A Golden Opportunity

A Golden Opportunity

by | Oct 17, 2024 | Events, News

Be Seen Making a Difference

There is an amazing groundswell of interest in investing in the future of Marion County by keeping it open and beautiful. Take a peek below at the businesses, non-profits and farms who have aligned with us as Sponsors for this year’s Conservation Summit already. There’s room for more!

The Summit is a golden opportunity to be seen by Horse Farm’s Forever’s members and leaders in the equine and business community. And your sponsorship supports the important conversations about conservation that we must have in Marion County as it continues to grow.

The CEP looks forward to Horse Farms Forever’s Conservation Summit each year. Whether we are hearing about survey results, growth patterns, or from award-winning filmmakers, the Summit is an event not to be missed!

Kevin Sheilley

President and CEO, Ocala Metro CEP

Become a Summit Sponsor

Join the Conversation

We are encouraged by the diversity of our sponsors for this year’s Springs Forever Conservation Summit. Our mission truly has friends in many places. Take a look below at the people and organizations that recognize along with us that our springs and aquifer are a precious resource worth celebrating and preserving. Then, come to the Summit! Our sponsors will be there when the doors open at 4pm, ready to share an inspiring conversation about conservation with you.

A celebration of Marion County’s First Magnitude Springs and the mighty Floridian Aquifer through film, art, music, and science. Featuring filmmaker and composer, Mark Emery; artist Margaret Ross Tolbert; and geologist Jason Gulley.

Thursday, November 14th at Ocala Breeders’ Sales Co.
Doors open at 4pm for poster and print signing/meet and greet
Program is 5-7pm in the auditorium
Tickets are $45 and include light fare and beverages
Seats are filling fast. Please preregister.

Register Today!
Here's a preview from our Keynote Speaker, Mark Emery:

GOLD

kinsman Farm Horse Farms Forever Ocala Marion County
Live Oak Stud Ocala Marion County Florida
Misty Lane Cattle Co.
Niall Brennan Farm Horse Farms Forever Ocala Marion County

The Saint Bernard Foundation

Paul & Ann Kaplan

Matt & Courtney Varney

Bill Kearns

SILVER

Imagine

BRONZE

MARKETING PARTNERS

Become a Summit Sponsor

Conversations About Conservation Summit 2021

Conversations About Conservation Summit 2021

by | Dec 16, 2021 | Events, News, Plan

Photo by Russell Crowder.

Conversations About Conservation 2021 Summit Was A Tremendous Success.

Thanks to everyone who made the time, during Thanksgiving week, to attend the second annual Conservation Summit at the Ocala Breeders’ Sales Company on November 23rd.

Over 400 people attended the event in person and online and the event was supported by over 40 sponsors! Our diverse sponsors ranged from the equine industry to health care and to the construction and development industry. This tremendous level of support is a testament of how important this Conversation about Conservation is for the future of Marion County. The purpose of the Summit was to inspire a community wide Conversation about how to preserve the horse farms and agricultural lands that are fundamental to Marion County’s global brand as the Horse Capital of the World®.

We were so honored to have Dr. John C. Malone, CEO of Liberty Media, as our Keynote Speaker, who shared his passion about land conservation and sustainable forestry and cattle ranching practices. “I’ve always been a conservationist from a sustainability point of view,” he said.

Thank you to George Isaacs, General Manager of Bridlewood Farm, for the heartfelt introduction of Dr. Malone.

Thank you to Kevin T. Sheilley, President & CEO of the Ocala Metro Chamber and Economic Partnership (Ocala CEP) for your candid presentation about Marion County’s booming economy and how to balance growth with preserving open space and farms. You did a great job presenting the Quality of Life Survey results in an engaging manner. (P.S. We knew the answer to the question about protecting the Farmland Preservation Area before we asked the question.) https://ocalacep.com/the-cep/team/

Thank you also to Mark Casse, Canadian and National Hall of Fame Trainer, for presenting the Acorn Conservation Award to Charlotte Weber.

Thank you, most of all, to Charlotte Weber, for your careful stewardship of Live Oak Stud for over 50 years.

