CF’s production of
“The Hunchback of Notre Dame”
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s one young singer from Ocala stood before musical legends Lionel Richie, Luke Bryan and Katy Perry to sing his heart out, even under studio lights in Nashville he showed his humility and talent to the world. Emery Robbins had the opportunity of a lifetime when the 18-year-old auditioned for Season 22 of “American Idol,” winning over the hearts of the judges and earning a golden ticket to Hollywood to become a contestant. “I’m just a kid from Ocala with a guitar,” Robbins said. Now that “American Idol” has aired Robbins’ three votes of ‘yes’
Former firefighter with cancer files lawsuit against county after being denied health benefits By Caroline Brauchler caroline@ocalagazette.com
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ormer firefighter Phillip Shinn has filed a lawsuit as an individual against Marion County after his claim for cancer benefits was denied. After retiring from Marion County Fire Rescue in February of 2016, Shinn was diagnosed with multiple myeloma in August of 2022. Although Shinn had been See Firefighter, page A5
from the judges, viewers can tune in to follow the contestants to Hollywood in the next episode, airing on ABC at 8 p.m. on March 31. Robbins auditioned back in November 2023, and was shown in the first episode of the season on February 18 holding his golden ticket. Robbins couldn’t say much about his future on the show to avoid spoiling the rest of the season but said he was not only grateful but also humbled to earn the chance to perform in Hollywood. “You’re just so captivated by everything that’s going on, with the lights and the cameras,’’ Robbins said. “I just tried my best to be as real as I could.” The singer said he’s somewhat of a new musician. He taught himself See Golden, page A2
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Pg B6
MARCH 29 - APRIL 4, 2024
By Caroline Brauchler caroline@ocalagazette.com
VOLUME 5 ISSUE 13
Emery Robbins, 18, a Forest High School graduate who recently appeared on American Idol, poses for a photo in downtown Ocala on Tuesday, March 26, 2024. Robbins passed the American Idol auditions in Nashville and will be heading to Hollywood. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2024.
MCHD trustees to discuss creating a low-barrier homeless shelter in Ocala By Jennifer Hunt Murty jennifer@ocalagazette.com
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uring a March 25 Marion County Hospital District meeting a trustee offered to transfer a contract to purchase a building to the district which could eventually be used to meet the increasing demand for housing the homeless. Although the topic was not on the meeting agenda, Rich Bianculli told his fellow trustees the board should include serving the homeless as a pillar initiative of the district. Bianculli pointed to the new law recently signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis that prohibits homeless people from sleeping on public property. The law has left communities across the state
wondering how they will fund solutions to their homeless situation and how they will enforce the measure when it goes into effect on Oct. 1. To meet the growing need for shelter beds, Bianculli proposed that the board take over a real estate contract he had entered into for a building he felt would best be utilized as a low barrier shelter. Bianculli did not provide the address to the property during the meeting but described the parcel as the “old domestic violence shelter.” The “Gazette” believes the building Bianculli was referencing is located at 2010 Pine Ave. The domestic violence facility closed when it lost necessary funding last year. Bianculli told the trustees that he had entered into a real estate contract to purchase See Homeless, page A3
Property of the week Luxurious living awaits – within the 55+ portion of Ocala Preserve, this vibrant 2-bedroom, 2.5-bath home is a vibrant option! From the brick driveway to the gated front patio, every detail of the home exudes sophistication. Inside, the open layout is accented by crown molding, large windows, and detail-oriented finishes. Entertain with ease in the gourmet kitchen, complete with a wet bar and inviting dining area. A large Florida room, expansive patio, and fenced yard are perfect for enjoying year-round sunshine. With resort-style amenities and many nearby attractions including WEC, this is truly Ocala living at its finest! Kathy Prater | 352.817.4144 | Kathy@ShowcaseOcala.com | ShowcaseOcala.com Valerie Dailey | 352.816.1080 | Valerie@ShowcaseOcala.com | ShowcaseOcala.com
Rich Bianculli speaks during a meeting of the Marion County Hospital District on East Silver Springs Boulevard in Ocala on Monday, March 25, 2024. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2024.
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