LOCAL EVENTS
2010 Spring Parade of Homes (April 17–May 2). The Marion County Building Industry Association’s annual Parade of Homes showcases 18 beautiful homes for potential homebuyers and remodelers to view. Several leading local companies are participating in this year’s event, including Armstrong Homes, Center State Construction, Bennett Construction Services, Dream Custom Homes of Citrus, Florida Leisure Communities, Holiday Builders, Hutchinson Development, ICL Builders Group/Nadeau Construction Unlimited, Marco Polo Homes, Murphy Kaufman Builders, Pulte Homes, and T.L. Carlson Construction. The homes are open Wednesday–Friday, 2–6pm; Saturday, 11am–6pm; and Sunday, 1–5pm. To learn more, visit mcbia.org or call (352) 694-4133.
Lunch & Learn (April 8, 22). Beneficial Hearing Aid Center on 1st Avenue hosts these free seminars about how hearing loss develops and the latest breakthroughs featuring its own doctor of audiology Leigh Ann Watts. Guests will be able to see for themselves how the newest technology works and how it can change their lives. The seminars begin at 11am. Reserve a seat at (352) 629-4418.
Ocala Health System’s Spring Seminar Series (April 9, 16, 23, 30). All this month, the Ocala Health System will host seminars at the Senior Healthcare Center as part of its springtime health series. On April 9 at 2pm, Margaret Shaw of the American Cancer Society will discuss cancer resources and assistance. On April 16 at 2pm, Rob Lester, RD/LD, will discuss nutrition during cancer treatment. Then on April 23 at 2pm, Luis Carrascosa, MD, will talk about the safety of new radiotherapy techniques, and on April 30 at 2pm, Dr. Thomas L. Croley and Catherine Ranges, COT/OST, will discuss the importance of having healthy eyes. Register by calling (800) 530-1188.
“Lift For Life” Bench Press Competition (April 10). This strength competition at The Body Factory Health and Fitness in Belleview is a morning of fun and fitness all to benefit the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life. Registration starts at 8am, followed by the competition at 9am. There is no contest entry fee, but participants are encouraged to collect pledges. thebodyfactoryhealthandfitness.com or (352) 347-7041.
Kids and Seniors Fishing Derby (April 10, 12). Kids and grown-ups discover why fishing is one of the most popular pastimes during this fun- and hopefully fish-filled morning at Tuscawilla Park. The kids’ day takes place from 8am to 12pm on April 10, and the seniors derby takes places from 9am to 12pm on April 12. Admission is free. (352) 368-5550.
Support Our Troops Postage Party (April 11). In an effort to raise money for postage to send care packages to our troops in Iraq and Afghanistan, Ghostrider Saloon in Ocala hosts this Postage Party starting at 2pm and featuring music by Southern Rock Allstars. The boxes of snacks, DVDs, personal items, batteries, and other items have been donated already, so all donations collected will go toward postage to mail them overseas. The saloon is located approximately seven miles south of Ocala on Hwy. 441. ghostriderocala.com, (352) 817-4033, or (352) 687-1770.
CTAE Information Sessions (April 12, 14, 19, 23). Interesting in pursuing a new career? Attend one of CTAE’s information sessions to hear detailed descriptions of a variety of jobs and classes. April 12 at 6pm sessions will be held for administrative assistant, medical administrative specialist, and legal administrative specialists. The radiography session will be held at 4:30pm on April 14, the Allied Health Programs information session will take place at 6pm on April 19, and the welding session will be April 23 at 10am. mcctae.com or (352) 671-7200.
John Edge Lecture (April 14). The Florida Institute for Human & Machine Cognition presents editor/writer John T. Edge as part of its Lecture Series at its location on Osceola Avenue. In his talk, “American Street Food: A Thinking Eater’s Survey,” Edge will discuss the evolution of modern American street food and its impact. The reception begins at 5:30pm, followed by the talk at 6pm. Seating is limited, so reservations are required. (850) 202-4406.
