The Lake County Sheriff’s Office Special Investigations Unit wrapped up a two-month operation yesterday evening that targeted illegal gambling establishments throughout the county. During the investigation, which detectives dubbed Operation Jackpot, detectives obtained search warrants for 10 business and made 4 arrests on various charges.
The investigation was initiated after receiving multiple citizen complaints about several of the businesses possibly being illegal gambling establishments, as well as similar tips received through Central Florida CRIMELINE.
As the investigation progressed, detectives were able to establish that all 10 locations were engaging in illegal gambling activities, and as a result, search warrants for each location were obtained. Continue reading
Birding is the fastest growing new activity and January is peak birding time in central Florida so join Oklawaha Valley Audubon Society for a field trip and start 2018 off right. On Friday, January 5, 2018, 8:00 am – 12:00 pm they will be doing Golf Cart Birding with the Villages Birding Club which is free. On Sunday, January 14, 2018, 8:00 am – 2:00 pm they will be going to Circle B Reserve Birding and the cost is $10 for members and $15 for non members. Both trips will have expert guides and everyone is welcome no matter what your level of experience. Attendees are encouraged to bring binoculars, cameras, hats, water, snacks and wear comfortable hiking clothes and shoes. Email rayesm105@aol.com or call/text 609-553-0757 for details to register in advance.
Jo Foster, left, and her daughter-in-law, Pam Foster, unveil the bronze plaque commemorating the dedication of the E. L. Foster, Jr. Volunteer Services Program at a celebration at Hospice of Marion County on December 5, 2017.
The Volunteer Services Program at Hospice of Marion County (HMC) has been aptly named for a former mayor and staunch supporter of philanthropic efforts in Ocala. E. L. Foster, Jr. who served as mayor from 1995-2002 was also on the HMC Board of Directors from 2003-2005. A longtime financial supporter of HMC, Foster’s legacy as a volunteer will live on among HMC’s 700 volunteers, who provide patient support, fundraising and administrative assistance to the area’s only non-profit hospice.
His wife Jo says the recognition is a tribute to her husband’s philosophy of giving back: “In the early days of Hospice of Marion County, we were on the giving end. In E.L.’s last days, we were on the receiving end. We came full circle and I can tell you it is a wonderful organization. E. L. loved Hospice of Marion County.” Foster died last year at the age of 82. Continue reading
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