Welcome, Charisse Rivers: Founder Member of Horse Farms Forever

Welcome, Charisse Rivers: Founder Member of Horse Farms Forever

by | Apr 29, 2025 | News

Horse Farms Forever is proud to welcome Charisse Rivers as a Founder Member. As the founder and CEO of Zinnia Wealth Management, Charisse has redefined retirement planning—not as a rigid formula, but as a life-building experience. Her firm takes a comprehensive, personal approach to each client’s financial journey, crafting plans that reflect their values, dreams, and goals. Through her nationally syndicated radio show and podcast, Retirement Coffee Talk, she makes financial wellness approachable and empowering. With guests ranging from country music legend Jason Aldean to NFL quarterback Tim Tebow, she weaves inspiration into every episode.

Charisse’s dedication extends far beyond wealth management. She is also the Chair of the Ocala CEP’s Board, and the founder of The Grilled Cheese Foundation, a heartfelt initiative named in honor of the kindness her family once received. The Foundation funds music, dance, sports, and higher education programs for underserved youth, helping kids discover their passions and build the confidence to chase them.

Charisse embodies what it means to lead with faith, intention, and generosity—this same spirit brought her to Horse Farms Forever.

Why She Joined Horse Farms Forever

“I believe God expects us to be good stewards of the land, not just owners of it. I joined Horse Farms Forever because protecting our farms, our traditions, and our rural beauty is about honoring the past and preserving the heart of what makes this community so special.”

For Charisse, joining Horse Farms Forever is about more than preserving open space—it’s about maintaining identity. She sees horses and farms as vital to the spirit of Marion County: symbols of faith, family, and hard work that unite people and keep them grounded.

The Equine Industry’s Role

Zinnia Wealth Management serves many families whose lives are intricately tied to the equine world. Charisse herself is a horse owner and understands firsthand how deeply the industry shapes Marion County—economically and culturally.

“Our business serves families whose lives and livelihoods are deeply connected to the horse industry. It’s an honor to support the community that makes this place so extraordinary.”

What Makes Marion County Feel Like Home

For Charisse, Marion County offers more than scenic pastures and rolling trails—it’s a place of connection. From horse shows to golf outings to quiet moments outdoors, the region is a backdrop for her values: family, community, and gratitude.

“Whether it’s a horse show, a local event, golfing or just a quiet afternoon outdoors, it’s a place where my family feels at home—grounded by strong values, surrounded by good people.”

We’re honored to welcome Charisse to Horse Farms Forever. With her leadership, heart for community, and unwavering belief in the power of stewardship, she embodies everything our mission stands for.

Live by Design, Not by Default.

Protect – we are always watching. When a threat is identified, we quickly assemble a threat response.
Promote – we are out in the community and on social media, raising awareness and inspiring appreciation for all that we have here in Marion County.
Preserve – we guide and encourage landowners who wish to conserve their land.
Plan – we are working with the County on changes to the Comprehensive Plan that will make conservation easy and financially advantageous for farm owners.
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Planning & Zoning Commission Vacancy

Planning & Zoning Commission Vacancy

by | Apr 22, 2025 | News

You can help plan for future growth in Marion County! If you have expertise in planning, environmental science, or the development industry, then the Planning & Zoning Commission is for you! Applications are due on Friday, May 2 at 4:00 PM.

The P & Z Commission is made up of citizens who volunteer their time to research, review, and make recommendations to the Board of County Commissioners on current and long-range planning. These meetings are an important part of the public process and discussion about growth.

The P&Z Commission holds public hearings on proposed rezonings and makes recommendations to the County Commission on adopting or amending the Comprehensive Plan, Zoning Code, and Land Development Code.

Planning & Zoning Commision (1 Full Member - Unexpired Term 09/2025)

P&Z Commission Responsibilities:

To review & conduct public hearings on proposed rezoning of properties in Marion County & to make recommendations to the county commission in regard to adoption & amendment of the Comprehensive Plan, Zoning Code or Land Development Code elements or portions thereof.

The Local Planning Agency shall be composed of seven members to be appointed by the county commission.

