Letter from the Publisher

Now appearing on the global stage

I CAN’T STOP BUT THINK ABOUT HOW FAR WE HAVE COME in such a short time in this community of ours. From a sleepy, rural town with big dreams to a player on the international stage, Ocala has truly grown into an amazing place that 30 years ago would have seemed silly to imagine. In this issue, the glory that is Ocala is well documented and it is with great pride that we are able to document the growth of this area within the pages of this magazine. Think of the new Florida Aquatics Swimming and Training (FAST) facility, which Brad Rogers writes about in this issue. Such a facility would never have been earmarked for the Ocala area even 10 years ago, but here we are with what looks to be one of the premier aquatic centers in the country. This place is drawing attention from internationally elite members of the sport and will bring guests from all over to take part not only in extensive training but competitive events of the highest order.

Why FAST in Ocala? Truth is, the creation of FAST here represents another rider on what is a pretty big wave of momentum regarding Ocala’s significance on the world stage. Before FAST was the World Equestrian Center, which is the premier facility of its kind in the world. The existence and success of WEC is all the proof anyone needs to be sure that this area is ripe for the development of projects that hold national and global significance.

With this momentum, it’s exciting to think about what will come next.

Just over 40 years ago, Ocalans were all excited about the advent of a new mall (see “Looking Back” in this issue) and now we’re talking about local venues that could hold Olympic trials some day.

How far we have come!

We discovered in February, though, that it isn’t just buildings and facilities that are “putting Ocala on the map” – it’s people as well. When three skaters from Ocala all win medals on the world’s biggest stage, it’s time to take note that this is more than a fluke; it’s the result of an area that is coming of age. How many other cities can claim three Olympic medalists at this moment? Most cities would be lucky to have just one!

It’s with the utmost humility that we are able to chronicle the growth of Ocala within the pages of OM, and we recognize what a blessing it is to be a part of this community. We have published our Charity Register for the 18th year and it is proof of the selfless nature of the people in this community. From star athletes to service-minded individuals to generous and community-loving businesses, we enjoy a unique compilation of human talent here and we should never take it for granted.

That talent includes many of the media sponsors that help make this free magazine possible to the people of Ocala, businesses such as Cox Media, HITS and Live Oak International. Thanks to local businesses and the aforementioned partners, we are able to enjoy many blessings of living in Ocala, a place where it seems there is no ceiling on what can be achieved.

Until next month,

F.A.S.T. Live Oak International World Equestrian Center

PHILIP GLASSMAN, PUBLISHER