February is Adopt a Cat Month. All cat/kitten adoptions for the entire month of February will be $15 and includes spay/neuter, age appropriate vaccines, Felv/Fiv testing, flea control and de-worming. Putnam County tags are an additional $6. All cats/kittens must go home in a carrier. Cardboard carriers are available for a fee of $5.35. All procees go to the care of the homeless animals at the shelter. Information contact the shelter at 386-325-1587.
February 9th
Join K COUNTRY and support the Public Education Foundation of Marion County at a fun "Lover's Lane" bowling tournament at the AMF Ocala Lanes on Silver Springs Blvd. beginning at 5PM. To sign up to play or to help sponsor, call 352-867-0577 x 116.
...through February 10th
A Valentine’s Day worth remembering! Adopt a real Florida manatee for someone special this year. A manatee gift adoption from Save the Manatee Club costs $25 and includes a color photo of the manatee you’ve chosen, a biography, adoption certificate and membership handbook. Or for $35, you also get a plush manatee toy! Manatee adoptions help protect endangered manatees and their aquatic habitat for future generations. Help save a life! Call 1-800-432-JOIN or visit SaveTheManatee.org.
February 10th
Hundreds of students go head-to-head this week during the Big Springs Regional Science Fair taking place Thursday and Friday, February 9-10, 2012 at the Florida National Guard Armory located at 900 SW 20th St. in Ocala from 10AM - 4PM. The event is open to the public on Friday from 11AM - 1PM. This annual event draws students from Levy, Marion, and Sumter Counties, each displaying their own unique science projects. Individual winners from public, private, charter, and home schools advance to this regional level, with several dozen awards handed out in various categories. Regional winners advance to the Florida State Science Fair in Lakeland, April 3-5. High School students selected as the top winners then advance to the International Science Fair in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, May 13-18, 2012. For more information, contact science fair coordinator Jacqua Ballas at 352.236.0588 or Jacqua.Ballas@marion.k12.fl.us.
February 10th
You are invited to attend the 9th Annual CCA Ocala Banquet & Auction to benefit the Ocala Chapter of the Coastal Conservation Association - Florida. It will be from 6-10PM at Circle Square Cultural Center, 8395 SW 80th Street in Ocala. All monies raised will help continue CCA Florida's conservation efforts. Auction and raffle items include exotic trips, Costa Sunglasses, Yamaha Engines, Hell's Bay & Pathfinder boats, fine art, jewelry, top-of-the-line fishing tackle and more! For more info, or to purchase your tickets, call Susan Miller at 352-266-3571.
February 11th
Fresh Vintage is hosting "Girls Just Want to Have Fun" on behalf of the Robert Boissoneault Oncology Institute "Relay for Life" team. 100% of the proceeds will go to The American Cancer Society. Stop by Fresh Vintage at 122 S. Magnolia Ave. Ocala Fl 34471 between 3 and 8PM. Red and pink nail shellac (gel nails) : $15 for both hands and feet. Red and pink hair extensions : $5/extension. Cut and blow dry : $15. Drinks and hors doeuvres will be served, stop by and have some fun, first come first served. For more info call 1-352-620-8054.
February 11th
5k Race to Benefit Covenant Children’s Home of Dunnellon Spruce Creek Preserve, SR 200, Marion County announces an upcoming 5K Race/1 Mile Walk/Kids Fun Run:
WHO: Spruce Creek Preserve Community, SR 200, Marion County
WHAT: Hosting 5K Race/1 Mile Walk/Kids Fun Run
WHEN: Saturday, February 11, 2012
WHERE: Spruce Creek Preserve, SR 200, Marion County
Time: 7:00am Registration, 8:00am Run; 8:30a Walk Cost: Pre-registration $20, Day of Race $25
Register at: www.cchfl.org or www.drcsports.com
Awards: All preregistered runners and walkers are guaranteed a t-shirt and gift bag. Awards will be presented to the top finishers in each age group. All participants in the Kids Fun Run will receive a Participation Medallion.
Why: Help provide funding for operation of the Covenant Children’s Home of Dunnellon, FL.