  • The areas of planning, environmental science and the development industry should be considered in appointing members.
  • Applicants should have the ability to address issues relating to evaluation of development impact in diverse areas of the county.
  • All members shall serve a term of four years.
  • No member shall serve more than three consecutive terms.
Fill Out This Application Form

RETURN FORM TO:

MARION COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

601 SE 25th Avenue, Ocala, FL 34471

Or via email to: Commissionadmin@marionfl.org

For questions, call 352-438-2323

The deadline for receiving applications is Friday, May 2, 2025, at 4 p.m. The Marion County Board of County Commissioners plans to appoint members on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, or as soon thereafter as possible.

To be eligible, you must be a qualified voter and resident of Marion County. This is a volunteer position.

Marion County is known around the world for its open pastures, scenic beauty, and rich agricultural heritage—but none of it stays protected by accident. That’s where Horse Farms Forever steps in. We’re hosting a special fundraiser to preserve the places that make Marion County extraordinary—and thanks to a generous friend of Horse Farms Forever, every dollar you give will be matched.

Double the impact. Double the preservation power.👏

Donate Today
Protect – we are always watching. When a threat is identified, we quickly assemble a threat response.
Promote – we are out in the community and on social media, raising awareness and inspiring appreciation for all that we have here in Marion County.
Preserve – we guide and encourage landowners who wish to conserve their land.
Plan – we are working with the County on changes to the Comprehensive Plan that will make conservation easy and financially advantageous for farm owners.
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Signs of Change

Signs of Change

by | Apr 10, 2025 | News

Signs of Protest

Who remembers the “Save It, Don’t Pave It” signs from 2018 that were all over Marion County when the Florida Department of Transportation was proposing a toll road through the Farmland Preservation Area? Those signs did a lot to raise awareness that organized citizens to stop the coastal connector and led to the birth of Horse Farms Forever.

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Signs of Unity

Now you may have noticed that since then those signs have been replaced by Horse Farms Forever signs on fences all over the county. These signs are given to our members who choose to display them on the fences of their farms and businesses. They send an important message from our members to all who live here and to those just passing through:

  • HFF Members care about our horse farms.
  • They want horses and horse farms to continue to characterize Marion County forever.
  • Marion County has a watchdog organization (HFF) to help guide its growth in a direction that protects its open spaces.
  • Our members are proud to be a part of that mission.
  • Our members are numerous!

Much like the “neighborhood watch” signs that you see on our streets for crime prevention, the Horse Farms Forever signs make it clear that farm owners and equestrians all over the county, and particularly in the Farmland Preservation Area, are engaged in the conversation about conservation. These signs signal shared values and commitment to what makes Marion County unique and defines our quality of life. They invite your neighbors to ask questions, which gives you as a member the opportunity to help spread the word about preserving our open spaces and beautiful places in a natural and neighborly way.

If you are a member at the $100 level or more and don’t have a fence sign, we welcome you to request one. A volunteer will reach out to you to set up the installation. The simple statement of a sign on your fence, added in with all the other fence signs out there around the County, sends a strong message without saying a word. We hope you’ll take us up on the offer.

Join us! All members who donate $100 or more can receive a sign to display on your property! Be sure to request a Fence Sign when completing your membership form.

Join Us

Marion County is known around the world for its open pastures, scenic beauty, and rich agricultural heritage—but none of it stays protected by accident. That’s where Horse Farms Forever steps in. We’re hosting a special fundraiser to preserve the places that make Marion County extraordinary—and thanks to a generous friend of Horse Farms Forever, every dollar you give will be matched.

Double the impact. Double the preservation power.👏

Donate Today
Protect – we are always watching. When a threat is identified, we quickly assemble a threat response.
Promote – we are out in the community and on social media, raising awareness and inspiring appreciation for all that we have here in Marion County.
Preserve – we guide and encourage landowners who wish to conserve their land.
Plan – we are working with the County on changes to the Comprehensive Plan that will make conservation easy and financially advantageous for farm owners.
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Join Today!
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Inspiring Behind the Gate Event at Chi University

Inspiring Behind the Gate Event at Chi University

by | Apr 10, 2025 | Events, News

Photo Credit: Elma Garcia-Cannavino

Horse Farms Forever’s Behind the Gate event at the Chi University on April 2nd was a memorable and educational evening to showcase the world-renowned veterinary school.