And Special Thanks to Ocala Breeders’ Sales Company for donating the sales arena for the Summit.

One of the comments on the feedback survey summarized the key points of the Summit: “Hearing from Kevin Sheilley about the economic impact of the horse industry and that the growth of the horse industry and protection of farmland can work together with other smart growth in the County. Thanks to Horse Farms Forever for bringing the right people together and remaining ever vigilant in protecting our local treasure – farmland. “

We hope you were inspired too and we thank you for all that you do!

We wish you a Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and a Happy New Year!

Speakers

George Isaacs, General Manager of Bridlewood Farm, introduced John Malone, telling us all the story of how the Malones came to own Ocala’s largest Thoroughbred farm, and how the farm has thrived under John and Leslie’s leadership.

Mark Casse presented his friend and colleague, Charlotte Weber, with the Acorn Conservation Award.

Casse also got in some face time with Magic, one of the Gentle Carousel Miniature Therapy Horses.

“Think of these beautiful, iconic horse pastures as our ocean; and the magnificent live oak trees as our coral reefs,” said HFF President, Bernie Little – reminding us all that we are stewards of an environmental gift here in Marion County that is woven tightly to our culture and identity.

“I came here, as many of you did, because it was rural. It was quiet. You could have a nice little place. Now? 10,000 houses going up on this corner, 20,000 on the next. It gives me great concern…help us preserve it,” said Charlotte Weber.

Acorn Conservation Award winner, Charlotte Weber, with HFF President, Bernie Little and Mark Casse.

The beautiful Acorn Award, sculpted in Bronze by Colorado artist, Bryce Pettit.

“The ideas of growth and conservation are not always in conflict,” said Guest speaker Kevin Sheilley, President and CEO of the Ocala Metro CEP. “We really can have it all.”

“Ocala, which has this great heritage in horses and Thoroughbred horses, it’s kind of a unique area when you think about areas that deserve preservation. There aren’t that many places on the planet that are great for raising and training horses. The best ones have deep limestone soils,” said  John Malone, Liberty Media Chairman and owner of Bridlewood Farm.

“It is no coincidence that many of the world’s best horses have ties to Ocala. Our mineral rich soils have produced some of the strongest, best equine athletes in the world,” said Sara Powell Fennessy, HFF Executive Director.

“Beauty alone will not protect our farms. But there are several win-win solutions to protect land – from the Comprehensive Plan to Conservation Easements,” said Busy Shires, HFF Director of Conservation Strategies.

Guests

Katie Reynolds Wentz, Regional Sales Manager, Triple Crown Feed and Bill Vander Brink, Co-Owner of Elite Equestrian Magazine.

Scout – miniature therapy horse extraordinaire!

HFF Founder, Pauline Hartogh

Guests arriving. Over 400 registered to attend.

Thanks to an amazing corps of volunteers, each guest was greeted with a program and directions on where to find an amazing catered lunch by Fresh Green Tomatoes Catering Company.

HFF’s Director of Conservation Strategies, Busy Shires, with Ocala Mayor Kent Guinn, Jorge Garcia-Bangochea with Gentle Carousel Miniature Therapy Horse, Magic, and HFF’s Executive Director, Sara Fennessy.

HFF President Bernie Little and Dean Saunders

Guy Marwick, Executive Director of The Felburn Foundation, his wife Pat, daughter-in-law Elia and his son Matt Marwick.

HFF Volunteer Nancy DiMaggio discusses the FPA Map with a Guest.

Juliet W. Reid, Chester Weber, and Niki Popp Tripodi.

Marion County Commissioner Michelle Stone, Assistant County Administrator Public Works & Growth Services, Tracy Straub, Growth Services Director, Mary Elizabeth Burgess, and Executive Director at Ocala/Marion County Visitors & Convention Bureau, Loretta Shaffer.

Advent Health Foundation’s Executive Director, Jenna Krager, shares a smile with Magic from Gentle Carousel Miniature Therapy Horses.

HFF President Bernie Little with Horse Protection Association of Florida’s new Executive Director, Christine Massinger.

Sponsors

Jorge Garcia-Bengochea and Magic from Gentle Carousel Miniature Therapy Horses.

