Newly Added Classes   

This is a beginning class for students that would like to learn to pinch coil and slab clay to make fun and interesting pots. 

Note: Students may get dirty with clay, please wear appropriate clothing, a hand towel is handy. No experience is necessary. Course cost includes tools, up to 12 pounds of throwing clay and firings.

The goal of the class will be that students will learn and gain a working knowledge of the critical aspects of writing fiction. At the conclusion of the course, each student should have an understanding of how to craft a story. 

Student Learning Outcomes
•    The basic techniques and terminology of fiction writing
•    The basic elements of fiction writing
•    How to identify point of view in fiction and how to write from one specific point of view
•    How to craft a scene with evocative detail and tension
•    How to develop empathetic characters
•    How to identify plot in a story
•    How to tie all the above elements together into a cohesive structure 
•    Each student will complete one story of a minimum of 1000 words.
These outcomes will be achieved through the following work:
•    Critical examination of selected writing examples
•    Examination of student writings created from in class assignments
•    Lecture on various elements of fiction writing to include:
o    Plot
o    Character
o    Point of View
o    Scene/ Summary
o    Dialogue

Have you ever seen a beautiful quilt and wished that you could make one?  Join our introduction to the quilting arts lecture and explore the methods, equipment and techniques required to make your own beautiful quilting blocks. This lecture/trunk show will give participants the information required prior to enrolling in the "Begin at the Beginning:  Quilting 101" course.

In this one day course you will create, from a plain 8X10 tile, a one of a kind colorful mosaic piece that can be placed outside. Materials will include glass mosaic tiles, fused glass and other unusual materials to make this decorative piece. We will discuss adhesives and grouting.  All materials are provided and you only need to bring your imagination.

This is a beginning class for students that would like to learn to pinch coil and slab clay to make fun and interesting pots. 

Note: Students may get dirty with clay, please wear appropriate clothing, a hand towel is handy. No experience is necessary. Course cost includes tools, up to 12 pounds of throwing clay and firings.

It's time to play in the mud on the potter's wheel! Potters will develop skills for creating wheel-thrown pots of form and function for everyday use. The potter's wheel and ideas will be the foundation for exploring personal expression in these wheel-thrown pots. There will be an abundance of one-on-one instruction for individual skill building in a small class setting. Course cost includes tools, up to 12 pounds of throwing clay and firings.

Please be aware this class requires a certain level of manual dexterity and hand strength.

This class is designed for students who have prior experience with hand-building techniques and are ready to expand their skills. Students will refine pinch, coil, and slab methods while exploring more complex forms, surface design, and construction techniques. Emphasis will be placed on craftsmanship, problem-solving, and developing individual style.

Note: Students may get dirty with clay; please wear appropriate clothing, and a hand towel is recommended. Prior hand-building experience is required. Supply fee: $45

Begin the tour by exploring the Bryant House located at 712 East Fort King Street, which is the home of the Historic Ocala Preservation Society. This Victorian style home built in 1892 is named in honor of William Bryant who was the first owner. After viewing the home take a walking tour around Ocala’s historic Downtown Square and through residential neighborhoods to learn about Ocala’s oldest buildings and the people who occupied them. Learn about the Thanksgiving Day Fire of 1883 which destroyed five city square blocks. As a result, the business district made of wood was rapidly rebuilt utilizing brick and fire resistant construction materials, and thus Ocala became known as the “Brick City.”

Participants should be prepare to walk approximately 2 miles and navigate sidewalks, curbs.  Sneakers or good walking shoes are recommend with a bottle a water.  Location to meet: Historic Ocala Preservation Society, 712 E. Fort King St. Ocala Fl 34471.

Please park in the corner lot of S.E. Fort King Street and Sanchez Ave. 

Learn to paint like Bob Ross in one day. Dan Willcox leads students through creating a beautiful masterpiece, no previous painting experience required. Take home a completed painting. Students are led through every step, from preparing the canvas, how to use the brushes/pallet knives, loading the paint correctly on the tools and then feeling the magic and exhilaration of brush touching canvas. No patterns or tracings are needed for this style of painting. The goal is to teach the process, technique and encourage each student to 'just let out their creativity,' so they will have so much fun, joy, and just love to paint. Any one truly can be successful at this style of painting.

