Ocala Magazine July 2026

Featuring the young professionals leading today and inspiring tomorrow

Just Listed

10-ACRE FARM MINUTES FROM WEC

16421 W Hwy 326, Morriston 32668 — Te residence ofers an inviting open-concept design with a spacious kitchen and living area ideal for everyday living and entertaining. A dedicated ofce, foor plan includes three bedrooms and three full baths. Screen-enclosed pool and lanai, peaceful views overlooking the barn, paddocks, and surrounding countryside. Te farm is thoughtfully laid out with beautiful fenced pastures and a quality center-aisle barn. $1,078,250

TURNING HAWK – 5± ACRES

1351 SE 91st Pl, Ocala 34480 — $1,399,000

• Gated Community

• Access to Florida Greenways and Trails

• Grand Foyer & elegant interiors flled with natural light

• 4 Bedrooms • 4.5 Baths • Plus Ofce • 4,686± SF

• Family Room features cofered ceilings and Italian marble freplace.

NW MARION COUNTY – 3.26± ACRES

2303 NW 145th St, Citra 32113 — $499,500

• Located on the corner of Hwy 441 and NW 145th St

• Road frontage on 2 roads

• Zoned A-1

• Easy access to Ocala and Gainesville

TURNING HAWK RANCH –EQUINE FRIENDLY

1300 SW 43rd Pl, Ocala 34471 — $1,787,000

• European-Inspired Estate on 5± Acres in Gated Equestrian Community

• Direct Access to Florida Greenways and Trails

• 4 Bedrooms • 4.5 Baths • Plus Ofce

• Game Room and a Media Room

• Resort-style pool, expansive patio, and summer kitchen

ELEGANT ESTATE IN THE COUNTRY CLUB OF OCALA

7963 SE 12th Circle, Ocala 34480 — $2,297,000

• Sits on over two landscaped acres.

• Refned French Country interiors and impressive foyer.

• Dramatic family room with black stone freplace, vaulted ceilings, cypress beams, and built-in cabinetry.

• Includes a private ofce and a chef’s kitchen connecting to outdoor areas.

• Serene golf-course views from the screened pool area, ideal for entertaining.

JUST REDUCED! JUST REDUCED!

LAKEFRONT ELEGANCE ON OVER 14.71± ACRES

10893 SE 141st Avenue Rd, Ocklawaha 32179 — $1,525,000

• 500± feet of private shoreline on Lake Fay.

• Zoned A-1 with fenced grounds

• Remodeled main residence with stone freplace, owner’s suite, and a screened pool with outdoor kitchen.

• Additional amenities include guest house and equipment barn.

• Just 20 minutes from Te Villages.

List with us today!

Considering Ocala

ON TOP OF THE WORLD LONGLEAF RIDGE

10555 SW 96th Lane Rd, Ocala 34481 — $789,000

• 55+ Community

• Stunning Dunbar Model

• Triple Split Floor Plan

• 3 Bedrooms • 3 Baths • 2,307± SF

• Resort-Style Community— golf courses, on-site restaurants, café and shops

LUXURIOUS 15-ACRE ESTATE

1212 SW 80th St, Ocala 34476 — $2,390,000

• Lush landscaped courtyard and screen-enclosed pool.

• Open foor plan, double-sided freplace, hardwood foors, formal dining, and a chef’s kitchen.

• Private ofce, an owner’s suite with spa bath and pool access, plus two ensuite bedrooms.

• Stables 8 stalls.

12230 SE Timucuan Rd, Summer feld 34491 — $587,380

• Beautifully updated

• Situated on two lots for added privacy.

• 3 Bedrooms • 3.5 Baths • Over 2,700 SF.

• Direct access to the water with your own boathouse and canal frontage leading to Lake Weir.

• Perfect blend of comfort, style, and waterfront lifestyle.

PREMIER TRAINING CENTER – 47± ACRES

HORSE COMPLEX 10.02± ACRES 19431 NE 17th Pl, Williston 32696 — $3,750,000

7505 SW 73rd St, Ocala 34476 — $995,000

• Tack and feed room, plus a full bath for convenience.

• Upstairs lounge/meeting area for relaxation or gatherings.

• Round pen, Eurociser, and loading chute for optimal care.

• 5/8-mile racetrack within the complex, perfect for daily training and competitive riders.

• Generously sized paddocks with ample space to roam and graze with convenient access to local amenities.

• Own 1/2 share in a premier 3/4± mile racetrack

• 3 Barns with 138 Stalls and Workshop

• Ofce, 8 Round pens, 3 wash racks tack room, and feed storage

• Renovated Mobile Home

• Additional acreage and home also available

SADDLEBROOK EQUESTRIAN COMMUNITY

JUST REDUCED! 1145 NW 63rd Ct, Ocala 34482 — $1,599,000

• 6.24± acre estate

• 3.90± miles to World Equestrian Center

• 4 bedrooms • 4 baths • Toughtfully designed

• Flex room, Ofce, and two additional bonus rooms

• Exceptional opportunity to enjoy Ocala’s worldclass horse country

64 Society: Fort King Member Appreciation

66 Community: Night of Equestrian Charity

68 Recipe: Watermelon, Feta & Arugula Salad

70 Dining Out

72 Everything Equine: Conserving the Critically Endangered Dales Pony

74 Health Journal: A New Pathway to Nursing Advancement

76 State of the City: Preparedness Begins at Home

78 State of the County: Places and Programs That Tell Our Story

80 From the Library: Books and Art Make History Come Alive

82 Maddie’s Take: A New Chapter

84 Destinations: Uncovering the Living History at Fort King

Philip Glassman, CCIM | Publisher philip@ocalamagazine.com

Penny Miller | VP/Corporate Development penny@ocalamagazine.com

EDITORIAL

Sharon Raye | Editor sharon@ocalamagazine.com

Ronald W. Wetherington | Society Editor ron@ocalamagazine.com

Louisa Barton | Equine Editor

Sarah Lajealle | Art Editor sarah@ocalamagazine.com

ART

Em Agency | Design OM Sta | Digital Media

PHOTOGRAPHY

Hannah Durham | Sta! Photographer

CONTRIBUTORS

Mark Anderson | Columnist

Darling Hill | Columnist

Madison Glassman | Columnist

Mayor Ben Marciano | Columnist

OPERATIONS

Randy Woodru , CPA | CFO randy@ocalamagazine.com

The Equestrian Manor at World Equestrian Center – Ocala sets a new standard for luxury events in Central Florida. Conveniently situated adjacent to The Riding Academy Hotel and The Shoppes Off 80th, guests can experience refined event spaces alongside extraordinary culinary offerings.

CONTRIBUTORS

Philip Glassman, CCIM

Publisher

Philip has been at the helm of OM for eight years with over 27 FMA awards. He is also an astute businessman, working primarily in the commercial real estate arena, and joint venturing in business start-ups. Philip is a current SAGAFTRA actor, a creative thinker, and father to two beautiful children

Em Agency Design

The Em team specializes in marketing, branding and publication design. They are led by Jamie Mark, who served as the Creative Director of Ocala Magazine from 2005 to 2009 and the Editorial/Creative Director until 2011— it's most award-winning era. Learn more at emagency.com.

Sarah Lajealle Art Editor

Sarah studied English and History at Purdue University and Biblical Studies at Indiana Wesleyan. She has lived in Ohio, Indiana, and North Carolina, eventually settling in Ocala in 2020. Sarah is a resident artist at The Magnolia Art Exchange, and her artwork has been shown at the Appleton Museum of Art. A mother of three, she is passionate about living an authentic life.

Ben Marciano

Mayor's Column

Born in New York and raised in Ocala, Ben is the mayor of Ocala and co-owner of Zone Health and Fitness with his wife, Danielle. A former executive director of the DeLuca YMCA, he holds an associate degree in criminal justice from the College of Central Florida. Ben and Danielle have three children and attend Blessed Trinity Catholic Church.

Madison Glassman Maddie’s Take Columnist

Madison is a middle school student whose favorite subject is Language Arts. Dancing is her ultimate passion. She’s been going to dance school since she was only three years old. As a proud member of the OM team, she loves getting involved in the creative process of writing her column.

Hannah Durham Sta! Photographer

Hannah is a photographer and creative who loves cooking and working on creative projects. When she isn’t behind the camera, she coaches tennis and loves hunting through thrift shops for pieces with character. She’s passionate about creativity, community, and finding beauty in everyday life.

Penny Miller VP/Corporate Development

Penny has been with OM for over 20 years. She’s authored five books, owns a media company, and founded the Marion County Homeless Coalition. She was appointed Commissioner by four governors, served on the Barbara Bush Literacy Foundation Advisory Board, and led the College Park Kiwanis Club. Her greatest joy is her four children and five grandchildren.

Sharon Raye Editor

Sharon, a South Florida native, has lived in Ocala for over a decade. A former actress and model with 20 years of experience in Florida, New York, and abroad, she is passionate about the arts, writing, and natural health. She enjoys travel, good food, and new cultures, with her daughter as her greatest joy.

Ronald W. Wetherington Society Editor

Born to a pioneering Miami family, Ron moved to Ocala in 2007 and purchased the Fort King Manor apartment building in Ocala's prestigious historic district. Since his early days as a society editor in Miami Beach, Ron has devoted his writing and dedicated his photography to charity.

Ryan Kirby State of the City Columnist

Ryan Kirby is a public relations specialist with Ocala Electric Utility and a proud Ocala native. A University of Florida graduate, he began his career with the City of Ocala in 2014 and remains passionate about keeping residents informed and engaged. Ryan lives in Ocala with his wife, Aly, and their two daughters.

Mark Anderson State of the County Columnist

Mark Anderson is a Public Relations Specialist for Marion County, where he specializes in photography, writing and anything else that comes his way.

Louisa Barton Equine Editor

Louisa is the Equine Initiative Director at the Ocala Metro Chamber and Economic Partnership, Realtor at Black Horse Realty and host of the Horse Talk Show on the Sky 97.3, Audacy.com and Equus Television

Weather the Water. Storm season

is here. Prepare today.

Ocala Water Resources is prepared to keep your water safe, fowing and reliable. Every division from water treatment, and distribution to maintenance, collection and wastewater works together to protect our community’s water.

During heavy rain, wastewater systems can become overwhelmed. What you do at home helps prevent backups and fooding.

What you can do before the storm:

Know where your main water shutof valve is.

Fill tubs and sinks for toilet and sanitation use.

Store at least one gallon of water per person, per day up to three days.

Update your contact information for alerts.

Visit our website for more tips during and after the storm.

Scan the QR code or visit ocalaf.gov/weatherthewater for more information.

Ocala International Airport

WWhat Makes Marion County Special

ell, it’s July and summer is defnitely here. It’s as hot as it could be. I walk outside and can barely breathe. I’m looking forward to spending time with my family and taking a trip to San Francisco and Yosemite, where it will be much cooler and we’ll be able to do some hiking, see waterfalls and spend time in nature. With my kids out of school for the summer, I’m happy to have a little more time with them before school starts back up.

