Business & Networking

Equine Initiative Meeting

An equine industry festival for horse lovers with Mary Phelps and Wayne Humphreys in Micanopy. Connect with fellow equine professionals and enthusiasts.

Event Details

Date & Time

Thursday, October 16, 2025

2:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Location

Farm of the Flying Gangsters and Cefnoak Bouncer

See chamber website for details
Micanopy, FL 32667

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Admission

See registration

Organized By

Ocala Chamber of Commerce

About This Event

An equine industry festival for horse lovers with Mary Phelps and Wayne Humphreys in Micanopy. Connect with fellow equine professionals and enthusiasts.

Want More Information?

Visit the official event website for tickets, additional details, and updates.

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Ocala Civic Theatre
Arts & Culture

Ocala Civic Theatre stands as the second largest community theater in Florida and one of the finest community theaters in the Southeast, celebrating 75 years of exceptional theatrical excellence since its founding as The Marion Players on March 3, 1950, when a group of passionate young people decided <a href="/location/ocala" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-700 underline">Ocala</a> needed a "little theatre" that would provide the highest quality entertainment for local audiences. Located in the prestigious Appleton Cultural Center at 4337 E Silver Springs Boulevard, this remarkable non-profit organization has evolved from its humble beginnings into <a href="/location/marion-county" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-700 underline">Marion County's</a> only community playhouse, serving over 65,000 local residents and visitors each season through professional-quality live performances that rival the nation's finest regional theaters. Rich theatrical history spans three distinct eras of growth and development, beginning with the nomadic early years when The Marion Players held meetings in Hotel Ocala's coffee shop and performed in various downtown venues including the old Armory building, Ocala High School, and spaces above the Ocala Bakery. In 1953, the organization purchased the Osborne Theatre on East Silver Springs Boulevard, providing a permanent home for 35 years before relocating in 1988 to their current magnificent $1.4 million facility built on 28 acres leased from the City of Ocala, creating a state-of-the-art venue that accommodates the growing audiences drawn to OCT's exceptional productions. Professional-quality productions showcase the remarkable talents and dedication of volunteers, staff, and guest designers who collaborate to present more than twelve fully-staged live performances each season, featuring an impressive diversity of classic dramas, contemporary comedies, beloved musicals, and innovative theatrical works that appeal to audiences of all ages and theatrical preferences. Each production receives meticulous attention to detail in direction, set design, costume creation, lighting design, and sound engineering that creates immersive theatrical experiences comparable to professional theaters while maintaining the intimate, community-centered atmosphere that distinguishes exceptional community theater. Comprehensive educational programs reach over 1,000 learners annually through The Academy's year-round theatre education initiatives that offer skills classes and performance classes for students ages 5 through 105, providing structured learning opportunities that develop artistic abilities, build confidence, and foster lifelong appreciation for the performing arts. These educational offerings include acting techniques, vocal training, stage craft, technical theater skills, and comprehensive performance preparation that serves both aspiring professionals and enthusiastic amateurs seeking creative expression and personal growth through theatrical arts. Community engagement excellence includes the beloved Golden Troupers program for performers ages 55 and older who bring live theater directly to community venues throughout Marion County, extending OCT's cultural impact beyond the main theater walls while providing performance opportunities for senior artists. This innovative outreach demonstrates the theater's commitment to accessibility and community service while celebrating the wisdom and talent of experienced performers who enrich the broader community through their artistic contributions. Volunteer-driven operations reflect the grassroots spirit that has sustained OCT for seven decades, with dedicated volunteers contributing countless hours to every aspect of theater operations from performance and technical production through administrative support and fundraising activities. ACT 4, the theater's volunteer support organization established in 1988, has donated over $200,000 to support OCT's mission while fostering a strong sense of community among theater enthusiasts who share passion for live performance and cultural enrichment. Professional facilities and services include group sales accommodations for parties of 10 or more, theater rental opportunities for special events and performances, convenient box office operations Monday through Friday from 10 AM to 2 PM, and comprehensive ticketing services through the Arts People system that ensures easy access to all productions and events. Cultural leadership throughout Central Florida positions Ocala Civic Theatre as an essential community institution that not only entertains but educates, inspires, and unites residents through shared appreciation for live theatrical performance. As OCT celebrates its 75th anniversary in 2025, affectionately known as "The Civic," this remarkable organization continues building upon its legacy of artistic excellence while adapting to serve contemporary audiences seeking meaningful cultural experiences in the heart of the Horse Capital of the World. Ocala Civic Theatre represents the perfect fusion of artistic excellence, community spirit, educational commitment, and cultural leadership, where 75 years of theatrical tradition, professional-quality productions, comprehensive educational programming, and dedicated volunteer service combine to create an extraordinary cultural destination that enriches lives, builds community connections, and celebrates the transformative power of live theater throughout Marion County and beyond.