Race Contact: Dee Winey, 352.861.4502, cbwiney@yahoo.com Spruce Creek Preserve Resident
Children’s Home Contact: Martin Hoffman, Executive Director, cchfl@earthlink.net, phone 352.489.2565, or Ken Habedank, Chairman, BOD, Montana27@aol.com, 352.237.3365, or Kenny Rodrigue, Communications Director, Kenny.rodrigue@secoenergy.com
The Covenant Children’s Home is a non-profit and is approved under IRS Code 501(c)(3) status making all contributions tax deductible.
February 11th
Heading into their third season, the ACR Hunnies, an Alachua and Columbia County, based flat track roller derby team, will be hosting their season opener against the Lakeland Derby Dames,at 7 p.m., on Feb. 11th at the Skating Palace, 357 N.W. Hall of Fame Drive, in Lake City. The doors open at 6:30 p.m.Bout tickets are $5 in advance through BrownPaperTickets.com, the Skating Palace or from an ACR Hunnies skater. Tickets are $8 at the door and children 12 and under are free. Exclusive seats are available on the skating floor for a $2 upgrade at the door.
February 11th
Have A Heart for Companion Animals, Inc. has planned a “For The Love of Animals Gala” It’s a fundraising event featuring The Johnny Mello Show and Adult Magic Demonstrations by “Magic Mark”, Beasley, a high-energy interactive magician.
The show will be held Saturday night February 11th 2012 from 7 p. m. until 10 p. m. in the Silver Springs Shores Community Center, located at 590 Silver Road, Silver Springs Shores.
The Gala will begin with 20 minutes of Adult Magic Demonstrations and continue with Doo Wop, Rock-n-Roll and Country Music selections from the best of by-gone eras. It’s a fast paced round robin sing off of six local singers who will perform 1950’s and 1960’s style music.
Featured performers include: Johnny Mello, Sultry Lady, Doo Wop Momma, David Max Baldwin, Jimbo Killingsworth, Dennis Trimmer and “Magic Mark”
There will be a 50/50 Cash Drawing, Multi Prize Raffles and over 30 instant Door Prize winners. Food will be available but is extra. This is also a “BYOB” event.
The Gala will benefit Have A Heart For Companion Animals, Inc., the Silver Springs Shores Community Center, Feisty Acres Cat Rescue and Zen Doggie Rescue.
Advance tickets can be obtained from Have A Heart for Companion Animals, Inc. ($10 each or two tickets for $15). Ticket holders are asked to bring a bag of dry dog or cat food as a donation for local rescue groups.
For further information, advanced tickets or directions, call John Marinelli at 352-687-1776 or visit www.haveaheart.us.
February 11th
Valentine's Day is just around the corner. The Humane Society will be celebrating with a Bake Sale & Cat Adopt-a-thon on February 11th from 10am to 2pm at their Thrift Store located at 819 S. Moody Road, Palatka. All cat/kitten adoptions will be $15.00 and includes spay/neuter, age appropriate vaccines, Felv/Fiv testing, flea control and de-wormng. Get the purr-fect gift for your sweetie, a cat or kitten. All proceeds go to the care of the homeless animals at the shelter. Information contact 386-325-1587.
February 11th
Belleview High School Band/Guard proudly presents the Diamond Classic Winter Guard & Indoor Percussion Competition. Performing units are coming from all across the state of Florida. Begins at 2PM at 10400 SE 36th Avenue in Belleview. Free parking. $10 admission fee for adults. Children 6 and under enter for free. Concessions on site.
February 14th & 15th
Ocala Civic Theatre announces open auditions for the delightfulcomedy Squabbles on Monday, February 13 and Tuesday, February 14 at 2:00 p.m. This hilarious play pits a father-in-law against a mother in a comedic succession of squabbles. Jerry Sloan is a successful writer of advertising jingles married to an equally successful lawyer, Alice. Living with the happy couple is the not so happy Abe Dreyfus, Alice’s father. Abe is a funny guy to the audience, not so funny to Jerry. The situation is exacerbated when Jerry's mother, Mildred, loses her house in a fire and needs a place to stay. Abe and Mildred can't stand each other. Alice finds out she’s pregnant. This play is one hilarious confrontation after another until the heart-warming finale in which the oldsters discover that it’s never too late to start a new chapter in life.
Actors between the ages of 25 and 70 are invited to audition. No experience is required. Parts are available for four men and three women. PLEASE NOTE: Actors will need to be available between the hours of noon and 4:00 p.m. for rehearsals. Rehearsals begin on Monday, February 20. Performances are scheduled for 2:00 p.m. matinees on Thursday and Friday, March 29, 30, April 5 and 6 and evening performances on Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday, April 1, 2, and 3.
