e 11,200 SF A/C building is perfect for workshops or entertainment, with ample parking for trailers and RVs. Enjoy a riding arena, working pens, repit, and swim spa. Between Ocala and e Villages, with easy access to amenities.
Equine-friendly community located close to e Villages with a total of 7 parcels. New construction 3-BR, 2.5-BA home, open oor plan, over 2,100 SF of living space, and a two-car garage. Enjoy all of the conveniences of e Villages, yet in your own country setting.
It is a wonderful opportunity to create your private sanctuary. Deed restrictions include no mobile homes, only a site-built residence, and a minimum of 2,900 square feet. e residence must face the street, and the back must face the lake.
JUST LISTED
$2,490,000 $350,000
Stunning Granddaddy Oaks, perfect for your future home or farm. Relax in a custom-built cabin with beautiful sunset views, located near the Greenway Trails for biking, walking, and horseback riding. is property combines rural peace with urban convenience.
$837,000 $889,500
Discover Bocoy Stables, a premier equestrian facility on 50+/- acres featuring 61 stalls across specialized barns, including a foaling barn with surveillance and state-of-the-art laboratories. Enjoy a main arena with All-Weather GGT footing and a second arena with a viewing gazebo. e stylish residence spans 2,709 sq. ft. with three en suite bedrooms and a beautiful pool area, perfect for entertaining. Additional amenities include two guest homes, a barn apartment, and RV hookups. Just 6 miles from the World Equestrian Center, this property is ideal for equestrian enthusiasts. $7,800,000
10+/- Acres – Lake Ella in Umatilla
50 +/- Acres - Bocoy Stables
5+/- Acres- Horseshoe Bend
18+/- Acres – Close to Greenway & Trails
WORD GIRLS KARIN FABRY-CUSHENBERY KARIN@352PREVIEW.COM
MELISSA PETERSON MELISSA@352PREVIEW.COM SALES SIRENS KATHY JOHNSON KATHY@352PREVIEW.COM ANGIE RAY STOKES ANGIERAY@352PREVIEW.COM
CECILIA SARCO CECILIA@352PREVIEW.COM
3035 SE MARICAMP RD., SUITE 104, UNIT 168, OCALA, FL 34471
*ADVOCATES ANIMAL
FOR 10 YEARS, VOCAL HAS BEEN PROVIDING LOW-COST PET CARE, NUTRITIONAL NEEDS AND SHELTER FOR THOUSANDS OF DOGS AND CATS IN OUR COMMUNITY.
08 | TOP 10 THINGS TO DO IN THE 352 & MORE
A handy guide to get you going and keep you busy this month.
14 | CONCERT SPOTLIGHT
Last-minute tickets and local shows you won’t want to miss.
16 | THE STARTING LINE
February is chock-full of motorsports action.
18 | CELEBRATE WITH OCT
Devoted patrons of Ocala Civic Theatre were recently invited to an intimate holiday-themed gathering to be the rst to get a glimpse of OCT’s shining future.
20 | A NIGHT TO REMEMBER
Saxophonist Eirinn Abu takes the stage at Circle Square Cultural Center.
22 | HANDS-ON HISTORY
Experience ancient Florida at Silver River Knap-In and Prehistoric Arts Festival.
24 | ALL ABOUT AG
From strawberries and livestock shows to visiting the state fair, February is the perfect time to talk about Florida’s agriculture industry.
26 | ANCIENT ART
Ocala Calligraphy Guild celebrates elegant link to history.
EMERGING FROM ITS SMALL START IN 1904, TODAY’S FLORIDA STATE FAIR WELCOMES MORE THAN 500,000 GUESTS EACH YEAR, OFFERS THE LARGEST MIDWAY IN NORTH AMERICA WITH MORE THAN 90 RIDES AND AWARDS MORE THAN $1 MILLION TO EXHIBITORS AND COMPETITORS.
36 | RICH IN HISTORY, BURSTING WITH FLAVOR
St. Augustine Experiences o ers a variety of fun foodie tours.
38 | BITE-SIZED BITS
Restaurant news and foodie fun to keep your palate up to date.
