.org for more information.

THROUGH JANUARY 8

Recreation and Parks Administration Building and Adult Activity Center, 828/830 NE Eighth Ave., Ocala 8am-5pm Florida artist Albert Bevilacqua focuses this exhibit on recyclable items and he’s turned them into an artistic statement about protecting the environment. Free to the public, this is part of the Art in City Spaces program by the City of Ocala. See ocalafl.gov/artincityspaces for more information.

THROUGH JANUARY 9

Ocala Symphony Orchestra: Rustic Songs and Dances

Tony A. Blue, American Painter

Ocala International Airport, 1770 SW 60th Ave., Ocala Airport hours Blue’s exhibits include work in acrylics, mixed media and photographs. His colorful, abstract paintings are inspired by Florida’s tropical natural landscape. The exhibit is free and open to the public during airport hours. For more information, visit ocalafl.gov/artincityspaces

Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE 9th Ave., Ocala 7:30pm The evening will present a new twist on classical music, featuring lively festival music from the medieval and renaissance times. Tickets are $10$40 and can be purchased at reillyartscenter.com

NOVEMBER 24

THROUGH JANUARY 14

Sit Down for Stand Up!

“Skylines to Hemlines: Art Deco Design”

Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE 9th Ave., Ocala 8pm Three hilarious comics hit the stage for this evening of fun. See Johnny B, Sean Harper and Lauren Dufault. Tickets are $15 and can be purchased at reillyartscenter.com

Appleton Museum of Art, 4333 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala Tuesday-Saturdays 10am-5pm This new exhibit from the museum’s permanent collections brings together an overview of 20th Century art, design, fashion, jewelry and more, focused on the unique movement of Art Deco. The collections include antique clothing, designed items, sculpture, posters, photographs and other artwork. For more information, see appletonmuseum.org

THROUGH NOVEMBER 26

“The Velocity of Autumn”

Ocala Civic Theatre, 4337 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala Times vary, see website This lively two-person play is a dramatic comedy about an artist mother and her desperate son as they come to terms with aging, creativity and generational dynamics. Tickets are $30 for adults and $15 for ages 18 and younger. Visit ocalacivictheatre.com for tickets and more information.

Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place, 1821 NW 21st Ave., Ocala Community center hours Couple Diana and William Lee exhibit work in side-by-side exhibitions, each with its own distinctive style and theme reflecting each artist and their different approaches. The exhibit is part of the Ocala Art in City Spaces program. See ocalafl.gov/artincityspaces for more information.

The Beauty of Nature and Recyclable Refuse

NOVEMBER 19

THROUGH JANUARY 28

“The Unscene South” by Charles Eady

NOVEMBER 17

NOVEMBER 21

The Yellow Pony World Equestrian Center Ocala, 8510 NW 17th Lane, Ocala 6pm

Charlie Horse 2426 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala 6pm

Electric Chaos

Noah Hunton

NOVEMBER 17

NOVEMBER 23

Charlie Horse 2426 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala 7pm

The Yellow Pony World Equestrian Center Ocala, 8510 NW 17th Lane, Ocala 6pm

Miguel Miranda

Claire Vandiver

NOVEMBER 17

NOVEMBER 24

Homestead Park 1050 NE 6th Blvd., Williston 7pm

The Yellow Pony World Equestrian Center Ocala, 8510 NW 17th Lane, Ocala 6pm

Electric Chaos

Sandra & Alex LeKid

NOVEMBER 18

NOVEMBER 24

Charlie Horse 2426 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala 7pm

The Yellow Pony World Equestrian Center Ocala, 8510 NW 17th Lane, Ocala 6pm

Noah Hunton

Houston Keen

NOVEMBER 18

NOVEMBER 24

Homestead Park 1050 NE 6th Blvd., Williston 4pm-7pm

Homestead Park 1050 NE 6th Blvd., Williston 7pm

West 27

Hat Trick

NOVEMBER 18

NOVEMBER 25

Charlie Horse 2426 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala 7pm

Tipsy Sparrows

Bag O Bones

NOVEMBER 19

NOVEMBER 25

The Yellow Pony World Equestrian Center Ocala, 8510 NW 17th Lane, Ocala 6pm

KennaDee

Charlie Horse 2426 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala 7pm

KennaDee

District Bar & Kitchen 110 SW Broadway St, Ocala 12pm-3pm

The Yellow Pony World Equestrian Center Ocala, 8510 NW 17th Lane, Ocala 6pm

Appleton Museum of Art, 4333 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala 10am-5pm, Tuesday-Saturday This new exhibit from artist Charles Eady focuses on the daily lives of “free Blacks” from the Civil War era. He is a contemporary mixed-media artist and author. Visit appletonmuseum.org for more information.