Auditioners do not need to prepare material in advance of the audition. Actors will be asked to audition by doing cold readings from the script. Copies of the script are available at the Theatre and may be checked out with a $10.00 refundable deposit. Newcomers and veterans are welcome to audition.
Auditions will be held at Ocala Civic Theatre, located in the Appleton Cultural Center at 4337 E. Silver Springs Boulevard, Ocala, FL. For additional information, please call the Theatre at (352)236-2274.
February 19th
The ACR Hunnies is hosting an open recruitment night at 5 p.m., on Sunday, Feb. 19, at the Skating Palace for anyone interested in being a skater, referee or volunteer. The Hunnies can teach anyone to skate and play. People interested in playing, volunteering, sponsoring or just wanting to know more about the ACR Hunnies, an Alachua and Columbia County flat-‐track roller derby league, please visit www.acrderby.org, or contact Jennifer Davids, also known as Lethal Dose, at (352) 870-‐6166 or info@acrderby.org.
February 25th
The University of Florida Student Physical Therapy Association Presents: The Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy Charity Golf Tournament. 8:30 am shotgun start Ironwood Golf Course. $75 per player includes lunch, prizes, range balls, greens fees, and cart! The golf tournament will also have a silent auction and raffle with over $2000 worth of donations including Disney and SeaWorld tickets. You can also sign up at: parentprojectmd.org/ufpt_golf Please make checks payable to: Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy and return to: Amanda Sterba: c/o SPTA Department of Physical Therapy, PO Box 100154 Gainesville, FL 32610-0154
March 5th
The City of Gainesville Department of Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs, the designated Local Arts Agency for Alachua County, along with the Gainesville-Alachua County Cultural Affairs Board, has pledged its resources toward making the arts and culture accessible to all citizens, including such special constituencies as persons with disabilities, the elderly, the economically disadvantaged and ethnic minorities. The City of Gainesville has traditionally supported the arts through grants for cultural programs. Through an established process of review and recommendation, the Department of Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs provides technical and financial support to local organizations. Funding is available for 501(c)(3) cultural organizations which contribute to the cultural vitality of the city, and produce quality arts and/or cultural activities. Grants in this category are awarded on an annual basis to encourage long-range planning. Applications are evaluated by the Gainesville-Alachua County Cultural Affairs Board, whose recommendations are forwarded through the annual budget process to the City Commission. Deadline for application submission is Monday, March 5, at 3 p.m. For more information, funding availability, basic eligibility parameters and application form, please visit http://www.gvlculturalaffairs.org/website/services/services.html. For additional information, please contact Linda Demetropoulos at 352-393-8445 or demetropls@cityofgainesville.org.
April 7th
The 4th annual MCPSAT (a trust fund for public safety employees and their families in the event of a catastrophe) golf tournament will be April 7th, 2012 at the Shores Country Club. $65 a player. Hole sponsors are $100 or $125 if you want to be on the t-shirts also. Going to be the best one yet. If you want to play or have any prize or sponsor ideas, contact Dan Clark at 352-369-7137.
...through April 15th
If you worked in 2011 and your household made less than $50,000, United Way of North Central Florida wants to do your taxes for free.
It’s part of a combined effort with the IRS to help low to moderate-income working people keep more of their refund and not pay for income tax services.
"This is money that is owed to the working-class and middle-class citizens of our community," said Debbie Mason, President & CEO of United Way of North Central Florida. "They just need to know about it to take advantage of it."
Many low-income people are owed a significant refund because of the Earned Income Tax Credit, or EITC, a federal income tax credit for low to moderate-income working people.
But the IRS estimates anywhere from 10 to 20 percent of eligible families do not claim the credit, either because they don't realize they are eligible or because their income is so low they believe they don't have to file a tax return.
United Way officials are hoping to find more local residents who are eligible by offering the free service, known as VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance).
"The VITA program is about stabilizing families and keeping the money in the household," Mason said. She emphasized tax clients will get their refund just as quickly as if they visit a paid tax preparer, and will get to keep all of it – no hidden fees or catches. “You earned this money; you should get to keep it all.”
