November Junk In The Trunk At Browns Farm

This Giant Community Yard Sale, Junk In The Trunk, will be back on Saturday, November 4th, 7:30 am - 1 pm!

Located just south of Brown's Country Market on Hwy 301, this is the perfect event for people who love yard sales, and flea markets and looking for a bargain!

There will be 250+ sellers with all sorts of clear-out and yard sale-type items - it's different every time. There will also be a variety of food trucks to fuel everyone, which will add to the already great atmosphere!

If you are looking to sell it's REALLY easy as there's no need to register - just show up between 5:30 am and 7:30 am to set up.

Bring your own tables, chairs, shade, etc.

It's free to shop and park and there is a small fee for sellers depending on the size of the vehicle you are selling out of:

Cars - $15

Trucks/SUVs/Jeeps - $20

Vans/Trailers - $25

Foodies Everywhere, Mark Your Calendar!

This weekend will be devoted to food at the World Equestrian Center. That’s right, the Ocala Food and Wine Festival is back!

The 2023 event is a celebrity-chef-led celebration featuring three days of culinary competition, beer, wine, and spirits education, and samples of extraordinary cuisine.

There will be break-out classes, tastings, and a jazz brunch, it will be incredible!

Why am I telling you about it now? Well, the Five-Star Experience for all three days at $495 is *SOLD OUT*

But there is still time to get tickets for individual days. You can get your tickets at Ocalafoodandwinefest.com and remember before you buy, this is a 21 and over event.

The 42nd Annual Chili Cook-Off!

Ocala's most anticipated, most fun Fall event is back! The 42nd Annual Marion County Chili Cook-Off will be held this Saturday, November 4 from 10 am-5 pm at the Southeastern Livestock Pavilion. This year's event includes a car show, a children's area with bounce houses galore and carnival-style games, the best bake sale ever, a beer booth, live music, and amazing competition chili. All proceeds from the event benefit The Cornerstone School in Ocala.

I will be there again this year with an even bigger and better booth hoping to win your vote for best booth, oh yeah, and best chili of course!

We hope to see you out there, so don’t forget to stop over and say: “Hi!” I’ll be the one in the hula skirt!

Chase Involving Stolen Street Sweeper Truck

My sincere apologies folks. I don’t know how I missed this story but I did and it was too good not to share.

Earlier this month, an Ocala woman, 23-year-old E’Dajha Dyesha Lee, was arrested for driving a stolen sweeper truck. You heard me right. The truck had been taken from Sumter County but was spotted in Ocala shortly after the theft. Deputies attempted to stop the vehicle, leading to a four-minute chase. Eventually, the truck stopped near Juniper Road and Southeast Baseline Road, and Lee was arrested.

The Marion County Sheriff’s Office released body camera and dashcam footage of the incident which is now available online if you’re interested in watching one of the oddest police chases I’ve seen in a while.

Big shout out to our local Marion County Sheriff’s Dept for, ahem, cleaning up our streets.

Annual Ocala Art Festival This Weekend!

The annual Ocala Arts Festival celebrates the stunning pieces of talented artists from around the country, showcasing the creations of more than 150 artists. This event is organized by the Fine Arts for Ocala Organization and will be held in downtown Ocala. The festival features an array of art selections, mouthwatering eats, live performances, and more. Whether you’re looking for exciting things to do or seeking new ways to dive into Ocala’s art scene, this event offers unforgettable fun for all festival goers.

This pet-friendly festival includes many family-friendly activities and stunning works of art. Make your way to appetizing meals, engaging entertainment, and vivid paintings.

Food trucks will be located throughout the grounds of the event, as well as near the Citizens’ Circle and the Marion Theatre.

The Ocala Arts Festival will include kid-friendly entertainment and live performances. Tap your feet to infectious beats and listen to local bands play at the Downtown Gazebo. Watch thrilling dance members at Citizens’ Circle and be immersed in performances by local students. Bring your little ones to a variety of engaging activities, ranging from face painting to an arts and crafts tent.

Visitors can find parking throughout Ocala’s downtown area.

This event will be held from October 28 to 29 and it will run from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

This event is free and open to the public.

Flamingo Scavenger Hunt!

