Ocala Magazine July 2025 digital issue

Plus Local Weddings, The Marion Hotel, Society Selects and more

Just Listed

OAK LANE 25 +/- ACRE EQUESTRIAN PROPERTY

4/2 Pool home with open floor plan. Family room with fireplace & sliding glass doors that lead to a screen-enclosed pool area. Kitchen is equipped with raised countertops that provide area for seating. Corner lot with circular driveway for easy access and ample parking. Community center offers club house, pool, tennis courts, fitness center, sauna, racquetball, shuffleboard, and banquet rooms.

$411,500

CHARMING SE HOME ON 1.87 +/- ACRES

Gated entrance leads to the 3/2 with a split open floor plan. Lanai and heated saltwater pool. Fenced dog yard, generator, and propane tank. Equestrian facilities: 80’ x 200’ covered, lighted arena, 16-stall barn with TheraPlate, multipurpose building with 7 stalls, two apartments (2/1 and 1/1), and space for equipment or parking, 30’ x 48’ equipment building with concrete flooring. $1,948,000

BEST OF BOTH WORLDS

$299,950

3-Bedroom, 2-bath residence is the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. Step inside to discover a spacious eat-in kitchen and dining room that open up to the living room. Enjoy close proximity to the Country Club of Ocala and the scenic Santos Trailhead. The property is zoned A-1. Don’t miss your chance to make this charming home yours!

French Country Estate! Professional sculpted and architecturally designed residence sits on 1,896 +/- private acres on Lake Ledwith. Incredible 7,900+ SF custom designed estate which combines the best of elegance, style, craftsmanship, and offers gorgeous expansive views of the property. 4-Car garage. Perfect for the sporting or hunting enthusiast.

WHITE OAK VILLAGE

Just Listed

LAURELS AT BELLECHASE

Located in the desirable Masters Village, this Grand Estate features views of a Tribute Hole, 6 BR, 5.5 BA, a formal living room with two-story windows and a dobule-sided fireplace shared with the dining room. The kitchen is open to the family room, A pool, summer kitchen, and golf course views. Enjoy riding your golf cart to the clubhouse or the World Equestrian Center.

$3,875,000

HUNT CLUB AT FOX POINT - .55 +/- ACRES

Resort-style custom-built smart home, offers an ultimate outdoor entertaining lifestyle. Four bedrooms, plus an office. Game room with stylish bar, outdoor retreat boasts park-like slide, tub, cascading waterfalls, drop down oversized screen and your very own cabana—equipped with poolside seating, a bar area, a 1,700+ bottle wine cooler. Charming 1/1 guest house and a personal gym. $2,499,000

LAKE FAYE -PREMIER LAKEFRONT LIVING – 14.75 +/- ACRES

Open and airy with a spacious living area, gourmet chef’s kitchen, custom cabinetry, quartz countertops, large center island, and top-of-the-line appliances. Inviting living area, retractable glass sliding doors open up to a versatile space that can be a pool table area, bar, game room, or media room. Just minutes away from the World Equestrian Center.

List with us today!

$1,318,070

Perfect blend of elegance & charm on this stunning lakefront estate: over 500 feet of private, spring-fed shoreline. Fully remodeled main residence. Outdoor amenities include screened pool, cabana, outdoor kitchen, private dock with boat lift and magnificent views. 2/2 Guest home, equipment, and 2-stall open air barn. $1,650,000

GOLDEN OCALA GOLF AND EQUESTRIAN CLUB

Equestrian Estates

DEEDED GREENWAY ACCESS

6.89-ACRE ESTATE OFFERS ACCESS TO GREENWAYS

JUST REDUCED

50+/- ACRES OF ROLLING LAND

Ideal for horse lovers. It includes a main house (2 BR, 2.5 BA), a guest home (2 BR, 3 BA) with bonus room (currently used as an excercise room or could be a 3rd BR), and a five-stall barn with an apartment and large covered lanai. Features include a new roof, granite countertops, heated floors, and a gas fireplace. The property has five paddocks, a gated driveway, a fire pit, and a fountain.

DEEDED GREENWAY ACCESS

$2,279,800

EQUESTRIAN ESTATE ON 10 +/- ACRES

Perfect for Your Dream Home or Farm! This stunning property includes two barns on 50 acres, featuring 7 stalls and an efficiency apartment. Fully fenced and ready for horses or cattle, the secondary barn offers foaling stalls and hay storage. Ideal for equestrian or farming pursuits, it’s just 12 miles from the World Equestrian Center, situated in a peaceful, deed-restricted community. Don’t miss this chance to create your ideal lifestyle! $1,795,000

BRADFORD FARMS EQUESTRIAN COMMUNITY!

$1,952,100

GREENWAY ACCESS — 4-BR, 3.5 BA home, open, splitbedroom design is enhanced by soaring cathedral ceilings complemented by wood-beamed ceilings and stacked stone gas fireplace. Generac whole-house generator and two propane tanks. New 100 X 200 all-weather arena, two open barns.

This 5.32-acre estate features a luxurious open floor plan including a 4 BR, 3 BA home. Stunning views of the screened pool, and property. Additional highlights are a heated saltwater pool, a 3-bay A/C garage, a 12’ x 20’ outbuilding, fenced areas for pets, and a whole-house generator. Conveniently located near the Florida Greenway trail system. $1,339,000

RARE GEM LAKESIDE EQUESTRIAN RETREAT!

CHARMING HOME ON 18+/- ACRES

This 40+/- acre property has 990 +/- feet of lake frontage and offers a blend of lakeside living. 2-BR, 2.5-BA home has an open-concept layout. Enjoy the wrap-around screened porch, 200-foot dock for boating and fishing. Experience both horseback riding and lake relaxation in this extraordinary retreat— your dream lifestyle awaits!

$6,000,000

GOLDEN OCALA LOCATED NEXT TO WEC

Lakefront Villa in Eagles Landing. Open floor plan includes a gourmet kitchen, island, high-end appliances, family room with fireplace, and main floor owner’s suite. Upstairs are two guest rooms with family area. $1,650,000

If you’re considering buying or selling, give us a call today!

$1,792,500

Possibilities include family estate, land division or developmental land, your choice. Explore this beautiful property sporting a 5 BR and 4 BA. Enjoy your private pool and detached garage with water, electric, and RV parking. Country atmosphere, yet you’re just minutes from town, with easy access to all amenities.

Highly desirable area in Marion County Horse Country. Surrounded by beautiful horse farms. Paved road. A-1 zoning, No HOA, and no flood zone. Ready to build the farm or home of your dreams. $1,299,000 12 +/- ACRES IN NW OCALA – CLOSE TO WEC JUST REDUCED

LIVING EXCELLENCE

BRAND NEW CONSTRUCTION COMING SOON TO CALA HILLS

UPSCALE, EASY LIVING IN THE HEART OF THE CITY OF OCALA. 104 LAKESIDE TOWNHOMES IN A GATED SUBDIVISION. WALKING DISTANCE — ON A SIDEWALK — TO SHOPPING, MOVIES, PADDOCK MALL, RESTAURANTS AND MORE.

TAKING LOT AND FLOOR PLAN RESERVATIONS. RESERVE YOUR SITE TODAY!

THE ENCLAVE

A GATED SUBDIVISION AT CALA HILLS

CELEBRATING OUR 45TH YEAR

ON THE COVER:

Introducing our 2025 40 under 40! Featured here: Charles Heller,

JULY • 2025

’s 40 Under 40

It’s wedding season!

The Hotel Marion: What’s Old is New Again

DEPARTMENTS

Letter from the Publisher

Words of Wisdom

From the Mayor

Dave Schlenker: Media Memories

ommunity events listing

Society: Go Red

Society: HOPS Spring Tour

Society: Transitions Learning Center

Society: Public Education Foundation

Society: Couch Sessions

Society: Lakeside Vocational Center

Society: Couch Sessions

verything Equine: Reading with Horses

68 Charity Spotlight

70 Health Journal: Gluten-free is thriving

72 State of the City: Summer in the City

74 State of the County: Together we fight

76 Kids Corner: Birthdays, chocolate and sharks

Local Weddings, The Marion Hotel, Society Selects and more

Jesse Warren Gillis, Charlita Rae Whitehead, and Kiah Manning

Shot on location at IHMC Ocala

Photo by Johsua Jacobs 20

Photo by Joshua Jacobs pg

Philip Glassman, CCIM | Publisher philip@ocalamagazine.com

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

EDITORIAL

Brad Rogers | Editor brad@ocalamagazine.com

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

Sharon Raye | Copy Editor

Louisa Barton | Equine Editor

ART

Little Black Mask Media Jessi Miller | Creative Director jessi@ocalamagazine.com

Joshua Jacobs Senior Designer + Lead Photographer joshua@ocalamagazine.com

Website | StevensLabs

Digital Media + Production Services OM Staff

CONTRIBUTORS

Mark Anderson/Marion County | Writer

Gregory Davis/City of Ocala | Writer

Madison Glassman | Writer

Mayor Ben Marciano | Columnist

Dave Schlenker | Columnist

Zoee Zarillo | Social Photographer

OPERATIONS

Randy Woodruff, CPA | CFO randy@ocalamagazine.com

OFFICIAL MEDIA PARTNER HOPS — Historic Ocala Preservation Society

MEDIA PARTNER of Live Oak International

OFFICIAL MEDIA SPONSOR FOR International Women's Day Celebration

EXCLUSIVE MEDIA SPONSOR FOR George Albright Annual Golf Tournament

OFFICIAL MEDIA SPONSOR FOR Go Red For Women / American Heart Association

CONTRIBUTORS

Philip Glassman, CCIM

Publisher

Philip has been at the helm of OM for 6 years with over 20 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 SAG-AFTRA actor, a creative thinker and father to two beautiful children.

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.

Ben Marciano Mayor's Column

Born in New York and raised in Ocala, Ben is the mayor of Ocala. Formerly the executive director of the DeLuca YMCA, he is now the owner of Zone Health and Fitness along with his wife, Danielle. He earned an associate degree in criminal justice from the College of Central Florida and maintains his commitment to the law as mayor. He and Danielle have three children and are members of Blessed Trinity Catholic Church.

Ronald

Penny Miller VP/Corporate Development

Penny is with OM over 20 years and owner of an insurance company over 30. She has authored 5 books, owns a media company, founded/directed the Marion County Homeless Coalition, and an appointed Senate-confirmed Commissioner by 4 Governors. Penny served on the Advisory Board of the Barbara Bush Literacy Foundation and President of College Park Kiwanis Club. Her best blessings are her 4 children and 5 grandchildren.

Gregory Davis State of the City Columnist

Davis is the Public Information Officer for the City of Ocala. A proud double Gator, he holds a bachelor’s in public relations and a master’s in mass communication. Davis also teaches communication courses as an adjunct professor at the UF. He also serves as the Ocala Chapter President of the Florida Public Relations Association.

Sharon Raye Copy Editor

Sharon is a native South Floridian who has called Ocala home for over a decade. She studied at The Acting School of South Florida conservatory. She was an active actress and model in FL, NY and abroad for 20 years. Her love for the arts dates back to childhood especially in writing and attention to detail. She is curious by nature, loves traveling, good food, learning about cultures and is an advocate for natural health. Sharon has a daughter who is her greatest joy and primary focus.

W. Wetherington

Social Editor

Madison Glassman Kids Corner Columnist

Madison is a seventh grade 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 for Kids Corner.

Marisa Redmond Writer

Born and raised in Ocala, Marisa found a special love for the city which inspired her to write for it. Her hobbies include painting, music, and anything of the arts. She plans to bring a fresh approach to the magazine.

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, as a photojournalist Ron has devoted his writing and dedicated his photography to charity events.

Jessi Miller

Creative Director

Jessi's career is as old as Photoshop but she doesn't limit her art to the computer. Fine artist and award-winning creative director, she is saving the world, one graphic design at a time at Little Black Mask Media. She is passionate about storytelling, community involvement, peacebuilding, family, and the arts.

Joshua Jacobs Lead Photographer

| Senior Designer

Joshua Jacobs is a musician, photographer, and graphic designer from Ocala, FL. He brings a blue-collar, hard working approach to everything he sets his hands to. When not in the office, he can be found on stages across Florida with his band Feverdreams.

Brad Rogers Editor

For more than a generation Brad has written about the people, places and issues that shape Ocala, first as a newspaper columnist and editor and now as a freelance writer. He is married and the father of two grown children and grandfather of one. In this month’s issue, he interviews Monica Bryant, OM’s Person of the Year.

Cierra Krise Social Photographer

With Jade Lotus Photography, Cierra is a lifelong resident of Marion County, raised in Citra. The natural beauty of our area ignited a passion to start taking photos of local wonders and people at a young age. She continues to pursue her photography dreams at every opportunity.