(L to R) Jim Henningsen, President of College of Central Florida, Christopher Knife College of Central Florida Foundation Executive Director, Joe Johnson, CEO of Advent Health Ocala and guest.

Sam Reid and Gary Hartogh, HFF Founder.

Matt Varney from Ocala Horse Properties with Juliet W. Reid.

Mary Phelps of Markel Equine Insurance and Horses Daily (R) along with Gina Capone of Ocala Florida News (L).

Jacqueline Taylor of Equus TV.

Lonny Powell, CEO of the FTBOA (R), with wife, Karen Powell (L) and daughter, HFF Executive Director, Sara Powell Fennessy (Center).

Staff & Board

HFF President, Bernie Little (R) with wife and HFF Founder, Mary Jane Hunt (L).

Board Vice President, Rob Desino (c), with Founders Jim Cannavino, Matt Varney and Elma Garcia Cannavino, and guest, Luann McElduff.

Executive Director, Sara Powell Fennessy.

Director of Communications, Michelle Grald.

Director of Conservation Strategies, Busy Shires.

Summit Articles and Videos

 

Guest Survey: "What Did You Enjoy Most?"

  • “Especially touching was the spontaneous standing ovation for Charlotte Weber, it was very wonderful to be part of that experience and see her family there with her. The information was fascinating regarding statistics and growth in Marion county. I was amazed to see such a large and diversified crowd in attendance and heard nothing but very positive comments about the entire event either directly or in passing. Excellent job to all!”
  • “My favorite part was the opening speaker (Sara Fennessy’s) ability to address the room. I liked Kevin Sheilley’s presentation and really liked the Acorn Award and thought it was so cool to see Mark Casse in person! He is a celebrity to my family. All of the staff did a great job conducting and participating in the event. A job well done HFF!”
  • “Kevin Sheilley was engaging and such a character. I learned a lot. “
  • “Hearing from the Kevin Sheilley about the economic impact of the horse industry and that the growth of the horse industry and protection of farmland can work together with other smart growth in the County. Thanks to Horse Farms Forever for bringing the right people together and remaining ever vigilant in protecting our local treasure- farmland. “
  • “John Malone is always calm, optimistic and inspiring. George Isaac’s introduction of JM was epic. Kevin Sheilley’s presentation was very informative. He expresses an understanding of the need for urban development as well as preservation. The proof, as they say, will be in the results. Tough job as you can’t please all the people all of the time! Everyone involved made it a great experience.”
  • “This was a well organized event. Thank you for all your hard work. It is certainly appreciated. Having lived in Marion County for about 25 years and watched its growth it is comforting to know that everyone is doing their best to preserve what we love best about it. Long live SLOWCALA.”

Guest Survey: "Ideas For Future Summits"

    • “Keep up the good work! Remind people you are a non-profit and how the operation is structured!”

    • “Testimonials from select farms & breed interests. Drill-down next year on next steps/call to action, updating of issues current & of import at the time.”

    • “What we need to do to assist with conserving our horse farms. “

    • “Transportation and how it relates to conservation. Proposed new Marion County Roads. 75 Interchange North of 27. World Equestrian Center”

    • “More about conservation easements, other alternatives to save the agricultural lands in Marion County”

    • “I would like to know more about any State level protection efforts, laws, programs that are intended to encourage conservation of lands. What can be done by Horse Farms Forever to strengthen those state level efforts, if any exist now? It is wonderful to rely on wealthy and sympathetic land owners but we ultimately need more than that to ensure significant conservation in and outside of Marion County. “

    • “I feel it’s helpful for the people who do not want urban sprawl to understand what plans need to be passed to be able to contain the growth. (i.e., infrastructure such as city water/sewer, etc.). That infrastructure is going to cost money and if it is easier for homes to be built without damaging the environment close together, the need to take over more land will be less.”

    • “Would like to know about volunteer opportunities.”

Thanks to Our Sponsors!

Starting With Our Presenting Sponsor,
Brook Ledge Horse Transportation!