TOP TEN 02.25
ONE
BLACK HISTORY MONTH WITH
MASTER THE POSSIBILITIES
FEBRUARY 5,12 & 19
On February 5 and 12 attend Black History Month Conversations with retired U.S. Army Colonel and instructor Gorham L. Black, III. This free “learn and grow” conversation will take place at Cypress Hall at On Top of the World from 3:30-5pm and will o er informed historical and personal experiences of black history. On February 19, Jennifer Moore-Ambrosia will speak on The Ship Called The Clotilda from 4-5:30pm at Live Oak Hall. The event is $10 for members and $15 for the public. Ambrosia will use archival and archeological evidence to tell the story of the last slave ship in America. Register at masterthepossibilities.org.
2 DADDY LONG LEGS
FEBRUARY 6-23
Based on a 1955 Fred Astaire lm, this touching two-person musical tells the story of Jerusha Abbot, the self-proclaimed oldest orphan in the orphanage. Her luck changes when an unknown benefactor, impressed by an essay Jerusha writes, wishes to pay for her schooling to become a writer. To receive the gift, she must agree to write letters to her benefactor, who she assumes must be old. Once at school she meets a goodlooking young man, Jervis Pendleton. Unbeknownst to her, he is her benefactor. As their relationship develops and feelings grow, Jervis must decide whether to come forward or remain anonymous. Showtimes are Thursdays and Fridays at 7:30pm and Sundays at 2pm. To purchase tickets, visit ocalacivictheatre.com or call the box o ce at (352) 236-2274.
STORYTIME WITH THE MAYOR
The City of Belleview has partnered with SouthState Bank to bring families together for a free evening of food, literacy and camaraderie. Mayor Christine Dobkowski will share a specially chosen book with youngsters and their families at 5pm on the rst Tuesday of each month at the Belleview Community Center. The event will include a light dinner along with surprise visits from book characters, themed activities and games related to the book’s message and characters. Thanks to Goodwill Books, each child will take home a free book to promote a love of reading. For details, visit belleview .org or follow the City of Belleview on social media.
*
3 FIRST TUESDAY OF EACH MONTH
A HANDY GUIDE TO GET YOU GOING AND KEEP YOU BUSY THIS MONTH
5
ULTIMATE VEGAS VARIETY SHOW
FEBRUARY 17-18
4
ALL FOR THE HORSES EXPO
This all-equine industry tradeshow will be held in Expo Center 1 at the World Equestrian Center. Top equestrian and lifestyle brands across a range of sport disciplines, along with a complete schedule of activities, will take place throughout the weekend. General admission and parking are free for all attendees. This expo will be held during the 2025 Winter Spectacular Show Series, which sees thousands of horses and riders come to WEC representing hunter, jumper and equitation disciplines. Vendors will include all things horse, such as jewelry, barn builders, horse treats, equine tack, furniture, clothing and more. For more, visit worldequestriancenter.com.
Head to the Ocala Golf Club to check out Vegas’ top impersonators all in one place. You’ll experience the looks and sounds of Elton John, Neil Diamond, Whitney Houston, Olivia Newton John and more with live vocals and energetic performances all done by Anthony and Eddie Edwards. The Boston Globe and USA Today call it a “must see show.” Show times are 7pm on February 17 and 2pm February 18. eventbrite.com
6
CHILDREN’S CHARITY CLASSIC
FEBRUARY 21
This unique event bene ts local children’s charities and will feature riders and horses adorned in costumes that represent their favorite child’s book character. The event will take place at HITS Post Time Farm, and the gates will open at 4:30pm. The action begins at 6pm. The event itself is free to attend, but parking is $10 per vehicle. Register your ticket at uwmc.org
7
VOCAL FURBALL: TAILS & TEAL
FEBRUARY 21
The 9th annual VOCAL Furball will take place at the World Equestrian Center and bene ts the animals of Voices of Change Animal League. This black-tie optional (teal is encouraged to coincide with the Tails & Teal theme) evening will include a cocktail hour with hors d’oeuvres, a three-course dinner, auctions and more. The event will run from 6-10pm and tickets are $150. Visit vocalforpets.org for details.
2025 NORTH FLORIDA OUTDOOR EXPO
FEBRUARY 22
8
UF/IFAS presents this outdoor expo, a fun, family event for outdoor enthusiasts. Expect vendors showcasing all things outdoors, natural resource education, guided nature walks, and entertainment and activities for young and old alike. The event will take place at the Cuscowilla Nature and Retreat Center in Micanopy from 9am-3pm. Tickets are available on eventbrite.com.
9
BOOT SCOOTIN’ BOOGIE: KIDS CENTRAL CASINO NIGHT
FEBRUARY 23
This evening of country music and casino fun will bene t Kids Central, Inc. The night will include blackjack roulette, slot-style casino games, craps and a Texas Hold’em tournament. Food and refreshments are included in your ticket price, and the event runs from 7-10pm at the Ocala Downtown Market. Visit kidscentralinc.org for tickets and details.
