Discover Ocala

In this episode of Discover Ocala, host Valerie Dailey sits down with Caitlin Downing, Executive Officer of the Marion County Building Industry Association (MCBIA), and Adam Perez, Co-Owner of Brije Custom Homes, to explore the organization supporting Marion County's building industry and one of its most anticipated annual events, the Parade of Homes.

As Marion County continues to grow, the MCBIA plays an important role in supporting the builders, tradespeople, and industry professionals who help shape our community. Through education, advocacy, professional development, and collaboration, the association works to promote quality construction, responsible building practices, and a stronger local housing industry. Caitlin and Adam share how these efforts benefit not only those working in construction, but also the homeowners and communities that depend on well-built homes.

The conversation also offers a look at the upcoming 2026 Parade of Homes, a free, self-guided event taking place over two weekends, November 6–8 and November 13–15. With 23 homes available to tour throughout Marion County, attendees can explore a variety of home designs, discover new trends, and experience the craftsmanship of local builders firsthand. This year also introduces a new Parade of Homes app, making it easier to explore participating homes and allowing visitors to vote for their favorites! Brije Custom Homes is also serving as the 2026 Featured Builder.

Whether you're considering building a home, looking for design inspiration, or simply interested in the people and organizations helping shape Marion County's future, this episode offers a great introduction to our local building community.

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🏠 Learn more about the MCBIA and Parade of Homes:
MCBIA.org
2026 Parade of Homes

🔨 Explore Brije Custom Homes:
Brije.com

🎧 Listen to more Discover Ocala episodes:
ShowcaseOcala.com/DiscoverOcalaPod

🏡 Discover Ocala is presented by Showcase Properties of Central Florida.
For over two decades, Showcase has helped customers throughout Central Florida achieve their unique real estate goals. Learn more at ShowcaseOcala.com.

In this episode of Discover Ocala, host Valerie Dailey sits down with Lela Kerley, board member of the Historic Ocala Preservation Society (HOPS), to explore the people, places, and stories that have shaped Ocala– and the work being done to preserve them for generations to come.

Founded in 1980 after residents came together to protect historic homes threatened by a proposed road widening, HOPS has spent more than four decades advocating for the preservation of Ocala’s architectural and cultural heritage. Today, that work extends throughout Ocala’s four historic districts: Downtown, the Southeast Historic District, Tuscawilla, and West Ocala.

Lela shares some of the resources HOPS provides for homeowners, history enthusiasts, and community members, along with opportunities to experience local history firsthand through walking tours, educational programs, special events, and more. She also discusses ways residents can become involved in preservation efforts through membership, volunteering, donations, and community participation.

And there’s plenty happening at HOPS throughout the year! Lela gives us a look at seasonal events, including the popular Ghost Tours leading up to Halloween and a creative Sip & Paint planned for the spring that will give old window panes a new life through upcycling and art.

As Lela puts it, “Historic preservation isn't just about history, it's about community.” This episode is a wonderful look at how protecting the places that tell Ocala’s story can help preserve the character and sense of place that make our community unique.

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🏛️ Learn more about the Historic Ocala Preservation Society:
HistoricOcala.org

🎧 Listen to more Discover Ocala episodes:
ShowcaseOcala.com/DiscoverOcalaPod

🏡 Discover Ocala is presented by Showcase Properties of Central Florida.
For over two decades, Showcase has helped customers throughout Central Florida achieve their unique real estate goals. Learn more at ShowcaseOcala.com.

In this episode of Discover Ocala, host Valerie Dailey is joined by Crystal McCazzio, UF/IFAS Marion County Extension Director, and Katie Davis, 4-H Youth Development Agent with UF/IFAS Marion County Extension, to explore the many opportunities available to young people through Marion County 4-H.

While raising and showing animals may be one of the first things that comes to mind when you think of 4-H, the program reaches far beyond the show ring. Marion County youth can explore their interests through forestry, entomology, public speaking, horticulture, government and civic engagement, along with judging teams focused on everything from livestock and horses to poultry, meat, forestry, and plant identification.

With opportunities tailored for youth as young as five, 4-H gives kids a place to discover new interests while building practical skills, confidence, leadership, and connections within their community. Crystal and Katie share how these hands-on experiences grow alongside participants, providing new challenges and opportunities as they progress through the program.

Whether your child already has a passion they want to pursue or is simply looking for something new to explore, this episode offers a great introduction to just how much there is to discover through Marion County 4-H.

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🍀 Learn more about Marion County 4-H:
UF/IFAS Extension Marion County 4-H

🎧 Listen to more Discover Ocala episodes:
ShowcaseOcala.com/DiscoverOcalaPod

🏡 Discover Ocala is presented by Showcase Properties of Central Florida.
For over two decades, Showcase has helped customers throughout Central Florida achieve their unique real estate goals. Learn more at ShowcaseOcala.com.