In the 2010 tax year, in Florida, 1.99 million families claimed the EITC, totaling $4.51 billion, an average credit of $2,260 per family. Within Alachua, Bradford, Dixie, Gilchrist, Levy and Union (the United Way of North Central Florida served-area) 29,868 families claimed the EITC for a total of $59.84 million, an average credit of $2,004 per family, according to Internal Revenue Service statistics calculated by The Brookings Institute (2008).
Those who qualify for the EITC could receive a federal credit of up to $5,751 for a family with three children. Eligibility is based on income, marital status and number of children.
This is the third year the United Way and the IRS have partnered to offer free tax returns and filing. For the 2010 tax year, United Way's IRS-trained volunteers prepared 1,279 tax returns, resulting in $1.6 million in refunds for local residents.
United Way of North Central Florida serves six area counties, and are setting up tax prep locations in each of these area. “We will have locations in Alachua, Bradford, Union, Gilchrist, Dixie and Levy counties, offering various dates and times of service,” Mason said. “Residents of these counties should call 2-1-1 to find the nearest location and schedule an appointment.”
Residents can find out more about the program, make an appointment and find out what to bring to the appointment by calling United Way’s 24-hour information line 2-1-1. Information can also be found at www.getyourEITC.com.
United Way of North Central Florida is advancing the common good by creating opportunities for a better life for all by focusing on the three key building blocks of education, income and health. United Way recruits people and organizations that bring the passion, expertise and resources needed to get things done. United Way of North Central Florida serves six counties: Alachua, Bradford, Dixie, Gilchrist, Levy and Union. For more information your local United Way, please visit: www.unitedwayncfl.org.
April 27th
Masterworks Concert tickets may be obtained by Contacting GCO @ 352-336-5448, University Box Office@ 352-392-ARTS or Ticket Master 1-800-927-2770. Latin Fiesta featuring music of Alberto Ginastera, Heitor Villa-Lobos, Silvestre Revueltas, Ástor Piazzolla with guest dancers, George Gershwin’s Cuban Overture, and “A Walk through the Orchestra” at The Center for the Performing Arts.
General Public Service Information
"The Michelle'oGram" is a fund set up by First United Methodist Church in Memory of Michelle Blauser Standridge who lost her life to breast cancer on May 15th, 2009. The fund is for women that can't afford mammograms so that they may be able to do so. She would love for you to consider a donation. First United Methodist Church, 21501 W Highway 40, Dunnellon, Fl 34431 352-489-4026.
AmVets Post #19 in Ft. McCoy is trying to earn enough money to honor the 6 men from Marion County who have given their lives in the war in Iraq with a dedicated monument. Along with Marion County Veterans Services, the Marion County Sheriff's Department, the Ocala Police Department, and the Marion County Fire Department, AmVets Post #19 is trying to raise $10,000 to build a monument in a special place of honor at the Ocala-Marion County Veterans Memorial Park. A special account has been set up at Wachovia Banks for this project. The account is under AmVets Auxiliary Post #19 Fallen Heroes of Marion County Monument Account. Please make a donation and join in this effort to honor the servicement who have given their lives for this country and to the freedom they so truly believed in. For more information, please call Libby at 352-351-8438 or email at rawsonranch2@aol.com
The Florida Museum of Natural History is Florida's state natural history museum, dedicated to understanding, preserving and interpreting biological diversity and cultural heritage. It is located near the intersection of SW 34th Street and Hull Road in the University of Florida Cultural Plaza in Gainesville. Hours are 10AM-5PM Monday through Saturday and 1-5PM on Sundays. Butterfly Rainforest admission is $9.50 for adults ($8 Florida residents) and $5 for children ages 3-12. Prices are subject to change. For more information, including directions and parking, call 352-846-2000.
The Dignity Project desperately needs you unused vehicle! By donating your unwanted car, you can help provide eligible families with reliable transportation for work while also giving at-risk high school students valuable auto-repair training opportunities. A non-profit organization that's been helping the Alachua County community since 1998, The Dignity Project has repaired and given away more than 800 donated vehicles to the working poor. Your donation of your unused vehicle will not only help a deserving family, but you can also get a tax break for your gift. For more information call 352-371-6792.
Are you concerned you may be pregnant and need answers to your questions? A Woman's Answer can provide no-cost pregnancy testing and counseling. A Woman's Answer Medical Center, located at the Parkwood Professional Plaza near Creekside Mall in Gainesville, offers referrals to a variety of community resources with information and options for pregnancy support. For more information, call 352-367-2716.