Join Ocala Cultural Arts to find the FAFO flamingo???? inside local downtown shops at the annual Ocala Arts Festival by Fine Arts For Ocala, Inc. (FAFO) (@fine_arts_for_ocala) on October 28 and 29! Find the FAFO flamingo, and win prizes!

To participate and collect prizes, first, find the Art Tent on the downtown square during the  FAFO Arts Festival and get the details. This family fun event is free to attend & and open to the public!

For more information about the event visit: www.FAFO.org.

Hot Pot Has Come To Ocala!

The eagerly awaited KPOT, the new hot pot restaurant located across from Walmart on Easy Street is now open!

Open daily for lunch and dinner in its fancy new home. Formerly the Logan's Roadhouse, located at 2621 SW 19th Avenue Rd the KPOT restaurant has been completely remodeled from top to bottom.

If you have never been to a hot pot restaurant don’t worry, many in Ocala have not yet enjoyed the all-you-can-eat family-style restaurant. There are several servers there, on hand to walk you through it and show you around.

The first thing to remember is not to rush the hot pot. It is an Asian dining experience that is meant to be savored and enjoyed with family and friends. When you are seated, you will be presented with a selection of broths, some are mild like the tomato, or my favorite, the mushroom broth. Some are spicy and can add a real kick to your meal. Once you select your broths, you will go to the buffet and choose what you will add to your pot. There is a freezer with a selection of very thinly sliced raw meats, and typical buffet-style treys but with uncooked vegetables and noodles. There is also a large sauce buffet so that you can dip your meal into a variety of flavors. When you bring your raw ingredients back to your table, you will see that your server has set up your individual pots on hotplates built into the table. Then you just add your ingredients, wait a few minutes, and then begin to fish out the various meats and vegetables and dipping them into your sauces. While you will be offered chopsticks you can ask for silverware. You will also have bowls and plates, but I’m a heathen and eat quite a bit directly from the pot. If I had to explain it simply, it’s like an Asian fondue restaurant, but without the cheese. It’s also apparently something you really must experience for yourself. Expect to pay around $25 per person for the hot pot and a little more if you also do the Korean BBQ which uses the grill in the middle of the table and offers a large selection of marinated meats from a separate section of the buffet.

It’s a really fun and interactive dining experience. If you go, don’t forget to let others know what you thought of it all as well as your advice on how to hot pot. Leave your comments on our Facebook page.

Officer Involved Shooting In The Shores

At around 7:00 p.m. Tuesday night an MCSO deputy conducted a traffic stop on a dirt bike near the intersection of SE Maricamp Road and Emerald Road in Silver Springs Shores. The driver of the dirt bike fled on foot toward a field where a kid's football practice was being held. While attempting to escape, the suspect reached for a gun he was openly carrying on his hip, resulting in the deputy firing his service weapon.

Families at the football practice were less than a few hundred yards away. They heard the shots and were immediately running away from the scene without knowing really what was going on, or if they were in danger.

The suspect never opened fire and his gun was recovered at the scene. The suspect was rushed to a local hospital in critical condition.

We are deeply saddened to share that the suspect, identified as 26-year-old Rasheem Edwards, succumbed to his injuries while receiving treatment at the hospital. Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time.

FDLE (Florida Department of Law Enforcement) has been contacted and will be conducting a thorough investigation into the shooting. As is standard practice, the deputy involved has been placed on paid administrative leave.

A word to all of our dedicated deputies but especially the one involved:

Thank you for your unwavering dedication to keeping our community safe, even when faced with difficult decisions. We recognize the tough choices you have to make in the line of duty, and we appreciate your bravery. Your professionalism and quick thinking in challenging situations are a testament to your training and dedication. Please take care of yourself, and know that we as a community are here to support you during both the difficult and rewarding moments of your service.

Marion County School Bus Driver Crisis

Adult Acting Classes This Winter At OCT!

A five-week class with a maximum of eight students is available starting in January.

This class helps students to develop an appreciation for the entire process of acting. It differs from foundational acting studies as it focuses on applying acting techniques to specific scene performances. Actors will improve their ability to craft characters, try different things in a low-pressure environment, explore different techniques, and refine skills such as timing, listening, reacting, etc. The class also helps actors learn how to take direction and improve communication with coaches, directors, and casting directors.