We recently attended the Florida Magazine Association’s Charlie Awards in Orlando, and Ocala Magazine continues to be the most award-winning magazine in the region, bringing home three more awards this year.

On a more personal note, July also marks my daughter’s 15th birthday. Watching her grow into the young lady she has become reminds me how important it is that every child has the support and resources they need to succeed. Tat’s one of the reasons I appreciate the work being done through Ready for Success.

Trough the Community Foundation, Ready for Success partners with four local nonprofts to help children throughout Marion County return to school confdent and prepared for the year ahead. Programs like these are just one of the many things that make Marion County such a special place to call home.

You know, we’re really blessed in Marion County because we sit on the aquifer, and that’s what makes this area so special. Not only does it support our horse industry and beautiful farmland, but it also gives us access to incredible springs like Silver Springs, Rainbow Springs, Alexander Springs and so many others nearby, all with 72-degree water year-round. It’s just beautiful. I took the kids to Rainbow Springs the other day, where we spent time hiking, saw the waterfalls and then cooled of in the crystal-clear spring water. Sometimes we forget just how lucky we are to have all of this right in our own backyard.

Tis year’s 40 Under 40 was photographed at Koontz Furniture, and I want to congratulate all of our honorees. It’s inspiring to see so many young professionals pursuing their passions and giving back to the community. I also want to thank Koontz Furniture for opening its doors to us. Teir gorgeous showroom and furnishings created a beautiful setting for our photo shoot and helped showcase this year’s honorees in a memorable way.

As always, thank you to our loyal readers.

PHILIP GLASSMAN, PUBLISHER

OFMC AESTHETICS & LASER

Deborah Scott, LPN, LE

Dermatological Nurse - Esthetician 30+ years of experience

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Residents throughout our community are using Healthy Ocala to connect with the help they need.

Healthy Ocala: Helping Residents Find Support

It ’s difcult enough to navigate mental health challenges when things are going well, but during a crisis, fnding the help you need can become exponentially more difcult.

When I was frst elected mayor, I partnered with the Marion County Hospital District to launch Healthy Ocala because of the number of calls I was receiving from residents who didn’t know where to turn for help. I quickly realized there wasn’t a single place where people could easily fnd resources for a variety of needs.

Together with the Hospital District, we created a digital platform where residents can access mental health services and a wide range of other community resources in one convenient location. Since its inception, Healthy Ocala has grown into a comprehensive resource hub where people can fnd everything from rental assistance and childcare services to mental health treatment and addiction recovery programs.

We’ve discovered that the platform is reaching thousands of people each month. Residents throughout our community are using the site to connect with the help they need.

Simply type “Healthy Ocala” into your search engine, and you’ll fnd it. Te platform is connected to the Marion County Hospital District website, and service providers can submit their organizations for inclusion. New submissions are reviewed and typically added within 24 hours.

To say I’m grateful for the Hospital District’s support would be an understatement. Programs like Healthy Ocala truly make a diference in our community.

Ben Marciano MAYOR OF OCALA

JOIN HOPS AND PARTICIPATE IN YOUR COMMUNITY — KEEP OCALA’S HISTORY ALIVE.

As a resident of Ocala’s historic district, you’re part of a living legacy. HOPS works to preserve the charm, character, and heritage of our beautiful neighborhoods. Become a member and invest in the future of our community—because history is worth protecting.

Get your copy of the sequel to David Cook’s book, with new articles and history. $25 Available at Your Hearts Desire in Ocala Shopping Center and the HOPS Bryant House at 712 E. Fort King St. Proceeds bene t preservation e orts in our community.

Forty young professionals. Forty unique stories. One shared commitment to making Ocala a better place to live, work and grow.

UNDER

4O

Location generously provided by Koontz Furniture & Design

Erica Dyce

33 / Yoga Instructor, The Vines Hospital

What drives me is helping people feel stronger, healthier and more connected to themselves. I’m proud of my ability to use yoga to make a positive impact in my community. One highlight was leading a class for “Workout with the Mayor.” People are surprised to learn that I was in banking for 10 years before becoming a yoga instructor. Advice that stays with me is a quote by Tunde Oyeneyin:

“Today is a great day to have a really, really great day.” My goal is to continue breaking down barriers between movement and mental

Melanie Saporito Winkel

26 / Event Manager, World Equestrian Center (WEC) Ocala

What drives me is the opportunity to keep learning and challenging myself. I’m proud of the life and career I’ve built for myself and the confidence I’ve gained along the way. People are surprised to learn that I love nature and being creative, so I’m usually working on a DIY house project or dreaming up my next garden plan. Advice that stays with me is “Focus on what you can control, not what you can’t.” My goal is to build a happy family, continue growing professionally and

Isiah Blount

32 / Educator, Wyomina Park Elementary School

What drives me is the belief that one interaction can change the direction of someone’s life. I’m proud of my impact. Former students, parents and community members reach out to tell me something I said stayed with them. People are surprised to learn how many ideas I have running through my head. Many of my biggest goals began as scribbles in notebooks. Advice that stays with me came from my grandfather. He told me to “Be myself 100% of the time so no one can convince others that I’m someone else. But if they do, don’t let the percentage drop!” My goal is to help young people discover confidence, creativity and belonging.

Megan Moeder

37 / Marketing Director, OFMC

What drives me is my nature as a driven person. I’m proud of my two boys who are truly my world. They bring so much joy, adventure and perspective to my life. I’m incredibly proud of my professional achievements, but the family my husband and I have built is what I’m most grateful for. People are surprised to learn that I have never seen snow! It’s on my bucket list.Advice that stays with me is “Keep the faith.” Celebrate the good, stay grateful and trust that God has a plan during the difcult moments. My goal is to continue growing and learning. I also look forward to checking more places of my travel list.

Matthew Lawrence Schwanke

39 / CEO, Outdoor Valor

What drives me is, when I buried my brothers from the Iraq War, one of their widows told me not to be sad but to live a life worthy of their sacrifice and do something that would make them proud. I’m proud of our ability to serve more than 2,100 veterans throughout the Southeast, with no reported suicides among them. People are surprised to learn that I was a model in high school and modeled for Belk, JCPenney and others. Advice that stays with me is “The body can be trained, but the mind must be forged.” My goal is to create a national beacon of hope for veterans struggling with PTSD.

Javier Omar

Zapata Sanchez

30 / Creative Director, Young Cultures Media & Young Cultures Clothing

What drives me is my faith and the calling to serve others. That keeps me focused every day. I’m proud of the businesses I built from the ground up, and my ability to help local businesses and spread the Word of God at the same time. People are surprised to learn how much my journey has been shaped by faith. A lot of what I do today came from moments where I had to trust God, through the challenges. Advice that stays with me is “Stay consistent and trust God’s timing,” especially during moments when things don’t happen as expected My goal is to grow my brands and expand my impact beyond Ocala. I also hope to build a strong family in the future.

Ryne Rainey

37 / Business Owner, RN, BSN, Deep Roots Cabinet Company, Hello Little One 3D/4D, Hello Sunshine Tanning Co., HEA Consultants

What drives me is the opportunity to serve others and make a positive impact in my community. I’m proud of my success balancing several careers. My roles as a deputy sherif, an ER trauma nurse and a business owner challenge me in diferent ways. People are surprised to learn that my professional journey began in law enforcement and health care. Advice that stays with me is “Show up consistently, even when no one is watching.” My goal is to grow businesses that create opportunities for others and build a strong foundation for my three daughters.

Kelsey Colangelo

26 / Assistant Controller of Resort Operations, WEC What drives me is my husband and son, who inspire me to work hard to build a better future. I’m proud of being a mother while continuing to grow in my career. People are surprised to learn that I originally pursued nursing before finding my passion in accounting and finance. Advice that stays with me is ”Be coachable.” No matter how much experience you have, there is always something new to learn. My goal is to continue growing as a leader and mentor, helping others develop their skills and confidence while making a meaningful impact.

Bryan Caracciolo

37 / President/Owner, BWC Construction, BWC Capital Group, Ocala Leadership Conference, Brick City Hospitality Group and Old Florida Collection

What drives me is the opportunity to create something bigger than myself, whether it’s homes, businesses, jobs or future leaders. I’m proud of the family I have built with my wife, Corin. Professionally, I am proud to have earned a place on the Inc. 5000 list of America’s fastest-growing private companies. People are surprised to learn that one of my greatest passions is coaching. I believe leadership starts early, and the lessons learned through sports help leaders later in life. Advice that stays with me is “If your goals don’t scare you, they’re not big enough.” Growth only happens outside your comfort zone My goal is to leave a legacy that extends far beyond business. I want to continue developing projects and creating opportunities that strengthen our communities. Most importantly, I hope to be remembered for the people I helped, the leaders I mentored and the positive impact I made on others.

“Success is not defined by a single achievement, but by the positive impact I can make on the people around me and the legacy I leave behind.”

— Alex Sosa

Hannah DeLong

36 / eCommerce Marketing Manager, Schlage; President-Elect, Junior League of Ocala

What drives me is finding the good in people. I’m proud of many milestones this year. In my “day job,” I accepted a new role that has challenged me while building confidence in my skills and expertise. In my role as Community Impact Director, the Junior League of Ocala Diaper Bank distributed 19,000 diapers to families in our community. People are surprised to learn that I’m a bit of a car enthusiast. While my fiancé is more about the driving experience, I appreciate the aesthetics and enjoy being a passenger for the ride. My dream car is a Dodge Viper. Advice that stays with me is “Follow your heart.” Doing so has led me to every great thing in my life. My goal is to partner with my fiancé to grow our food service equipment business, National Equipment Depot, using my eCommerce marketing expertise and eventually becoming involved full time. Additionally, I hope to continue making a lasting impact in Marion County by supporting both our community and the natural resources that surround us.

Roselynn Heinrich

38 / Master Sergeant, Accreditation Manager, Marion County Sherif’s Ofce

What drives me is God and my family. I’m proud of becoming the Accreditation Manager for the Ofce of the Sherif in Marion County and graduating from the Leadership Ocala Metro program. Class 39, best class ever! People are surprised to learn that I was my high school’s mascot. Go Tigers! Advice that’s stayed with me is “More is caught than taught.” My goal is to travel more and create lasting memories with my family. I want to continue embracing new opportunities, enjoying life to the fullest and being present for the moments that matter most.

Timothy Ray

26 / Team Leader, Keller Williams Cornerstone

What drives me is the desire to help my agents build the business and life they want and deserve. Knowing that my growth directly impacts their success motivates me to be a better leader. I’m proud of my achievement becoming the youngest Team Leader in Keller Williams Cornerstone’s nearly 30-year history. It is a privilege to lead such an established market center, and I am grateful for the trust they’ve placed in me. People are surprised to learn that I played college football. The teamwork and discipline I learned on the field directly shaped how I lead today. Advice that stays with me is “You can have results or excuses, but you can’t have both.” My goal is to continue maintaining and growing the best brokerage in Marion County for both our agents and our clients.