Over 90 VIP members and community leaders joined us for an exclusive, invitation-only behind-the-scenes look at one of our Founder Members. This year, we were honored to showcase the incredible Chi University.

Chi University was founded in 1998 by Dr. Xie Huisheng, DVM, PhD, with a mission to educate and train veterinarians in acupuncture and integrative medicine. Dr. Xie is considered a “leading authority in animal acupuncture” and has authored more than 26 books. His textbooks are used for training around the world.

Our guests were captivated by the live demonstrations, on three different horses, of acupuncture and other integrative medicine techniques. The presentation by Dr. John Langlois, DVM and Assistant Professor at Chi University, was enlightening. He described the many ailments and conditions that acupuncture can treat in horses, ranging from reproductive issues to lameness, and from non-sweating to colic.

“It was an outstanding event and I was so inspired,” said Elma Garcia-Cannavino, Director and Founder Member of Horse Farms Forever. “I already use acupuncture on my horses, so it was really amazing to finally get to see the acupuncture and eastern medicine clinic right here in our back yard.”

Dr. Lisa Trevisanello, Provost of Chi University, and Dr. Terri Rosado, Assistant Professor at Chi University and the Medical Director of the Chi Animal Hospital, also spoke at the Behind the Gate event.

Over the past 27 years, the Chi University has trained over 11,000 veterinarians from 75 countries worldwide in acupuncture and integrative medicine. Chi University just recently opened a new Integrative Veterinary Hospital on the Chi University campus to provide both holistic and modern veterinary care tailored to meet the needs of both small animals and horses.

Horse Farms Forever would like to thank Dr. Xie Huisheng, DVM, PhD, and his wife Yanru Zhao, VP Finance at Chi University, for allowing Horse Farms Forever and our guests the incredible opportunity to go Behind the Gates at the Chi University.

Thank you also to the Duke Energy Foundation for their generous sponsorship of the Behind the Gate event at Chi University.

Horse Farms Forever was recently awarded a grant from the Duke Energy Foundation to support our educational programs.
 
“I’m just so proud to support what Horse Farms Forever is doing,” said Mike Mangan, Account Executive, Duke Energy Corporation. “At the pace that we are growing, I’m afraid that without Horse Farms Forever, we would see negative impacts to our horse farm community that would be irreversible.”

Horse Farms Forever holds three events every year as part of our core mission of education, awareness, and idea exchange. The Behind the Gate event is meant to be a “behind the gate look” of one of our Founder Members to showcase their business or horse farm, as well as their contributions to the local community and equine industry. Last year, the Behind the Gate event was held at the Florida Thoroughbred Breeders’ and Owners’ Association’s office in Ocala.

Photo Credit: Sean M. Dowie Photography

Dr. John Langlois demonstrates acupuncture on a horse. From L to R: Carl Zalak, III, Marion County Commissioner; Bartow McDonald IV at SVN/McDonald & Company; Laura Drake McDonald; Nicole Hornblower, Owner of Little Creek Farm; Valerie Dailey, Owner and Broker, Showcase Properties; and Samantha Dailey, Broker Associate, Realtor, Showcase Properties.