Levy County Farmers Market & Williston Lions Club... every Saturday, rain or shine, from 8AM-3PM at 401 SE 6th Avenue in Williston. Fresh produce, honey, plants, veggies, crafts and more. The Lions Club has an indoor flea market and concessions and is there to answer your questions about membership. For information or to reserve a space, call 352-486-6229 and leave a message.
West Marion Community Hospital hosts a Leukemia/Lymphoma/Myeloma support group the first Wednesday of each month at 6PM in its medical building community room on the 2nd floor. Family support groups help to serve the needs of patients, family members, friends who are learning to live with these diseases. The group offers a warm and caring atmosphere in which patients and their families come together to identify and share concerns, problems, and positive experiences with the group. For more information, call 800-868-0072.
The Freedom Alliance Scholarship Fund is now available for children of military personnel killed or permanently disabled while defending our nation. To apply, call 1-800-475-6620.
If you, or a family member, have been told that you need a psychiatric medication, call to get a free copy of the booklet called "A Safe Approach to Mental Health Care." Find out what you may not have been told about these medications. The Citizens Commission on Human Rights of Florida is a non-profit watchdog organization that helps to investigate and expose psychiatric abuse. For more information, call 800-782-2878.
If you were involved in an accident and were unconscious, would law enforcement be able to locate your emergency contact person information? The Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles maintains a database (D.A.V.I.D) with information on licensed Florida drivers and those who have a Florida ID card. This data includes a photo of the person, vehicles registered to them, their driving record, etc. A few years ago, it became possible for drivers to add their emergency contact information to the database. In the event of an emergency, law enforcement officers can access this information and contact family members or other loved ones quickly. Over 1 million people have already entered their emergency contact information into D.A.V.I.D. For more information or to add your emergency contact information into the database, go to http://www.flhsmv.gov/. You will need your driver’s license or ID card number to register.
Operation Catnip is a nonprofit organization dedicated to humanely reducing the stray and feral cat population in Alachua County. Stray and Feral cats occupy our porches, backyards, alleys, barns, and neighborhoods. They are the neighborhood cats, the ones without a human address to call home but who seek our kindness anyway. There is a humane solution. Trap-Neuter-Return involves spaying and neutering stray cats and then returning them to their colonies where they are fed and looked after by caretakers. This allows the cats to live out their lives in harmony with their community. The success of Operation Catnip depends on our corps of volunteer veterinarians, students, and cat lovers who work endlessly to improve lives of our community's forgotten felines. To help, call 352-380-0940 or email operationcatnip@vetmed.ufl.edu
Shores Baptist Church at 414 Silver Road in Ocala offers Adult Daycare Monday through Friday from 7:30AM-5:30PM. All day or respite care. Medical monitoring, various activities [[games, arts & crafts]], social activities, musical entertainment, meals & snacks provided. For more information, call 352-680-3676.
Do you live alone and cannot get out due to age or physical disability? Do the days sometime drag along and you wish you had someone to talk to? Catholic Charities Telephone Reassurance Program has volunteers who can check on how you are doing and provide friendship and support. The non-denominational program is free and volunteers are screened. You do not have to be alone. Respite volunteers are also available to spell caregivers a few hours once a week. Call Linda Gardner at 352-372-0294 for details of each program.
Horsesavers Inc. is a volunteer-based humane organization that promotes the proper care and proper nutrition needed to maintain a healthy and happy horse. Their shelter is located in the Florahome area of Putnam County, but they cover the who state of Florida doing cruelty investigations and assisting other animal organizations. They receive no funds from any city, state, or county agencies. Their only support comes from donations. At this time, they are trying to send one of their cruelty investigators to Washington DC to attend a one-day educational class hosted by the USDA about unwanted horses in the US and what can be done for them. If you'd like to help, send your donation to PO Box 380261, Granidin, FL 32138. You can reach them by phone at 386-661-2121 or online at horsesavers@windstream.net
Archer Family Health Care has expanded to a new location and provides affordable, quality health care for children, adults, and families. They help cover the cost of care for families with little or no income and no health insurance. Selected insurance is accepted, including Medicaid and Medicare. Call 352-495-2550 to find out more.
The Alzheimer’s and Memory Disorders support group of Ocala will be meeting the first Monday of every month from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Medical Office Building at West Marion Community Hospital, 4600 SW 46th Court, 2nd floor Community Room. For information please call (352) 401-1453.
