Ocala Magazine September 2026

$9.95 Ocala’s City Magazine Since 1980 Serving the Horse Capital of the World®

Food & Drink THE

OCALA MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2026

ISSUE

Featuring: Florida Friendly

Foodscaping and Tastes of the Town

Just Listed

EXTRAORDINARY ACRE STUNNING 109.29+/- ACRES59.86± ON NW HWY 225 ESTATE IN SHELL POND

8410 NE 155th Ave, Williston 32696 — A scenic drive leads to this custom-built home featuring a 12-foot wraparound

porch that invites relaxation with stunning views of grand oaks and rolling pastures. Inside, the layout includes spacious living and dining areas and a country kitchen with custom cabinetry, stone countertops, and an oversized island. The home has three bedrooms and three bathrooms, highlighted by 37 energy-efficient windows offering beautiful vistas. The estate is equipped for agriculture, with improved pastures, a large chicken coop, and areas for in-ground gardens. There’s also a 54’ x 40’ workshop/garage with a bunk room and a 26’ x 48’ pole barn for storage and entertaining, complete with an outdoor kitchen area. Whether for farming, equestrian pursuits, or a peaceful retreat, this property offers a rare lifestyle in the heart of nature.

Experience the beauty and privacy of the gated community of Shell Pond and envision your dream country. $1,990,000

5.56± ACRES IN SADDLE HILL

STUNNING 14± ACRES IN HORSE COUNTRY

8465 NW 186th St, Reddick 32686 — $499,500

13460 NW Gainesville Rd, Reddick 32686 — $665,000

• 3 BR / 2 BA • 1,728± SF • No HOA! • Perimeter Fenced • Located between Ocala and Gainesville • Spacious enclosed lanai plus shed/workshop • Privacy, mature trees, and proximity to equestrian centers

• Build your dream farm on this 14± acres • Approximately 940± feet of road frontage • Mature trees and lush green pastures • Close to top Equestrian Ventures and WEC • Located between Ocala and Gainesville

Just Listed

PERFECT BLEND OFON LUXURY, STUNNING 109.29+/ACRES NW HWY 225 COMFORT AND COUNTRY LIVING

10140 CR 209, Oxford 34484 — The beautifully designed 3BR, 2BA custom home welcomes you with farmhouse-inspired

architecture, a welcoming front porch, and professionally landscaped grounds. Open-concept floor plan filled with natural light showcases soaring tray ceilings, custom millwork. At the heart of the home is a chef ’s dream kitchen featuring custom cabinetry, quartz countertops, a large center island, and a walk-in pantry. Outside, the covered lanai overlooks a sparkling resort-style saltwater pool with a sun shelf, tranquil waterfall feature, and expansive paver deck. The impressive detached metal building offers oversized roll-up doors, covered equipment storage, and ample workspace, easily accommodating RVs, boats, tractors, and all your toys. There is also an additional storage building. Fenced pasture areas allow plenty of room for horses or cattle.

The chickens will love their quaint chicken coop with run-out areas. This remarkable property truly has it all. $1,499,000

SE FOR LEA

47±-ACRE STUNNINGBEAUTIFUL 109.29+/- ACRES ON NW HWY 225 EQUESTRIAN HOME AND BARN

12101 NW 200th St, Micanopy 32667 — A private country setting with expansive views. The spacious main residence

offers 3BR, 2BA plus office and comfortable living spaces designed to take full advantage of the beautiful farm views. The property is well equipped for the equestrian enthusiast with an 8-stall center-aisle concrete block barn featuring a tack room, wash area, laundry area, utility/wash sink, hay and equipment storage, and fenced paddocks with three-board fencing. The barn includes a comfortable 1-bedroom, 1-bath apartment with an open floor plan. Additional improvements include a storage/workshop building and garden shed, providing plenty of room for equipment, tools, and farm necessities. A rare opportunity to enjoy the privacy, beauty, and equestrian lifestyle. $10,000/mo

List with us today!

Equestrian Facilities LEASE BUY OR

THOROUGHBRED FACILITY — HALF OWNERSHIP OF 3/4± MILE RACE TRACK

19431 NE 17th Pl, Williston 32696 — Call for Pricing Options

• 47± Acres • 3 BR /2 BA Renovated Mobile Home • 4 Barns • 140 Stalls • Viewing Stand • Barn Office • Separate Office with Conference Room • 8 Round Pens • Wash Racks • Paddocks • Equipment Building • Tack, Break, Feed Rooms • Track is in a 2 Owner LLC • Purchase: Owner’s Home, Pool, Man Cave 31.65± ACRE TRAINING CENTER

6692 NW 150th Ave, Morriston 32668 — $2,500,000

• Shared Rights in ¾± Mile Track • 60 Stalls • Hot/Cold Wash Racks • Office/Apartment • Employee Lounge • Eurocizer • 8 Paddocks • 16 Turnouts • Close to HITS, OBS, and The World Equestrian Center • Suitable for hunters, eventers, thoroughbreds or any other breed of horses

13± ACRE TRAINING CENTER

2711 SW 125th Avenue, Ocala 34481 — $755,000

• Located at Nelson Jones Training Center • 24-Stall Barn • Tack room • Wash racks • 15 Paddocks • Fenced and cross-fenced • Additional 6 stalls in the paddocks • Beautiful building site • Close to OBS, The World Equestrian Center, and town conveniences

Considering Ocala?

ELEGANT ENTERTAINING IN225 STUNNING 109.29+/ACRES ON ESTATE NW HWY THE COUNTRY CLUB OF OCALA

7963 SE 12th Cir, Ocala 34480 — Nested on over two beautifully landscaped acres in the esteemed County Club of

Ocala, this exceptional residence features refined French Country interiors and remarkable architectural details. An impressive foyer leads to a sunlit living room and an open-concept layout with stunning golf course views and access to a spacious deck and sparkling pool. The chef ’s kitchen boasts custom cabinetry, granite countertops, and a large island that connects seamlessly to the family room. The family room is highlighted by a striking fireplace and vaulted ceilings. A versatile media room offers additional flexible space, while the luxurious owner’s suite includes an elegant bathroom and private laundry. Designed for indoor-outdoor living, the screened pool area provides ideal spaces for dining and relaxation. This property masterfully combines timeless elegance with comfort, making it a perfect setting for entertaining. $2,297,000

G PENDIN

CED! U D E R T JUS

LAKEFRONT ELEGANCE ON OVER 14.71± ACRES

TIMUCUAN ISLAND – LAKE WEIR

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

12230 SE Timucuan Rd, Summerfield 34491 — $549,900

• Zoned A-1 • 500± ft of private shoreline on Lake Fay • Remodeled main residence with stone fireplace, owner’s suite, and a screened pool with outdoor kitchen.

• Fenced grounds • Guest house and equipment barn • Just 20 minutes from The Villages

• 3 BR / 3.5 BA • 2,700 SF • Beautifully updated • Situated on two lots for added privacy • Includes boathouse and canal frontage • Perfect blend of comfort, style, and waterfront lifestyle

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

352-804-8989 | 352-547-6434 | joan@ joanpletcher.com Visit JoanPletcher.com for information, videos, and more choices.

Due to the privacy and at clients’ discretion, there are additional training centers, estates, and land available that are not advertised.

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

OCALASALES@WEC.NET | MEETATWEC.COM | 352.414.7850

play

64 Society: Year of the Fire Horse 66 Community: Public Information Office Named Government Team of the Year 68 Recipe: Food to Gather Around 72 Dining Out

COVER Fig and Goat Cheese Tart PHOTO Hannah Durham

68

etc

74 Everything Equine: Hoofbeats Through the Heart of Ocala 76 State of the City: Art and Music in the Heart of Ocala This Fall 78 State of the County: Meet (Some Of) The People Working For You

features

80 From the Library: Feast on Literature

26 Florida Friendly Foodscaping

82 Maddie’s Take: Settling In

32 MOMents to Remember

84 Destinations: Local Flavor Adventures

38 Community Harvest 46 Tastes of the Town 58 The Land Beneath the Hooves

departments

16 Letter from the Publisher 20 From the Mayor 22 Business Marketplace 86 Last Look

8 | SEPTEMBER 2026 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

58

KINDNESS, EMPATHY AND COMMUNITY

THE WEIDE AUTOMOTIVE EXPERIENCE

VETERAN OWNED AND OPERATED

H FULL SERVICE AUTO REPAIR H

• BATTERY REPLACEMENTS • TIRE CARE • AIR CONDITIONING • BRAKE SYSTEM REPAIR • DIESEL AND GAS ENGINE • HORSE TRAILERS • WHEEL ALIGNMENTS • TRANSMISSION SYSTEMS 822 NE 14th St., Ocala, FL 34470 | 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. M-F

352-888-2277 | weideautomotive.com We Accept Contactless Payments

OCALA’S MOST AWARDWINNING CITY MAGAZINE

CELEBRATING 45 YEARS

Philip Glassman, CCIM | Publisher philip@ocalamagazine.com

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

EDITORIAL

ART

CONTRIBUTORS

Sharon Raye | Editor

Em Agency | Design

Mark Anderson | Columnist

sharon@ocalamagazine.com

OM Staff | Digital Media

Ronald Wetherington | Society Editor ron@ocalamagazine.com

PHOTOGRAPHY

Louisa Barton | Equine Editor

Hannah Durham | Staff Photographer OPERATIONS

Kerrigan Adsit | Freelance Writer Sandra Barnidge | Freelance Writer Ryan Kirby | Columnist Madison Glassman | Columnist Mayor Ben Marciano | Columnist

Randy Woodruff, CPA | CFO randy@ocalamagazine.com

Ocala Magazine Wins Three 2026 Florida Magazine Association Awards!