Ocala Civic Theatre Golf Tournament (April 16). Tee off at Candler Hills Golf Club as part of the Ocala Civic Theatre’s 19th annual golf tournament to benefit the theater. The event gets underway with a shotgun start at 1pm, and on-course and door prizes will be awarded. The fee is $75 per player, and a barbecue buffet will be available after play. ocalacivictheatre.com or (352) 236-2274.
Jack Levine Seminar (April 16). The Ocala Chapter of the Florida Public Relations Association welcomes guest speaker Jack Levine to its monthly professional development luncheon at the Ocala Hilton at 11:30am. Levine, a founding member of Voices for America’s Children, presents “Florida’s Four Generations: Ready of Not, Here We Are” about the economic and emotional challenges of the nation’s most multi-generational state. The cost is $25 for guests and $20 for members, and reservations are due by April 12. fpraocala.org or (352) 816-0769.
Dunnellon Boomtown Days (April 16-18). The quaint town of Dunnellon has celebrated the discovery of phosphate in its area in the late 1800s, which caused the subsequent boom in population, for over 30 years. The weekend-long event features a Boom or Bust party, kids’ game area, antique car show, arts and crafts, live music, and the Little Mr. & Miss Dunnellon Pageant. Tickets are $15 per person. dunnellonchamber.org or (352) 489-2320.
Multiple Community Service Fair (April 17). The best of food, health, business, and entertainment will be on display at this community fair at United Methodist Church on Marion Oaks Drive. From 11am to 5pm, local Realtors, healthcare professionals, and others will be on-site with kids’ activities offered and delicious food served. Proceeds from the day benefit the church. (352) 307-3004.
Hurricane and Storm Ready Expo (April 17). Are you ready for hurricane season? Find out at this free, community-wide readiness showcase at the Ocala International Airport. Guests will see hurricane hunter aircraft and the Sheriff Office’s helicopter, watch emergency management and public safety demonstrations, and enjoy good food. The expo runs all day from 9am to 3pm. (352) 369-8100.
Spring Flea Market (April 17). Lots of treasure and lots of good food will be on-site during this springtime flea market at St. Theresa’s Catholic Church in Belleview. Coffee and donuts will give way to hot dogs and hamburgers as the day goes on. Hours are 9am to 2pm. (352) 245-2458.
Dance Show (April 17). Head to Dance, Dance, Dance in Wildwood for a spectacular and elegant evening of dance. This multimedia show, hosted by favorites Pavel Cherdantsau and Svetlana Rudkovskaya, will feature national dancers, and special VIP packages are available. dancedancedance.biz or (352) 748-3279.
Home Buyer/Home Owner Expo (April 17). A collaboration between Marion County, the City of Ocala, local Affordable Housing providers, and other agencies, this annual expo introduces income-eligible buyers to energy-efficient homes at discounted prices in Silver Springs Shores, Marion Oaks, and Rainbow Park. The event takes place at Central Florida Community College’s Webber Center from 10am to 2pm, and admission is free. (352) 671-8770.
M-m-Mel Tillis & Friends Fishing Tournament (April 17). Country music legend Mel Tillis hosts this fourth annual fishing tournament in Steinhatchee that features over 30 ways to win in offshore and inshore categories as well as junior and lady angler categories. The entry fee is $95, and net proceeds benefit Shriners Hospitals for Children. fishingwithmel.com or (352) 362-6691.
Ocala Fire Rescue 125th Anniversary (April 17). Celebrate Ocala Fire Rescue’s 125th anniversary with this day-long, family-friendly event at Tuscawilla Park from 10am to 3pm. The celebration will feature vehicle extrication demonstrations, station tours, an Antique Emergency Vehicle Show, a karate demonstration, live music, face-painting, raffles, and more. (352) 629-8513.
Hearts for Haiti Walk (April 17). Bring your family to the Brick City Park track for a half-hour walk to help the people of Haiti. Hosted by Ocala-based Compassion Alliance, the event will raise money to support its ongoing work in Haiti. Participants will gather at 9am with the walk starting at 9:15am, and the entry fee is $25 per family. ocalaheartsforhaiti.webs.com or (352) 789-6822.
