COMMUNITY NEWS BRIEFS

Reilly Arts Center board chair Angie Lewis receives the check from Turnpike Cup founder Bill Searcy. [Photo courtesy Reilly Arts Center]

Donation to Reilly Arts Center

The Reilly Arts Center has announced that the Country Club of Ocala’s Turnpike Cup Awards raised $15,000 in support of the Reilly’s mission to bring world-class performances, music education and cultural opportunities to Marion County.

The Turnpike Cup has grown from a friendly competition of eight players into a highly organized event with 28 members competing annually in a spirited Ryder Cup-style format. Founded by Bill Searcy, the Turnpike Cup has become a community of players and families who rally together year-round for camaraderie, competition and philanthropy, the news release noted.

“I am so proud of the whole Turnpike Cup Family,” said Searcy in the release. “TPC is all about competition, camaraderie and giving back. This was our seventh season and we have no signs of slowing down. I’m already planning next year’s season and we are heading to The Players Stadium Course at TPC Sawgrass.”

The Turnpike Cup season begins with team selections in February, followed by months of themed events, dinners and competitions. The year culminates in the July tournament and the August Awards Show. Over the years, the group has raised funds for local organizations including The F.A.S.T.E.R. System, the Marion County Sheriff’s Office K-9 Unit and other initiatives.

“It’s impressive the impact this generous group has had on our community since their efforts began. We were honored to be selected as their charitable cause and deeply grateful for their support,” shared Natalie McComb, executive director of the Reilly, in the release.

Arts in Health Ocala Metro receives grant

The National Endowment for the Arts, in partnership with Mid-America Arts Alliance, has announced the 2025 Creative Forces Community Engagement grant recipients, including Arts in Health Ocala Metro.

Forty-eight organizations have been awarded grants totaling more than $886,000. These community-based arts projects aim to address the experiences, challenges and strengths of our military communities, according to the news release.

Arts in Health Ocala Metro is honored to be selected as one of the organizations to receive funding for our program, “Art for Veterans” with the Ocala Vet Center. This grant helps fund weekly art sessions for veterans, active-duty service members and their caregivers. These workshops aim to build social connections, foster creative expression and promote resilience and overall well-being, the release stated.

Curry named chair of planning council

The East Central Florida Regional Planning Council recently voted in Marion County
Commissioner Craig Curry as chair of its executive committee, effective Oct. 1.

The appointment follows Curry’s years of engagement with the council, most recently serving as vice chair.

“The East Central Florida Regional Planning Council delivers impactful programs that strengthen our region and provide vital support to our partners. I look forward to continuing close collaboration with my fellow board members in the year ahead,” Curry said in the release.

Osceola County Commissioner Peggy Choudhry passes the gavel to incoming East Regional Planning Council Chair Craig Curry. [Submitted photo]