10
HITS OCALA TOURNAMENT VII
FEBRUARY 25-MARCH 2
HITS Ocala Winter season features 13 weeks of USEF-rated competition. Highlights include weekly Grand Prix and Hunter Derbies and Junior/Amateur Hunter and Jumper Classics. Competitions take place at HITS Post Time Farm, and times and prices vary. The Winter Finals VIII will take place March 4-9. Download the complete schedule of events at hitsshows.com
& MORE 02.25
APPLETON MUSEUM OF ART CLASSES VARIOUS DATES
The Appleton Museum of Art o ers a variety of art classes, programs and workshops for all ages and skill levels this winter and spring. Adults can explore clay, portrait drawing, printmaking, sculpture and more. Youngsters ages 2-5 will enjoy the Museum & Me program, and those ages 5-7 can take place in Art Adventures. appletonmuseum.org
*FRAMING TOKYO EXHIBIT THROUGH JUNE 8
Now on display at the Appleton Museum of Art, Framing Tokyo features 30 black-and-white and color photographs by Venezuelanborn Joel Bustamante. While getting his degree in architectural photography from Tokyo-based Nihon University, he created a photo exposé of the amazing modern architecture in Japan from the 1970s-1980s, capped by the 1985 one-of-a kind structures erected for the World’s Fair in Tsukuba Science City. The Appleton is open TuesdaySaturday, 10am-5pm and Sunday, noon-5pm. appletonmuseum.org
KENYA’S KIDS EXHIBIT THROUGH MAY 10
Families are invited to embark on an exciting cultural adventure at the Discovery Center’s newest exhibit, Kenya’s Kids. Running through May 10, this immersive experience
provides a window into the daily lives of children in Kenya, a country where modern advancements blend seamlessly with rich traditions. Through ve engaging, hands-on environments, visitors of all ages can explore and compare the similarities and di erences between their lives and those of children in East Africa. The Discovery Center is open Tuesdays-Saturdays from 10am-4pm. mydiscoverycenter.org
WONDER, WHIMSY, AND WILD THROUGH FEBRUARY 28
This year the Ocala Art Group celebrates its 75th anniversary with a unique exhibit by Tyrus Clutter. The exhibition will include major genres of ne arts, including photos, 3-D works and paintings at the Chelsea Art Center between 11am-3pm. ocalaartgroup.org
5TH ANNUAL LOVE OF THE HORSE 5K
FEBRUARY 1
Love of a Horse Ocala 5K bene ts the Foundation for the Horse, a group with over 25 years dedicated to improving the welfare of horses through education and research. The event takes place through one of northwest Marion County’s equestrian communities beginning at 8am. The starting point is The Equine Medical Center of Ocala, 7107 West Highway 326, Ocala. Online registration is $40. Race-day registration is $45. loveofthehorse5k.itsyourrace.com
FREE FIRST SATURDAY FEBRUARY 1
Visit the Appleton Museum of Art for Free First Saturday. Admission to the museum is free from 10am-5pm. Explore the permanent collection and special exhibitions, and enjoy family-friendly artmaking activities in the Artspace. At 11am and 2pm see a screening of the 2017 documentary Boom for Real: The Late Teenage Years of Jean-Michel Basquiat (PG).