THROUGH JANUARY 28

THROUGH DECEMBER 12

“Patternz” by Kelsey Mahoney

“Bold and Inspired: Native American Regalia” and “Abstract Island Expressions”

music nightlife nig ghtlife

Ocala City Hall, 110 SE Watula Ave., Ocala Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm The city continues its Art in City Spaces program with this exhibit by emerging artist Kelsey Mahoney. Her abstract work is filled with vibrant colors and mosaic themes. The exhibit is free to the public. For more information, visit ocalafl.gov/ artincityspaces

“Caught Up in History and Captured on Film” by Randy Batista

Appleton Museum of Art, 4333 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala 10am-5pm, Tuesday-Saturday Batista’s work focuses on Florida and Cuba, two places that had profound impact on the artist. This exhibit features club members of The Spanish Center of Tampa and their daily lives. visit appletonmuseum.org for more information.

KennaDee

VISIT OUR EVENTS CALENDAR ONLINE OCALAGAZETTE.COM/EVENTS

Current Adoption Specials: “Ocala Gazette” regularly brings you three furry friends that are available for adoption from local animal rescue organizations.

Mark

Although Mark is only thirteen weeks old, he already has the look of a stately gentlemen. Can’t you just see him now in a tuxedo or a smoking jacket?

Kaze

Eight-year-old Kaze is looking for a soft place to rest, and a nice home where he can feel special. Thunderstorms are very scary for this cute guy, but a nice dog bed and companionship gives him great comfort. If you like snuggly dogs, we’d like you to meet Kaze!

November is Adopt a Senior Month! Fees are waived for all pets over seven years of age. All others are free in exchange for a few non-perishable items for the Bring the Harvest Home food pantry campaign.

Visit MarionFL.org/Animal

Cowboy

Seven-year-old Cowboy dreams of the country life, but he also knows how to walk nicely on a leash for cityliving. This cutie even has some basic obedience skills. This loyal senior would make an excellent sidekick!

NOVEMBER 17 - NOVEMBER 23, 2023 | OCALA GAZETTE Public Notice

Public Notice

IN THE COUNTY COURT OF THE FIFTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA Case No. 2022-CC-1323 Lakeview Woods property owners ASSOCIATION, INC., a Florida not for profit corporation, Plaintiff, vs. The unknown assigns, successors in INTEREST, TRUSTEES, OR ANY OTHER PARTY CLAIMING BY, THROUGH, UNDER, OR AGAINST ALICIA E. CORVERA , AS TRUSTEE OF THE CASTILLO LAND TRUST DATED JULY 11, 2004, Defendant(s). NOTICE OF SALE UNDER FLORIDA STATUTES CHAPTER 45 NOTICE IS GIVEN that, in accordance with the Final Summary Judgment of Foreclosure and Monetary Judgment and Taxation of Attorney’s Fees and Costs entered on or about October 18, 2023, in the above-styled cause, the Clerk of Court in and for Marion County, Florida, will sell to the highest and best bidder for cash by electronic sale at www.marion. realforeclose.com , on December 5, 2023, at 11:00 a.m., the following described real property: Lot 3, Block C, Trails East Subdivision, according to the plat thereof as recorded in Plat Book Z, Page(s) 37 to 40, of the Public Records of Marion County, Florida. Marion County Property Appraiser Parcel ID No.: 31982-003-03 . Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the lis pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale. CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE I HEREBY CERTIFY that a true and correct copy of the foregoing has been furnished by U.S. Mail or Eservice on this 1 day of November, 2023, to: The Unknown Assigns, Successors In Interest, Trustees, or Any Other Party Claiming By, Through, Under, or Against Alicia E. Corvera , As Trustee of the Castillo Land Trust Dated July 11, 2004 , 4225 B4 Miller Road, #190, Flint, Michigan 48507; Ramunno Law Firm, P.A., Kyle Hope, Esquire, khope. rfl@gmail.com ; and Blanchard Merriam, Adel, Kirkland & Green, P.A., btropello@ bmaklaw.com and maleman@bmaklaw. com . JUDICIOUS LAW, P.A. By: BRADFORD J. TROPELLO, ESQUIRE bjt@judiciouslawpa.com ma@judiciouslawpa.com Post Office Box 369 Ocala, Florida 34478 (352) 509-5015 Florida Bar No.: 42694