INSTRUCTOR: Greg Thompson

CLASS MEETING TIME: Sundays, January 7 - February 4 • 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.

TUITION: $75

Horse Fever

Foodies Everywhere, Mark Your Calendar!

The first weekend in November will be devoted to food at the World Equestrian Center. That’s right, the Ocala Food and Wine Festival is back!

The 2023 event is a celebrity-chef-led celebration featuring three days of culinary competition, beer, wine and spirits education and samples of extraordinary cuisine.

There will be break out classes, tastings, a jazz brunch, it will be incredible!

Why am I telling you about it now? Well, the Five-Star Experience for all three days at $495 is *SOLD OUT*

But there is still time to get tickets for individual days. You can get your tickets at Ocalafoodandwinefest.com and remember before you buy, this is a 21 and over event.

The 42nd Annual Chili Cook-Off!

Ocala's most anticipated, most fun Fall event is back! The 42nd Annual Marion County Chili Cook-Off will be held on Saturday, November 4 from 10 am-5 pm at the Southeastern Livestock Pavilion. This year's event includes a car show, a children's area with bounce houses galore and carnival-style games, the best bake sale ever, a beer booth, live music, and amazing competition chili. All proceeds from the event benefit The Cornerstone School in Ocala. I will be there again this year with an even bigger and better booth hoping to win your vote for best booth oh yeah and best chili of course! We hope to see you out there, so don’t forget to stop over and say: “Hi!” I’ll be the one in the hula skirt!

Brown's Fall Craft Fair 2023!

Located at Brown & Brown Farms and as part of the Brown's Fall Fest & Mega Maze season, this craft fair is FREE to park and shop.

On Sunday, beginning at 12 p.m. and running until 6 p.m., this craft fair will have over 100 vendors and a variety of food trucks.

Located outside on the beautiful farm, take in all things Fall as you wander amongst the variety of vendors selling their crafty creations! Expect everything from Fall wreaths and decorations to handmade jewelry, wooden signs, homemade baked goods, and much more!

Don’t forget that you can take time out to get lost in the massive maze they have there as well!

What a great way to spend a Sunday afternoon!

College Campus At West Port High School Removed

If your child is in the dual enrollment program in a Marion County Public School via CF, the times they are a-changin’! The biggest of these is at West Port High School. According to sources at West Port High School yesterday there were a lot of questions and no answers regarding the program ending abruptly at the end of this school year. As confirmed by the CF dual enrollment office yesterday, no child on campus will be able to attend their CF courses at West Port.

Those currently enrolled in the program will need to be transported back and forth between high school and CF or will be utilizing online classes only.

According to a press release from CF regarding changes to the program, students going forward will be offered a stronger focus on workforce careers.

Dr. Diane Gullett, superintendent of Marion County Public Schools said: “The partnership between College of Central Florida and Marion County Public Schools will prepare students for careers that are in high demand in our community leading to local employment.”

It also looks like the opportunity to graduate high school with an Associate's Degree in hand is no longer an option for any Marion County Public School student.

According to the superintendent: “Students will apply to the CF Collegiate Academy in 2024 as a magnet program in eighth grade, remain at their base high school in grades 9 and 10 while completing required high school courses, and then become a full-time dual enrollment student at the CF Ocala Campus or online in grades 11 and 12. Academy students choose from an A.A. or A.S. pathway and make progress toward a degree.

This all came as a shock to students, faculty, and shockingly the principal of West Port who was one of the last to know about the upcoming changes to the school.

While the idea of a new magnet school at CF is exciting, there are more details not being discussed. A major concern is transportation. There is currently a severe school bus driver shortage in Marion County that is leaving children stranded and overworking our current bus drivers with up to 4 routes each, with no end in sight.

If you have a student this may affect, please contact Eric Cummings your District 3 representative, or Dr. Diane Gullett the superintendent at (352) 671-7700

CEP’s Business After Hours

A community staple for over 3-decades, Business After Hours is the CEP's cornerstone networking event.  It's held on the 3rd Thursday of each month. Join several hundred fellow CEP partners for casual networking, along with food, beverage, & and door prizes.