Dave Schlenker

Columist

Dave is a 30 year journalist/ escapee who spent 29 of those years writing about cats. He and his wife, Amy, have two grown daughters. He is a writer and photographer with the University of Florida. He loves writing about himself in the third person.

Zoee Zarillo

Social Photographer

From the city in Connecticut, Zoee fell in love with the country and Florida through Ocala. Her passions lie in modeling, the arts, and fashion. Being in front of the camera has inspired Zoee to also work behind the camera.

Rooted in Gratitude, Growing in Purpose

SUMMER IS OFFICIALLY HERE, and with it comes a season of sunshine, celebration, and well-deserved rest. As I write this, I’m especially grateful to be enjoying two full weeks of vacation with my two children—precious time I don’t take for granted.

This July also marks a special milestone in our family. My daughter turns 14 on the 29th, and I couldn’t be prouder of the remarkable young woman she’s becoming. This year, she was honored with the Citizenship Award at The Cornerstone School, a recognition of her character, leadership, and compassion. She also took the stage in not one, but three dance recitals—ballet, pointe, and hip-hop—at the World Equestrian Center, thanks to The Dance Company of Ocala. And on top of it all, she worked hard to raise her grades across the board. Watching her grow, strive, and shine has been one of the greatest joys of fatherhood.

I’m equally proud of the community we call home. Ocala—The Horse Capital of the World—is a gem within Marion County and Central Florida, a region that continues to grow and thrive. Florida remains the fastest-growing state in the nation, and it’s no surprise why. From our natural beauty and rich culture to the warmth of our people, there’s truly something special here.

As we embrace this season of connection, I encourage all of you to take a moment to unplug—step away from the screens and devices—and spend meaningful time with those who matter most. Whether it’s family, friends, neighbors, or simply yourself, these moments of genuine connection are what summer—and life—is all about.

I also want to take a moment to recognize the incredible work being done by the Literacy Counsel. Their tireless efforts and profound impact on our community are truly inspiring. They’re not just changing lives—they’re saving them.

To the City of Ocala, to Marion County, to our civic leaders, our dedicated staff, and of course, our loyal advertisers—thank you. Your support is the backbone of our publication and the heartbeat of our community.

Wishing you all a joyful, restful, and connected summer.

PHILIP GLASSMAN, PUBLISHER

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And then there’s the trademark symbol

It’s been a quarter century since Dick Hancock decided it would be fun to tweak our equine brethren in Lexington, Kentucky, by declaring Ocala the Horse Capital of the World.

It was 1999 and the U.S. Department of Agriculture had just announced that its livestock census showed Ocala had more horses and ponies than any other county in the United States.

Hancock, then well into his 22-year stint as executive vice president of the Florida Thoroughbred Breeders’ and Owners’ Association, enjoyed the friendly rivalry between Lexington and Ocala and finally felt the blue bloods in bluegrass country could use some comeuppance. Ocala, after all, had the most horses and, therefore, it was the Horse Capital of the World.

Lexington wasn’t amused. At all. Hancock, for his part, knew exactly what he was doing.

“It’s good promotional material for everybody,” he once told the horse publication Blood Horse.

When it was clear he had truly riled the folks in Kentucky, Hancock, a lawyer and former state lawmaker in Oklahoma, decided to take things a step further and ap-

plied to trademark the words “Ocala/Marion County Horse Capital of the World.”

The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office accepted Hancock’s request in 2002 and Lexington was told to quit using the horse capital line to promote itself.

The debate continues, although it’s much more muted.

But here’s the thing, and this is based on U.S. Department of Agriculture statistics. Ocala has a strong case for being the Horse Capital of the World. We have more horses than any other county in the United States – more than 75,000, and growing.

BY BRAD ROGERS

bigger local economic impact: $6.5 billion compared with Ocala’s $4.3 billion and 80,000 jobs versus our 28,500.

But consider this. In just 10 years Ocala’s equine industry has nearly doubled its local economic impact. WEC has changed the entire dynamic of the equine industry not just in our community, but the nation. Farmland prices are soaring. And as FTBOA’s Steve Koch recently noted on the “FTBOA Podcast,” just sit by the I-75-State Road 40 exit and count the number of horse vans pulling off the interstate heading for WEC or OBS. It’s more than a few.

We have more horses than any other county in the United States – more than 75,000, and growing.

Hancock, a friend of mine, would be proud of Ocala and its continued climb in the world of horses. Would he still poke his friends in Lexington a bit? You betcha. Would he back down from declaring Ocala the Horse Capital of the World? Not a chance.

Oh, and by the way. He’d give me a call to remind me to put the trademark sign, ™, After Horse Capital of the World™. Then he’d snicker.

Bridges or Barriers: What Are Your Words Building?

BY MAYOR BEN MARCIANO

POWERFUL! That is a word we frequently hear when describing the way another person speaks. Oftentimes, the word powerful refers to a preacher or a guest speaker somewhere. The word powerful is also used to describe someone’s writing—despite the fact that we may not say it out loud, we only retweet or repost because of the power the words contain. Typically, powerful insinuates that the speaker or writer has moved the listener to action. While most of us will not find ourselves in front of an audience speaking, the words we say still hold power. That power can be used to build up or tear down. Recently, our family was fortunate enough to care for a young man whose father was trying to make a better life for the two of them. While the dad was working his plan, we told him we were proud of him. The words hit him like a ton of bricks in the chest. He said he hadn’t heard those words in a very long time, and it motivated him to want to be and do even better. Who knew genuine, yet casual, words would have that big of an impact on someone?

The words hit him like a ton of bricks in the chest. He said he hadn’t heard those words in a very long time, and it motivated him to want to be and do even better.

On the other side of that coin, how many times in your own life have you heard someone say something—perhaps even in passing—that made you stop in your tracks because of the negative blow those words dealt? Maybe the words came from someone in a position of authority or someone you really care about. Either way, those words can either build up or tear down.

As you find yourself in conversation with others—whether face-to-face or over social media—don’t neglect the power of words. We can build a bridge with our words or, within an instant, burn a bridge down—and, frighteningly enough, never have the opportunity to rebuild.

Words are important and can be very powerful. They can either build up or tear down, so use them wisely.

Ben Marciano is the mayor of Ocala.

Alecia’s heart didn’t last long enough to see her granddaughter.

But we made sure Alecia did.

When Alecia was just 25 years old, she was diagnosed with chronic heart failure, a condition she struggled with for years as her symptoms progressively worsened. Alecia’s doctor knew she wouldn’t survive without a heart transplant. But her heart was failing so fast that she might not survive the wait for a new one. Her team of UF Health experts decided on an innovative approach: Implant BiVAD devices to keep blood flowing through her failing heart. Alecia went on to become one of the longest-surviving BiVAD patients in the nation, and thanks to these revolutionary implants, Alecia lived long enough to receive a new heart. And, more importantly, to welcome her new granddaughter into the world.

Human progress has no finish line.

Locally owned and operated, we understand what it takes to support businesses across Central Florida because we’ve built ours from the ground up. Whether you run a large distribution center or a growing operation, you deserve equipment you can count on — and a team that picks up the phone.

From new and used forklifts to in-house parts, expert repairs, and dependable technicians, Liftco delivers service with integrity. With hundreds of local customers and a reputation built on trust, we’re proud to be your hometown partner for all things forklift.

Jesse Warren Gillis

Age: 39 (but emotionally somewhere between an old soul and an inquisitive raccoon).

Occupation: Arts administrator, yoga instructor, philosophical urban guerrilla.

Business/workplace: Magnolia Art Xchange (MAX)

Family life (kids, pets, etc.): Kiah, Jeremy, Jacob and Finn – some of whom are cats.

The community cause nearest my heart is: Giving artists space to be messy, loud, brilliant, and unapologetically themselves.

My favorite part of my profession is: Watching artists have their “holy crap, I can actually do this” moment.

An achievement I am proud of is: Making it this far — and making it interesting.

Jesse

Charles Heller

Age: 23

Occupation: Assistant Coordinator

Business/workplace: Institute for Human and Machine Cognition (IHMC)

Family life (kids, pets, etc.): Parents and older sister

Grand goal in life: To live a meaningful and impactful life.

When I’m not working, I: Spend time with friends, family or train for my upcoming Ironman Triathlon.

The community cause nearest my heart is: IHMC’s Science Saturday and Evening Lectures

A random talent or skill I have is: Being able to function on little to no sleep.

The best piece of advice I ever received is: Life and growth begins outside of your comfort zone.

UNDER

Charles

UNDER

Kiah Manning

Age: 37

Occupation: Interior Designer, Gestural Painter, Board Member Marion Cultural Alliance, Board Member Ocala Civic Theatre

Business/workplace: Hudson’s Furniture

Family life (kids, pets, etc.): My Jesse, my Jeremy, our Jacob (purr~)... and sometimes Finn (hiss!)

Grand goal in life: Is to make something loved by a stranger.

When I’m not working, I: Am eating ice cream or thinking about eating ice cream.

My greatest strength is: Making others feel welcome and engaged, but not necessarily comfortable.

The top three things on my bucket list are: Solo art show, farm with a creek, and cut a pop album

Kiah

Charlita

Charlita Rae Whitehead

Age: 37

Occupation: Economic Development/Cultural Arts Project Coordinator and fiber artist

Business/workplace: City of Ocala

Family life (kids, pets, etc.): My beautiful lab-hound mix, Aucilla, and my partner, Jordan Shapot. Grand goal in life: To help people reconnect with community in meaningful and liberating ways. One word that summarizes my philosophy of life is: Love

The community cause nearest my heart is: There are so many great causes, but one that is top of mind for me right now is the Ocala Free Clothing Swap. It’s a powerful example of mutual aid and neighbors taking care of each other with no strings attached.

Christian Meigan

Maigan Sardinia Jay Johnston

Age: 35

Occupation: Entrepreneur

Business: The Black Sheep on Broadway

Family life: I have 2 very loving parents living in south Florida. At home I have 2 dogs, 1 cat, 5 horses, 1 donkey, 15 chickens and a boyfriend.

Grand Goal in life: To start my own animal non-profit organization.

My greatest strength is: Event Planning Community cause nearest my heart: Give4Marion.

Go to Karaeoke or hype song: Americas sweetheart by Elle King

Age: 32

Occupation: Executive Chef

Business/workplace: Braised Onion

Family life (kids, pets, etc.): Wife and two cats, Noodle and Chloe.

One word that summarizes my philosophy of life is: People get what they give. If you put in hard work and treat people with respect and compassion, you’ll get the same back and be rewarded. If you don’t work for it, you won’t be rewarded, if you don’t respect and care for others, don’t expect it back.

A random talent or skill I have is: Remixing popular songs into nonsense that relates to my everyday life, lol.

Lindsey

Ardmore Christian Gonzales

Age: 23

Occupation: Actor

Business/workplace: Self

Employed and best known for shows at Ocala Civic Theatre

Family life (kids, pets, etc.): Living with Mom and Dad and are two dogs and two cats. One word that summarizes my philosophy of life is: Ambition

My greatest strength is: Mental fortitude

The community cause nearest my heart is: The Ocala Civic Theatre

An achievement I’m proud of is: Booked my first two regional contracts

Age: 32

Occupation: Owner/Entrepreneur

Business/workplace: Bronze OcalaOcala’s Favorite Place to Get Naked

One word that summarizes my philosophy of life is: Kindness

My greatest strength is: What you see is what you get. Whether I’m online or in person, I strive to be the same person. I believe in being authentic, even when that is hard.

The community cause nearest my heart is: Hot Girls Against Breast Cancer. I founded this initiative after I was diagnosed with invasive ductal carcinoma at 31 years old.

People who know me say I am: A gogetter. Since I was a kid, I’ve never let the grass grow under my feet.

Age: 37

Ashley Gandy Kylie Rainey

Occupation: Associate Director of Clinical Operations

Business name: Florida Cancer Specialists and Research Institute

Grand Goal in Life: My goal in life is to be happy. No matter which path life takes me, I just want to be sure it includes peace and happiness.

My greatest strength is: Process Improvement. I always look at things and think “how can we make this better."

The best piece of advice I ever received is: Just keep swimming - Dory

Age: 30

Occupation: Professor of Nursing & Business Owner

Business/workplace: College of Central Florida / Hello Little One 3D Ultrasound Family Life (kids, pets, etc.): Proud mom of three daughters, married, and always balancing work and home life with heart. Grand Goal in Life: To inspire future nurses, improve healthcare education, and make a meaningful impact through leadership and innovation.

My Favorite Part of My Profession Is: Watching students grow in confidence and skill — seeing that “aha” moment.

An Achievement I’m Proud of Is: Owning and running my own 3D ultrasound business while teaching and earning my DNP.

Brandon Betsy

Alexander Ferko Matthew Weisberg

Age: 31

Occupation: Director of Marketing & PR Business/workplace: Heart of Florida Health Center

Family life (kids, pets, etc.): I am married to the love of my life, Lindsey. We have a 1 1⁄2 year old daughter named Claire and 2 dogs. Grand goal in life: To lead people to Jesus. The community cause nearest my heart is: The Heart of Florida Health Center of course!

