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"Ocala's Sizzling Podcast: Horse Fever, Olympic Qualifiers, and Flamingo Sculptures oh my!"
"Ocala's Sizzling Podcast: Horse Fever, Olympic Qualifiers, and Flamingo Sculptures oh my!"
"Ocala's Sizzling Podcast: Horse Fever, Olympic Qualifiers, and Flamingo Sculptures oh my!"
Don't miss out on Ocala's latest stories: Horse Fever anniversary, Winter Olympic qualifiers, and a generous flamingo sculpture donation! 🔥
Wendell Carr
Jan 9, 2026
Stories, Spots & Sizzle from the Heart of Ocala |
Meet Our New Host: Wendell Carr |
We’re excited to officially introduce Wendell Carr as the new host of the
Wendell has been part of the Ocala Sizzle story from the very beginning, serving as Executive Producer since the podcast’s inception. With more than fifty years of experience in radio, television, live performance, and storytelling, he brings a deep passion for local voices, engaging conversations, and community-driven content.
Behind the scenes, Wendell has helped shape the tone, format, and direction of the Ocala Sizzle—working closely with our team to spotlight the people, businesses, events, and stories that make Ocala and The Villages such special places to call home. Now, he’s stepping out from behind the microphone to take on the role of host, and we couldn’t be more excited for what’s ahead.
We also want to extend a heartfelt thank you to former host Kevin Davis, who has done an outstanding job serving the Ocala and The Villages community over the past four months. Kevin brought energy, curiosity, and a genuine love for local stories to the show, and we wish him the very best as he moves on to his next career opportunity.
Please join us in welcoming Wendell Carr as the new voice of the Ocala Sizzle—we look forward to continuing to inform, entertain, and celebrate our community together. |
Ocala Sizzle Podcast and Newsletter. |
Hey everyone, it’s Wendell Carr with The Ocala Sizzle Podcast, and this week welcome to the Season Two premiere of The Ocala Sizzle Podcast. In this episode, we kick off the new year by spotlighting Ocala restaurants that are absolutely worth trying in two thousand twenty-six. From cozy winter dining spots to bold flavors and longtime favorites that continue to evolve, this episode celebrates the energy and variety of Ocala’s local food scene. Whether you are a lifelong local, a seasonal resident, or just exploring the area, this episode is your guide to starting the year hungry and inspired. |
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Extra Tidbits from Wendell |
Three Six Bistro (Ocala) What to Expect: Creative, chef-driven dishes with thoughtful presentation and seasonal flair. Vibe: Intimate, polished, and perfect for winter evenings or special occasions. The Sizzle Favorite: A rotating seasonal entrée that highlights local ingredients and bold flavor combinations. Website: https://www.threesixbistro.com |
Mesa de Notte (Ocala) What to Expect: Classic Italian comfort food, rich sauces, and house-made pastas. Vibe: Cozy, candle-lit, and ideal for lingering dinners on cool January nights. The Sizzle Favorite: Traditional pasta dishes paired with a glass of wine and great conversation. Website: https://www.mesaocala.com |
Live Fire Chefs (Ocala) What to Expect: Open-flame cooking with bold, fire-driven flavors and a casual menu. Vibe: Energetic, modern, and just different enough to feel exciting. The Sizzle Favorite: Flame-grilled entrées that bring the heat and the flavor. Website: http://livefirechefs.com |
Graffiti Seafood and More (Ocala) What to Expect: Fresh seafood dishes served in a relaxed, approachable setting. Vibe: Casual, friendly, and perfect for lunch or an easy dinner. The Sizzle Favorite: Seafood plates that feel light, fresh, and satisfying. Website: https://graffitiseafood.com |
District Bar and Kitchen (Ocala) What to Expect: Hearty food, craft drinks, and a downtown dining experience. Vibe: Social, welcoming, and ideal for gathering with friends during winter evenings. The Sizzle Favorite: Comfort-driven menu items paired with a relaxed downtown atmosphere. Website: https://districtbk.com |
Big Man’s Cafe (Ocala) What to Expect: Classic Southern comfort food with generous portions. Vibe: Down-home, welcoming, and proudly local. The Sizzle Favorite: Hot, hearty meals that feel like home on a cool day. Website: https://www.bigmanscafe.net/ Address: 1011 NE 14th Street, Ocala, Florida |
Ipanema Brazilian Steak House (Ocala) What to Expect: All-you-can-enjoy Brazilian-style dining with fire-roasted meats and traditional sides. Vibe: Lively, celebratory, and perfect for special occasions or hosting guests. The Sizzle Favorite: The full churrasco experience for a memorable night out. Website: https://www.ipanemaocala.com |
