Ocala News
Alex Sosa, B.B. Graphics
“Flying influences everything I do in life, including how I run my business.”
CEP partner Alex Sosa draws clear parallels between how he runs B.B. Graphics and how he approaches aviation.
“Being a captain teaches you leadership in its purest form,” he says, stressing the importance of details. “When people’s lives are in your hands, your decisions carry real weight. I approach business the same way—making sure our product is top-quality, our team is well-trained, and every client’s experience is seamless.”
Away from the office, it’s up, up, and away for Alex, who has built an unshakeable bond with the friendly skies starting the moment he received his high school diploma.
“I began my flight training right out of high school and aviation has taken me places I probably never would have seen otherwise.”
Flying runs deep in Alex’s family, as multiple family members have spent time in the cockpit. Continue reading
Following a comprehensive national search led by the CEP’s Executive Committee, McCormick was selected for his proven leadership, deep expertise in business and community development, and strong commitment to advancing the Ocala Metro.
McCormick brings 27 years of chamber and economic development leadership experience, most recently serving as President and CEO of the Columbia Chamber of Commerce in Columbia, Missouri. During his tenure, he championed workforce development initiatives, strengthened advocacy efforts at both the local and state level, and expanded the economic impact of the business community.
“On behalf of the board, we are thrilled to welcome Matt McCormick as the next leader of the CEP,” said Charisse Rivers, Chair of the Board. “What excites us most is not only his vision and energy, but his heart for people and community. We believe Matt will inspire collaboration, champion innovation, and carry forward the CEP’s mission of making Ocala and Marion County a place where families, leaders, and businesses can thrive for generations to come.”
In his new role, McCormick will lead the CEP’s strategic initiatives, partner engagement, advocacy efforts, and economic development programs to support businesses across the region.
“I am honored to be named President and CEO of the Ocala Metro Chamber & Economic Partnership and to have the opportunity to serve this organization, the business community, and the region,” said McCormick. “The CEP has a tremendous foundation of supporting business growth and development, and I look forward to working with our team, partners, and community leaders to build an even stronger economic future for the region.”
The CEP also extends its deep appreciation to Interim CEO and Chief eXperience Officer Tamara Fleischhaker for her leadership and guidance throughout the transition.
Photo by Mabe Media
Ocala, FL The Ocala Metro Chamber & Economic Partnership’s (CEP) Equine Initiative, presented by Pyranha Animal Health, is proud to announce the All-Breed Horse Capital of the World® Parade, taking place Saturday, October 4, at 10 a.m. in Downtown Ocala.
Presented by Pat Myers Electric, the parade will bring together horses of all breeds and disciplines to showcase the heart of the community and highlight one of the many reasons why Ocala/Marion County is recognized as the Horse Capital of the World®.
Spectators are encouraged to line the official parade route—which will include the Downtown Square and Citizens’ Circle—to enjoy a unique and family-friendly celebration of the equine industry.
“Being the only Chamber in the world that we know of that has an initiative like this is pretty special and we believe that this All-Breed Horse Parade through the downtown of ‘the horse capital’ best showcases the diversity of breeds who call Ocala/Marion County home. While always keeping the goal in mind of introducing non-horse people and the next generation to as many of the over 70 breeds in our community, who make up a 4.3-billion-dollar industry, we are almost certain to also provide the best in equine edutainment,” said Louisa Barton, Director of Equine Engagement at the Ocala Metro CEP.
The Ocala Police Department is partnering with the CEP to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all attendees.
The All-Breed Horse Capital of the World® Parade is part of the CEP’s Equine Initiative, presented by Pyranha Animal Health, which works to strengthen the region’s position as a global equestrian hub. The CEP would also like to thank
Wilmek Construction for their support of this event. Continue reading
Ocala, FL –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.
“I am so proud of the whole Turnpike Cup Family,” said Searcy. “TPC is all about competition, camaraderie and giving back. This was our 7th season and we have no signs of slowing down. I’m already planning next year’s season, we are heading to The Players Stadium Course at TPC Sawgrass.” Continue reading
Suspect Arrested in Mall Shooting
A suspect was identified and arrested in the December 23, 2023, Paddock Mall shooting in Ocala.
Details on the suspect and the case:
– Suspect: was arrested on January 8, 2024, after a 16-day manhunt. He is charged with premeditated first-degree murder and two counts of attempted second-degree murder.
– Victim: The shooting resulted in the death of 40-year-old man. Two other people were also injured.
– Motive: According to police,The suspect and the victim knew each other and had an ongoing conflict, suggesting the shooting was targeted.
– Capture:Suspect was apprehended at a home southwest of Ocala after a standoff with law enforcement, which included the Ocala Police Department and the U.S. Marshals Service.
– Status of the case: Suspect has pleaded not guilty, and prosecutors are seeking the death penalty. His trial is currently scheduled to begin in June 2025.
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
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
