OG Digital Edition 10-03-2025

Preserving artifacts Pg B6

Marion County lowers millage rate

The reduction was made possible by a one-time use of COVID-19 relief fund interest.

By Jennifer Hunt Murty jennifer@ocalagazette.com

Marion County commissioners on Sept. 22 adopted a $1.66 billion budget for the 2025-26 fiscal year and cut the countywide millage rate to 4.02 mills, one of the lowest in Florida.

The reduction, from 4.29 mills set during the July budget hearing, means taxpayers will pay $4.02 for every $1,000 of taxable property value for a savings of $2.70 every $1,000 taxable value.

For a home assessed at $300,000 after homestead and other exemptions, that would add up to about $81 in tax savings.

Commissioners avoided service cuts by shifting to the general fund $7.8 million in interest earned from federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds sent to Marion County as part of then-President Joe Biden’s COVID-19 economic relief plan.

Commissioners previously approved increases in the solid waste assessment from $87 to $215 and fire rescue from $199.91 to $283.97 per dwelling unit while stormwater assessments stayed flat.

Audry Fowler, budget director for Marion County, cautioned commissioners that the reallocation of ARPA interest dollars is a onetime occurrence that could cause hurdles for staff the next budget year to maintain the rate.

Commission Chair Kathy Bryant discounted that concern and indicated that commissioners should have latitude on budget matters.

“This board should be able to lower or raise millage rate as needed when they can make that argument and it is clear and concise to the citizens of this community,” she said. “And I think by taking this money and showing the citizens that when we do have that type of

Silver River Museum postpones student field trips amid monkey concerns

By Jennifer Hunt Murty jennifer@ocalagazette.com

The Silver River Museum has suspended weekday student field trips after concerns about increased monkey activity observed in Silver Springs State Park, where the museum is located.

“Out of an abundance of caution, the museum has temporarily postponed weekday student field trips due to increased animal activity in our area,” museum director Scott Mitchell said in an email. “We expect the weekday closure to be in effect for several weeks. The museum remains open to the public as normal on weekends.”

Mitchell said the decision was precautionary and not based on official guidance.

“We’ve not received information from other agencies regarding the risk the monkeys pose,” he said. “State park management has asked that we refer

See Monkey concerns, page A10

Lights, camera, action

By Susan Smiley-Height susan@magnoliamediaco.com

The Ocala Film Derby helps foster creativity, collaboration and artistic expression through filmmaking. The event brings together teachers, mentors, producers, organizers and sponsors, and culminates with an awards celebration at the historic Marion Theatre in downtown Ocala. This year’s event took place from Sept. 24 to 28 and included eight student teams from local middle and high

schools. It included workshops, special presentations and a full day of filming at locations in downtown Ocala. During the final event on Sunday, the teams got to see their films on the big screen and several

Film Derby, page A3 See Millage rate, page A2

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Night of Hope

The annual fundraiser highlighted survivors, honored advocates.

By Jennifer Hunt Murty jennifer@ocalagazette.com

Hundreds attended the annual Night of Hope dinner on Sept. 25, hosted by the Family Violence Prevention Workgroup, to raise awareness and funds to combat domestic violence in Marion County.

The event was held at the College of Central Florida. The workgroup is a program of the Marion County Children’s Alliance.

Event organizers estimated that one in four attendees were survivors of domestic abuse.

The evening featured powerful testimony from survivors and community leaders, as well as the keynote address from Melissa Dohme Hill, who shared her story of survival after she was stabbed 32 times by an abusive former boyfriend in 2012.

Hill, of the Tampa Bay area, recalled how her ex-boyfriend asked for one last hug before he attacked her. Two teenagers passing by intervened and called for help, ultimately saving her life. Hill has since become a nationally recognized advocate, speaking about domestic violence and serving as executive director of Hands Across the Bay.

“My abuser tried to bury me,” Hill told the crowd. “He didn’t know I was a seed. I chose to grow from the dirt I was left in and follow wherever God leads me to blossom and bloom.”

The event honored Karla Greenway as Advocate of the Year

Millage rate

Continued from page A1

money, we will lower their millage, when we come to them and say, ‘OK, we did that this year. But come next year, we know that we’re going to have to raise it a bit.’ I think it makes the relationship between the government and the citizens much stronger, and it makes them have a lot more trust for us when they see what we do with money, when we have it and it’s not assigned to something specifically.”

Not all commissioners supported using the funds to lower the rate.

Commissioner Craig Curry said he preferred to apply the $7.8 million to capital projects.

“I think we need to take the money and look at the capital projects,” he said. “We’ve had a tremendous need in parks and recreation, take that lump sum money and put it somewhere that’s going to be impactful. I mean, doing what you’re talking about doing is watering it down.”

Commissioner Michelle Stone also felt like the money would be better applied to capital projects.

“The citizens of this county expect us to make good, strong decisions on behalf of our community,” she said. “I believe

“I don’t know if you realize there is no hotel money in this community right now,” said Monica Bryant, who has led the Family Violence Prevention Workgroup for nearly two decades. “Community Action is not projected to have any utility money until Oct. 1. There’s very little rental assistance or mortgage assistance.”

for her longtime commitment to serving vulnerable residents. Her husband, Shane, introduced her with a heartfelt tribute, calling her “a true force for good in the world.”

A moment of silence was held to remember victims who lost their lives to domestic violence. So far this year, three people in Marion County have died as a result of domestic abuse. Since 1997, 154 lives have been taken.

Local survivors shared stories of escaping abusive marriages and rebuilding after homelessness, underscoring both the challenges victims face and the importance of community support.

Organizers stressed that donations are critical in helping families in crisis.

The group’s fundraising goal was $20,000. Donations still can be made at mcchildrensalliance. networkforgood.com/events/88655night-of-hope-2025

that we’ve had a lot of budget discussions, and there’s a lot of need, there’s a lot of capital needs, the Parks and Recreation, most especially. How many times have we had conversations about that, received emails, how our parks are failing with what we have today, and we don’t have the dollars set aside for it? And we were looking for funding to actually help improve that. This is that opportunity to use those dollars wisely because we’re not going to get the opportunity again. To give somebody a $40 to $60 tax relief is not as beneficial as moving forward the unfunded capital projects that we know we need.”

Bryant pushed back against that notion arguing that to some property owners that was not a lot of money. Ultimately, the board majority

opted to reduce the millage rate for the new fiscal year, which begins Oct. 1. The countywide budget totals $1.125 billion, with another $534 million in non-countywide taxing districts, including fire services, law enforcement and neighborhood taxing units called MSTUs. Those millage rates remained unchanged, including the Fire Rescue MSTU at 1.11 mills.

Commissioners highlighted that the lower millage rate puts Marion County in the state’s lowest 10 for property tax rates. But County Clerk of Court Gregory Harrell underscored the potential risks of using one-time funds for recurring expenses.

“You have to be careful about using one-time revenues to fund ongoing operational expenses because that creates structural imbalance in the budget,” he said.

TEEN FOUND AFTER AMBER ALERT ISSUED

By Andy Fillmore andy@ocalagazette.com

Marion County Sheriff Billy Woods posted a video on the agency’s Facebook page the afternoon of Sept. 29 stating that 17-year-old Caden Speight not only fabricated reports of his abduction four days earlier but also shot himself in the leg in a case that triggered an Amber Alert, drew wide media attention and involved local, state and federal law enforcement.

Caden’s case began with texts to his family indicating he was abducted the afternoon of Sept. 25 by four

men in a van in the 12800 block of Southwest County Road 484. Woods characterized the texts as “false…completely made up.”

Woods stated that investigators learned Caden had purchased a bicycle, tent and camping gear prior to the alleged abduction reports.

Woods indicated initially there were “red flags” in the case, including a witness who reported seeing Caden leave the area of the alleged abduction and ride towards Williston on a bicycle.

Woods said investigators “worked in overdrive” to solve the case. “To continue the ruse, Caden,

who had a handgun with him since the beginning of all of this, chose to shoot himself in the leg, causing a non-life-threatening injury just prior to walking out to the roadway where he would be located by citizens in Williston,” Woods stated.

Woods indicated that charges against Caden and questions about the “taxpayer cost” of the search, which involved air and ground resources, are still items “on the table.”

Woods stated that Caden’s parents will not allow investigators to speak to him and said evidence is still being processed.

Updates will follow when available, the sheriff said.

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

-

Publisher Jennifer Hunt Murty jennifer@ocalagazette.com

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students were presented with scholarships.

This year’s special guests, according to the OFD website, included Kevin J. O’Neill, an award-winning film director, screenwriter and producer; Nola D. Oracl, a multi-award-winning filmmaker, author, military veteran and business consultant; Sage Love, an award-winning, cultural filmmaker, entrepreneur, cinematographer and photographer; R.J. Jenkins, an educator, speaker and community advocate; and Greg Thompson, an award-winning film and theatre artist and executive and artistic director at the Ocala Civic Theatre.

Event mentors included Brody Barcode, Tommy Cuevas, Eddie Dixon, Meagan Gumpert, Dave Miller, Maxwell Minet and Andrew Opitz. Workshop leaders included Mark Emery, Micki Rio, Sean Kinchlow, Noah Paradiso, Frank Gallaher and Faustin Gallegos.

The 2025 Ocala Film Derby winners are:

Judges Choice winner, “A Stroke of Luck,” Cinema Chefs

• Audience Choice winner, “Out of Line,” Big Burgers

• Best Use of Prop, “Through the Umbrella,” The 8 Studded Stars

• Best Use of Character and Best Use of Landmark, “Under the Umbrella,” Curious Apez

• Best Use of Dialogue, “Art of Love,” Rad Action

• The scholarship winners are:

$1,500 - Wise Guys Pizzeria, Isaac Chirichella,

Dunnellon High School

• $1,500 - Wilmek Construction, Rodrigo Escamilla, Vanguard High School

• $1,500 - Florida Natural Beef, Mario Durant, Vanguard High School

• $1,500 - All About You Realty, Marcus Von Rosenberg, Forest High School

• $1,500 - Tom Ingram in honor of Wayne McCall, Hailey Taylor, Belleview High School

$3,000 - Ocala Film Derby Scholarship Fund (Duke

event will raise awareness and funds to support those impacted by domestic violence.

By Susan Smiley-Height

susan@magnoliamediaco.com

More than 3,000 cases of domestic violence are reported in Ocala/Marion County each year. Since the Family Violence Prevention work group, which is part of the Marion County Children’s Alliance, started tracking homicides in 1997, 154 people have died as a result of domestic violence.

“There have been three homicides this year,” said Family Violence Prevention Coordinator Monica Bryant.

The work group, which includes representatives from social services, nonprofit and for-profit agencies, businesses and the community, has hosted two recent events to raise awareness about

domestic violence and to support victims and survivors, and now has the Wear Your Wings 5K Fun Run/Walk set for Oct. 11.

The event will take place at the College of Central Florida, 3001 SW College Road, Ocala. Registration and packet pickup will begin at 7 a.m., with a pre-race celebration at 7:30 a.m. and the run/walk pacing off at 8 a.m.

Zumba instructor Tina Fennelly, a certified personal trainer and health coach, will kick-off the pre-race celebration.

Shirts are guaranteed to the first 150 registrants and there will be medals for the first 150 finishers, along with awards for the top three male and female finishers in each age group.

“This event raises awareness and funds to support victims and survivors of domestic violence and raises critical funds

Energy and Richmond Hill Capital), Luis SemidelLossada, Forest High School

$5, 000 - Friend of Film, Kelvin Rivera Cruz, Forest High School

“This year’s film derby was inspiring and lifechanging for many of our students, or so they told me,” said Laurie Zink, derby chair. “But I was the one inspired by their creativity, talent and courage to participate. Building a film in nine hours is no easy feat and I am so very proud of all of them. Everyone is a winner at the Ocala Film Derby.”

To learn more, go to ocalafilmderby.org

To see our full photo gallery, go to ocalagazette.com/ ocala-film-derby-screening-and-awards

needed to support them in rebuilding their lives,” the work group stated in promotional materials. “Let’s lace up, lift up and show our community what it means to break the silence on domestic violence.”

“We encourage anyone in an abusive relationship to call our 24-hour local domestic violence hotline at (352) 7222272. If they are outside of Marion County, they can call (800) 500-1119. To get involved with the Family Violence Prevention Workgroup, call us at (352) 438-5990,” Bryant said. The cost to participate in the Wear Your Wings event is $35 until Oct. 10 and $40 the day of race. Register at runsignup.com/race/FL/Ocala/ WearYourWings5KFunRunWalk.

