Ocala Christmas Parade

Curtis Twins Lead Girls to 23rd Consecutive Crown; Knights Hold Off Belleview Challenge for Boys' 27th Straight at Belleview High School

Local athletes compete strong against elite competition as national powerhouses visit Marion County

Notice Me Marketing and Media stands as <a href="/location/central-florida" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-700 underline">Central Florida's</a> premier full-service marketing and promotional products company, transforming businesses through innovative marketing solutions, custom apparel manufacturing, promotional merchandise, and strategic digital marketing campaigns since 2018. Founded and operated by Darrin DeTorres, who also owns <a href="/businesses/radical-runs" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-700 underline">Radical Runs</a> and serves as head coach of the <a href="/businesses/ocala-distance-project" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-700 underline">Ocala Distance Project</a>, this dynamic enterprise brings unique entrepreneurial expertise and deep community understanding to every client relationship. Comprehensive marketing services encompass complete brand strategy development, digital marketing campaign management, social media marketing, search engine optimization, content creation, website design and development, and integrated marketing communications that ensure consistent brand messaging across all customer touchpoints. The company's digital marketing expertise includes Google Ads management, Facebook and Instagram advertising, email marketing automation, and comprehensive analytics reporting that provides clients with measurable results and clear return on investment tracking. Custom apparel and promotional products manufacturing represents the company's core specialty, featuring state-of-the-art screen printing, embroidery, heat transfer vinyl application, and direct-to-garment printing capabilities that deliver exceptional quality for corporate apparel, team uniforms, event merchandise, and promotional giveaways. Their advanced production facility houses professional-grade equipment including automatic screen printing presses, multi-head embroidery machines, and precision cutting systems that ensure consistent quality and rapid turnaround times for orders ranging from single pieces through large corporate runs. Promotional product sourcing and customization services provide access to thousands of branded merchandise options through established supplier networks, enabling clients to find the perfect promotional items for trade shows, corporate events, employee recognition programs, and customer appreciation campaigns. From tech accessories and drinkware through executive gifts and seasonal items, Notice Me Marketing's product specialists help clients select promotional materials that align with brand identity while maximizing marketing impact and budget efficiency. Graphic design and branding expertise encompasses complete brand identity development, logo design, marketing collateral creation, packaging design, and visual brand standards development that ensures professional presentation across all marketing materials. Their creative team combines artistic talent with marketing strategy knowledge to produce designs that not only look exceptional but also communicate brand messages effectively and drive customer engagement. Event marketing support and experiential marketing services help clients maximize visibility and engagement at trade shows, conferences, sporting events, festivals, and corporate gatherings through custom booth displays, branded merchandise, promotional staff coordination, and comprehensive event marketing strategies. This expertise extends to race event marketing through connections with <a href="/businesses/radical-runs" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-700 underline">Radical Runs</a>, providing unique opportunities for sports marketing and athletic event sponsorships throughout <a href="/location/marion-county" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-700 underline">Marion County</a> and Central Florida. Technology integration and automation capabilities include customer relationship management systems, automated marketing workflows, online ordering platforms, and inventory management solutions that streamline operations while providing clients with convenient access to reordering, design approval processes, and project tracking. These technological advantages enable rapid response times and efficient project management that keeps marketing campaigns on schedule and within budget. Client portfolio diversity demonstrates Notice Me Marketing's versatility and expertise, serving Fortune 500 corporations, local small businesses, nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, healthcare systems, sports teams, running clubs, and event organizers throughout <a href="/location/ocala" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-700 underline">Ocala</a>, Gainesville, The Villages, and surrounding Central Florida communities. This broad client base provides valuable cross-industry insights that enhance marketing strategy development and creative problem-solving for each unique business challenge. Community involvement and local expertise distinguish Notice Me Marketing through active participation in Marion County business networks, sponsorship of local events and athletic programs, and ongoing support for community organizations. This local commitment ensures deep understanding of regional market dynamics, consumer preferences, and business networking opportunities that benefit client marketing strategies while contributing to the economic vitality of the Horse Capital of the World. Notice Me Marketing and Media represents the perfect fusion of creative expertise, technological capability, manufacturing excellence, and entrepreneurial innovation, where comprehensive marketing knowledge, advanced production capabilities, strategic thinking, and genuine commitment to client success combine to deliver marketing solutions that make businesses stand out in competitive markets while building lasting brand recognition throughout Central Florida's dynamic business landscape.