CenturyLink Charity Golf Tournament (April 17). CenturyLink hosts this four-person, best ball scramble format golf tournament at Stone Creek Golf Course to benefit the United Way of Marion County. The deadline for entries is April 9, and the cost is $280 per team. Play gets underway at 8:30am, and prizes will be awarded for on-course achievements. uwmc.org or (352) 368-8825.
Autism Awareness Walk (April 17). This fifth annual, one-mile walk at Jervey Gantt Park benefits New Horizon Academy for Exceptional Students and will feature guest speakers, breakfast after the walk, and prizes for the top team and individual. Registration begins at 7:30am and the cost is $20. The walk begins at 8:30am. (352) 629-1785 or (352) 401-0980.
Hog for Hope Poker Run (April 17). Support ARC Marion by participating in this annual Hog for Hope poker run, starting at Harley-Davidson of Ocala with last bike out at 11:30am and last in at 3pm. The two- to three-hour event takes riders to several stops in Marion County. The cost is $15 per rider, $5 per passenger, and $5 per additional hand, and food, music, raffles, and more is in store. hogforhope.com or (352) 351-2479.
Home Buyer Short Course (April 21, 28, May 5, 19). The Marion County Extension Service presents this home buyer education series to help reduce the stress of purchasing a home. The April 21 class focuses on goal setting, the April 28 class on pre-purchase preparation, the May 5 class on the home buyer team, and the May 19 class on financing and closing. All classes are held from 5:30pm to 8pm at 2232 NE Jacksonville Road, and the $15 registration fee is due by April 14. (352) 671-8400.
Spaghetti Supper (April 22). Buy a delicious spaghetti dinner to support a local school! Eighth Street Elementary’s annual Spaghetti Supper will be held from 4pm to 7pm with drive-through available from 4:30pm to 6:30pm. Tickets are $4 in advance and $5 at the door. (352) 671-7125.
Kara DioGuardi Celebrity Golf Scramble and Gala Dinner (April 24). American Idol judge Kara DioGuardi will play alongside participants in this golf scramble at Golden Hills Golf and Turf Club Golf to benefit Phoenix House in Citra. Golfing gets underway with a shotgun start at 11:45am, and a gala dinner follows that evening at 8pm. The scramble’s tickets are $200 each and dinner tickets are $300. For information on the golf scramble, call (352) 629-7980. For more on the gala dinner, call (352) 629-7981.
ABWA Dinner (April 24). This American Business Women’s Association and Ocala Express Network evening at the Ocala Hilton will feature guest speaker Mary Foley—a radio show host and author—as well as ABWA’s National Secretary-Treasurer Lynn Drowne. Doors open at 6pm, and the $55 ticket price will include dinner, a cash bar, and an autographed book by Foley. Seating is limited. (352) 529-2003.
Earth Day Celebration (April 24). Celebrate the 40th anniversary of Earth Day with Gainesville’s Florida Museum of Natural History and the Harn Museum of Art. Held at the FMNH on UF’s campus from 10am to 3pm, this family-friendly day will feature Earth-inspired entertainment, crafts, games, food, and more. flmnh.ufl.edu or (352) 846-2000.
Taste of Ocala (April 25). Find out what Ocala’s culinary scene has to offer! This 22nd annual scholarship fundraiser, held outside at Central Florida Community College from 12pm to 4pm, features dishes prepared by the area’s finest restaurants and caterers. Advance tickets are $25 for adults, $15 for CFCC students (CFCC ID required at entrance), $15 for kids ages 5–12, and free for kids younger than 5. All tickets are $30 each at the gate. tasteofocala.org or (352) 854-2322.
Emerald Ball (April 30). Trinity Catholic High School’s second annual Emerald Ball, entitled “Run for the Roses,” will be held at Golden Ocala and feature silent and live auctions, an open bar, heavy hors d’oeuvres, live entertainment, and dancing. Proceeds from the $100 ticket price will go to the school and its programs. The evening gets underway at 7pm. trinitycatholichs.org or (352) 622-9025, ext. 5110.