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Dr. Xie Huisheng, DVM, PhD, and Founder of the Chi University; and Tom James. Director of Executive Engagement, Ocala Metro Chamber and Economic Partnership (Ocala CEP)

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Dr. Xie Huisheng, DVM, PhD, and Founder of the Chi University; Amy Mangan, Executive Director, AdventHealth Ocala Foundation; Mike Mangan, Account Executive, Duke Energy Corporation; Sophie Transou, Sales Assistant at Lugano Diamonds

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Mike Mangan, Account Executive, Duke Energy Corporation; Mary Jane Hunt, Founder Member, Horse Farms Forever; Amy Mangan, Executive Director, AdventHealth Ocala Foundation

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Craig Curry, Marion County Commissioner ; Sara Fennessy, Executive Director, Horse Farms Forever; Billye Mallory, Community Relations Manager at AdventHealth Ocala

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Busy Shires, Director of Conservation, Horse Farms Forever; Charisse Rivers, CEO/Financial Planner, Zinnia Wealth Management and Chair, Ocala CEP Executive Committee; Sadie Cone-Fitzgerald, Owner, Sadie Fitz Events

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Tasha Osbourne, Realtor, Golden Ocala Real Estate; Michael Osbourne, Area Sales Manager at ARK; Katherine Davies Miller, Executive Director of Advancement, University of Florida

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Samantha Dailey, Broker Associate, Realtor, Showcase Properties; Bernie Little, President, Horse Farms Forever, Valerie Dailey, Owner and Broker, Showcase Properties

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Angie Lewis, State Farm Insurance Agent and At Large Member, Ocala CEP Executive Committee; Craig Curry, Marion County Commissioner

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As guests arrived, they were asked to choose a “Dragon Egg” based on the Five Elements. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the Five Elements – Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water – reflect personality traits, emotions, and health tendencies. For example, Wood is confident, adaptive, competitive, natural leader, can be impatient or frustrated. Photo Credit: Sean M. Dowie Photography

Dr. Lisa Trevisanello, Provost of Chi University; Jennifer Fryns, Vice President, Workforce Development and Innovation, College of Central Florida selected a “Fire Element” Dragon Egg. Photo Credit: Sean M. Dowie Photography

Lisa Varner, Sales Manager, North Central Florida Media; Jorge Garcia-Bengochea, Executive Director, Gentle Carousel Miniature Therapy Horses; Lisa selected a “Fire Element” Dragon Egg. Photo Credit: Sean M. Dowie Photography

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Dr. Shu Dai, DVM and Assistant Professor, Chi University demonstrates acupuncture on a horse. L to R: Nancy DiMaggio, Volunteer, Horse Farms Forever; Busy Shires, Director of Conservation, Horse Farms Forever; Tasha Osbourne, Realtor, Golden Ocala Real Estate; Sophie Transou, Sales Assistant at Lugano Diamonds; Lisa Swayze Niemi; Charisse Rivers, CEO/Financial Planner, Zinnia Wealth Management and Chair, Ocala CEP Executive Committee; Bernie Little, President, Horse Farms Forever; Tracy Straub, Assistant County Administrator, Marion County

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Dr. Kaley Seits demonstrates acupuncture on a horse.

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Sarah Huber Myers, Co-Owner Pat Myers Electric; Sara Fennessy, Executive Director, Horse Farms Forever; Busy Shires, Director of Conservation, Horse Farms Forever; Jorge Garcia-Bengochea, Executive Director, Executive Director, Gentle Carousel Miniature Therapy Horses. Photo Credit: Sean M. Dowie Photography

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Photo Credit: Sean M. Dowie Photography

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HFF is Raising the Alarm on SB 1118 That Fast-Tracks Development of Agricultural Lands

HFF is Raising the Alarm on SB 1118 That Fast-Tracks Development of Agricultural Lands

by | Mar 6, 2025 | News, Resolved

Horse Farms Forever, Inc.® is raising the alarm on Senate Bill 1118 filed by Senator Stan McClain that fast-tracks the development of “agricultural enclaves” and “infill residential development” parcels without any oversight from local government.

If this bill passes as written, what does it mean in Marion County? One example would be any parcel that qualifies as an agricultural enclave or infill residential development parcel, as newly defined by the bill, would be exempt from the protections of the Farmland Preservation Area, the comprehensive plan and the land development code, and administratively approved for development without any public hearing.

Senate Bill 1118 defines agricultural enclaves and infill residential developments, then exempts them from all normal development standards mandated by the comprehensive plan, land development code, and public hearing requirements, which are essential guiderails in place to assure local rule and protect the public.