In this course, the participants will learn about pharmacogenetic testing and see if this is something that may benefit them.

It's time to play in the mud on the potter's wheel! Potters will develop skills for creating wheel-thrown pots of form and function for everyday use. The potter's wheel and ideas will be the foundation for exploring personal expression in these wheel-thrown pots. There will be an abundance of one-on-one instruction for individual skill building in a small class setting. Course cost includes tools, up to 12 pounds of throwing clay and firings.

Please be aware this class requires a certain level of manual dexterity and hand strength.

Participants will have designated workspace for personal hand-building during studio time, along with full access to all shared studio facilities and tools. Clay suitable for hand-building projects will be available for purchase from the instructor for $45 per 25-lb bag.

Note: Please be aware this class requires a certain level of manual dexterity and hand strength.

Join us for special screenings of beloved classic films that celebrate a defining era in our nation’s history. Each timeless story offers unforgettable characters, music, and inspiration. Popcorn and goodies will be served for the full movie experience. Don't miss out on this film extravaganza!

This course is an open studio session chock full of great fun and creative energy for all ceramicists. There is still 1on 1 teaching to help refine what you learned in the basic course It is designed for clay artists with prior wheel throwing experience. Students should have a sufficient understanding of basic methods of centering, throwing and glazing techniques. Projects must have instructor approval. Clay can be purchased for $45 for 25 lbs and glazes included. Don't forget your towel!   Prerequisites: Should have completed Beginner Wheel-POT113.

Note: Please be aware this class requires a certain level of manual dexterity and hand strength.

Competitive Excellence pulls back the curtain on what it truly takes to compete, and win, at the highest levels of equestrian sport with Chester Weber. Weber is one of the most dominant and influential figures in combined driving. A multi-time FEI World Champion and U.S. National Champion, Weber has represented the United States on the world stage for decades while shaping the future of the sport through leadership roles with USET, USEF, and key high-performance committees. Joined by members of his team, he delivers an energetic, behind-the-scenes look at the relentless preparation, strategy, and teamwork required to stay competitive, including insights from producing FEI-level sport at Live Oak International on the Weber family’s 5,000-acre Live Oak Stud. A two-time USEF Equestrian of Honor, Weber celebrates the extraordinary partnership between athlete and horse, highlighted by his legendary horse Jamaica, the 2008 USEF Horse of the Year and 2013 EQUUS Foundation Hall of Fame inductee, as the heart of true competitive excellence.

This is a beginning class for students that would like to learn to pinch coil and slab clay to make fun and interesting pots. 

Note: Students may get dirty with clay, please wear appropriate clothing, a hand towel is handy. No experience is necessary. Course cost includes tools, up to 12 pounds of throwing clay and firings.

This course is an open studio session chock full of great fun and creative energy for all ceramicists. There is still 1on 1 teaching to help refine what you learned in the basic course It is designed for clay artists with prior wheel throwing experience. Students should have a sufficient understanding of basic methods of centering, throwing and glazing techniques. Projects must have instructor approval. Clay can be purchased for $45 for 25 lbs and glazes included. Don't forget your towel!   Prerequisites: Should have completed Beginner Wheel-POT113.

Note: Please be aware this class requires a certain level of manual dexterity and hand strength.

Want to plan your own trip to Italy or your free days from a cruise or tour?  Join us for this workshop that will cover:  

•    The key to successful travel
•    Elements of a trip
•    How to organize
•    Tips and strategies for navigating Italy independently

Bring a notebook and sense of fun for this interactive workshop.  Buon Viaggio.

Participants will have designated workspace for personal hand-building during studio time, along with full access to all shared studio facilities and tools. Clay suitable for hand-building projects will be available for purchase from the instructor for $45 per 25-lb bag.

Note: Please be aware this class requires a certain level of manual dexterity and hand strength.

Join us for an exclusive field trip to E-ONE, Ocala's global leader in emergency response vehicle manufacturing. This tour offers a unique opportunity to explore their recently expanded 442,000 square-foot facility, where innovative fire trucks and rescue vehicles are designed and built. Learn about the intricate process behind creating aerial ladders, custom pumpers, aircraft rescue firefighting vehicles, and more. Discover how E-ONE's state-of-the-art technology and skilled workforce of nearly 1,000 employees ensure world-class quality and safety in every vehicle. This tour is perfect for anyone interested in manufacturing, emergency services, or cutting-edge industrial processes.