Friends of the Belleview Library Book Sale (April 30-May 1). The Friends of Belleview Library Book Sale will take place from 8am to 5pm at its new location—the Book Nook in the old Belleview Library building on Earp Road, behind Shepherd’s Lighthouse. Thousands of paperback and hardback books will be available to choose from at bargain prices. friends-of-belleview-library.org or (352) 438-2500.
Equine and Wine! (May 1). A festive evening of food sampling and delicious wines from area restaurants, “Equine and Wine!” at the Florida Carriage Museum & Resort invites guests to watch the Kentucky Derby on large screens, dance to live music, relax in the VIP lounge, and visit the carriage museum. Tickets are $55 for general admission and $75 for VIP, and a portion of the proceeds will be donated to Veterans Equine Assisted Therapy Program. 5-10pm. fcmr.org or (352) 750-5500, ext. 221.
Friends of the Ocala Public Library Book Sale (May 1). This quarterly book sale from 10am to 4pm in the main library building on Silver Springs Boulevard features hardcover books in all categories for 50 cents and paperbacks for 25 cents. Arrive early for best selection. (352) 368-4591.
Coach Jimbo Fisher Tour (May 4). The Marion County Seminole Club welcomes Coach Jimbo Fisher to Marion County with a special golf tournament at Golden Hills Golf and Turf Club and dinner banquet at the Ocala Hilton. The tournament, which gets underway at 9am, includes continental breakfast, lunch, drinks, and a goodie bag. The fee is $110 per player. The banquet, which starts with cocktails at 5:30pm and then dinner at 7:15pm, will feature a speech by Coach Fisher as well as a meet-and-greet session. Advance tickets are $45 per adult and $20 per child, and the deadline is April 20. marionseminoles.org or (352) 390-3472.
Ocala Farm & Garden Show (May 8–9). Bring your mom to this second annual show featuring all things farm and gardening at the Ocala Equestrian Complex on 60th Avenue. Plus, plants, plants, and more plants! Admission is free, and the event will be open 9am to 5pm on Saturday and 10am to 4pm on Sunday. (352) 812-0088.
Mid-Florida Duck Derby (May 22). The Children’s Home Society of Florida Ocala Auxiliary invites you to its inaugural Mid-Florida Duck Derby at Tuscawilla Park. Held from 11am to 4pm, the event will feature vendors, food, family activities, and an exciting rubber ducky race. For a $5 suggested donation, you can adopt a duck and get a chance to win great prizes. chsfl.org, (352) 620-3474, or (352) 572-8567.
FESTIVALS/FAIRS
Festivals of Speed (April 11). If you love exotic cars, motorcycles, or watercraft, a trip to St. Petersburg on April 11 is in order for the annual Festivals of Speed at North Straub Park. The event, which will also feature live jazz, food, wine tastings, cigar smokes, fashion shows, and more, will be held from 10am to 4pm. Admission is $10 per person, and children under age 12 get in free. festivalsofspeed.com or (352) 385-9450.
Ocala Storytelling Festival (April 16). If you love a good story, then the 13th annual Ocala Storytelling Festival is the place for you this month. Featured tellers this year are Jon Spelman and Pat Nease. The grand concert will be held at CenterPoint Church on Silver Springs Boulevard at 7pm. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for students, free admission for children 6 and younger, and $25 for families of four or more. ocalastorytellingfestival.com or (352) 821-0298.
Downtown Dance Festival (April 17). Ocala’s downtown square will be alive with music and dance during this community celebration of the grooves that move us. This city-sponsored festival takes place from 3pm to 8pm, and admission is free. (352) 368-5550.
African American Festival Family Day (April 17). Enjoy a day of live entertainment, a scavenger hunt, and hands-on art projects for the entire family at the Appleton Museum of Art. Admission is free. Day-long festivities. (352) 291-4455.