The top three things on my bucket list are: To attend a World Cup Final, go fishing in Alaska, and be known as a good dad. A random talent or skill I have is: I can remember obscure names and passwords from years ago... but forget where I put my phone.

Jamesha Gilliam

Age: 28

Occupation: Teacher

Business/workplace: Marion County Public Schools

Grand goal in life: To spread joy and the love of Jesus to others.

When I’m not working, I: Love going to any and all theme parks in Florida, ESPECIALLY Disney! My philosophy of life: Vivacious

The community cause nearest my heart is: I have a been a mentor for Take Stock in Children for almost 5 years now.

My favorite part of my profession is: Having a lasting impact on the next generation.

A random talent or skill I have is: Always winning something on a teddy bear claw machine!

Age:29

Occupation: Music teacher at Nieves music studio/ musician / music producer

Family: I have a 3 year old daughter and a new kitten named Barney.

Grand goal: I hope to one day fully support myself and my family with producing music. I want to be an example to my children of never letting go of gifts you may have been given. Community cause close to me: All of the work done at the The Power Plant Business Incubator (PPBI)

People who know me: Say that I lead with respect and kindness. I’m sure they say I’m quiet at first also.

Fav part of my profession: Seeing a student have the epiphany that they CAN do what they dream to do.

Brandon

Follett

Age: 30

Occupation: Owner of the Veterans Benefits Bridge, Federal Fire Fighter, Petty Officer First Class in the U.S Navy Reserves, Standup Comedian

Family Life: Beautiful wife Kimberly Follett

Grand goal in life: To be a professional touring comedian.

What I like most about Ocala: After being gone for 11 years while on active duty, I am just happy to be able to spend time with my family again.

Community cause nearest to my heart: Helping veterans use and maximize their benefits.

People who know me say I am: Very handsome

A random talent: can touch my nose with my tongue.

Mikhayla Calixto Betsy Weber

Age: 24

Occupation: Accountant

Business/workplace: Priess King & Company

Family life (kids, pets, etc.): 3 cats - Ziggy, Zola + Zoey, and my bunny, Kiwi

When I’m not working, I: Paddle board on the Rainbow River

My greatest strength is: My resiliency, my ability to keep going under pressure. The community cause nearest my heart is: Stray animals - how I’ve ended up with all of mine.

People who know me say I am: Determined My favorite part of my profession is: Helping people and problem solving. The top three things on my bucket list are: To visit Venice, own a successful accounting firm, hike the Grand Canyon.

A random talent or skil: Crocheting

Age: 38

Occupation: Executive Director

Business/workplace: Marion County Sexual Assault Center

Family life (kids, pets, etc.): HusbandDavid, 2 kids (girl and boy), and a puppy

One word that summarizes my philosophy of life is: Gratitude

My greatest strength is: Motivation and Dedication

The community cause nearest my heart is: Mental Health and Trauma

People who know me say I am: Family Oriented, Ethical, Accountable, Motivated

A random talent or skill I have is: Fluent in Toddler Negotiations

My go-to karaoke song or hype song is: Anything Nelly

Cody Clifton James Murillo

Age: 39

Occupation: Marketing Consultant/Web Developer

Business/workplace name: Squeak Media

Family life (kids, pets, etc.): I have a crazy 2 year old boxer named Durban.

Grand goal in life: To make a huge difference in a large amount of people’s lives. Whether that’s through politics, philanthropy, or community service.

When I’m not working, I: In the gym, jiujistu, riding my motorcycle, networking and hanging out with friends.

The community cause nearest my heart is: Marion Literacy Council. I

A random talent or skill I have is: I can play the drums.

aka Jimmy Fvdes Age: 35

Occupation: Barber

Business/workplace name: Elevate Barbering

Family life (kids, pets, etc.): in a relationship,2 kids and mini schnauzer

Grand goal in life: To step into my full potential while operating in my purpose

One word that summarizes my philosophy of life is: Authenticity

The community cause nearest my heart is: sports community for the kids

My favorite part of my profession is: to rebuild people’s confidence

•The top three things on my bucket list are: skydive, go on a European cruise, roadtrip across America

Arick Josh Howard Lisa Tzanakis

Age: 30

Occupation: Chief Operating Officer

Business/workplace name: HCA Florida

Ocala and West Marion Hospitals

When I’m not working, I: am Traveling! Just spent 2 weeks in Greece on a homage trip with my family. My family lineage is from Chania, Crete (largest island in Greece).

My greatest strength is: “Calm through the storm”; ability to stay cool during high pressure

My favorite part of my profession is: The mission behind the care we provide and the patient stories that keep us going.

My go-to karaoke song or hype song is: Africa – Toto

Age: 34

Occupation: Assistant Principal of Curriculum

Business/Workplace Name: Marion Technical Institute/ Marion County Public Schools

One word that summarizes my philosophy of life is: Purpose

The community cause nearest my heart is: Helping at-risk youth.

My favorite part of my profession is: Watching students succeed and finally realize that they have the ability to change their lives and educations for the better.

The top three things on my bucket list are: Going to Japan, publishing a book, and climb a snowy mountain.

A random talent or skill I have is: black belt in Isshin-ryū karate.

Age: 23

Lisa

Trey Patterson Nina Thauer Cody

Occupation: Owner at SynergySoftwash and TC Illuminations

Family life (kids, pets, etc.): fiancé and we are expecting our first in September. When I’m not working, I: I like to Fish, Hunt, Spend time at the beach, and the outdoors in general.

The community cause nearest my heart is: Supporting local Veterans through donations and fishing trips.

My favorite part of my profession is: Building lasting and quality relationships with our customers as a reliable service provider.

The top three things on my bucket list are: travel to Scotland, Egypt, and Ireland

The best piece of advice I ever received is: keep those around you who you aspire to be, your 5 closest friends reflect who you are.

Age: 27

Occupation: LPGA Golf Professiona

Business/workplace name: Golden Ocala

Golf & Equestrian Club

Grand goal in life: Head Golf Professional at a private golf course.

What I like most about living in Ocala is: Exploring our beautiful trails and springs.

One word that summarizes my philosophy of life is: Limitless

The community cause nearest my heart is: McKenzie‘s Moment

The top three things on my bucket list are:

Play every top golf course in the world, hike the Appalachian, and go skydiving

The best piece of advice I ever received is:

If you know you could do better, do it

An achievement I’m proud of is: my LPGA card

Bailey

Bailey Adams Haley von Haven

Age: 35

Occupation: Mental Health Counselor and Bartender

Business/workplace name: From The Heart Counseling and The Tipsy Skipper

Family life (kids, pets, etc.): Sam Betty my ride or die, Pepper puppy and Henry kitty

Grand goal in life: To have a successful career that combines my mental health background with my affinity for hospitality- it’s a WIP.

One word that summarizes my philosophy of life is: Meraki. It’s a Greek word that essentially translates to “doing what you do with passion, pure heart and soul.”

The community cause nearest my heart is: The Ocala Outreach Foundation

The top three things on my bucket list are: Visit Paris, meet Marc Maron, and swim in the Maldives.

Brien Weidemiller

Age: 36

Occupation: Automotive repair shop owner

Business name: Weide Automotive Repair

Family: 2 kids Sophia (11years old) Elijah (6) years old They are the loves of my life I do everything for their betterment

Grand Goal in Life: For there to be Weide Automotives everywhere – an honest, reliable, Christ-centered company that treats the customer like friends and family. Philosophy of life: LOVE

The community cause nearest to my heart: Mental health is incredibly important to me. Favorite part of my profession is: Getting the opportunity to create happiness and saving people from despair.

Age: 35

Occupation:PA-C injector and Co-Owner of the Fix Aesthetic Clinic

Business/workplace name: The Fix Aesthetic Clinic

Family life (kids, pets, etc.): Husband, Don; Rescue puppies, Emmy and Wellington; Horse, Nuno

When I’m not working, I: Am out at the barn riding my horse, showing dressage at WEC, or traveling with my husband.

My greatest strength is: My grit. When I have a goal, I will put my head down and work hard until I accomplish it.

The top three things on my bucket list are: Getting my USDF Gold medal, becoming fluent in French, and visiting every continent.

Age:39

Occupation: Photographer

Photography

Jasmine Daffron Ross Anthony

Age: 38

Occupation: Florist

Business/workplace name: Build-aBouquet

Family life (kids, pets, etc.): I’m married with 2 kids, have a close-knit family, love to play poker and love to dote on our cats— they run the house.

When I’m not working, I: Am probably gardening, baking something sweet, or binge-watching crime documentaries while sipping an iced coffee.

One word that summarizes my philosophy of life is: Bloom

The community cause nearest my heart is: Local schools and teachers—I used to be one.

My go-to karaoke song or hype song is: “Man! I Feel Like a Woman!” by Shania Twain—because duh.

Business/workplace name: Levon Rossi

Family life (kids, pets, etc.): My son Adrian(16)

One word that summarizes my philosophy of life is: Gratitude

The community cause nearest my heart is: The Marion Literacy Council

People who know me say I am: People who know me say I’m a mix between a therapist, a stand-up comic, and someone who probably needs both. I get things done, crack a few jokes doing it, and somehow still show up on time.

Wynn Vickers

Age: 37

Occupation: Attorney

Business/workplace name: Douglas Law Firm

Family life: My husband, Bradley, and I have three kids- Mackenzie (10), Luke (4) and Violet (2)- and two pets; our chocolate labrador, Captain America, and a cat named Katniss Everdeen

When I’m not working, I: Unfortunately, I’m swimming or running. In a momentary lapse in judgement, I signed up to swim 1.2 miles in a Half-Ironman relay and run a marathon next year.

The community cause nearest my heart is: Community Legal Services (CLS)

A random talent or skill I have is: Soup making. It’s more like a superpower. I can make any soup, but I refuse to make chicken-noodle because it’s lame.

Wynn Ross

Garrett Sapp Evan Brandies

Age: 37

Occupation: AVP, Commercial Banker

Business/workplace: First Federal Bank

Family life (kids, pets, etc.): Two boys.

Two-year old Shepherd “Shep”, Four-year old Whitaker “Whit”

Grand goal in life: To live each day happy, healthy and grateful.

The community cause nearest my heart is: Advocating for those with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

The top three things on my bucket list are: Visit Ireland and Scotland, Watch the Jacksonville Jaguars win the Super Bowl, Sink a Hole-In-One.

A random talent or skill I have is: Being very good at trivia.

Hilary Hoover

Age: 33

Occupation: Speech Language Pathologist, Owner and Clinical Director

Business/workplace: SOL Therapies

Grand goal in life: Building a clinic where patients and their families can come for comprehensive therapies - SLP, OT, PT, Counseling.

When I’m not working, I: Take my dogs on adventures.

My philosophy of life: Adaptability

The community cause nearest my heart is: The special needs community

My favorite part of my profession is: Helping families and watching patients reach their goals.

A random talent or skill I have is: Writing upside down! I do this all the time when sitting across from patients.

Renee Brandies

Age: 35

Occupation: Design Consultant/Realtor/ Philanthropy

Business/workplace: Castle Carpets & Interiors, Magnolia Homes & Land, Harlow’s Helping Hands

Grand goal in life: To live out the purpose God has placed on my life.

When I’m not working, I: Chauffeur some really cool kids, look for water bottles to fill, enjoying the outdoors, soak up every moment with family, loving others, and trusting God through it all.

My greatest strength is: My ability to meet people right where they are in life.

The community cause nearest my heart is: Harlow’s Helping Hands

People who know me say I am: Loyal, passionate, faith-filled, and always ready to lend a hand or a hug.

Age: 37

Occupation: Flooring store owner, cofounder of the non-profit Harlow's Helping Hands, and real estate investor

Grand goal: To live like Harlow- love others, enjoy every moment, and TRUST God.

Community cause close to me: Water safety and drowning prevention.

People who know me: Say that I am kind and caring.

Fav part of my profession: Determined, committed, compassionate, and driven.

My go-to karaoke: "Thinking Out Loud" by Ed Sheeran.

Gavin Gosik

Age: 36

Occupation: Legacy Furniture Mattress/ Ocala Hot Tubs

Family Life: Married to my beautiful wife

Sara Gosik. We have two little boys together ages 5 and 3.

Grand goal in life: Walking my way closer to God and being the leader he would want to be for others.

What I like most about Ocala: I love the hometown feel.

Community cause nearest to my heart: Habitat for Humanity

People who know me say I am: This all depends who you talk to of course. My Family and Friends will say I am extremely loyal, generous, and determined.

A random talent: Not to toot my own horn but I am a pretty amazing cook.