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Marion Cultural Alliance is celebrating the 25th anniversary of the Horse Fever public art project. The iconic horse statues were created by local artists and placed around Ocala to celebrate the equestrian community. The Alliance plans to hold a series of events throughout the year to commemorate this milestone, including an exhibit featuring original Horse Fever art pieces. The project has helped to promote the arts in Marion County and has become a beloved symbol of the area's unique culture. The Alliance hopes to continue supporting local artists and enriching the community through public art initiatives. Read More... |
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Two women from Ocala have qualified to compete in the Winter Olympics in Italy. They are among a group of athletes who will represent the United States in various events. The two women have been training and competing for years to reach this level of success. They are excited to showcase their skills on the international stage and make their hometown proud. The Winter Olympics provide a platform for athletes to demonstrate their abilities and inspire others to pursue their dreams. Congratulations to these talented women from Ocala on their incredible achievement. Read More... |
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A local artist in Ocala is donating a large flamingo sculpture worth $9,500 to the city. The artist created the sculpture in honor of the Ocala community and hopes it will bring joy to residents and visitors. The sculpture will be placed in Tuscawilla Park where people can enjoy it for years to come. This generous donation showcases the artist's love for Ocala and their desire to give back to the community through their artwork. The flamingo sculpture is a unique and beautiful addition to the city's public art collection. Read More... |
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9th – 🌀 Word Nerd Day – Celebrate all things words and language. 10th –🦸 Peculiar People Day – A holiday for everyone wonderfully weird! 11th – 👣 National Step in a Puddle and Splash Your Friends Day – Embrace childish fun! 12th – 🧹 Clean Off Your Desk Day – Productivity meets odd celebration. 13th – 🦆 National Rubber Ducky Day – Honoring everyone’s favorite bath toy! 14th – 👗 National Dress Up Your Pet Day 15th – 🍓 National Strawberry Ice Cream Day – A chilly treat in the middle of winter. |
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Ocala Historic District Designation — January 12, 1984
On January 12, 1984, the Ocala Historic District was officially added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. This designation recognized the architectural and cultural significance of an area that reflects Ocala’s growth from the late 19th century through the early 20th century, with over 220 historic buildings preserved within its boundaries. |
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🎭 An Intimate Evening of Andrew Lloyd Webber |
🎉 Brick City Anime Festival |
🎤 Neal McCoy Live in Concert |
💃 “Back to the Future” Dance Showcase |
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For Local Service-Based Businesses
Be the Business That Answers FirstIf you run a service business, you can’t always answer the phone. You’re with customers, on the road, or handling jobs — and that’s just part of the work.
The problem is, when calls go unanswered, customers usually don’t leave a message. They call the next business that picks up. First Call Advantage™ helps service-based businesses respond instantly to phone calls and website inquiries, twenty-four hours a day.
With First Call Advantage, your business:
There are no call centers and no long-term contracts — just fewer missed opportunities and more control over your time.
👉 Try it today and give your business the First Call Advantage: |
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Help Our Furry & Feathered Friends in Marion County!
This week, we're shining the spotlight on a cause close to our hearts — animal welfare in Marion County. Through the Give4Marion campaign, dozens of local nonprofits are making a difference for vulnerable pets, rescued wildlife, and neglected farm animals. Whether it’s helping a kitten find a forever home, rehabilitating injured birds, or supporting spay-and-neuter programs, your support fuels life-saving work.
Every donation helps protect the most voiceless members of our community. It's not just about giving money — it's about giving second chances. Want to be a hero to animals? Visit the campaign and find a cause that speaks to you.
👉 Explore Animal Charities on Give4Marion Let’s make Marion County the best place to live — for humans and animals alike. 🐶🐱🦉 |
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