Alex Sosa

38 / Co-owner and CEO, The WrapPros at BB Graphics

What drives me is one word: family. Everything I do is to make my wife and children proud and show them what hard work, perseverance, integrity and resilience look like. I’m proud of acquiring and leading The WrapPros at BB Graphics alongside my wife. What makes me most proud is knowing our company helps create jobs, support families and contribute to causes that make a positive impact. People are surprised to learn that I’m a pilot and have flown piston aircraft, turboprops and jets. Advice that stays with me is “Success is rarely accidental.” It is the result of preparation and discipline My goal is to build a company that develops leaders, helps businesses throughout Florida to grow through efective branding and marketing. Personally, I want to continue growing as a husband, father, and leader. Success is not defined by a single achievement but by the positive impact I can make on the people around me and the legacy I leave behind.

Dayne Boudreau

33 / Operations Manager, Canopy 360 Wealth

What drives me is loving God and loving people. That’s genuinely it. I want my wife and kids to see a man who works hard for the right reasons. I’m proud of my family. My beautiful bride Jamie and I have two daughters and a third due this summer. Professionally, I’m proud of my team and of my part in leading operations. People are surprised to learn that I have two engineering degrees, I’m learning guitar and I run long distances. I also recently launched a bookkeeping firm on the side, Live Oak Bookkeeping. I think people expect someone in operations and finance to be purely analytical, but I’ve always been more curious than calculating. Advice that stays with me is “Work with all your heart, for God and not for men.” When your motivation is right, everything else takes care of itself My goal is to become a real resource for entrepreneurs trying to get their footing. I also want my kids to grow up knowing their dad was present and pointing them toward something bigger.

Leighandra Gibbons

34 / Finance Assistant, Tillman & Associates Engineering / Director of Internal Operations, Brick City Beer & Wine Festival

What drives me is curiosity. Following it has opened the door to countless opportunities and brought me places I never imagined. I’m proud of being selected for Ocala Magazine’s 40 Under 40. People are surprised to learn that I’m not particularly a fan of beer or wine, despite overseeing an event centered around both. It’s an acquired taste I’m still trying to acquire. Advice that stays with me is “Showing up imperfectly is better than not showing up at all.” Life rewards courage and consistency, and showing up with an open heart is the first step. My goal is to serve as Ocala’s mayor.

Lauren Debick

Albert Febo Nales

26 / Rooms Executive, The Riding Academy Hotel (WEC Ocala)

What drives me is growth, both for me and for those around me. Every day is an opportunity to create a meaningful experience for someone. I’m proud of the mindset I’ve developed throughout my life. I believe in being 1% better every day, which has helped shape who I am. People are surprised to learn how much time I dedicate to learning outside of work. I’m naturally curious about studying leadership, personal development, business and industry trends. Advice that stays with me is “Never stop learning.” No matter your title, experience or accomplishments, there is always something new to learn. My goal is to continue growing as a leader and staying open to new possibilities. I try not to focus on a specific title or position. Instead, I focus on achieving excellence where I am and allowing opportunities to develop from that foundation. Some of the best opportunities in life are the ones you never planned for.

Dakota Gardner

31 / Music Director, Meadowbrook Church

What drives me being a part of someone’s “aha” moment. In ministry, I get to see them realize they are loved, not alone and not without help. I’m proud of three things: falling in love with Jesus, marrying the love of my life and having the privilege to pursue ministry as a career. People are surprised to learn that through dual-enrollment program, I received my associate degree before my high school diploma. Advice that stays with me is “Instead of telling people what’s wrong, live in a way that shows them what’s right.” My goal is to leave a legacy of kindness, and show others that God loves them.

38 / Brand Strategist, Author, Life Coach, Creative Springs / Life Coaching with Lauren

What drives me is helping people feel connected, empowered and supported. I’m proud of my book, The Mermaid Mama. Publishing it allowed me to combine my professional experience and personal journey to encourage working mothers navigating life’s many responsibilities. People are surprised to learn about some of the many hats I’ve worn over the years, including Zumba instructor and lip-sync enthusiast. Advice that stays with me is one of my favorite quotes from Gandalf in The Lord of the Rings: “All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us.” My goal is to show my children that it’s possible to pursue your dreams while staying true to your values.

Michael

Fronius III

24 / Registered Nurse, Neuro ICU, HCA Florida Ocala Hospital

What drives me is knowing that my knowledge, compassion and presence can make a diference during some of the most difcult moments in a person’s life. I’m proud of earning my place as a Neuro ICU nurse and the trust that comes with it. Nursing school challenged me, and transitioning into a specialized critical care environment taught me resilience, adaptability and the value of teamwork. People are surprised to learn that I can juggle. It’s a fun skill that always brings a little energy and humor to the moment. Advice that stays with me comes from my father: “Keep going up.” No matter the obstacles or setbacks, consistent efort and a commitment to growth can make you a little better each day. My goal is to continue advancing in critical care nursing, pursue leadership opportunities and mentor future nurses entering the profession. I also want to inspire others to pursue a career serving others.

Caleb Harrison Tafer

32 / Architectural Designer, Roberts Design Group

What drives me is figuring out the details. It’s not just seeing the pieces of a puzzle, but understanding how each piece creates the bigger picture. I’m proud of having at least one design in every park and nearly every hotel at Walt Disney World. I’d love to unveil some upcoming projects for the World Equestrian Center, but marketing would probably prefer I honor my NDA. People are surprised to learn that I’ve lived in 12 diferent states. That’s a fact people usually want to know more about. Advice that stays with me is something dad always said: “It’s fine to say you don’t know, but don’t be happy with that answer.” My goal in the short term is to see The Shoppes Of 80th have a successful rollout. Looking ahead, I want to earn my architectural license so I can stamp future projects coming to Ocala.

Chelsea Allen

36 / Heavy Equipment Service Administrator, Ring Power

What drives me is my competitive spirit. I’m always striving to be the best at whatever I’m doing. I’m proud of surviving cancer while leading the JLO as president. In April 2025, I was diagnosed with Stage 2 breast cancer. I underwent a double mastectomy, 30 radiation treatments, four rounds of chemotherapy and DIEP flap reconstruction, all while working full time and leading an incredible group of women in our community. The support of our league and the impact we were making in the community became my driving force. People are surprised to learn that I recently launched a small business, Gulf Strand Co., selling handmade chunky beaded necklaces inspired by coastal living, salty air and sunny days. Advice that stays with me is “The grass is only greener where you water it.” My goal is to continue growing in my career at Ring Power and travel more with my family.

Sam Shipwash

37 / Event Planner & Coordinator, The Grateful Table Events

What drives me first and foremost, is my faith in God. I want to be a light wherever I go, serving others and reflecting God’s love along the way. My family is also a huge part of what drives me. I’m proud of my daughters. Being their mother is one of the greatest blessings of my life. Professionally, I’m incredibly proud of the relationships I’ve built over the years, walking alongside people during some of life’s biggest moments, and the lasting friendships that often come from those experiences. People are surprised to learn that I was born and raised in Ocala, and that I homeschool my daughters. Advice that’s stayed with me is Colossians 3:23: “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” As someone who wears a lot of hats, this reminds me to be faithful with what’s in front of me My goal is to raise my daughters into strong, kind, God-loving women who know who they are and aren’t afraid to live out their faith. I also hope to continue building meaningful relationships through my work and creating experiences that bring people together.

Kasee Glover

36 / Investor Reporting Analyst, Valon Mortgage

What drives me is my family. Every decision I make centers on creating a better future for them, helping them succeed and providing them with the support they need to thrive. I’m proud of my time participating in a World Changers mission trip, which remains one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. People are surprised to learn that I’m a Mimi. On paper, the math doesn’t add up, but our family was built through love, not blood, and I am incredibly proud of the bond we’ve created. Advice that stays with me is simple: “Adapt.” When obstacles appear, I try to focus on solutions rather than the problem My goal is to continue growing both personally and professionally. As long as I do that, I know I’m moving in the right direction. I also hope to share what I learn along the way and help others grow as well.

“I’m proud of having at least one design in every park and nearly every hotel at Walt Disney World.”

— Caleb Harrison Tafer

Mandy McSherry 36 / Donor Relations Specialist, SMA Healthcare Foundation

What drives me is meeting people and building relationships. One of my favorite parts of my job is getting out into the community, learning what other organizations are doing and fi nding ways we can support each other. I ’m proud of being part of Leadership Ocala Metro. It challenged me, helped me grow professionally and gave me a much better understanding of all the people and organizations working to make our community better. P eople are surprised to learn that I’m an introvert. People see me at so many events, and I love meeting people, but I also need plenty of time to recharge. After a busy week, I’m usually spending a quiet weekend at home. A dvice that stays with me is “Just show up.” So many opportunities happened because I decided to say yes M y goal is to continue learning and building relationships, and I’m excited to see where those experiences take me.

David Boston, Ph.D., AICP

38 / Owner, Amarach Planning Services

What drives me is the belief that having a home shouldn’t be a luxury. I named my company Amarach, which is Irish for “tomorrow,” because I want to build a better tomorrow for my daughter. I ’m proud of the career I’ve built that allows me to help communities across the country as well as local initiatives. P eople are surprised to learn that I was homeless for about a month in college. I stayed in a shed behind a coworker’s parents’ home. A dvice that stays with me is from my grandmother, who taught me to “put myself in other people’s shoes.” M y goal is to create more opportunities for homeownership by helping shape housing policy. I also want to continue building a happy life with my wife, Caitlin.

Robert Burr Jr.

37 / Civil Draftsman, Rogers Engineering / Singer, Songwriter & Founder, Propaganjah What drives me is the desire to provoke independent thought and refl ect on inner struggles. I ’m proud of the super positive and upbeat energy I’ve kept in my band through the years. P eople are surprised to learn about my career. I draw everything from site plans to land surveys, and have been in the fi eld since I was about 15. A dvice that stays with me is “Never let negativity interfere with your vision, and never feel sorry for yourself.” M y goal is to show people that they can do anything with the right people around them.

Mikayla Frierson

27 / Founder & Director, Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator, Rescuing Ocala Wildlife (ROW) What drives me is a love for Florida wildlife and a passion for conservation. I ’m proud of our wildlife hospital. More than 1,000 animals have come through our doors since we opened. P eople are surprised to learn that I don’t have a degree related to wildlife rehabilitation. When I moved to Ocala, I had no intention of starting a nonprofi t. A dvice that stays with me came early in my career: “Take care of yourself so you can care for others.” I want to foster that mindset for others working in this emotionally demanding fi eld M y goal is to expand our educational side and teach the community more about local wildlife.