Cedar Key Arts Festival (April 24–25). The perennial favorite of tourists and natives alike, Cedar Key on the west coast turns its streets over to artists and their creations for one weekend each spring. The annual Cedar Key Arts Festival features fine art, sculpture, jewelry, photography, textiles, and much more from a select group of artists. Hours are 10am to 5pm each day, and admission is free. cedarkeyartsfestival.com or (352) 543-5801.
Arbor Day Festival (May 1). Celebrate the beauty and importance of trees in our lives during this city-sponsored event at Tuscawilla Park from 10am to 3pm. Live music, tree plantings, and care demonstrations are scheduled for this free event. (352) 368-5550.
MUSEUMS/EXHIBITS
Morgan Samuel Price (April 1–11). This special temporary exhibition at the Appleton Museum by award-winning Florida plein air artist Morgan Samuel Price will feature 45 oils and watercolors inspired by outdoor scenes. appletonmuseum.org or (352) 291-4455.
Southern Journeys: African-American Artists of the South (April 3-May 23).This exhibition features 55 works of African-American artists such as Jacob Lawrence, Romare Bearden, Elizabeth Catlett, and Hughie Lee-Smith who have chronicled the history of southern culture from the 1940s to today. The artwork contains subject matter ranging from personnel experience, music, and folklore to southern traditions and religion. appletonmuseum.org or (352) 291-4455.
2010 Student Art Showcase (April 7-May 5). This CFCC Webber Center exhibit includes artworks created by students from the Ocala and Citrus campuses during the fall 2009 and spring 2010 semesters. There will be a variety of two-dimensional and three-dimensional works on display, including paintings, drawings, sculptures and ceramics. Many of the works are for sale. Tuesday-Friday, 11am-5pm; Saturday, 10am-2pm. (352) 873-5809.
MUSIC/THEATER
Leading Ladies (April 1–11). Discover what happens when two cash-strapped Shakespearean actors try to pass themselves off as a dying old woman’s long-lost relatives, only to learn the relatives in questions should be females! Ken Ludwig’s play arrives at the Ocala Civic Theatre. ocalacivictheatre.com or (352) 236-2274.
Alan Pedersen Tour (April 7). Award-winning songwriter, successful recording artist, and bereaved father Alan Pedersen performs at 7pm at Blessed Trinity Catholic Church as part of his “Angels Across the USA Tour” and as a special guest of the Ocala Chapter of the Compassionate Friends. Admission is free, but donations are welcomed. (352) 369-6665.
Springtime Dance Festival Concert (April 16-17). In honor of National Dance Week, the Marion Ballet Theatre company presents its first-ever Springtime Dance Festival Concert, showcasing dance and local dancers at the Ocala Civic Theatre. The event will be held at 8pm on Saturday and 2pm on Sunday. (352) 361-6035.
Central Florida Master Choir (April 11, 18, May 2). The Central Florida Master Choir will perform three free concerts this month, featuring a variety of vocal music from the Renaissance, baroque, Romantic, and 20th century periods. The April 11 concert will be held at Ocala’s Countryside Presbyterian Church, and the April 18 concert will be held at Ocala’s Fort King Presbyterian Church. The May 2 concert will be held at Dunnellon Presbyterian Church. All performances are at 3pm, and donations are always welcomed. (352) 873-0731.
Marion Civic Chorale (April 18, 25, May 2). In honor of Easter, the Marion Civic Chorale will perform selections from Handel’s Messiah, including “Behold the Lamb of God,” “All We Like Sheep,” and “Hallelujah.” The concert will be held April 18 at 4pm at Dunnellon Presbyterian Church, April 25 at 3pm at Ocala’s Countryside Presbyterian Church, and May 2 at 4pm at Ocala’s First United Methodist Chuch. Admission is free but a $10 donation is suggested. marioncivicchorale.tripod.com or (352) 342-1796.
Wilson Williams & The Platters (April 24). Popular vocal group The Platters performs such hits as “Only You,” “My Prayer,” “Great Pretender,” and “Smoke Gets in Your Eyes” at On Top of the World’s Circle Square Cultural Center. Doors open at 6pm and the show starts at 7pm. Tickets range from $16 to $22. ontopoftheworld.com or (352) 854-3670.