By Susan Smiley-Height susan@magnoliamediaco.com

DONATION TO REILLY ARTS CENTER

The Reilly Arts Center has announced that the Country Club of Ocala’s Turnpike Cup Awards raised $15,000 in support of the Reilly’s mission to bring world-class performances, music education and cultural opportunities to Marion County.

The Turnpike Cup has grown from a friendly competition of eight players into a highly organized event with 28 members competing annually in a spirited Ryder Cup-style format. Founded by Bill Searcy, the Turnpike Cup has become a community of players and families who rally together year-round for camaraderie,

competition and philanthropy, the news release noted.

"I am so proud of the whole Turnpike Cup Family," said Searcy in the release. "TPC is all about competition, camaraderie and giving back. This was our seventh season and we have no signs of slowing down. I’m already planning next year’s season and we are heading to The Players Stadium Course at TPC Sawgrass."

The Turnpike Cup season begins with team selections in February, followed by months of themed events, dinners and competitions. The year culminates in the July tournament and the August

CURRY NAMED CHAIR OF PLANNING COUNCIL

The East Central Florida Regional Planning Council recently voted in Marion County Commissioner Craig Curry as chair of its executive committee, effective Oct. 1.

The appointment follows Curry’s years of engagement with the council, most recently serving as vice chair.

“The East Central Florida Regional Planning Council delivers impactful programs that strengthen our region and provide vital support to our partners. I look forward to continuing close collaboration with my fellow board members in the year ahead,” Curry said in the release.

Awards Show. Over the years, the group has raised funds for local organizations including The F.A.S.T.E.R. System, the Marion County Sheriff’s Office K-9 Unit

and other initiatives.

"It's impressive the impact this generous group has had on our community since their efforts began. We were honored

to be selected as their charitable cause and deeply grateful for their support," shared Natalie McComb, executive director of the Reilly, in the release.

ARTS IN HEALTH OCALA METRO RECEIVES GRANT

The National Endowment for the Arts, in partnership with Mid-America Arts Alliance, has announced the 2025 Creative Forces Community Engagement grant recipients, including Arts in Health Ocala Metro. Forty-eight organizations have been awarded grants totaling more than $886,000. These community-based arts projects aim to address the experiences, challenges and strengths of our military communities, according to the

news release. Arts in Health Ocala Metro is honored to be selected as one of the organizations to receive funding for our program, “Art for Veterans” with the Ocala Vet Center. This grant helps fund weekly art sessions for veterans, active-duty service members and their caregivers. These workshops aim to build social connections, foster creative expression and promote resilience and overall wellbeing, the release stated.

Church outreach outgrows space

The Wings of Faith “food drop” distribution events have moved to the Rotary Sportsplex Park.

By Andy Fillmore andy@ocalagazette.com

Alocal church has moved its food distribution events to a nearby county park after the increased response outgrew the church’s neighborhood.

Wings of Faith Fellowship Church and longtime food distribution partner Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida joined two of the church’s ministries, His Compassion Food Bank of Ocala and Operation Compassion, to hold its first “food drop” distribution at the Rotary Sportsplex Park on Sept.24.

Rocky Shrable, lead pastor at Wings of Faith Fellowship, which is located at 5066 SE 64th Ave. Road in Silver Springs Shores, said the food distribution events grew to the point where traffic around the church became a concern, with as many as an estimated 500 cars served by last month’s event at the church’s property.

Shrable said church officials approached Marion County Commissioner Carl Zalak and Marion County Parks and Recreation officials, including Jim Couillard and Charles Ryan, about moving the food distribution to the Rotary Sportsplex Park to facilitate the

increasing turn out.

The sportsplex, located at 5220 SE Maricamp Road, is an 80-acre facility with 16 fields and easy access on and off the busy thoroughfare.

The event there on the 24th saw more than 10 tons of food given to 336 families by about 50

volunteers, according to Wings of Faith’s Global Outreach Missions Director, the Rev. Dale Broom.

Broom said the USDA value of the food was $46,819 and that 69% of the items were considered USDA “healthy,” which included produce and some dairy products.

Hope Sullivan of Ocala drove through the line and said she was happy to see the event and fellowship following a family emergency.

Broom explained that the Operation Compassion ministry of Wings of Faith has operated a weekly food pantry for about 20 years with support from Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida. Broom said the “food drops” in partnership with Second Harvest are held at least monthly, with 10 so far this year. He said His Compassion Food Bank, a ministry of Wings of Faith Fellowship but a separate 501(c) nonprofit organization, has now joined the effort.

The response to the “food drops” had simply outgrown the

By Andy Fillmore andy@ocalagazette

ability of the church property and nearby roadways to accommodate, Broom said.

The recent food drop saw 42 volunteers from multiple area churches and Publix Supermarkets, and five church staff members, work a combined total of 231 hours to distribute the food, Broom stated.

The volunteers included Jennie Lee Quinones, Christine Morton, Margie Farrington, Sanford Slagstad, Julie Barnes, Chris Taylor and Laura Franklin.

The Rev. Edwin Quintana, a former Ocala Police Department chaplain and head of the Inter Americas Chaplain Association, was recently installed as CEO of His Compassion Food Bank of Ocala. He joined the volunteers in serving the families as they drove through the car line at the recent distribution.

“There’s a lot of need here. We’re just scratching the surface,” Quintana said.

For more information, go to fly. wingsoffaith.com

National Newspaper Week is Oct. 5-11

There are many reasons to support local journalism.

Florida Press Association

Many adults can likely recall mornings during their childhood when newspapers were tossed into the driveways of many homes throughout their neighborhoods. Some adults might even have delivered papers from their bicycles each morning.

Such scenes may now be a relic of the past, thanks in large part to wide reliance on the Internet as a source for news. But the benefits of reading a daily newspaper are no less substantial today than they were when enterprising youngsters could be seen tossing newspapers into driveways in neighborhoods across the nation in the wee hours of the morning. In fact, the American Journalism Project reports that the loss of local news is adversely affecting democracy by contributing to polarization, a decline in voting participation and less government accountability. Readers concerned by such a report can take note of the following reasons why it’s so vital to support local journalism.

Local newspapers drive political engagement, particularly among younger voters. Young people are often characterized as the future of the nation and that’s one notable reason to support local journalism. According to the CIRCLE/Tisch College PostElection Poll conducted between Nov. 3 and Dec. 2, 2020, 50 percent of youth reported feeling more prepared to vote

in the 2020 elections thanks to local news media. Local journalism can contribute to a more knowledgeable and engaged electorate, which is an invaluable benefit at a time of waning voter participation and reduced accountability of government.

Local journalism helps build communities. Community-building is another benefit of strong local

journalism. In their book, “News Hole: The Demise of Local Journalism and Political Engagement,” authors Danny Hayes and Jennifer Lawless connect a decline in local news with decreased participation in local elections. When voters participate less in local elections, they’re less likely to learn about issues affecting their communities, whereas greater voter participation increases

civic engagement and helps to build stronger communities.

Local journalism keeps people up-todate on their own communities. Cable news networks and their affiliated websites primarily focus on national and international news, leaving viewers and readers who rely exclusively on these mediums for their news with little or no access to information regarding issues affecting their own communities.

Local newspapers have long filled that void, providing an invaluable benefit and a means for readers to learn what’s being done and what can be done about issues affecting their daily lives and the communities they call home.

Local journalism holds local government officials accountable. In early 2025, the Richmond (CA) City Council voted to give themselves 80 percent increases in their monthly salaries. Though the merits of those increases were open to debate from both sides, chances are strong Richmond residents might not have learned about the salary adjustments had it not been for local journalists’ reporting. The Richmond example underscores the vital role local journalism plays in relation to keeping an eye on local governments and holding them accountable.

Local journalism is vital to a thriving democracy, and readers are urged to support the many local newspapers working hard to keep their communities well-informed.

The original AI: Newspapers run on accurate information

By Ken Paulson

Artificial intelligence is going to transform everything we watch, hear and read. You can already see it happening.

Asking any AI search engine a question about an obscure fact can yield quick and surprisingly detailed responses. Type in a cellphone model number and you’re suddenly a highly informed consumer. And when it comes to transforming legendary television show casts into babies, AI is world-class.

But news? AI-fueled news poses problems.

The first is that news is about reality. AI provides tools to bend reality. We’re seeing a wave of AIabetted falsehoods and deepfakes online, all designed to mislead us with doctored images and video.

No, Ukraine is not sending children, the disabled and the elderly to clear minefields.

President Trump does not have a forehead indentation indicating serious illness. Sen. Amy Klobuchar didn’t attack Sydney Sweeney and complain that

Democrats are “too fat to wear jeans or too ugly to go outside.”

It’s time to retire “seeing is believing.”

A second issue with AI is that it doesn’t know what the truth is. Its take on the world will be

driven by the data it accesses. Popular but untrue information isn’t necessarily filtered out. There’s no one sitting at a desk signing off on AI’s best guess. In contrast to the breathless tone of clickbait, newspapers in print

and online can seem a little oldschool. Traditional. Reliable. Safe.

Local newspapers embrace the original AI: accurate information. How refreshing is that? Newspapers focus on your community, written by neighbors who shop at the same stores and send their kids to the same schools. Most can readily be reached by phone or email, and when they make an error, they correct it.

How quaint. How essential.

AI isn’t magic. When used for search, it offers an analysis and recasting of information about what’s already known, drawing on the vast resources of the web.

Any search about your hometown, though, depends on that information being captured and published in the first place.

If your local newspaper doesn’t report on a new transportation plan for your community, there’s nothing for AI search to draw upon. AI is not sitting in the third row of the City Council meeting.

There’s an oft-used phrase in data analysis: Garbage in, garbage out. No local news in, no local news out.

In the long run, artificial intelligence may be good for us; it may be bad. But it will be.

The question is whether we will support the local daily journalism that informs us, protects our communities, and yes, fuels AI.

Unless we support local newspapers and local journalism of all sorts, we will lose the collective knowledge and insight that allows a community to address its needs and move forward. We can’t fix what we don’t know is broken.

If we don’t subscribe and support local news media, we will no longer know how our tax dollars are being used, how well elected officials are doing their jobs, or what the real stakes are for the next local election.

But just wait until you see the mayor as a baby.

Ken Paulson is the director of the Free Speech Center at Middle Tennessee State University and a former editorin-chief of USA Today. National Newspaper Week takes place Oct. 5-11. Support your local newspaper.

Carrying guns in public: Rights come with responsibilities

By the Ocala Gazette Editorial Board

Last week, Florida’s new open carry gun law went into effect. For some, that’s a victory for individual rights. For others, it’s a cause for worry, especially for parents whose kids may become frightened when they’re standing in line to order chicken nuggets and spot a sidearm on a stranger’s hip.

Yes, the law permits you to openly carry a firearm. No, it doesn’t mean you should forget that you live in a community — not the set of an old Western movie anticipating the next duel.

THINK OF YOUR NEIGHBORS & LAW ENFORCEMENT

Our neighbors come in all stripes. Some grew up around firearms and feel comfortable seeing them in public, especially those raised in rural communities in Marion County or elsewhere.

Others may never have handled a gun and only know them through headlines about the steady stream of mass shootings and violence plaguing America. Some may have been victims of gun violence themselves, or have lost loved ones to it, and the sight of an openly displayed weapon could cause unnecessary pain and emotional distress.

To them, the sight of a pistol is not reassuring, it’s frightening. If you strap one on before heading to the grocery store, know that the mom in the checkout line or the

retiree grabbing milk — including veterans for whom a gun sighting could trigger PTSD — may interpret your action as a threat. And maybe think twice about how other drivers might perceive the aggressiveness of your driving before mounting a rifle or shotgun in the back window of your pickup, as was common years ago.

Law enforcement officers also face an added layer of risk. When they arrive on a scene where multiple people are openly carrying, they must instantly determine who is a threat and who is not. That split-second calculation, made in a tense and fast-moving situation, can increase the danger for both officers and civilians.

Kids don’t parse Second Amendment debates. They just see a gun and wonder if they’re

Join the Team

safe. One of our own kids, raised around firearms, put it plainly: “If I walk into a Walmart tomorrow and I see a guy carrying an AR-15, my first thought is not that they’re there just in case of an emergency. My brain is automatically telling me that they ARE the emergency.” That kind of instinctive fear can’t be ignored.