Chelsea Winter Burr Garrett

Age: 34

Occupation: Tattoo Artist/Graphic Designer

Business/workplace: Tattoo Gallery of Ocala / Stranger Flowers Yet (Tattoo Artist) & Wintermedia Studio (Owner)

Family life (kids, pets, etc.): I am married to my amazing wife, Shanna. We share our home with our dog and our two cats.

One word that summarizes my philosophy of life is: Evolving

My greatest strength is: My drive to keep practicing, improving, and pushing forward. The community cause nearest my heart is: Mental health awareness - I've had the chance to contribute through some local art projects, and it's always been an important topic to me.

People who know me say I am: Determined, creative, and always juggling about five projects at once.

A random talent or skill I have is: I can throw a man three times my size, make duck sounds with my hands, and twitch my left eye on command - all highly practical skills, obviously.

Hilary

Sabrina H

James Carolyn Preston

Sabrina

B

Sam

Sabrina Hughs Carlyn Bone

Age: 32

Occupation: Executive Director

Business/workplace: Transitions Life Center & Community, Inc.

Family life (kids, pets, etc.): 8 year old son, 3 small dogs.

Grand goal in life: To treat others with kindness, respect, empathy, and compassion as a consistent theme, even when they don't deserve it.

The community cause nearest my heart is: Transitions Life Center - special needs

The top three things on my bucket list are: A European cruise, learn a 3rd language, scuba dive in the Great Barrier Reef.

A random talent or skill I have is: Soy candle making.

Sabrina Barroso

Age: 36

Occupation: Caterer/Local Cheese Dealer

Business/workplace: Graze and Prosper Grand goal in life: Is to purchase a villa in Europe and host tours experiencing the food and culture of the area.

When I’m not working, I: Love to experience culture through food while traveling and take my kiddos on grand adventures.

My philosophy of life: JOY

The community cause nearest my heart is: Harlow Helping Hands

My favorite part of my profession is: Creating everyday moments exquisitely through food.

A random talent or skill I have is: Remembering the most random food preference of a client.

James Butler

Age: 38

Occupation: Vice President

Business/workplace: H3 adventures (Healing Hometown Heroes)

Family life (kids, pets, etc.): Three beautiful daughters and an amazing British labrador

When I’m not working, I: Strength training at Iron Legion or taking out first responders and veterans on Eco Therapy Sessions.

My greatest strength is: Empathetic leadership

The community cause nearest my heart is: Healing Hometown Heroes

People who know me say I am: Driven

My favorite part of my profession is: Just giving back to an amazing first responder veteran community.

The top three things on my bucket list are: Building H3 adventures, swimming in the beautiful waters of Montana or Wyoming, riding a bicycle from Miami to Washington DC.

Age: 37

Occupation: Event Manager at World Equestrian Center

Family: Proud cat mom to Lady and Gus. Grand goal: To follow an unconventional path, always do the next right thing, and help others along the way.

Community cause close to me: The Arnette House in Ocala

People who know me: Say that I am kind and caring.

Fav part of my profession: Solving problems and bringing my clients’ visions to life.

My go-to karaoke: “I Gotta Feeling” by The Black Eyed Peas

Preston Kirkpatrick

Age: 30

Occupation: Commercial Real Estate

Investment Management

Family Life: My wife, Lisa, two beautiful children, and two wonderfer dogs

Grand goal in life: To be 1% better each day and to maximize value I bring to my family, friendships, and my work.

What I like most about Ocala: Its natural beauty, bike trails, and close-knit community.

Community cause nearest to my heart: Habitat for Humanity

People who know me say I am: Focused, disciplined, and curious.

A random talent: I can bend my finger all the way back and touch my wrist.

Sam Maynard III

Age: 36

Occupation: Realtor

Business/workplace: Your Place Ocala

Family life (kids, pets, etc.): My amazing partner, 2 cats and a new Aussie Pit puppy

One word that summarizes my philosophy of life is: Kindness

My greatest strength is: My humor. The community cause nearest my heart is: Mental health. My greatest goal in life is to set up a fund that helps people get the tools they need to overcome their traumas.

People who know me say I am: A great friend, supportive, loyal, funny, and passionate.

A random talent or skill I have is: I can spot B-list celebrity look-a-likes.

My go-to karaoke song or hype song is: I rock Here I Go Again by Whitesnake every karaoke night, but Welcome Home by Coheed and Cambria will always get my pumped.

Celebrating local love stories and the magic of “I do”

Cameron Lennon Miller-Dawson and Ronnilynne Brandy Williams

Date of Wedding: May 11, 2025

Bride’s Hometown: Fort McCoy, Florida

Groom’s Hometown: Ocala, Florida

Parents of Groom: Jessica Miller

Parents of Bride: Rhonda and Rocky Williams

Photography: Kacey Farese Photography

Design: “Old Money” style

Ring: Vintage-style 18k yellow gold crossover band with waterfall diamond cluster setting

Floral: Tropical – hibiscus, baby’s breath, white wisteria

Venue: St. Paul’s Church of Key West

How we met: In May of 2019 we met through mutual friends.

Engaged: December 22, 2023 on Cameron's birthday

Honeymoon: Florida Keys

Special touches: Signature scents for bride and groom

Unusual happenings: Wedding party procession down Duval Street in Key West, private vows, champagne toast at sunset on Mallory Square, plus it was Mother’s Day.

Madi and Keegan Kash

Date of wedding: November 16, 2024

Bride hometown: Ocala, FL

Groom hometown: Ocala, FL

Parents of Groom: Michael and Bonnie Kash

Parents of Bride: Neila Friend (mother)

Hair and Makeup: Maudie Lucas

Photography: Making It Matthew’s

Ring: Kay Jewelers

Floral: Madi’s Mom

Venue: Licciardello Farms

How we met: Through mutual friends at a Booster stadium football game

Engaged: 1/1/2022 on top of light house in St. Augustine

Honeymoon: Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Claudia Hernandez and Ryan Dunne

Date of wedding: April 19, 2025

Bride’s hometown: Cape Coral, FL

Groom’s Hometown: Naples, FL

Parents of Groom: Jerry and Sheryl Dunne

Parents of Bride: Juan Jose Hernandez and Dagmara Fernandez

Hair: TBQ Bridal & Beauty

Makeup: Makeup by Steph Moser

Venue: Golden Ocala - Georgina Rarick

Photographer: Hood Photography

DJ: Tanner Johnson

Floral: Brick City Flowers

How we met: Undergrad in college

Engaged: Jan. 27, 2024, at Alachua County Horse Retirement

Home

Honeymoon: Longboat Key, FL

Special touch: Bride of parents first dance

Unusual happening: Love Story Before Us station

Favorite moments of our wedding: DJ Tanner. Saying our vows. First look. First and last dance.

Taylor Whitten and Warren Quandt

Date of wedding: March 23, 2025

Bride’s hometown: Camden, SC

Groom’s hometown: Clermont, FL

Parents of Groom: Dean & Ann Quandt

Parents of Bride: Dean Whitten & April Miller

Hair and Makeup: Pretty N Pinned - Nicci

Photography: Vande Weddings

Video: Vande Weddings

DJ: Tanner Johnson Music

Design: Golden Ocala

Ring: Boutique designer

How we met: Warren followed Taylor on Instagram

Engaged: Warren proposed on the beach at sunrise

Honeymoon: Mini honeymoon was to St. Pete. (Honeymoon to be determined once Taylor completes college in the fall.)

Favorite moments of your wedding: All of it

Carly Herrin Muckler and Kyle Muckler

Date of wedding: March 29, 2025

Bride hometown: Jackson, MS

Groom hometown: Des Moines, IA

Parents of Groom: Julie Muckler

Parents of Bride: Leigh Herrin

Hair and Makeup: Truluck

Photography: Matt Whytsell Photography

DJ: Genius

Design: Golden Ocala

Ring: Gause & Son

Floral: Julie – Brick City

Venue: Golden Ocala

How we met: Horse Showing

Favorite moments of your wedding: Having our friends and family from far and near joining us to celebrate this wonderful day.

Victoria Walden and Scotty Keidel

Date of wedding: May 3, 2025

Bride’s hometown: Urbana, OH

Groom’s hometown: Salisbury, MD

Parents of Groom: Timothy S. Keidel Sr. and Michelle Keidel

Parents of Bride: Kevin Walden and Constance Walden

Hair and Makeup: APGBeauty of Orlando @apgbeauty

Photography: Amber Yonker Photography of Tampa

Video: Tanner Castro Films - Salt Lake City

DJ: Spotify playlist

Design: Georgina - Golden Ocala

Ring: DearEliette @deareliette

Floral: Julie Brick City @brickcityflowers

Officiant: John Branard – Ocala, Fl @storybook

Venue: Golden Ocala Country Club

How we met: Dating App - Hinge, year 2019

Engaged: Cypress Gardens, South Carolina (where “The Notebook’ was filmed.) We were walking through the gardens and looking out into the water and when I turned around he was down on one knee.

Honeymoon: St. Lucia. We went deep sea fishing (twice), Ziplining, snorkeling, jet skiing, and just explored the island a bit eating local bananas, coconut and mangos! It was amazing.

Special touches: I had Scotty choose his suit color without me knowing what it was until my eyes met his coming down the aisle. It was an amazing surprise (he chose a copper brown). It was fun to see him excited about it. I kept our day as intimate as possible, opting for our immediate family only. Instead of having a DJ and dancing we chose a family game night. Small intimate wedding with a total of 24 guests. I had vintage locket cufflinks that I placed my baby pictures of my dad and me in so he had a piece of us as he walked me down the aisle. I did the same thing for my mom in a locket style necklace!

Unusual happenings: It went perfectly!

Favorite moments of your wedding: Honestly, just spending time with my people and family was the best experience, we were able to talk to everyone and still have moments to ourselves to just enjoy our day together because it was a day for the two of us joining together as one!

Alexis Yahre and Dylan Walsh

Date of wedding: March 8, 2025

Bride’s hometown: Tampa, FL

Groom’s hometown: Williamsburg, KY

Parents of Groom: Patrick Walsh and Rose Isaac

Parents of Bride: Adam and Nikole Yahre

Hair and Makeup: Crystal Konz

Photography: Amethyst Weddings (Stephen Zane) and Michael Schuhmann

DJ: Grant Hemond and Associates (Jason Tally)

Design: Golden Ocala

Ring: Empire Custom Jewelry

Floral: Amazing Floral Events (Mary Rumph)

Venue: Golden Ocala

How we met: We first met at my cousin’s annual Fourth of July party, which always comes with a ridiculous theme. That year’s was “Tacky Dads,” and Dylan went all in — he showed up wearing socks with sandals, jorts, and a fake baby strapped to his chest with tiny American flags glued to its hands. I couldn’t stop laughing. I remember thinking, Well, at least I know he’s funny — and one day, he’ll probably be a great dad.

Engaged: Valentine’s Day 2024 — my favorite holiday. He brought me back to Armature Works in Tampa, where we had our first date. Dylan used to design rings, and he created mine from scratch. It features a vintage-cut diamond from my grandmother, who had recently passed, along with new diamonds he added himself.

Honeymoon: For our honeymoon, we took an Eastern Caribbean cruise with Virgin Voyages.

Special touches: Dylan and I had so much fun making the wedding our own. I think the most impactful was when we created whimsical place card holders out of little bunny statues we found. Honestly, there were so many personal touches, I couldn’t list them all.

Unusual happenings: We got our dream traditional wedding, and I feel like we got exactly that. The only curveball came the morning of, when it unexpectedly rained. We had originally planned for an all outdoor ceremony, but had to make a quick switch to a covered space at the venue. Thankfully, the transition was seamless.

Favorite moments of your wedding: Dylan said his favorite moment from the wedding was our vows during the ceremony. He wrote his from the heart. For me, it was our first looks and the quiet time getting ready with my mom. After the bridesmaids stepped out, my mom stayed behind to help me zip up my dress and place my veil—just the two of us in the room. Aside from the bridesmaids, I did two first looks: one with Dylan, and one with my dad. My dad has bladder cancer and for a while, we weren’t even sure he’d be able to attend. Having that peaceful, emotional moment with him before the ceremony is something I’ll always hold close. Seeing Dylan for the first time, both of us dressed up and full of anticipation, was incredibly emotional too. I had been a nervous wreck all morning, but the second I saw him, it felt like I could finally breathe. From that moment on, I was fully present and able to soak in and enjoy every part of the day.

Six Har-Tru Tennis Courts

Full-Service Salon & Spa

Fitness Center & Classes

Equestrian Facilities & Trails Resort-Style Pool

Unmatched Dining Experiences

Vibrant Member Events

EVERYTHING OLD IS New Again

Restoring the Hotel Marion to its former glory

WBY BRAD ROGERS

hen historic preservationists nominated the former Hotel Marion in downtown Ocala for inclusion on the National Register of Historic Places in 1980, they cited two specific reasons for its historic significance: its architectural uniqueness and its social impact.

In the first instance, the hotel that opened in 1927 is a major example of Mediterranean Revival architecture, and one of the last remaining buildings of that motif in Ocala.