Ocala, FL
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The Club at Candler Hills
Dining

The Club at Candler Hills stands as <a href="/location/ocala" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-700 underline">Ocala's</a> premier golf course dining destination and scenic culinary retreat, welcoming the public to experience exceptional cuisine while enjoying breathtaking panoramic views of the meticulously maintained Candler Hills Golf Club greens from their elevated location at 8139 SW 90th Terrace Road. This sophisticated dining establishment seamlessly blends the elegance of country club atmosphere with the accessibility of public dining, creating an extraordinary restaurant experience where "gorgeous views of the greens" enhance every meal while skilled chefs craft a wide selection of delectable cuisine that transforms ordinary dining into memorable occasions for residents of <a href="/location/marion-county" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-700 underline">Marion County</a> and visitors seeking exceptional golf course dining experiences. Spectacular golf course views create an unparalleled dining atmosphere through floor-to-ceiling windows and spacious outdoor seating that showcase the rolling fairways, pristine putting greens, and natural beauty of the championship golf course landscape. These stunning vistas provide a constantly changing backdrop as golfers navigate the course while diners enjoy their meals, creating dynamic scenery that enhances the dining experience and distinguishes The Club at Candler Hills from conventional restaurants through its unique integration of natural beauty and culinary excellence. Versatile indoor and outdoor dining options accommodate diverse preferences and weather conditions through elegant interior spaces that provide climate-controlled comfort and sophisticated ambiance alongside expansive outdoor terraces that allow guests to fully immerse themselves in the golf course setting while enjoying Florida's favorable climate. This dual approach ensures that every guest finds their preferred dining environment while maintaining access to the spectacular views that define the restaurant's distinctive character. Signature Sunday brunch buffet transforms weekend dining into a special occasion through an elaborate spread featuring prime rib carving station, fresh waffle preparation, interactive omelet bar, grilled chicken selections, scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, savory sausage, artisan breads, golden hashbrowns, fresh shrimp, seasonal fruits, and tempting desserts that create a comprehensive dining experience. The $5 bottomless mimosas and Bloody Mary upgrade enhances the celebratory atmosphere while providing exceptional value for this extensive culinary presentation. Diverse dinner menu showcases culinary expertise through premium selections including perfectly prepared sandwiches for casual dining, succulent braised beef ribs that demonstrate slow-cooking mastery, fresh salmon that highlights seafood preparation skills, elegant crab cakes featuring premium seafood, expertly grilled filet mignon that represents steakhouse quality, and prime rib that showcases traditional roasting techniques. These varied offerings ensure that every palate finds satisfaction while maintaining the high standards expected from golf course dining. Daily drink specials and beverage program enhance the dining experience through carefully crafted cocktails, premium wine selections, and refreshing beverages that complement both the cuisine and the relaxed golf course atmosphere. These beverage offerings demonstrate the restaurant's commitment to providing complete dining experiences while creating opportunities for guests to extend their visits and fully appreciate the scenic setting. Accessible public dining philosophy ensures that the golf course dining experience remains available to the entire community rather than restricting access to club members only, creating opportunities for special occasion dining, business meetings, romantic dinners, and family celebrations in an elegant setting that might otherwise be unavailable to local residents. This inclusive approach demonstrates the restaurant's commitment to serving the broader Ocala community. Extended operating hours Tuesday through Sunday from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM (with weekend extension to 9:00 PM) accommodate lunch meetings, afternoon gatherings, and dinner celebrations while maintaining the fresh preparation and attentive service that distinguish exceptional dining establishments. The Monday closure allows staff to prepare for the week while ensuring that Tuesday through Sunday operations maintain consistently high standards. Professional culinary team creates memorable dining experiences through skilled preparation, creative presentation, and attention to detail that honors both traditional cooking techniques and contemporary culinary innovation. The chefs' commitment to quality ingredients and expert preparation ensures that every dish meets the elevated expectations of golf course dining while providing value that encourages regular patronage. Special events and group dining capabilities make The Club at Candler Hills an ideal venue for celebrations, business functions, and social gatherings where the combination of excellent cuisine, scenic views, and elegant atmosphere creates lasting impressions. The restaurant's ability to accommodate various group sizes while maintaining intimate dining experiences demonstrates versatility that serves diverse community needs. Community recognition and scenic appeal have established The Club at Candler Hills as a destination for both golf enthusiasts and diners seeking exceptional cuisine in a unique setting, with guests consistently praising the combination of quality food, beautiful views, and welcoming atmosphere that creates dining experiences worthy of special occasions and regular enjoyment. The Club at Candler Hills represents the perfect fusion of championship golf course beauty, culinary excellence, public accessibility, and sophisticated hospitality, where panoramic greens views, expertly prepared cuisine, versatile dining options, and genuine commitment to guest satisfaction combine to create an extraordinary dining destination that brings the elegance and quality of private club dining to the entire Central Florida community.