THINK OF LOCAL BUSINESSES

The law also puts small business owners in an awkward spot. Legally, they can restrict open carry on their premises. But how easy is it for the manager at a place that caters to kids to walk up to a parent with a visible firearm and ask them to leave?

We all recall episodes during the COVID-19 pandemic when business owners and employees who asked customers to

wear masks were harassed or threatened for simply enforcing the rules. Imagine how those encounters could play out when the subject isn’t masks but firearms.

RESPONSIBILITY MEANS

ANTICIPATING RISKS

Open carry comes with great responsibility. Firearms are not just visible to law-abiding neighbors — they’re also visible to those struggling with mental illness.

We’ve reported on how this can go wrong. If someone in mental distress can make a grab for a law enforcement officer’s holstered weapon or the keys to a patrol car, civilians need to understand that risk when openly carrying in public spaces

with people whose stability is unknown.

Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd recently urged caution in a social media post.

“Some people think, well, if I’m carrying a firearm, I’ll announce my presence and my intentions,” he said. “You don’t scare real bad guys by carrying a firearm in a holster or slinging an AR-15 over your shoulder.” He warned that a “real bad guy” can take your firearm and use it against you.

A POLICY POINT

Current law seeks to curtail gun violence by restricting access for felons and people diagnosed with mental illness. But common sense should tell us there’s no way to know at a glance if the person walking down the street is a convicted felon or is dealing with mental illness.

The right to openly carry a deadly weapon in public comes with the responsibility to exercise judgment. Ask yourself: Is this the time and place? Do I need my weapon at the youth baseball game, or am I making the umpire’s calls harder than they already are?

The Gazette editorial board is not advocating for surrendering your rights. But we are here to remind you that rights, responsibilities and relationships with your neighbors go hand in hand.

As Florida enters this new era of open carry, let’s proceed with care. The freedoms we exercise can either strengthen our bonds with neighbors or fray them.

Art entries sought for exhibit in Dunnellon

By Margo Wilson Special to the Gazette

Mom and Dad, grandparents, babies, chosen friends or newborn kittens? What do you call "family"?

Rainbow Springs Art in Dunnellon is planning an art show, "What Does Family Mean to You?" and is seeking artists to interpret the theme.

Art can be in any medium and dropoff will be at the gallery from Oct. 2123. The art shouldn't be any bigger than 16 inches by 20 inches. There's a limit of one submission per person. A $20 entry fee is required.

The art will go on exhibit Nov. 1, when the gallery is planning an open house and artist's reception to welcome the community to the gallery's new site

at 20826 Walnut St.

Over the summer, the gallery's artists moved a block after losing their lease at their former building.

A pop-up art festival on the lawn outside the gallery is planned and vendors are welcome to contact the gallery about a space. The open house is from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov. 1 and the artist's reception from 2 to 4 p.m.

A $200 People's Choice Award will be given to the artist whom the community votes as having their favorite piece of art.

The gallery is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more information, go to rainbowspringsart.com or call (352) 763-4048.

Nature on display

Photographer’s exhibit at Silver Springs State Park showcases the beauty of Florida.

By Susan Smiley-Height susan@magnoliamediaco.com

Photographer Jade Cave will have an exhibit of her works on display in the Friends of Silver Springs State Park gallery inside the park in Ocala through Nov. 2.

Cave said the exhibit “showcases the beauty of Silver Springs and the surrounding areas of Florida.”

Correspondence from Cave via email states that she is originally from the United Kingdom but is “now a proud citizen of the United States, Florida,”

She said she draws inspiration from the breathtaking landscapes and vibrant ecosystems around her and specializes in close-up wildlife photography and capturing the dynamic movements of nature.

Cave’s work has garnered international recognition, with exhibitions around the globe—including Art Basel Week and Spectrum Miami in 2024. Her images hang in the British Consulate and are part of numerous private collections. Her photographs have also been featured in magazines and news outlets, amplifying her mission to showcase the planet’s beauty, the correspondence noted.

Cave said she donates time and a portion of her profits to charities protecting wildlife and natural spaces. She intentionally limits her art editions to 1/1, 1/3 and 1/10, and offers custom orders where only 10 copies of the same image

will be printed, “emphasizing the fragile and limited nature of our remaining wilderness. Her work ranges from sweeping landscapes to intimate close-ups, serving as a reminder of the urgent need to conserve our planet’s wonders before they are lost,” the materials stated.

“For this show, I will be donating 10% back to Friends of Silver Springs State Park, a nonprofit organization. Friends of Silver Springs State Park is a Citizen Support Organization dedicated to preserving and enhancing Silver Springs State Park. They support the park by providing volunteers, educating visitors, hosting events and raising funds for specific park projects,” Cave shared via email.

There will be a meet and greet with Cave from 2 to 4 p.m. Oct. 4 at the gallery inside the park. That event is free to attend; park admission is $2 per person.

“I’ll be offering refreshment and 10% off all work and also a chance to win one of my works,” Cave shared.

Silver Springs State Park is located at 5656 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala. The exhibit is inside the first storefront on your left as you pass the ticket booths.

To learn more about Cave, go to jadecaveart.com and find her on Instagram.

Día de los Muertos 5K set for Oct. 25

Staff report

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The third annual Día de los Muertos 5K Run/Walk, organized by the Marion County Gator Club in partnership with Milestone Race Authority, will take place Oct. 25 at the Baseline Trailhead Park.

The event blends fitness with cultural celebration while raising scholarship funds for Marion County students headed to the University of Florida.

The Día de los Muertos 5K welcomes all levels of runners and walkers and families looking for a fun morning together. More than just a race, it’s a way for participants to honor loved ones who have passed. Participants can decorate their bibs or a flag with personal tributes, creating a colorful, moving display of remembrance, the news release noted.

“Traditionally observed on Nov. 1 and 2, Día de los Muertos is a vibrant holiday rooted in Mexican culture and embraced worldwide. Families gather to remember their deceased loved ones with food, music, flowers and joy. It’s believed the souls of the departed return during these days, making the occasion both reflective

Cities, counties challenge growth law

By Jim Turner The News Service of Florida

Twenty-five cities and counties filed a lawsuit on Sept. 29 challenging a new state law that blocks local governments from approving “more restrictive or burdensome” changes to growth plans for the next two years.

The challenge, filed in Leon County circuit court, contends that the law (SB 180) effectively freezes all local land development regulations and comprehensive plans through Oct. 1, 2027, violates home rule authority and, using “ambiguous and vague” preemption language, strips the ability of cities and counties to manage their growth.

The changes took effect June 26, when Gov. Ron DeSantis signed the law and are retroactive to Aug. 1, 2024.

Jamie Cole, an attorney representing the local governments, said in a news release the case is about protecting home rule.

“Every city and county has unique needs and local leaders are best positioned to make decisions about growth, safety and resilience,” Cole, a partner with the South Florida law firm Weiss Serota Helfman Cole + Bierman, said in a statement.

The suit names as defendants Florida Department of Commerce

Secretary J. Alex Kelly, Division of Emergency Management Director Kevin Guthrie, Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson, Department of Revenue Executive Director Jim Zingale and state Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia.

Kelly is named because his department oversees enforcement of the law and has rejected proposed

comprehensive-plan amendments in several communities, including Orange and Manatee counties, and has concluded other proposed changes violate the law, according to the suit.

Zingale is named because the law affects the ability of local governments to collect and spend money.

Guthrie and Simpson are included because they run agencies that are responsible for administering and enforcing portions of the law. Ingoglia has the responsibility to “invest funds of any entity created by the state” and the law affects the local governments’ autonomy to collect and spend those funds, according to the lawsuit.

Spokeswomen for the Department of Revenue and Department of Commerce said Monday their agencies don’t comment on pending litigation.

Representatives for the other officials didn’t immediately respond to requests for comment.

The lawsuit, which seeks an expedited ruling, contends, in part, that the law violates a singlesubject requirement for legislation, created an unfunded mandate for local governments and represents “the largest incursion into local home rule authority in the history of Florida since the adoption of the Florida Constitution in 1968.”

Lawmakers touted the wideranging legislation as helping the state recover from last year’s hurricanes Debby, Helene and Milton. It included changes related to issues such as debris removal, mutual-aid agreements, rebuilding storm-damaged homes and building permit and inspection fees.

But the lawsuit focuses on a section of the bill that was added May 2 and prohibits local governments from proposing

or adopting “more restrictive or burdensome” amendments to comprehensive plans or land development regulations. Any resident or business owner may file suit to enforce the section.

The section applies to governments that were placed under federal disaster declarations from any of the three hurricanes. All 67 of Florida’s counties were listed in at least one of the three declarations.

“Some of the local governments have also had to pause moving forward with planning and zoning regulations that have been years in development even if those regulations are unrelated to emergencies or rebuilding after emergencies, amounting to a waste of the public funds expended in effort to pass said regulations and expanding the reach of SB 180 past emergencies,” the lawsuit said.

Local governments joining the case were asked to put up $10,000, with the expectation that costs will go up $5,000 for a potential appeal and another $5,000 if the case reaches the Florida Supreme Court.

The wide-ranging law drew little opposition during this spring’s legislative session. DeSantis has defended the measure as primarily helping people whose homes were damaged to rebuild without government interference.

Participants in the lawsuit are Orange and Manatee counties, along with the municipalities of Destin, Lake Alfred, Windermere, Delray Beach, Deltona, Weston, Alachua, Stuart, Mulberry, Naples, Miami Shores Village, Lake Park, Fort Lauderdale, Jupiter, Edgewater, Pompano Beach, Dundee, Cutler Bay, North Palm Beach, Pinecrest, Margate, Palm Beach and Homestead.

and celebratory,” according to the release.

The youth fun run is for ages 12 and under. It will be 200 yards so young children or families with strollers can participate. All youth will receive a medal and a commemorative shirt if registered by Oct. 17. Event participants are encouraged to wear costumes.

“We believe in giving back to our community and investing in its future,” said Frenchie Bisiaux, co-chair of the race, in the release. “The Marion County Gator Club is proud to support a scholarship fund for Marion County students attending University of Florida.”

The 5K will begin at 8 a.m., followed by the youth fun run at 8:45 a.m. The fees are 5K (all ages), $35 through Oct. 15, $40 through Oct. 24, 6 p.m., $45 race-day (cash/check only, shirt not guaranteed), and youth fun run, $15 through Oct. 15, $18 through 6 p.m. Oct. 24.

Participants who register by Oct. 17 will receive a commemorative race shirt. The first 150 finishers will receive a medal reflecting the Dia de los Muertos theme. The park is located at 4255 SE 58th St., Ocala.

To register, go to diadelosmuertos5kocala.itsyourrace.com

NOTICE OF SCHOOL BOARD MEETING

Notice

Persons wishing to address the Board should register with the Chairman prior to 5:40 p.m.

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

Tracking Napoleon's rise and fall in Paris

Ican’t think of any two people more prominent in the minds of French citizens than the Virgin Mary and Emperor Napoleon. And they share an important date: August 15 – when it’s believed she ascended into Heaven, and when he was born. Of course, churches across France recall Notre Dame (our lady). But city halls recall Napoleon, and his huge impact on French civic life.

When I’m filming my TV shows and writing my guidebooks in France, I try to get the straight story on Napoleon. But it can be tricky. His own quote, “What is history but a myth agreed upon?” applies to his own life, where it's sometimes hard to separate myth from reality.

Just a humble kid from Corsica, Napoleon attended military school in Paris. He rose quickly through the ranks during the tumultuous years of the French Revolution, and by 1799 he was ruler of France. Five years later, France had conquered most of Europe, and Napoleon declared himself emperor of it all. His personal charisma on the battlefield was said to be worth 10,000 additional men.

Leading France’s grand million-man army, he blitzed Europe – until it all came to an end on farmland 15 miles

south of Brussels. Two centuries and a catchy ABBA song later, “Waterloo” has become a cultural catchphrase, and Napoleon’s famous defeat carries much of his legacy.

After Waterloo, Napoleon was sent into exile on the island of St. Helena. Once the most powerful man in the world, he spent his final years as a lonely outcast suffering from ulcers, dressed in his nightcap and slippers, and playing chess, not war.