Location: 1601 S.W. 37th Ave, Ocala, FL 34474

Start Time: The tour will begin promptly at 10:00 AM. Please plan to arrive early for check-in and parking.

Dress Code: Closed-toe shoes are required. Anyone wearing open-toed shoes will be denied entry.

Important Reminders:

• Location: Participants will arrive directly at 1601 S.W. 37th Ave, Ocala, FL 34474 unless you wish to attempt and carpool as parking is limited.
• Carpooling Recommended: If you do not already have a ride, you may meet at the MTP lobby to try and connect with others who may be interested in carpooling, if there are any others attempting to do so. Be sure to arrive early.
• Walking Distance: The tour is just over a mile long—wear comfortable shoes and please be prepared for walking.
• Safety Gear: All attendees will be issued safety glasses and earplugs/headphones upon arrival.
• Weather Considerations: Depending on conditions, umbrellas may be useful. Adjustments will be made as needed.
• Meeting Point: Registered Participants will gather at the Welcome Center under the front overhang before the tour begins.
• Parking: Parking arrangements are being finalized and may be limited. Please allow extra time to find a spot.

U.S. Military Caisson Horses offers a rare and compelling look into one of the nation’s most solemn and revered traditions- the U.S. Army Caisson Team of The Old Guard. Through the firsthand experience of Chester Weber, a world-renowned horseman and multi-time FEI World Champion, participants gain rare insight into the precision, discipline, and emotional weight carried by these horses and soldiers. In recent years, the Caisson Team has traveled regularly to Ocala to train with Weber, preparation that culminated in their historic role in President Jimmy Carter’s funeral procession in Washington, D.C., with Weber working alongside the unit. This compelling presentation explores the legacy of the Old Guard, the unique partnership between elite horsemanship and military honor, and the team’s upcoming role in Live Oak International color guard ceremonies, creating a powerful, moving experience for veterans, history enthusiasts, and anyone drawn to the intersection of service, ceremony, and horses.

See what all of the Paramount Plus fuss is about and meet a few of our famous Marion County Chopper Cops in this behind-the-scenes tour. Have you ever wondered what it takes to fly a helicopter?  What it takes to fly one while actively pursuing a suspect? Join us on a tour of the Marion County Sherriff’s "Chopper Cops" hangar and listen to the chief pilot describe the operation and the specialized training that they must go through to help keep us safe. There is a lot of walking with no seating. 

An energizing combination of walking and stopping for functional movement and light exercise at regular intervals. The park experience will allow the participant to enjoy outdoor elements like fresh air, sunshine, and the social aspect of group activities in a beautiful park setting.    Note: Class will meet at the pavilion. Please bring a bottle of water and comfortable shoes.

1st Week : Warm-up full body strech, walk as a group for 1/4 mile at a moderate pace. Add fuctional movements. 

2nd Week: Walk another 1/4 mile and add some boxing movements. 

3rd Week: Walk another 1/4 mile while doing the Indian Walk and various movements.

4th Week: Will be a combination of cones, colored discs on the grass, with a progressively harder combination to work on brain power. 

This program features spy personalities, little-known operations, many unique artifacts and a new combination of operational missions. Some were highly successful; some wound up on the cutting room floor. All were creative, cutting edge, and even humorous. Plus, a thought provoking journey into a creative collection category.

The class involves cooking ground turkey with a variety of vegetables, beans, and spices, then simmering to meld flavors and thicken. The result is a flexible, flavorful chili that can be adjusted for thickness, heat, and dietary needs. 

Note: Ingredients are included in the class fee. Students must bring: 6-qt (or larger) heavy-bottom pot or Dutch oven, wooden spoon for stirring, knife and cutting board, measuring spoons and cups.

Join us for special screenings of beloved classic films that celebrate a defining era in our nation’s history. Each timeless story offers unforgettable characters, music, and inspiration. Popcorn and goodies will be served for the full movie experience. Don't miss out on this film extravaganza!

It's time to play in the mud on the potter's wheel! Potters will develop skills for creating wheel-thrown pots of form and function for everyday use. The potter's wheel and ideas will be the foundation for exploring personal expression in these wheel-thrown pots. There will be an abundance of one-on-one instruction for individual skill building in a small class setting. Course cost includes tools, up to 12 pounds of throwing clay and firings.