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA. IN RE: THE ESTATE OF VERNON F. TREMBLAY, Deceased. CASE NO: 2023-CP-2674 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: June 17, 2023. The date of first publication of this Notice is November 17, 2023.

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA. IN RE: THE ESTATE OF CARMEN COLON, Deceased. CASE NO: 2023-CP-2558 NOTICE TO CREDITORS The name of the decedent, the designation of the court in which the administration of this estate is pending, and the file number are indicated above. The address of the court is 110 N.W. 1st Avenue, Ocala, FL 34475. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are indicated below. If you have been served with a copy of this notice and you have any claim or demand against the decedent’s estate, even if that claim is unmatured, contingent or unliquidated, you must file your claim with the court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF A DATE THAT IS 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER YOU RECEIVE A COPY OF THIS NOTICE. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons who have claims or demands against the decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, must file their claims with the court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT SO FILED WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. EVEN IF A CLAIM IS NOT BARRED BY THE LIMITATIONS DESCRIBED ABOVE, ALL CLAIMS WHICH HAVE NOT BEEN FILED WILL BE BARRED TWO YEARS AFTER DECEDENT’S DEATH. The date of death of the decedent is: May 21, 2022. The date of first publication of this Notice is November 10, 2023.

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA. IN RE: THE ESTATE OF PAMELA H. FISCHER, Deceased. CASE NO: 2023-CP-2542 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: October 3, 2023. The date of first publication of this Notice is November 10, 2023.

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA. IN RE: THE ESTATE OF ROBERT L. FISCHER, Deceased. CASE NO: 2023-CP-2544 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: October 3, 2023. The date of first publication of this Notice is November 10, 2023.

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA. IN RE: THE ESTATE OF THOMAS J. BELL, Deceased. CASE NO: 2023-CP-2541 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: September 7, 2023. The date of first publication of this Notice is November 10, 2023.

Attorney for Personal Representative: JOSHUA L. MOSES Richard & Moses, LLC Florida Bar No. 119304 808 E Fort King Street Ocala, FL 34471 (352) 369-1300 Primary Email: Josh@RMProbate.com

Personal Representative: LISA VASQUEZ 2843 NE 18th Court, Ocala, FL 34470

Personal Representative: DIANA TORRES 15 Fir Trail Drive Ocala, FL 34472

Personal Representative: CHERYL L. FLESHER 712 SE 34th Terrace Ocala, FL 34471

Personal Representative: JAMESETTA CHRISTIAN 1947 Janet Ln Decatur, GA 30035

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Middletons

Gasoline Alley

ANSWERS FOR PAGE B2 Sudoku Animal Crackers

Jumble Broom Hilda

Crossword WHIRL TRULY SONATA ATRIUM

When asked what body of water was named after Magellan, he answered -“STRAIT” AWAY

NOVEMBER 17 - NOVEMBER 23, 2023 | OCALA GAZETTE

Marine Corps birthday recognized in Ocala

Marine Corps veteran Robert Levenson cuts the cake at a 248th Marine Corps birthday celebration on Nov. 10, 2023, hosted by Marion County Veterans Helping Veterans and held at the Marion County Veterans Service Center in Ocala. [Andy Fillmore]

By Andy Fillmore andy@ocalagazette.com

Veterans Helping Veterans, which is housed in the venue. Teichmann, 92, served from 1951 to 1979 and flew fighter aircraft in the Korean and Vietnam wars. The former volunteer with Disabled American Veterans and Marion County Veterans Helping Veterans said he was honored by getting the first piece of cake. He said he enjoys the “camaraderie” with fellow Marines, especially on the birthday, and feels the

avid Teichmann was honored as the senior Marine with the first piece of cake at a U.S. Marine Corps 248th birthday celebration on Friday Nov. 10, at Marion County Veterans Service Center at 2730 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala. The celebration was hosted by Marion County