Ocala, FL
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The Lodge Ocala
Dining

The Lodge Ocala stands as <a href="/location/downtown-ocala" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-700 underline">downtown Ocala's</a> premier craft beer destination and entertainment hub, featuring an extraordinary selection of over 200 craft beers including 24 rotating taps, alongside expertly crafted tavern fare and multiple entertainment experiences that cater to every taste and social preference. Located at 36 SE Magnolia Avenue in the heart of historic downtown <a href="/location/ocala" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-700 underline">Ocala</a>, this innovative venue successfully combines the casual comfort of a neighborhood pub with the sophistication of an upscale lounge, creating a unique dual-level experience under the passionate ownership of Johnny and Rachael Sanchez who have transformed The Lodge into Central Florida's most comprehensive craft beer and entertainment destination since taking ownership in September 2024. 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Versatile seating options accommodate every social preference and group size through ample indoor and outdoor seating that includes comfortable couches for relaxed conversations, bar-top seating for interactive dining experiences, umbrella-covered outdoor areas perfect for Florida's beautiful weather, and various chairs scattered throughout that create flexible gathering spaces. This thoughtful layout ensures that every guest finds their ideal spot for dining, drinking, and socializing. Extended operating hours serve the community throughout the week with Monday through Thursday service from 3 PM to 2 AM, Friday and Saturday hours from 11 AM to 2 AM, and Sunday service from 10 AM to midnight. This extensive schedule accommodates everything from weekend brunch and lunch gatherings through late-night entertainment and celebrations, ensuring that The Lodge remains accessible for business meetings, family dinners, date nights, and late-night adventures. Ownership dedication under Johnny and Rachael Sanchez brings fresh energy and vision to this established downtown landmark, with their September 2024 acquisition representing a commitment to enhancing the venue's reputation while preserving the community atmosphere that makes The Lodge a beloved gathering place for locals and visitors exploring Central Florida's cultural attractions. Strategic downtown location positions The Lodge at the center of Ocala's historic district, within walking distance of shops, galleries, theaters, and other attractions that make downtown exploration convenient and enjoyable. The venue's proximity to the downtown square creates perfect opportunities for people-watching and community engagement while supporting the broader revitalization of Ocala's historic business district. Social atmosphere excellence encourages both intimate conversations and lively group gatherings through thoughtfully designed spaces that balance acoustic comfort with energetic entertainment, ensuring that couples enjoy romantic drinks while groups celebrate special occasions and friends gather for casual hangouts. This versatile atmosphere makes The Lodge appropriate for business meetings, first dates, family celebrations, and friend reunions. The Lodge Ocala represents the perfect fusion of craft beer expertise, culinary excellence, and entertainment sophistication, where over 200 craft beers, expertly prepared tavern fare, live music programming, upscale Loft experiences, and genuine hospitality combine to create downtown Ocala's most comprehensive destination for dining, drinking, and entertainment that honors craft beer culture while celebrating community spirit in the heart of Central Florida's historic downtown district.