Please be aware this class requires a certain level of manual dexterity and hand strength.

Participants will have designated workspace for personal hand-building during studio time, along with full access to all shared studio facilities and tools. Clay suitable for hand-building projects will be available for purchase from the instructor for $45 per 25-lb bag.

Note: Please be aware this class requires a certain level of manual dexterity and hand strength.

Apologetics is the study of the defense of one's beliefs. There are apologists in diverse fields, among them Christian apologists defending the Bible. This class delves into their defense in several areas: support from documentation of ancient manuscripts, archaeology, corroboration of secular historians and accuracy of historic Biblical prophecies. Food for thought- whatever your view of the Bible.

This is a beginning class for students that would like to learn to pinch coil and slab clay to make fun and interesting pots. 

Note: Students may get dirty with clay, please wear appropriate clothing, a hand towel is handy. No experience is necessary. Course cost includes tools, up to 12 pounds of throwing clay and firings.

This course is an open studio session chock full of great fun and creative energy for all ceramicists. There is still 1on 1 teaching to help refine what you learned in the basic course It is designed for clay artists with prior wheel throwing experience. Students should have a sufficient understanding of basic methods of centering, throwing and glazing techniques. Projects must have instructor approval. Clay can be purchased for $45 for 25 lbs and glazes included. Don't forget your towel!   Prerequisites: Should have completed Beginner Wheel-POT113.

Note: Please be aware this class requires a certain level of manual dexterity and hand strength.

Based on the book Have a Love Affair with the USA by world travelers Evelyn and Natalie Kelly, this course invites participants to rediscover the beauty, diversity, and spirit of the United States. Through engaging short stories and discussion, students will explore natural wonders, iconic cities, local culture, food traditions, roadside curiosities, and practical travel tips drawn from journeys across all 50 states. Ideal for curious learners, armchair travelers, and anyone inspired by America’s people and places.

This class is designed for students who have prior experience with hand-building techniques and are ready to expand their skills. Students will refine pinch, coil, and slab methods while exploring more complex forms, surface design, and construction techniques. Emphasis will be placed on craftsmanship, problem-solving, and developing individual style.

Note: Students may get dirty with clay; please wear appropriate clothing, and a hand towel is recommended. Prior hand-building experience is required. Supply fee: $45

This introductory presentation explores artificial intelligence as a practical, everyday tool rather than something intimidating. Drawing on his own experience using AI, instructor Emmett Coyne demonstrates how it can support writing, learning, and answering everyday questions. The session is conversational in nature, guided by participants’ curiosity rather than technical expertise.

This course will further enable conversation skills. After a quick review from previous levels, we will cover the past tenses (preterite and imperfect), a master list of the most common Spanish verbs, how to ask and give directions, and useful vocabulary for travelers. Each session will feature online video instruction and practice with partners. Prerequisite: Any introductory Spanish course.

Create a Wire Wrapped Heart Shaped Tree of Life using wire and various color gemstones. No experience required.

Supply $20 material fee to be paid to instructor on the day of class.

Join us for a follow-up to Basic Spanish I. After a review, participants will learn the present tense; command forms, common irregular verbs and idiomatic expressions, practical application to life situations, including phrases to use when shopping, ordering meals while eating out, and asking general questions. Prerequisite: Any Introductory Spanish course. 

T'ai Chi Chih is an easier form of T'ai Chi to learn.  Regular practice of the gentle movements results in a state of well-being from the inside-out and far-reaching benefits.  Participants will learn fundamentals of how to move, 7 to 9 of the movements and experience a T'ai Chi Chih practice with the instructor.  

Note: Class meet at Sholom Park at 7110 SW 80th Ave, Ocala, FL 34481- Pavilion Area.

Join us for an exclusive field trip to E-ONE, Ocala's global leader in emergency response vehicle manufacturing. This tour offers a unique opportunity to explore their recently expanded 442,000 square-foot facility, where innovative fire trucks and rescue vehicles are designed and built. Learn about the intricate process behind creating aerial ladders, custom pumpers, aircraft rescue firefighting vehicles, and more. Discover how E-ONE's state-of-the-art technology and skilled workforce of nearly 1,000 employees ensure world-class quality and safety in every vehicle. This tour is perfect for anyone interested in manufacturing, emergency services, or cutting-edge industrial processes.