Marine Corps will always be there when needed. The cake at the gathering was decorated with the Marine Corps emblem, the years 1775 -2023, and the motto “Semper Fi.” A tradition explained at the gathering was that the senior Marine is recognized with the first piece of cake and that person serves the second piece to the youngest Marine. Dick DeBoy was recognized as youngest Marine at the gathering. He is a longtime volunteer with Maron County Veterans Helping Veterans. Veteran Robert Levenson, in USMC uniform, cut the sheet cake using a saber. Marine veteran Christine Webster also joined the celebration. She served a 22 ½-year career in the Marine Corps, including two deployments overseas. The gathering Friday included a Prisoner of War remembrance table set with items reflecting a missing comrade and a video on the mission of the Marine Corps. The Marine Corps birthday is an annual celebration of the founding of two battalions of Marines by the Second Continental Congress in 1775, according to Marine Corps University.com. Celebrations prior to 1921 were held on a different date but in 1921, Nov. 10 was set as the official date to mark the birthday of the Corps, according to the website. By 1937, formal birthday celebrations were a regular occurrence, the site states.

To learn more, go to bit.ly/marion-veterans-services and vhvusa.org

IHMC Lecture Series Powered by:

Morley Stone THE TALK: The Quantified Human – future opportunities and implications for healthspan, resilience and performance

www.ihmc.com 15 S.E. Osceola Avenue Downtown Ocala Co-hosted by:

Tuesday December 5, 2023 Reception: Begins at 5:30 p.m. Talk:

Begins at 6:00 p.m. Seating is limited RSVP to ihmc-20230223.eventbrite.com or call 352-387-3050

More than a decade after publishing The Quantified Warrior, an even more transformative future exists for redefining healthspan, resilience and performance with the rapid pace of technological improvement surrounding wearables, their associated data, and our ever-increasing understanding of the data with respect to human physiology and overall performance. In this presentation, I will talk about a feedback loop we refer to as Sense-Assess-Augment (SAA), a concept that underpins our view of the quantified human. While this work has its roots in military-specific examples I will cover, the application of this concept goes well beyond the military, with future examples in rehabilitation, neuromuscular disease, healthspan and more broadly, a future of human-machine teaming that will be ubiquitous in our everyday lives.

Dr. Morley Stone is Chief Strategic Partnership Officer and Senior Research Scientist at the Florida Institute for Human & Machine Cognition (IHMC) and CEO of Mined XAI LLC. Previously, Dr. Stone served as the Senior Vice President for Research at The Ohio State University (2018-2021) and prior to OSU, Morley served as the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) for the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) from 2014 to 2018. Before that, he served for more than six years as the Chief Scientist of AFRL’s 711th Human Performance Wing and from 2003 to 2006, he was a Program Manager in the Defense Sciences Office (DSO) of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA). While in government service, Morley was awarded the Office of the Secretary of Defense Medal for Exceptional Civilian Service, the Federal 100 Award, and the Presidential Rank Award for Meritorious Service. In total, Morley spent 29 years with AFRL and its predecessor organizations, starting with the labs as a student intern in 1989. He is a Fellow of both AFRL and SPIE (International Society for Optics and Photonics). Dr. Stone earned his PhD in biochemistry from Carnegie Mellon University and his research interests are broad spanning areas such as the interface of materials science, biotechnology, human performance, and autonomous systems. Personally, Morley has been married to Kelly for over 32 years, they reside in Pensacola and have two grown children, Carson and Caleb.

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Lecture Sponsors:

HOSPICE OF MARION COUNTY CELEBRATES 40 YEARS

By Caroline Brauchler caroline@ocalagazette.com

ospice of Marion County celebrated its 40-year anniversary with a gala on Nov. 6, complete with dinner, dancing and live music. The celebration, held at the Ocala Hilton, recognized several community leaders and contributors to Hospice’s success over the past four decades. Carol Balbes was recognized as the organization’s longestserving volunteer with 30 years of service. Tom Howard was recognized for

his service to the We Honor Veterans program. Damian and Audrey Romano were recognized for their years of volunteer service organizing fundraising projects. “It’s appropriate that we celebrated this milestone event during National Hospice and Palliative Care month,” said Hospice of Marion County CEO Rick Bourne in a press release. “Hospice of Marion County has been serving its community since Jan. 11, 1983 with exceptional endof-life care and is looking forward to the next 40 years,” Bourne added.

