DHS commencement ceremony May 31
The Dunnellon High School Class of 2025 graduation commencement ceremony takes place at 6 p.m. Friday, May 30, at Ocala World Equestrian Center. The baccalaureate will be held at 6 p.m. Thursday, May 22, at River Life Church.
All aboard …
Let’s take a ride on our train into the future. The future memories of our Train Depot that is!
The Greater Dunnellon Historical Society is creating a cookbook filled with recipes submitted by our community. Come, be a passenger on that train and share your cherished recipe with us.
We’re looking for current and former residents, city council members and mayors, past and present, educators, business owners, employees, volunteers, residents of surrounding communities and anyone who loves our small town and Train Depot.
Drop off your recipe at 12061 S. Williams St. Dunnellon; mail your recipe to GDHS, P.O. Box 1836, Dunnellon, FL 34430; or email the recipe to DunnellonDepot@gmail.com.
The deadline for submission is May 31.
To be added to the mailing list to purchase a cookbook, send an email to Dunnellondepot@gmail.com.
To learn more about the Greater Dunnellon Historical Society, visit Dunnellondepot.com.
Find children’s books at library store
Do we have kids books? Why we certainly do.
Stop on in and pick up a few.
From tiny tots to young adults, big picture books and Harry Potter, they all go quickly, so don’t dither and dotter.
We have fairy tales, rhymes and classics as well.
Including ones with great stories to tell.
So come on in and browse for a while.
We’re sure to have something that fits your style.
The Friends of the Dunnellon Library Bookstore is located inside the library behind Publix.
They are open 10 a.m to 4 p.m. Monday-Friday and 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturdays.
Shop First Saturday Village Market
Stroll down Pennsylvania Avenue and Cedar and Walnut Streets to enjoy our market from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. the first Saturday of the month. Find that perfect gift or treasure you can’t live without: handcrafts, home decor, vintage, collectibles and more.
Spaces are available. For more info, call 352-465-8000.
Retired RNs meet May 19
Retired RNs are invited to join the Citrus/Marion Retired Nurses at 11 a.m. Monday, May 19, for the May meeting at Mimi’s Café, 4414 SW College Road, Route 200, Ocala.
Lunch will be off the menu. This will be a planning meeting for 2025-2026. Please bring ideas and suggestions.
For more information, call Judy Herron by May 16 at 352-860-0232 or email her at jlherron2@aol.com
Brick City Brewers meet June 8
Are you looking for a new hobby? Have you ever wanted to brew your own beer, cider, or mead? Join Ocala’s “original” homebrewing club! Members of Brick City Brewers meet monthly to share homebrews, knowledge, and recipes. We also participate in beer festivals throughout the year, partnering with local charities to raise money for worthy causes. And we have a lot of fun doing it!
Why not join us for our next meeting? We’ll be at Hiatus Brewing Company – 6230 SW State Road 200 Unit 5, Ocala – at 4:30 p.m. Sunday, June 8.
Keep Brick City Brewers’ news and events at your fingertips by bookmarking our new website: brickcitybrewers.great-site.net
Free cancer screenings for Marion County veterans
The Vet Resource Center in Ocala is offering free multi-cancer detection tests on site at their location at the Veterans Helping Veterans facility on East Silver Springs Blvd in Ocala.
Based on available funding, Marion County veterans who served in Vietnam and the Gulf Wars with “boots on the ground” are eligible for the screenings. Testing is quick and easy. These tests can help detect more than 50 types of cancer.
Veterans who might be affected are urged to call 352-433-2320 to make a free screening appointment.
Dunnellon Community Thrift Shop needs volunteers
Located at 20359 E. Pennsylvania Ave., the Dunnellon Community Thrift Shop is in need of several reliable, year-round volunteers. We serve the community 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Saturday with an all-volunteer staff of 35-40 people, who each work one four-hour shift a week. It is a great opportunity to make new friends and to be made aware of the many organizations that help make Dunnellon such a pleasant place to live.