As for its social impact, from its very beginning, the Hotel Marion and its events and guests have signaled Ocala’s highs and lows over nearly a century of growth and

change – right up to today.

Now, the Hotel Marion is a testament to the old adage everything old is new again.

BACK TO THE FUTURE

Since August 2023, Ocala lawyer/investor/ philanthropist David Midgett has been undertaking a restoration of the once great hotel into what will eventually be a Hilton Tapestry boutique hotel. As National Register of Historic Places site, that restoration has been tedious and detailed, requiring not just renovation but restoration as close to the hotel’s original form as possible. Each aspect of the restoration must meet the requirements

of the U.S. Park Service, which oversees the National Register of Historic Places.

To achieve this, Midgett has employed Lake Mary-based Collage Construction and Design Group and Austin Historical to ensure historical accuracy.

In addition to having to meet the restoration requirements of the U.S. Park Service, the old building also has a “façade easement” on its exterior through the Florida Trust of Historic Preservation. That facade easement, implemented in 1985, dictates that the exterior of the building must be maintained in its original state “into perpetuity.”

“It’s probably as close to original as we

could get,” said Ken Boggs, chief financial officer of Midgett Holdings, which operates hotels around the world.

So detailed is the demand to adhere to originalism that the project incurred an estimated $1 million cost to restore the original cypress wood window frames rather than replace the worn window frames with modern ones.

In addition to the windows, the metal roof had to be removed and replaced with a “barrel tile” roof like the one that the building had originally. Boggs said even the flag pole atop the seven-story building is the original one.

“It’s been very, very educational, fun and challenging,” Boggs said. “And we think it’s going to be an attraction.”

What contractors have found during the restoration that is expected to be completed in spring of 2026 is that the solid concrete building is in incredibly good shape structurally.

“It’s in fabulous shape,” said Bob Gilbert, who is leading Collage Construction’s team on the project.

Added Boggs: “They don’t build them like this anymore. This thing will be standing

“IT’S PROBABLY AS CLOSE TO

original

AS WE COULD GET.”

a thousand years from now.”

When the Hotel Marion’s restoration is complete, the original 100-room hotel will have 59 rooms, Boggs said.

Besides guest rooms, the resurrected Hotel Marion will feature a 40,000-squarefoot lobby that will feature a restaurant –“not a hotel restaurant, but a restaurant in a hotel,” Boggs emphasized – as well as a café bistro and a “grand lobby bar.” The hotel will also have a cigar bar and a gym as well.

by Joshua

Photos

Jacobs

THE RESURRECTED

Hotel Marion

WILL FEATURE A 40,000-SQUARE-FOOT LOBBY THAT WILL FEATURE A RESTAURANT –“NOT A HOTEL RESTAURANT, BUT A RESTAURANT IN A HOTEL.”

A LANDMARK TO BIG MOMENTS

While historic preservationists gush over the building’s “popular 1920s Mediterranean Revival architecture style,” they also note that the hotel was the backdrop for significant social milestones for the community.

“It also stands as a symbol and expression of the community spirit, unity and prosperity which existed in Marion County during the decade following World War I,” Rolla Queen, a historic sites specialist for the Florida Division of Archives History and Records Management, wrote in 1980.

According to Queen, maybe the most important player in the building of the Hotel Marion was a man who never lived in Ocala. His name was Thomas Meighan, and few people today have ever heard of him.

In 1925, however, Meighan was one of Hollywood’s biggest stars of the silent film era, and he came to Ocala to film “Old Home Week” at Silver Springs.

Meighan loved Florida — and Ocala in particular — and after filming “Old Home Week” the movie star suggested Ocala could

be a movie star in its own right.

Wrote Queen: “The enthusiasm of Meighan and other members of the motion picture community spurred local interest for building a hotel in Ocala.”

According to newspaper accounts at the time, Queen wrote, civic and business leaders, led by former mayor Dr. James Chace, “determined that Ocala needed a first-class hotel to meet the demands of tourists and traveling salesmen. However, it is widely held Meighan and the movie community convinced the leaders of the Ocala community that all the city needed was a first-class hotel to become ‘the Hollywood of the East.’”

The Chamber of Commerce formed a committee of 140 “volunteer boosters” – significant considering Ocala’s population was just 6,500 – to raise money for that first-class hotel. Adopting the motto “What Ocala Builds Builds Ocala,” the committee began selling stock in the Community Hotel Corp. Shares were sold in blocks of three shares for $300.

“In less than six weeks, the committee had raised $500,000 ($50,000 for the land, $450,000 for the hotel),” Queen wrote.

Photos by Joshua Jacobs

“Most of the stock was purchased by local citizens.” Meighan also was among the shareholders, having bought $5,000 worth of stock (about $91,000 in 2025 dollars.) Interestingly, the site chosen for the Hotel Marion was where the First Baptist Church was located. The church was torn down and moved to a new downtown location.

Part of the motivation to build the Hotel Marion was local leaders’ desire to appear progressive. Florida was in the midst of its famous – and later infamous – land boom in the 1920s, and Ocala and Marion County governments had built more than 400 miles of new paved roads in the county and believed a top-notch hotel would enhance the community’s image.

In March 1927, the Hotel Marion opened “with a gala attended by over 300 of the county’s business, professional and social leaders,” the Ocala Evening Star reported.

Local historian and newspaperman David Cook, in an August 2007 “The Way It Was” column in the Ocala Star-Banner, described the Hotel Marion, upon its opening, as “one of Florida’s leading hotels.”

“Ocala had plenty of hotel accommodations in the 1920s … but local leaders believed they didn’t measure up to the modern image they wanted for Ocala,” Cook wrote.

“By the time the Marion opened, the boom was over, and within months, Ocala began to get a foretaste of the Great Depression of the 1930s.”

THE RICH AND FAMOUS

Despite the waning economy at the time, the Hotel Marion remained popular and successful, Cook wrote.

Not only did the Marion remain successful, it attracted numerous famous guests. W.C. Fields stayed there. So did novelist Sinclair Lewis. During their years of bringing their minor league affiliates to Ocala for training, the Boston Red Sox often inhabited the Marion, including Hall of Famers Ted Williams and Carl Yastrzemski.

IT WAS 1961 AND

Elvis

WAS IN OCALA FILMING PART OF HIS MOVIE “FOLLOW THAT DREAM.”

star. The article reads:

Martin Stephens said he was one of four Ocala police officers constantly assigned to guard Elvis. Stephens estimated more than 100 local security personnel were hired to work on the movie.

One day, Elvis went to eat lunch with the movie crew at the old Marion Hotel. The four cops waited by the door when Elvis went inside. A few minutes later, Elvis returned.

‘Hey guys,’ Stephens said Elvis told them, ‘we don’t have a lot of time left, you better get in here and get something to eat.’ Stephens said Elvis ordered four steaks for the cops. And Elvis ate a grilled cheese sandwich.

the Marion. Rawlings and Baskin met when she visited the hotel and eventually got married, leaving Ocala shortly thereafter to open a hotel of their own in St. Augustine.

OUT WITH THE OLD

In the 1970s and ‘80s, the Marion went the way of so many other downtown businesses, falling on hard times. While it was added to the National Register of Historic Place and the Florida Trust for Historic Preservation, it was converted to office condominiums in the 1990s after it was taken over by the Ocala National Bank, which adorned the top of the building with its red neon sign for years. In 2007, it was renamed the Marion Sovereign Building.

When the last office condo lease ended in 2022, Midgett moved in and began restoring the gutted interior.

While Midgett will own the restored Hotel Marion, it will be operated by the Ocala-based ARK hotel group, led by CEO Azim Saju. It will be a part of the Hilton Tapestry Collection, which the hotel giant described as a “collection of independent boutique hotels, each rich in cultural charm and each deeply connected to its destination.”

For nearly a century, the Hotel Marion has stood over downtown Ocala as its tallest building (still is!) and with its restored confines nearing completion it could for another century.

Author Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings, who won the Pulitzer Prise for her book “The Yearling,” frequented the Marion and met her future husband there. During the 1930s, a man named Norman Baskin was manager of

Maybe the hotel’s most famous visitor was one Elvis Aaron Presley. It was 1961 and Elvis was in Ocala filming part of his movie “Follow That Dream.” Here is a recounting of the story from a 2007 Ocala Star-Banner article “Residents remember the day Elvis came to town.” There were four Ocala policemen in tow to provide security for the

Brian Stoothoff, a retired city firefighter and a longtime member of the Historic Ocala Preservation Society, remembers attending firemen’s balls and weddings in the hotel in the 1970s.

“It’s a pretty cool building, “ he said. Indeed. And, now, everything old will be new again.

Fitness & Aquatic Center

Engaging Activities

Life Care Program

Professional Personal Trainer

On-site

Dining Venues & Bar

State-of-the

Manatees,Newsrooms, Endangered Species and Other

fter the University of Central Florida launched me into the wild in 1990, I spent nearly 30 years at the Ocala Star-Banner

It was a charmed career filled with shady politicians, tragedies, celebrations, Erik Estrada and the occasional poultry anomaly.

It was also filled with journalists.

When I started, there were nearly 70 people in the Star-Banner newsroom, including a dining critic and a society reporter – a near-retirement former sports reporter entrusted with a bowtie and dispatched to local galas.

I note these positions because they now

seem like fiction in modern newsrooms. A society reporter whose job was rubbing elbows with sequined mavens and tracking charity dollars?

At one point, the Star-Banner had two dining critics.

As I write this, the Star-Banner has two staffers in the newsroom – I say “newsroom” for lack of a better term, as that mighty staff no longer has a central office. There is now a plumbing supply business in that old newsroom and, I’m told, a state-of-the-art toilet is on display at my old desk.

As the newspaper industry continued to crumble in 2019, I left for a Duke Energy job three weeks before I would have been laid off.

I am now a communications manager with the Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering at the University of Florida. I remain a storyteller, but now my stories are about robot dogs and satellites that detect cholera.

I follow hurricane researchers scrambling up the coast hours before storms make landfall. I interview cybersecurity professors who develop defenses against deepfakes

No matter what quill I hold, I want to be a part of journalism’s revival.

aimed at vulnerable populations. I report on drones enhancing crops. I photographed lasers in a wind tunnel.

As a public relations professional – a term that used to make me bristle – I inform, fact-check, research, report and employ engaging narratives to tell stories with tangible consequences.

At age 57, I am reaching a new audience with the same skills I used in coffee-stained newsrooms.

When I pass through UF’s College of Journalism and Communications en route to Chick-Fil-A, I can’t help but think about the state of print journalism. More specifically, I think about that tactile satisfaction of a newspaper at the breakfast table.

Front page first. Then the comics, obits and Local & State.

If it was a Friday, the fourth stop was Matt Manatee’s page, where local kids wrote hundreds of letters to a manatee each week about rockets, dogs, annoying brothers, snacks and horrific dad jokes.

Matt Manatee was an Ocala institution, and I suited up in the ripe ole costume dozens of times while visiting schools. Chances are, your child has punched me in the manatee privates or looked in my mesh manatee eyes and screamed, “YOU’RE A MAN!!!”

Good times.

Seriously. The best.

Our hometown newspaper created that sense of community and so much more. The Star-Banner is still, with a tiny-but-noble staff, covering the news. In recent years, the Ocala Gazette surfaced, making this town the rarest of breeds in 2025 – a two-newspaper town.

I love both papers. I love this magazine. And, frankly, I have a sliver of hope for the entire print industry. Not sure why, really, but I feel the ink may not dry up completely.

I believe in solid, accountable journalism. I believe in the power of engaging storytelling. I believe in reliable information from trusted platforms.

In an age of disinformation and careless conduits, those principles are critical.

These words were originally written months ago as part of my graduate-school application to a master’s program in digital journalism and multimedia storytelling. And, yes, I recognize the irony of summoning creaky, flask-in-the-desk newsrooms to master digital-multimedia journalism.

But the two worlds are not far apart. To be effective, both demand those old-school principles – including storytelling that accurately and compassionately chronicles a community.

No matter what quill I hold, I want to be a part of journalism’s revival, be it with a laptop and a notebook or at a kitchen table with a coffee mug.

Either way, I want to see the trickedout toilet that marks, perhaps appropriately, my decades as a proud, stain-on-the-tie, pencil-chewing, donut-eating community journalist.

play

One of the dozens of blocks of art from the 2025 MCA Block Party 12”x12” | Mixed Media | By Nikki Upton

GOlist

Brought to you by GO52.events

There are 52 weeks in each year. What are you doing this week?

Summer Cookout Art Show

July 12 | 4 p.m. | Magnolia Art Xchange

MAX is turning up the heat with a summer cookout–themed group exhibition curated by resident artist Tyrek Studivant. The show features new work from all of our current studio residents and offers a warm welcome to three new artists joining the community: Roseprimevere, Gavin Pate, and Kayla Moffatt! There’ll be great cookout food, live music, and plenty of room to hang out. Expect an evening of bold, playful, and honest work—art that doesn’t mind getting a little smoke on it. Come through, bring a friend, and stay a while.

