The Travolta Family - Good Citizens

John Travolta and his family are celebrities, yes, but they have also been very good Marion County citizens. They have given generously of their time and money and have not been seen as "Hollywood" by their neighbors.

All three Travoltas appeared at the Ocala/Marion County of their movie "Old Dogs" and as usual combined this with a charitable event.

I've always been cautious of crediting any celebrity's actions with anything other than self-interest, but John Travolta seems to be out of the ordinary. And it's good to see that some famous people can be just people.

From the moment the Travoltas emerged from their white stretch limo Friday night, their Marion County neighbors showered them with well wishes, hugs and kisses.

And lots and lots of cheers.

In their first public Ocala appearance since the January death of Jett Travolta, John Travolta, Kelly Preston and their daughter Ella Bleu Travolta greeted hundreds of local fans on the red carpet at Regal's Hollywood 16 before the Ocala opening of the trio's new Disney comedy, "Old Dogs."

The night was a fundraiser for five charities but it also served as an emotional community embrace for Marion County's most famous family.

"Kelly, Ella and I want to thank all of you for supporting us over the last year," Travolta told the crowd. "It's meant the world to us. We know that we have a community. We know that we have friends. And we know that we are loved. We appreciate it. Jett appreciates it. We love you, Ocala."

With a voice cracking with emotion, Preston echoed her husband's words, noting, "You guys are all so down to earth, loving and caring." Nine-year-old Ella concluded their remarks with the words "Love you, Ocala."

From the crowd response, the sentiment is mutual.

Thank you---John, Kelly and Ella---for being good citizens who put their money AND time where their mouths are.