In this episode of Discover Ocala, host Valerie Dailey is joined by guests Buddy Oswald and Greg Harrell of the Marion County Braver Angels, a national organization dedicated to reducing political polarization and strengthening civic conversation across America.

Founded on the belief that Americans don’t have to agree on everything to work together, Braver Angels creates opportunities for people with differing viewpoints to engage in respectful dialogue, listen with curiosity, and better understand one another. Through workshops, debates, and community discussions, the organization encourages healthier conversations in an increasingly divided world.

Buddy and Greg share how the Marion County chapter is helping foster those conversations locally, why civil discourse matters, and how individuals from all backgrounds can participate in creating stronger community connections—even when opinions differ.

Rather than focusing on changing minds, Braver Angels focuses on rebuilding trust, encouraging empathy, and reminding people that disagreement doesn’t have to lead to division.

Whether you're deeply engaged in civic issues or simply looking for ways to have more meaningful conversations, this episode offers a thoughtful look at how communities can grow stronger through understanding and respectful dialogue.

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🔗 Learn more about Braver Angels:
https://braverangels.org/

🎧 Listen to more episodes:
https://www.ShowcaseOcala.com/DiscoverOcalaPod

🏡 Presented by Showcase Properties of Central Florida
Helping you Love Where You Live | https://www.ShowcaseOcala.com

In this episode of Discover Ocala, host Valerie Dailey is joined by Karla Grimsley-Greenway, CEO of Interfaith Emergency Services (IES), to spotlight the organization’s impact in Marion County and take a deeper look at one of their most beloved annual events—the 10th Annual High Tea.

IES serves as a critical safety net in the community, offering programs that provide food, clothing, job support, medical care, and emergency financial assistance. But beyond the day-to-day services, events like the High Tea play a vital role in sustaining and expanding that mission.

The High Tea is more than just a fundraiser—it’s an elegant, community-centered experience designed to bring people together in support of neighbors in need. Guests can expect a beautifully curated afternoon featuring tea service, light fare, and a welcoming, thoughtfully styled atmosphere, all while raising awareness and support for the work IES does year-round.

Karla shares how the event has grown over the past decade, why it resonates so strongly with attendees, and how community involvement through events like this directly impacts the lives of those IES serves.

Whether you're interested in attending, supporting the cause, or simply learning more about how local organizations are making a difference, this episode offers a meaningful look at the power of community connection.

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🎀 Learn more about Interfaith Emergency Services:
https://www.iesmarion.org/ourprograms

☕ Details on the 10th Annual High Tea:
https://www.iesmarion.org/high-tea

🎧 Listen to more episodes:
https://www.ShowcaseOcala.com/DiscoverOcalaPod

🏡 Presented by Showcase Properties of Central Florida
Helping you Love Where You Live | https://www.ShowcaseOcala.com

In this episode of Discover Ocala, host Valerie Dailey sits down with Jon Tyler, owner of Meeple Movers Board Game Cafe, to explore one of Ocala’s most unique and community-driven gathering spaces.

More than just a game shop, Meeple Movers is a board game café experience offering a welcoming environment where friends, families, and newcomers alike can unplug, connect, and play. With a vast library of tabletop games, community events, guided gameplay, and a full menu of food and drinks, the café creates a space where everyone can feel comfortable learning something new or rediscovering old favorites. 

Jon shares the story behind launching Meeple Movers, the inspiration for creating a space centered around connection and creativity, and how tabletop gaming continues to bring people together in meaningful ways. From casual game nights to organized events like trivia, RPG sessions, and themed gatherings, the café has quickly become a hub for fun and community in Ocala. 

Whether you're a lifelong gamer or just looking for a new way to spend time with friends, this episode highlights how a simple idea– gathering around a table– can create lasting connections.

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🎲 Learn more about Meeple Movers Board Game Cafe:
meeplemovers.com

🎧 Listen to more episodes:
ShowcaseOcala.com/DiscoverOcalaPod

🏡 Presented by Showcase Properties of Central Florida
Helping you Love Where You Live | ShowcaseOcala.com

In this episode of Discover Ocala, host Valerie Dailey sits down with Jim Boyer, Director of Research Operations at the University of Florida IFAS Plant Science Research and Education Unit in Citra, to explore one of North Central Florida’s most impactful research facilities.

Spanning 1,100 acres along the southern shores of Orange Lake, the Plant Science Research and Education Unit supports research on more than 140 agricultural commodities and works with nearly 100 UF faculty members annually. From blueberries and peanuts to turf grass, flowers, and even cold-tolerant coffee, the work happening in Citra helps farmers stay sustainable, profitable, and prepared for the future! 

Jim shares how plant breeding plays a critical role in feeding a growing global population, how new technologies are improving water use and soil health, and how partnerships with Extension offices across Florida ensure research makes its way directly to farmers and homeowners. 

Beyond research, the unit supports food security by donating harvested produce to local food banks and UF’s Field & Fork Pantry, ensuring its work benefits both local communities and producers across the state. The facility also hosts more than 100 tours each year and participates in community events like Farm City Week, offering the public a chance to see agricultural innovation firsthand.

