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Candace Shelton, representing the Ocala/Marion County Visitors and Convention Bureau, highlights how premier venues like the World Equestrian Center, Florida Horse Park, and Southeastern Livestock Pavilion solidify the region’s identity as the "Horse Capital of the World®." She illustrates how the synergy between historic Thoroughbred roots and modern equine tourism drives massive economic growth and international visitation. By leveraging these diverse assets, the county sustains a year-round competitive landscape that bolsters the regional economy and supports local job creation.

Circle Square Cultural Center (CSCC) brings world-class performers to an 930-seat entertainment venue in Ocala, FL. Each event on the schedule involves a tremendous amount of planning and preparation. Come behind the scenes with Gary Pierre, Jessica Marshall and Gary Manges to see the "green" rooms, where performers do make-up and costuming. Learn about the front of the house and backstage equipment management. The team shares information about how shows are booked, sometimes years in advance, and what it takes to bring a group to the CSCC stage. Hear insider stories about show production, which are interesting as well as entertaining! After attending this class, you will never again think about a concert in the same way.

Join On Top of the Worlds Corporate Health & Safety Training Compliance Officer, Danny Dominguez, and SCA Golf Maintenance Superintendent Andy Jorgensen for this informative presentation. They will educate users how you can prevent injury to pedestrians, utility cart operators and their passengers. This course will also relate requirements for safety devices, operating procedures, laws, operator accountability and enforcement. Participants will be able to discuss their safety concerns.

Join us for a presentation from our very own construction team to learn about the techniques and features of homes built at On Top of the World. Learn about all construction stages, as well as exactly what the HERS, Energy Star and Florida Water Star rating entails. Students will meet the instructor at the MTP building for a classroom instruction. Students who are intersted in visiting homes under construction are encouraged to join for Part II of this course. 

 

Learn about the history and beauty of Ocala's best kept secret. Walk along with Managing Director Robert Colen, and Park Manager Brian DeVane, as they share how it all began and show you a "peace" of Sholom in this interactive Walk and Talk experience. Registered students will meet at the pavilion near the restrooms.

Join Debbie Garcia‑Bengochea, Education Director of Gentle Carousel Miniature Therapy Horses, for an inspiring look at one of the nation’s most unique therapy programs. Gentle Carousel is a nonprofit organization that trains miniature horses to provide comfort, encouragement, and therapy to children and adults in hospitals, schools, hospice care, and communities affected by trauma.

These gentle, highly social horses visit patients, students, and community members to bring joy, reduce stress, and support emotional and physical healing. In this course, Debbie will share the story of Gentle Carousel, explain how these therapy horses are trained, and show the ways their programs, including literacy, rehabilitation, and trauma support, make a meaningful impact. Students will even have the special opportunity to meet one of the miniature therapy horses in person, experiencing firsthand the magic of these small but mighty equine therapists.

Join us for a continuation from our very own construction team for a tour of an active construction site.  The team will point out and demonstrate some the techniques and features of homes built at On Top of the World. Learn about the various construction stages as we tour parts of the community.  Students are required to wear closed toe shoes. Students will meet the instructor at the MTP building to head prior to driving into the field in the bus.

Learn basics of maintaining your home, so you can do minor projects yourself and know when to call a professional. From changing air conditioner filters to fixing clogged toilets and sinks to understanding fuses; this overview will help build your confidence and get you started. Go over how to build a basic tool kit, how to approach things with safety in mind, and when you should not attempt to do it yourself. Bring questions about maintenance projects you would like to tackle.

Come for a behind-the-scenes tour of the Florida Aquatics Swimming and Training (FAST) facility. It's open to the public and the house of aquatics training from beginners to Olympians. Meet the tour guide at the front desk just inside the main entrance at the FAST facility.

This course offers an overview of Ocala International Airport, its role in serving Marion County, and its plans for future growth. Participants will learn who the airport is, what the airport is, and where the airport is going. Hear how it supports local business and tourism, with special focus on its connection to Ocala’s horse industry. Discover how the airport helps connect the Horse Capital of the World® to national and international visitors.

In Florida, the summers throughout the state are long, hot, and fairly humid; air conditioning is a necessity here. Learn about the components of an HVAC system. Understand what proper maintenance is and what it entails. Reject common misconceptions about A/C systems by becoming aware of the facts and prepare yourself with the knowledge necessary to avoid costly and unnecessary repairs and investments in new equipment.

Please join Danny Dominguez, from On Top Of The World/Colen Built Development, in this very informative class for "Active Shooter” presentation, which was presented by the “ALICE” Training Institute." This class will provide you with the knowledge and skills to enhance your survival should you become the unfortunate victim of a violent intruder scenario. Jonathan is a certified active shooter instructor." The acronym for "ALICE" stands for (Alert, Lockdown, Inform, Counter, Evacuate). This class provides an instructor led class that provides preparation and a plan for individuals and organizations on how to more proactively handle the threat of an aggressive or violent intruder or active shooter event. Whether it is an attack by an individual person or by an international group of professionals intent on conveying a political message through violence, ALICE Training option based tactics have become the accepted response, versus the traditional "lockdown only" approach.

Learn about the inspiring mission of Wreaths Across America, a nationwide effort dedicated to honoring veterans by placing remembrance wreaths on their graves each December. In this informative presentation, participants will discover the history of the organization, the meaning behind the wreath-laying tradition, and how local communities take part. Attendees will also learn simple ways they can support the mission whether by volunteering, sponsoring wreaths, or sharing the stories of those who served, while connecting with others who value remembrance and patriotism.

Experience areas of Sholom Park that were not covered at your first Walk and Talk. Explore the Enchanted Forest, Fragrance Trail, Food Forest, and a behind the scenes look at how the park is operated with Managing Director, Robert Colen and Park Manager, Brian DeVane in Part Two of Sholom Park's Walk and Talk. Registered students will meet at the pavilion near the restrooms.

Discover the remarkable story of Silver Springs, one of Florida's most treasured natural landmarks and an essential environmental and economic asset to Marion County. This engaging course explores the springs' fascinating history, unique geology, diverse habitats, and the many plant and animal species that call this ecosystem home. Participants will learn how Silver Springs contributes to conservation education, and regional water health, making it a vital resource for residents and future generations. The course also highlights why protecting the springs is critical to preserving Florida's natural heritage, emphasizing responsible stewardship and sustainable recreation. Various ways to experience and enjoy the park, from glass-bottom boat tours to hiking, paddling, and wildlife viewing, will be described and illustrated, encouraging participants to connect more deeply with this iconic natural wonder.

Celebrate the creativity and equestrian spirit that define the Horse Fever phenomenon. Join Laurie Zink, co-chair of all Horse Fever herds, for an engaging presentation exploring the history and impact of this beloved public art project that began in 2001 and helped spark the creation of the Marion Cultural Alliance.

Learn how life-sized, artist-painted horse sculptures have become a signature symbol of Marion County’s equestrian heritage and how the project has raised funds to support local arts. Laurie will highlight memorable horses from all four herds, share images and stories behind their designs, and introduce the new 25th Anniversary collection. Participants will also have the opportunity to see Tribute 25, the 2026 commemorative statue created by artist Sharon Crute, up close during the presentation.

Presented in partnership with the Florida Thoroughbred Breeders' and Owners' Association, this program offers a fascinating look at the art, community spirit, and horse culture that helped make Marion County the Horse Capital of the World®.

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.

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®.

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.