Knights of Columbus Breakfast is the first Sunday of each month. $5 donation per person. Lots of good food and coffee. From 8-11AM at their 12228 SE 301 location in Belleview.
SAFE Sanctuary is looking for personnel over the age of 21 to volunteer. Help with feeding the animals, cage cleaning, prepare food, mowing, landscaping, watering gardens, and other small projects. Volunteers are greatly needed and appreciated. Safe Sanctuary is an animal sanctuary located in Anthony, Florida, just 15 miles north of Ocala. They are a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to providing a safe haven for animals. They have a Class 3 License issued by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, which enables them to take in many types of animals: domestic, farm, and exotic, including small primates. The Sanctuary provides a place for animals to live that are in need of a home. Many animals come to them because of unfortunate circumstances - some have been lost or abandoned, or just no longer wanted. They work with a number of state and local organizations, including animal welfare agencies, to make sure that animals they are unable to shelter or place are given a home. They are also contacted by owners when they are unable to maintain the level of care the animals needs, due to relocation, financial, or health reasons. In rare cases, the animal may require special handling by a professional. In most cases, the owners want to make sure that good care is provided to the animal. If the Sanctuary is unable to take in the animal, they will work with the owner to find another facility that is able to help. For more information, or to volunteer, call 352-671-6797.
Are you an honorably discharged veteran? Are you in need of long-term hospital help, but don't think there are any options for you? If you answered yes to both of those questions, you are probably entitled to more benefits than you realize. 49 states and Puerto Rico currently have state-run and funded facilities that provide various types of care at virtually no cost to you. If you or someone you know is in search of assistance, but not sure if you qualify, call toll-free at 1-866-331-1944. This message is brought to you as a public service by the Disabled Veterans Associations.
Have a Heart for Companion Animals will again this year offer their free "Hurricane Protection Guide for Pets." This is an 8-page document full of tips and ways to protect your pets from an impending hurricane. The free guide can be downloaded from the internet by going to http://www.haveaheart.us, or call them for a free copy by mail at 352-687-4070.
Volunteers are needed to deliver Meals on Wheels to frail elderly in Gainesville. Lunchtime meals are delivered Monday-Friday, own transportation needed. Work individually or in pairs. For more information or to volunteer, contact ElderCare of Alachua County at 352-265-9040. Ask for Jeff Lee.
The Guardian Ad Litem Program is in desperate need of volunteers to speak on behalf of 100 children in Marion County that currently do not have a volunteer appointed to their case. Without an extra set of eyes on these children and someone to look out for their best interest, they don't have a chance. With just between two and four hours a month, you can assure that these children have a voice and are being taken care of while they are involved in our Dependency system. Please make a difference in the life of an abused child! It takes very little time and makes a huge difference! For more information, call Gina Johns at 352-369-2525.
This year, 213 million women will learn they have breast cancer, making it the most common cancer among women. Screening and new treatments are allowing more women to beat this disease. For more information on screening and treatment, visit http://www.rtanswers.org.
Studies prove it... volunteering is good for your body and mind. Volunteers are also important members of the Hospice Team and work in many different areas including administration, comfort and support for patients and their families, and in their Thrift Stores. Hospice of Marion County needs you! If you would like to become a volunteer, or if you have any questions, call 352-873-7441.
The Division of Blind Services, Vocational Rehabilitation Program provides a wide range of services to those who are blind or visually impaired with the goal of assisting them to gain, maintain, or advance in employment. Services include career counseling, on-the-job-training, job placement assistance, and more. For more information, call 1-800-443-0908.
Life South Community Blood Centers needs your help to avoid a blood shortage in our community. Blood donors must be at least 17 years old, weigh 110 pounds or more, and show photo identification. For more information, call 888-795-2707.
Florida Blood Centers are in critical need for all blood types. They are also in need of platelet donations. For information call 352-732-0175 or stop by Florida's Blood Center, 1051 SW 1st Ave. in Ocala.
People Assisting Children (P.A.C) are working with local organizations to provide assistance and address the needs of children. They will collect baby wipes, diapers, children's underwear and pajamas for the Domestic Violence Shelter at Mad Dads - The Family Connection office, 210 NW 12th Ave. in Ocala; at Emerald Shores Elementary, 404 Emerald Rd. in Ocala and at the Agency for Persons with Disabilities, 1601 E. Gulf Atlantic Hwy, Wildwood.