Enhake (April 25). As part of the Appleton Museum’s 2010 Spring Concert Series, the Tallahassee-based quartet Enhake will perform works of Bach, Mozart, Beethoven, and others at 1:30pm at the museum. appletonmuseum.org or (352) 291-4455.
ONGOING EVENTS
Domestic Violence Educational Workshop (Various Dates). The Ocala Police Department’s Victim Advocates regularly host free educational workshops on domestic violence. To learn more about upcoming presentations at the OPD, visit ocalapd.com or call (352) 369-7139.
Rainbow Porcelain Artists (First Mondays). Come paint with the Rainbow Porcelain Artists at 9:30am on the first Monday of every month at the Rainbow Lakes Community Center in Dunnellon. No admission charge. (352) 622-7660.
Alzheimer’s Support Group (First Mondays). The Alzheimer’s and Memory Disorders support group of Ocala will meet from 3–5pm at the Medical Office Building at West Marion Community Hospital. For information, call (352) 401-1453.
I.O.R.G. Meetings (First and Third Mondays). The International Order of Rainbow for Girls, a girls’ service organization for ages 11–21 and a pledge group for ages 8–10, meets at 7pm at the Marion-Dunn Lodge on 36th Avenue every first and third Monday of the month. gorainbow.org or (3520 867-1047.
Greater Ocala Woman’s Club (Second Mondays). The Greater Ocala Woman’s Club meets at 6pm at the Ocala Hilton for dinner on the second Monday of every month, and all women of Marion County are welcome to attend. The GOWC is a non-profit organization that promotes educational, philanthropic, and charitable activities. (352) 236-6226.
Green Market Tuesday (Tuesdays). Buy local, buy fresh every Tuesdays from 2–6pm at the Historic Village Shops of Dunnellon. Locally grown produce, fresh seafood, baked goods, herbs, native plants, and even crafts will be on sale. (352) 208-6789.
Greater Ocala Dog Club (First Tuesdays). Dog lovers, take note! Every first Tuesday of the month, the Greater Ocala Dog Club will meet at the Gander Mountain store in Ocala at 7pm. The AKC All Breed dog club welcomes new members and visitors. ocaladogclub.com.
Ballroom Dance (First and Third Tuesdays). The Ocala chapter of USA Dance invites the public to attend its bi-weekly dances at the Pioneer Garden Club on SR 40 in Ocala. Free dance lessons start at 7pm. Refreshments are served, and admission is $10. usadanceocala.com or (352) 558-4200.
Woman’s Club of Ocala (Second Tuesdays). On every second Tuesday of the month, the Woman’s Club of Ocala Day Group meets for lunch and a program at 11:45am at the Elks Club on 25th Avenue and the Evening Group meets at 7pm also at the Elks Club. All local women are invited to attend this educational, charitable organization’s meetings. (352) 629-7397.
Gluten Free Support (Second Tuesdays). Ocala Regional Medical Center hosts this monthly support meeting for those who have celiac disease, dermatitis herpetiformis, and/or any other gluten intolerance, or who would like to learn about these diseases. Meetings held in Education room 6 from 6:00–7:30pm. (352) 854-1100 or (352) 843-7116.
The Compassionate Friends: Bereavement Group (First Wednesdays). A monthly bereavement meeting for families that have experienced the death of a child. 7pm, Blessed Trinity Catholic Church Elder Care Building. (352) 369-6665.
Ocala Accordion Club (Last Wednesdays). The Ocala Accordion Club meets every last Wednesday of the month from 5:30–9:00pm at the Cherrywood Club hours at 6253 SW 100th Loop in Ocala. (352) 208-5245.
Sweet Adeline’s Chorus (Thursdays). Women 18 and older are invited to visit weekly rehearsals at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Summerfield to learn and sing four-part harmony, barbershop style. The Summer Springs Chorus, under the direction of Judi Styger, welcomes anyone who likes to sing or hum, or has sung in a church choir or glee club. (352) 821-2778.