Location: 1601 S.W. 37th Ave, Ocala, FL 34474

Start Time: The tour will begin promptly at 10:00 AM. Please plan to arrive early for check-in and parking.

Dress Code: Closed-toe shoes are required. Anyone wearing open-toed shoes will be denied entry.

Important Reminders:

• Location: Participants will arrive directly at 1601 S.W. 37th Ave, Ocala, FL 34474 unless you wish to attempt and carpool as parking is limited.
• Carpooling Recommended: If you do not already have a ride, you may meet at the MTP lobby to try and connect with others who may be interested in carpooling, if there are any others attempting to do so. Be sure to arrive early.
• Walking Distance: The tour is just over a mile long—wear comfortable shoes and please be prepared for walking.
• Safety Gear: All attendees will be issued safety glasses and earplugs/headphones upon arrival.
• Weather Considerations: Depending on conditions, umbrellas may be useful. Adjustments will be made as needed.
• Meeting Point: Registered Participants will gather at the Welcome Center under the front overhang before the tour begins.
• Parking: Parking arrangements are being finalized and may be limited. Please allow extra time to find a spot.

Discover the remarkable evolution of U.S. military small arms during the First and Second World Wars. This course will explore how the United States became the "Arsenal of Democracy," supplying not only its own forces but also those of its allies through industrial innovation and mass production.

You'll learn about the design, function, and history of the weapons that helped shape the modern battlefield—from bolt-action rifles and semi-automatic pistols to revolvers and carbines. Topics include:

 

• Weapon types and their intended battlefield roles
• Caliber, dimensions, and technical specifications
• Manufacturing origins, including production years and facilities
• Distribution to various military branches and theaters of war
• Total production numbers and historical context

The instructor will present a curated selection of original U.S. small arms from the era. At the conclusion of the class, participants will have the unique opportunity to view—and carefully handle—some of these authentic historical artifacts.

Whether you're a military history enthusiast, collector, or simply curious, this course offers an unforgettable hands-on journey through America's wartime armament legacy.

Scammers are always coming up with new ways to steal your money, and your peace of mind. In this interactive class, you’ll learn how to spot the latest scams, understand the warning signs, and take practical steps to protect your finances. Walk away with the knowledge and confidence to safeguard your money and secure your financial future.

Experience the Vietnam War through the eyes of a combat helicopter pilot. In this compelling class, Stephen Petty shares firsthand insights into helicopter operations in Vietnam, from intense combat assaults to the split-second decisions made under fire. Learn how pilots planned and executed missions, adapted tactics in real time, and faced the physical and emotional challenges of flying in a combat zone. This unique perspective brings history to life from the cockpit.

Children and teens in foster care are often moved around and become abandoned by loss of contact with parents and ever changing case workers and foster homes. As a Guardian ad Litem (GAL) you are appointed with authority by family court as an advocate to the foster child. You become a stable force in their lives, offering a significant bond through monthly visits, and advocating for them to the court. Register to learn about becoming a volunteer. No previous experience is needed, other than a caring heart.

Join us for an exclusive field trip to E-ONE, Ocala's global leader in emergency response vehicle manufacturing. This tour offers a unique opportunity to explore their recently expanded 442,000 square-foot facility, where innovative fire trucks and rescue vehicles are designed and built. Learn about the intricate process behind creating aerial ladders, custom pumpers, aircraft rescue firefighting vehicles, and more. Discover how E-ONE's state-of-the-art technology and skilled workforce of nearly 1,000 employees ensure world-class quality and safety in every vehicle. This tour is perfect for anyone interested in manufacturing, emergency services, or cutting-edge industrial processes.

Location: 1601 S.W. 37th Ave, Ocala, FL 34474

Start Time: The tour will begin promptly at 10:00 AM. Please plan to arrive early for check-in and parking.

Dress Code: Closed-toe shoes are required. Anyone wearing open-toed shoes will be denied entry.