Roland LaCroix

39 / Chef de Cuisine, The Polo Pony (WEC Ocala) What drives me is learning, exchanging ideas with fellow culinarians and helping shape the hospitality industry. I ’m proud of my role in developing The Polo Pony. Bringing that vision to life alongside such an incredible team has been truly rewarding. P eople are surprised to learn I’m in the Little League Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, New York. My team won the Dreams Park National Championship when I was 12. A dvice that stays with me is “align with excellence.” Surrounding yourself with people who are the best at what they do helps you grow M y goal is to help The Polo Pony earn a Michelin star and a James Beard Award nomination. More than anything, I want my work to make a lasting impact and to leave behind a meaningful legacy in this industry.

Sarah

James

36 / Owner & Educator, The Academy / Member, Marion County Public School Board What drives me is my faith and my passion for early childhood education and building transformational leaders. I ’m proud of the relationship I have built with my family. I also have proud highlights in education — I have built two preschools from the ground up, and I purchased the building for my school as the sole business and property owner at age 33. P eople are surprised to learn that while I can come across as very assertive, beneath my hard outer shell is a kind and gentle person. I expect a lot from people, but I will also do everything I can to help them. A dvice that stays with me is “Live like someone is always watching.” Return the shopping cart, pick up the trash, hold the door and be kind M y goal is to continue serving the community I love. I have full faith in God, and my future is in His hands.

Kaitlyn Wilson-Butler

34 / Strategic Communications, HCA Florida Healthcare

What drives me is my personal mission to leave people better than I found them. I’m proud of my motherhood journey and the way I show up for my village. Professionally, I’m proud of my service to local nonprofits and our culture of giving. Together, we are laying the groundwork for a community that values people, wellness, justice and sustainability. People are surprised to learn that I own Brick City Food Tours in downtown Ocala. My family has deep ties to Ocala, and my great-grandmother was a founding member of Ocala Civic Theatre. Advice that stays with me is to “look for the glimmers in life.” The amount of good in your life depends on your ability to notice it. My goal in the future is to own a bookstore, invest in my community through local politics, continue cultivating motherhood, master playing chords on the piano, read constantly and spend time tending my cottage garden.

Emily Andrews

28 / Chief Marketing O cer, Red Fern Pet Lodge

What drives me is a commitment to doing what is right, even when it’s difcult. At the end of the day, I’m less concerned with being successful than I am with being able to look back and know I acted with integrity. I’m proud of building my family’s business. People are surprised to learn I’ve served on the board of Fine Arts For Ocala (FAFO) for seven years and currently serve as board president. Advice that stays with me is Maya Angelou’s“People will forget what you said. People will forget what you did. But people will never forget how you made them feel.”

Kevin Saborio

36 / Complex Director of Housekeeping, WEC Ocala

What drives me every day is being the best husband and father I can be to my wife and three children. My family is my purpose, motivation and greatest blessing. I also believe in doing what you love and loving what you do, which inspires me to give my best every day. I’m proud of my family more than anything else, without a doubt. Professionally, I am proud to be part of the WEC, where I have grown while doing what I truly enjoy. People are surprised to learn that I started my career as a Houseman in the Housekeeping Department. While many see me as a leader today, I still consider myself a student. Advice that stays with me is “Treat others the way you want to be treated.” My goal is to continue growing in the hospitality industry and helping those around me succeed. On a personal level, one of my lifelong dreams is to travel the world with my beloved wife.

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Hunter Bryant

38 / Beverage Manager, WEC Ocala

What drives me is the opportunity to turn ideas into experiences people remember. I love finding new ways to elevate hospitality. I’m proud of my role in launching The Equestrian Manor. Aligning beverage programs across the resort and planning the Ocala Food & Wine Festival has also been incredibly rewarding. People are surprised to learn that I’m a dedicated Magic: The Gathering player and collector. I enjoy the challenge of building decks with strategy and creativity — qualities that have also shaped my approach to business. Advice that stays with me is a simple principle I learned through Scouting as a youth: “Leave it better than you found it.” My goal is to create programs that innovate guest experience and raise the standard for the industry — something that has a lasting impact long after I’m no longer directly involved.

Liz Mitchell

38 / Real Estate Agent, Realtor with JMG / Owner, The Rose Room

What drives me is my legacy. Inky Johnson asks, “If you were to check out tomorrow, how would you want to be remembered?” I want to be remembered as someone who was happy and believed that a better life comes from within. I’m proud of all the relationships I’ve built during my 26 years in Ocala. But while I have many professional success stories, nothing compares to the pride I have in my children, knowing they are compassionate, capable and self-motivated. People are surprised to learn that beneath my polished exterior is someone who loves dirt bikes, obstacle races and adrenaline-filled challenges. Advice that stays with me is “Life is short.” My goal is to build a life that aligns with who I strive to be: strong, healthy, financially secure, surrounded by meaningful relationships and full of adventure. I also hope to continue creating incredible memories with my children and find a lasting partnership built on trust, consistency and mutual commitment.

Kenny McDonald

32 / Realtor & Real Estate Investor, TSellState NGR

What drives me is creating value where others may not see it, whether that’s renovating a home, helping a family achieve homeownership or investing in projects that improve neighborhoods. I’m proud of the business I’ve built, which would not have been possible without the support of my business partner and best friend, Steve Berg. I’m proud that I can provide for my family while making a positive impact in the community.

People are surprised to learn I earned a master’s degree in sports management and played collegiate baseball for four years. After working in athletics, I realized I enjoyed playing and watching sports far more than working in the industry. Advice that stays with me is “You are writing your eulogy every day.” Decide how you want to be remembered and align your daily actions accordingly. Money and success come and go, but honesty, kindness and integrity have lasting value. My goal currently is to become a Floridacertified general contractor. I hope to earn my license by the end of 2026. Beyond that, my goal is to be the best husband, father and friend I can be. I also hope to one day pass my business on to my children.

Hattie Clark

38 / Executive Assistant, WEC Ocala

What drives me is contributing to the equestrian community, which is an important part of my life. I’m proud of the part I played in the Longines League of Nations event and earning the trust of senior leadership in my role. People are surprised to learn I have mad handyman skills. I’m really good at figuring out how to fix just about anything. Advice that stays with me is “Always stay a step ahead, and remember there is always more than one way to solve a problem.” My goal is to continue growing within WEC, as well as further developing as an equestrian, a passion that has played a significant role in shaping the skills I bring to my current career.

Bradley Busch

35 / Commercial Real Estate Broker and Industrial Consultant, Busch Realty and Development

What drives me is the pursuit of adventure and discovery. I enjoy exploring unique properties, uncovering their allure and turning that into results. I’m proud of earning clients’ trust to handle larger projects and committing the time to continue furthering my abilities. People are surprised to learn that every year, I try to grow giant pumpkins, with very, very limited success. I also tinker with cars and 3D printing. Advice that stays with me is “Always ensure the foundation is rock solid before building upward,” in both real estate and personal development My goal is to continuously push my professional boundaries and help facilitate employment opportunities within the community.

CJ Kelly

34 / PGA Teaching Professional, Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club

What drives me is my family first, and my students second. I enjoy helping them learn and improve their golf game through instruction. I’m proud of our two sons, Payne and Stone, and of becoming a PGA Class A Professional in May 2023. People are surprised to learn I enjoy cooking, especially for my sons and wife, Caitlin. Advice that stays with me is from my mother: “Always be kind.”

Eugina Lewis

39 / Esthetician and Lash Specialist, Social Haus Lashes

What drives me is my desire to become a better version of myself. I’m passionate about entrepreneurship, networking and building meaningful connections because they make both business and life better. I’m proud of betting on myself and building a business that reflects my vision, values and creativity. People are surprised to learn I’m a self development enthusiast. I spend just as much time growing my mindset as I do growing my business. Advice that stays with me is “Your life changes when you decide you’re worthy of the things you’re working toward, because nothing changes if nothing changes.” My goal is to create lasting wealth and time freedom. To me, success isn’t just about money. It’s about having the freedom to truly enjoy life.

Noah Robert Herreid

28 / Founder & Consultant, Roman Strategies / Ofcial Partner & Host, XAmerica News

What drives me is the understanding that we only get one hourglass in this life. Time is our most valuable asset, and I believe in making the most of it while I’m here. I’m proud of first, becoming an ofcial partner of a nationally syndicated news network by the age of 27; and second, helping elect one of the youngest public ofcials in Iowa. People are surprised to learn I was a published poet by the age of 18. Even earlier, at 16, I earned my First-Degree Black Belt in martial arts. These early experiences taught me discipline, creativity and perseverance that continue to shape me. Advice that stays with me came from my father: “Never give up.” No matter the obstacles, persistence is always the key to moving forward My goal is to become one of the premier political consulting firms in the country while helping good people get elected and make a positive diference in their communities. I also want to expand my work in media, reaching larger audiences with thoughtful conversations about solutions to the issues facing everyday Americans.

“I’m passionate about entrepreneurship, networking and building meaningful connections because they make both business and life better.“

— Eugina Lewis

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These local couples celebrated one of life’s most memorable milestones. We are honored to share a glimpse into their special days.

Jacob Kristy

March 7, 2026

Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian

Parents of the Groom: Rick & Karen Couch

Parents of the Bride: Justo Nolasco

How did you meet? We were childhood friends, and as we grew older, our friendship blossomed into something more.

Where did you get engaged? On Nov. 23, 2024, we went paddleboarding on the Silver Springs River. Jacob proposed while we were out on the water enjoying the beautiful scenery and nature around us.

Where did you honeymoon? Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, at Excellence Resorts.

What special touches made your day unique? We loved having our friends and family play such meaningful roles in our ceremony. From our talented friends who provided music during the ceremony to our ofciant, who is a dear friend, and everyone who stood beside us on our wedding day, each person made the celebration feel incredibly personal and special. We are so grateful to have been surrounded by the people we love most as we began this new chapter together.

What was your favorite moment? One of our favorite moments was seeing each other for the frst time at the altar. It felt like it was just the two of us, and we could both feel each other’s excitement in that moment.

Club

Wedding Planner

Georgina Rarick, Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club

Catering

Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club

Decor

Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club

Photographer

Paige Mercer

Photography

Rentals

Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club

Florals

Brick City Flowers

Music

Jonathan Davis, DJ Genius

Beauty

Ali Truluck, The Truluck Studio

Suits

Men’s Wearhouse

Rings

Gabriel & Co. (Bride); Verragio (Groom)

Natassja Atal

March 13, 2026

Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club

Parents of the Groom: Bipinkumar Patel & Anandi Patel

Parents of the Bride: Alfredo & Odette Ronso

How did you meet? We attended Trinity Catholic High School together and met during our sophomore year. We remained friends and did not begin dating until our freshman year of college. When did you get engaged? November 2024.

