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"Ocala's Hot Topics: Circus Thrills, Water Park Opening, and World Equestrian Center Upgrades!"
"Ocala's Hot Topics: Circus Thrills, Water Park Opening, and World Equestrian Center Upgrades!"
"Ocala's Hot Topics: Circus Thrills, Water Park Opening, and World Equestrian Center Upgrades!"
Ocala Sizzle Podcast: Loomis Bros. Circus, New Water Park, Equestrian Center Updates - Share the Excitement!
Wendell Carr
Jan 30, 2026
Stories, Spots & Sizzle from the Heart of Ocala & The Villages |
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This week, I'll take you on a delicious global journey through Ocala, The Villages, and nearby areas. From French bistros and Brazilian steakhouses to authentic Indian curries, Mediterranean grills, and Latin fusion delights, this episode showcases the international flavors available right here in Central Florida. Whether you're craving comfort, spice, or culinary adventure, you’ll find inspiration for your next dining experience without ever leaving town. |
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Extra Tidbits from Wendell |
La Cuisine French Restaurant (Ocala)What to Expect: Cozy, upscale French dining with duck confit, escargot, and rich sauces. |
Ipanema Brazilian Steak House (Ocala)What to Expect: Rodizio-style grilled meats served tableside with an epic salad bar. |
THE FLAME Indian Kitchen (Ocala)What to Expect: Classic Indian cuisine including curries, tandoori, and biryani dishes. |
The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill (Ocala)What to Expect: Greek staples like gyros, hummus, and kabobs made fresh to order. |
Candelaria Eatery & Cafe (Oxford)What to Expect: Colombian flavors and Latin comfort food with fresh, tropical flair. |
The Secret Kitchen Latin Fusion (Ocala)What to Expect: Inventive Latin fusion with colorful dishes and bold seasonings. |
VKI Japanese Steakhouse (The Villages)What to Expect: Hibachi entertainment with flavorful Japanese grilled dishes. |
Kungfu Chef Asian Restaurant (The Villages)What to Expect: Chinese comfort food done right, from noodles to stir fry and dim sum. |
Impact Island Cafe (Ocala)What to Expect: Caribbean flavors with jerk chicken, island sauces, and bold spice. |
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The Loomis Bros. Circus is coming to Ocala, and it promises to be a thrilling event for the whole family. Read More... |
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A new water park is set to open north of Ocala, featuring a restaurant, dog park, 430 RV sites, 60 cottages, and live entertainment. The park will include amenities for both guests and their furry friends, as well as accommodations for overnight stays. The addition of RV sites and cottages will provide options for visitors looking to extend their stay. Live entertainment will also be a key feature, adding to the overall experience for park-goers. Overall, the new water park aims to offer a variety of activities and amenities for all to enjoy. Read More... |
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The World Equestrian Center has introduced new rooftop dining experiences, increasing their dining options for visitors. Along with this, they have announced further expansion plans, including a luxury pet resort and additional lodging options. These developments aim to enhance the overall experience for guests and provide more amenities to accommodate a wider range of visitors. The addition of the rooftop dining experiences adds a unique and elevated dining option for those enjoying the events and activities at the World Equestrian Center. Read More... |
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30th - Croissant Day 31st - Appreciate Your Social Security Check Day 1st - Change Your Password Day 2nd - Sled Dog Day 3rd - National Missing Persons Day 4th - Liberace Day 5th - Optomist Day |
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📜 February 2, 1963 — Opening of Six Gun Territory (Ocala)
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🌟 Charity Spotlight of the Week: Be the Village For Kids. 🌟
Every child deserves the chance to thrive, not just survive — and that’s the heart of the mission at Be the Village For Kids, a local nonprofit dedicated to supporting children and families in need.
At its core, Be the Village For Kids works to empower children and families by meeting their basic needs and creating opportunities for growth, connection, and joy. Their mission includes providing supportive services like access to food, clothing, educational assistance, and play-based activities — all designed to help children build skills and confidence for today and their future.
One of the standout efforts of the organization is its free hot meal program, delivered from a mobile food truck, so families don’t have to choose between keeping the lights on and sharing a warm meal together. They also run a clothing swap where children’s outgrown clothes can be exchanged or donated to help others in the community — a sustainable way to ensure kids have what they need as they grow. Be the Village For Kids also supports learning and literacy through education assistant services and Storytime events, fostering a love for reading and helping young minds flourish. Their volunteers work with children on academic goals and life skills, while creative programs like gardening and care packages help teach confidence and community values.
This organization truly lives up to its name — it takes a “village” of caring individuals to lift up every child, and Be the Village For Kids invites us all to be part of that village. Whether by donating, volunteering, or sharing resources, your involvement helps make a meaningful difference in the lives of local children and families. |
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