To get a better feel for Napoleon, head to Paris. South of the city, the Château de Fontainebleau has more Napoleon connections than any other palace in France, featuring his personal apartments and an adjacent museum. You’ll see the emperor's bed, the grand “power desk” where he worked, and the humiliatingly little table where he abdicated. There's also a tent-like room dedicated to Napoleon at war, with his small-but-iconic battle coat and hat, a field cot, and first-class camp gear. And the throne room is the only one in France with its original furniture.

Grand paintings portray the emperor and his first wife, Josephine, after their coronation. Napoleon aspired to create his own family dynasty, but Josephine was too old to have children. To turn his Corsican

blood blue, he divorced Josephine and married a Habsburg. You'll see a portrait of his second wife, Empress Marie-Louise, who provided what he called “a royal womb.”

Looking at the final painting, which depicts Napoleon with symbols of the “Napoleonic Code” – the legal system he gave France – it's fascinating to consider his mix of ideals, charisma, and megalomania. This revolutionary hero came out of a movement that killed off the Old Regime…only to create a new Old Regime.

There's no better symbol of Napoleon's oversized ego than Paris' Arc de Triomphe. Patterned after the ceremonial arches of ancient Roman conquerors (but more than twice the size), it celebrates Napoleon as emperor of a “New Rome.” On the arch’s massive left pillar, a relief sculpture shows a toga-clad Napoleon posing

confidently, while an awestruck Paris – crowned by her city walls kneels at his imperial feet. Napoleon died before the Arc’s completion, but it was finished in time for his 1840 funeral procession to pass underneath, carrying his remains (19 years dead) from exile to Paris.

Elsewhere in Paris, the complex of Les Invalides – a former veterans’ hospital built by Louis XIV – has various French military collections, collectively called the Army Museum. Here, in addition to galleries on World War I and II, you’ll see plenty of Napoleon memorabilia including a bed with mosquito netting, a director’s chair, his overcoat and pistols – and his beloved horse, Le Vizir, which weathered many a Napoleonic campaign, grew old with him in exile, and now stands stuffed and proud.

At the other end of the complex, Napoleon’s tomb rests

beneath a dome which glitters with 26 pounds of thinly pounded gold leaf. Enter the church, gaze up at the dome, then lean over the railing and bow to the emperor lying inside the scrolled, red porphyry tomb. If you’ve ever considered being an absolute dictator of a united Europe, come here first. Hitler did, but still went out and made the same mistakes as Napoleon. (Hint: Don’t invade Russia.)

While you visit these places, it’s instructive to ponder these symbols of war, empire, and revolution. Why are today’s French so hell-bent on defending their civil liberties? Perhaps it has to do with their heritage of struggling so long and hard to overcome the stubborn abuse of power to earn their freedom. When you travel to Paris, it’s clear: Napoleon has left today’s visitors with some amazing and thought-provoking sights.

Modern recycling systems are failing because they are costly, complex, and disconnected from market realities. This presentation explores the root causes of those failures and introduces a bold, market-driven alternative: Regenerative Robust Gasification (RRG). RRG simplifies waste collection and sorting, reduces dependence on landfilling and incineration, and transforms municipal solid waste into valuable chemical feedstocks. By addressing both technical and economic barriers, this approach offers a pathway to lower emissions, stronger supply chains, and a truly circular economy.

Dr. Bruce Welt is a professor at the University of Florida in the agricultural and biological engineering department. Welt helped establish UF’s Packaging Engineering program and has been the program coordinator since its inception in 2001. He earned a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from Clarkson University, a master’s degree in food science from Rutgers University, and a Ph.D. in agricultural and biological engineering from the University of Florida. Welt has made significant contributions to food traceability, package permeation testing, and modified atmosphere packaging, and robust advanced recycling. His recent work in robust advanced recycling led to the establishment of the Consortium for Waste Circularity, a plastics and packaging industry consortium committed to eliminating waste and achieving a circular economy for plastics.

Monkey concerns

Continued from page A1

questions regarding wildlife issues within the park to their office.”

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection, which oversees state parks, has not responded to questions about recent monkey incidents.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) confirmed that wild monkeys are present in Florida and can pose health and safety concerns.

“Wild monkeys, including rhesus macaques, are not native to Florida and may have negative impacts on native wildlife, ecosystems and agriculture,” said Lisa Thompson, spokesperson for the agency’s Division of Habitat and Species Conservation. “They can also carry diseases that can potentially be spread to humans, including rabies and herpes B. If you encounter wild monkeys in Florida, it is important to keep a safe distance and never feed wild monkeys. To help prevent injuries and spread of disease to people, feeding wild monkeys is illegal in Florida (Rule 68A-4.001).”

Rhesus macaques, the nonnative monkeys long established in Silver Springs State Park, are considered the most significant ecological and human health threat of the monkey species living in Florida, according to a University of Florida report.

The 2023 UF/IFAS Extension publication “Nonnative Monkey Populations of Florida: History, Status, and Potential Impacts” details how the monkeys were introduced to Florida and the damage they have made to natural habitats while preying on native wildlife and carrying diseases that can endanger people.

“A commercial river boat captain, Colonel Tooey, released approximately six rhesus macaques on an island in the Silver River in an effort to increase tourism. Rhesus macaques are excellent swimmers, which allowed them to swim to the forest and begin breeding. By the 1980s, their numbers reached around 400 animals. From 1984–2012, population growth was controlled by trapping and removing macaques; approximately 1,000 macaques were removed from this population by private trappers and sold to biomedical research facilities. This removal effort was very controversial and has since been halted.”

Researchers noted that the monkeys were previously removed from the Florida Keys after destroying mangroves. In Silver Springs State Park, they were observed eating quail eggs from artificial nests placed by biologists, suggesting they could pose a threat to breeding bird populations. In Puerto Rico, invasive macaques have decreased bird numbers by raiding nests and caused millions of dollars in crop losses by feeding on agriculture, the report said.

Beyond environmental damage, macaques can affect human health. In South Carolina, where rhesus macaques are kept on Morgan Island for research, tidal creeks were found to have elevated levels of E. coli and fecal coliform

Map of monkey sightings in Florida. Source: Florida Wildlife Commission

bacteria traced to the animals. In their native range in Asia, they are considered sacred in some communities but also regarded as a nuisance because of their aggressive behavior when habituated to human food sources.

“Scratches and bites are fairly common when humans encounter habituated macaques; thus, caution should be exercised when encountering them in the wild in Florida,” the UF report states.

Health risks include the herpes B virus, which rhesus macaques in Silver Springs are known to carry. The virus is typically asymptomatic in monkeys but can be transmitted through saliva, feces or other bodily fluids. According to the UF/IFAS report, “There are several documented cases of this virus spreading to humans in laboratory settings, but there are no reports of a person contracting it from a wild monkey.”

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warn that herpes B has a high fatality rate when transmitted to humans, and anyone bitten or scratched should seek immediate medical care.

The UF researchers concluded that more study is needed to understand why wild macaques have not transmitted the virus to people in Florida but recommended that the public keep a safe distance to avoid bites, scratches or exposure.

The FWC urges the public to report sightings of monkeys outside their core population areas.

“Members of the public can report sightings of wild monkeys to IveGot1.org, which assists staff in tracking sightings and distribution of nonnative species in Florida. Members of the public can report monkeys approaching people and acting aggressively to the FWC’s Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922),” Thompson said.

IF YOU SEE A MONKEY

• Do not feed them & keep your distance. Feeding or approaching monkeys increases the chance of bites, scratches, or disease transmission.

• Report sightings.

• For sightings outside core ranges: call the FWC Exotic Species Hotline at 888-IveGot1 (888483-4681) or submit at IveGot1. org. For aggressive behavior or immediate threats: call the Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888404-FWCC (3922) If bitten or scratched: wash the wound thoroughly and seek medical attention; follow CDC guidelines and contact the National B Virus Resource Center at 404-413-6550

‘Ghouls for Good’ fundraiser coming up Oct. 30

Staff report

The LILAC Foundation is getting into the spooky spirit with its upcoming “Ghouls for Good” event, billed as an otherworldly masquerade where dreams and nightmares collide.

The event will run from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Oct. 30 at the Marion Cultural Alliance’s Brick City Center for the Arts at 23 SW Broadway St., Ocala.

“Step into an otherworldly realm where your sweetest dreams shimmer—and your darkest nightmares awaken. Join the LILAC Foundation for an evening of enchantment, fantasy and eerie elegance. Costumes inspired by bedtime stories, dreamscapes or classic night terrors are highly encouraged. Whether you come dressed as a blissful sleeper or something that

keeps others awake at night… you’ll be right at home,” notes the promotional materials.

The organizers offer costume inspirations such as otherworldly creatures, twisted fairytales, haunted carnival performers, sleepwalkers and shadow selves and soft-focus beauty with an unsettling edge.

There will be a costume contest and the winner will walk away with “a killer prize.”

The evening will include art and music, with haunting decor and light projections by Oniram Productions and DJ Karim.

Signature cocktails will include the Tequila Nightmare and Moonlight Muse. Guests can also nosh on light bites and visit a cash bar.

The Marion Cultural Alliance is a nonprofit, 501(c)3 that was established in 2001 with the Horse Fever public art project.

MCA’s mission is to champion, convene and create opportunities for artists and arts organizations. The LILAC (Lisa Irwin Legacy

for Arts & Culture) Foundation has three pillars: Arts in Health Ocala Metro, Elevating Futures and Opportunity for All.

For tickets to Ghouls for Good, go to zeffy.com/es-US/ticketing/ ghouls-for-good-dreamscapesand-nightmares

BILL SEEKS TO CLARIFY OPEN CARRY RULING

Amid confusion over the impact of an appeals court decision that overturned the state’s ban on openly carrying firearms, a House Democratic leader filed a Sept. 30 measure seeking to ensure that certain places—such as legislative meetings, jails and police stations —remain gun-free zones.

Rep. Christine Hunchofsky, D-Parkland, said her bill (HB 63) is intended to close a “perceived loophole” created by the 1st District Court of Appeal’s ruling in a case known as McDaniels v. State of Florida.

A three-judge panel of the Tallahasseebased court found that the state’s open carry ban was incompatible with the nation’s “historical tradition of firearm regulation.” The Sept. 10 ruling overturned a 1987 law that made it a misdemeanor to visibly display guns.

Part of the fallout from the ruling involves a longstanding law allowing concealed-weapons licenses. That law included prohibitions on carrying handguns into certain places but does not address long guns, such as rifles.

In an interview with The News Service of Florida, Hunchofsky said she filed the bill for the 2026 legislative session to clear up uncertainty about the ruling.

“Right now, everybody’s scrambling. We have differing opinions and we just want to bring some clarity to this, and especially given the time we’re in, we need to have this clarity,” said Hunchofsky, who is slated to take over as House minority leader after the 2026 elections.

Without a legislative fix, the ruling might allow people to openly carry rifles, shotguns and other long guns into places that are off-limits to handguns, including courthouses, legislative meetings, school board meetings, jails, police stations and bars.

Hunchofsky said lawmakers never intended to allow guns to be brought into such spaces.

House Speaker Daniel Perez, R-Miami, and Senate President Ben Albritton, R-Wauchula, have not indicated whether they intend to address the issue during the session that begins Jan. 13.

The interpretation of the ruling’s impact has sparked debate among law enforcement officials, gun rights advocates and local government officials.

Florida Supreme Court Chief Justice Carlos Muñiz issued a memo last week in response to “questions within the judicial branch” about the ruling’s effect on courthouse security. The appellate court’s “Second Amendment analysis does not address the regulation of firearms” in Florida courthouses, the Sept. 25 memo to chief judges throughout the state said. “Our (Supreme) Court believes that chief judges continue to have the authority to prohibit weapons (including firearms) in courthouses and courtrooms,” Muñiz wrote.

IMMIGRATION ENFORCEMENT MONEY BACKED

Gov. Ron DeSantis and the state Cabinet on Sept. 30 signed off on nearly $14.1 million in grants to law enforcement agencies throughout Florida as part of a crackdown on illegal immigration.

Money for the immigration enforcement grant program came from $250 million set aside by the Republican-controlled Legislature during a February special session.

Lawmakers also during the special session established the State Board of Immigration, which is made up of DeSantis and the Cabinet members—Attorney General James Uthmeier, Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson and Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia.

Grants can be used for training, overtime, bonuses, equipment and other items related to immigration enforcement.

