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 17^th Street, Ocala, FL 34471

Office – 352-401-5611: Cell – 352-572-8510: Fax – 352-390-6400