Ocala, FL – (Sep. 10, 2025) – The Reilly Arts Center is proud to announce that the Country Club of Ocala’s Turnpike Cup Awards has raised $15,000 in support of the Reilly’s mission to bring world-class performances, music education, and cultural opportunities to Marion County.
The Turnpike Cup has grown from a friendly competition of eight players into a highly organized event with 28 members competing annually in a spirited Ryder Cup-style format. Founded by Bill Searcy, the Turnpike Cup is more than just a golf tournament – it has become a community of players and families who rally together year-round for camaraderie, competition, and philanthropy. Continue reading
(NAPSI)—Once the grass gets its final cut and the leaves are handled, it’s time to swap out the mower, blower, and trimmer for the snow thrower, generator, and chainsaw. The Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI) says a little prep now can mean less stress—and fewer repair bills—later.
“Your end-of-season routine sets the stage for when the weather turns colder,” says Kris Kiser, President and CEO of OPEI, an international trade association representing manufacturers and suppliers of outdoor power equipment, small engines, battery power systems, portable generators, utility and personal transport vehicles, and golf cars. Continue reading
We are in an ideological war between good and evil. The assassination of Charlie Kirk yet again reveals to us we are battling for the soul of this nation.
When wondering how we got to this place, look no further than our institutions which have been infiltrated with Marxist ideals. In addition, governmental abuse by a political party that propagates the frameworks that create the impetus for violence. Recently, in a Senate oversight hearing, Chairman Chuck Grassley, outlined evidence of Biden’s weaponization of his FBI to target nearly 100 conservative groups to include Charlie Kirk’s Turning Point USA. In 2022, Biden’s DOJ started “Artic Frost,” which was an avenue to investigate Republicans without warrant. Continue reading
By Tamara Fleischhaker
Our team recently traveled to Philadelphia for the ACCE (Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives) Annual Convention, where chamber leaders from across the country gathered to share ideas, explore new strategies, and challenge each other to think bigger about how we can drive growth and prosperity in our communities.
Philadelphia provided a fitting backdrop for these discussions. The city’s history of leadership and resilience, combined with its ongoing efforts to innovate and grow, set the stage for practical conversations about how chambers can better serve their communities and position them for long-term success.
Common themes from the ACCE ’25 convention:
Talent Development – Chambers everywhere are wrestling with workforce gaps. We saw creative ways to prepare the next generation of leaders and connect young professionals with meaningful opportunities. Continue reading
(OCALA, FL.) Sept. 17, 2025 – At approximately 11:41 a.m., Ocala Fire Rescue units were dispatched to reports of a structure fire at Fort King Middle School, 545 NE 17th Ave. As fire units were en route, school staff swiftly evacuated students to ensure the safety of everyone on campus. During the evacuation process, one student fell and was subsequently transported to the hospital for evaluation; fortunately, no injuries resulted from the fire. Upon entering, firefighters observed haze filling both the bathroom and the hallway. To guarantee that the fire had been completely extinguished, they doused the area once more. The Fire Prevention Division, the Ocala Police Department, and Marion County Fire Rescue also responded to the incident.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
By Christine Calvert
I was born and raised in Ocala. I’ve grown up watching Ocala grow to be The Horse Capital of the World and The Villages become one of the largest retirement communities in the US. I grew up on the dirt roads and playing in the open fields, where homes and businesses stand today.
I’ve been a Florida licensed insurance agent for over 20 years, specializing in Medicare plans. In my years in insurance, I’ve seen many changes affecting the lives of Medicare recipients. Plans change year to year but I pride myself on being the constant, for my clients, in the dynamic Medicare market. They can count on me being here year to year, as an advocate as well as a resource for Medicare insurance.
My insurance career is a part of my life and my business. My business philosophy is treating my clients as I’d want my own parents treated. Because of this, my clients are my strongest advertisement. They are comfortable referring their friends and family to me for guidance. I am very proud of this and never take it for granted.
Christine Calvert, Licensed Benefit Consultant
1737 SW 17th Street, Ocala, FL 34471
Office – 352-401-5611: Cell – 352-572-8510: Fax – 352-390-6400
Colonel Nick Navetta served thirty years in the U.S. Army and retired in 2010 from his last duty position as the Training Division Chief for U.S. Special Operations Command. He is a Veteran of Desert Shield/Desert Storm, Operation Joint Forge in Bosnia, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Operation Enduring Freedom. Colonel Navetta is branch-qualified in Field Artillery, Combat Military Police, and Civil Affairs. His awards include the Army Achievement Medal with 3 oak leaf clusters, the Army Commendation Medal with 3 oak leaf clusters, the Army Meritorious Service Medal, the Bronze Star Medal, and the Legion of Merit Medal. Continue reading
The Lady Lake Area Chamber of Commerce hosted its 9th Annual Business to Business Expo. 50 businesses were in attendance for this speed networking event, with a twist. Vendors had the opportunity to market to local businesses and the community, and as part of their vendor fee, they also received an updated headshot. Thank you to our event sponsors: Water Oak Country Club Estates, Merideth Nagel and The Legacy Legal Team & Concierge Title, Trustco Bank. Thank you to our headshot sponsor: Citizens First Bank.
I love the terms “Forward Momentum” “What’s Next?” “Moving Forward” “Fast Forward” it is a mind set for all businesses and Social media. I think we need to keep in mind to help others in our daily lives and they will help you back. I can’t do every request but I will try to do as many as I can.
——————–
Putin won’t be happy until he owns Ukraine. The countries around him are going to fight! Maybe he will get the idea, maybe he won’t mean while more of his people and Ukraines people will die. They can win against Putin if they stick together unless China gets involved. Then I think we will get involved and the escalation is very dangerous. Remember China want’s Russia’s land so Russia better be careful.
——————–
Where is all this going to stop. The fighting by position’s is making our country look like fools. Some of the things the Dem’s in. My opinion they want to side with the criminals then let into this country. Dems grow up! Do what is good for your voter. The Democratic voters don’t want to vote for a communist or a fool that let his state burn. The coast line is just a burnt mess and he is not helping the people who pay him. He is not a good Governor! The Dem’s are trying to make illegals voters by Hook or by Crook! We will have to make sure people who are here illegally cannot vote. They do NOT have RIGHTS as per our constitution! They are criminals by invading our country.
——————– Continue reading