The 56 grants approved Tuesday ranged from a $10,882.50 request from Gulf County to $1.07 million sought by the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office and were the first batch approved since lawmakers created the program. Items approved in the grants include bulletproof vests, AI-assisted

translation software and license plate readers.

The Board of Immigration Enforcement on Tuesday also tweaked a rule that established guidelines for the grants, changing it to allow 18 sheriffs to seek money for vans used to transport people who are in the country illegally. Thirteen county sheriffs and Jacksonville were granted money to purchase vans. In addition, sheriffs received roughly $2.7 million to cover transportation-related costs.

The approval of the grants coincided with an escalation in immigration enforcement over the past few weeks, as more state and local law enforcement officers get certified to participate in deportation efforts alongside the Trump administration.

Sheriffs and other law enforcement agencies are working with federal immigration officials to coordinate arrests, detention and transportation of people to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement facilities, where they can be held and processed for deportation.

Under a plan rolled out over the past few weeks, the state is divided into 18 regions and certain sheriffs within each zone are designated with the responsibility of transporting immigrants from county jails to ICE detention centers in Florida. The Trump administration recently awarded $28.6 million to state law enforcement agencies and more than $10 million to local law enforcement agencies for participating in what are known as 287(g) agreements.

TRUMP FOUNDATION CONFIRMS MIAMI LIBRARY

Hours after Gov. Ron DeSantis and the Florida Cabinet approved turning over property at Miami Dade College for the project, the Donald J. Trump Presidential Library Foundation formally announced on Sept. 30 that the Trump library will be in Miami.

“Once completed, the Donald J. Trump Presidential Library will be visible for miles into the Atlantic, a bold landmark on Miami’s skyline and a lasting tribute to the achievements my father continues to deliver for this nation,” Eric Trump, president of the Donald J. Trump Presidential Library Foundation, said in a prepared statement.

On Tuesday morning, DeSantis and the Cabine —Attorney General James Uthmeier, Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson and state Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia—approved providing a 2.63-acre parcel on the college’s Wolfson Campus for the library. The site is close to the century-old Freedom Tower, which is on the list of U.S. National Historic Landmarks as it was a center for Cuban refugees.

DeSantis signed legislation in June that prevents local governments from placing restrictions on presidential libraries and gives the state authority to regulate establishing and operating such facilities.

INSURER URGES

JUSTICES TO TAKE UP FEE FIGHT

Aproperty insurer on Sept. 29 argued that the Florida Supreme Court should take up a battle about whether the company is required to pay a homeowner’s attorney fees because an appeals court decision conflicted with other court rulings.

Attorneys for Security First Insurance Co. filed a brief urging the Supreme Court to review a 5th District Court of Appeal decision last month in favor of homeowner Denise Blumberg. The dispute centers on a major law passed in December 2022 that shielded insurers from having to pay policyholders’ attorney fees after claims disputes.

Blumberg argued that Security First should be required to pay her attorney fees because her home was damaged before the 2022 law took effect. While Blumberg did not file a claim until January 2023—and a lawsuit until July 2023—a panel of the 5th District Court of Appeal said her policy was in effect at the time the law passed and that the law didn’t apply retroactively.

But in the brief filed Monday, Security First said it wasn’t trying to apply the law retroactively. The brief said the company

was seeking to apply the law “to conduct occurring after the statute’s effective date.” It also said the appeals court decision in Blumberg’s case conflicted with rulings by the 4th District Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court in other cases.

“The question here is whether the Legislature’s withdrawal of statutory attorney’s fees occurred before Blumberg had any vested right to those attorney’s fees,” the brief said. “This (Supreme) Court’s precedents hold that … attorney’s fees vest at the time of an accrued cause of action.”

LAWSUIT SEEKS SENATE SPECIAL ELECTION

The American Civil Liberties Union of Florida on Sept. 30 filed a lawsuit seeking to force Gov. Ron DeSantis to call a special election to replace former state Sen. Jay Collins, a Tampa Republican who became lieutenant governor in August.

The lawsuit, filed in Leon County circuit court, alleges DeSantis has violated a state law by not calling a special election in Hillsborough County’s Senate District 14.

“The vacancy arose over 45 days ago, when the incumbent senator resigned to become Florida’s lieutenant governor,” the lawsuit said. “The governor’s failure— inaction longer than any of his predecessors in known history—leaves the district’s half a million constituents without representation and threatens to deprive them of a voice in the halls of the Capitol during the 2026 session set to begin in January.”

The named plaintiff in the lawsuit is Cort Lippe, a resident of the district.

DeSantis appointed Collins as lieutenant governor on Aug. 12.

The 2026 session will start Jan. 13, with lawmakers beginning to hold pre-session committee meetings next week.

Special primary elections are being held Tuesday in Senate District 11 and House District 90, with special general elections scheduled Dec. 9. Senate

District 11, which is made up of Citrus, Hernando, Sumter and part of Pasco counties, opened when DeSantis appointed former Sen. Blaise Ingoglia, R-Spring Hill, as state chief financial officer. Palm Beach County’s House District 90 opened when Rep. Joe Casello, D-Boynton Beach, died.

House District 87 and House District 52 also are open after DeSantis appointed former Rep. Mike Caruso, R-Delray Beach, as Palm Beach County clerk of the circuit court and comptroller and former Rep. John Temple, R-Wildwood, was named president of Lake-Sumter State College.

LAWMAKERS TO EYE FINANCES, ELECTIONS

As House and Senate members return to Tallahassee next week for a first round of meetings in advance of the 2026 legislative session, they will receive presentations about issues such as the state’s long-term finances, land conservation programs and elections.

The Senate on Sept. 29 published a calendar listing issues that will be addressed during committee meetings Oct. 7 and Oct. 8. The list includes the Senate Appropriations Committee receiving a presentation Oct. 8 from Amy Baker, coordinator of the Legislature’s Office of Economic and Demographic Research, about the state’s long-range financial outlook.

On Oct. 7, meanwhile, the Senate Agriculture Committee will receive presentations about two programs that help shield land from development—the Rural and Family Lands Protection Program and the Florida Forever program.

The House on Monday had not published its full calendar for the week, but a meeting notice said the House Government Operations Subcommittee on Oct. 8 will receive a presentation from Secretary of State Cord Byrd about issues such as election security and preparations for the 2026 mid-term elections.

Lawmakers also are scheduled to hold five additional weeks of committee and subcommittee meetings in October, November and December to prepare for the legislative session, which will start in January. IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF

other persons having claims or demands against decedent's estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent's estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT'S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is September 26, 2025. Personal Representative: BRENDA L. WESTFALL Attorney

We know your life is busy and on-the-go. That’s why we’re making it quick and easy for you to get your screening mammogram in 30 minutes or less this September and October. With online scheduling, convenient locations and advanced cancer-detecting technology, there’s no reason to delay getting this lifesaving screening.

Home & Garden

Changing of the seasons

Tips for preparing your flower garden now for fall favorites and making spring gardening easier next year.

By Virginia McLoughlin Pioneer Garden Club, Camellia Circle

As summer comes to an end and the weather is cooling down, it is time to get out and prepare our gardens for fall’s extended growing season. There are a few things you can do now to give your gardens a boost and make them ready to transition into fall. A little time spent now will give you more time next spring for planting a successful summer season of colorful blooms.

Let us take a long look around our gardens before we make any decisions. Let’s check the condition of the plants to see if they are surviving where they are or if they will need to be relocated. Look for any pest infestation or disease. Check for plants that have outgrown their space and need to be divided, transplanted or pruned.

WEEDING/THINNING

During the summer we all tried to do a thorough weeding but those pesky weeds are still there using up valuable water and nutrients and choking out roots. Weeds also bring unwanted pests to the garden and can cause it to become congested and bring fungus and bacteria. I would advise to pull out the weeds and add a good layer of compost or natural mulch—the natural color, not the red, brown or black varieties. Remove any spring and summer annual plans that have run their course to make room for fall flowering annuals. Check them to make sure that they don’t have any diseases or pests before adding them to your compost pile. We should dig up any bulbs we have planted that need to be winterized indoors or need to be divided. Now is a good time to divide any bulbs that will be staying in the ground over the winter so that they can get acclimated for winter.

DEADHEADING

Deadheading is something that we should have been doing all summer long, but if you didn’t, now is a good time to get it done. Deadheading can encourage plants to produce more flowers and prolong the blooming time of the summer bloomers. It not only makes the garden look nicer, but it helps the plants redirect their energy to new growth. Deadheading can be done by using your fingers to pinch off the tender stems and clean hand shears to cut the woody stems.

COLLECTING SEEDS

Seed collecting can save money on your buying seeds next spring. Many flowers have dried pods that can be collected in late summer. This is a good time to collect those that have dried in the stems. Check on the varieties, then label and store them for spring planting.

TENDING THE SOIL

Once you have removed all the summer annuals it is time to tend to tend to our soil. We should be adding organic fertilizers like compost or manure. By adding organic materials to the soil at the end of the summer they have all winter to break down, enriching the soil for spring planting. Work the material into the soil well after removing all the old debris. With the space remaining after removing the old summer bloomers you can plant new fall blooming annuals to prolong color in your gardens. Pansies and snap dragons are two of many fall bloomers.

CHECKING PERENNIALS

Now let’s give our perennials some attention. Check them for any diseases, decay, damage or insect infestation. Tidy them up by removing damaged branches, foliage and treating them for pests and diseases. Try not to prune too much as this will form new growth that

is susceptible to freezing temperatures. If you have perennials in containers that have gotten too big for them or want to move some to the ground, now is the time to do so. This will let them get established before winter sets in.

MULCHING

Now that we have our garden all cleaned up, transplanted and planted, let’s protect them with a healthy layer of mulch. This will help keep the weeds from growing now that we have just gotten rid of them. In areas where there are deciduous trees, leafy mulch is particularly beneficial. The mulch will help hold the moisture in the soil so it does not evaporate as quickly.

COMPOSTING

Now let’s tend to our compost pile. Since we have added to it or taken away from it to amend our soil, it is a good time to put a little effort into the old compost. Give your compost pile a good turning over to mix all the new plant materials into the old. This also helps to aerate it. Make sure that you add some moisture to the pile as the summer heat has dried it out.

WATERING

Finally, your garden needs thorough watering. This will settle everything back into place and help establish new roots. After disturbing the ground from the summer, it is important to give it all a good watering as the soil loses water quickly at this time of year. Summer has turned into fall and now you will be able to get out and enjoy your garden again. This little tending will mean a much healthier and prettier garden to spend time in and will make your spring gardening easier next year.

To learn more about the Pioneer Garden Club, go to pioneergardenclub.org and find it on Facebook.

Moooving right along

Southeastern Youth Fair steer show contestants participate in tagging and weigh-in session in Ocala.

By Susan Smiley-Height susan@magnoliamediaco.com

The Southeastern Youth Fair remains one of the oldest and largest such student events in the nation. The 2026 fair, set for Feb. 19-28, will mark the 86th anniversary of the annual program, through which local FFA and 4-H members demonstrate their skills and raise money to further their education.

“Our participation continues to grow,” Executive Director Sara LeFils said with excitement. “This year we have 37 4-H clubs and 23 FFA chapters involved.

We are so grateful for the interest and support from our community and can’t wait for another spectacular year.”

On Sept. 27, steer show competitors were up early to get to the Southeastern Livestock Pavilion for a tagging and weigh-in session. There were more than 160 head of cattle that went through the process.

An important element of each annual youth fair revolves around the market animal shows and auctions. The market animals include steers, swine, goats and lambs. The student participants invest a lot of time and money into raising their animals. They learn how to feed, groom

and care for them, and keep mandatory detailed records throughout the months leading up to the fair. During the fair, the participants show the animals in hopes of winning ribbons and bragging rights, followed by the auctions, through which the youth earn money.

The purpose of the market projects is educational and financial. The projects provide a “hands on” approach to teaching life skills such as responsibility, daily management, record keeping and marketing, not only their animal, but also themselves. Any individual, business, community club or group can bid at the auctions, the SEYF website explains.

“Last year our Marion County youth sold 478 market animals, with those sales grossing $1.9 million. More than 95% of those funds went directly into the hands of our youth in agriculture,” LeFils said. “This year we have 592 entries for market animals.”

LeFils said the SEYF also “broke records last year with the Southeastern Youth In Agriculture Foundation awarding 20 students with scholarship funds totaling $37,500.”