Please read the letter Horse Farms Forever below that was sent to Kathy Bryant, Chairman of the Marion County Commission outlining our concerns.

Read More in the Ocala Gazette Article
Download The Full Letter to Chairmain Bryant Here
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March Membership Roundup & Founder Spotlight

March Membership Roundup & Founder Spotlight

by | Mar 6, 2025 | News

Springing Forward with a Commitment to Preservation

As the days grow longer and with spring around the corner, we’re reminded of the beauty and vitality of Marion County’s Farmland Preservation Area. At Horse Farms Forever, we are embracing the season of renewal with a steadfast commitment to protecting the open spaces and equestrian heritage that define our community.

Each new membership and renewal strengthens our shared mission, ensuring that the land we cherish remains safeguarded for future generations. Whether you’ve been part of our journey for years or are just joining us, your support makes a lasting impact.

As Florida welcomes the fresh energy of spring, we celebrate the growing network of individuals and businesses standing behind preservation. Take a look at our members’ logos and see the community dedicated to keeping Marion County’s farmland forever protected.

Join us in welcoming our newest members and applauding those who have renewed this month. With your support, we continue to move forward—championing conservation, advocating for responsible growth, and preserving the rural character that makes this region so special.

The Ocala Branch of SouthState Bank:

Come visit us at our Ocala branch, located in the Historic District, near Ocala Downtown Square and Silver Springs State Park. As a leading regional bank in the Southeast, we’re committed to helping our customers find their success. With a robust suite of products including checking and savings accounts, mortgages, wealth management, and commercial and small business loans and solutions our bankers are here to help tailor a solution to fit your unique needs. This paired with our convenient ATMs, online banking and mobile app, means you can bank conveniently anytime, anywhere. This is banking at its best. This is banking forward.

Visit Website

UF Health, the medical network of the University of Florida, includes UF Health Shands Hospital in Gainesville, UF Health Jacksonville, and multiple facilities across North Florida. Formerly known as Shands Healthcare, it encompasses UF’s colleges of Dentistry, Medicine, Nursing, Pharmacy, Public Health and Health Professions, and Veterinary Medicine. The network also includes hospitals in Leesburg and The Villages®, UF Health North, and an academic campus in Jacksonville. With primary and specialty care practices throughout Florida and Southeast Georgia, UF Health is committed to exceptional patient care, innovative education, and impactful research.

Visit Website

Country Road Farm

William White

Jone Woerner

Frank Owings

Kenny Annette

Ashley Schulten

Shari Guletz

Shawn Faircloth

Vickie Nitschke

Laura Rutan

John Rooney

Carol Tremblay 

Julia Davies

Debra Stevenson 

Alexis Evanich 

John Crowe

Ron Beschmann

Sarah Almeida Dennis 

Barbara Hudgens

Nancy DiMaggio

Mary Fraysure

Mindy Morrow

Jeff Ulmer

Big News for Farmland Preservation Month!

Spring is just around the corner, and so is Farmland Preservation Month—a time to celebrate, protect, and invest in the future of Marion County’s open spaces. This year, we have something extra special in store!

Next month, we’ll be launching a fundraising initiative to help safeguard the land we cherish. And here’s the exciting part: a generous friend of Horse Farms Forever has stepped up to match all donations—dollar for dollar! That means every contribution will go twice as far in preserving our rural landscape and equestrian heritage.

Stay tuned for more details on how you can get involved. Whether you’re a longtime supporter or new to our mission, this is your chance to make a real impact. Together, we can ensure that Marion County’s land remains protected for generations to come!

Protect – we are always watching. When a threat is identified, we quickly assemble a threat response.
Promote – we are out in the community and on social media, raising awareness and inspiring appreciation for all that we have here in Marion County.
Preserve – we guide and encourage landowners who wish to conserve their land.
Plan – we are working with the County on changes to the Comprehensive Plan that will make conservation easy and financially advantageous for farm owners.
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Questions About Membership and Sponsorship?

Contact Sara Fennessy – Executive Director

859-553-5510

Email Sara