Where did you honeymoon? In May 2026, we traveled to London, Paris, Ireland and Scotland.

What special touches made your day unique? We had a fusion wedding that incorporated both Christian and Hindu traditions, allowing us to celebrate and honor both of our cultures.

What was your favorite moment?

Bride: We had an entire week of festivities celebrating both cultures, including a bridal shower, Mehendi, Haldi and Grah Shanti ceremonies. Bringing both traditions together with our closest family and friends was truly unforgettable.

Groom: My favorite moment was our frst dance. We danced to “Perfect Duet,” the song we chose when we frst started dating nine years ago and promised would be played at our wedding.

Wedding Planner

Georgina Rarick, Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club

Catering

Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club

Photographer Kayla Wade

Photography

Videographer

Nima Film Studio

Rentals

Wind Chase Farm; National Sports Broadcasting

Ofciant

Father Pat and Pandit Vyas

Florals

Brick City Flowers

Music

DJ Nick Beauty

M3 Beauty; Studio Chic

Suits

Dillard’s

Rings

Custom-made in India

Julianne Derek

March 21, 2026

Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club

Parents of the Groom: Michael & Deanna Machula

Parents of the Bride: Joseph & Michelle Souza

Bride’s Hometown: Hooksett, New Hampshire

Groom’s Hometown: League City, Texas

How did you meet? On a dating app.

Where did you get engaged? While scalloping in Crystal River.

Where did you honeymoon? We traveled throughout Italy and Switzerland.

What special touches made your day unique? We displayed a “To All the Love Stories Tat Came Before Us” board featuring framed wedding photos of married couples from both families. Our wedding programs were designed to look like newspapers, and each engaged couple received a Ring Pop at their place setting with a tag that read, “You’re next! We can’t wait to celebrate with you.” Our golden retriever even had his own signature drink, the Paw-garita. We also incorporated custom golf balls and shot glasses into our seating chart design.

Were there any unusual happenings? We surprised our guests with a unique ring bearer reveal. At the start of the day, one seat was designated with a green bow, and during the ceremony, it was announced that the guest seated there would serve as the ring bearer. We also ended the evening with a sparkler exit and a helicopter departure, which came as a surprise to all of our guests.

What was your favorite moment? Seeing all of our family and friends from across the country together in one place was incredibly special. We also loved being able to attend cocktail hour and spend time with our guests before dinner. Another favorite moment was sharing a private last dance together while everyone prepared for our helicopter exit.

Wedding Planner

Georgina Rarick, Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club

Catering

Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club

Photographer

Paige Mercer

Photography

Videographer

The Garrs

Rentals

SE Rentals (dance floor)

Ofciant

Terry Lewis (family friend)

Florals

Bride & Mother of the Bride

Music

Win Show Events

Beauty

Pretty N Pinned

Suits

Custom-made in Vietnam

Rings

Tacori from Beards Diamonds

Tyler Hope

March 28, 2026

A family farm

How did you meet? We frst met in sixth grade at Osceola Middle School in computer class. We reconnected in eighth grade, which is when we ofcially became a couple.

Where did you get engaged? On a private island in the Florida Keys.

Where did you honeymoon? Cancun, Mexico.

What special touches made your day unique? Having our two goldendoodles, Bailey and Murphy, be part of our day from beginning to end made it especially meaningful. It was also incredible to see the fnal result after two years of preparing the farm for the event. We both enjoy nature so much, and it was extremely special to hold our ceremony in such an organic setting of our choosing.

Were there any unusual happenings? Out of nowhere, a windstorm arrived with 30 mph wind gusts.

What was your favorite moment?

Reading our vows beneath our favorite oak tree during our frst touch.

Wedding Planner

The Grateful Table Events

Catering

Pasta Faire

Photographer Eighteenth Hour

Photography

Rentals

Making It

Matthews, Modican; 904

Party Rental

Florals

Roots N Flora

Music

DJ Tim Assam

Beauty

Pretty N Pinned

Rings

Luxury Diamond Co., Summerfield

Andrew Christine

April 18, 2026

Appleton Museum of Art

Parents of the Groom: Steve & Jeannie Dunn

Parents of the Bride: Dan & Carol Brady

How did you meet? We were set up by friends and met on a blind date for a walk at Baker Park in Naples.

Where did you get engaged? Andrew brought me back to Baker Park, where we frst met, and proposed by the water.

Where did you honeymoon? We plan to honeymoon in Japan this fall.

What special touches made your day unique? Having our 14-year-old dachshund, Daisy, there for our big day made it especially meaningful.

Were there any unusual happenings? None, thankfully.

What was your favorite moment? At the end of the evening, as our guests prepared for our grand exit, we shared a private dance and took a moment to soak it all in.

Planning & Decor

The Grateful Table Events

Catering

Live Fire Chefs

Photographer Taylor Shea

Photography

Videographer

Eddie Dixon

Rentals

Making It

Matthews; Nothing But the Booth

Florals

Roots N Flora

Cake

A Blonde & A Bakery

Music

Noemy, Anthology (violinist) ; Tony V

Productions

Beauty

Pretty N Pinned

Brayden Kinley

October 18, 2025

Lakeside Inn, Mount Dora

Parents of the Groom: Michael Gleason & Amanda Tuck

Parents of the Bride: Chris & Lisa Varner

How did you meet? We were high school sweethearts and met through AFJROTC at Forest High School.

Where did you get engaged? Brayden proposed at the chapel at World Equestrian Center on Dec. 28, 2024.

What special touches made your day unique? Te weather was perfect, creating a beautiful setting for the celebration. A stunning sunset provided the backdrop for the evening, and at the end of the night, the couple departed in a small family boat they had often used while dating.

Photographer Samantha Rae

Photography

Florals

Ashley Murphy

Designs

Rings

Custom emeraldcut bezelset diamond engagement ring with matching David Yurman wedding bands

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Silver Springs– 250 Years of America 10,000 Years of History.

BY HANNAH DURHAM

Currents Currents

OF TIME

Currents Currents

Before Ocala was Ocala, before Florida was a state, and before the Declaration of Independence was signed, people were gathering at Silver Springs. Since the beginning, people have been coming to this river. We know because of what they left behind. Tis summer, as the country marks 250 years, Ocala has a longer story to tell.

Marion County’s history didn’t begin in 1776. It didn’t begin with statehood, or with the founding of Ocala, or even

with the arrival of European explorers. It began at the water, with people whose names we mostly don’t know.

The First People Stand at Silver Springs on a still morning and listen. You can hear the dragonfies. A fsh breaking the surface. Te water still and clear in the morning light. Te people who frst found this place felt the same thing.

Tey made camp, hunted the surrounding forests, and breathed the same crisp

cypress air that hangs over the river today. Tey left behind stone points and scrapers — in 1895, a dig turned up pottery, axes, and arrowheads from a settlement that once inhabited this ground.

Generations of people moved through this land. Around 1,000 years ago, one group made it their own.

Te Timucua settled along the Silver River and considered the springs a sacred shrine — a place connected to their water god. Te name of their province, Ocali, meaning “Big Hammock” or “abundant

place,” would eventually become the name of the city built on the same ground. Ocala. Te city carries their name.

When Hernando de Soto’s expedition moved through in 1539, the Timucua numbered an estimated 200,000 people across northern and central Florida. Within only 150 years, that number would fall to fewer than 1,000. Diseases came frst — smallpox and measles moved quickly through the population. Ten came the raids from the English colonies to the north, and with them more warfare and forced displacement. Not through any single defeat — through disease, raids, and time. By the mid1700s, the Timucua were gone, yet the springs kept fowing.

The Seminole

Te Seminole were originally Creek — part of a confederacy of nations in Georgia and Alabama who, over the late 1700s, began migrating south into the open lands of Florida. Tey came for the same reasons everyone before them had: the water, the game, the land. Te name Seminole is thought to derive from the Spanish cimarrón — a word meaning “runaway” or “wild one.” Tey wore it as a title.

Tey built their villages throughout what is now Marion County. Te Silver River was their life source. Tey fshed its waters, drank from its springs, and built their daily rhythms around it. Teir villages sat close to the water. Tey knew which bends in the river held fsh, which hammocks held game. Children grew up on the same banks their grandparents had fshed. Tis was not temporary. Tis was home.

On October 23, 1834, a Seminole delegation gathered near Silver Springs at the request of U.S. government ofcials who wanted to discuss one thing: removal. Under the Indian Removal Act of 1830, the federal government had decided the Seminole needed to leave Florida — leave the water, leave the hammocks, leave everything — and relocate west to Indian Territory.

To the Seminole, the government wasn’t just asking them to leave the river. Tey were being asked to leave home. Peace. Something sacred.

A young warrior named Osceola stood before the council. He was not there to negotiate — the Seminole were not leaving. Ten, according to some accounts of the day, he drew his knife and drove it through the removal treaty lying on the table. “ Tis is the only treaty I will ever make with the whites,” he reportedly said. Tat act ignited what would become the longest and most costly Indian war in American history. On December 28, 1835, Osceola’s warriors assassinated U.S. Indian Agent Wiley Tompson at Fort King. Tat same day, roughly 180 Seminole warriors ambushed a column of U.S. soldiers marching through the woods to the south. More than 100 soldiers were killed. Te Second Seminole War had begun.

It lasted seven years and cost the United States an estimated $30 to $40 million — more than any previous confict fought on American soil. Roughly 1,500 American soldiers lost their lives. Te number of Seminole casualties was never ofcially counted. By 1842, most of the Seminole population had been loaded onto ships and forced from the river — west to Oklahoma. Florida’s chapter of the Trail of Tears. A few hundred Seminole refused to surrender. Tey disappeared into the Everglades. Teir descendants became the Seminole Tribe of Florida, who are still here today. Tey are one of the only tribes in American history that never signed a peace treaty with the United States. Tey simply refused.

August 25th, 2022 | 6-9:30pm

Palm Grove Club at Oak Run

Benefitting Marion County’s Children

Casual Dress | BBQ Dinner | Full Bar Included

Casual Dress | BBQ Dinner | Full Bar Included

Live and Silent Auctions of Hunting and Fishing Gear Plus items for the Ladies, Door Prizes and Ra e items, too!

Live and silent auctions of Hunting and Fishing Gear

Plus items for the ladies, door prizes, and ra e items!

$500 - Table of 8 (save $100) or $75 Per Person www.ocalakiwanis.org for tickets or sponsorships

For More Information Contact Roseann Fricks-Patterson 352-239-1979

$75 per person | $500 for a table of 8 (save $100)

Tickets & sponsorships: ocalakiwanis.org

facebook.com/KiwanisClubOfOcala

More information: Contact Beverly Angelotti – (352)-470-6711 facebook.com/KiwanisClubofOcala Thursday, August 20 | 6:00-9:00 p.m. Palm Grove Club at Oak Run

$50 donation per ticket

DONATION PER TICKET Benefitting Marion County’s Children!

