Ocala and Marion County offer the perfect place to relax and explore life at your own pace. This is horse country, where rolling green pastures reveal thoroughbred ranches and charming homesteads. The area is surrounded by lush countryside, pristine lakes and springs, and stately oak woodlands. The old blends with the new in this central Florida region. Downtown Ocala offers a historical charm and the surrounding areas feature contemporary and convenient chain stores and restaurants. This is a community where authentic southern hospitality meets the best value.

Worship

The presence of more than 275 churches and three synagogues attest to the importance of religion in the life of Ocala and Marion County. A variety of churches-from modern to historic-work together through the Marion County Ministerial Association. The Ocala community actively supports a number of charitable outreach programs and religious youth activities.

Shopping

Ocala offers something for everyone. Stroll the downtown districts and historic square for a variety of unique stores, antique shops, and interesting boutiques. The Paddock Mall includes major anchor stores like Belk, JC Penney's, Sears and Macy's. The brand new outdoor shopping mall, Market Street at Heathbrook, offers an assortment of stores, including Dillards and Dick's Sporting Goods. If you are looking for fun specialty shopping destinations, the Market of Marion and Mount Dora Antiques are two places to check out. The nearby towns of Belleview and Dunnellon make lovely shopping and sightseeing day trips. For mega-shopping, it's an easy drive to Orlando or over to the coastal regions.

Recreation

This is one of Florida's most naturally scenic areas. The Ocala National Forest offers miles of trails for you to explore. Unspoiled lakes, crystal springs, and gentle rivers mean you can boat, kayak, and fish until your heart's content. This is "Horse Capital of the World" and you can tour an amazing variety of thoroughbred horse farms-or plan a horseback riding outing. This appealing region offers numerous attractions, including Silver Springs Theme Park and Wild Waters Family Water Park. Golfers can choose from a variety of lush championship courses.

Medical

Marion County is renowned for its high-quality hospitals, including Monroe Regional Medical Center, Ocala Regional Medical Center, West Marion Community Hospital, Marion-Citrus Mental Health Center, and Hospice.

Culture / Entertainment

Everyone in the family will find something to do in Ocala and the surrounding areas. Take in a performance at the Weirsdale Opry or the Ocala Civic Theater. Spend a leisurely afternoon at the Appleton Museum of Art or watch a movie at Regal Cinemas. Silver Springs is the perfect place to take a ride on the famous glass-bottom boats. World-class attractions like Disney World, Universal Studios and Kennedy Space Center are a short drive away. For waterside fun, explore New Smyrna Beach, Daytona Beach, Juniper Springs, Crystal River, and Cedar Key.

Transportation

Local air service is provided by Ocala Municipal Airport.  Major airline service is available in Gainesville (41 miles north), Orlando (85 miles south), and Tampa (100 miles southwest).  Taxicabs, rental cars and bus transits are readily available throughout the Ocala area.  Interstate 75 offers four exits to reach Ocala.

Schools

Marion County Schools are excellent and include Saddlewood Elementary School (352-291-4075), Westport Middle School (352-291-4050), and Westport High School (352-291-4000). The Ocala area also offers more than 30 private and parochial elementary, middle, and high schools. Colleges in the area include Central Florida Community College, Webster College, and Webster University.

Utilities

A variety of utility companies serve Fore Ranch, including:

• Cox Cable for television (888-269-9693)
• SECO for electricity (352-237-4107)
• Embarq for telephone (800-339-1811)
• City of Ocala for water (352-629-8411)