The volunteers work in teams of 4-5 people, sorting and pricing the clothing and small household items donated to us and arranging them within the shop. Prices are kept low and there is always something on sale at half price.
All the profits made in the shop are donated on a monthly basis to organizations, clubs and individuals in need of community support.
If you have four spare hours a week and are looking for a meaningful way to contribute to your community, stop by the shop and ask the cashier for an application form.
Ultimate trio class reunion Memorial Day weekend
Calling all alumni from the graduating classes of all three high schools: Hardrock, Booker T. Washington and Dunnellon High. It’s time to reminisce, reconnect, and revel in the nostalgia of our school days. Join us for the Ultimate Class Reunion Memorial Day Weekend in Dunnellon.
Event highlights include: a meet-and-greet, black tie/picnic/worship, live entertainment, and more.
Cost is $100 per person; no refunds.
For more information, email: trio3reunion@gmail.com.
Weekly bingo at St. John
Bingo is every Tuesday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church Parish Hall, at 7525 S. U.S. 41, Dunnellon.
Lots of fun and prizes. Lunch is available for a nominal fee. Everyone has fun until someone yells bingo!
General Francis Stamp Club meets twice monthly
We’re welcoming new members for the new year. If you have any questions about a collection you have acquired, we’ll be happy to assist you.
The General Francis Stamp Club meets from 12:30-2 p.m. on the first and third Wednesdays of the month at the sheriff’s substation at 9048 SW State Road 200.
If you have any questions email elliotn27@aol.com
Hands-on Woodturners meets monthly
Serving West Central Florida, Hands-on Woodturners (HOW) meets at 6:45 p.m. the third Wednesday of the month. Meetings are held at the Lions Club, 72 Civic Circle, Beverly Hills.
Individuals interested in the woodturning craft are welcome to attend. Club meetings include the display of members’ work, woodturning demonstrations, and opportunities that increase the interest and skills of woodturners. Guests are always welcome.
Visit our website: Howturners.com.
Ladies Golf League returns at local club
Golf Central Golf Club in Dunnellon, formerly known as Rainbow’s End Golf Club, has resumed its Ladies Golf League until the end of June 2025. We welcome new members.
This friendly golf league plays nine holes each Wednesday with a 9 a.m. shotgun start.
Prize money is awarded weekly for low gross and net scores as well as birdies and chip-ins.
To sign up or ask questions, contact Karen at 603-748-5435.
Caregiver support group meets at library
The Dunnellon Caregiver Support Group meets at noon on the first and third Thursdays of each month in the Dunnellon Public Library, 20351 Robinson Road.
If you’ve just become a caregiver or are already caregiving, get information and support that are critical to caregivers. If you’ve been a caregiver, please come and share your insights and support. All are welcome.
Call 352-322-0258.
City in need of pension board volunteers
The City of Dunnellon needs civic-minded volunteers to serve on the Fire & Police Pension Board of Trustees. City residence and attendance at quarterly meetings is required.
If you’re interested in volunteering your time, notify the City Clerk at 352-465-8500 or obtain an application at www.dunnellon.org.
Weekly bingo at Dunnellon American Legion
Every Thursday night there is bingo at the American Legion Post 58, 10730 S. U.S. 41, Dunnellon, next to Walmart. Doors open at 2 p.m., food is available for purchase at 4 p.m., and bingo games start at 6 p.m. Bingo cards are sold starting at 4 p.m. Cash only.
American Legion hosts monthly flea market in Dunnellon
American Legion Post 58 in Dunnellon sponsors a flea market the third Saturday of every month. Hours are 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The event is held at the post at 10730 S. U.S. 41, next to Walmart in Dunnellon.
There are indoor AC booths and larger outside spaces. A wide range of new/old, vintage items and collectibles including coins are available.
Ask a Master Gardener
Have a plant or gardening question? The UF/IFAS Marion County Master Gardeners are here to help during monthly appearances at Marion County libraries. A Master Gardener is at the Dunnellon Public Library, 20351 Robinson Road, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. the first Tuesday of each month.