Whether you’re curious about the future of food, plant breeding breakthroughs, or the science behind what grows in your own backyard, this episode offers an inside look at how Marion County and UF are helping shape agriculture for generations to come.

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🌱 Learn more about the UF/IFAS Plant Science Research and Education Unit at their website: wwww.plantscienceunit.ifas.ufl.edu

🎧 Listen to more episodes:
 ShowcaseOcala.com/DiscoverOcalaPod

🏡 Presented by Showcase Properties of Central Florida
 Helping you Love Where You Live | ShowcaseOcala.com

In this episode of Discover Ocala, host Valerie Dailey is joined by Jason Reynolds, Executive Director, and Kim Van Der Walt, Director of Events & Sponsorships, from the Florida Horse Park—a premier 500-acre facility at the heart of Florida’s equestrian landscape.

Situated along the Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway, the Florida Horse Park is a year-round venue that serves all breeds and disciplines, while also offering space for community events, ag education, training, and more. From international competitions to grassroots fundraisers, the park reflects the values of both performance and public service.

Jason and Kim share how the Horse Park continues to grow as a community-focused venue, offering free access to most events and even emergency stabling during hurricanes. With cutting-edge facilities and a passion for accessibility, the Florida Horse Park is helping shape the future of equestrian sport and ag outreach in Marion County and beyond.

Whether you're a rider, a community supporter, or just curious about Ocala’s equine heritage, this episode offers a glimpse into one of the state’s most dynamic and welcoming venues!

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🔗 More info and full event calendar: Visit the Event Calendar
🔗 Discover more about the Florida Horse Park | Visit the Website

🎧 Listen to more episodes: ShowcaseOcala.com/DiscoverOcalaPod
🏡 Presented by Showcase Properties of Central Florida | ShowcaseOcala.com

In this episode of Discover Ocala, host Valerie Dailey is joined by Jacob Dorland, Campus Manager at the College of Central Florida’s Vintage Farm, to highlight the upcoming Marion County Farm City Week, taking place November 15–22, 2025.

Started in 1955 and observed nationwide the week before Thanksgiving, Farm City Week honors the essential partnerships between farmers, consumers, community leaders, and everyone in between. 

Jacob shares how Marion County brings this tradition to life through a full week of community events focused on education, appreciation, and agriculture—with CF’s Vintage Farm playing a central role in connecting students and residents with the land and local food systems.

📅 Highlighted Events Include:

• 🐴 Vintage Farm Field Day
  Monday, Nov. 17 | 2–6 PM – Explore CF’s equine and ag programs with demos, networking, and a farm tour
  
  
• 🌱 Plant Science Research & Education Unit Open House
  Wednesday, Nov. 19 | 9 AM–12 PM – Farm tours, ag exhibits, and kids’ activities in Citra
  
  
• 🎖️ Ag Hall of Fame Banquet
  Thursday, Nov. 20 | 6 PM – Celebrate local ag leaders (sponsorships available)
  
  
• 📸 Photo Contest, Scavenger Hunt, Proclamation & More
  Follow Marion County Farm City Week on Facebook for full details.

Farm City Week isn’t just a celebration—it’s an opportunity to build understanding and gratitude for the people and systems that make our food and communities strong.

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🔗 More info and full event calendar: Visit Marion County Farm City Week on Facebook
🎧 Listen to more episodes: ShowcaseOcala.com/DiscoverOcalaPod
🏡 Presented by Showcase Properties of Central Florida | ShowcaseOcala.com

In this episode of Discover Ocala, host Valerie Dailey is joined by Caitlin Justesen, Livestock Agent with UF/IFAS Extension, Marion County, to discuss the 70th Annual Ocala Graded Bull Sale—a long-standing event that supports Florida’s cattle industry and connects producers across the region.

Caitlin shares how the sale helps improve herd quality, fosters strong community relationships, and ties into the broader mission of UF/IFAS Extension and the Marion County Cattleman's Association: to provide education and support to local ranchers and ag professionals.

Bulls are graded and scored before the sale to help buyers make informed decisions, and the event features bulls from multiple breeds and regions. It’s more than just a sale—it’s a cornerstone of Ocala’s agricultural calendar.

📅 Event Details

70th Annual Ocala Graded Bull Sale
📍 Southeastern Livestock Pavilion
🔍 Grading: Monday, October 13 at 8 AM (open to the public)
💼 Sale: Tuesday, October 14 at 1 PM
🌐 Details: www.OcalaBullSale.com

Whether you’re part of the ag community or just want to learn more about the people and programs shaping Marion County’s rural roots, this episode offers a thoughtful look at a vital tradition.

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🎧 More episodes: ShowcaseOcala.com/DiscoverOcalaPod

🏡 Presented by Showcase Properties of Central Florida | ShowcaseOcala.com