“In case there are youth out there who remain undecided, the window for all other (non-market) entries will open Nov. 4-18.  These categories include BBQ contest, tractor driving, rabbits, chickens, beef heifer, dog, horse, speech contest,

tablescaping, photography, garden show, art show, kitchen show, conservation trays, insect collection and livestock judging,” LeFils noted.

The mission of the nonprofit organization is “to recognize the outstanding youth of Marion County through the Southeastern Youth Fair as a showcase for competition, exhibition, enhanced educational opportunities and the promotion of self-esteem and personal growth and development while aiding in the education of the citizens of Marion County regarding the importance of agriculture and related industries in our area,” the website states.

It takes numerous volunteers to organize and execute the annual event and many of the adults participated in the fair in their youth. Many of the student participants come from long lines of SEYF alumni.

The theme for the 2026 Southeastern Youth Fair is Sew it, Grow it, Show it! Members of the public are welcome to attend the various activities and the calendar is available on the website.

To learn more, go to seyfair.com

COMMON QUESTIONS ABOUT CARPETING

Staff report

No two homeowners are the same and that’s perhaps most evident in the design decisions individuals make when decorating their homes.

Flooring is among the first things a person notices when entering a home and the array of options consumers have when choosing flooring materials underscores how unique each homeowner is.

Many homeowners prefer carpeting because they feel it helps to create a cozy, welcoming vibe in a home. Consumers considering carpet for their homes may have some common questions and answers to those inquiries can help homeowners determine if carpeting is for them.

IS CARPETING EXPENSIVE?

Home renovations are expensive and the cost of a project is often the first question homeowners have.

The cost of carpeting varies widely and is contingent on an array of variables unique to each home and homeowner, including square footage, materials chosen by the homeowner and the cost of labor associated with installation, which can vary significantly between locations.

According to the online renovation resource HomeAdvisor, the average cost to install or replace carpet is between $782 and $2,812. That wide range illustrates how much the cost of the project will be affected by variables unique to each project. However, even homeowners who come in around or above the high end of that estimate may find carpet installation is among the more affordable ways to give the

interior of a home an entirely new look and feel.

HOW DIFFERENT ARE CARPETING MATERIALS?

Carpeting materials differ in their look, feel and function.

The home renovation experts at Angi.com note that some carpet fibers are better suited to areas in a home that attract a lot of foot traffic, while others make for better options in areas with less use, such as a bedroom or home office.

Angi.com notes, for example, that polyester has a luxurious, soft feel, making it a strong option for bedroom floors. Nylon carpet fiber is resistant to stains and damage and maintains its height under heavy weight, making this a good option in heavily trafficked rooms.

Homeowners can discuss each carpeting material with their flooring retailer to determine which suits their budget and which is best in each room of their homes.

IS CARPET PADDING A MUST?

Carpet padding is one of the costs associated with carpeting. When shopping for carpeting for the first time, homeowners may notice carpet padding costs on their estimate and wonder what it is and if it’s truly necessary.

Carpet padding is necessary, as Flooring101.com notes that it keeps the underside of the carpet from wearing against the subfloor while absorbing the impact of foot traffic and furniture. That absorption helps to reduce stress on the carpet and thus extend its life expectancy.

Carpet padding also can have an insulating effect and help to reduce sound in a room. So, while carpet padding might be a costly expense on an itemized estimate, it’s well worth the investment.

Carpeting can help make a home feel more cozy and welcoming, and homeowners can work with a local carpeting retailer to find a carpet that meets their needs and fits their budget.

HOW TO RECOGNIZE WHEN IT’S TIME TO REPLACE WINDOWS

Staff report

Windows are a major component of a home. Window installation professionals will tell homeowners that the average life span of residential windows is between 15 and 30 years. Most well-maintained products can last 20 years, so homeowners who have windows approaching that age may want to schedule a window assessment and possible replacement. Replacing windows is a job that requires advanced skill, so this is not a typical do-it-yourself project. There are many qualified professional window installation companies that will work with homeowners to measure, order and install windows to fit with the style of a home and local weather.

For those wondering when to replace windows, Pella and Renewal by Andersen, two of the top window manufacturers, offer these guidelines:

• Difficulty opening and closing windows. A window that does not operate as it should can be aggravating for a homeowner. If windows are stuck shut or cannot be securely closed, it’s probably time for something new. There’s apparent window damage. Accidents happen and if a rock is kicked up from a lawnmower and cracks a window or if spring baseball practice has gone awry with an errant throw, windows may require replacement.

• Drafts in the window are common. If heating and cooling systems are working overtime, drafty, poorly insulated windows could be to

blame. Various agencies can perform energy efficiency tests in a home. Windows that are determined to be the weak spots should be replaced.

• Dated windows are present in the home. Older windows may pose safety hazards, especially those in older homes. A larger window may be needed to comply with fire safety codes allowing for egress. Dated windows may also compromise the aesthetics of a home.

Outdoor noises are noticed quite readily. Newer windows can help reduce noise transmission, so those leaf blowers, airplanes, barking dogs and kids playing basketball won’t disturb homeowners as they try to enjoy some peace and quiet indoors.

UPGRADE YOUR HOME TO ACCOMMODATE MODERN LIVING

Staff report

Remodeling projects allow homeowners to put their personal stamps on a property.

In addition to choosing a color and design scheme that fits a particular aesthetic, homeowners may want to outfit their homes with various features that can make them more accommodating to modern living.

Homeowners can use these ideas as a springboard for remodeling projects designed to modernize their homes:

• Open floor plans remain coveted characteristics of modern home architecture. An open layout enables occupants to feel like they are enjoying spaces together without having to be on top of one another. Since sightlines are not obstructed in open floor plans, homeowners can enjoy a cohesive design style across each level of the home.

• Eco-friendly features modernize homes and may even earn homeowner rebates from the government. From positioning rooms to take advantage of natural sunlight to using environmentally responsible materials throughout a home, modern homes can function with a much smaller carbon footprint than older structures. A smart home is equipped with appliances and other devices that can be controlled remotely, typically from a phone or computer connected to the internet. Investopedia notes that smart home technology offers homeowners convenience and cost savings. Smart home technology is available across a wide range of budgets, ranging from thousands of dollars for a complete home automation to

roughly $100 for a small change like a smart thermostat.

• A home that can grow with its residents is advantageous. When choosing renovations, features like slip-resistant flooring, stylish grab bars and low-threshold or barrierfree showers can enable homeowners to age in place more comfortably.

Dual owner’s suites can be an asset for couples who choose to sleep separately. The Sleep Foundation says individuals choose to sleep in different rooms for a variety of reasons, notably reduced sleep interruptions and improved sleep quality. Plus, an extra bedroom can come in handy when one person is ill or in the event a partner snores. Rather than one person in the relationship getting the “lesser” space, certain homebuilders now offer plans for dual owner’s suites so both people get the features they desire in a bedroom.

• Many homeowners aspire to bridge the gap between the indoors and outside. Threeseason rooms help transition from the yard to the interior of a home and offer a touch of nature without the bugs or unpleasant elements.

• Fading indoors is noted.

Windows that do not feature low-emissivity (Low-E) glass coatings will not block UV rays. Those rays can cause fading with wood floors and furniture, or pretty much anything the sunlight touches. Replacing existing windows with Low-E coating alternatives can safeguard belongings and improve window efficiency.

Florida home prices: Mortgage rates drop, pending sales go up

Staff report

The Florida Realtors Association August 2025 market shows that, statewide, the median single-family home sale price dropped to $410,000, a decline of 0.4 % compared to August of 2024. Townhouses and condo median sales price were reported at $290,000, a 6.5% year over year decrease from last August.

The statewide active listing inventory for single-family homes was 108,762, an increase of 13.1% over last year. Statewide inventory for condos and townhomes was reported at 647,478, a 14% increase.

SINGLE-FAMILY MARKET

Ocala/Marion County’s August median sale price reported for single-family homes was $285,990, which is a 1.4% decrease from 2024.

“Pending sales were up by a significant margin,” said Brad O’Connor, senior economist for the Florida Realtors, a statewide agents’ reporting and professional trade association.

“That’s something we haven’t seen in a while, at least at this magnitude. These sales were up by 10% over last August. The most likely reason is that mortgage rates fell to new lows early in the month. Rates have continued to decline in September.”

Sellers are also having more realistic expectations about home prices, he said.

“Optimism among potential sellers that their homes should still fetch 2022 prices has waned over time as the reality of the

market has set in,” he said.

The association reported the supply of single-family existing homes statewide stood at 5.3-months’ supply, a 17.8% increase over last August.

“Months’ supply inventory is a useful indicator of market conditions,” the report stated.

“The benchmark for a balanced market (favoring neither buyer nor seller) is 5.5 months of inventory. Anything higher is traditionally a buyers’ market and anything lower is a sellers’ market.”

Statewide, the number of cash sales for single-family homes increased by .5% with a total of 5,907 throughout Florida, which was just over 27% of all sales.

“Cash sales can be a useful indicator of the extent to which investors are participating in the market. Investors are far more likely to have the funds to purchase a home available up front, whereas the typical homebuyer requires a mortgage or some other form of financing,” the report stated.

Ocala/Marion County reported 752 single-family home closings, a 5.9% decrease from last August.

TOWNHOUSES AND CONDOS

Locally, the townhouse and condo median sales prices came in at $208.535, a 5.2% decrease from last August. A total of 50 closed sales were reported.

“This segment still has a decline in sales, but with new pending sales rising in August, closings could be up as well,” O’Connor said. “However, August’s decline was typical for this category in 2025, which is reflected by the fact that we are also down 12% for the year overall.”

Statewide, existing condotownhouse properties were at a 9.3-months’ supply in August, an increase of 29.2% from August of 2024, with a reported total active listings of 67,478. For the sector, the number of cash sales increased by 2.2% to 3,700 total and represented nearly 50% of the market.

OCALA/MARION COUNTY HOME PRICES: SINGLE-FAMILY SALES AND PRICE GAINS

Staff report

The Ocala Marion County Association of Realtors (OMCAR) has released the August 2025 market statistics, showing continued strength in the single-family housing sector.

• Closed sales: Single-family home sales totaled 699, up 10% compared to August 2024.

Median sale price: Homes sold for a median price of $295,000, an increase of 2.8% year over year.

Average sale price: Reached $337,292, reflecting a 4.5% gain.

Dollar volume: Sales totaled $235.8 million, up 10% from last year.

• Cash sales: 35.5% of transactions were paid in cash, compared to 29.8% in August 2024.

• New listings: 1,022 new properties entered the market, a 2.8% increase

year-over-year.

Pending sales: Contracts signed on 739 homes, up 16.9% from last year.

Inventory: Active listings rose to 3,806, a 32.2% increase, bringing the months’ supply of inventory to 5.9—indicating a balanced market.

• Median time to contract: Homes went under contract in a median of 71 days, compared to 52 days a year ago.

Median time to sale: Homes closed in a median of 108 days, up from 100 days in August 2024.

“August’s numbers reflect a housing market that continues to provide opportunities for both buyers and sellers,” said Carla Lord, OMCAR president, in the report. “The increase in inventory is giving buyers more options, while steady price growth highlights confidence in Ocala and Marion County’s housing market.”

for Humanity to Build a Home

Ocala, FL — October 3, 2025 — The Ocala Marion County Association of REALTORS® (OMCAR) is proud to announce its partnership with Habitat for Humanity of Marion County to build a Habitat house for a deserving family in the community.

As part of OMCAR’s ongoing commitment to service, REALTORS® will roll up their sleeves to help construct a home that will provide safety, stability, and hope for its future homeowners. This project reflects OMCAR’s dedication not only to serving the real estate needs of Marion County but also to giving back in a meaningful and lasting way.

“Our members are more than real estate professionals—they are neighbors, community leaders, and advocates for positive change,” said Carla Lord, President of OMCAR. “Building this Habitat home is one way we can contribute to the foundation of stronger families and a stronger Ocala/Marion County.”

Construction on the home has already begun, with OMCAR REALTORS® volunteering their time and resources to bring the project to life.

The Ocala Marion County Association of REALTORS® has long been engaged in community-focused initiatives, from local clean-ups to educational support and housing advocacy. This latest project underscores the organization’s mission to be not just the voice of real estate, but also a force for community growth and improvement.

For more information about OMCAR and its community initiatives, please visit www.omcar.com.