CITY OF OCALA TO HOST COOKING OIL RECYCLING DAY

By Caroline Brauchler caroline@ocalagazette.com

fter Thanksgiving, the city of Ocala will host a day for residents to bring their used cooking oil for disposal to help prevent negative environmental impacts. Residents can bring used cooking oil, such as what many will use to deep fry a turkeys, in a sealed container to the Ocala Wetland Recharge Park, 2105 NW 21st St., from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Nov. 27. Residents should allow the

oil to cool then pour it into a plastic container or jug with a lid and bring the container to the recycling area. “Pouring fats, oils, and grease (F.O.G.) down a drain will coat the inside of pipes and solidify, restrict the flow of wastewater and potentially cause a sewer backup or overflow,” according to a city press release. For more information, call the city of Ocala Water Resources Department at (352) 351-6772 or visit ocalafl.gov/government/ city-departments-i-z/waterresources/protect-your-pipes.

NOVEMBER 17 - NOVEMBER 23, 2023 | OCALA GAZETTE

Frogs were Florida’s first-known vertebrates from the Caribbean

Vallejo-Pareja’s research utilized many frog fossils that had sat, unstudied, in collections for many decades. [Kristen Grace/Florida Museum]

By Jiayu Liang Florida Museum

eep in the forests of Haiti lives the blueeyed La Hotte glanded frog (Eleutherodactylus glandulifer), which once went 20 years without being observed by scientists. It belongs to a diverse genus from the Caribbean that also includes the much more common coquí frog (Eleutherodactylus coquí), a cultural icon in Puerto Rico. Now, a new fossil study shows that frogs from the genus Eleutherodactylus are geologically the oldest Caribbean vertebrates to be found in Florida. They also arrived in North America much earlier than previously thought. Although scientists knew some North American frogs had origins in the Caribbean, they lacked fossil evidence showing when and how this movement had occurred. María Vallejo-Pareja, a graduate student at the University of Florida, used understudied fossil collections to connect the dots. “There was a gap in knowledge, but the answer was under our noses the whole time,” said Vallejo-Pareja, first author of the paper. “We already had the fossils, which were collected from the 1970s through the 1990s. We just hadn’t worked on them.” Scientists have an incomplete record of the evolutionary history of frogs. Data analyses show that frog families underwent rapid diversification after the CretaceousPaleogene mass extinction that famously killed off the dinosaurs 66 million years ago. Frogs continued to diversify for the next several million

years. They first show up in Florida’s fossil record during the Oligocene Epoch, which lasted from around 34 to 23 million years ago. However, records from these eras are patchy. This is because frogs are understudied in comparison with other vertebrate groups, with frog paleontology being an especially small field. This posed a challenge when researchers at the Florida Museum uncovered an abundance of frog fossils at paleontological sites in Florida dating back to the Oligocene, including the Brooksville 2 and Live Oak SB-1A locations. Since frogs weren’t a research priority when many of the fossils were collected from the 1970s through the 1990s, they were put in storage, where they sat, unstudied, until Vallejo-Pareja’s project. Vallejo-Pareja compared fossils found at the sites in Florida with existing collections containing specimens from both extinct and living frogs, including the Florida Museum’s samples of the La Hotte glanded frog. She found that most of the collected fossils belong to the genus Eleutherodactylus, commonly referred to as rain frogs or robber frogs. Rain frogs have a history of moving around. They originated in the Caribbean from an ancestor that dispersed from South America as early as 47 million years ago during the Eocene Epoch. Once on the islands, the ancestral population rapidly diversified into several species through a process called adaptive radiation. The finches that Charles Darwin documented in the Galapagos Islands, where one migrant species