Fort King and the Making of Ocala

In 1827, the U.S. Army established Fort King on high ground in the middle of Seminole territory: a watch post, built to patrol the line between Native lands to the south and American settlers pushing in from the north. It was built on confict. For seven years, the fort was the center of the war. Soldiers arrived and sometimes didn’t come back. Supply wagons rolled in from the coast. Dispatches were written and sent to Washington. Te Seminole knew this land. Tey knew which swamps couldn’t be crossed, which hammocks ofered cover, which trails through the palmetto led nowhere. Te U.S. military did not. At the war’s peak, several hundred men were stationed within the fort’s walls, living on high ground in the middle of the war. Miles to the east, the springs kept running.

After the Seminole Wars ended, Ocala took shape on the same ground — built even from the same materials. Te frst courthouse was made from the timber of the old fort. Settlers arrived, and new streets were cut through the same ground where soldiers had stood watch. Ten, in 1889, came the boom: farmers found phosphate in the ground — ancient rock deposits left behind by a sea that once covered this land. Te railroad followed. New businesses, new people. By 1890, it was the ffth-largest city in Florida, home to nearly 3,000 people.

Trough it all, the springs kept fowing.

Silver Springs Finds Its Audience

By the late 1870s, a man named Hullam Jones had an idea. Tourists were already making their way to Silver Springs by steamboat — the water was famous, the

Anyone who comes here can feel what others have felt at this river for thousands of years. The same stillness the Timucua knew. The same pull the Seminole fought to keep. The same water that stopped Hollywood in its tracks.

clarity almost unbelievable. Jones built a boat with a glass bottom. Trough the glass, the river opened up — fsh moving through the river grass, a turtle resting on the white sand foor, spring vents quietly bubbling up from the limestone. A whole other world on the other side of the glass. By 1878, glass-bottom boat tours were a formal operation, and Silver Springs had quietly become Florida’s frst tourist attraction. Word spread fast. By the 1880s, visitors were arriving from across the country. At a time when there was no scuba gear, no underwater cameras, no way to see beneath the surface of any river, visitors could stand on a boat at Silver Springs and look straight down thirty feet to the white sand foor. People had never seen anything like it.

Hollywood discovered it next. A river people had called home for thousands of years was now a movie set. Te riverbanks were lined with flm crews and lighting. Tarzan swam here in the 1930s. Creature from the Black Lagoon haunted these waters in the 1950s. Over the decades, more than 22 movies and television productions have been flmed at Silver Springs.

Te springs that had drawn people here since the beginning were now drawing movie stars.

Marion County in 2026

Today, nearly 422,000 people call Marion County home — and anyone who comes here can feel what others have felt at this river for thousands of years. Te same stillness the Timucua knew. Te same pull the Seminole fought to keep. Te same water that stopped Hollywood in its tracks.

All of it is still here. Fort King is a National Historic Landmark, preserved on the east side of town. Te Seminole Tribe of Florida holds their sovereignty and their story. Silver Springs is a state park, the glass-bottom boats still running, the water clear as ever.

Tis summer, as America marks 250 years, stand at the edge of the springs on a still morning. Te dragonfies are out. A fsh breaks the surface. Te water rises up from the limestone with force — cold and ancient, the same way it always has.

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From backpacks to year-round support, local organizations are helping students succeed

BY SHARON RAYE

Summer is here, and for many children, the focus is on enjoying a break from homework and early mornings. For parents, however, the start of a new school year is never far away. As August approaches, so do the costs of backpacks, school supplies, clothing, and other necessities that help students begin the year ready to learn.

For families already facing fnancial challenges, those expenses can quickly become overwhelming. Tat’s where Ready for Success comes in.

Organized by the Community Foundation for Ocala/Marion County, Ready for Success brings together local nonprofits, businesses, and community members with a shared goal of helping students throughout Marion County begin the school year equipped for success.

According to Community Foundation CEO Lauren Deiorio, the initiative was created to connect community support with organizations already serving children and families throughout the county.

“ Te Community Foundation for Ocala/Marion County exists to enhance the quality of life in our community by connecting people who care with causes that matter,” Deiorio said.

Tis year’s selected nonproft partners include Marion County Public Schools’ Families in Transition program, Marion County Children’s Alliance, Stuf the Bus, and Te Rock Program.

While many people think of school supplies when preparing for the new school year, some students face much larger obstacles.

Marion County Public Schools’ Families in Transition program supports students and families experiencing homelessness or housing instability. Te program serves students who may be living in temporary housing situations, shelters, motels or other unstable environments, ensuring they have access to transportation, educational support and resources needed to remain successful in school.

Trough programs such as Mission: Bus Brigade — Supply Teir Success, Families in Transition also provides school supplies, clothing, shoes, hygiene items and other essential resources to help students arrive prepared.

Te Marion County Children’s Alliance focuses on improving the lives of Marion County children through collaboration, advocacy and community partnerships.

Te organization serves as a voice for children throughout the community while supporting programs focused on youth mentorship, family violence prevention, substance abuse prevention, and resource coordination. By bringing agencies and organizations together around common goals, the alliance helps strengthen the network of support available to local children and families.

Among the Ready for Success partners is Stuf the Bus, a Marion County nonproft that has spent the past 26 years ensuring local students have the supplies they need to succeed in the classroom.

Founded by the Kingdom of the Sun Chapter of the Military Ofcers Association of America, Stuf the Bus has grown from providing a few dozen backpacks to delivering more than 1,200 fully loaded backpacks to Marion County students in 2025 alone.

Trough its Community Giveback Program, a precursor to Ready for Success, Stuf the Bus distributed approximately 5,000 sets of school supplies in each of the last two years.

According to Colonel R. Craig Ham, PhD, U.S. Army (Ret.), president and CEO of Stuf the Bus, the organization works closely with school counselors to ensure supplies reach students facing the greatest need.

“Regrettably, we veterans rarely get to see the faces light up when a homeless child can go to the classroom fully equipped to participate in classroom activities,” Ham said.

Ham spends countless hours raising the funds needed to keep the program running.

Stuf the Bus operates entirely through volunteers, with no paid employees, allowing every dollar raised to go directly toward serving students.

In addition to coordinating the program, Ham personally helps raise funds throughout the year by collecting donated furniture and household goods remaining

after estate sales and transporting them to local consignment stores.

“Last year I drove 4,000 miles in support of the program,” Ham said.

Many of those miles were spent making regular trips to Te Villages to pick up donated items and deliver them to local consignment partners, generating the funding needed to sustain the organization’s work. According to Ham, it takes approximately $70,000 annually to maintain the level of service Stuf the Bus provides to Marion County students.

While organizations like Stuf the Bus focus on helping students start the school year prepared, other nonprofts work to ensure support continues long after the frst day of class.

“Needs don’t stop once the school year starts,” said Troy Weaver, executive director of Te Rock Program

While many back-to-school initiatives focus on the beginning of the school year, Te Rock Program addresses challenges that continue long after August.

Troy emphasized that student needs do not disappear once school begins. Trough resource rooms located within local schools, students can access clothing,

hygiene products, school supplies, food assistance, transportation support and other necessities throughout the year.

During a recent visit, one thing that stood out was the thoughtful way Te Rock Program approaches the needs of students and families. Staf members don’t simply collect food and supplies; they consider the practical challenges many families face every day.

Inventory Coordinator Aaron Becerril pointed out that when stocking food items, the program often looks for products with easy-open packaging, such as pop-top cans. While it may seem like a small detail, it refects an understanding that some families may not have access to basic kitchen tools like a can opener. It’s a simple example of how the program works to remove barriers that many people might never think about.

Te same level of care is evident throughout the program’s resource rooms, which are thoughtfully organized and designed to create a welcoming environment where students can access support without feeling embarrassed or singled out.

Maintaining confdentiality is an important part of the program’s mission.

Students should feel safe seeking help without fear of embarrassment or judgment. Te goal is not to simply provide necessities, but to do so in a way that preserves a student’s dignity.

Ready for Success demonstrates what can happen when organizations with different strengths come together around a common goal. While each nonproft serves students in a unique way, together they create a network of support that helps children enter the classroom with the resources they need to succeed.

Whether a student needs school supplies, stable housing support, mentorship opportunities, transportation assistance, clothing, hygiene products, or simply a safe place to turn, these organizations are working together to help students and families fnd the support they need.

Partners

Marion County Public Schools Families in Transition

Marion County Children’s Alliance

Stu the Bus The Rock Program

Learn more, donate or volunteer at: Community Foundation for Ocala/ Marion County

society Fort King Member Appreciation Dinner

RONALD W. WETHERINGTON

As a member of the Board of Directors for the Fort King Heritage Foundation, I was so pleased to see the good turnout for the recent membership dinner. Te dinner was funded by an angel donor, and no member donations were used for this event. Dinner was catered by Let’s Eat Fresh and was delicious. After the mix-and-mingle, opening remarks were given by Ron Mosby. Entertainment included cigar-box dulcimer guitar music by William Baker-Palenik, as well as Shakespearean poetry and comedy by Andy Warrener and Will Taylor. Closing remarks about

what is happening at the fort were given by Bill McCall.

Te mission of the Fort King Heritage Foundation is to preserve, protect and promote the Fort King National Site. Tis is a living history site that educates and informs the public about the important cultural, historic and natural resources found at the park. An emphasis is placed on developing resources for future generations.

The Fort King National Site is located at 3925 E. Fort King St., Ocala, FL 34470.

PICTURED

1. Will Taylor, Andy Warrener

2. Will Baker-Palenik

3. Samatha Jarvis, Trysen Howard

4. Brent Malaver, Bill Tucker, Bill Rodriguez

5. Elizabeth Wray, Clif Saunders, Susan Greiner

6. Fracis Malever, Vic and Suzanne Knoblock

7. Brent Malver, Ronald W. Wetherington, Robin Corsiglia

8. Gary, Ron and Trish Mosby

9. Crystal McCall, Tom and Beth Coleman

10. Alan and Gilda Lindey

11. Gloria Seddon and Ron Mosby

12. Robin Corsiglia and Bill McCall

13. George and Barbara Tomyn, Lee and Renee Brown, Clif Saunders

14. Beth Coleman, Terri Tucker, Frances and Brent Malever

Signature Night of Equestrian Charity

STORY AND PHOTOS BY RONALD W. WETHERINGTON

Re cently, Brooke USA

Divertimentos & Dressage returned to Ocala for its second year, delivering a sold-out evening that transformed GoldMark Farm into a living stage where elite dressage, live symphonic music and philanthropy came together in signature Brooke USA style.

Te mission of Brooke USA is to signifcantly improve the health, welfare and productivity of working horses, donkeys and mules—and the people who depend on them for survival worldwide. Brooke USA strives to alleviate the sufering and vulnerability of developing communities by funding and implementing programs that improve the quality of life and health of working equines. Te organization envisions healthy, thriving communities where people and equines work in partnership to support sustainable local economies.