Gainesville Pet Rescue is open for adoption on Thursdays 10am-8pm; Friday and Saturdays from 10am-6pm. Stop by their Adoption Center to meet your new pet. It's located at 600 NW 75th St. Ste. C in Gainesville. For information call 352-331-1087.
Parents or guardians in Citrus, Dixie, Gilchrist, Levy and Sumter Counties of a child from birth to 5 years of age--the Early Learning Coalition of the Nature Coast is enrolling eligible children into low-cost, quality early care and education programs. It's a 501-C (3) not for profit corporation. Call 1-877-336-5437 for information.
The Volunteer Center of North Central Florida is encouraging you to give back to the community. Whether it's working with kids or lending a hand outdoors, the Volunteer Center has an opportunity that you will enjoy. For information on how to get involved, e-mail the Volunteer Center at volunteer@gator.net or call 352-378-2552.
American Legion Post 16, 4701 NW 6th St. in Gainesville, has Bingo every Thursday at 7pm. It's located south of the closed Rancher Western Store. Jackpots range from $25 to $250. Parking is free. Smoking and non-smoking seating is provided. For information call 352-372-8802.
The United Way's Marion Volunteer Network invites you to search for available opportunities and sign-up at 1-800-Volunteer.org. It's free for volunteers to find ways they can help their community. For information call Heather at 352-732-9696 ext. 203.
Every Thursday from 7-8:30pm and the first Saturday of every month from 11am-12:30pm there is an informal gathering of adoptive and prospective adoptive parents at the Women's Pregnancy Center, 1701 E. Silver Springs Blvd. in Ocala. For information call Tracy at 351-1294.
The Alachua County Humane Society needs your help. Help save an animal's life by being a foster guardian and giving it a temporary home while it awaits adoption. All you need is room in your heart and home, they'll take care of the rest. Foster guardian orientations are held monthly. Call 373-5855 for information.
Marion County Blood Bank is urging you to give the "gift of life." The Blood Bank is located one block north of Munroe Regional Medical Center on 1st Avenue. Hours of operation are Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 9am-5pm, Tuesday 9am-7pm and Saturday 7am-3pm. You can also donate in Lake County in Lady Lake: C5 La Plaza Grande Blvd. Monday through Thursday from 9am-5pm. For information call 352-750-4088.
Would you like to visit Asia, Europe or South America this year - without leaving home? The ASSE Exchange Student Programs is looking for you! Host a 15-18 year old student in your home for the academic school year! For more information, call 1-800-473-0693.
Visit Gallery Under the Oaks, an artist cooperative under the direction of the Micanopy Community Council for the Arts, Inc. The gallery features the work of Micanopy area artists year round. The Gallery Under the Oaks is open Wednesday through Sunday from 11am-5pm in downtown history Micanopy's Log Cabin. Plan to come and spend the day exploring Florida's oldest inland town. For more information, call 352-466-9229 or visit http://www.micanopyarts.org.
Fresh things are coming to the Downtown Ocala Square! Stop by the new Ocala Farm Market each Saturday morning from 8am to 1:00pm to purchase farm & seafood products, organic and gourmet foods, flowers, botanicals, art and antiques. Now you can check out the unique Downtown shops AND buy something fresh and delicious! Discover the Ocala Farm Market each Saturday morning. Call (352) 426-8244 for more information or to become a vendor. Brought to you by the Downtown Business Alliance and the City of Ocala.
Honor Flight Network is a non-profit organization created solely to honor America’s veterans for all their sacrifices. Now, with over one thousand World War II veterans dying each day, our time to express our thanks to these brave men and women is running out. In Marion County we had approximately 2,500 World War II Veterans when we started the project three years ago. Now we have around 1,000 vets. Each flight costs $70,000. Veterans are not allowed to pay for themselves. Funds come from donations from community businesses and private citizens. Veterans can be sponsored by a group or business. Tax deductible donations can be done online at the www.ocalahonorflight.org site through Pay Pal. Forms for volunteers and others who want to take part in the flight are on the webpage. Checks can be written payable to VFW Florida Department. Please note in the memo line; Ocala Honor Flight. Send the checks to Florida Department of VFW, Attn: Ocala Honor Flight, PO Box1630, Ocala, FL 34478.