Try chair yoga
Chair yoga for all shapes and sizes is only $3 11 a.m. to noon Tuesdays at the Woman’s Club of Dunnellon at 11756 Cedar St. This is a fun class, come join Linda and the group.
Type 1 diabetes support group meets monthly
Do you have type 1 diabetes? Join our support group! We meet at 6 p.m. on the third Thursday of every month at River Life Church, 2872 W. Dunnellon Road. For all ages and caregivers!
Country Quilters meet weekly
The Dunnellon Country Quilters meet at 12:30 p.m. every Monday at the First Methodist Church of Dunnellon, 21501 W. State Road 40, Dunnellon.
The group makes patriotic quilts for veterans, pillowcases for Shands Children’s Cancer Center, prayer quilts for the First Methodist Church of Dunnellon and quilts for the Romeo Elementary School.
They also have classes for different projects and go on road trips and attend quilt shows.
Every third Monday of each month, they hold their business meeting and show what they’ve made.
All levels of quilters and prospective quilters are welcome to visit. For information, email rrutkowski@bellsouth.net.
TOPS meets weekly
TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) has a wonderful local group that is friendly, supportive, conversational and continuously sharing healthy eating short cuts.
The TOPS group meets weekly on Thursday afternoons. Weigh-in is between 2:30-3 p.m., held in a private room. Only you and the weight recorders see your weight. Our meetings start at 3 p.m. and last an hour. Meetings are held at the Hope Evangelical Lutheran Church, in their meeting hall, at 9425 N. Citrus Springs Blvd. in Citrus Springs. There is a sign as you enter the driveway to the church that points you to exactly where we meet.
You can actually visit two of our meetings for free and decide if it’s something you’d benefit from.
For more information, you could call our TOPS leader, Chris Weider, at 352-465-7861, or our co-leader, Paula Walker, at 239-222-9701.
Ocala Christian Women’s Connection lists luncheons
All luncheons are held from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Country Club of Ocala, 6823 SE 12th Circle. Prepaid reservations of $28 are required. Call Barb at 612-810-0022 or Bonnie at 407-314-8313 for payments and info.
The Connection’s Run For the Roses Luncheon is on May 27. The feature is Horse Fever – Joe Senkovich. Elaine Wright of Plant City is speaking on the topic “Molded by Love. Reservations are due by May 19.
The Connection’s June meeting, How Sweet It Is, is on June 24. The feature is The Honey Couple LLC. Speaker Shirley Solid will talk on the topic, “Closeline Junkie Finds Peace In The Spin Cycle Of Life.” Prepaid reservations are due by June 16.
Check out a farm swap in Dunnellon
Dunnellon Sparr Building and Farm Supply holds a farm swap twice a month from 8 a.m. to noon the first and third Saturdays at 2915 W. Dunnellon Road.
Buy, sell or trade poultry, livestock, anything and everything farm-related.
They are also looking for a food vendor, so if you or somebody you know has a food truck, trailer or food cart and would like to sell at the swaps, contact them at 352-462-6670.
Water and restrooms conveniently located, as well as drinks and snacks. They suggest sellers bring either a canopy or umbrella as there is limited shade.
This is a fairly new farm swap; it was previously the Dunnellon Tractor Supply Co. farm swap.
Restaurant hosts classic car shows
The Front Porch Restaurant & Pie Shop in South Dunnellon hosts a “cruise in” classic car show from 4-7 p.m. the last Wednesday of the month.
Bring your classic car and get a free slice of pie!
The restaurant is at 12039 N. Florida Ave., Dunnellon.
Dunnellon Methodist offers relief services
The Forget Me Not Ministry, sponsored by Dunnellon Methodist, serves Dunnellon and surrounding communities. Caregivers for frail, elderly or Alzheimer’s and ill patients may find relief for a few hours a week.
Caregivers have the hardest job of all, since their care is needed 24 hours a day, leaving them little time for personal time or relief. This ministry will give them a few hours off to run personal errands, shop or just get away for a much-needed emotional break.
Our church volunteers are a very caring and compassionate group who treat everyone with love.