EDITORIAL OR ADVERTISING INQUIRIES 352.622.2995 OCALAMAGAZINE.COM OFFICIAL MEDIA PARTNER | HOPS — Historic Ocala Preservation Society Media Partner | Live Oak International, Marion County Public Library, Reilly Arts Center, and the World Equestrian Center.

FOLLOW US ON OFFICE 743 E. Fort King St., Ocala, FL 34471 MAILING ADDRESS P.O. Box 4649, Ocala, FL 34478 PRESS RELEASES AND LETTERS TO THE EDITOR editor@ocalamagazine.com COPYRIGHT ALL contents copyrighted ©2026 by Ocala Magazine Publications. All rights reserved.

Reproduction or use of editorial or advertising content in any manner without written permission is strictly prohibited.

Horse Capital of the World® is a registered trademark of the Florida Thoroughbred Breeders’ & Owners’ Association.

10 | SEPTEMBER 2026 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

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

Penny Miller, VP/Corp. Development Penny has been with OM for over 20 years.

She’s authored five books, owns a media company and an insurance & financial business, and founded the Marion County Homeless Coalition. She was appointed Commissioner by four governors, served on the Barbara Bush Literacy Foundation Advisory Board, and led the College Park Kiwanis Club.

Her greatest joy is her four children and five grandchildren.

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

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

Em Agency, Design The Em team specializes in marketing, branding, and publication design. They are led by Jamie Mark, who served as the Creative Director of Ocala Magazine from 2005 to 2009 and the Editorial/Creative Director until 2011. Learn more at emagency.com.

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

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

Kerrigan Adsit, Freelance Writer Kerrigan, an Ocala native, mama to three, and author, has a heart for encouraging others through her writing. When she’s not writing, she can be found having dance parties with her littles, spending time outside with them, or devouring another theology book.

Sandra Barnidge, Freelance Writer Sandra is a freelance writer based in Gainesville. She covers science, arts, and culture for a range of publications. She’s also the author of The Diamondbacks, a novel about sports and religion in the South.

12 | SEPTEMBER 2026 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

Mayor Ben Marciano, Columnist Born in New York and raised in Ocala, Ben is the mayor of Ocala and co-owner of Zone Health and Fitness with his wife, Danielle.

A former executive director of the DeLuca YMCA, he holds an associate degree in criminal justice from the College of Central Florida. Ben and Danielle have three children and attend Blessed Trinity Catholic Church.

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

Ryan lives in Ocala with his wife, Aly, and their two daughters.

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

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

WE OFFER TOURS GO BEHIND THE SCENES OF YOUR WATER’S JOURNEY Have you ever wondered what happens after water goes down the drain or how nature helps keep our environment clean?

Join us for guided tours of the: Water Treatment Plant (WTP) The WTP performs a vital role in serving over 60,000 citizens and ensuring that safe drinking water is supplied 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Water Reclamation Facilities The City of Ocala collects, treats, and disposes of all the wastewater produced by its residents and visitors.

Ocala Wetland Recharge Park This man-made wetland ecosystem was constructed to improve water quality and boost regional groundwater supplies. The park sits on a 60-acre site and is home to educational exhibits, paved walking trails, and wildlife overlooks.

Sign Up for Your Water Tour Explore Ocala’s water systems, from treatment to wetlands.

Scan the QR Code to schedule your tour.

All requests must be submitted at least two weeks in advance.

352-351-6772

www.ocalafl.gov/waterresources

Ocala International Airport Ocala International Airport Ocala Aviation 352-861-7484 OcalaAviation.com

PRP Aviation Fly Dynasty Flight School Epic Flight Academy 352-517-7075 352-999-7529 1-866-FLY-EPIC PrpAviation.com (352) 629-8377FlyDynastyCorp.com | OcalaAirport.comEpicFlightAcademy.com

Ocala International Airport

Ocala Ocala International Airport International

Ocala Aviation 352-861-7484 OcalaAviation.com

PRP Aviation Epic Flight Academy Fly Dynasty Flight School 352-517-7075 352-999-7529 1-866-FLY-EPIC PrpAviation.com FlyDynastyCorp.com (352) 629-8377 | OcalaAirport.comEpicFlightAcademy.com

Ocala International Airport

Proav Charters 352-237-4030 www.proavcharters.com Proav Charters 352-237-4030 www.proavcharters.com

Ocala International Airport

(352) (352) 629-8377 629-8377 || OcalaAirport.com OcalaAirport.com

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | FEB 2026 |

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | FEB 2026 |

5 5

NOTE

from the publisher

A

A Moment to Reflect

s we come back from summer and settle into another school year, I’ve had an opportunity to look at our surroundings and count the many blessings we have as Americans, Floridians and, especially, as people who call Ocala and Marion County home.

I recently had one of those surreal moments when I took my daughter to orientation at Forest High School. I graduated from Forest in 1989, at the school’s former location, and now I was back with my daughter as she prepared to begin her own high school experience.

We walked the campus, followed her schedule from classroom to classroom and met each of her teachers.

I came away genuinely impressed by the quality of the teachers and the programs available to students today.

After meeting one of her teachers, I even joked that I wanted to take the class myself.

The experience made me stop and think about just how much education in Ocala and Marion County has evolved since I was a student and about the opportunities available to students today, including programs such as WCAT. It also made me think about Ocala Magazine and how fortunate I am to be part of something that has documented this community for so many years. I remain grateful to Linda Marks for entrusting me with this iconic publication and to the entire team that works each month to continue its legacy and tell the stories of our community.

Recently, I came across Rudyard Kipling’s poem “If—,” and its message struck me. Written more than a century ago, its words about perseverance, humility, patience and character still resonate today. Through both successes and challenges, I believe those are principles worth remembering and ones that can help us continue to soar with the eagles.

One of the things we want Ocala Magazine to continue doing is telling the stories of the people and organizations that make this community what it is. We are always looking for local stories, and I encourage our readers to reach out to us with ideas. Whether the story begins right here in Ocala or connects something happening nationally or globally back to our community. There are great stories all around us, and we want to hear about them.

This month’s Charity Spotlight features Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida’s Marion Branch and the work being done to expand access to food assistance throughout Marion County. It’s another example of people working every day to serve our community, and we thank them for all they do.

Finally, September is also a special month in my family. My mother turns 81, and I want to take this opportunity to wish her a very happy birthday.

I love you, Mom.

PHILIP GLASSMAN, PUBLISHER

16 | SEPTEMBER 2026 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

If you can keep your head when all about you Are losing theirs and blaming it on you, If you can trust yourself when all men doubt you, But make allowance for their doubting too; If you can wait and not be tired by waiting, Or being lied about, don’t deal in lies, Or being hated, don’t give way to hating, And yet don’t look too good, nor talk too wise: If you can dream - and not make dreams your master; If you can think - and not make thoughts your aim; If you can meet with Triumph and Disaster And treat those two impostors just the same; If you can bear to hear the truth you’ve spoken Twisted by knaves to make a trap for fools, Or watch the things you gave your life to, broken, And stoop and build ‘em up with worn-out tools: If you can make one heap of all your winnings And risk it on one turn of pitch-and-toss, And lose, and start again at your beginnings And never breathe a word about your loss; If you can force your heart and nerve and sinew To serve your turn long after they are gone, And so hold on when there is nothing in you Except the Will which says to them: ‘Hold on!’

If you can talk with crowds and keep your virtue, Or walk with Kings - nor lose the common touch, If neither foes nor loving friends can hurt you, If all men count with you, but none too much; If you can fill the unforgiving minute With sixty seconds’ worth of distance run, Yours is the Earth and everything that’s in it, And - which is more - you’ll be a Man, my son!

–Rudyard Kipling

When you need care, you can find us nearby.

HCA Florida Healthcare is one of the state’s leading healthcare networks, providing more close-to-home access to physicians and specialists, urgent care centers, free-standing emergency rooms and full-service hospitals than any other health system.

For a location near you, visit HCAForidaHealthcare.com or scan the QR code.

NOTE

from the mayor

Around the Table

O We’re fortunate to have so many good places to eat, no matter what you’re in the mood for.

ur dinner table is a sacred spot where meals are not just eaten, but the trials and triumphs of the day are retold, connections are made and laughter is abundant. We enjoy that time together whether we’re at home or eating out, which we find ourselves doing at least once a week.

We’re fortunate to have so many good places to eat, no matter what you’re in the mood for. I myself love a good steak, and there are plenty of places around town where I can find one. I also appreciate the many family-owned and operated restaurants we have. When people pour so much of themselves into a business, you can often see it in the food, the service and the way they treat their customers.

Locally owned doesn’t always mean an independent restaurant. Many of the familiar franchises around town are owned and operated by people who live here, employ local residents and take great pride in what they do.

There’s no ignoring the fact that the cost of just about everything is high right now.

