Molly’s Law Documentary Premiere
MARION THEATRE
Photos by Bruce Ackerman
The story of Molly, a dog who was beaten and stabbed, led to the formation of Molly’s Law, also known as the Marion County Animal Abuser Registry, which has become a national model. Molly, of course, was the star of the show at the premiere.
We Go Together Celebrity Dinner
SOUTHEASTERN LIVESTOCK PAVILION AUDITORIUM
Photos by Cynthia Wilson-Graham
Chris Nikic, the first person with Down syndrome to complete an Ironman Triathlon, was one of the special guests at the “Grease”-themed fundraiser for Champions for Champions. The event, held April 8th, featured a performance by Victoria Sexton.
Bridget Bryant, Daytona Bregenhardt, Roxy Hodzic, Adrienne Bunn, Chris Nikic, Sora Kang,
Mary Jane Lyons, 2nd row: Jasmine, Scarlett and Vaughn Hodzic, Seated: Jasper Roman
Levitt AMP Concert
MLK RECREATION COMPLEX
Photos by Bruce Ackerman
The April 22nd concert, with headliners Davina and the Vagabonds, kicked off the 10-show series. The events are a partnership of the City of Ocala and Marion Cultural Alliance and include local vendors and area charities—and lots of people dancing.
Earthfest: Celebrate Arbor Day
TUSCAWILLA PARK
Photos by Bruce Ackerman
There was plenty of fun to be had on April 23rd, including a youth fishing derby, tree and rock wall climbing, entertainment, food trucks and other vendors, tree giveaways and other activities, all to celebrate our beautiful natural environment.
Behind The Mask
OCALA CIVIC THEATRE
Photos by Bruce Ackerman
Behind the Mask: An Evening of Enchantment, held April 25th, featured Broadway star Grant Norman, who played the Beast and Gaston in Beauty and the Beast, and included French delicacies, signature cocktails, champagne and beastly-yet-beautiful surprises.
Off To The Races Fundraiser
WORLD EQUESTRIAN CENTER
Photos courtesy Grace Christian School
The annual auction fundraiser hosted by Grace Christian School had a Kentucky Derby theme, carried out through a hat and bow tie contest. The April 30th soiree, which included live and silent auctions, raffles and entertainment, raised $110,000 for the school, which serves students from pre-K through eighth grade.
Kim Kurbanick, Sue Keuntjes and Randy Keuntjes
Ladies High Tea
SOCIAGRO FARM
Photos by Bruce Ackerman
It was all about flowers, fine china, fun and fundraising for the sixth annual event, which was hosted by Interfaith Emergency Services CEO Karla Grimsley-Greenway. The proceeds, $40,409, will benefit Interfaith’s Homeless Shelter Program for women, children and families.
and Amy Lord
Festivals of Speed
WORLD EQUESTRIAN CENTER
Photos by Bruce Ackerman
More than 200 automobiles, ranging from luxury sedans to high-powered muscle cars, were the center of attention on May 7th. The show kicked off May 6th with a special cocktail event. Both days included top-line vendors and a lot of highly polished chrome.
Symphony Under The Stars
OCALA GOLF CLUB
Photos by Bruce Ackerman
This annual Ocala tradition, hosted by Fine Arts For Ocala and showcasing the Ocala Symphony Orchestra, is always a Mother’s Day favorite. The May 8th gathering drew hundreds of people and lots of oohs and aahs for the fireworks.
Christina DePalma, Daphne DePalma and Sandra Keller