Never-before-seen works, writings and photographs o er insight into the life of Jean-Michel Basquiat as a teenager in New York in the late 1970s. Screenings are free; no reservations needed to attend. The Nan & Tam Bun on the Run food truck will be onsite throughout the day. appletonmuseum.org
BRICK CITY
BLUEGRASS
FESTIVAL
FEBRUARY 1
Get ready to tap your toes and clap your hands because the Brick City Bluegrass Festival is back for its second year. The event takes place from 1-7pm at Citizens’ Circle in downtown Ocala and features live performances by top bluegrass artists. The event will also include food trucks o ering a variety of delicious cuisines and beer and wine sales for those who wish to indulge. Bring your own chairs. Save $5 by purchasing your ticket in advance. Veterans and children aged 8 and under receive free admission to the festival. ocala .gov/brickcitybluegrass
GRANDVIEW WORLD NIGHTS
FEBRUARY 5-8
This annual event features Clydesdales, Belgians and Percherons, the most popular draft horse breeds. These giant creatures will perform in a synchronized fashion to instrumental music providing an auditory experience like none other. Arena ve opens at 12pm, and the competition begins at 2pm. Parking is free. Ticket prices vary, and tickets can be purchased on eventbrite.com worldequestriancenter.com
FIRST FRIDAY ART WALK
FEBRUARY 7
First Friday Art Walk occurs on the rst Friday of every month, September to the following May, from 6-9 pm at the Ocala downtown square. Event festivities include
over 40 artist displays, monthly live entertainment, free family art activities provided by local arts organizations and extended shopping hours. ocala .gov/artwalk
AFTER DARK MOVIE IN THE PARK
FEBRUARY 7
Enjoy this family-friendly showing of Princess and the Frog at Tuscawilla Park. Showtime is 7-9:30pm. Bring a blanket or chair to enjoy this free event. ocala .gov/recpcark
2025 FATHER DAUGHTER DANCE BY AMBLESIDE SCHOOL
FEBRUARY 7-8
Girls ages 18 and under are invited to attend this annual Father-Daughter dance with their father or father gure. Snacks and refreshments are included in the ticket price, and the dance will take place in Expo Center 1 at the World Equestrian Center. The dance will begin at 6pm Friday and 5pm Saturday. marioncountyfatherdaughterdance.my.canva.site
SPEAKER JADA WRIGHT-GREENE
FEBRUARY 8
Join Wright-Greene to explore images and stories of Florida’s Black and African-American homes. She will share details on Mary McLeod Bethune, A.L. Lewis and D.A. Dorsey, among others at the Ocala Public Library headquarters at 11am. friendsoftheocalalibrary.org
TEA IN THE FORT:
SIPPING INTO SPRING FEBRUARY 8
Enjoy artisanal teas, fresh crumpets and friendly company during this intimate event designed for socializing. Dressing up is encouraged but not required. 1011am is reserved for ages 18 and up, and 2-3pm is open to all ages. Cost is $20 per person. fortkingocala.com
OCALA VINTAGE THRIFT MARKET FEBRUARY 9
Thrift and love are in the air! Head
Photo courtesy of the Appleton Museum of Art
to the Ocala Downtown Market from 11am-3pm for another amazing Vintage Thrift Market. Featuring over 60 vendors selling the very best in vintage and thrifting items, including clothing, antiques, vendor toys, and antique furniture, the event will also have live entertainment and food trucks. Find the event on Facebook for details.
REILLY ARTS CENTER FUNDRAISING GALA
FEBRUARY 13
This black-tie-optional fundraiser will include a delicious dinner and drinks. The evening will also include live entertainment and a celebration of the arts in our community. Tickets are $150 per person, and the event begins at 6pm. reillyartscenter.com
ART OUTSIDE THE LINES BRUNCH
FEBRUARY 15
As part of the Tuscawilla Art Park Series, enjoy brunch on the Magnolia Art Xchange platform from 9am-noon. Live music, signature drinks, an artist panel discussing Ocala’s art scene and more will be included. Brunch only is $30; brunch plus an Art Bus Tour is $35. ocala .gov/artpark
FORGE YOUR LOVE
FEBRUARY 15
Learn how to shape hot metal into useful utensils during this blacksmithing class. All skill levels are welcome, and guests will learn how to create spoons, forks and knives and then take home their creations. Open to ages 18 and up, this event is $20 per person. fortkingocala.com
3RD ANNUAL GALENTINE’S NIGHT OUT
FEBRUARY 15
Ocala’s OG Girls Night Out event is back with all the posh coquette vibes, hosted by Lane & Poe, in downtown Ocala. This year’s event takes place from 6-9pm at the Ocala
Downtown Market. With over 60 locally owned vendors participating, this event is a fantastic opportunity to support local businesses while indulging in an evening of fun and friendship. Satisfy your cravings with a variety of mouthwatering treats from the incredible food trucks, and capture the evening with the free photo booth. Find the event on Facebook for details.
DOGGONE GOOD READING
FEBRUARY 15
Children grades rst through fth are invited to come read to a Humane Society of Marion County dog at 11am and 1pm. Class is for one hour and starts promptly. A parent/guardian must accompany the child and stay at the shelter (in a separate area) while the child reads. Register in advance at thehsmc.org/doggone-goodreading-program.