Sometimes you just have to think outside the box. Go out for dessert or appetizers, share a meal or bring half of it home for lunch the next day. There are plenty of ways to make dining out stretch a little further.

At the end of the day, it’s not always about where you eat or what you order. Sometimes it’s just about enjoying a good meal and spending time around the table with the people you care about.

Ben Marciano

MAYOR OF OCALA

20 | SEPTEMBER 2026 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

From

MADE FROM

100%

Garden

PLANTS

(From Nature’s garden — even safe to eat!)

to Your Horse’s Skin.

Tough enough for a horse.

Gentle enough for a lady.

Quantum iRevive Skin Cream, offered by NuXtrax, is made from plants and nourishes the body from the outside-in. iRevive is more like a skin balm. Used for fine lines, wrinkle reduction, cuts, and burns.

With iRevive, a little goes a long way.

Categorized as the only skin Quantum

nourishment 100% biologic available today.

Some people love iRevive so much, we commonly hear users say that they wish it came in gallon

We recommend you take High Definition photos before and after 4 days and 7 days and you should notice a BIG difference!

containers so they could take a bath in iRevive.

Real Results. Real Difference.

Hoof before and after using iRevive Skin Cream.

BEFORE

5ml

AFTER

$55.00

+S&H Shipped to USA only 13ml — BEST VALUE

$107.00

+S&H Shipped to USA only

Results will vary. Consistent use is key.

To learn more about iRevive Skin Cream go to website:

horsecream.com

100% Raw Live Plants

Cuts • Scrapes • Abrasions • Irritated Skin • And More

Nourishes from the Outside-In

|

Supports Skin’s Natural Perfect for Everyday Renewal Process Skin Challenges

Fast healing so you can get on with your ride.

!

Residential | Commercial | New Construction PAINTING AND EPOXY FLOORS

(319) 361-6621

& OUT

John S. Prosoco | Owner/Instructor 352-509-2168 c 352-789-1401 Connect with us!

Follow us

CO

wwwTheHittingAcademyOcala.com

CHRIS CARPET CARE OM BUSINESS 104.7

MARKETPLACE Try Us! Power Brush FEATURES Wand Technology

43Residential Years Experience | Commercial | New Construction 08 New Ground Carpet, Furniture, TileEPOXY & Grout Cleaning PAINTINGBreaking AND FLOORS

(319) 361-6621 352.572.9184 12 Zombieland

www.classichitsocala.com www.facebook.com/classichitsocala

www.carpetcleaningocalafl orida.com Follow us

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FLAWLESS FINISHES, PremiumCigars, Cigars, Premium INSIDE Pipe PipeTobacco Tobacco& &Accessories Accessories unforgettable & OUT Ready to make the switch?

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A B E AU T I F U L V E N U E FOR YOUR MOST

We Mthe E A N I Nlargest U L M O M E Nselection TS Wehave have theG Flargest selectionof ofE-Juices E-Juicesin inOcala!

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104.7 26HARDER Great Smokey THE YOU WORK,Getaway THE HARDER IT IS TO SURRENDER

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38 Nightclubs LIVE

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41 Tavern on the Square

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DEPARTMENTS 44 State of the County Veterans Benefits

Residential | Commercial | New Construction 1220 E. Silver Springs Blvd. • 352-512-0346 PAINTING AND EPOXY FLOORS www.facebook.com/ocalasweetleaf

(319) 361-6621

1220 E. Silver9am-10pm, Springs Blvd.

• 352-512-0346 Mon-Sat Sun 11am-7pm www.facebook.com/ocalasweetleaf This product is NOT 9am-10pm, a safe alternative to cigarettes.

Mon-Sat Sun 11am-7pm Follow us Must be 18 years or older to enter.

Must valid ID. This product is NOT a safe alternativeshow to cigarettes.

Must be 18 years or older to enter. Must show valid ID.

104.7

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22 | SEPTEMBER 2026 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

46 MedicalCigars, Journal Premium 2401 SE 58th Ave., Ocala Pipe Tobacco Accessories John S. Prosoco |& 48 FitnessOwner/Instructor Tips 352-509-2168 c 352-789-1401 Ready to make the switch?

ConnectSelf with Improvement us! of E-JuicesTips We have the largest selection in Ocala!

50

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wwwTheHittingAcademyOcala.com

54 On the Menu

Dining Out CHRIS58CARPET CARE

THERE’S ROOM 62 Solomon’s Castle Power Brush FEATURES FOR YOU Wand Technology

43 Years Experience Contact Penny Miller 08 Breaking NewCleaning Ground Carpet, penny@ocalamagazine.com Furniture, Tile & Grout

1220 E. Silver Springs Blvd.

352-512-0346 PROMOTIONAL FEATURES 352.622.2995 ext•303

www.facebook.com/ocalasweetleaf 352.572.9184 129am-10pm, Zombieland Mon-Sat Sun 11am-7pm

www.carpetcleaningocalaflorida.com

The Laurie AnntoTruluck Team 42 This product is NOT a safe alternative cigarettes.

18 Mummified Must be 18 years or older to enter. Must show valid ID.

104.7 26 Great Smokey Getaway

My Country, ’Tis of Thee CELEBRATING AMERICAN ART AND DESIGN Celebrate more than three centuries of American art and design in My Country, ’Tis of Thee, an exhibition honoring the enduring spirit of American creativity and pride. Featuring 115 works, most from the Appleton Museum of Art’s permanent collection, the exhibition includes contemporary furniture, Pop Art, historical photographs, and documents reflecting Marion County’s own history.

Organized around themes inspired by the patriotic anthem “My Country, ‘Tis of Thee,” written in 1831

by Samuel Francis Smith, the exhibition explores how art has shaped and continues to shape the nation’s collective identity.

ON VIEW THROUGH SEPTEMBER 13 AT THE APPLETON MUSEUM OF ART.

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | SEPTEMBER 2026 |

23

MENU Catered by The Fiery Chef

Amuse-bouches, charcuterie and salade Lyonnaise Short rib boeuf bourguignon Provençal black grouper with lemon beurre blanc

6-9 P.M. | Thursday, October 8

Champignons Bourguignon (Vegetarian) Pommes purée and haricots verts amandine

Celebrate 76 years of live theatre in Ocala with a sophisticated evening of dinner, drinks, and sparkling entertainment! Enjoy selections from this year’s musicals: Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical Jr.; I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change; RENT; and Disney’s The Little Mermaid.

Reserve your seat at thecivic.org/event/set-the-stage-gala

Tarte tatin with Calvados caramel Signature French 75 cocktail

September 3–20, 2026

Ocala Civic Theatre 4337 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala Rated PG-13 | Winner of the Tony Award for Best Musical and the Pulitzer Prize for Drama, RENT is a powerful story of love, friendship, hope, and living life to the fullest.

TICKET INFORMATION

Adults $35-$40 18 & Under $17-$20 (352) 236-2274 ocalacivictheatre.com Supported in part by a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts

Get your copy of the sequel to David Cook’s book, with new articles and history. $25

JOIN HOPS AND PARTICIPATE IN YOUR COMMUNITY — KEEP OCALA’S HISTORY ALIVE. As a resident of Ocala’s historic district, you’re part of a living legacy.

HOPS works to preserve the charm, character, and heritage of our beautiful neighborhoods. Become a member and invest in the future of our community—because history is worth protecting.

Available at Your Hearts Desire in Ocala Shopping Center and the HOPS Bryant House at 712 E. Fort King St. Proceeds benefit preservation efforts in our community.

Contact 352.484.0502 for more information 712 E. Fort King St. | www.HistoricOcala.org Like us on Facebook

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Membership

Donate

Blend beauty and bounty with a Florida-friendly landscape that grows food right at home.

BY MARK BAILEY & AMANDA MAREK PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK BAILEY & HANNAH DURHAM

L

et’s talk about foodscaping.

Foodscaping is an alternative to traditional landscaping that lets you grow fresh food in your landscape by choosing plants that are both edible and ornamental. By using the Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ principles that include thoughtful plant selection and placement, you can grow a Florida-friendly foodscape, no matter how large or small your land may be, with minimal care. Once established, it can serve as an enduring source of fresh

26 | SEPTEMBER 2026 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

fruit, vegetables, herbs, spices, and attractive pollinator plants.

A foodscape can be composed entirely of edible plants or combined with traditional non-edible ornamental plants.

Foodscape plants can be used as ground cover, shrubs, or trees to fulfill every role a traditional ornamental plant might have in the landscape. The USDA plant hardiness zone map is a useful tool for determining which plants are suitable for your particular area. Marion County, with Ocala at its center, contains zone 9a

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | SEPTEMBER 2026 |

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in the northwest, which is cooler than zone 9b in the southeast. Before you head to your local nursery, consider the plant hardiness zone you live in as well as the conditions on your land. Is your growing space shaded or in full sun, sand or clay soil, etc.?

Once you’ve assessed your land, it is helpful to have a good list of plants that are suitable for your landscape. You can find more information about edible plant options and how to grow a thriving foodscape by reaching out to the UF/ IFAS Marion County Extension office, signing up for classes, talking with our Master Gardener Volunteers, or viewing other University of Florida resources at https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/.