 

Gold 

Cone

Jacqueline B. Mars

Misty Lane Cattle Co.
Niall Brennan Farm Horse Farms Forever Ocala Marion County

Silver

Bronze

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Marketing Partners:

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Always Watching

We work hard to keep you informed, and to represent our members' interests in preserving our horse farms, farmland and the unique character and culture of Marion County's 193,000 acre Farmland Preservation Area.

Join the herd. Every voice matters.

Join Today!
Join or Donate Now
Naturally Healthy Ocala

Naturally Healthy Ocala

by | Nov 15, 2021 | Events, News, Plan, Uncategorized

The great explorer and forest conservation advocate, John Muir, said

“Everybody needs beauty as well as bread, places to play in and pray in, where nature may heal and give strength to body and soul.”

Like Muir, we recognize the instinctive connection between beautiful landscapes and healthy healing.

We are honored to have AdventHealth Ocala as a Charter Member and Gold Sponsor of our Conservation Summit – happening in just a week on November 23. AdventHealth Marketing Manager, Natalie McComb, echoes the sentiments of John Muir as she explains why it is so important for Marion County to have conversations about conservation:

“As healthcare providers, we know that experiencing nature can be a powerful tool in the healing process. Our environment can also greatly impact our health and quality of life. AdventHealth Ocala is excited to support this year’s Horse Farms Forever Conservation Summit.”

Meet Some of our Gold Sponsors

horse-farms-forever-farmland-preservation-area-ocala-marion-county

AdventHealth Ocala

 

At AdventHealth Ocala, uncommon compassion meets unparalleled expertise to help you feel whole in more ways than one. Discover how we put innovation, expertise and research to work for your whole health.

HDG Hotels

With a reputation for success without compromise to integrity, HDG Hotels is looked to as an experienced voice in the hospitality industry for those looking to build, own, and operate hotels. As both a respected developer and preferred management company, HDG’s team employs its core values of teamwork, communication, innovation, leadership and resourcefulness consistently. HDG has an established reputation for living out its vision to “positively impact” and mission of “being brilliant in the basics of hospitality”, all while offering stakeholders exceptional industry experience and results.

de Meric Thoroughbred Stables

For nearly 40 years the de Merics have revolutionized the thoroughbred industry in Ocala/Marion County. 
For the de Merics, de Meric Thoroughbred Sales is a family affair. Their son Tristan and his wife Valerie are successful consigners and live here in Ocala with their children. Ali, their daughter, and her husband Brandon Rice, who also live locally, operate a successful training and breaking business.
 
Nick and Jaqui de Meric are very present in and committed to the equine community here in Ocala/Marion County and know the importance of preserving the character and culture that horses, horse farms, and the horse industry make unique to our area.

Golden Ocala & World Equestrian Center

Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club offers its own unique equestrian amenities and is adjacent to the future World Equestrian Center Ocala. The facility, modeled after the World Equestrian Center (WEC) in Wilmington, Ohio, features:

  • Four climate-controlled indoor arenas
  • Multiple Outdoor Riding Rings
  • Stable Facility for over 2,000 Horses

The World Equestrian Center calendar is your best resource for equestrian events. Experience the quality, class, and distinction of the World Equestrian Center!

The Service Companies

As a leading service provider to the hospitality, gaming, commercial, education, and entertainment industries, we have proven success in creating a healthier and safer environment, streamlining recruiting processes, providing staffing solutions, and eliminating the hassle of managing hard-to-staff shifts for our clients.

 

Learn More About The 2023 Summit
Lunch Menu
Agenda
Welcome New Partners and Friends

Welcome New Partners and Friends

by | Aug 9, 2021 | News

The environment where we work and live is important. Our local businesses, whether they serve the equine industry or not, know that the unique character of Ocala/Marion County expressed in its farmland and open space makes it an appealing place to be. Without it, we are just another Florida boom town. We welcome several new Corporate Members this month, and heartily thank those who have renewed their memberships..

