Second volume of Cook columns released

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For many years, veteran journalist David Cook educated and entertained readers through his “The Way It Was” columns in the “Ocala Star-Banner.” It was through these writings that many newcomers came to learn about the community and longtime residents remembered events from the past. The columns included historic photographs to add depth and context to the narrative. 

In 2019, Cook published “The Way It Was: A Trek Through Marion County’s Past,” with some help from his friends at the Historic Ocala Preservation Society (HOPS), who underwrote the publication costs and noted local artist Margaret “Peggy” Watts, whose artwork adorned the cover. The book of his columns quickly sold out. 

Cook died in 2020 and his family followed his notes to select more than 60 columns and photographs to create “The Way It Was: A Trek Through Marion County’s Past, Volume 2.” 

The new book is available at Your Hearts Desire, 1915 E. Silver Springs Blvd.; the Shannon Roth Collection, 22 S. Magnolia Ave.; and HOPS headquarters, 712 SE Fort King St., all in Ocala. The cost is $25. 

HOPS and Watts also provided support and cover art for the second volume. Cook’s family is once again donating proceeds from book sales to HOPS.

Cook began working at the “Star-Banner” in 1953. In 1967, he left the area to serve as associate editor of the “Tallahassee Democrat.” He returned to the “Star-Banner” in 1979. During his years there, he served in positions including executive editor and editorial page editor. He retired in 1997 but continued to write “The Way It Was” columns until 2014.

All of Cook’s columns and their background material have been digitized by the Marion County Clerk of the Court’s office and can be found at www.marioncountyclerk.org/david-cook.

“His work and local knowledge continue to be invaluable reference points for news and personal research,” noted public relations professional Toni James in a news release. 

For more information, contact James at (352) 875-5780 or tonijames@cox.net.