Te evening featured a one-night-only performance pairing Grand Prix dressage freestyle with live orchestral accompaniment by the Ocala Symphony Orchestra. Te experience celebrated artistry and athleticism while advancing Brooke USA’s global mission to improve the welfare of working horses, donkeys and mules.

PICTURED

1. Sharon Crute, Tris Kilgore, Jaye Bailey

2. Kent, Trinidy, Sawyer, and Michelle Bowers

3. Joel Ortiz, Lucy Oliver, Christina Russell, Wesley Cauldwell

4. Laurie Zink, Kim Shipp

5. Debra and Jamie Zitl

6. Ryan Mertins, Janelle Mertins-Bulman, Alexander Mertins

7. Joe Flood, Catherine Merrill, Louise Petz, John Ulloa

8. Chris and Chief

Food to Gather Around

STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY HANNAH DURHAM

Ju ly has always felt like the heart of summer to me. It’s the season of backyard gatherings, afternoons by the pool, and fnding ways to stay cool in the Florida heat. If there’s one ingredient that feels synonymous with summer, it’s watermelon.

Tis Watermelon, Feta & Arugula

Salad is one of my favorite summer recipes. Sweet watermelon, peppery arugula, creamy feta, and mint make for a salad that’s colorful and refreshing on a hot Florida afternoon.

Watermelon, Feta & Arugula Salad

Ingredients

• 4 cups arugula

• 5 cups watermelon, cubed

• ½ small red onion, thinly sliced

• 6 ounces feta cheese, cubed and crumbled

• 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped

• Balsamic glaze, for drizzling

• Salt, to taste

• Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Arrange the arugula in a large serving bowl or on a serving platter.

2. Top with the watermelon, red onion and feta cheese.

3. Sprinkle with the fresh mint.

4. Drizzle lightly with balsamic glaze and season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.

5. Serve immediately.

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Mark’s Prime Steakhouse has a goal to create a unique dining experience that will please the palate and soothe the soul. We serve the finest beef, the freshest seafood, premium wines and naturally fresh vegetables. We are pleased to have been serving the finest quality dining experience since 2002!

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“The more you know about the past, the better prepared you are for the future.”

—Theodore Roosevelt

Marion County’s Florida Dales Plays a Role in Conserving the Critically Endangered Dales Pony

STORY BY LOUISA BARTON

After a visit this past week to Florida Dales Farm in Morriston, just outside of Ocala, I was reminded of my great admiration as a child for the Dales Pony. Te Dales Pony is a British breed of pony that originated in the Yorkshire Dales in northern England. Historically, Dales Ponies were packhorses for mining operations. Te breed was used extensively by the British Army in both world wars, and during the Second World War this hardy breed came close to extinction. Since that time, conservation eforts have had some success in rebuilding the population, but the Dales Pony is still an endangered breed. Its qualities include stamina, courage, strength and good disposition, and they are generally very intelligent.

Te Dales Pony is ideally 14 to 14.2 hands (there are four inches to a hand and horses are measured from the withers located at the bottom of the mane to the ground). Te Dales Pony’s head is neat, straight and broad between the eyes. Tey have a fne muzzle and ears that curve in. Tey have a broad rib cage, a shorter back and well-muscled quarters. Te neck of a Dales Pony is a good length, and they are muscular with dense bone and large, round hooves. Te mane and tail are long and beautiful, silky and so are their leg feathers.

Most of the ponies are black, though brown, bay, grey and roan colors are also accepted within the breed. Te only white head markings permitted are a star and/ or a snip. Dales Ponies move with a very

animated, energetic power, lifting their hooves up well above the ground, even as young foals.

Horses have been present and used in the Dales area since early times. Horse remains have been discovered dating back to Roman times or before, and it is thought Dales Ponies existed in pre-Roman times. As mining ponies, the Dales were used as pack ponies carrying up to 240 pounds at times. Te Dales Pony descended from several breeds, with the original working ponies being bred by crossing the Scottish Galloway Pony with the Pennine Pony. Much later, Norfolk Cob bloodlines were introduced, tracing back to the Darley Arabian (a foundation horse of today’s Toroughbreds). Most

ponies today in this breed can be traced back to this infuential horse. Clydesdales, Yorkshire Roadsters and Norfolk Trotters blood was added to improve their trotting ability, and Welsh Cob stallion breeding was added for more size and Fell ponies were also intermingled.

Many Dales Ponies served with the British Army during the First World War. In the early 1920s, 200 of the fnest ponies with the least amount of Draft Horse blood were purchased by the British Army. Requirements were strict for these ponies, weighing a minimum of 1,000 pounds, and they must be able to carry almost 300 pounds in mountainous terrain. During the Second World War, the breed was almost lost, as so many were taken for breeding Vanners (animals which could pull wagons), for work in towns and cities, and for use as artillery horses and packhorses.

Many ponies were left behind in Europe by the military, and most of them were, sadly, slaughtered for food. In 1955, only four fllies were left remaining. Tose involved in post-war eforts to conserve this breed searched for even unregistered Dales Ponies. To save the breed, Fell Ponies were interbred with Dales’ mares and in 1999, the Dales Pony Society of America formed. In 2015, the Dales Pony went from Category 2, endangered, to Category 1, critically endangered and as of 2025, the Dales Pony remains in this category, with only a few thousand or less remaining in the world.

Te Dales Pony is known as the ‘Good All-Rounder,’ as they are known for their abilities to work well in any breed or discipline. Tey have competed successfully in showjumping, carriage driving, dressage, three-day eventing, endurance riding, fox hunting, obstacles and pony-trekking. Tey can carry children and adults alike and have a smooth and comfortable gait in a trot (jog) or canter (lope).

As I departed from my visit to the Florida Dales breeding farm, I felt mixed emotions, some sadness, a little relief and a glimmer of hope for this breed. I had spent some time with local breeder Catherine York, and although she felt her eforts were small, I emphasized how

important they are. We were visited, as we stood in the paddock talking, by a Dales Pony foal born in April and his mother. Tey were both very friendly and personable, and the foal had no fear of us at all. He was playful and animated in all that he did. He was strong, even at only a couple of months of age, and he was very confdent. In another paddock, the stallion, Florida Dales Blue Envoy, aka Maverick, did not even act like a stallion might. He was calm and friendly. Te newer foal, only about two weeks old, was already a beautiful mover. I commented on Catherine’s eforts, and she said again that hers was a small contribution. I reminded her that every foal counts to keep this ‘all-rounder’ going, and I am thankful, having met these wonderful horses, that Catherine and breeders like her continue here in the ‘Horse Capital’ and beyond. With eforts like this, hopefully one day the wonderful Dales Pony can be removed from the critically

endangered list. I, for one, would like to own one myself, and that probably does not surprise you!

A New Pathway to Nursing Advancement

BY RICHARD RIVERA

For David Miinda, a healthcare career began with a simple realization while attending Marion Technical College.

“ Tat’s when I found out I wanted to be a nurse,” Miinda recalled after earning his Certifed Nursing Assistant credential.

“ Tat’s when I found out I wanted to be a nurse,” Miinda recalled after earning his Certifed Nursing Assistant credential.

Driven to advance professionally, he continued his education at Marion Technical College and became a licensed practical nurse (LPN), leading to his current role at a local rehabilitation center. Yet Miinda knew he wanted to take the next step.

“ Tere are not that many opportunities for an LPN, and I knew that I wanted to work in a hospital,” he said.

Believing that becoming a registered nurse (RN) would create greater opportunities, Miinda was excited to learn of a faster, more afordable pathway available at Marion Technical College.

Te school recently became the frst educational institution in North Central Florida—and only the second in Florida—to ofer the Professional Nursing Diploma Program, designed specifcally for LPNs seeking to become RNs.

Students gain hands-on clinical experience through partnerships with HCA Florida Ocala Hospital and HCA Florida West Marion Hospital, along with rotations at long-term care facilities, rehabilitation centers, and ambulatory care sites.

Te program ofers an alternative to the traditional RN pathway. While many aspiring RNs pursue a four-year bachelor’s degree costing $20,000 or more at a public university, Marion Technical College’s diploma program can be completed in about one year for less than $10,000.

“ Tis model represents an innovative workforce-focused option intended to help address Florida’s ongoing nursing shortages while creating greater career mobility opportunities for working nurses,” said Jennifer Stockton, health sciences coordinator for Marion Technical College.

“We are especially grateful for the support and collaboration of HCA Florida Ocala Hospital and HCA Florida West Marion Hospital as clinical partners,” Stockton added. “ Tese partnerships are essential in helping students transition into professional nursing practice through real-world clinical experiences.”

Te curriculum focuses on clinical judgment, patient-centered care, communication, leadership, and preparation for the Next Generation NCLEX-RN examination.

“ Tis initiative refects our commitment to strengthening the healthcare workforce, addressing the growing need for registered nurses, and expanding access to high-quality care,” said Sonna Harding, chief nursing ofcer for HCA Florida Ocala Hospital.

According to a Florida Center for Nursing workforce report, the state will need approximately 5,900 new RNs annually through 2037 to meet demand

driven by population growth, healthcare needs, and retirements.

“We are proud to partner with Marion Technical College to support LPNs as they advance their education and transition into registered nursing roles,”

Harding said. “Programs like this complement HCA Healthcare’s commitment to clinical education, workforce development, and career advancement. By helping nurses continue their education and build on their skills, we are creating pathways for professional growth while ensuring patients beneft from a highly trained and compassionate nursing workforce.”

Stockton noted that students will gain broader clinical exposure beginning this fall through additional experiences at HCA Florida North Florida Hospital in Gainesville.

“Marion Technical College is proud to be among the early institutions helping advance this efort,” Stockton said. “We are excited about the opportunities this program will create for LPNs seeking career advancement and the positive impact it can have on our healthcare workforce and community.”

For Miinda, the program has reinforced the value of his educational journey.

“Before going to Marion Technical College, I did not like school at all,” he said. “But I would choose Marion Technical College again and again because of the afordability, fexibility, and instructors who genuinely want you to succeed.”

Richard Rivera, BSN, RN-BC, is assistant chief nursing ofcer for HCA Florida Ocala Hospital.

Preparedness Begins at Home How OEU’s Updated Guide Helps Ocala Weather the Season

BY RYAN KIRBY

In Ocala, hurricane season is more than a date on the calendar. It is a yearly reminder of how quickly storms can shift from distant forecasts to neighborhood emergencies. Each year from June 1 through Nov. 30, residents brace for weather that can escalate rapidly, disrupting routines and challenging the community. Tis year, Ocala Electric Utility (OEU) is helping households stay ahead with its updated 2026 Storm Preparation Guide, available at ocalaf.gov/stormhub.