You are also welcome to visit a demonstration Florida-Friendly Foodscape at the McPherson government complex in Ocala. The landscape is adjacent to the Administration building at 601 SE 25th Ave, Ocala, FL. This publicly accessible foodscape contains examples of small, medium, and large landscape plans that could serve as inspiration in your own landscape.

There is one especially important detail that will greatly affect the success of your future foodscape: irrigation. Plants need time to become fully established, especially in dry, sandy soil.

Regular application of water, whether manually or using automated irrigation, is essential to ensuring plants can grow a healthy, self-sustaining root system.

Generally, large plants will take more time, often many months, to become established than small plants. Irrigation kits and irrigation timers can keep the goal of plant establishment as simple as possible.

If you could choose only one plant for your landscape that performs beautifully as both ornamental and edible, the loquat is at the top of the list. Loquats are hardy, attractive, mid-sized shade trees with large evergreen leaves and sweetly scented cream-colored flowers. Loquat fruit typically ripens from late March through mid-April. Fruit will turn a gold color and should be picked once no green remains. If you have not yet eaten a loquat, it is juicy, sweet, and

tastes like an especially flavorful pear.

The fruit does not last long on the tree or on the shelf, so it’s important to pick and consume these bite-sized fruit without delay.

Mulberry trees are a good option if you want fruit from your landscape quickly. A small mulberry tree, properly planted and established, can quickly grow into a full-sized tree with an abundance of fruit. Consider the native red mulberry that can grow up to 60’ tall, the Florida-friendly black mulberry, or a dwarf variety like the dwarf Thai mulberry that has large, sweet fruit but typically stays less than 20’ tall. Mulberries

“Before you head to your local nursery, consider the plant hardiness zone you live in as well as the conditions on your land.” contain several species of fruit-bearing trees with a range of fruit qualities.

When shopping for mulberry trees, be sure to select the species or variety that fits your foodscaping goals. Mulberry fruit typically ripens in April, and once mature, they will soon drop off the tree, so it’s best to pick the fruit daily. If you like blackberries, it could be argued that they taste like a sweeter and seedless version of a blackberry, though they have no relation.

Blueberries have a place in the landscape as shrubs that produce delicious fruit. Two great Florida native options include Darrow’s blueberry, a small plant that grows up to 3’ tall with purple-colored young foliage, and rabbiteye

28 | SEPTEMBER 2026 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

blueberries, which produce an abundance of fruit. Blueberries need full sun and acidic soil to thrive, so use pine bark mulch when planting blueberries. Pine bark mulch helps to suppress weeds, retain soil moisture, and provide acidic soil conditions.

For those interested in growing herbs and spices in their landscape, rosemary, lemongrass, mint, basil, chives, society garlic, anise hyssop, cranberry hibiscus, and many others are well-suited to our local environment. If you were curious about the difference between an herb and a spice, an herb is the leafy vegetation, and a spice is any other part of the plant, such as seeds, stems, or roots.

Common examples of spices with landscape potential are ginger and turmeric.

Both of which can be planted from raw store-bought “roots”. Herbs and spices provide fresh ingredients for dishes or beverages, can be dried and then saved for later, and many are attractive to pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Yaupon holly is a unique native plant that, believe it or not, produces caffeine in its leaves. This plant comes in a range of sizes, from shrub to full-sized tree, but all can be readily used for yaupon holly tea. Strip off some of the small leaves, dry them, then steep them in hot water for a smooth, gently caffeinated tea.

For a blend of flavors that suites your taste, consider pairing yaupon holly with mint, cranberry hibiscus, or other herbs or spices.

A foodscape is an opportunity to grow your own healthy food, to get outdoors and enjoy the plants you grew. It can be so much more than a collection of edible plants in a landscape; it’s something that can be experienced and shared with others. At the center of a foodscape is food and it’s around food that so often lasting and meaningful memories are made.

Contact your local UF/IFAS Marion County Extension Service by calling 352-671-8400, email marion@ ifas.ufl.edu, or pay us a visit Monday-Friday, 8:00 – 5:00pm at 2232 NE Jacksonville Rd, Ocala, FL 34470.

Services are free courtesy of the Marion County Board of County Commissioners and the University of Florida. Don’t live in Marion County? There is a UF/ IFAS Extension Service in every county of the state.

Visit https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/.

“A foodscape is an opportunity to grow your own healthy food, to get outdoors and enjoy the plants you grew.”

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MOM Meghan and Clayton King

32 | SEPTEMBER 2026 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

ents M TO REMEMBER

I

magine walking into a cafe where your children, in all of their sweet chaos, are welcomed too. A cafe built for moms and children alike to deepen friendships as they sit around the table and play with one another.

A place where laughter and a little bit of mess are welcomed with smiles.

MOMentum Cafe and Play is a place of intention, and that is evident in its mission, menu and setup for make-believe Mompreneur Meghan King describes MOMentum as a “happy little accident.” As the owners of Ember Academy, Meghan and her husband, Clayton, originally leased the space for additional room for their school in the neighboring plaza. However, they quickly saw a need for parents to have a place to go with their smaller children while waiting for older children to finish either school or extracurriculars.

The dream that fueled MOMentum quickly sprang into action, and the cafe officially opened May 27, 2026.

The cafe resides in the same plaza as Graceful Gymnastics, PS Dance and Future Scholars Academy, providing a much-needed space for parents and children to enjoy themselves as they wait.

Geared primarily toward mothers and children, King has been inspired by Montessori and Waldorf, and that vision has been brought to life in the children’s play area by offering toys, such as a wooden puppet theater, that engage children in calm and creative play.

Walking into the cafe, it is clear that King has a heart for people of all ages.

The walls are light blue and the windows let in lots of natural light, as if the outdoors were thoughtfully invited in.

The play area includes a wooden play kitchen and a warm rug with wooden train tracks on the floor for children to gather around and play together. The play area is warmly inviting, as the toys are not overly colorful, loud or overstimulating. There are also various seating options, from tables and stools to comfy sofas and chairs for mothers to relax.

King loves to see moms connect and leave with new friendships. In response to being asked what the most rewarding moment of the journey has been, she responded, “Yeah, it’s not one moment.

It’s the momentum. It’s the many moments that make this place so beautiful and special.” In a time when everything is technology-driven, MOMentum Cafe invites others to slow down and connect. It is a place that gathers the isolated and has them leave with a fresh sense of belonging.

At MOMentum, there is a drink for everyone. From lattes to loaded teas to lemonade and chocolate milk, the cafe offers healthier drink options for everyone. They use GramZero to flavor and color their drinks as an alternative to regular table sugar and food dyes. Instead, GramZero uses stevia and colors naturally derived from fruits

MOMentum Cafe and Play gives moms and children a welcoming place to slow down, connect, play and build community.

BY KERRIGAN ADSIT PHOTOGRAPHY BY HANNAH DURHAM

and vegetables. They also offer protein donuts, a fun spin on a beloved dessert.

One of the cafe’s signature drinks, next to the popular Carry Me Caramel Latte, is the Vibe Loaded Tea, a fun and refreshing blend of dragon fruit, lemon and blue raspberry infused with collagen. According to King, the Vibe Loaded Tea best represents the cafe.

“It’s a whole new vibe! It’s something totally different.”

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As a mom to three, King can relate to the isolation many young mothers face.

With that in mind, she has crafted the cafe to be a welcoming environment for moms.

MOMentum offers community events throughout the week. The last Wednesday afternoon of every month is a LEGO building competition based around a theme. The parents vote, and the winner is sent home with a new LEGO set.

King also offers preschool labs on Fridays from 8 to 10 a.m. King says, “I am an expert when it comes to early child development. I worked in that area for about five years and then worked under a brilliant mind, Dr. Pamela Phelps, and learned a lot from her.” King uses the preschool labs to give mothers insights on early childhood development and to offer resources to best set up their children for success.

As the cafe’s events continue to grow in popularity, King has plans to expand the play space in October by adding a gated outdoor space that will be “more of a play garden than a playground” as they

borrow from the philosophies of Waldorf and Montessori. An advocate for both calm and engaging play, she desires that the indoor play area be a calm environment and the outdoor play garden be a place of active engagement in creative play.

“Yeah, it’s not one moment. It’s the momentum. It’s the many moments that make this place so beautiful and special.”

Benjamin and Obadiah King

34 | SEPTEMBER 2026 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

Meghan and Clayton King had a vision for a place where people of all ages could gather. Together, they crafted a space with intention and a love for their Ocala community. MOMentum Cafe and Play is a welcoming place for mothers and their children to connect and build friendships, creating momentum moment by moment.

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Harvest COMMUNITY

Second Harvest expands access to food assistance to Marion County.

BY SHARON RAYE PHOTOGRAPHY BY HANNAH DURHAM

T

here are so many things we never see at face value. When something is done well, we see the finished result, but not always the many moving parts, brainstorming sessions, research, preparation and hard work that made it possible.

The more organizations I have the opportunity to learn about, the more I notice that common thread. When people truly believe in what they are doing, they gladly put in the work, often without expecting recognition. But it is worth taking a moment to notice the effort behind what can appear, from the outside, to happen effortlessly.

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That is certainly the case at Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida – Marion Branch.

At first glance, the concept of a food bank seems fairly simple: food comes in and food goes back out into the community. But behind that exchange is a network of donors, partner agencies, staff, volunteers, transportation, refrigeration, food safety and logistics working together to make sure food reaches the people who need it.

Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida serves seven counties and works with more than 800 nonprofit partners across the region. Here in Marion County, its local branch supports approximately 50 partner agencies that distribute food through pantries, shelters and other community programs.

And the amount of food moving through that system is substantial.

Last year alone, approximately 8 million pounds of groceries were distributed in Marion County. Across Second Harvest’s seven-county service area, the organization distributes enough food for 83 million meals each year.

“It sounds like a lot of food, and it is a lot of food, but unfortunately, it’s not quite enough.”

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–Greg Higgerson, CFRE

“It sounds like a lot of food, and it is a lot of food, but unfortunately, it’s not quite enough,” Higgerson said.

Those numbers are significant, yet the need is even greater. More than half a million people across Central Florida seek food assistance, including an estimated 60,000 in Marion County.

According to Second Harvest, roughly one in seven people in the region struggles to afford enough food for themselves and their families.

And even 83 million meals are not enough to completely close that gap.

The Marion Branch is working to increase distribution from roughly 8 million pounds annually to 11 million pounds over the next 18 months, with support from Marion County, United Way and additional community partners. But one of the biggest obstacles is remarkably practical: space.

The need for additional space goes beyond simply storing more food. The Marion Branch’s current facility also limits some of the work that can take place there. Across Second Harvest’s seven-county service area, volunteers contribute more than 140,000 hours each year, helping with tasks that include sorting food. In Marion County, however, the branch currently does not have the physical capacity to accommodate additional volunteer groups at its facility.

In the meantime, community partnerships are helping the Marion Branch expand its capacity. Central Florida Health Care has provided additional storage space, while Marion County and United Way are among those supporting the effort to increase the amount of food available locally. Ultimately, however, a larger facility would give the Marion Branch more room to store and distribute food while also creating space for the volunteer involvement that currently cannot be accommodated.

But increasing capacity is not simply about moving more food. It also creates opportunities to expand the ways Second Harvest reaches people throughout the community.

One area the organization hopes to grow in Marion County is its School Markets program. Second Harvest

currently serves two elementary schools locally, compared with 90 schools throughout its seven-county service area.

Because the Marion Branch has only been operating for about three years, Greg Higgerson, chief development officer for Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida, said expanding the program here is a priority.

The markets essentially operate as small food pantries inside participating schools. Students can pick up food to take home to their families or have access to snacks during the school day.

“It’s an important way to reach kids that may not be getting a lot of food at home,” Higgerson said.

The need for food assistance can also arise unexpectedly.

Higgerson recalled recently meeting a family that had relocated to Central Florida from Michigan after their youngest of four children developed a rare condition that caused a severe reaction to cold temperatures. The mother, an employee of Ford Motor Company who was already working remotely,

received permission to continue her job from Florida.

The family invested much of its savings in the move.

Then, just a few months later, she was laid off.

With four children and an unexpected loss of income, the family was suddenly struggling to afford enough food. Second Harvest’s network of partner organizations helped them through that period until both parents were working again.

“Life comes at you, as they say. And sometimes you don’t plan, even though you do your best,” Higgerson said.

It is perhaps one of the simplest explanations for why a network like Second Harvest exists. Food insecurity does not always begin with a long series of circumstances. Sometimes life changes quickly, and a family that was managing yesterday needs help today.

For those who want to help, that support can take several forms. While the Marion Branch does not currently have enough space to accommodate additional volunteer groups at its facility,

42 | SEPTEMBER 2026 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

Second Harvest’s approximately 50 partner agencies throughout Marion County rely on volunteers to help serve their communities.

Financial contributions and simply helping others understand the extent of food insecurity in Central Florida also make a difference.

“If we’re removed from it, we don’t think about it,” Higgerson said. “It’s a huge problem sort of right under the surface of Central Florida life.”

And sometimes seeing what exists beneath the surface is the first step toward helping.

To learn more, donate or get involved, visit FeedHopeNow.org or contact the Marion Branch at 352-732-5500.

DERMATOLOGY & AESTHETIC CENTER Valentina Bradley Kalbaugh, MD

Harvard Graduate

Dr. Kalbaugh brings over 25 years of experience to our practice. She earned her medical degree from Harvard Medical School and completed her dermatology residency through the Harvard Combined Dermatology Program based at Massachusetts General Hospital. She then pursued a fellowship at Mohs Micrographic Surgery and Dermatologic Surgery. Dr. Kalbaugh is a Diplomate of the American Board of Dermatology and is board-certified in both Dermatology and Mohs Micrographic Surgery. She is pleased to bring her accomplished training and compassionate care to meet all of her patients’ medical and surgical needs.

Amber Starling, DNP, DCNP-C Amber is a board certified Dermatology and Family Practice Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in diagnosing and treating a wide range of acute and chronic skin conditions. She performs both medically necessary surgical procedures and aesthetic cosmetic removals. Amber completed her Doctoral program at The University of Florida, focusing her project on Hidradenitis Suppurativa. An Ocala native, she has been serving the community for over 16 years.

Lauren Davis, PA-C Lauren is a board-certified Physician Assistant with a Bachelor’s Degree in Health Science from the University of Florida and a Master’s Degree in Physician Assistant Studies from South University in Tampa. She also completed a fellowship in Dermatology. Board and raised in Florida, Lauren is passionate about early screening and detection, delivering personalized treatment to her patients and performing necessary surgical procedures as well as aesthetic removals.

Our dermatology team delivers expert, individualized care for all skin concerns. With the support of our CAP-accredited, on-site pathology lab, we are able to provide faster and highly accurate results for our patients.

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For our Food & Drink issue, we asked a handful of local residents to share one of their favorite dishes from restaurants around town. The dishes they come back to again and again offer a taste of local fare worth discovering for yourself.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY HANNAH DURHAM

46 | SEPTEMBER 2026 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

Mesa de Notte

Chicken Piccata “My favorite dish in town has to be the chicken piccata from Mesa de Notte. It’s light, buttery, perfectly lemony, and the chicken is always so tender. Simple, fresh and absolutely delicious every time!”

— Andrea Byall

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | SEPTEMBER 2026 |

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TASTES of the TOWN

Breakfast Station

Crunch Toast “My favorite place to eat in Ocala is the Breakfast Station in Pearl Britten Plaza. My favorite dish there is the Crunch Toast. It is French toast dredged through Cap’n Crunch cereal and deep-fried. Why do I love it? Read the description. It is French toast deep-fried in Cap’n Crunch cereal. It is like heaven on a plate.”

— Sean Watson

48 | SEPTEMBER 2026 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

TASTES of the TOWN

Bagelicious

Chicken Salad Melt on a Whole Wheat Bagel “For 20 years, I’ve been going to Bagelicious and ordering the exact same thing, a chicken salad melt on a whole wheat bagel.

At this point, they know me so well they start making it the moment I walk through the door.”

— Desi Leibfried

Brysen Sachs

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | SEPTEMBER 2026 |

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TASTES of the TOWN

Brick City Southern Kitchen

Chopped Brisket Sandwich “It’s the best brisket I’ve ever had, and I get it every time I go here! It has an incredible smoky flavor with the perfect amount of bark. The beef is always very tender and never dry. I pair it with their collard greens and homemade mac and cheese for the perfect combination.”

— Rikki Hambidge

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TASTES of the TOWN

Flying Boat Tap Room

Smoked Blackened Mahi Sandwich “My favorite dish in the Ocala area is a smoked blackened mahi sandwich at the Flying Boat Tap Room on Baseline Road. It’s a comfort food that’s mild and full of flavor and healthy as well. Combine that with the unique atmosphere and enjoyable service there, and it all adds up to my favorite dish at my favorite spot.”

— Dan Sommer

52 | SEPTEMBER 2026 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

Four Steps

to fewer falls

Every year, over 16,000 people fall and need emergency care in Marion County. Help cut the risk of falls!

• Review medications with your doctor • Build strength and balance • Get your eyes and feet checked • Make your home safer For more information, call 352-629-0137 or visit Marion.FloridaHealth.gov.

TASTES of the TOWN

Mustangs & Mulligans

Gazpacho

“I love our gazpacho soup at Mustangs & Mulligans because it is cool and refreshing!”

— Amanda Daugherty

54 | SEPTEMBER 2026 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

OCALA’S #1 MOST AWARD-WINNING CITY MAGAZINE

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The Land

Beneath the Why Marion County’s Farmland Preservation Area matters.

COURTESY OF HORSE FARMS FOREVER

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ELMA GARCIA

58 | SEPTEMBER 2026 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

Hooves

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | SEPTEMBER 2026 |

59

But the story of this soil is bigger than horses. It is also a story about water.

The nearly 200,000-acre Farmland Preservation Area was created by Marion County in 2005 specifically to help protect the region’s mineral-rich agricultural soils, water and springsheds. Much of the FPA lies over a unique karst landscape—a limestone geology that allows rainfall to move rapidly through the ground and replenish the Floridan Aquifer. In other words, the very land that grows the grass that feeds the horses also helps feed the springs that provide water for people, farms and wildlife.