Couch Sessions Season 8, Episode 3

July 11 | 7 p.m. - 9 p.m. | Hudson’s Furniture

An immersive experience where live music and visual art unfold together in real time—each brushstroke moving in rhythm with the music, each note painting its own emotion. You’re not just watching from the sidelines—you’re part of it. The artists and musicians open up about their journeys, sharing the stories, challenges, and inspirations behind their work. Tickets: https:// couchsessionsocala.com/events

Summer Stroll and Score

Downtown Ocala

July 2025

Support our small businesses in downtown Ocala at the Summer Stroll & Score event! Enter one week, or every week! Here are the Rules. Visit at least 4 places DURING THE WEEK. Drop card by entry date. New winners each week. No purchase necessary.

Art in the Attic 2025: MCA

Annual yArt Sale!

July 2-19 | Open During Gallery Hours | Brick City Center for the Arts

Join and support the Marion Cultural Alliance (MCA) for our beloved annual Art in the Attic yART Sale — a creative twist on a classic thrift sale, packed with personality and purpose! All proceeds support MCA’s mission to champion, create and convene the arts and artists of Marion County. Gallery admission is free.

Murals and Melodies: A Community Art Celebration

July 11 | 3 p.m. - 5 p.m. | Brick City Center for the Arts

Discover the vibrant new panels that will soon grace The Brick’s awning— details of which will be revealed at this exciting gathering. Presented by the City of Ocala in partnership with Marion Cultural Alliance (MCA), this event provides a unique chance to mingle with the talented artists and celebrate creativity and community together. Don’t miss this memorable opportunity to engage with the art and artists before the panels are installed on Monday, July 14th, 2025.

Arts for All: Summer Shows

Ocala Civic Theatre

July 11-13 | “Property Rites” The Robots are alive! In this one-act play, does art imitate life, or is it the other way around - and what is truly real?

July 18-20 | “Beetlejuice” Life (and the afterlife) in a haunted house is wild for both ghosts and hosts in this frightfully funny musical. Daylight come and…It’s showtime! Tickets: ocalacivictheatre.com

House Concert Fundraiser

July 12 | 7 p.m. | Your Phoenix is Rising Amy Steinberg will be at Your Phoenix Is Rising for a House

Concert to raise funds for the Joyful Expressions trip to Posi-Music Festival. A treat for your ears! There will also be a bake sale to satisfy your taste buds. Tickets available at: https://www.cslocala.org/events

Mixed Media Adventure

July 19 | 1 p.m. - 3 p.m. | Arts

In Health Ocala Metro

Unleash your imagination in this fun and engaging 2-hour mixed media workshop designed for both children and adults! Participants will explore a variety of materials, such as paint, paper, fabric, and found objects, to create unique, layered artworks. No experience is necessary, just a willingness to play and experiment. Perfect for families or individuals looking to connect through creativity and self-expression in a relaxed, supportive environment. Register here: https://tinyurl.com/yc2fdjsp

Speed Dating with Wingman of the Year

July 23 | 7 p.m. - 9 p.m. |

Infinite Ale Works

Attention, singles! Ready to ditch the apps and meet your match face-toface? Join us for Speed Dating With Wingman Of The Year, an exciting evening of fun, flirty connections, and great vibes—all hosted by the one and only Hunter Werner, cofounder of Wingman Of The Year. https://tinyurl.com/ynm3f2f7

Seafood Festival

July 26 | 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. | Midtown Station

Join in for a great day of fun! We will have seafood from many different vendors, live music, games, and maybe a few surprises in store.

Heart Healthy Go Red for Women

Recently, the Marion County community gathered at the Circle Cultural Square at On Top of the World for the annual Go Red for Women luncheon. Celebrating its 20th anniversary, this event has become a cornerstone in Ocala’s efforts to promote women’s heart health.

The luncheon, held from 10:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., embraced the theme of Women’s Heart Health, with attendees donning business attire in vibrant shades of red. The event was beautifully catered by La Casella in Ocala, and the decorations were meticulously arranged by the American Heart Association event team.

The executive leadership team, cochaired by Srisha Rao and Nilam Patel, and the circle of red, co-chaired by Dr. Manal Fakhoury and Jane Moerlie, played pivotal roles in organizing the event. Highlights included a wine pull contest and a program featuring a panel of medical professionals who engaged in Q & A session on heart health signs and prevention strategies.

A silent auction added excitement, with notable items such as a gourmet dinner for eight donated by Chef Nine, which sold for $2,000 and a spa day from Nirvana Medical Spa, fetching $1,100. The luncheon successfully raised over $100,000 which will be reinvested into the community for food security initiative, CPR kits and training for local schools.

Mark your calendars for next year’s event tentatively scheduled for Friday, April 10, 2026. Save the date and join them in continuing the fight against cardiovascular disease. For more information or to make a donation, please contact Jennifer Gilman: jennifer.gilman@heart.org.

STORY + PHOTOGRAPHY BY RONALD W. WETHERINGTON, SOCIETY EDITOR

Jennifer Gilman, Nilam Patel and Stacy Warrick

Ruth Vilez and Jackie Gutierrez

Manal Fakhoury and Jessi Miller

Hannah Rai, Breidgett Anderson, Ruth Nazario, and Kim Simmons

Nicole Eury, Sally Bene, Sandra Reddick, Marie Guzmeli and Lizbeth Ordonez

Ryan Menton, Michelle Smith and Sandra Reddick

Nilam Patel and Srisha Rao

Lenna Russo, Danielle Marciano and Tasha Osborne

Louisa Barton

Jennifer Neiford, Alicia Costa and Emma Costa

Kelly Bowman, JoAnn Semler and Marjorie Perez

Lakeside Vocational Center

PHOTOS BY ZOEE ZARILLO

Hands of Mercy Everywhere celebrated the grand opening of its HOME Prep Vocational Center at the LSF Lakeside Learning Center with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. The event highlighted the center’s mission to empower individuals through practical training programs in hospitality, culinary arts, certified nursing assistant (CNA), daycare, GED preparation, mortuary services, and cosmetology.

Jessica McClain and Tina St. Germain Robb Harrison, Nancy Johnson and Tony Park

Tara and Carlos Tobon

Kenny Adamic and Anthony White

Jennifer Van Pelt and Jerry Pascale

Antionette Jarrett and Wendy Harp

Transitions Life Center

Groundbreaking

Transitions Life Center (TLC), an organization dedicated to serving individuals with disabilities, held a groundbreaking ceremony in May to celebrate the start of a $1.8 million expansion at its Ocala campus. The new 6,000-square-foot facility, led by Benmar Construction, will include a sensory room, functional room, two instructional studios, and a fully equipped teaching kitchen—enhancing TLC’s mission to provide meaningful, hands-on learning experiences for its participants.

PHOTOS BY JOSHUA JACOBS

MJ Amaro, Ashley Gerds and Meredith Batson Tom James, Jess Schultz, Natasha Dobkowski and Jennifer Martinez

Matt McClain and Cicc Ferrentino

Kristy Clark, Jean Paglia, and Diane Carrizzo

Groundbreaking commences

Sip•Sit•Support | 2025•Episode 3

The 2025 Couch Sessions Musician and Artist Series is held at four locations and has a different pairing of artist and musician for each date. Seating is limited at these intimate shows. Here's a preview for "Episode 2."

WHAT: Couch Sessions 2025 Season 8, Episode 3

WHERE: Hudson’s Furniture 3402 SW 36th Terr., Ocala

WHEN: July 11, 2025 7-9:00 p.m.

Rod Acosta

MEDIUM:

I usually work with oil paintings on wood boards, often adding objects to my boards to create 3D effects. I also love to work on steel or other metals; I like to create abstract welded steel sculptures with sci- fi or otherworldly vibes.

WHAT ROLE DOES THE ARTIST HAVE IN SOCIETY?

The way I understand "ART" is as a visual vehicle to bring awareness or inspiration on unusual topics rarely discussed or exposed; also as a proposition of clever alternatives to the mainstream visual media.

EXPLAIN YOUR ART:

My art is not your typical, is somewhat eclectic as my interest or need to express dictaminates. I could be inspired by the abandoned, ignored and taken over by nature, inspired with the rusty and weathered down. I like to accentuate what is usually never seen as beauty. My topics range from objects, people, odd compositions or just an atmospheric presence. I start from a dark background and paint with my oils to later scratch drawings with a sharp instrument bringing lines of that dark background back to the surface.I dwell in extreme contrast, heavy texture and light when choosing my tones and shades.

HOW CAN PEOPLE FIND YOU AND YOUR WORK?

My work can be found on Instagram Rod Rowen@ instagram.Facebook (Rod Acosta) as well as local galleries when my art is exhibited.

NOTES: BYOB, BYOF

INFO + TICKETS: couchsessionsocala.com Passports or single tickets available.

GENRE: RnB / Indie / Soul

WHAT ROLE DOES THE ARTIST HAVE IN SOCIETY?

I think an artists roll in society is to bring emotion and perspective. Art gives people an emotional outlet and with that, you can draw people in that it speaks to, and open eyes to show your story and relate to people. Art brings people together.

EXPLAIN YOUR MUSIC AND ART:

My music comes from the heart and some of my deepest feelings. Its personal and raw. My art is mostly influenced by nature.

HOW CAN PEOPLE FIND YOU AND YOUR WORK?

Gemini.Art — Instagram: @mindfulgemini_art Facebook: Gemini.Art

R.J. Jenkins with Wesley, the Marion Therapeutic Riding Association’s 2022 Horse of the Year at the 2025 “Kiss the Horse” fundraiser for the Marion County Literacy Council

Photo:

Reading With Horses

BY LOUISA BARTON

With access to technology all around them, the younger generation seems to spend less and less time outdoors and more time with technology and on their devices. In a world where owning a horse or horses is more expensive than ever, having opportunities to be around horses are becoming fewer and fewer.

Gentle Carousel Miniature Therapy Horses, a wonderful 501(c)(3) organization, has been improving the lives of all generations for 28 years with visits to hospitals, disaster scenes, rehabilitation centers and more to provide comfort and peace in difficult situations.

Through a partnership between the Ocala Metro Chamber and Economic Partnership and the Marion County School Board, Gentle Carousel Miniature Therapy Horses also visits all of our elementary schools with their miniature therapy horses throughout the school year. They take a book with them each time, read

it out loud to the children, encouraging participation and then the actual character from the book steps out from behind the brightly colored horse van and the children get to meet the character from the book.

With the slightly older elementary students, there is discussion about equine-related careers, too, highlighting what we refer to as “from mucking to media,” sharing all the opportunities there are to work with horses.

What could be better than this? Each book contains an important life lesson or message. One of the books reminds us to be kind to one

another and another book and theme speaks of the differences between one another not preventing friendships.

Magic, the hero horse, as she is known, is one of the 23 miniature horses who live a natural life on the farm with owners Debbie and Jorge Garcia-Bengochea. Magic is the only living animal who is in the top 10 most heroic animals in the history of the world and she is also an offi-

cial Ocala Police Department horse officer. The book that is read when Magic visits is all about the importance of respecting law enforcement and what to do in the case of an emergency, while also emphasizing the importance of all of our first responders. Magic is a favorite with all ages, but each horse is meticulously groomed and each is trained over a two-year period to be more than well-prepared for every assignment.

During the summer months, when young children are out of school, reading skills and time spent reading books usually diminishes. Over the past few years, this has been well remedied in downtown Ocala by a wonderful “Reading with Horses” program. Yet again, Gentle Carousel Miniature Therapy Horses selflessly transport a miniature horse each week from the farm, and Debbie Garcia reads a book and then the character from the book steps out of the horse van and the children and adults can meet the horse.

Every child who attends receives a book each week to take home with them. Each week has a slightly different theme, and all are welcome. Some weeks, careers in the equine industry are highlighted. This event is always a very positive experience and all ages

are welcome to attend this free program. So, what will be different this year? The Marion Theatre, an iconic movie theater located in downtown Ocala just minutes from the prior location at the Downtown Market, has offered to be involved and provide a wonderful climate-controlled facility for

this event to continue this summer. We are all excited, as we will be able to enjoy this program inside and, of course, all the miniature therapy horses are trained to be indoors. All are potty trained and quite used to being inside buildings, up and down stairs and they can even ride in elevators.

We hope you will join us this summer on Thursdays at 2 p.m. at the Marion Theatre, and if you would like to sponsor one of the weeks and support this wonderful program, I believe there are a few weeks left available to support. The exposure at the theater on the big movie screen will be a great return on investment. However, the greater return is the expression on the faces of those who attend and also the lifelong benefit of younger generations meeting horses, learning about the equine industry and encouraging them all to read all summer long.