Thursday, October 19, 2023 5:00 - 7:00

Gulf Atlantic Bank

1626 SE 36th Ave

If you aren’t yet a member of the Chamber and Economic Partnership but would like some info visit them online at OcalaCEP.com

CEP’s Business After Hours

Brown's Fall Craft Fair 2023!

Located at Brown & Brown Farms and as part of the Brown's Fall Fest & Mega Maze season, this craft fair is FREE to park and shop.

On Sunday, beginning at 12 p.m. and running until 6 p.m., this craft fair will have over 100 vendors and a variety of food trucks.

Located outside on the beautiful farm, take in all things Fall as you wander amongst the variety of vendors selling their crafty creations! Expect everything from Fall wreaths and decorations to handmade jewelry, wooden signs, homemade baked goods, and much more!

Don’t forget that you can take time out to get lost in the massive maze they have there as well!

What a great way to spend a Sunday afternoon!

Federal Student Loan Payments Are Now Due!

Rage Room Now Open In Ocala!

I don’t know about you, but I’ve never felt the need to smash things during an argument. But the idea of a rage room sounds irresistible! Smash Lab of Ocala is now open and operating at 626 S PINE AVE. A lot of individuals have already visited to let loose some aggression on unsuspecting wine glasses, china, and even office equipment. But it looks like this is becoming an office bonding experience as well! If you are interested in 10 or 15 minutes of safe destruction, you can visit their Facebook Page: “Smash Lab of Ocala” to find out more or to book an appointment. I’ll see you there!

Ribbon Cutting!

Taylor College will celebrate its new campus with a ribbon cutting ceremony hosted by the Ocala CEP at 11 a.m. on Tues, Oct 17. Food and refreshments will be available after the ribbon cutting. The public is invited to attend. Tours of the new facility will be given from 11:30 am – 1:00 pm.

Taylor College is an allied health career school offering Associate of Science degree programs in Professional Nursing and Physical Therapist Assistant, as well as diploma programs in Medical Assisting and Practical Nursing. Their new location is at: Taylor College 2531 East Silver Springs Boulevard. To register for the CEP open house, just visit OcalaCEP.com

Do you love walking around downtown Ocala but hate the walking part of it? Well, thanks to Ocala Main Street you can skip some of that. The soft launch of the free downtown trolley cart service has been a huge success! Some seem to be confused as to why people are driving around a couple of golf carts offering rides to people walking down the street. That gets cleared up quickly with the clearly marked signs all over each of the four-seater carts. In its debut on Sept. 15 and 16, more than 150 people rode on the trolley carts.

The carts were donated by Cart World and they have committed to donating six-seater golf carts when the need arises, which based on performance so far, has the potential of happening soon.

The service is free since it is provided by volunteers. If you would like to volunteer your Friday or Saturday night from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. to provide some much-needed transportation to your neighbors here in Ocala, contact Ocala Main Street on their Facebook page. I’ve already signed up for a Saturday night, so maybe one of those drivers offering you a ride this month will be me!

Two Rivers Music Festival

Tomorrow’s music festival in Dunnellon offers not only several live bands spread out throughout town, but also craft vendors, and food trucks, along with a beer tent all for the 2023 Two Rivers Music Festival & Food Truck Rally on Saturday, Oct 14 from 5-10 p.m.

I will be out at 20540 E. Pennsylvania Ave giving out swag bags courtesy of Great Expectations Realty, so stop out and say: “Hi!”

3rd Annual Bark In The Park

The Senior Resource Foundation has a fun and exciting event on Sunday benefiting Marion Senior Services and Marion County Animal Services. Come to the 3rd Annual Bark In The Park - A Doggy Expo that will happen on Sunday, October 15, from 1 PM to 4 PM, at the Ocala Downtown Market. FREE TO THE PUBLIC!

Share a variety of vendors, pet adoption opportunities, food trucks, a furry costume contest, and of course my crazy redheaded dog Lucy and I will be out there as well, so please consider stopping out for all of the tail-wagging fun!

Dazed In The Maze

This has to be the best thing I’ve seen all year. Tomorrow you can stop out at Brown’s Farm and find local wineries and breweries hidden within the massive corn maze that are offering free samples. I want to go just to see how many people get lost!

This is happening both Saturday and Sunday from 2 pm to 6 pm.