Elite distance running training and coaching program based in <a href="/location/ocala" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-700 underline">Ocala, Florida</a>, dedicated to developing runners of all ages and abilities through comprehensive training, professional coaching, and a supportive community environment. Founded and led by head coach Darrin DeTorres, the Ocala Distance Project combines decades of distance running expertise with modern training methodologies to help athletes achieve their personal goals, from recreational fitness to competitive excellence at state and national levels. Comprehensive training programs cater to diverse runner needs through structured membership levels designed to accommodate varying commitment levels and athletic goals. The Starter membership provides an excellent introduction to organized training with one practice session per week, perfect for beginners or recreational runners seeking structure and community support. Core Training membership offers three weekly practice sessions, providing substantial training volume and coaching interaction for runners serious about improvement and consistent development. Elite Performance membership delivers personalized training plans, advanced coaching techniques, and individualized attention for competitive athletes pursuing racing goals and maximum performance potential. Professional coaching expertise stems from Darrin DeTorres' extensive background in distance running, beginning his own running journey in third grade and continuing through decades of competition, coaching, and race organization throughout Central Florida. This authentic understanding of runner development, training progression, and competitive psychology ensures that coaching methods are grounded in real experience rather than theoretical approaches, providing athletes with practical guidance that translates directly to improved performance and running satisfaction. Coach DeTorres also operates <a href="/businesses/radical-runs" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-700 underline">Radical Runs LLC</a>, Central Florida's premier race timing and event management company, providing comprehensive understanding of both training and competitive racing logistics. Youth development focus demonstrates the program's commitment to building Central Florida's future running community by introducing young athletes to proper training techniques, racing strategy, and the lifelong benefits of distance running participation. Through structured coaching and mentorship, young runners develop not only athletic abilities but also discipline, goal-setting skills, and confidence that benefit all areas of their lives while potentially qualifying for Florida State meets and USATF National competitions. The program's success was on full display at the <a href="/news/marion-conference-cross-country-championships-2025" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-700 underline">2025 Marion Conference Cross Country Championships</a>, where ODP-trained athletes dominated both races, with 8 of the top 10 boys finishers and 5 of the top 7 girls finishers coming through the program. Community building extends beyond individual training to create a supportive network of runners who encourage each other's progress, share training experiences, and participate together in local racing opportunities throughout <a href="/location/marion-county" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-700 underline">Marion County</a> and Central Florida. This community aspect ensures that athletes find motivation, friendship, and accountability within their training group, making the running journey more enjoyable and sustainable over time. Local expertise provides invaluable knowledge of Central Florida running conditions, including optimal training routes through <a href="/parks/silver-springs-state-park" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-700 underline">Silver Springs State Park</a> and other scenic locations, seasonal weather considerations, local racing opportunities, and connections to the broader running community throughout Ocala, Gainesville, and surrounding areas. This local knowledge ensures that training plans and racing strategies are perfectly suited to regional conditions and opportunities. Racing preparation encompasses comprehensive support for athletes pursuing competitive goals, from local 5K races through marathon distances, including technical guidance on pacing strategy, racing tactics, and mental preparation that maximizes race day performance. This racing expertise, combined with professional race timing services through Radical Runs, helps athletes achieve personal records while enjoying the competitive racing experience. Flexible training approach accommodates the diverse schedules and commitments of working adults, students, and families by offering multiple training times and adaptable training plans that fit real-life circumstances while maintaining training effectiveness and progression toward athletic goals. The Ocala Distance Project represents the perfect combination of professional coaching expertise, community support, and local knowledge, creating an environment where runners can achieve their goals while developing lasting friendships and a lifelong appreciation for the sport of distance running in the heart of <a href="/living-in-ocala-florida" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-700 underline">Central Florida</a>.