The FPA contains important springsheds and recharge areas for two of Marion County’s First Magnitude Springs: Rainbow Springs and Silver Springs. Horse Farms Forever describes the FPA as a major recharge area for these springs. When rain falls on intact farmland and open spaces, that water can infiltrate the highly permeable limestone and make its way into the aquifer below.

That aquifer is, quite literally, the lifeblood of Florida’s springs—and an important source of Florida’s drinking water.

That is why losing farmland is about much more than losing a pretty view.

Every time agricultural land is fragmented or converted to more intensive

development, there can be consequences for the rural landscape, the horse industry and the natural systems beneath it. Roads, rooftops and other development can change how rainfall moves across the land and increase pressure on an area already essential to groundwater recharge. And once these unique soils are covered or a working horse farm is divided into smaller parcels, what is lost cannot simply be rebuilt somewhere else.

The pressure is real, and Marion County is growing fast. Development proposals, roadway projects and changes in land use continue to put pressure on the FPA. Horse Farms Forever serves as a watchdog to monitor development proposals and advocate for policies that protect the FPA. Growth is good for a community, and it aligns with our mission. That mission is to preserve the character and culture that horses, horse farms and the Farmland Preservation Area make unique to Marion County as it grows.

Urban growth becomes urban sprawl when the Comprehensive Plan and Land Development Code are subject to change with every request.

To help protect the FPA, the organization works with partner organizations

60 | SEPTEMBER 2026 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

…this extraordinary combination of soil, climate, water and open land has made Marion County one of the most important horse-breeding and training regions on earth.

OFMC AESTHETICS & LASER Deborah Scott, LPN, LE Dermatological Nurse - Esthetician

30+ years of experience

· · · · · · · · · · · · ·

OFMC AESTHETICS & LASER

2121 SW 22nd Place • Ocala, FL 34471 • 352-368-1333 • www.OcalaFMC.com *Ocala Family Medical Center, Inc. complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex.*

The FPA contains important springsheds and aquifer recharge areas for two of Marion County’s First Magnitude Springs: Rainbow Springs and Silver Springs. These springsheds - shown in yellow on the map - are the lungs and the lifeblood for the aquifer and the springs.

to help landowners explore conservation options, such as conservation easements.

They have also successfully advocated for stronger protections within the FPA and work to educate the community about why these lands matter.

The FPA is a crown jewel, and it is more than a boundary on a map. It is the foundation beneath the hooves, the horse farms—and the springs.

The FPA must be respected and protected.

Protecting it means protecting what makes Marion County extraordinary: soil found almost nowhere else on Earth, water that begins with the land beneath our feet, and a horse country that cannot be duplicated.

That is what Horse Farms Forever is fighting to keep—forever. horsefarmsforever.com

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“Look past your thoughts, so you may drink the pure nectar of this moment.”

—Rumi

Society p64 | Community p66 | Recipe p68 | Dining Out p72

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | SEPTEMBER 2026 |

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society

Year of the Fire Horse STORY & PHOTOGRAPHY BY RONALD W. WETHERINGTON, SOCIETY EDITOR

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he Florida Thoroughbred Breeders’ & Owners’ Association held the FTBOA Year of the Fire Horse Gala at the Circle Square Cultural Center to celebrate Florida-bred champions and their connections, including Horse of the Year Bentornato. The event was hosted by the board of directors, led

by President Valerie Dailey and CEO Lonny Powell.

Local honorees included Charlotte Weber’s Live Oak, Bridlewood Farm, Ocala Stud, Pleasant Acres Stallions, Stonehedge Farm South and Rivermont Farm, among others.

FTBOA VP Tammy Gantt coordinated the evening, with the fire horse coming to life thanks to Beautiful Moments and Mojo’s Catering division creating an Asian-inspired experience. Top sponsors included Florida Coast Equipment, The Club at Iron Lake, Horse Farms Forever and Kinsman Farm.

Tribute, the 25th anniversary Horse Fever horse, was also on-site to promote charity fundraising.

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PICTURED

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1. Jaye Bailey, Laurie Zink and Ronald W. Wetherington 2. Tammy Gantt, Sally Lewis, Jinny and Beth Gamble 3. Nathalie Thaler and Michael Sucher 4. Larry and Rhonda Malk 5. Keiver and Paola Rengifo and Gregory Martin 6. Christina Jones, Tanda Downs, Justin, Morgan and Jessica Smith 7. Stacey Rollins, Gene and Addy Bigio 8. Brian and Tina Roberts, Sara Fennessy and Charley Ragland 9. Vickie Nitshke and Rebecca Ramirez 10. Sandy and Frank Tatasciore 11. Karen and Lonny Powell and Pete Aiello 12. Jerry, Susan and Charles Chu 13. Sam and Phil Matthews, Crysta Fernung and Darrel Solley

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community

Public Information Office Named

Government Team of the Year

STORY AND PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE CITY OF OCALA

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he City of Ocala Public Information Office was recognized with the Pinnacle Gold Award for Government Team of the Year during the Florida Public Relations Association’s Golden Image Awards Gala.

The award recognizes a local or state government agency, department or office in Florida that demonstrates exceptional use of public relations, marketing and communications to fulfill its mission and better serve its constituents.

66 | SEPTEMBER 2026 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

The City of Ocala Public Information Office oversees the city’s strategic communications, media relations, digital communications, marketing, photography, videography and public engagement efforts. The team works collaboratively with departments across the organization to provide residents, employees and community partners with timely, accurate and accessible information.

The Golden Image Awards represent the highest level of statewide recognition presented by FPRA and honor outstanding public relations programs throughout Florida.

The recognition was presented during FPRA’s Annual PR & Comms Summit, where Public Information Officer Gregory Davis was also sworn in as vice president of professional development on the FPRA State Executive Committee, and Public Relations Specialist Misti Barrett graduated from the LeadershipFPRA program.

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recipe

Food to Gather Around STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY HANNAH DURHAM

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weet figs and tangy goat cheese make for a tart that’s both sweet and savory. Layered with fig jam over flaky puff pastry and finished with honey, fresh thyme, and flaky salt — it’s full of flavor without requiring much effort. Fresh figs are at their best this time of year, and this tart lets them do most of the work. Serve it warm from the oven and slice it right at the table. No special occasion required.

Fig & Goat Cheese Tart Ingredients • 1 sheet puff pastry • 2 tablespoons fig jam • 5–6 fresh figs, thinly sliced • 4 ounces goat cheese, crumbled • 1 egg, beaten, for egg wash • Honey, for drizzling • Fresh thyme leaves • Flaky salt

Instructions 1. Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Unroll the puff pastry onto the prepared baking sheet.

Lightly score a 1-inch border around the edges, being careful not to cut all the way through. Prick the center of the pastry several times with a fork.

3. Spread a thin layer of fig jam inside the border.

4. Arrange the sliced figs over the jam and scatter the goat cheese throughout.

5. Brush the border with the beaten egg. Chill the assembled tart for about 10 minutes before baking.

6. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and deeply golden brown around the edges.

7. Finish with a drizzle of honey, fresh thyme, and flaky salt.

Serve warm.

68 | SEPTEMBER 2026 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

THE BEST IN LIVE ENTERTAINMENT The Ocala Symphony Orchestra, national and regional artists and much more!

Super Pickle: Super Pickle: A Hilarious Pickleball Musical Parody | September 12

Chuck Owen & the Jazz Surge | | September 24 with special guests Randy Brecker and Kate McGarry

Music Box 2; All In the Family ft. Stewart Kitts | September 20

Reilly Noir: JK & the Contraband | October 2

Scan the QR code to view the complete lineup of performances at the Reilly Arts Center.

BECOME A 2026-2027 SEASON SUBSCRIBER

OCALA’S HOME FOR COMEDY Join us downtown Thursday-Saturday!

Katie Boyle | September 26

Films from just $5 Live concerts and events Live Comedy Sponsorship Opportunities Rent the Marion Theatre Full bar and concession

Ahren Belisle | October 1

CHECK OUT OUR SEPTEMBER MOVIES FOR JUST $5 ReillyArtsCenter.com | 352-351-1606 | 500 NE 9th Street

ReillyArtsCenter.com | 352-351-1606 | 500 NE 9th Street

Media Support provided by:

MarionTheatre.org | 50 S Magnolia Ave

MarionTheatre.org | 50 S Magnolia Ave

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recipe

Going Bananas STORY BY SHARON RAYE PHOTOGRAPHY BY HANNAH DURHAM

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anana is having a moment. The familiar fruit has moved beyond smoothies and into coffee shops, where banana lattes, coffee and matcha are popping up on menus across the country. Banana has become one of the fastest-growing flavor trends in the food and beverage industry, making banana matcha a drink worth trying.

Want to try the trend at home? This banana matcha is easy to make with just a few ingredients. Or check your favorite local coffee shop. You may just find their own version already on the menu.

Iced Banana Matcha Latte Prep time: 5 minutes | Serves: 1 Ingredients • 1/2 ripe banana • 1 teaspoon matcha powder • 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based) • 3 tablespoons warm water • Ice cubes

Instructions 1. Blend the base: Blend the banana and 1/4 cup of the milk until completely smooth. Pour into a tall glass.