Circle Square Commons Farmers Market (Thursdays and Fourth Saturdays). Now open on the fourth Saturday of every month as well as every Thursday, the Circle Square Commons Farmers Market is chock-full of fresh, seasonal produce like blueberries, corn, herbs, oranges, and tomatoes, as well as baked goods such as bread, pies, and pastries. Vendors added weekly. 8am–12pm at On Top of the World. Free parking. circlesquarecommonsfarmersmarket.com.
KOS/Military Officers Association of America (First Thursdays). The Kingdom of the Sun Chapter of the Military Officers Association of America meets on the fourth Thursday of each month. KOS membership is open to active duty, National Guard, Reserve, retired, and former commissioned and warrant officers of the US Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, Public Health Service, and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. (352) 237-3139.
Canoe/Kayak and Coffee (First and Third Thursdays). A fun social outing for adults in the great outdoors! This paddling trip takes place twice a month at various locations. Designed for beginners, but experienced paddlers welcome. Coffee and conversation follow. $5 fee includes equipment and refreshments. Park admission, if applicable, not included in fee. Marion County Parks and Recreation. (352) 671-8560.
Open Mike Night (Second Thursdays). Participate in or just enjoy an evening of spoken word and song at the Brick City Center for the Arts every second Thursday of the month, from 8:00–9:30pm. $5 for Marion Cultural Alliance members or $7.50 for non-members. mcaocala.com or (352) 369-1500.
North Magnolia Merchants Farmer’s Market (Fridays). From 8am to 1:30pm every Friday, the North Magnolia Business Merchants’ farmer’s market offers fresh produce, eggs, jams, honey, barbecue sauces, and homemade crafts to the public for purchase. The market is located at 834 North Magnolia Avenue. (352) 207-4551.
Silver Spring Shores Table Tennis Club (Fridays). Join members of the Silver Spring Shores Table Tennis Club at the Community Center on Silver Road in Ocala every Friday from 12pm to 3pm. Table tennis is a great way to get exercise and socialize with friends. (352) 687-0164.
First Friday Art Walk (First Fridays). Mark your calendars! On the first Friday of the every month, this art walk through downtown Ocala will feature artwork, artists on-site, and live demonstrations. Admission is free. 6–8pm. (352) 629-8444.
Gospel Open Mike Night (First Fridays). If you can play gospel music, head to the Forest Assembly of God located at 17530 E. Hwy. 40 in Silver Springs for Open Mike Night every first Friday of the month at 6:30pm. (352) 230-1253.
Art Club of Belleview (First Fridays). The Art Club of Belleview was established to promote art in the Belleview area and bring creative people together. Membership in the club is $12 per year, and meetings are held at 4pm on the first Friday of every month at the Belleview Library. artclubbelleview.zoomshare.com or (352) 245-4728.
Super Science Saturdays (Saturdays). Live demonstrations, hands-on activity tables, special science workshops, guest lecturers, and more offered each Saturday at the Discovery Science & Outdoor in Ocala. Free with $2 paid admission. All ages are welcome. Call (352) 401-3900 for schedule of activities.
General K. Pulaski Club Dinner/Dance (Second Sundays). Grab those dancing shoes! The Belleview General K. Pulaski Club hosts a dinner/dance on the second Sunday of every month. Homemade dinner is served at noon, followed by ballroom, polka, waltz, and American dancing music from the Gen. K. Pulaski Band from 1:30–5:00pm. The club is located on 113th Street in Belleview. $13 for members; $15 for non-members. Reservations required. (352) 245-9378.
Ballroom Tea Party (Second Sundays).A variety of dance music from waltz, foxtrot, tango, rumba, cha cha, swing, polka, salsa, and merengue to practice your dancing. $5. 5–7pm. Dancin’ Around Studio on South Pine Avenue. (352) 690-6637.
Star-Gazing Party (Second Saturdays). See the night sky in all its glory. Join members of the Ocala Astronomy Club and learn about stars, planets, and more. Insect repellent, a lawn chair or blanket, and binoculars are recommended. Call the Silver River State Park in Ocala for exact times. (352) 236-7148.