SILVER RIVER KNAP-IN AND PREHISTORIC ARTS FESTIVAL
FEBRUARY 15-16
Artisans from across the country will demonstrate historical techniques like shell carving, re making, hide tanning and much more. Take part in hands-on activities, and shop on-site vendors. 9am-4pm each day, $10 per person, and children under 5 are free. silverrivermuseum.com
$300,000 LONGINES FEI JUMPING WORLD CUP
FEBRUARY 15
This prestigious event will bring world- and Olympic-level talent to the World Equestrian Center for a night of ve-star competition in the Grand Arena. Prior to this event, on February 11-15, the venue will host the nal qualifying event of the 24/25 season before the FEI Jumping World Cup in Switzerland in April. General admission, entry only, is $15 per person and reserved stadium seating is $65 per person. worldequestriancenter.com
MICHAEL MALLARD: RECENT WORKS
FEBRUARY 17-MARCH 12
The College of Central Florida’s Webber Center will feature colorful works of art by Michael Mallard. His works, which blend everyday objects and symbolic imagery, highlight the subtleties of Southern life. The community is invited to attend the exhibit closing on March 12 at 12:30pm. The gallery is open Monday through Thursday from 10am-4pm, and admission is free. cf.edu/webber
GNO – GIRLS NETWORKING OPPORTUNITY
FEBRUARY 20
This event is intended for femaleowned small business owners. The evening takes place from 5:30-7:30pm at Midtown Station in downtown Ocala. Tickets are $35 per person and includes a ra e for a free vendor space at a future event, a ra e ticket for the merch basket, a GNO gift, a catered appetizer box and a drink ticket for one beer from In nite Ale Works (can upgrade to a mixed drink at the bar). theimprintduo.com/ products/gno-networking-ticket
LOVELAND, PRESENTED BY DANCE ALIVE NATIONAL BALLET
FEBRUARY 20
Sonnets, a sweet and vibrant work, is inspired by the beautiful Sonnets from the Portuguese, a romantic set of poetry of which the most famous begins “How do I love thee, Let me count the ways.” A classical
pas de deux, bravura ballet at its nest, and every balletomane’s dream, follows. The dancers will then mesmerize you with ‘Hallelujah’ before jumping feet rst into Someone to Love, a new ballet by Artistic Director Kim Tuttle. Ranging from music of the ‘40s to now, the program is comic, poignant, jazzy, romantic and classical. The event takes place at the Reilly Arts Center at 7pm. Tickets start at $10. reillyartscenter.com
EATONVILLE HERITAGE TOUR
FEBRUARY 20
Ages 18 and up can explore the Zora Neale Hurston Museum and other historical sites on this unique trip. Enjoy lunch on your own at a historic soul restaurant. The tour leaves from the Eighth Avenue Adult Activity Center and lasts from 8am-5pm. Tour cost is $45. ocala .gov/recpark
BINGO HAPPY HOUR
FEBRUARY 21
The Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place will host this night of music, refreshments, fun and Bingo for ages 18 and up. Bring $2 in quarters, nickels and dimes to play. Ten games will be played between 5-7pm, and there will be two jackpots. ocala .gov/recpark
SWAMP FEST 17
FEBRUARY 22
Celebrate Swamp Head Brewery’s 17th anniversary with great beer, live music, giveaways, event merchandise, food trucks and camaraderie. The event will run from 12-11pm. The brewery is located at 3650 SW 42nd Avenue. swamphead.com
PAWS ICE CREAM SOCIAL
FEBRUARY 22
This fun event takes place at the Letty Towles Dog Park from 10am-noon. The event is free. ocala .gov/recpark
BIRDS OF A FEATHER LUNCHEON FEBRUARY 25
The Ocala Christian Women’s Connection will host this lunch from 11:30am-1:30pm at the Country Club of Ocala with guest speaker Cassidy Novak who will talk on “Crisis Reveals the Cracks… Right When You Have Your Ducks in a Row.” Prepaid reservations are required and are $28. Payment must be received by February 17. Mail payment to OCWC at PO Box 773102 Ocala, FL 34477 or call (612) 810-0022 or (407) 314-8313.
BALLET MAGNIFICAT!’S “DELIVER US!”
