Recently, my wife and I were invited to attend a dinner event. It was a lovely evening, and we were sat at a table with a gentleman to my right whom I had not previously met. I introduced myself and approximately 90 seconds later I heard, “Let me ask you – what are they building . . . ?” I answered his question and the follow-up questions. Welcome to a day (and night) in the life of the CEO of the CEP!
Questions
First, and I want to make this abundantly clear, please ask me your questions. I love to meet people and I am absolutely delighted when people stop to talk on the street, at a bar or restaurant, in the mall, in the gym, etc. I want you to introduce yourself and I always want people to feel free to ask their questions.
What questions am I asked? Well, usually they are around growth and development though they sometimes wander into other areas. Here are some of the most common questions –
What are they building now at World Equestrian Center? (hotel #2, the Special Events Center, the Shoppes at 80th, Arena 6. Basically, I can just make up answers to this question and it will probably eventually be correct).
What is going up behind Market Street? (two different multi-family developments)
What’s happening with the Mall? (it is 100% leased, has several additional national tenants moving in in 2024, and is set for another record year in sales per sq ft and visitors)
Did that cannabis company ever build their facility? (which one? Usually, the one people are referencing is GTI or Green Thumb Industries. They demolished the former Mark III complex and phase I of their facility is built and operational.)
Are we ever getting a Costco? (I really, truly, honestly wished I knew the answer to this question)
POV: Ocala
I truly love being able to answer people’s questions. Our community is growing so quickly, and we have so many incredible things happening it is hard to keep track even for me. However, I do not want you to feel like you need to hunt me down to stay informed.
The CEP created POV:Ocala presented by Ocala Flooring to help educate and inform our community. This video series posts new episodes twice a month (2nd and 4th Wednesdays) and allows me the opportunity to share about 3 new developments, businesses, and/or stats. If you are one of those people who likes being “in the know” then POV: Ocala presented by Ocala Flooring is for you! The videos are posted on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIN.
Take aways
Two key take aways from this column – please stop me, introduce yourself, and ask your questions! Watch POV: Ocala presented by Ocala Flooring so you can amaze your friends at your next get together with all your insider knowledge.