Please come and join us for this program and support this work and labor of love, if you can.

is the Equine Initiative Director at the

Metro Chamber and Economic Partnership, Realtor at Black

Real Estate, and host of the Horse Talk Show on the Sky 97.3, Audacy.com and Equus Television.

Louisa Barton

Ocala

Horse

Gluten-free baking is having a moment

COURTESY OF BRANDPOINT

Consumers are increasingly choosing easy, convenient foods to support their active, busy lifestyles. This trend includes ready-to-bake treats such as brownies and cookies, but with alternative ingredients like those found in Ghirardelli’s new Gluten Free Double Chocolate Brownie Mix. That’s right, gluten free isn’t just for people with food allergies anymore, it’s the choice of ingredient-savvy consumers as well as those with gluten sensitivities. In fact, current research shows the U.S. market for gluten-free foods is among the largest in the world. That’s why gluten-free baking is having a moment.

GLUTEN FREE AS A LIFESTYLE CHOICE

Nearly a third of consumers currently follow a gluten-free diet or have done so in the past. Grocery stores are paying attention, dedicating shelf space and expanding product selections to please the palates of this growing demographic. It’s easier than ever to bring home ready-to-eat and easy-to-make gluten-free goodies.

A gluten-free lifestyle encourages experimentation in the kitchen and introduces new flavors and textures. Gluten-free bakers are discovering that mixing and matching alternative flours, such as rice flour, creates blends that rival the original texture of wheat flour. Use almond flour in your banana bread for an extra-nutty kick. Or swap in oat flour to make pancakes that are thick and sweet. Explore different ingredients that suit your taste. Today’s gluten-free baked goods are innovative and indulgent.

THE GLUTEN-FREE BANDWAGON

Cookie connoisseurs and brownie-baking enthusiasts are benefitting from the evolution of gluten-free baking at bakeries and restaurants, as well as in their own kitchens. In fact, the term “gluten free” has grown 39% on menus over the past four years, making it more accessible than ever. Gluten-free treats are now readily available for people who want to have their desserts and eat them, too. American consumers are increasingly aware of gluten intolerance and the benefits of clean eating. This heightened awareness is driving growth of allergen-free items on

grocery shelves. From bread and pasta to baking mixes, whole aisles of gluten-free products are now available.

Meanwhile, Americans also consume 2.8 billion pounds of chocolate each year, according to Jobera. And now you don’t have to choose between chocolate goodness and living your best life, regardless of your dietary preferences.

So, why not feed your chocolate craving, for example, with Ghirardelli’s Gluten Free Double Chocolate Brownie Mix, which combines premium semi-sweet and bittersweet chocolate chips, plus a unique blend of cocoa powders and a hint of vanilla to create the signature Ghirardelli flavor profile. Instead of wheat flour, the gluten-free recipe uses brown rice flour. It’s the same delicious taste as the original Double Chocolate Brownie Mix, but now available to more consumers than ever before. An 18-ounce brownie pouch mixed with butter, water, oil and an egg yields an 8-by-8-inch pan of rich, fudgy, gluten-free brownie bliss.

When it comes to gluten-free baking, the possibilities are deliciously limitless!

Gluten-Free Grains & Flours

Gluten-free baking starts with the right grains. Here are some naturally gluten-free options that can be ground into flours or used whole in a variety of recipes:

• Amaranth – Nutty and earthy; great in flatbreads and porridge.

• Buckwheat – Despite the name, it’s gluten-free and ideal for pancakes and noodles.

• Corn – Use as cornmeal, masa harina, or corn flour in savory and sweet dishes.

• Millet – Mild and fluffy; perfect

for quick breads and muffins.

• Oats – Be sure to use certified gluten-free oats to avoid cross-contact.

• Quinoa – High in protein and mildly nutty; use whole or as flour.

• Rice – A staple in gluten-free baking; comes in white, brown, or sweet rice flour.

• Sorghum – Slightly sweet; great for structure and nutrition in baked goods.

• Teff – Tiny but nutrient-packed; commonly used in Ethiopian injera and dense breads.

Source: Gluten Intolerance Group

EACH MONTH, OCALA MAGAZINE FEATURES A LOCAL ORGANIZATION FROM OUR CHARITY REGISTER

Literacy Council

Increasing literacy through community relationships

ORGANIZATION NAME: MARION COUNTY LITERACY

COUNCIL

LEADERSHIP:

• Chris Cervellera, president of the board of directors

• Yamila Acosta, executive director

LOCATION:

120 SW 5th St., Ocala, FL 34471

MISSION STATEMENT:

The Marion County Literacy Council is a non-profit organization focused on making sure all adult citizens in Marion County have access to the resources available to help them improve their lives by improving their literacy skills.

WHAT WE DO:

The Marion County Literacy Council helps adults in Ocala and Marion County learn to read and write, earn their GED and become more capable, more competent speakers of the

English language. Also, the council works with English-speaking students who lack reading and writing skills to succeed in the workplace. The council also works with students on financial literacy and computer literacy.

HOW YOU CAN GIVE OF YOUR TIME AND TREASURE:

For those wishing to make a monetary contribution, contact R.J. Jenkins through the council office at (352) 690-7323.

The Literacy Council also offers the majority of its services through a volunteer teaching corps. It doesn’t place its students in a classroom but rather in “a relationship with a member of our community.” So, volunteerism is a huge part of the way the Literacy Council operates and volunteers are always needed.

THE LITERACY COUNCIL SERVES BETWEEN 400 and 500 adults EACH YEAR IN SOME CAPACITY. THE ORGANIZATION’S BUDGET IS BETWEEN $250,000 and $300,000 A YEAR.

2025 Kiss the Horse fundraiser participants — Leo Valdivieso-Torres, Dan Eckhard, Rob Batsel, Jessi Miller and Derek Batsel

state of the city

Building community, one park at a time

BY GREGORY DAVIS

Every July, communities across the country celebrate Recreation and Parks Month, and here in Ocala, there’s plenty to celebrate. This year’s national theme, “Build Together, Play Together,” is a perfect fit for the mission of the City of Ocala’s Recreation and Parks Department: to strengthen our city by creating spaces and programs that promote health, inclusion and connection.

Together, we’re building and preserving sustainable parks and green spaces. Ocala recently opened its 48th city park, Imagine North Magnolia Park, a beautiful new space for families to explore and enjoy. Later this year, the city’s popular Skate Park will undergo an exciting expansion to better serve skaters of all ages and skill levels. In addition, “Leave it Better” park clean-up days are hosted throughout the year, giving volunteers a chance to help preserve the beauty and health of our shared spaces.

Together, we’re building thriving communities focused on health and well-being. From kids to seniors, the department offers programs that encourage healthy, active lifestyles. Signature offerings include Workout with the Mayor, Youth Summer Fitness, therapeutic sports and Senior Softball. Residents can also take part in wellness education, cooking classes and even grow their own food in the community garden.

Together, we’re building inclusive programs and spaces for everyone. Ocala is proud to provide a wide variety of senior programs, including the Annual Fishing Derby, bus trips and social events like bingo, Mah Jong and cooking classes. Our therapeutic recreation offerings also support individuals with special needs through adaptive sports, swim

lessons and inclusive activities designed to build confidence and community.

Together, we help people play and connect. Events like Party in the Parks and Fun

in the Sun Outdoor Adventures are hosted by outreach teams to bring neighbors together in celebration of the outdoors. These events not only offer fun experiences, they also build friendships and create lasting memories.

For more information about our Recreation and Parks Department and all the programs offered, call 352-268-5517 or visit www.ocalafl.gov/recpark.

Through recreation and parks, we are bringing our city together, creating opportunities to connect, grow and thrive. It is how we make Ocala a better place to live, today and for generations to come.

It’s Park and Recreation Month –get out and play

BY MARK ANDERSON

During the month of July, the National Recreation and Park Association celebrates Park and Recreation Month, highlighting the work park and recreation organizations around the country do to enrich their communities.

First launched in 1985, Park and Recreation Month celebrates its 40th anniversary in 2025, and this year’s theme is “Build Together, Play Together.”

Here in Marion County, July is a month full of programs and events at parks throughout the county, and the Marion County Commission also recognizes the month at the first board meeting in July.

For the county Parks & Recreation team, July is a flurry of activity for staff and volunteers alike.

“Parks and Recreation Month is our largest outreach campaign, allowing us to connect with our citizens and share our department’s story,” said Marion County Parks & Recreation Director Jim Couillard. “The work our team does is vital in our community, and this month, we encourage everyone to reflect on how Parks & Recreation staff, facilities and programs create a Marion County where our citizens want to build together and play together.”

Speaking of playing together, July (and August) are full of programs and summer camps for kids of all ages. Firewise Summer Camp invites kids ages 6-9 on trips to amusement parks around Central Florida, Brick City Adventure Camp offers more trips for kids ages 10-13, while the Brick City Explorers Camp takes in local wildlife and nature at many of the state parks

throughout Central Florida.

These are just a few of the camps and activities offered by Marion County Parks & Recreation this summer. For a full list and links to register, please visit Parks.MarionFL.org or follow “Marion County Parks &

Recreation” on Facebook and Instagram for more information.

With 3,000 acres of parks in Marion County and more than 2.5 million annual park visitors, July is a great time to get out and enjoy our county’s natural beauty!

Photos courtesy of Marion County

Brick City Adventure Park

Coehadjoe Park

Birthdays, Chocolate, and Sharks, oh my!

BY MADISON GLASSMAN

This month is all about July! We will be talking about the Fourth of July, my birthday, World Chocolate Day, and Shark Awareness Day.

Let’s start with the Fourth of July. This holiday celebrates the adoption of the Declaration of Inde pendence. It marks the separation of the 13 Ameri can colonies from Great Britain. This holiday is also called Independence Day.

Fun fact about the Fourth of July: We didn’t actually declare independence on July 4. It was on July 2, but we say July 4 because that’s the day the public found out. I hope everyone enjoys their Independence Day!

Now let’s talk about my birthday! My birthday is on July 29, and I’m turning 14. We always go on a summer trip in the month of July, and one of the last few days is my birthday. So we spend my birthday wherever we are. I haven’t really decided what I want to do, but every year we find a special allergy-friendly bakery in the area that makes me a special cake. Whatever I do, I know it’s going to be fun.

Now let’s jump to World Chocolate Day. World Chocolate Day is on July 7 and celebrates the introduction of chocolate to Europe in 1550. The first ever World Chocolate Day was celebrated in 2009. It’s a day to appreciate chocolate in all its forms, and the history behind it. So on World Chocolate Day, treat yourself to a little sweet treat of rich and classic chocolate. Last but not least, let’s get into Shark Awareness Day. Shark Awareness Day is on July 14 and brings attention to how important sharks are to the marine

ecosystem and helps stop the negative myths about them. Honestly, sharks are my biggest fear, but there are big misconceptions about them and no animal de- serves to have negativity. In honor of Shark Awareness, I’m going to give you five fun facts about sharks!

Fact 1: Did you know that coconuts are more dan- gerous than sharks? The number of injuries from coconuts that fall from trees cause more serious injuries and deaths than shark attacks.

Fact 2: Did you know that sharks can’t get cavities?

Fact 3: Did you know that sharks lose more than 30,000 teeth in a lifetime?

Fact 4: Did you know that shark skin feels like sandpaper?

Fact 5: Did you know that scientists age sharks by counting the rings on their vertebrae?

I hope you enjoyed this month’s Kids Corner. See you next month!

Based on a special interest rate available on a FHA 30-Year fixed rate mortgage with DHI Mortgage. On certain D.R. Horton inventory homes

Based on a special interest rate available on a FHA 30-Year fixed rate mortgage with DHI Mortgage. On certain D.R. Horton inventory homes that contract on or after 4/14/25 and close on or before 5/31/25.

No HOA or CDD fees!