Three Rivers Legal Services, Inc. is a local, non-profit corporation providing a wide range of free, civil legal services to low-income, eligible clients in 17 counties throughout North Florida. A broad range of legal services is provided including:
Consumer Issues
Education
Elder Law
Employment Issues
Family Law
Housing
Public Benefits
and the Removal of Barriers to Employment
We also provide one-on-one legal assistance in varied clinics. Our Mission is to provide quality legal services to the poor, abused, disabled and elderly of North Florida and to empower and educate them through preventative legal education.
If you live in one of our service areas which include: Alachua, Baker, Bradford, Union Gilchrist, Levy, Columbia, Taylor, Lafayette, Hamilton, Dixie, Madison, Suwannee, Duval, Clay, St. Johns county, please contact our Legal Helpline at 866-256-8091.
The Humane Society of NE FL in partnership with First Coast No More Homeless Pets Inc. will be operating the Neuter Commuter on selected Wednesday's. Companion cats $32-42. Feral cat package $30. Dogs $42-87. Space is limited please call 386-325-1587 to schedule an appointment for Hollister or East Palatka.
The Humane Society of Northeast Florida, Inc.,has updated their hours at the shelter and the thrift store as follows. The shelter hours located at 112 Norma Street, Hollister are Tuesday through Sunday, 10-4. The thrift store hours located at 819 S. Moody Rd. (Sears Complex) are Monday through Friday 10-5, Saturday 9-5, Sunday 12-5.
Behind bars and barbed wire twelve female inmates of the Lowell Correctional Institute and six dogs from the Marion County Humane Society are getting one of these rare second chances, this one is called Women Offering Obedience and Friendship or WOOF. With the help and support of Patriot Service Dogs, The Marion County Humane Society, and the Lowell Correctional Institute, both inmates and dogs go through an intensive eight week program. They learn discipline and how to love. After the eight week training the dogs and the inmates are certified with the AKC Good Citizenship Certification , this increases adoption rates for dogs and self-esteem of the inmates. Patriot Service Dogs provides the inmates with volunteer canine experts who teach methods of socialization and positive training three days a week as well as the equipment needed to care for the dogs. Patriot Service Dogs offer a variety of paths that could lead the inmates towards a career in the different aspects of dog care. The WOOF Program gives us all the opportunity to believe in second chances. Please contact us at Julie@patriotservicedogs.org and view our website at patriotservicedogs.org for more information.
Attention Marion County: A new online Charities & Social Services Directory is now available to assist charities, churches. doctors offices, hospitals, law enforcement departments, schools and social services agencies in helping those in need. Users can quickly match people's needs with service agencies that can meet those needs. Simply go to http://www.benevolence-support-services.com Bookmark the Web address for quick access.
Violence is NEVER okay. Three Rivers Legal Services, Inc. provides legal services to the survivors of domestic, repeat, sexual, and dating violence. Domestic violence takes many forms among others; it can be physical, mental or sexual conduct that places you in fear of immediate violence. Here at Three Rivers, we represent clients regarding injunctions for Protection or restraining orders and assist with other family law matters including divorce, custody, and temporary relative custody. Safety comes first!
Three Rivers Legal Services, Inc. is a local, non-profit corporation providing a wide range of free, civil legal services to low-income, eligible clients in 17 counties throughout North Florida.
If you live in one of our service area which include: Alachua, Baker, Bradford, Union Gilchrist, Levy, Columbia, Taylor, Lafayette, Hamilton, Dixie, Madison, Suwannee, Duval, Clay, St. Johns county, please contact our Legal Helpline at 866-256-8091.
The Belleview South Marion Chamber of Commerce is hosting a farmers market. It is held weekly on Wednesdays from 9am-2pm. Located at City Hall Park on 441 (next to the Chamber building @ 5301 SE Abshier Blvd. Belleview, Fl.) Quality products that are fresh and affordable will be what’s on the menu at your local Belleview Farmers Market! This market provides a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, organic meats & vegetables, pirogues, local honey and jams, nuts, plants natural items including soap and some fun crafts to the citizens of Belleview and surrounding areas while helping to boost our local economy. Vendor applications are available at the Chamber of Commerce. For more vendor or consumer info please call Mariah Chaffin @ (352)245-2178 or email belleviewchamber@gmail.com