Important Reminders:

• Location: Participants will arrive directly at 1601 S.W. 37th Ave, Ocala, FL 34474 unless you wish to attempt and carpool as parking is limited.
• Carpooling Recommended: If you do not already have a ride, you may meet at the MTP lobby to try and connect with others who may be interested in carpooling, if there are any others attempting to do so. Be sure to arrive early.
• Walking Distance: The tour is just over a mile long—wear comfortable shoes and please be prepared for walking.
• Safety Gear: All attendees will be issued safety glasses and earplugs/headphones upon arrival.
• Weather Considerations: Depending on conditions, umbrellas may be useful. Adjustments will be made as needed.
• Meeting Point: Registered Participants will gather at the Welcome Center under the front overhang before the tour begins.
• Parking: Parking arrangements are being finalized and may be limited. Please allow extra time to find a spot.

This compelling class offers a rare, firsthand account of U.S. Navy SEAL operations during the Vietnam War, presented by retired Navy Captain Robert “Pete” Peterson. As one of the first UDT and Frogmen to be designated as a Navy SEAL, Pete Peterson helped form the earliest SEAL teams and led SEAL Team 2 into combat in Vietnam. He is widely credited with shaping the operational framework that later evolved into modern SEAL capture and kill missions, earning the Silver Star and Purple Heart for his service.

The program begins with a screening of the Prime Video documentary A Bond Unbroken, narrated by Bob Woodruff. The film follows a powerful reunion decades after the war, as U.S. Navy SEALs return to Vietnam to reconnect with their former combat interpreter, Nguyen Hoang Minh. Through archival footage of actual SEAL missions, the documentary highlights enduring bonds, sacrifice, and loyalty forged in combat.

Following the film, Captain Peterson will provide personal insight into SEAL missions and operations in Vietnam. The class concludes with a live question-and-answer session featuring the documentary’s producer, Rick Dobbis, along with Captain Steve Petty, offering additional perspective on mission execution and the use of helicopters in SEAL operations.

Learn to paint like Bob Ross in one day. Dan Willcox leads students through creating a beautiful masterpiece, no previous painting experience required. Take home a completed painting. Students are led through every step, from preparing the canvas, how to use the brushes/pallet knives, loading the paint correctly on the tools and then feeling the magic and exhilaration of brush touching canvas. No patterns or tracings are needed for this style of painting. The goal is to teach the process, technique and encourage each student to 'just let out their creativity,' so they will have so much fun, joy, and just love to paint. Any one truly can be successful at this style of painting.

Have you ever wanted to dance to Broadway tunes, movie theme songs, or pop favorites? You will learn Jazz choreography to reflect the genre of each particular style of dance. Props may be used such as hats or canes. Jazz shoes or jazz sneakers are appropriate for this class. "Let's take it from the top: 5,6,7,8!!!"

Those interested may participate in a routine that will be recorded on the last day. A link to this recording will be shared by the instructor for participants to enjoy afterwards.

Think of a healthy protein and fiber-packed soup . We will create a Vegan black bean, sweet potato, lentil soup with vegetables and spices to ramp up the flavor profile for a delicious and nutritious meal suitable for all palates. Suitable for beginner cooks. 

Note: Ingredients are included in the class fee. Students must bring large pot with lid, wooden spoon, chef's knife, and optional cutting board, measuring cups/spoons, peeler, and ladle.

Presented by Chairman Carl Zalak, III

Get an insider’s look at where Marion County is headed in this dynamic State of the County presentation. Hear directly from county leadership as they share how the county is growing, planning, and making strategic decisions that shape our community’s future. Explore major projects, emerging priorities, and the challenges and opportunities influencing daily life for residents. This engaging session offers transparency, insight, and a deeper understanding of how local government works for you. Come away informed, inspired, and connected to the vision guiding Marion County forward.

See what all of the Paramount Plus fuss is about and meet a few of our famous Marion County Chopper Cops in this behind-the-scenes tour. Have you ever wondered what it takes to fly a helicopter?  What it takes to fly one while actively pursuing a suspect? Join us on a tour of the Marion County Sherriff’s "Chopper Cops" hangar and listen to the chief pilot describe the operation and the specialized training that they must go through to help keep us safe. There is a lot of walking with no seating. 

This is a beginning class for students that would like to learn to pinch coil and slab clay to make fun and interesting pots. 

Note: Students may get dirty with clay, please wear appropriate clothing, a hand towel is handy. No experience is necessary. Course cost includes tools, up to 12 pounds of throwing clay and firings.