2. Add ice: Fill the glass with ice, then pour the remaining 3/4 cup milk over the ice.

3. Whisk the matcha: Whisk the matcha powder and warm water together until smooth and frothy.

4. Layer and serve: Gently pour the matcha over the iced milk to create the layered effect. Stir before drinking.

Barista Upgrades The Syrup Shortcut: For a smoother texture or if you don’t feel like pulling out the blender, replace the fresh banana with 1 to 2 tablespoons of banana syrup and stir it directly into the milk.

The Cold Foam Finish: Skip the blended banana and froth 2 tablespoons heavy cream, 1 tablespoon milk and 1 tablespoon banana syrup until thick. Pour the banana cold foam over the iced matcha.

70 | SEPTEMBER 2026 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

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dining out

PLAY

dining out

Oak Room Bar and Grill Blending timeless traditions with the rich diversity of America’s culinary scene, Oak Room Bar & Grill offers a refined approach to classic American fare Our menu showcases everything from beloved comfort foods to inventive seasonal creations, all honoring the flavors, ingredients, and hospitality that define the American table. Open to the public Monday through Saturday. Catering available.

11220 SW 69th Cir, Ocala Phone: (352) 861-1818 oakroombarandgrillocala.com

Mark’s Mark’sPrime PrimeSteakhouse Steakhouse

Mark’s Prime hashas a goal to create a unique Mark’s PrimeSteakhouse Steakhouse a goal to create a unique dining dining experience that will please the palate and soothe experience that will please the palate and soothe the soul. We serv the finest soul. We serve thefreshest finest beef, the freshest seafood, the beef, the seafood, premium wines and naturally premium wines and naturally fresh vegetables.

We are fresh vegetables. We are pleased to have been serving the finest qu pleased to have been serving the finest quality dining dining experience since November 2002, more than 20 years ago! experience since 2002!

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There’s room for you.

FOR A LIMITED-TIME: 15% OFF Contact Penny Miller penny@ocalamagazine.com | 352.622.2995 ext 303

72 | SEPTEMBER 2026 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

Courtesy of the Ocala/Marion County Visitor and Convention Bureau

“The greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate actions of its members.”

—Coretta Scott King

Everything Equine p74 | State of the City p76 | State of the County p78 From the Library p80 | Maddie’s Take p82 | Destinations p84 | Last Look p86

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | SEPTEMBER 2026 |

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everything equine

Hoofbeats Through the Heart of Ocala

Celebrating the Horse Capital of the World® STORY BY LOUISA BARTON PHOTOS BY MABE MEDIA.

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cala/Marion County is world-renowned as the Horse Capital of the World® — and for good reason. With more horses than any other county in the world and more than 80,000 horses calling this beautiful part of North Central Florida home, the horse is far more than part of our landscape; it is part of our identity.

The equine industry is also an extraordinary economic driver, creating an impact of nearly $5 billion and helping make Marion County one of the most unique equestrian communities anywhere in the world. With more than 70 breeds calling Marion County home, there is certainly plenty to celebrate.

Over the past 10 years, the Chamber’s Equine Initiative, presented by Pyranha Animal Health, has found creative ways to bring the equestrian and non-equestrian communities together. Through a variety of educational events featuring horses, riders and equine professionals, those who may not encounter horses in their everyday lives have been given the opportunity to experience the horse world firsthand — meeting different breeds, learning about the industry and hearing directly from some of the area’s top equestrians.

One of the most visible and exciting ways of doing that is the Horse Capital All-Breed Parade, presented by Pat Myers Electric.

Before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the parade had grown to feature almost 100 horses. One memorable

year even saw the magnificent Budweiser Clydesdales join the celebration as horses took to the streets of downtown Ocala.

The pandemic brought restrictions on large public events, and although the parade missed only one year and continued at a different location for several years, it was understandably scaled down.

Then, in 2025, something very special happened.

The Hoofbeats Returned to the Heart of Ocala.

The All-Breed Horse Capital Parade was once again back on the streets of downtown Ocala, and the response from the community was incredible.

As horses passed the iconic Marion Theatre and made their way through downtown, excitement filled the air.

74 | SEPTEMBER 2026 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

Crowds lined the sidewalks as breed after breed passed before them, with gasps of admiration at the beauty and majesty of the horses.

The riders were every bit as enthusiastic about showcasing their horses. Some embraced the Halloween spirit in costume, while others proudly wore attire representing the authentic heritage of their breed.

Mustangs rode side by side — one in traditional English apparel and tack and another riding in Western style. Mothers rode alongside small children on ponies. Top Mounted Games competitors proudly carried their banner, while the huntsmen of Misty Morning Hounds, magnificent in their scarlet jackets and accompanied by their hounds, brought

yet another wonderful equestrian tradition into the heart of downtown.

And the variety didn’t stop there.

Horses, ponies and miniature horses filled the streets. Gypsy Vanners, Florida Cracker Horses, Percherons, Clydesdales, Mangalarga Marchadors and many more breeds were represented. Even mules joined the celebration, while horsedrawn carriages added yet another touch of tradition.

Leading the way was the Ocala Police Department, and behind them came a remarkable representation of the diversity of the equine world.

For spectators, it was a chance to see horses they may otherwise never encounter. For the riders, it was an opportunity to proudly showcase the breeds, disciplines and traditions they love. And for Marion County, it was a chance to celebrate something that connects so many of us.

The horse.

This year, we hope the community will once again fill the streets of downtown Ocala on Oct. 10 at 9 a.m. for this phenomenal showcase.

There could hardly be a more fitting way to celebrate the culture of Marion County and the animal that has helped shape its history, economy and identity.

And the celebration doesn’t have to end when the final hoofbeats leave downtown.

That evening, the Black and White Gala will provide the perfect finale to a day devoted to the horse. Held at the Circle Square Cultural Center in Ocala, the evening will celebrate Gentle Carousel’s Magic, the miniature therapy horse whose extraordinary story has touched people around the world.

Joined by some of Nashville’s top artists for an evening of dinner, dancing and live performances, the Gala promises to make Oct. 10 a day to remember from beginning to end.

From the first horse entering downtown in the morning to the final celebration that evening, Oct. 10 will be about something Ocala and Marion County know better than almost anywhere else: Celebrating the horse — right here in the Horse Capital of the World®.

Mark Your Calendar October 10, 9 a.m.

The All-Breed Horse Capital Parade in Downtown Ocala October 23, 3:30 p.m.

Horse-O-Ween is back at the Downtown Market with an Equine Industry Career Expo and the Hobby Horse Equestrian Games.

Free for all ages.

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

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | SEPTEMBER 2026 |

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state of the city

Art and Music in the Heart of Ocala This Fall

BY RYAN KIRBY

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owntown Ocala will come alive this fall with two signature City of Ocala cultural programs. Whether you are a longtime resident or new to the area, the First Friday Art Walk and Sunset Songs series offer vibrant, family-friendly experiences that highlight local creativity and bring the community together.

The First Friday Art Walk, held the first Friday of each month from October through May, transforms historic downtown into a lively open-air gallery.

More than 40 artists line the streets with original works ranging from painting and pottery to photography and mixed media. Live performers add to the atmosphere as visitors browse, meet creators and take part in free art activities offered by local arts organizations.

This year’s Art Walk dates are Oct. 2, Nov. 6, Dec. 4, Jan. 8, Feb. 5, March 5, April 2 and May 7. Guests are encouraged to support downtown businesses offering extended hours while enjoying an evening in downtown Ocala. For more information, visit ocalafl.gov/ artwalk.

A few blocks away, the Sunset Songs series invites visitors to settle in for a relaxed night of live music under the open sky. Now entering its third season, the free monthly concert series takes place from 7 to 9 p.m. at Citizens’ Circle and features a curated lineup of professionally touring and emerging artists.

Audience members can expect a mix of

funk, blues, reggae, country, jazz, indie, Americana and more.

The 2026-27 season includes performances on Oct. 9, Nov. 13, Dec. 11, Jan. 15, Feb. 12 and March 12. Each concert enhances community engagement, draws residents and visitors into the downtown district and supports local businesses through increased foot traffic.

Both programs continue to foster a thriving culture of art, music, diversity and shared experiences in Ocala.

Whether you are exploring artist booths or listening to fresh regional sounds, downtown promises memorable nights filled with creativity and connection.

To learn more about Sunset Songs, visit ocalafl.gov/ sunsetsongsseries. For Art Walk details, visit ocalafl. gov/artwalk.

76 | SEPTEMBER 2026 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

Hospice is about holding on to what matters most. At Hospice of Marion County, we walk with patients and families through life’s tender chapters, creating space for comfort, dignity, and connection.

As part of Empath Health’s commitment to Full Life Care, our support goes beyond the medical. From music and aromatherapy to counseling and grief support, we offer services that soothe the spirit and nurture the heart.

Here, families guide the choices. We listen, honor, and support so every moment can be shaped by love.

We don’t just walk alongside patients—we walk with families, nurturing peace, comfort, and giving them the space to focus on moments that matter most.

Let’s walk this journey together. Contact us today.

HospiceofMarion.org

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state of the county

Meet (Some Of ) The People Working For You

BY MARK ANDERSON

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hile Labor Day may have already come and gone depending on when you pick this magazine up from the rack, the national holiday celebrating workers is the perfect time to highlight some of the many faces behind the Marion County departments working hard every day to serve you, our citizens and customers.

First responders, librarians, road crews, event staff, and more – these are the people who are here to keep our county operating 3 smoothly and safely.