Ivy on the Square stands as downtown <a href="/location/ocala" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-700 underline">Ocala's</a> premier culinary destination and a cornerstone of Southern hospitality, presenting the finest in homemade Southern cooking through meticulously crafted dishes that embody the essence of true Southern culinary tradition. Located at 53 S Magnolia Avenue in the heart of the historic downtown square, this beloved restaurant offers guests a remarkable culinary journey back in time to the heart of the South, where savory dishes prepared with care and tradition using recipes passed down through generations create an authentic dining experience that celebrates the rich heritage of Southern cuisine while providing exceptional service in an inviting atmosphere perfect for memorable dining occasions. Authentic Southern cuisine excellence showcases the restaurant's dedication to presenting traditional Southern cooking at its finest, featuring an impressive menu of comfort food classics including their signature crispy chicken, savory beef and fish specialty dishes, bacon-wrapped dates that tantalize the palate, creole shrimp and grits that capture the essence of coastal Southern cooking, and renowned crab cakes that have earned recognition as among the finest available, even compared to those from the legendary Chesapeake Bay region. Each dish reflects the restaurant's commitment to using time-honored recipes and cooking techniques that honor the culinary traditions of the American South. Hidden speakeasy experience transports guests to the roaring twenties through The Thirsty Cobbler, a secret speakeasy tucked away behind the main restaurant that captures the spirit of the Prohibition era with intimate ambiance, vintage charm, and an atmosphere that truly embodies the clandestine excitement of 1920s nightlife. Accessed through a side door requiring a whispered password posted on the restaurant's Facebook page, this exclusive experience opens at 8:30 PM for those seeking craft cocktails, specialty martinis, traditional Prohibition-era libations, and an authentic speakeasy atmosphere complete with period music and decor that creates an unforgettable evening of entertainment. Craft beverage program encompasses both the main restaurant's impressive selection of cocktails, mocktails, and specialty drinks, plus The Thirsty Cobbler's extensive speakeasy menu featuring original prohibition-themed cocktails that showcase mixology artistry through specialty fusion drinks and traditional recipes from the 1920s era. This comprehensive beverage program ensures that every guest finds the perfect accompaniment to their dining experience, whether seeking a casual dinner drink or an authentic speakeasy cocktail adventure. Prime downtown location at the corner of Fort King Street provides convenient access to historic downtown <a href="/location/ocala" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-700 underline">Ocala</a> attractions while offering outdoor dining options that allow guests to enjoy their meals al fresco just outside the front door, creating perfect opportunities for people-watching and enjoying the vibrant downtown atmosphere. This strategic location makes Ivy on the Square an ideal destination for both locals seeking exceptional dining and visitors exploring the cultural heart of Marion County. Flexible dining schedule accommodates diverse guest preferences through Tuesday-Wednesday hours from 11 AM to 9 PM and extended Thursday-Saturday service from 11 AM to 10 PM, ensuring that both lunch and dinner guests can enjoy the restaurant's offerings while maintaining the intimate, unhurried atmosphere that characterizes exceptional Southern dining. The restaurant is closed Sunday and Monday, allowing staff to maintain the high standards of preparation and service that distinguish the establishment. Special occasion expertise extends beyond daily dining service to encompass catering capabilities and special event hosting that brings Ivy on the Square's exceptional Southern cuisine and hospitality to private celebrations, corporate events, and community gatherings throughout <a href="/location/marion-county" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-700 underline">Marion County</a>. This catering excellence ensures that the restaurant's signature dishes and professional service enhance any special occasion with authentic Southern charm and culinary sophistication. Award-winning recognition includes rankings among Florida Trend's "500 Best Restaurants in Florida" and consistent praise from dining critics and guests who appreciate the restaurant's commitment to authenticity, quality, and exceptional service. These accolades reflect the establishment's success in preserving and presenting genuine Southern culinary traditions while adapting to contemporary dining expectations and maintaining the highest standards of food quality and guest experience. Community engagement demonstrates Ivy on the Square's commitment to downtown Ocala's cultural and economic vitality through active participation in local events, support for community organizations, and contributions to the vibrant restaurant scene that makes historic downtown a destination for residents and visitors seeking authentic Florida dining experiences that celebrate both culinary excellence and regional heritage. Ivy on the Square represents the perfect fusion of authentic Southern cuisine, hidden speakeasy excitement, downtown convenience, and genuine hospitality, where traditional recipes, craft beverages, intimate atmosphere, and exceptional service combine to create an extraordinary dining destination that honors Southern culinary heritage while providing contemporary guests with memorable experiences in the heart of historic downtown Ocala.

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.