Ocala Named Safe From Hurricanes & Flooding In The WSJ

The Wall Street Journal came out with an article on October 4th where they asked Climate Alpha—a company that uses AI to build forecasting models based on data from the Federal Emergency Management Agency related to past events, predictions of future weather, an analysis of local government disaster policies, and infrastructure, including hospital beds—to come up with a list of areas in Florida with the least combined risk from hurricanes, flooding and strong winds.

The winner for lowest risk of hurricane damage and coastal flooding: Ocala

Food Needed

Marion Senior Services is seeking donations of nonperishable food items to help replenish the pantries of senior citizens. Please consider helping them with donations today!

Donations can be dropped off at 1101 SW 20th Court, Ocala. For more information, call (352) 620-3501.

World's Oldest Skydiver!

Chalk It Up!

Ocala Cultural Arts presents the first annual OTrak Chalk Walk as part of the Tuscawilla Art Park Series. Enjoy watching professional artists create unique chalk drawings along the OTrak for a chance to win: Best in Show, Second Place, and People’s Choice. First Place will receive $500, Second Place and People’s Choice Award will receive $250 each.

This free event will also have food trucks and other local vendors, along with, live musical performances by Evelyn Mohammed, The Mudds, Ecliff, Fareeza, and Becky Baby.

Families and friends are invited to draw their own chalk art with provided supplies for $10 (cash only) as well as vote for People’s Choice.

The theme for the 2024 OTrak Chalk Walk is “O, The Places We’ll Go.” A travel and transportation theme inspired by the OTrak pathway linking City Hall to the Tuscawilla Art Park. This competition is open to artists currently working and residing in the state of Florida.

Chalk artists interested in applying to compete in OTrak Chalk Walk must fully complete the provided application. Entries can be submitted online, via email to artinfo@ocalafl.gov, or mailed to the City of Ocala Cultural Arts, 201 SE 3rd St., 2nd Floor, Ocala, FL 34471. It is FREE to apply.

The deadline for applications is December 15, 2023.

Sold!

Puppy Perfect Boutique!

In the southwest area of Ocala, a recently launched pet boutique has made its debut. Located at: 8075 SW State Rd 200 Unit 124 Ocala FL 34481 Petit Poodle Pet Boutique held its grand opening celebration on Saturday, September 23. This establishment is under the ownership and management of Morgan Kappie, offering a range of top-notch pet products and a wide array of pet-related services. The boutique showcases an assortment of high-quality gourmet treats and pet food. Apart from nourishment, the shop also carries an array of items such as leads, attire, and accessories, available in various colors and styles.

Happy Anniversary!

A store in Ocala, located at Six Gun Plaza, is about to mark its first-year anniversary. The establishment, known as Sandy's Shack Imported Wine & Beer, is under the ownership and management of Sandra Tremblay and Alexandre Menard. With a spacious 3,000-square-foot area, this shop proudly offers a wide selection of beverages, featuring around 466 unique varieties of wine and an extensive collection of over 400 imported craft beers. Stop on out if you are in the area and congratulate them!

Well-Needed Upgrade.

Ocala officials are considering a $900,000 laptop upgrade to replace outdated devices that can't support Windows 11. The decision was voted on October 3 at the Ocala City Council meeting. The proposal, presented by Christopher Ramos, aims to improve IT efficiency and security citywide, enabling remote and in-office work. The upgrade includes 72 new laptops and 25 desktops for the Ocala Police Department. Total cost: approximately $941,590.

You may well ask: “What happens to all of the outdated equipment?” Normally it goes up for auction on sites like PublicSurplus.com Sites like these also are where public schools and other government entities send their outdated equipment for reuse.

Kayaks & Koffee

On Friday, October 13, participants are set to gather at Brick City Adventure Park for the Kayaks and Koffee event. This outing promises a leisurely paddle down the lower Wekiva River to Kings Landing, one of the numerous streams running into the Wekiva River basin.  The event is open to novices and experts alike, but the Parks and Recreation Department suggests that participants have a fundamental understanding of paddling principles and swimming skills, prior to the event.

5th Annual Carnival

Marion County Parks & Recreation welcomes you to their 5th Annual Carnival tomorrow at the SE Livestock Pavilion! Join them for an evening of fall fun with games, candy, music, food trucks, giveaways, and much much more!