Te guide starts with foundational knowledge. It explains storm terminology in clear, accessible language so residents understand the meaning behind tropical storm watches, hurricane warnings and extreme-wind advisories. Knowing the terms helps people act with confdence rather than reacting under stress. “Being prepared for any type of weather event can reduce the fear, anxiety and losses that accompany disasters,” the guide states. OEU’s service area spans 160 square miles and includes more than 58,000 customers, making early preparation essential for both residents and the utility’s team.

Much of that preparation happens before a storm ever forms. OEU encourages residents to secure outdoor items,

trim trees around electric meters so crews have safe access, identify safe rooms and build communication plans. Te guide includes checklists for emergency kits, go bags and pet supplies—simple steps that create stability when conditions shift quickly.

Generator safety is another primary focus. Whether permanent or portable, generators can be valuable during outages but dangerous when used incorrectly. “Only a qualifed professional, such as a licensed electrical contractor, should install a permanent standby generator,” the guide advises. Portable units, it stresses, must always be operated outdoors to prevent carbon monoxide buildup and electrical backfeed into utility lines.

When a storm arrives, OEU urges residents to stay indoors, monitor ofcial updates and evacuate if instructed. Tose in mobile homes, high-rise buildings or food-prone areas are especially encouraged to follow local guidance. Individuals who rely on medical devices should plan ahead to access shelters equipped to meet their needs.

After a storm passes, safety remains the top priority. Downed lines should be avoided entirely, and debris should stay clear of roadways and utility equipment. OEU crews begin restoration only after

winds fall below 30 mph, ensuring safe working conditions. From there, the utility follows a structured process that reroutes power where possible, restores essential services frst and then moves through residential areas. “It is possible for your neighbor to have power while you are still in the dark,” said OEU Director Doug Peebles. “Be assured that OEU is working diligently to restore power to all customers as quickly and safely as possible.”

Partnerships also strengthen the response. OEU works closely with the Florida Municipal Electric Association (FMEA) and the Florida Municipal Power Agency (FMPA) so mutual aid crews can be deployed quickly after major storms. Deputy Director Chad Lynch notes this spirit of support is central to public power. “Lending a helping hand to one another is a core value of what it means to be a public power community,” he said. “Sometimes we are the ones to send out a call for assistance, and sometimes we are the ones answering.”

OEU’s updated guide reinforces that storm readiness is both an individual and a community responsibility. With informed preparation, safe practices and mutual support, Ocala residents and OEU are better positioned to weather whatever the 2026 season brings.

Places and Programs That Tell Our Story

STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK ANDERSON

Wi th our nation’s 250th birthday this month, there is so much history to learn and celebrate, not only on a national level, but also right here at home.

While Marion County was ofcially established in 1844 from parts of Alachua, Mosquito (now Orange) and Hillsborough counties, our unique area of Central Florida has centuries and centuries of documented history waiting to be discovered through local museums, exhibits and more.

Tere are several big activities planned for July 4 here in town, but here are some other ways to explore our local history and connect with the area’s past, present and future.

Fort King National Historic Landmark

One of Marion County’s most signifcant historic sites, Fort King was originally built in 1827 and served as a key military post during the Second Seminole War. Te fort was rebuilt after being burned in 1836 and later earned

designation as a National Historic Landmark in 2004. Today, visitors can explore reconstructed fort features, walking trails and archaeological exhibits that bring Florida’s frontier history to life. Visit FTKing.org for more information about the fort!

Marion County Museum of History and Archaeology

Tere’s no better place than the Marion County Museum of History and Archaeology to learn the county’s story through exhibits featuring Native American artifacts, pioneer life, military history and local cultural heritage. Te volunteer-run museum helps preserve and share the many chapters that have shaped Marion County over the years.

Te museum is open Monday, Tuesday, Tursday, Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and is located on the McPherson Governmental Campus at 307 SE 26th Terrace, Ocala.

Ocala-Marion County Veterans Memorial Park

Opened in 1997 through a partnership between local veterans, Marion County and the City of Ocala, this remarkable park honors those who served our

nation. With thousands of commemorative bricks, memorials, monuments and historical displays, it ofers a moving tribute to generations of American veterans. Learn more about the park at MarionFL.org/VetsPark.

America 250

Finally, if you’re reading this before July 4, there’s a host of activities happening this Independence Day, including a patriotic parade and freworks at four locations around Marion! For more information about everything America 250, visit MarionCelebrates250.org.

While the America 250 celebration culminates on July 4, there are so many opportunities to honor and refect on our local history throughout the year here in Marion County. Get out and enjoy everything our great county has to ofer!

Books and Art Make History Come Alive

BY KAY YACCARINO

America celebrates its 250th birthday this year and it’s the ideal time to teach younger generations about our nation’s history and cultural heritage. Helping children connect with the past helps them understand diferent times, places and traditions. Te American Revolution, President George Washington, the Founding Fathers and the signing of the Declaration of Independence are great places to begin. Bringing these patriots and events alive through narrative and visual mediums helps even the youngest to learn and understand.

Whether your child is an independent reader or learning through pictures, the library has numerous books that can help bring history to life, making it more interactive and engaging. Reading about the experiences of those who revolted against British rule and embraced self-government in the American colonies will help children understand that history is actually a fascinating journey through time as seen through the eyes of those who were there. Young readers also learn through visual storytelling including illustrations, drawings and paintings. By seeing as well as listening and reading, the images create a more complete picture of history. One of the

most famous paintings depicting that era is Emanuel Leutze’s 1851 portrayal of Washington Crossing the Delaware, ferrying his troops across a nearly frozen river in the middle of a harsh winter in 1776. Another famous painting is Declaration of Independence, by John Trumbull, a depiction of the signers of that historic document at Independence Hall. Tese and others are wonderful tools to help you start your family’s journey through America’s early history. Books featuring these scenes and the historical fgures behind them can be found at any of our Marion County Public Library locations. Librarians are ready and waiting to help you begin your journey this summer and throughout the school year. Each of our locations also ofers story times year-round for tiny tots and preschoolers, and book clubs for older children and teens. Please visit Library. MarionFL.org for more information.

Suggested titles to help you start your journey:

A Kid’s Guide to the American Revolution by Kathleen Krull

Recommended for ages 8 to 12

Revolutionary War on Wednesday: Magic Tree House #22 by Mary Pope Osborne

Recommended for ages 6 to 9

I Am George Washington by Brad Meltzer

Recommended for ages 5 to 9

When Washington Crossed the Delaware by Lynne Cheney

Recommended for ages 5 to 9

A Picture Book of John Hancock by David A. Adler and Michael S. Adler

Recommended for ages 4 to 8

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A New Chapter

BY MADISON GLASSMAN

This month is all about July, but things are a little diferent this time. As you might notice, the title has changed.

Since I just graduated middle school and turn 15 this month, I thought it was time to change this column a bit. I’m growing up and getting older, so instead of talking about unique holidays and fun facts each month, I’ll be sharing more about my life, my thoughts and what’s going on from month to month. So let’s begin this new chapter together!

As I mentioned earlier, this month is my 15th birthday, which I’m so excited about. Turning 15 feels like a really big change. Right now, I’m taking the sixhour permit driving course online so I can take my permit test when I’m done. My birthday is July 29, so if I fnish everything early, I can go to the DMV and get my permit photo taken by the end of the month. I still have to complete the vision and hearing tests, but

that’s no big deal. I can’t wait to start learning how to drive!

Every summer, my dad, my brother and I take a two-week trip together. One of the last days of the trip is usually my birthday. Ten my mom joins us wherever we are, and we all celebrate together. We normally go out for dinner, which is always nice because whatever city we’re in usually has really good food.

One thing I appreciate about summer is having more freedom in my schedule. I recently put together a photo collage on my wall of pictures of my friends and family. I made it because I’m leaving the school I’ve been at for nine years, and I want to keep the memories I made there with my friends so I can always look back at how much fun I had.

It’s kind of crazy to think that after nine years at the same school, I’ll be starting high school soon. I’m nervous, excited and ready to see what this next chapter brings.

I’ve also become a regular at Starbucks lately. Honestly, I think I’ve been there almost every day!

I’ve been trying to enjoy every minute of summer before high school starts. Tis means more beach time, tanning time and shopping, which are all things I love.

Something I’ve been enjoying lately is having more time to read for fun. My favorite author right now is Lynn Painter. My favorite books by her are Better Tan the Movies and its sequel, Nothing Like the Movies. I’m currently reading Te Do-Over and loving it so far. If you’re looking for a good summer read, I defnitely recommend checking out her books.

I’ve also had more opportunities to hang out with my friends, which is always great. I’m excited to see where this new version of Maddie’s Take goes, and I hope you’ll follow along with me. See you next month!

Uncovering the Living History at Fort King

STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF JESSICA HELLER, OCALA/MARION COUNTY VISITOR AND CONVENTION BUREAU

St anding tall among the modern-day residential streets of East Ocala is a captivating historical time capsule known as the Fort King National Historic Landmark. Tese towering wooden walls, surrounded by 40 acres of lush landscape, are a proud, familiar landmark for much of the community in Ocala/Marion County. As our nation approaches its milestone 250th anniversary, exploring Fort King’s immersive activities is the perfect way to connect with our deep roots and feel a sense of local history and patriotic pride.

Exploring Fort King

Fort King is open daily from sunrise to sunset, and admission to the park grounds is free. For an in-depth historical experience, plan your visit around the Visitor Center & Archaeological Resource Center’s hours, open Fridays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Inside the center, you will quickly discover that Fort King is a uniquely

houses authentic artifacts unearthed right from the very soil you walk on, telling the complex stories of frontier soldiers and Seminole people. Along with exhibits, the center features a curated library and historical videos showcasing the site’s regional significance. Groups of 10 or more should contact Fort King in advance to arrange guided tours.

Outside, admire the full-scale replica of the 1800s fort that played a key role during the Second Seminole War. From there, wander onto the shaded interpretive trails that lead down to Seep Spring, the fort’s original water source. Nearby is the Heritage Community Garden and Orchard, which showcases the gardening techniques and heirloom crops that frontier families relied on for survival.

Weekend Events

Fort King ofers educational events on weekends, including hands-on workshops in its Historic Homesteading series, where visitors can register to learn

traditional pioneer skills like candle making, broom making and fabric weaving. Families can enjoy the Summer Nights Lecture Series and the yearly Festival at Fort King. In the meantime, be sure to keep an eye out for the local artisan working at the fully operational blacksmith shop.

To learn how this site fts into the broader regional history, watch the dual Fort King and Silver River Museum episode of the Marion Insider’s Guide series, hosted by County Commissioner Craig Curry. Tis episode ofers a visual tour of both historic sites, highlighting their roles in preserving our shared heritage and keeping Marion County’s history alive for future generations.

“The Sky is the daily bread of the eyes.”

—Ralph Waldo Emerson