Quartz countertops throughout

Stainless-steel appliances

Smart home technology**

for illustration purposes only and will vary from the homes as built. Images are of the model home and include custom design features not available in other homes. Furnishings and decorative items are not included with home purchase. Home and community information, including pricing, included features, terms, availability, and amenities are subject to change at any time without notice or obligation. Prices shown are base home prices and do not include closing costs and fees, lot premiums, options, upgrades, modifications to plans and custom features which may substantially affect the final cost of the home. Appliances include washer, dryer, refrigerator, microwave, dishwasher & range. Appliance make and model may vary due to supply availability. Offer is valid for new contracts for D.R. Horton homes in Florida in the Citrus County Spot Lots community that are executed between 4/14/25 and 5/31/25 and close per the contract guidelines. Offer subject to change without notice. Financing offered by DHI Mortgage Company, Ltd. (DHIM) 3300 SW 34th Ave Ste 101B, Ocala, FL 34474. Branch NMLS #1894497. Company NMLS #14622. DHIM is an affiliate of D.R. Horton homes. For more information about DHIM Licensing and its affiliation with D.R. Horton, please visit http://www.dhimortgage.com/affiliate. D.R. Horton has locked-in, through DHIM, a fixed interest rate for a pool of funds. Rates only available until pool of funds is depleted or rate expires. INTEREST RATE OFFERED APPLIES ONLY TO the D.R. Horton family of brand properties purchased as borrower’s principal residence. Not all borrowers will qualify for said rate. Rate is not applicable for all credit profiles and may require borrower to pay points to obtain the advertised rate. Restrictions apply. Buyer is not required to finance through DHIM to purchase a home; however, buyer must use DHIM to receive the advertised rate. Additional closing costs will apply. May not be able to be combined with other available D.R. Horton offers or discounts. Property restrictions apply. All terms and conditions subject to credit approval, market conditions, and availability. *Payment based on FHA 30year fixed rate mortgage with purchase price of $274,990 loan amount of $270,009 an interest rate of 4.99% and an APR of 5.843%, and an upfront mortgage insurance premium of 1.75% and a monthly payment of $1,861. Total monthly payment includes principal, interest and estimated taxes, homeowners insurance & mortgage insurance. Purchase requires a down payment of 3.5%. Additional closing costs will apply. Payment based on D.R. Horton West Central Florida Citrus County Spot Lots community located at 1654 W Gainsboro Lane, Citrus Springs, Florida, 34434 . Please contact your mortgage loan originator for complete eligibility requirements. **A D.R. Horton Smart Home is equipped with technology that includes some or all of the following internet-connected devices: a video doorbell, programmable thermostat; a door lock; a smart light switch; a touchscreen smart home control device; home security devices such as door and window contacts and motion detectors; a garage door opener; and a smart speaker, all of which are integrated by an automation platform hosted by Alarm.com. Other Smart Home technology features may be offered for an additional charge. For Smart Home technology included in the home to work, homeowners and tenants must obtain and pay for their own Internet service and may need to purchase compatible devices and maintain accounts with third parties for the services. D.R. Horton makes no representation or warrant that any or all of the Smart Home technology is secure, will meet any homeowner needs or will provide any level of physical or cyber security for the home or otherwise - even if the technology is working as intended. Contact a sales representative for a list of available homes. APR=Annual Percentage Rate. HOA = Home Owner’s Association. FHA = Federal Housing Administration. CDD = Community Development District. Builder. Contractor License #CRC07592. Equal Housing Opportunity. Rev. 4/16/25. Expires on the close by date listed above. © D.R. Horton, Inc. 2025. All rights reserved.

D.R. Horton is an equal housing opportunity builder. Pictures, artist renderings, photographs, colors, features, and sizes are for illustration purposes only and will vary from the homes as built. Images are of the model home and include custom design features not available in other homes. Furnishings and decorative items are not included with home purchase. Home and community information, including pricing, included features, terms, availability, and amenities are subject to change at any time without notice or obligation. Prices shown are base home prices and do not include closing costs and fees, lot premiums, options, upgrades, modifications to plans and custom features which may substantially affect the final cost of the home. Appliances include washer, dryer, refrigerator, microwave, dishwasher & range. Appliance make and model may vary due to supply availability. Offer is valid for new contracts for D.R. Horton homes in Florida in the Citrus County Spot Lots community that are executed between 4/14/25 and 5/31/25 and close per the contract guidelines. Offer subject to change without notice. Financing offered by DHI Mortgage Company, Ltd. (DHIM) 3300 SW 34th Ave Ste 101B, Ocala, FL 34474. Branch NMLS #1894497. Company NMLS #14622. DHIM is an affiliate of D.R. Horton homes. For more information about DHIM Licensing and its affiliation with D.R. Horton, please visit http://www.dhimortgage.com/affiliate. D.R. Horton has locked-in, through DHIM, a fixed interest rate for a pool of funds. Rates only available until pool of funds is depleted or rate expires. INTEREST RATE OFFERED APPLIES ONLY TO the D.R. Horton family of brand properties purchased as borrower’s principal residence. Not all borrowers will qualify for said rate. Rate is not applicable for all credit profiles and may require borrower to pay points to obtain the advertised rate. Restrictions apply. Buyer is not required to finance through DHIM to purchase a home; however, buyer must use DHIM to receive the advertised rate. Additional closing costs will apply. May not be able to be combined with other available D.R. Horton offers or discounts. Property restrictions apply. All terms and conditions subject to credit approval, market conditions, and availability. *Payment based on FHA 30year fixed rate mortgage with purchase price of $274,990 loan amount of $270,009 an interest rate of 4.99% and an APR of 5.843%, and an upfront mortgage insurance premium of 1.75% and a monthly payment of $1,861. Total monthly payment includes principal, interest and estimated taxes, homeowners insurance & mortgage insurance. Purchase requires a down payment of 3.5%. Additional closing costs will apply. Payment based on D.R. Horton West Central Florida Citrus County Spot Lots community located at 1654 W Gainsboro Lane, Citrus Springs, Florida, 34434 . Please contact your mortgage loan originator for complete eligibility requirements. **A D.R. Horton Smart Home is equipped with technology that includes some or all of the following internet-connected devices: a video doorbell, programmable thermostat; a door lock; a smart light switch; a touchscreen smart home control device; home security devices such as door and window contacts and motion detectors; a garage door opener; and a smart speaker, all of which are integrated by an automation platform hosted by Alarm.com. Other Smart Home technology features may be offered for an additional charge. For Smart Home technology included in the home to work, homeowners and tenants must obtain and pay for their own Internet service and may need to purchase compatible devices and maintain accounts with third parties for the services. D.R. Horton makes no representation or warrant that any or all of the Smart Home technology is secure, will meet any homeowner needs or will provide any level of physical or cyber security for the home or otherwise - even if the technology is working as intended. Contact a sales representative for a list of available homes. APR=Annual Percentage Rate. HOA = Home Owner’s Association. FHA = Federal Housing Administration. CDD = Community Development District. Builder. Contractor License #CRC07592. Equal Housing Opportunity. Rev. 4/16/25. Expires on the close by date listed above. © D.R. Horton, Inc. 2025. All rights reserved.

D.R. Horton is an equal housing opportunity builder. Pictures, artist renderings, photographs, colors, features, and sizes are for illustration purposes only and will vary from the homes as built. Images are of the model home and include custom design features not available in other homes. Furnishings and decorative items are not included with home purchase. Home and community information, including pricing, included features, terms, availability, and amenities are subject to change at any time without notice or obligation. Prices shown are base home prices and do not include closing costs and fees, lot premiums, options, upgrades, modifications to plans and custom features which may substantially affect the final cost of the home. Appliances include washer, dryer, refrigerator, microwave, dishwasher & range. Appliance make and model may vary due to supply availability. Offer is valid for new contracts for D.R. Horton homes in Florida in the Citrus County Spot Lots community that are executed between 4/14/25 and 5/31/25 and close per the contract guidelines. Offer subject to change without notice. Financing offered by DHI Mortgage Company, Ltd. (DHIM) 3300 SW 34th Ave Ste 101B, Ocala, FL 34474. Branch NMLS #1894497. Company NMLS #14622. DHIM is an affiliate of D.R. Horton homes. For more information about DHIM Licensing and its affiliation with D.R. Horton, please visit http://www.dhimortgage.com/affiliate. D.R. Horton has locked-in, through DHIM, a fixed interest rate for a pool of funds. Rates only available until pool of funds is depleted or rate expires. INTEREST RATE OFFERED APPLIES ONLY TO the D.R. Horton family of brand properties purchased as borrower’s principal residence. Not all borrowers will qualify for said rate. Rate is not applicable for all credit profiles and may require borrower to pay points to obtain the advertised rate. Restrictions apply. Buyer is not required to finance through DHIM to purchase a home; however, buyer must use DHIM to receive the advertised rate. Additional closing costs will apply. May not be able to be combined with other available D.R. Horton offers or discounts. Property restrictions apply. All terms and conditions subject to credit approval, market conditions, and availability. *Payment based on FHA 30year fixed rate mortgage with purchase price of $274,990 loan amount of $270,009 an interest rate of 4.99% and an APR of 5.843%, and an upfront mortgage insurance premium of 1.75% and a monthly payment of $1,861. Total monthly payment includes principal, interest and estimated taxes, homeowners insurance & mortgage insurance. Purchase requires a down payment of 3.5%. Additional closing costs will apply. Payment based on D.R. Horton West Central Florida Citrus County Spot Lots community located at 1654 W Gainsboro Lane, Citrus Springs, Florida, 34434 . Please contact your mortgage loan originator for complete eligibility requirements. **A D.R. Horton Smart Home is equipped with technology that includes some or all of the following internet-connected devices: a video doorbell, programmable thermostat; a door lock; a smart light switch; a touchscreen smart home control device; home security devices such as door and window contacts and motion detectors; a garage door opener; and a smart speaker, all of which are integrated by an automation platform hosted by Alarm.com. Other Smart Home technology features may be offered for an additional charge. For Smart Home technology included in the home to work, homeowners and tenants must obtain and pay for their own Internet service and may need to purchase compatible devices and maintain accounts with third parties for the services. D.R. Horton makes no representation or warrant that any or all of the Smart Home technology is secure, will meet any homeowner needs or will provide any level of physical or cyber security for the home or otherwise - even if the technology is working as intended. Contact a sales representative for a list of available homes. APR=Annual Percentage Rate. HOA = Home Owner’s Association. FHA = Federal Housing Administration. CDD = Community Development District. Builder. Contractor License #CRC07592. Equal Housing Opportunity. Rev. 4/16/25. Expires on the close by date listed above. © D.R. Horton, Inc. 2025. All rights reserved.

D.R. Horton is an equal housing opportunity builder. Pictures, artist renderings, photographs, colors, features, and sizes are for illustration purposes only and will vary from the homes as built. Images are of the model home and include custom design features not available in other homes. Furnishings and decorative items are not included with home purchase. Home and community information, including pricing, included features, terms, availability, and amenities are subject to change at any time without notice or obligation. Prices shown are base home prices and do not include closing costs and fees, lot premiums, options, upgrades, modifications to plans and custom features which may substantially affect the final cost of the home. Appliances include washer, dryer, refrigerator, microwave, dishwasher & range. Appliance make and model may vary due to supply availability. Offer is valid for new contracts for D.R. Horton homes in Florida in the Citrus County Spot Lots community that are executed between 4/14/25 and 5/31/25 and close per the contract guidelines. Offer subject to change without notice. Financing offered by DHI Mortgage Company, Ltd. (DHIM) 3300 SW 34th Ave Ste 101B, Ocala, FL 34474. Branch NMLS #1894497. Company NMLS #14622. DHIM is an affiliate of D.R. Horton homes. For more information about DHIM Licensing and its affiliation with D.R. Horton, please visit http://www.dhimortgage.com/affiliate. D.R. Horton has locked-in, through DHIM, a fixed interest rate for a pool of funds. Rates only available until pool of funds is depleted or rate expires. INTEREST RATE OFFERED APPLIES ONLY TO the D.R. Horton family of brand properties purchased as borrower’s principal residence. Not all borrowers will qualify for said rate. Rate is not applicable for all credit profiles and may require borrower to pay points to obtain the advertised rate. Restrictions apply. Buyer is not required to finance through DHIM to purchase a home; however, buyer must use DHIM to receive the advertised rate. Additional closing costs will apply. May not be able to be combined with other available D.R. Horton offers or discounts. Property restrictions apply. All terms and conditions subject to credit approval, market conditions, and availability. *Payment based on FHA 30year fixed rate mortgage with purchase price of $274,990 loan amount of $270,009 an interest rate of 4.99% and an APR of 5.843%, and an upfront mortgage insurance premium of 1.75% and a monthly payment of $1,861. Total monthly payment includes principal, interest and estimated taxes, homeowners insurance & mortgage i will apply. Payment based on D.R. Horton West Central Florida Citrus County Spot Lots community located at 1654 W Gainsboro Lane, Citrus Springs, Florida, 34434 . Please contact your mortgage loan originator for complete eligibility requirements. **A D.R. Horton Smart Home is equipped with technology that includes some or a thermostat; a door lock; a smart light switch; a touchscreen smart home control device; home security devices such as door and window contacts and motion detectors; a garage door opener; and a smart speaker, all of which are integrated by an automation platform hosted by Alarm.com. Other Smart Home technology features may b the home to work, homeowners and tenants must obtain and pay for their own Internet service and may need to purchase compatible devices and maintain accounts with third parties for the services. D.R. Horton makes no representation or warrant that any or all of the Smart Home technology is secure, will meet any homeowner needs o otherwise - even if the technology is working as intended. Contact a sales representative for a list of available homes. APR=Annual Percentage Rate. HOA = Home Owner’s Association. FHA = Federal Housing Administration. CDD = Community Development District. Builder. Contractor License #CRC07592. Equal Housing Opportunity.

4/16/25. E Horton, Inc. 2025. All rights reserved.

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