About OMCAR

Founded in 1924, the Ocala Marion County Association of REALTORS® represents over 2,600 members dedicated to professionalism, service, and community involvement. Through advocacy, education, and outreach, OMCAR helps shape a better future for Marion County — one home, one family, one act of service at a time. For more information, visit www.omcar.com.

Visit These New Home Models

Visit These New Home Models

855-927-4104

Discover a variety of beautifully designed and quality-built homes to suit every need

Begonia – Inventory Home Available Now!

7464 SW 57th Place, Ocala, FL 34474

2,202 a/c sq. ft. single family home priced at $473,140.

Featuring 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 3 car garage, great room, dining room, laundry suite, and covered lanai.

Gardenia - Inventory Home Available Now!

7216 SW 58th Place Road, Ocala, FL 34474

2,671 a/c sq. ft. single family home priced at $508,770. Featuring 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, 3 car tandem garage, great room, dining room, nest, loft, laundry suite, and covered lanai.

Garnet Model – 6416 SW 78th Court Ocala, FL 34474

1,921 a/c sq. ft. single family home starting at $355,990. Featuring 4 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2 car garage, great room, breakfast area, laundry suite, and patio.

Sable Model – 6428 SW 78th Court Ocala, FL 34474

2,420 a/c sq. ft. single family home starting at $372,990. Featuring 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 2 car garage, great room, living room, game room, breakfast area, laundry suite, and patio.

Gardenia Model – 6440 SW 78th Court Ocala, FL 34474

2,671 a/c sq. ft. single family home starting at $429,990. Featuring 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, 3 car tandem garage, great room, dining room, nest, laundry suite, and covered lanai.

Larkspur Model – 6464 SW 78th Court Ocala, FL 34474

3,089 a/c sq. ft. single family home starting at $449,990. Featuring 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, 3 car tandem garage, great room, dining room, flex room, nest, laundry suite, and covered lanai.

Marigold Model – 6476 SW 78th Court Ocala, FL 34474

3,374 a/c sq. ft. single family home starting at $465,990. Featuring 5 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, 3 car tandem garage, great room, dining room, nest, loft, laundry suite, and covered lanai.

2 baths, 3 car garage with golf cart space, living room, breakfast area, flex room, laundry suite, and a covered lanai.

Beatrix - Inventory Home Available Now! 10880 SW 101st Loop Ocala, FL 34481

2,142 a/c sq. ft. single family home priced at $409,000 featuring 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2 car garage plus golf cart space, living room, flex room, and laundry suite.

Sunflower Model - 8891 SW 75th Loop, Ocala, FL 34481

1,967 a/c sq. ft., single-family home starting at $334,990 featuring 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2 car garage, great room, breakfast nook, laundry suite, and covered lanai.

Wisteria Model - 8895 SW 75th Loop, Ocala, FL 34481

2,126 a/c sq. ft., single-family home starting at $348,990 featuring 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2 car garage, great room, laundry suite, and covered lanai.

Beaumont Model - 10458 SW 96th Loop, Ocala, FL 34481

2,202 a/c sq. ft., single-family home starting at $397,490 featuring 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2 car garage with workshop space, great room, breakfast area, flex room, laundry suite, and covered lanai.

Magnolia Model - 10446 SW 96th Loop, Ocala, FL 34481

2,493 a/c sq. ft., single-family home starting at $418,490 featuring 2 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 2 car garage with golf cart space, great room, breakfast area, flex room, den, laundry suite, and covered lanai.

Arlington Model - 9584 SW 82nd Street Road, Ocala, FL 34481

2,211 a/c sq. ft., single-family home starting at $464,490 featuring 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, 3 car garage, great room, breakfast area, workshop space, laundry suite, and a covered lanai.

Aberdeen Model - 9564 SW 82nd Street Road, Ocala, FL 34481

2,907 a/c sq. ft., single-family home starting at $501,490 featuring 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, 3 car garage, great room, 2nd master suite, breakfast area, flex room, laundry suite, and a covered lanai.

Marion Ranch Bloomfield Model - 8316 SW 46th Ave, Ocala, FL 34476 • 352-677-2262

2,503 a/c Sq. Ft. Single-family home starting at $396,990 featuring

and

lanai.

Model - 8322 SW 46th Ave, Ocala, FL 34476 • 352-677-2262

SOCIAL SCENE

Preserving artifacts

The American Honor Foundation restores historic aircraft and had some on display in Marion County for a special event.

By Susan Smiley-Height susan@magnoliamediaco.com

Gray skies and off and on drizzling rain didn’t put a damper on the American Honor Foundation’s Warbird Fly-In and Classic Car Show at Jumbolair Aviation and Equestrian Estates in Anthony on Sept. 27.

History buffs, car lovers and folks just curious about the event all found something to check out at the Jumbolair/Greystone Airport 17FL event.

The foundation was founded in 2022. According to its website, “Our mission is to inspire and educate future generations about American history and the contributions of our veterans, by collecting, restoring and preserving historical American artifacts. We aim to provide students with a unique educational opportunity to learn about war history and the importance of the blue-collar trades that helped build this country.”

“Our efforts at restoration have assembled an extensive collection of historic military aircraft. These meticulous restorations have saved some of history’s most precious warbirds. We take this a step further by restoring all aircraft to flying condition,” the site notes.

The warbirds listed on the site include three North American P-51D planes, a North American TF-51, an F-86 Sabre, a B-25J Mitchell, a Chance Vought F4U-4 and an F-5 Freedom Fighter. Rotorcraft in the collection includes a Bell UH-1 Iroquois, a Bell AH-1 Cobra, a Hughes OH-6 Cayuse and a Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk.

To learn more, go to americanhonorfoundation.com and find them on social media.

Country cooking with Southern flair

Country cooking elicits visions of straight-from-the-garden vegetables and farm-fresh meats and dairy. For those in the United States, country cooking and Southern cooking may be thought of as interchangeable, as so many homespun meals are made that much more delicious with some southern influence.

Buttermilk-infused recipes are part of any country cook’s repertoire, as are crispy, fried foods. That’s the pairing in this delicious side dish or appetizer for “Buttermilk-Battered Okra Fries With Comeback Sauce” from “Southern Appetizers: 60 Delectables for Gracious Get-Togethers” (Chronicle Books) by Denise Gee.

Buttermilk-Battered Okra Fries With Comeback Sauce Serves

candy thermometer to ensure the temperature stays consistent.)

To

Worcestershire, lemon juice, mustard, black pepper, hot sauce, and paprika. (Or use a medium bowl and whisk to combine all the ingredients.) Season with salt, if needed, cover tightly, and let the sauce sit overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

To make the okra: Place several layers of

you’re not using an electric fryer, use a fry/

In a medium bowl, soak the sliced okra in the buttermilk and set aside.

In a large paper bag or large plastic zip-top bag, combine the flour, cornstarch, 1⁄2 teaspoon salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and cayenne (if using).

Drain the buttermilk-soaked okra and dredge it in the flour mixture. Carefully shake off any excess flour. Fry in batches of seven or eight pieces for 2 to 3 minutes or until crispy and light golden brown, turning them carefully midway through.

Use a fry basket or slotted spoon to remove the okra to drain on the paper towels. While still hot, season the okra with additional salt, if desired. Serve the okra fries immediately with the sauce.

Have a recipe you would like to share? Email us at recipe@ocalagazette.com

South Lake knocks off Forest Eagles edge Wildcats in district clash.

By Mark Pinson Special to the Ocala Gazette

South Lake’s Keydrick

Powell returned the second half kickoff 86 yards for a touchdown and the Eagles’ defense blocked a Forest punt to set up another score to pace a 30-25 win over the Wildcats on Sept. 26.

The Class 6A-District 6 victory improved South Lake to 5-1 overall and 2-0, while the loss dropped Forest to 3-2, 1-1. Despite the loss, first-year Wildcats’ coach John Brantley was proud of the fight his team showed after trailing by a score of 24-0 in the third quarter to have a chance to win the game late in the fourth quarter.

“I’m so proud of this team because they fought their tails off after falling in a big hole,” Brantley said. “They showed a lot of grit, didn’t quit and we were swinging at the very end trying to win the game. This is a learning process for us and this is part of building this program back to where it should be. Am I disappointed we lost, yes, we had a chance to get up in the district and possibly win

a district championship. We didn’t do it, but this is year one of building something special here and I’ve got a lot to work with.”

South Lake took advantage of an interception by Julian White of a pass by Forest junior quarterback Caleb Sanford to set up its first score. The Eagles marched 60 yards in 11 plays, with senior kicker Christopher Mckenna booting a 30-yard field goal to make it 3-0 early in the second quarter.

Forest had trouble moving the ball against an aggressive South Lake defense. A short punt gave the Eagles’ excellent field position at the Wildcats’ 44. Senior running back Tyrese Thompson ripped off several nice runs and junior quarterback Tre Kelly found the end zone on a 7-yard scoring scamper. The extra point by Mckenna gave the Eagles a 10-0 lead with 37 seconds left in the first half.

Forest managed to move the ball into position to attempt a 37-yard field goal, but it was tipped by a South Lake player and fell just short.

Forest kicked off to start the

second half and Powell caught the ball at his 14-yard line, headed up the middle of the field, cut to the left sideline and went untouched for the score. The point after made it 17-0.

Forest went three and out and was forced to punt. South Lake linebacker Terrance Cummings stormed through and blocked the punt with the Eagles recovering the ball on the Wildcats’ 8-yard line.

South Lake scored in one play as Thompson bulled his way into the end zone from 8 yards out. Thompson gained 124 hardearned yards on 26 carries. The extra point gave the Eagles a commanding 24-0 lead with 9:18 left in the third quarter.

“We haven’t had any problems on special teams all year,” Brantley said. “We work on special teams every day in practice and it let us down tonight. Those two plays were the difference in the game.”

Instead of rolling over and quitting, Forest put together a 64-yard drive as Sanford completed several passes, including a 13-yard touchdown toss to junior wide receiver Cairyn Roberts. Sanford

completed 15 of 25 passes for 177 yards. The point after was blocked leaving the Wildcats trailing by a score of 24-6.

South Lake was forced to punt and a good return gave Forest the ball at midfield.

Sanford used his legs to scramble for a first down but was hit hard and had to leave the game for a few plays. Backup quarterback Grant Vowinkel came in and moved the team inside the Eagles’ 5-yard line. Rivers powered his way across the goal line from 2 yards out. The 2-point pass was incomplete to make it 24-12 late in the third period.

South Lake, a talented team, answered with a 73-yard drive capped by Kelly scoring his second touchdown of the night on a short run. Kelly rushed eight times for 42 yards. A 2-point run was stuffed but the Eagles led 30-12.

Forest showed great resolve by moving 80 yards in two plays with junior Cortney Brown taking a reverse 66 yards for a touchdown. The point after by senior Kevin Morales pulled the Wildcats within 30-19 with 9:29 left in the game.

With momentum clearly on its side and the homecoming crowd roaring, Forest forced a South Lake punt. The Wildcats marched down the field and Rivers capped a 64yard drive with a 17-yard scoring burst through the middle of the Eagles defense. Sanford’s 2-point pass was incomplete to make it 3025 with 4:43 remaining to play.

A swarming Forest defense forced yet another South Lake punt and the Wildcats took possession at their 42 with 3:01 left in the game. Sanford connected with senior Jayden Serrano on a 23-yard pass to the Eagles’ 35. Three incomplete passes left the Wildcats facing fourth and 10 and a Sanford scramble came up just short of the first down marker turning the ball over to South Lake. Forest was out of time outs and South Lake kept the ball on the ground to secure the hardfought district victory.

“South Lake is a good football team,” Brantley said. “But it’s not about them, it’s about us. We learned a lot about ourselves tonight and now we can turn our attention to our next game and get ready for Wesley Chapel.”

Government

OCT. 6, 13, 20 AND 27

Marion County Development Review

Office of County Engineer, 412 SE 25th Ave., Building 1, Ocala

9am

The committee meets each Monday to review and vote on waiver requests to the Land Development Code, major site plans and subdivision plans. See marion.fl.legistar.com/ calendar.aspx for agenda and minutes.