We meet from 1-4 p.m. Tuesday afternoons in the Friendship Hall at the church.
This is a free ministry and is offered to anyone who needs a little relief.
Those interested in applying for Caregiver Relief may either come on Tuesday to check out our ministry at 21501 W. State Road 40 or call the church office at 352-489-4026 and leave a message for Grace Burks.
Marion County Veterans Park launches cross program
Marion County Veterans Memorial Park is launching a cross program to honor service members who’ve passed away. Veterans’ families can now honor deceased loved ones and friends by purchasing a cross with a mounted flag and emblazoned with their name, branch of service and military conflict in which they served.
The crosses will be displayed at the Marion County Veterans Park for a full week before and after Memorial Day and Veterans Day every year in perpetuity.
Crosses can be purchased by calling 352-804-6953.
Visit: marionvetpark.com
Veterans Helping Veterans introduces mobile unit
Veterans Helping Veterans USA announces the addition of a mobile unit (RV) to expand the services offered to veterans in rural areas.
Veterans Helping Veterans USA, in conjunction with the Florida Department of Veterans Affairs, now offers a mobile unit (RV) to provide free social services for needy or homeless veterans in underserved rural areas. Services include basic medical care, financial aid, mental health counseling and other critical services plus delivery of items such as blankets, soap, food and other essentials of everyday living.
Veterans in rural areas of Marion, Levy, Alachua and surrounding counties can take advantage of the mobile unit’s services.
For a full list of our services and to donate, visit: www.vhvusa.org/what-we-do
Blue Star Mothers meet in Ocala
The Ocala Blue Star Mothers meet at 4 p.m. the fourth Tuesday of each month on the second floor of Arena 1 at the World Equestrian Center. For information, call Anne Parker: 843-504-0032. This is an organization for mothers of active duty military and veterans. See our website: https://ocalabluestarmothers.org.
Local chapter of Florida Sewing Sew-ciety
Looking for a friendly, general sewing group to sew clothes, accessories, home/gift items and charity projects? We’re the Ocala Chapter of the Florida Sewing Sew-ciety (FSS), a state-wide organization.
The annual membership is $20. All levels of sewing are welcome.
We meet at 8:30 a.m. on the second Tuesday of the month at 9048 SW State Road 200, Ocala (located at the back of the sheriff’s substation near the entrance to the Oak Run Community).
If you’d like more information, email us at chenry@atlantic.net.
MCSO dementia program
The Marion County Sheriff’s Office offers the Extra Special Person Memory Impaired Program, designed to help provide family and caregiver support and identify persons with Alzheimer’s or dementia in times of an emergency. This program is designed for persons who may be prone to wandering.
This program depends on referrals received from a citizen, family member or health care provider. Persons assigned to the program receive an ESP ID bracelet.
More information on how to enroll can be obtained from the MCSO Crisis Intervention/Victim Advocate Unit: 352-369-6745.
T.E.A.M. Dad boosts confidence, skills in fathering
A new and free program in North Central Florida helps fathers increase their awareness and knowledge about what it takes to be a good father. T.E.A.M. Dad, which stands for Teaching, Empowering, Advocating for and Mentoring men on their fatherhood journey, is inviting fathers, grandfathers or role models involved with a child under the age of 3 or men with a pregnant partner to enroll.
The program provides a dedicated T.E.A.M. Dad support specialist, who is an experienced father and/or who has received extensive training in the “24/7 Dad” curriculum to meet with fathers for a series of sessions.
Sessions are held at a time and place that is convenient for the participant.
Topics for the sessions include the father’s role, discipline, children’s growth, communication, working with mom and co-parenting, and more.
To enroll in the program call Connect at 877-678-WELL or text 352-415-0091, or learn more by visiting EveryBabyDeservesAHealthyStart.org.
T.E.A.M. Dad is overseen by Healthy Start of North Central Florida Coalition and Central Healthy Start Coalition, which are affiliate partners of WellFlorida Council.
Post a comment as anonymous
Report
Watch this discussion.