quickly evolved into at least 13 different species as it filled new feeding niches, are a classic example of this. Today, rain frogs are found in the Caribbean and parts of Central and North America. The oldest known fossil from the genus belongs to the coquí frog, which has been in Caribbean forests for at least 29 million years. In the 1970s and ’80s, it was unintentionally imported to Florida and Hawaii on nursery plants and is now considered an invasive species in both states. DNA analysis led scientists to believe that Caribbean frogs in the genus Eleutherodactylus first arrived in Central America during the middle Miocene Epoch, 16 to 11 million years ago, before dispersing to North America. The fossils from this study, however, show rain frogs were in Florida during the late Oligocene, several million years before their recorded dispersal into Central America. Rain frogs are evidently good at getting around, but it’s not clear how they made it to Florida. Overwater dispersal on flotsam or other buoyant debris seems the likeliest scenario, but most of the Florida peninsula was still underwater when the frogs are estimated to have arrived. The increased distance between land would have made their journey even longer and more perilous than it would be today. It is possible there were different dispersal events, but Vallejo-Pareja says that hypothesis would need to be tested by finding more fossils in Central America. Because frogs are small and highly mobile, however, it is easy to underestimate the presence of frogs in an area and hard to track their dispersal. “These fossils are millimeters big,” Vallejo-Pareja said. The smallest fossil frog was estimated to measure only 16 millimeters from snout to rear end, smaller than a U.S. penny. “So, getting to work with them, without breaking or losing them, was a breathtaking moment. And I mean that literally, because if I’m sitting at the microscope with my fossil and I sneeze or breathe too hard, it’s gone.” While rain frogs are widespread throughout North and Central America now, these findings suggest Florida was a first home, where they had interesting company. Other extinct animals from Live Oak SB-1A and Brooksville 2, the sites where rain frog fossils were found in abundance, included bear-dogs, bonecrushing dogs, a weasel-like carnivore, squirrels, beavers and rabbits. Eleutherodactylus is by far the earliest known account of a Caribbean vertebrate spreading to Florida. Fossil evidence indicates there were rodents and salamanders that made the reverse trip, moving from North America to the Caribbean during the Oligocene and Miocene, but evidence for movement from the islands to Florida is scarce. Caribbean toads, snakes and lizards crossed over during the following epoch, the Miocene, but these records are inconclusive and require further study. Vallejo-Pareja hopes the methodology and data created by her

paper will help bolster frog paleontology research and expressed admiration for the good work that has already been done. We just need more of it, she said. She created digital 3D models of the fossil bones used in the study, generating more information for people interested in the field. Paleontologists might find a frog bone and not realize what it is, she said. Now, they have an additional reference point. In the future, Vallejo-Pareja wants to use some of the methods she developed in this study to understand how frogs adapt to environmental changes. Although frogs have managed to survive a number of major extinction events, they are very responsive to changes in variables like temperature and precipitation. “What happened to the frogs during a glacial maximum?” she asked. “Were they smaller or bigger? Did they decrease or increase in diversity? Did they survive? It would be very nice to take a look into the past and see how frogs responded.” The Florida Museum’s Edward Stanley, Jonathan Bloch and David C Blackburn also co-authored the study. The work was funded in part by the National Science Foundation (DBI-1701714), the Southwest Florida Fossil Society and COLCIENCIAS (Colombia).

To learn more, go to floridamuseum.ufl.edu

Vallejo-Pareja compared bones from extinct and living frog species to determine what genus the collected fossils belonged to. [Kristen Grace/Florida Museum]

Many of the fossils used in this study were initially collected from the 1970s through the 1990s. They sat unstudied for decades because frogs weren’t a research priority at collection time. [Kristen Grace/Florida Museum]

Vallejo-Pareja hopes the 3D scans she made as part of this research will support the small but mighty field of frog paleontology. [Kristen Grace/Florida Museum]

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NOVEMBER 17 - NOVEMBER 23, 2023 | OCALA GAZETTE

Sports West Port rolls past Trinity Catholic SCOREBOARD Carter’s 3 goals pace Wolf Pack over Celtics By Mark Pinson Special to the Ocala Gazette