OCT. 7 AND 21

Marion County Board of County Commissioners

McPherson Governmental Campus Auditorium, 601 SE 25th Ave., Ocala

9am

The commission meets the first and third Tuesday of the month. Agendas, minutes and video are available at marionfl.legistar.com/ calendar.aspx

Ocala City Council

Ocala City Hall, 110 SE Watula Ave., Ocala

4pm

The council meets each first and third Tuesday of the month. Agendas and minutes are available at ocala.legistar.com/calendar.aspx

Belleview City Commission

Belleview City Hall, 5343 SE Abshier Blvd., Belleview

6pm

The commission meets the first and third

Community Arts

OCT. 4

“Color Me Courageous” exhibit, opening reception

Healing Art Gallery, 2880 NE 8th Road, Ocala

11am-3pm

The nonprofit Arts in Health Ocala Metro is opening a gallery dedicated to art that speaks to the connection between creativity and healing. The inaugural exhibition is “Color Me Courageous: Glimpses of a healing journey through art expressions” by artist Roseprimevere. It will be on display through March 31, 2026, with viewings by appointment. Learn more by calling (352) 723-5444.

Party in Purple Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place, 1821 NW 21st Ave., Ocala

10am-12:30pm Proceeds of the dance fitness party will benefit local victims and survivors of domestic violence. To learn more, call the Marion County Children’s Alliance at (352) 438-5990 and find the event on Eventbrite.

Marion County Parks & Recreation Carnival

Southeastern Livestock Pavilion, 2232 NE Jacksonville Road, Ocala

5-9pm

The event will include games, candy, music, food trucks, giveaways, hayrides and a petting zoo. Admission is free but youth activities armbands cost $5/child or five non-perishable donations for Bring the Harvest Home. For details, call (352) 671-8560.

Heroes Unite

St. Mark’s United Methodist Church, 1839 NE 8th Road, Ocala

6pm The event is a fundraiser for the nonprofit Ora Clubhouse. It will include a costume contest, silent auction, food and prizes. Learn more by calling (352) 402-9001.

Master Gardeners Plant Sale

Southeastern Livestock Pavilion, 2232 NE Jacksonville Road, Ocala

8am-noon

The UF IFAS Marion County Master Gardeners and UF IFAS Extension Marion County event is free to attend. It will include sales of pollinator plants, shade and fruit trees, shrubs, herbs, native grasses and wildflowers. Learn more at sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu

All Breed Horse Capital Parade Downtown Ocala

10am

The parade will showcase horses of all breeds and disciplines, highlighting the local equine industry. Learn more at ocalacep.com OCT. 11

Craig Pittman: The State You’re

In Headquarters-Ocala Public Library, 2720 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala

11am Pittman is a native Floridian, best-selling author, podcaster, award-winning environmental reporter, writes a weekly column on environmental issues and is cohost of the podcast “Welcome to Florida.” Call (352) 671-8551 for more information.

Get In Formation Fitness DanceA-Thon Paddock Mall, 3100 SW College Road, Ocala 9am-3pm

Tuesday of the month. Agendas, minutes and video available at belleviewfl.org/200/ agendas-minutes

MULTIPLE DATES

MCPS town hall meetings

Locations below

5:45pm

Marion County Public Schools Interim

Superintendent Dr. Danielle Brewer will host town hall gatherings, which are open to all.

• Oct. 16 – Osceola Middle School, 526 SE Tuscawilla Ave., Ocala Nov. 13 – North Marion Middle School, 2085 W. CR 329, Citra Dec. 18 – Dunnellon Middle School, 21005 Chestnut St., Dunnellon

Anyone with questions can call (352) 671-7555.

OCT. 14 AND 28

Marion County School Board 1614 E Fort King St., Ocala

5:30pm The board meets on the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month. Agendas and minutes are available at go.boarddocs.com/fl/marion/ Board.nsf/Public

OCT. 8

Dunnellon City Council

Dunnellon City Hall, 20750 River Dr., Dunnellon

5:30pm The council generally meets the second Wednesday of the month. Agendas, minutes and video are available at dunnellon.granicus. com/ViewPublisher.php?view_id=1

OCT. 3

“Nocturne: A Show of Good Spirits exhibit opens The Brick Gallery, 23 SW Broadway St. Ocala

5-7pm

The Marion Cultural Alliance invites the community to a special opening reception, with wine, beer, light refreshments and the chance to meet and mingle with featured artists. Admission is free. “Nocturne” will be on display through Oct. 31. For a full list of exhibit events and gallery hours, visit mcaocala.org

OCT. 4

Free First Saturday

CF Appleton Museum of Art, Appleton Museum of Art, 4333 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala 10am-5pm

Free admission to explore the permanent collection, special exhibitions and artmaking activities. At 11 a.m., join photographer John Elliott for a tour of his solo exhibition, “The Human Pulse.” Casita Luna, Brew Hope Coffee and Donut Express food trucks will be onsite. Learn more at appletonmuseum.org

OCT. 4 AND OTHER DATES

Ira Holmes International Film Series

Various locations and times

The College of Central Florida’s annual series will celebrate its 64th season with Beatles-related screenings, talks and special events. The season launches at 6:30 pm Oct. 4 on the Ocala downtown square for a karaoke party and screening of “A Hard Day’s Night.” For the complete schedule and locations, go to cf.edu/filmseries

OCT. 4

Given To Fly – The Pearl Jam Experience

Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE 9th St., Ocala

7:30 pm

The breast cancer awareness fundraiser will include 3D mobile mammography screenings. There are eligibility guidelines for women who are uninsured or who have insurance. Find the details at thebeautifulgateinc.com/events/ mammogram-screening-ocala-dance-a-thon/

Bunco Tournament Fundraiser

Southeastern Livestock Pavilion, 2232 Jacksonville Road, Ocala

5pm The Bunco Babes of Ocala host their 13th annual tournament, with proceeds to benefit the nonprofit Michelle-O-Gram, which provides breast cancer diagnostics and more. The event will include dinner, prizes, auction items and a drawing. Call or text Candy Homan at (352) 8123585 or Angela VanRyn at (352) 235-1148.

OCT. 10-12

Jeeptoberfest

Florida Horse Park, 11008 S Hwy 475, Ocala

Various times

Obstacles and courses include a mud pit and bleachers line the trails so spectators can enjoy the action in this annual fundraiser for local charities. Vendors, food trucks and a “duck drop” via helicopter Oct. 11. Get details at ocalajeepclub.com

OCT. 15 (RSVP DEADLINE)

Flying into the Future Fundraising Gala

Sheltair Aviation, 1770 SW 60th Ave., Ocala

5pm

Get ready to soar with Transitions Life Center for an evening of chef-driven action stations, craft cocktails, live entertainment and aviation-themed fun on Nov. 15. Contact kylie. leeward@tlcocala.org or call (352) 877-8999.

OCT. 22

Howl-O-Ween Paw-ty

Southeastern Livestock Pavilion, 2232 Jacksonville Road, Ocala

The Humane Society of Marion County event will include trunk-or-treating, food, games, costume contests and more. To register, go to app.giveffect. com/campaigns/38436-7th-annual-howl-o-ween

OCT. 23

College of Central Florida Frontier Expo

Ewers Century Center, 3001 S.W. College Road, Ocala 5:30pm Guest speaker Rachel Ludwig, with the Florida Chamber of Commerce, will talk about workforce trends and high-demand careers. Attendees can participate in breakout sessions that allow them to assemble a personal computer, get started with coding and safeguard digital life. Attendees at the free event can network with employers in the tech, government and business sectors and connect with admissions staff and advisors. To register, go to cf.edu/frontierexpo

OCT. 24

Tales from Six Gun Territory Headquarters-Ocala Public Library, 2720 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala

3pm Saddle up for a Wild West ride with librarian Taylor Benson. Explore the history of the famous attraction and meet the cowpokes who made it happen. To learn more, call (352) 671-8551.

Lead singer Bob Donahue’s voice is strikingly like Eddie Vedder’s with its rich tone, occasional growl and storytelling quality and the band nails the grungy Pearl Jam sound. Learn more at reillyartscenter.com

OCT. 5

Walking with Ghosts: An Evening of True Crime

Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE 9th St., Ocala

3:30pm Join paranormal investigator Amy Bruni for a chilling look at some real murder cases and the hauntings they left behind. Find details at reillyartscenter.com

OCT. 10

Reilly Noir Series: Frank Vignola

Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE 9th St., Ocala

7:30pm Guitarist Frank Vignola’s career spans performances at Carnegie Hall and collaborations with legends like Ringo Starr and Les Paul. Learn more at reillyartscenter.com

OCT. 25

Books, Balls and Blocks Developmental Screening  Early Learning Coalition of Marion County, 2300 SW 17th Road, Ocala 10am-noon The free event is for families with children birth to 5 years old. While children play, parents/guardians can complete a questionnaire to screen children for developmental delays. Information on community resources, events and programs to support children’s healthy development. For more information, call (352) 369-2315 or visit elc-marion.org.

OCT. 11

Broken Hearts: Tribute to Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers

Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE 9th St., Ocala

7:30pm All-star lineup led by Petty’s former bandmate Charlie Souza and vocalist Shawn Scheller. Experience a tribute honoring one of rock’s greatest icons. Get details at reillyartscenter.com

OCT. 15

Zora Listened! Storyteller Diane Johnson

Sankofa Public Library 1821 NW 21st Ave. Ocala 11am Zora Neale Hurston, African American author, playwright, poet, anthropologist and folklorist, collected the stories, songs and poems of people in northeast Florida. Storyteller Diane Johnson will bring Hurston to life in this free event. Call (352) 671-8551 for more information.

THROUGH OCT. 16

“The Gap Between Art and Life” College of Central Florida Webber Gallery, 3001 S.W. College Road, Ocala 10am-4 pm, Monday-Thursday This immersive biennial is an exhibition of installation art. Eight artworks by seven artists offer something unexpected. Admission is free. To learn more, go to cf.edu/webber

THROUGH JAN. 18

“The Human Pulse: Photographs by John Elliott” Appleton Museum of Art, 4333 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala The exhibit features 42 black-and-white prints from the Ocala-based photographer’s ongoing series, “The Human Pulse,” shaped by his life and travels. Learn more at appletonmuseum.org

THROUGH FEB. 22

“Under the Cover of Knowledge: Betty Ford-Smith’s Pinecone Quilts” Appleton Museum of Art, 4333 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala Ford-Smith’s quilts are striking, contemporary interpretations of the traditional pinecone quilt, a form rooted in African American quilting practices dating to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. To learn more, go to appletonmuseum.org

THROUGH OCT. 31

“The Heart of the Turf: Racing’s Black Pioneers” Various locations and times The Keeneland Library launched the exhibit, which follows the lives and contributions of Black horsemen and women and includes interpretive panels, photographs, artwork, artifacts and video interviews. The exhibit may be seen 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekdays at the FTBOA museum and gallery at 801 SW 60th Ave., Ocala. To learn more, go to keeneland.com/keeneland-library/heart-turfracings-black-pioneers and ftboa.com

OBITUARY

Sharon Scott Lunney Bender

October 27, 1942 - August 28, 2025

Ocala - In Loving Memory of Sharon Scott Lunney Bender.

Sharon Scott Lunney Bender, age 82, passed away peacefully on August 28, 2025, at 9:00 AM, at HCA Marion Hospital in Ocala, Florida.

Sharon was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania to Harrison and Margaret Lunney. She grew up alongside her beloved siblings: Ethel, Jack Harriett and Linda.

Sharon is survived by her devoted husband of 61 years Frederick Bender, and their children Susan & Rich Hopkins, Christine Bender, Rob & Leslie Bender. She was the most loving, caring and giving Grandmother to Heather, Michael, Holly, Tiffany, Steven, Christopher, Nicholas, Cole and Connor, and GreatGrandmother to Alanna, Lukas, Emmett, Walker, Landon, Waylon, Charlotte and Sophia. And she is deeply missed by her loyal dog, Molly. Sharon was affectionately known as Mom, Grammy, and Aunt Cookie.

Her passions included spending time with her family, arts & crafts, traveling, camping, and reading Danielle Steel novels. Sharon was deeply loved and respected by family and friends across the country from Pittsburgh PA, Clayton CA, Brentwood CA, Linden NC, and Ocala FL. She dedicated many years to caring and nurturing young children at KinderCare Learning Center in Concord, CA; and retired in 1999, leaving behind a legacy of compassion. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Sharon’s memory to the American Heart Association (AHA). Services will be held at Countryside Presbyterian Church on November 26th at 10AM at 7768 SW State Rd 200, Ocala, FL 34476.

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.