Jessi Miller
Ocala Magazine
Jessi Miller is an all-around creative force on a mission to save the world—one graphic design at a time. With more than three decades of experience as a visual communicator, she currently leads the award-winning team at Ocala Magazine and also runs Little Black Mask Media—helping brands, nonprofits, and dreamers tell their stories. Jessi is also the founder of GO52.events, a hyper-local platform that showcases everything happening in and around Ocala. Whether she’s designing a campaign, painting a canvas, or supporting a cause close to her heart, Jessi believes art is the greatest catalyst for change in the world. She’s proud to support the Marion County Literacy Center—because words, like art, can open worlds.
Leonardo Valdivieso-Torres
International Sales Manager for USA Scientific
I am Leonardo Valdivieso-Torres, International Sales Manager for USA Scientific, headquartered in the great city of Ocala, Florida. I am excited to participate in this year’s Kiss the Horse campaign supporting the Marion Literacy Council. My goal this year is to raise $3,500! Coming from a low socioeconomic background and raised by a single parent, this event – and the cause it supports – is dear to my heart. I can personally attest to how every little thing we do to help others at a disadvantage in our community can have a huge impact in the immediate and long-term futures for our families. This is my third year participating in the event and my first as a father of a beautiful daughter!
For Father’s Day, I am asking my friends, family, colleagues, and acquaintances to give the gift of literacy and community outreach with at least a $5 donation (the same cost of a cup of coffee nowadays). Let’s give back and win this competition together!
Dan Eckhard
Owner/President of Straight Line Construction
Dan is the man. He thinks everyone in our community should be able to read and write, earn a GED if they want one, and learn how to speak English if they’d like to.
Rob and Derek Batsel
Attorney and Real Estate Professional
Rob is a lawyer. Derek is a real estate professional. Both men were born here, raised here, and are now raising their own families here. They think learning to read is cool at any age.