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JP Morgan Chase Bank

Charter – NEW

Chase Bank serves nearly half of U.S. households with a broad range of products. Chase online lets you manage your Chase accounts, view statements, monitor activity, pay bills or transfer funds securely from one central place. To learn more, visit the Banking Education Center.

de Meric Thoroughbred Sales

Founder – RENEWING

de Meric Stables, which also owns and manages adjoining Eclipse Training Center, is set on 240 acres of lush, rolling land in the heart of Florida’s celebrated horse country in Marion county. Rich in both the mineral concentrations in its soil and water and in its traditional role as one of the great Thoroughbred nurseries of the world, this area has produced some of North America’s greatest racehorses. In addition, Eclipse is an accredited training center and offers documented workouts for publication in trade press.

The Equine Chronicle

Founder – RENEWING

The Equine Chronicle is sent out free of charge to every AQHA, APHA, ApHC, NSBA and NRHA judge. It is also distributed FREE of charge at most AQHA, APHA and ApHC horse shows nationwide by over 150 distributors. And with a circulation of over 60,000 copies reaching that count, it’s no wonder The Equine Chronicle is…THE BEST BANG FOR YOUR BUCK!

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Live Oak International

Founder – RENEWING

Entering its 30th year, Live Oak International is the largest international-level combined driving and show jumping tournament in the country, and each year welcomes some of the leading drivers, riders, trainers, coaches and owners from Europe and North America. Don’t miss all the action and celebration on March 3-6, 2022.

 

horse-farms-forever-farmland-preservation-area-ocala-marion-county

Quail Roost Foundation

Patron – NEW

Quail Roost Foundation makes national and international grants in the areas of: All Creatures (Animal Welfare), Education, Emergency Relief, Health, Home Community (Taos County, NM and surrounding areas), Justice, and Sustainability.

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Equus Inn

Leader – NEW

Looking for an Ocala hotel that meets your expectations will no longer be a challenge. The remodeled Equus Inn in Ocala, Florida, is the only Equine Themed, Vintage Boutique Hotel. We’ve reimagined Equus’ 152 rooms to encompass rich equine history, lasting comfort, and modern conveniences. 

Mid Florida Heating & Air

Leader – NEW

You’re in Luck with the Big Orange Truck! Florida’s Leading Heating & Air Company Since 1983.

Next Level Farm

Partner – NEW

Next Level Farm is the premiere equestrian center located in Ocala, Florida. Next Level Farm is adjacent to the HITS showground and offers 78 acres of premium pastures, facilities and privacy in the heart of the equestrian world. 

Showcase Properties of Central Florida

Charter – RENEWING

Whether you’re buying or selling a home, farm, or land, Showcase Properties has the resources you need. They are committed to offering extensive real estate listings for every lifestyle, including luxury homes, country club living, equestrian, waterfront, farms, and more.  Their comprehensive services include listing your property, marketing, staging your home for maximum curb appeal, pricing your property to sell, and guiding you from the contract stage through closing.
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The Wood Stove and Fireplace Center

Partner – NEW

The Wood Stove, Inc. has been dedicated to providing Florida with alternative heating products which combine efficiency, beauty and practicality for over 44 years. We stock many unique hearth and home-related products chosen for quality and style, for both indoor and outdoor.
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Learn More

New to the Herd


We welcome you!

Merry Bain – Friend
Daniel Campos – Friend
Joyce Hart – Friend
Kathryn Koch – Friend
Wendy Lader – Friend

Who Belongs to Horse Farms Forever?

Individuals, farms, businesses from all over Marion County who share an appreciation for our farmland and a desire to preserve our open spaces and beautiful places. Visit our interactive map for a bird’s eye view.

MEMBERS MAP

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Corporate Members Gallery

Corporate Membership

Looking for a way to promote your business throughout the equine community? Becoming a Horse Farms Forever Corporate Member gives you access to our members in Ocala/Marion County and beyond.  Donating to Horse Farms Forever, a registered 501(c)3 with the IRS, reaches our members, friends, and subscribers though our newsletters, social media, advertising, and events.  To learn more or to join please contact our Executive Director,
Sara Fennessy 

Join Now

Always Watching

We work hard to keep you informed, and to represent our members’ interests in preserving our horse farms, farmland and the unique character and culture of Marion County. Join the herd. Every voice matters.

Join or Donate Now