Coffee with the Birds (Third Saturdays). Join an experienced birder for a mild hike through the woods in beautiful Central Florida. Bring binoculars, field guide, and bug spray. $3–$4. 9am. Silver River State Park, Ocala. floridastateparks.org or (352) 236-7148.
Free Self Defense/Safety Classes (Ongoing). Free self-defense and personal safety classes for women ages 13 and older and children ages 5–12 are now offered locally through RAD and radKIDS instructors. Call (352) 216-8452 for class times and locations. radkids.org or rad-systems.com.
Ocala Recreation & Parks Sports (Ongoing). From soccer and golf camps to tennis programs, T-ball, and flag football, Ocala’s parks are the place to be this fall for youth sports. Head to Jervey Gantt Park, Ocala Regional RecPlex, and the Ft. King Tennis Center are just some of the Ocala Recreation & Parks places where kids can get active. ocalafl.org/recreationandparks or (352) 368-5550.
Cactus Jack’s Trail Rides (Ongoing). Ocala’s only guided trail rides through the Florida Horse Park and Greenway trail system is now open! Guests can ride Cactus Jack horses or bring their own for a fun, safe, and affordable trail ride. Rides available every day. Teens and older. thefloridapoloclub.com or (352) 978-7656.
Marion County Mustangs (Ongoing). This new youth sports organization in town is now offering a new 2010 American Youth Football & Cheer program for ages 5–15. No weight restrictions and no redcapping. leaguelineup.com/marioncountymustangs or (352) 426-1100.
Dunnellon Library Series (Ongoing). The Dunnellon Public Library currently offers a wide range of programs at its facility for patrons to utilize, including a Master Gardeners’ series, family and consumer science programs, movie matinees, computer classes, a health series, and children’s story time. (352) 438-2520.
Florida Trail Association (Ongoing). The Central Florida Chapter of the Florida Trail Association hosts local hikes, walks, meetings, paddle trips, bike rides, and other nature activities every month. Nearly every event is free and open to the public. floridatrail.org/Chapters/central-florida or (407) 332-7790.
LifeSouth Community Blood Centers (Ongoing). The LifeSouth Community Blood Centers Bloodmobile travels to different locations throughout Marion County to accommodate donors. To find out more about the Bloodmobile’s schedule, visit lifesouth.org.
Florida’s Blood Centers (Ongoing). Florida’s Blood Center has an urgent need for all blood types. Giving blood is a simple process and takes under an hour. Every donor receives a mini-physical and screening with each donation. Visit floridasbloodcenter.org or call (888)-9DONATE for center locations.
Home School Outdoor Recreation (Ongoing). Marion County Parks and Recreation offers an Outdoor Recreation Program for families that home school their children. Activities can include guided wildlife walks, canoe and kayak opportunities, nature crafts, and outdoor games. Fees are reasonable and based on age and number in group. E-mail cathy.norris@marioncountyfl.org or call (352) 671-8560.
Volunteer Drivers Needed (Ongoing). The American Cancer Society has an urgent need for volunteer drivers to transport cancer patients to doctor appointments. (352) 376-6866, ext. 5063 or (888) 295-6787, ext. 5063.
Moms of Marion (Ongoing). Meet friendly local moms to talk about your kids and have fun! Membership dues are $15 per year. meetup.com/momsofmarion/
American Cancer Society Support Groups (Ongoing). The Marion County chapter of the American Cancer Society offers many support groups for those affected by the various forms of the disease, from breast cancer to prostate cancer. To find out about available resources, visit cancer.org or call (352) 629-4727, ext. 5820.
The Ocala Horse Show (Ongoing). A major hub of activity in the equestrian world, Ocala now has a TV show dedicated entirely to the area’s horse industry. Tune in Friday mornings at 10am on Cox Channel 21 and every Friday late night at 2am on FOX51. Learn about important equine people, upcoming events, and much more. ocalahorseshow.com or (352) 746-1848.