Photos by Bruce Ackerman Ocala Gazette

est Port senior Victoria Carter celebrated her birthday in grand fashion by scoring three goals and assisting on four others to lead the Wolf Pack past Trinity Catholic by a score of 8-0 on Nov. 8. Both Class 7A West Port and Class 3A Trinity Catholic evened their records at 1-1 for the season. “It’s a great start to our season and we had an opportunity to get all of our players in the game,” said Wolf Pack third-year coach Katherine Kelly. “We had multiple players score goals and Victoria, who is a team captain, celebrated her 18th birthday with a hat trick and I’m very proud of her. We’re starting to focus on some of the more tactical aspects of the game and I’m glad we were able to execute so well.” Celtics coach Kathy West Port’s Sama Jaber (14) battles with the ball with Trinity Catholic’s Alexsa Benitez (14) during a soccer match at McLean said her team was West Port High School in Ocala on Wednesday, Nov. 8, 2023. slow getting started. “We started off a little deer in the headlights, but we made some adjustments after the first water break and put ourselves back in the game,” McLean said. “The girls played hard and put up a good fight. We are young and inexperienced and will get better with each game we play.” West Port, which features 12 seniors on its roster, dominated possession of the ball against the younger and less-experienced Trinity Catholic players in the opening minutes of the match. The Wolf Pack, which had 15 shots on goal, took the lead when senior Kameryn Knowles scored from 30 yards out 10 minutes into the first half. Trinity Catholic managed a couple of shots on goal before West Port extended its lead as senior midfielder Jamie Drake netted backWest Port’s Kameryn Knowles (5) heads the ball past Trinity Catholic’s McKenna Yates (17). to-back goals to put the Wolf Pack on top by a score of 3-0. Trinity Catholic had an excellent scoring opportunity when sophomore Alexsa Benitez gained control of a loose ball in front of the goal, but her shot sailed just over the cross bar to keep the Celtics scoreless. West Port added a goal off a nice run by senior Daisy Aguirre to take a 4-0 lead into the half. “We were running a new formation tonight and executed it pretty well,” coach Kelly said. West Port continued to move the ball with solid passing and good vision against the Trinity Catholic defense. The Wolf Pack tallied a pair of goals, one by Carter, the other she set up with a nice crossing pass to make it 6-0 midway through the second half. Trinity Catholic, which had eight shots on goal, continued to play hard and just missed getting on the scoreboard on several occasions. West Port senior Caitlyn Murphy scored on a rebound and Carter followed a few minutes later with her third goal of the game to make the score 8-0. The game was called because of the mercy rule. “With 12 seniors on the team this is going to be a special season,” coach Kelly said. “We’re starting to finally build some team chemistry.” West Port’s Victoria Carter (10) takes the ball away from Trinity Catholic’s Rilyn Reardon (18).

SELECTED MARION COUNTY

HIGH SCHOOL & COLLEGE

SPORTS RESULTS NOV. 6 - NOV. 10 Results were compiled by Allen Barney

Trinity Catholic’s goalie Elizabeth Fernandez (98) and Rilyn Reardon (18) watch as a West Port kick flies past them both for a goal during a soccer match at West Port High School in Ocala on Wednesday, Nov. 8, 2023. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2023.

FOOTBALL SCORES

Redeemer Christian Lake Weir

1 5

November 10

P.K. Yonge North Marion

4 2

West Port Ocoee

2 3

Class 2-Suburban Region 3 Quarterfinal Hudson Dunnellon

6 28

Class 3-Suburban Region 2 Quarterfinal River Ridge Vanguard

0 36

November 6

BOYS’ SOCCER SCORES November 6 Columbia Forest

GIRLS’ SOCCER SCORES Trinity Catholic South Sumter

6 1

Vanguard West Port

9 1

0 3

November 7 Forest Horizon

1 0

West Port Vanguard

5 3

Seven Rivers Christian Belleview

9 5

Redeemer Christian Saint Francis Catholic

1 2

Dunnellon Oak Hall

1 4

Dunnellon Oak Hall

1 7

November 8 Belleview North Marion

8 0

Dunnellon Belleview

0 8

Trinity Catholic West Port

0 8

North Marion Eustis

2 4

November 9 Santa Fe Vanguard

0 8

Trinity Catholic Vanguard

2 4

West Port Citrus

3 1

Windermere Prep Redeemer Christian

8 0

November 10 Forest Gainesville

1 2

Trinity Catholic Lake Weir

8 0

November 7

November 8

November 9

November 10 Gainesville Forest

Finn’s Removal

Recycle, Reuse, Refurbish Clean out house’s, attics, garages & storage units. Also do deliveries & demo hot tubs. Donations accepted West Port’s Ally Jones (2) moves the ball downfield past Trinity Catholic’s Madison Boyd (16).

West Port’s Victoria Carter (10) and Trinity Catholic’s Madison Pozeg (23) battle for control of the ball.

352-322-8154

B10

NOVEMBER 17 - NOVEMBER 23, 2023 | OCALA GAZETTE