FEBRUARY 27
Experience the powerful story of Deliver Us! by Ballet Magni cat!, set to the stirring music of The Prince of Egypt. Witness Moses’
journey to lead his people to freedom—a vivid picture of courage, faith, and redemption. Performed worldwide since 2001, this captivating ballet will inspire and challenge you. The event takes place at the Reilly Arts Center at 7pm. Tickets start at $15. reillyartscenter.com
DATE NIGHT AT THE DISCOVERY CENTER
FEBRUARY 28
Enjoy light appetizers, hands-on exhibits, science experiments and kid-free fun between 6-8:30pm. The event, themed Love Reactions, is open to ages 18 and up and costs $30 per couple. mydiscoverycenter.org
DUELING PIANOS UNCENSORED
FEBRUARY 28
Experience an electrifying night
of musical mayhem at the Reilly Arts Center with the new late-night dueling pianos show. Unleash your wild side on the dance oor as talented pianists engage in hilarious and unpredictable musical mash-ups while cocktail servers dish up your favorite drinks. Get ready for a high-energy, adultsonly atmosphere that’ll leave you begging for an encore. Show starts at 9pm, and tickets start at $15. reillyartscenter.com
NIGHT
AT THE
FARM
FUNDRAISING
GALA
MARCH 1
From 6-8:30pm enjoy heavy hors d’oeuvres featuring the avors of Florida and live music by Michael Smith (The String Smith) at the Flavors from Florida event. The CF Vintage Farm is located at 4020 SE Third Ave., and tickets
are $125 per person or $200 per couple. Visit nightatthefarm.org or call the Foundation o ce at (352) 873-5808 for tickets.
ASTRONOMY NIGHT
MARCH 1
This Programs in the Park event is free for all ages and is hosted by the City of Ocala. The astronomy night will take place from 6-9pm at the Ocala Regional Sportsplex. ocala .org/recpark
SPRING ARTS FESTIVAL
MARCH 1-2
Art on display will include paintings, sculptures, photography, glass works, wood carvings, pottery, jewelry and more. The festival will take place at the Shoppes of Thornebrook, and you can check out the event page on Facebook for details and times.
New Exhibit Open
Jan. 18 - May 10
Kenya’s Kids was created by The Magic House, St. Louis Children’s Museum and is generously made possible by the Crawford Taylor Foundation and The Dana Brown Charitable Trust, U.S. Bank Trustee.
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
OPERA AT THE REILLY: PUCCINI LOVE AND LAUGHTER!
REILLY ARTS CENTER
The University of Florida Opera Theatre and the Ocala Symphony Orchestra present two of Giacomo Puccini’s greatest works. The heartfelt Suor Angelica with its soaring orchestral score is one of his most beautiful musical dramas and reminiscent of the passionate Tosca. The hilarious Gianni Schicchi, his only true comedy, will be sung in a modern English translation with plenty of charming local references. Join these wonderful upcoming opera stars and the talented musicians of the OSO for a matinee of marvelous masterpieces.
HEAR HERE
BRICK CITY
BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL
FEBRUARY 1
CITIZENS’ CIRCLE
THE SCREAM QUEENS, DEGENERATES & DIRTY CRUMBUMS
FEBRUARY 1
MUTINY OCALA
MICHELLE INGRHAM
FEBRUARY 6
YELLOW PONY
4 FOR THE ROAD
FEBRUARY 8
CIRCLE SQUARE COMMONS
MADWOMAN
FEBRUARY 12
DOWNTOWN SQUARE
BECKY BABY
FEBRUARY 13
THE JUNIPER GENERAL STORE
THE MUDDS
FEBRUARY 16
MIDTOWN STATION
SANDRA & ALEX LEKID
FEBRUARY 22
MIDTOWN STATION
HOUSTON KEEN
FEBRUARY 23
EATON’S BEACH
SANDBAR & GRILL
KENNADEE
FEBRUARY 23
HORSE & HOUNDS
TICKETS PLEASE
RASCAL FLATTS
APRIL 4
KIA CENTER, ORLANDO
APRIL 5
VYSTAR VETERANS MEMORIAL ARENA, JACKSONVILLE
SHAKIRA
JUNE 4
CAMPING WORLD STADIUM, ORLANDO
METALLICA
JUNE 6 & 8
RAYMOND JAMES STADIUM, TAMPA
POST MALONE
JUNE 10
CAMPING WORLD STADIUM, ORLANDO
AVRIL LAVIGNE
JUNE 20
MIDFLORIDA CREDIT UNION AMPHITHEATRE AT THE FL STATE FAIRGROUNDS, TAMPA
RINGO STARR AND HIS ALL STARR BAND
JUNE 21
THE BAYCARE SOUND, CLEARWATER
JUNE 22
ST. AUGUSTINE AMPHITHEATRE
GOO GOO DOLLS WITH DASHBOARD CONFESSIONAL
JULY 23
ST. AUGUSTINE AMPHITHEATRE
SHANIA TWAIN
JULY 29
DAILY’S PLACE, JACKSONVILLE
LOCAL LIVE &
A
VERY VALENTINO’S DAY EVENT: LOVE SONGS REIMAGINED
FEB 14 | REILLY ARTS CENTER
Prepare to be captivated by Dr. José Valentino, a multi-Latin Grammy and Emmy Awardwinning artist, as he presents love songs reimagined with fresh and unique ensemble con gurations. Journey through timeless melodies from the Americas and the American Songbook, brought to life through Valentino's virtuosic mastery of the ute, soprano and tenor saxophones, bass guitar and his deep and rich bass vocals.
