One of the first lessons Lori Szepelak learned from her first newspaper editor more than 40 years ago was simple: "There is a story around every corner, and it is your job to find it!" Throughout her career as a reporter, she took that message to heart and sought out human interest stories that would resonate with readers. In this program, she will discuss her passion for uncovering compelling stories and how connections always led her to intriguing individuals, places, and events. Currently residing at OTOW, she serves as the "editor" of her neighborhood newsletter and will share insights for those aspiring to create their own newsletter, which promises to foster a sense of community among neighbors.
Instructor:Lori SzepelakMembers: $5; General Public: $10
Course #:WRI120 | Room:Room 1
Day of Week | Date | Time: Tu | 11/10/2026 | 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM Seats Available:8
Participants will join the knowledgeable staff of Ocala Breeders Feed & Supply Mill for an informative behind-the-scenes tour of the equine feed manufacturing facilities. The experience will include an overview of the company’s history, the scope of its operations, and its role in supporting the equine industry. The tour will also explore the importance of local feed production in Ocala, Florida, and its impact on horse health, regional agriculture, and the area’s standing as the Horse Capital of the World®.
Join Sholom Park for its monthly Learn, Explore, Appreciate & Focus series, where special guest speakers share their expertise on topics ranging from wildlife and nature to the park's mission of fostering inner peace. Register to enjoy an engaging outdoor learning experience at Sholom Park.
Mother Tree: How Trees Communicate with Maxine Hunter
Discover the remarkable hidden world beneath the forest floor and explore how trees interact in ways that continue to reshape our understanding of nature. Rather than functioning as thousands of independent organisms competing for survival, forests form complex living communities.
Learn how trees, fungi, bacteria, and soil create interconnected relationships that can be both cooperative and competitive. These underground networks can help trees exchange nutrients, respond to environmental challenges, and support younger trees growing nearby.
This presentation offers a closer look at the concept of the “mother tree” and the important role mature trees may play within a forest community. Participants will gain a greater appreciation for the intricate relationships that help forests grow, adapt, and survive.
Event #: LEA103 Location: Sholom ParkMembers: $10; General Public: $10
Day Of Week | Event Date | Time: F | 11/20/2026 | 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM Spots Available:27
Join Sholom Park for its monthly Learn, Explore, Appreciate & Focus series, where special guest speakers share their expertise on topics ranging from wildlife and nature to the park's mission of fostering inner peace. Register to enjoy an engaging outdoor learning experience at Sholom Park.
Building a Sholom Park Time Capsule of Hope with Lori Szepelak
As America concludes its 250th anniversary celebration, join us at Sholom Park for a meaningful community experience centered on reflection, creativity, and hope. Surrounded by the park's peaceful natural beauty, participants will help preserve a snapshot of life today for future generations.
Write a letter, share a favorite memory, compose a poem, include a cherished recipe, create a drawing, make a prediction for the future, or contribute anything else that captures this moment in time. Every submission will become part of Sholom Park's community time capsule.
The time capsule will be carefully sealed and opened 50 years from now, offering future visitors a remarkable glimpse into our lives, dreams, and aspirations. Together, we'll celebrate our shared history while creating a lasting legacy of hope for those who follow.
Community Experience: Every participant is invited to contribute a personal keepsake, message, or creative work to be preserved in the Sholom Park Time Capsule and rediscovered 50 years from now.
Event #: LEA103 Location: Sholom ParkMembers: $10; General Public: $10
Day Of Week | Event Date | Time: F | 12/4/2026 | 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM Spots Available:49
Register today and learn about the wide array of resources available to seniors in Marion County. This course provides valuable information on healthcare options, senior housing, social and recreational activities, transportation services, support networks, community initiatives, government assistance programs, and optimizing senior benefits. Whether you are a senior yourself or have a loved one who could benefit from these services, this course equips you with the knowledge to effectively navigate and access the available resources. This course can help empower you to make informed decisions and access the support you need.
Instructor:Douglas HartMembers: $5; General Public: $10
Course #:PUB133 | Room:Room 4
Day of Week | Date | Time: Th | 12/10/2026 | 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM Seats Available:6
Class is full. No further additions to wait list available.
Water is a valued commodity, especially here in Florida. Learn more about the complexities of water procurement here at On Top of the World as well as water treatment and wastewater disposal. Join staff on this behind-the-scenes tour of our facilities. Limited to 13 students; registration is required. The bus leaves at 9:00 AM but you need to check in first at Master the Possibilities Education Center (please bring drinking water).
Instructor:Bryan Schmalz Course #: TRI153 | Room:Field Trip Day of Week | Start Date | Time:F | 11/6/2026 | 9:00 AM - 12:30 PM
Class is full. No further additions to wait list available.
This limited-enrollment experience offers students a behind-the-scenes tour of Ocala International Airport led by Airport Director Matt Grow. Participants will learn how the airport operates, its role in economic growth and business aviation, and its strong connection to Ocala’s equine industry. The tour also provides insight into the airport’s future and its impact on the region.
Instructor:Matt Grow Course #: CMT163 | Room:Field Trip Day of Week | Start Date | Time:W | 12/2/2026 | 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Participants will join the knowledgeable staff of Ocala Breeders Feed & Supply Mill for an informative behind-the-scenes tour of the equine feed manufacturing facilities. The experience will include an overview of the company’s history, the scope of its operations, and its role in supporting the equine industry. The tour will also explore the importance of local feed production in Ocala, Florida, and its impact on horse health, regional agriculture, and the area’s standing as the Horse Capital of the World®.
Water is a valued commodity, especially here in Florida. Learn more about the complexities of water procurement here at On Top of the World as well as water treatment and wastewater disposal. Join staff on this behind-the-scenes tour of our facilities. Limited to 13 students; registration is required. The bus leaves at 9:00 AM but you need to check in first at Master the Possibilities Education Center (please bring drinking water).
This limited-enrollment experience offers students a behind-the-scenes tour of Ocala International Airport led by Airport Director Matt Grow. Participants will learn how the airport operates, its role in economic growth and business aviation, and its strong connection to Ocala’s equine industry. The tour also provides insight into the airport’s future and its impact on the region.