Thank you to all of the Marion County employees for the work you do, and most importantly, thank you to Marion County residents for allowing all of us to continue to work for you!

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PICTURED 1. Hurricane Debby Road Cleanup 2. Marion Oaks Live Burn 3. Brittany Jackson 4. Sign Crew 5. Extension Master Gardeners Tour 6. Tree Clearing Near CR 329 7. Sinkhole Repair 8. Sign Crew 9. House Fire Training 10. Ready To Read Expo 2023 11. Parks & Rec Carnival

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from the library

Feast on Literature

BY KAY YACCARINO

“Jody…saw nothing but his plate…There were poke-greens with bits of white bacon buried in them; sand-buggers made of potato and onion and the cooter he had found; sour orange biscuits… and the sweet potato pone.

‘I’m eatin’ it quick,’ he admitted, ‘but I’ll remember it a long time.’”

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–The Yearling by Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings.

ave you ever read a book, from your local public library of course, that described a meal so perfectly that you could literally taste it, smell it and imagine it? How many have read area author Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings’ words in The Yearling and suddenly craved a hearty, old-fashioned Southern meal?

Readers understand that one of the most powerful and magical things a good book does is transport you to another place. Open the cover to discover medieval kingdoms, distant lands, historic figures, fairies and dragons, or just people living ordinary lives. Authors

create the characters and the setting through the creative use of vivid descriptions and dialogue that compels you to keep reading and sometimes even makes our stomachs grumble!

Food connects us to our memories of childhood, our experiences and our families. Writers use food as a literary device to evoke those memories but also to entice us to connect to a new time or place. For children, The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle helps them learn to count as they read about all the things the caterpillar eats. Green Eggs and Ham by Dr. Seuss helps children understand that it’s OK to try new foods, even if you think you won’t like them,

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and the colorful illustrations of fruits and vegetables in Eating the Alphabet by Lois Ehlert help children learn the alphabet.

For older readers, the Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling includes many descriptions of food, especially sweets, such as Bertie Bott’s Every Flavor Beans.

“You want to be careful with those,” Ron warned Harry. “When they say every flavor, they mean every flavor – you get all the ordinary ones like chocolate and peppermint and marmalade, but then you can get spinach and liver and tripe.”

Often, literary scenes are so compelling that you feel as though you are in another time or another country. British literature includes numerous references to afternoon tea, scones and even beans on toast, while Italian literature often focuses on wine, olives and fresh bread. In Latin American literature, such as Like Water for Chocolate by Laura Esquivel, simple recipes sprinkled with complex emotions are featured throughout the novel.

The Marion County Public Library System has cookbooks galore in all of our locations, where anyone can find recipes and instructions to create a wonderful meal. But if you want to relive a childhood memory or lose yourself in a faraway place, consider indulging in literature that can transport you through wonderful descriptions of food. Librarians are happy to help you select your next read, and whether it’s a short book or a long novel, chances are, like Jody, you will “remember it a long time.”

22 | FEB 2026 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

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maddie’s take

Settling In

BY MADISON GLASSMAN

B

efore we get into this month, I have to rewind a little because August was kind of a big deal.

I officially started high school!

And all the things I was nervous about turned out to be way better than I imagined. I was so worried about getting lost in the halls, but after the first day, I literally knew where I was going.

But if I’m being honest, lunch is definitely a struggle. It’s so hard when you don’t have any friends in your lunch. The first week, I literally tried everything to find my friends. There are so many people that it’s hard to pinpoint one or two people in the crowd. If you’re struggling like me, I would definitely text your friends before lunch and find a meeting spot. That’s the only way I was able to find mine.

And one thing I definitely didn’t anticipate was walking up and down the stairs all day. It’s a full-on workout!

Overall, my first week was definitely better than I expected. So let’s just say I’m excited to see what this year at Forest is like!

Now on to September, which is a special month because it’s my mom’s 50th birthday! I’m so grateful for her and everything she does for me, and I want her to know just how much I appreciate her.

As everyone knows, I love music. My mom is always asking me who sings a song or what a song is called, and most of the time I know. So of course, when she told me she wanted me to make her a playlist for her birthday, I started paying attention to the songs she seemed to really like. If I noticed her singing along or getting into one, then I’d add it to the list. It’s already over three hours long, and I can’t wait for her to hear the whole thing!

Speaking of things I love, let’s switch gears completely and talk about season five of Outer Banks. If you

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haven’t watched it yet, maybe skip this part because there are going to be some spoilers!

I’ve been watching this show since like sixth grade, and I’m so sad that it’s the final season. But everybody finally got the happy ending they deserved.

I’m not even gonna lie, though. I wish they would’ve done something different with Rafe, but that’s just me.

Like, why did they make him move to South America?

That show will always have a special place in my heart, and I’m so sad to see it go. If you haven’t watched it yet, add it to your watchlist. It’s great!

September has been pretty chill. I don’t have that much more to talk about. I’m just kind of transitioning and getting back into the groove of school and stuff.

I hope you enjoyed this month’s Maddie’s Take. See you next month!

infinite possibilities await

PreK3 - Eighth Grade 2313 S.E. Lake Weir Avenue, Ocala, FL 34471 | (352) 351-8840 | www.thecornerstoneschool.org

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destinations

®

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

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n empty stomach often signals the start of a new adventure. Sometimes we settle for the first quick fix to sLatisfy hunger, but why settle when Ocala/ Marion County’s food scene offers more?

From one end of the county to the other, any ordinary lunch can become a special culinary experience. With fall approaching, explore two great options that show how atmosphere enhances your journey.

The Orange Shop As Florida’s signature fruit, oranges are central to local culture, especially in Citra in northern Marion County. For 90 years, locals and visitors have visited The Orange Shop here for an authentic taste of Florida. Its quirky, retro storefront on U.S. Highway 301 feels like stepping back to a simpler, sunnier era. Inside, you’re greeted by the sweet citrus scent and shelves filled with hand-picked bounty.

They offer a wide variety of citrus that can satisfy anyone’s preferences, from sweet navel oranges to tangy ruby red grapefruit. The shop opens at the start of citrus season in October and welcomes visitors daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. through April.

Beyond fresh fruit, the shop’s shelves overflow with local honey, small-batch jams, old-fashioned candies, and other comforting treats. It makes checking items off your gift list a breeze— whether you are sending a heavy box of sunshine to family up north or bringing home a jar of homemade preserves for weekend pancakes. They ship their harvests straight from the grove, carefully picked, washed, and sorted on the very day they go out so nothing loses its orchard-fresh taste.

Dragon Flower Winery On the other end of Ocala/Marion County, Dragon Flower Winery in Summerfield offers a unique experience with family-fermented wines and artisan charcuterie boards. Their lineup includes everything from crisp favorites like Sauvignon Blanc and Riesling to local muscadines like Carlos and Muscat, plus Zinfandel and a Bourbon Barrel-aged Red. Open Thursday to Sunday, the winery provides a friendly, pet-friendly outdoor space where guests can enjoy tastings and, during cooler months, live music. Their signature infusions include floral styles made with imported hibiscus from Africa, as well as batches with local honey, strawberries, and blueberries.

Ocala/Marion County is packed with homegrown flavors and stories around every corner. Discover how our neighboring communities turn simple outings into memorable, delicious adventures.

Visit OcalaMarion.com to explore even more unique culinary experiences.

84 | SEPTEMBER 2026 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

Follow Rotary On Facebook

COMMUNITY SERVICE • STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL - Cooking and serving pancakes at Habitat for Humanity’s Strawberry Festival.

LITERACY

Kiwanis Club of Ocala provides a positive influence and creates opportunities for local children to be curious, safe and healthy.

Please join us at one of our meetings to network and highlight local community speakers.

• READING IS FUNDAMENTAL - Provides 1 free book to each student in selected schools, 3 times a year, to encourage and improve reading skills.

• REACH OUT AND READ - Encourages parents to provide appropriate reading material to very young children.

• BUGS - Improving grades of non-honor roll students • CF SCHOLARSHIPS - Promote continuing education

HEALTH AND SAFETY • • • • •

SWIM CLASSES - Reduce accidental drowning of children.

SADD - Students Against Destructive Decisions BACK PACKS - Providing back-to-school supplies CAR SEATS - Preventing child traffic deaths HYGIENE KITS - Providing kits to the school system for homeless children.

List is not inclusive

Ocala Elk’s Club 702 NE 25th Ave., Ocala Every Friday, 12:00 P.M. - 1:00 P.M.

Club Satellite — Mimi’s Cafe 4414 SW College Rd., Ocala 1st Monday of the month, 6:00 P.M.

The Rotary Clubs of Marion County:

Giving Back Through Service Rotary’s 2 official mottoes are: • Service Above Self • He Profits Most Who Serves Best Rotary International serves to bring together business and professional leaders to provide humanitarian services and to advance goodwill and peace not only in their own communities, but around the world. There are over 35,000 member clubs worldwide and over 1.2 million individuals known as Rotarians.

To learn more about joining Rotary, please visit RotaryInternational.com Follow Rotary On Facebook

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last look PHOTOGRAPHY BY HANNAH DURHAM

“Food is our common ground, a universal experience.”

—James Beard

86 | SEPTEMBER 2026 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

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