This is happening on Saturday from 5-9 pm!

Mellow Mushroom

Downtown Ocala's highly-awaited Mellow Mushroom restaurant, a construction project in progress since 2019, is almost ready to open its doors! The historic "Davis/Goldman Block Building," originally built in 1891, was demolished in 2020 after finding severe structural issues. The multi-story Goldman Building, where the restaurant will soon call home. There will be another restaurant on the rooftop which promises amazing views while dining.

Cops and Cars

Saturday, October 21st from 10 am-2 pm, law enforcement officers in Ocala and Marion County are extending an invitation to the community to join them for the 5th annual Cops & Cars car and truck show, benefitting the Chief Greg Graham Legacy Foundation.

This family-friendly event promises a fun-filled day for everyone! Bring your loved ones and enjoy an impressive display of classic and modern cars, delicious food trucks, vendors, music, and more.

FREE admission to spectators!

Detour!

Drivers in the southeast Ocala area should be prepared for a temporary road closure near the intersection of SE 17th Street and Lake Weir Avenue, commencing on Sunday, October 1, and continuing through Sunday, October 15. As per the City of Ocala, this closure, spanning two weeks, is essential for the replacement of the current sewer force main. The closure hours will be from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m., with all required traffic diversion measures in place. While construction is underway, commuters may encounter occasional delays, noise, dust, and the presence of heavy machinery within the construction zone.

Cinderella Castle: Spark of Unexpected Magic

Disney guests at the Magic Kingdom had an unusual experience last week when a small fire near Cinderella Castle disrupted their day. Sirens, an uncommon sound in the park, sounded as Cast Members quickly evacuated the area around this iconic attraction

Shooting In West Marion County Involving A Deputy.

A shooting involving a deputy occurred approximately one mile north of the Dunnellon city limits. The individual sustained injuries that are not considered life-threatening, and fortunately, no deputies were harmed during the incident. The incident unfolded in a wooded area adjacent to U.S. 41. According to officials at the scene, the Marion County Sheriff's Office had previously received service calls related to this particular area. A man had been instructed multiple times to vacate this wooded space, which is part of a 1,300-acre property owned by an out-of-town landowner. Shortly before 9:30 a.m. on Wednesday, deputies responded to the location as part of an ongoing request for assistance. Upon their arrival, a confrontation occurred between the deputies and an individual, resulting in the man being shot. Specific details about the nature of the confrontation have not yet been disclosed.

First Friday Artwalk!

The "First Friday Art Walk" is a recurring event that happens on the initial Friday of every month, running from September to May, between 6 and 9 p.m. This event is entirely free and is situated in the historic downtown area of Ocala. The festivities include an impressive array of more than 30 artist exhibitions, live entertainment performances each month, complimentary family-oriented art activities hosted by local arts organizations, and extended shopping hours. Everyone is welcome to join in and relish an evening filled with art, live shows, and the opportunity to explore the various downtown shops and restaurants. You can begin your artistic journey by picking up a map at the square, which will guide you on a self-directed tour of local artists showcasing their pieces available for purchase right in front of downtown businesses. Along the way, make sure to pause and appreciate the performing artists stationed at various points.

Dinner Time!

In the near future, several dining establishments in Marion County could become more welcoming to our canine companions. The county commissioners have granted their ultimate endorsement to a proposition that permits dogs to accompany their owners in designated outdoor seating sections. To partake in this dog-friendly dining experience, pet owners must adhere to a specific set of guidelines. As part of these regulations, individuals must ensure their dogs remain on a leash at all times, refrain from allowing them on restaurant furniture, and prohibit them from indulging in any food or beverages from restaurant utensils or dishes.

Pam Tillis Acoustic Trio!

Pam Tillis, the child of Country music royalty, was determined to forge her own musical path from a young age as a singer-songwriter. Despite some early setbacks in her recording career, including a pop single with Elektra and the 1984 release "Above And Beyond The Doll Of Cutey" on Warner Brothers, Pam's fortunes changed when she caught the attention of Tim Dubois, who led the Nashville office of Arista records. After careful consideration, Pam committed to creating an authentic country record. Don't miss the chance to see Pam Tillis live at the Riley Arts Center on October 3rd!