TONIGHT’S THE NIGHT –ROD STEWART TRIBUTE
FEB 15 | ORANGE BLOSSOM OPRY
Rob Caudill and his incredibly talented live band recreate the sound, excitement and fun of Rod in concert! Rob sings all your favorite hits by Rod Stewart, including “Maggie May,” “Hot Legs,” “Rhythm of My Heart,” “Forever Young,” “Have I Told You Lately That I Love You” and “Tonight’s the Night.”
BILLY JOEL/ELTON JOHN
TRIBUTE
FEB 22 | CIRCLE SQUARE CULTURAL CENTER
David Clark performs as Billy Joel along with Bill Connors as Elton John in this thoroughly entertaining and faithful tribute to the Face-to-Face tours of the 1990s and 2000s. Experience a tribute celebrating the two greatest piano men of our generation with hits like “I’m Still Standing,” “Rocket Man,” “Bennie & The Jets,” “Piano Man,” “It’s Still Rock ‘n’ Roll to Me” and “You May Be Right,” along with some deeper fan performances.
THE STARTING LINE
FEBRUARY IS CHOCK-FULL OF MOTORSPORTS ACTION.
WRITTEN BY MELISSA PETERSON
From the Daytona 500 and Gatornationals to bike celebrations in both Daytona Beach and Leesburg, there are plenty of ways to ful ll your need for speed in and around the 352. Here’s a rundown of what’s on the schedule.
SPEEDWEEKS AT OCALA SPEEDWAY
FEBRUARY 4-8, 12-15
Looking for racing fun close to home? February is full of world-class racing at the Ocala Speedway.
The Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series 2025 Winter Nationals will close out its GeorgiaFlorida SpeedWeeks in Ocala this year. The event takes place February 4-8 and features ve nights of action-packed racing highlighted by Saturday Night’s $25,000 50-lap feature event.
Also on the schedule is the 2025 USAC Amsoil Sprint Car National Championship Winter Dirt Games February 12-15.
The Ocala Speedway began operations in 1952. This year will mark its 73rd year of operation, making it the oldest continuously operating race track in the state of Florida. Ocala Speedway is a 3/8-mile, semibanked, clay D-shaped track.
Tickets to most events are $35 for adults. Pit passes are also available, starting at $45. Some special events may have individual pricing, so check the website before you attend. Primitive camping is available, starting at $25.
For more information about these and other upcoming events, visit ocalaspeedway.com
SPEEDWEEKS PRESENTED BY ADVENTHEALTH
FEBRUARY 12-16
Speedweeks presented by AdventHealth o cially kicks o the NASCAR season with an actionpacked schedule of races across several di erent racing series culminating with the Daytona 500 on February 16, all at the World Center of Racing! Nothing beats the pageantry of The Great American Race, and seeing the Daytona 500 live is an experience that will stay with you forever. Feel the electric atmosphere as drivers battle for glory and a chance to cement their place in
history, becoming forever known as a Daytona 500 Champion.
Before all the racing begins you won’t want to miss the NASCAR Cup Series Daytona 500 Qualifying Presented by Busch Light, where teams battle for bragging rights and front row position for the 67th annual Daytona 500.
Other races during the Speedweeks event are the Duel at Daytona on February 13, the Fresh From Florida 250 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series on February 14 and the NASCAR X nity Series and ARCA Menards Series Doubleheader on February 15.
Grandstand seating tickets for the Daytona 500 are selling fast, so visit the website to purchase yours today. See the full schedule and purchase tickets at daytonainternationalspeedway.com
DAYTONA BIKE WEEK
FEBRUARY 28-MARCH 9
Daytona Bike Week is on the bucket list of many motorcycle enthusiasts—and for good reason. Over half a million motorcycles will roll into Daytona for the 84th Annual Daytona Bike Week from February 28-March 9.