Ocala, FL
Website Available
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Schooley Mitchell - Phylis Cauthen
Business & Professional Services

Schooley Mitchell - Phylis Cauthen stands as <a href="/location/ocala" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-700 underline">Ocala's</a> premier business cost reduction consulting practice, representing North America's largest independent cost reduction consulting firm with over 25 years of experience helping businesses optimize their operational expenses across telecommunications, merchant services, fuel, waste removal, packaging and shipping, and numerous other expense categories throughout <a href="/location/marion-county" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-700 underline">Marion County</a> and Central Florida. Led by certified consultant Phylis Cauthen, this locally owned franchise delivers objective business optimization advice without selling any products or services, allowing business owners to focus on their core operations while ensuring their systems are fully optimized and any wasted money is recovered through proven cost reduction methodologies. Comprehensive expense auditing services provide businesses with thorough analysis of telecommunications, merchant services, small package shipping, waste removal, fuel costs, utility expenses, and software services through specialized tools and industry expertise that identifies billing errors, optimizes contracts, and secures better rates without disrupting existing operations. Schooley Mitchell's risk-free audits have delivered over $1 billion in documented savings to more than 30,000 clients worldwide, with average expense reductions of 27-28% across key service categories while maintaining or improving service quality. Telecommunications optimization encompasses detailed analysis of voice services, data connections, internet services, wireless plans, and unified communications systems to identify billing errors, eliminate unnecessary services, optimize rate plans, and negotiate better terms with existing or alternative providers. 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Fuel and shipping expense optimization helps businesses reduce transportation costs through analysis of fuel card programs, shipping contracts, courier services, and logistics arrangements that often contain hidden fees, suboptimal pricing structures, or unnecessary service charges. This comprehensive review includes evaluating shipping volumes, delivery requirements, and transportation patterns to identify cost-saving opportunities while maintaining service levels and delivery reliability that business operations require. Waste removal and utility expense analysis examines waste hauling contracts, recycling programs, utility rate structures, and energy consumption patterns to identify opportunities for cost reduction through better contract terms, service optimization, or alternative providers that deliver equivalent services at lower costs. This analysis includes understanding actual usage patterns, service requirements, and available alternatives that may provide significant savings without compromising operational needs or environmental responsibilities. Contingency-based fee structure ensures that businesses pay no fees unless Schooley Mitchell generates documented savings, eliminating financial risk while providing confidence that cost reduction efforts will produce measurable results. This unique business model means that Phylis Cauthen and Schooley Mitchell are completely invested in client success, as their compensation depends entirely on delivering actual savings that improve client profitability and cash flow. Independent consultant advantages ensure that businesses receive completely objective advice without conflicts of interest, vendor kickbacks, or sales incentives that could compromise recommendations. Phylis Cauthen maintains complete independence from service providers, ensuring that all recommendations prioritize client interests rather than commission opportunities or vendor relationships that could influence advice quality or objectivity. Ongoing monitoring and support services provide businesses with continuous oversight of optimized contracts and services to ensure that negotiated savings are maintained, service levels are preserved, and new opportunities for cost reduction are identified as business needs change or market conditions evolve. This ongoing support includes periodic reviews, contract monitoring, and proactive identification of additional savings opportunities that help businesses maintain optimal expense management over time. Proven track record demonstrates Schooley Mitchell's success through documented client results, including recent examples such as recovering an $8,552 billing error for a telecommunications client during the initial analysis phase, plus $75,000 in ongoing savings over the contract term. These real-world results reflect the firm's ability to identify both immediate billing corrections and long-term cost optimization opportunities that provide substantial financial benefits to client businesses. Local market expertise ensures that Phylis Cauthen understands the unique challenges facing <a href="/location/marion-county" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-700 underline">Marion County</a> businesses while leveraging Schooley Mitchell's national relationships and industry knowledge to secure optimal pricing and service terms that may not be available through local negotiations alone. 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Ocala, FL
Website Available
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business
Citrus Land Services Inc
Business & Professional Services

Citrus Land Services Inc provides comprehensive land management and development services throughout Marion County and Central Florida, specializing in professional land clearing, site preparation, excavation, and property development solutions that support residential, commercial, and agricultural projects across the region. With expertise in environmental compliance, soil management, and sustainable land use practices, this established land services company combines modern equipment with experienced operators to deliver efficient, cost-effective solutions for property owners, developers, contractors, and agricultural operations requiring professional land management services. Known for their commitment to environmental responsibility and regulatory compliance, Citrus Land Services works closely with clients to develop customized land management plans that maximize property value while minimizing environmental impact through careful planning and execution of clearing, grading, and development activities. Whether preparing sites for new construction, managing agricultural land transitions, conducting selective clearing for property improvement, or providing ongoing land maintenance services, Citrus Land Services brings years of local experience and comprehensive equipment capabilities to deliver results that meet client objectives while supporting the sustainable development and responsible stewardship of Central Florida's diverse landscapes and natural resources.

Ocala, FL
Website Available
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