Start your adventure at the brand-new Official Bike Week Welcome Center in downtown Daytona Beach, located at the corner of International Speedway Boulevard and Beach Street. Here you’ll find the helpful Daytona Regional Chamber Ambassadors who can share an insider’s view of places to visit and things to do.
Everyone wants to cruise Main Street from the Main Street bridge to State Road A1A. Consider this people- and bike-watching
central as you take in all the sights and sounds of Bike Week.
Explore the 20th Annual Bike Week Motorcycle Swap Meet Extravaganza & Bike Show at Volusia County Fairgrounds for daily bike shows, food, beer and live music. You’ll find all manner of bike items (and more!) for sale or trade from acres of vendors.
The 23-mile Ormond Loop is a mustride for many motorcyclists, thanks to the incredible scenery.
Events at the Daytona International Speedway include the Daytona Supercross on March 1, the Daytona Short Track on March 6-7 and the Daytona 200 on March 6-8. Check out officialbikeweek.com for the full calendar of events.
AMALIE MOTOR OIL NHRA GATORNATIONALS
MARCH 6-9
The Amalie Motor Oil NHRA Gatornationals is an annual National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) national drag race event held each March at Gainesville Raceway. The 2025 event will serve as the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season opener for just the fourth time in history. The event was held for the rst time in 1970. The traditional East Coast opener is one of the sport’s most revered with a rich tradition of history-making performances. Gatornationals has the title of being the drag race to see the rst 260-mph Top Fuel and Funny Car runs in 1984 by Joe Amato and Kenny Bernstein, and the rst 270-mph and 300-mph Top Fuel passes by Don Garlits and Kenny Bernstein in 1986 and 1992. Its 675-foot concrete launchpad is one of the longest on the tour.
During this year’s event, pro classes will qualify twice on Friday and twice on Saturday, including the Top Fuel Callout on Saturday, with eliminations scheduled for Sunday, March 10. Fans will be treated to incredible action in all four professional classes, along with the Pep Boys NHRA Top Fuel All-Star Callout specialty race, as well as action in NHRA Pro Mod, Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown and the Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series.
Learn more at nhra.com and gainesvilleraceway.com
LEESBURG BIKEFEST APRIL 25-27
For three days in April, 30 blocks of historic downtown Leesburg transform into a biker’s paradise, featuring vendors, two stages, three days of entertainment from national and local bands, food and drinks, and more.
As with any bike event, the motorcycles are the main attraction. A handful of not-to-bemissed bike shows will take place throughout the three-day festival, and thousands of bikers will convene in the streets of Leesburg to show o their own rides and hang with fellow bikers. If you’re looking for a little excitement during bike week, the Full Throttle Bike Show will take place on Friday and Saturday and the Central Florida Motorcycle Drill Team will be on-site Saturday and Sunday.
Over the course of the event, tons of concerts will be performed. This year’s headliners are Dirty Honey and Jasmine Cain on Friday, Fuel and Lit on Saturday and The Marshall Tucker Band on Sunday. There will also be plenty of hot-body contests and a variety of bike demonstrations.
For ticket information, plus a schedule of events, visit leesburgbikefest.com
CELEBRATE WITH OCT
PHOTOGRAPHED BY JUSTIN
MACDONALD
DEC 14 | OCALA CIVIC THEATRE
Devoted patrons of Ocala Civic Theatre were recently invited to an intimate holiday-themed gathering to be the first to get a glimpse of OCT’s shining future. The event included champagne and tapas as well as a showing of the evening’s performance of A Tuna Christmas. To learn more about OCT and see showtimes of the current show, Daddy Long Legs , visit ocalacivictheatre.com
ALBERT LYNCH & KEN VILLANOVA
LAURIE REEDER & MELODY MURPHY
ENADILA PARENTE & JOHN TRIPODI
CHRIS & REBECCA HENRY
JASON & TAMMY WARREN, LAURIE ZINK & AMY ROBERTS
CONNIE SWAKLA & BONNIE WILLIAMS
MATT & CINDY LOWE
SCOTT STURGIS & BUNNIE DANIELS
JOHN & DORIS DREWS
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A NIGHT TO REMEMBER
SAXOPHONIST EIRINN ABU TAKES THE STAGE AT CIRCLE SQUARE CULTURAL CENTER.
WRITTEN BY CYNTHIA MCFARLAND
Ocala is in for a major treat.
Multi-platinum saxophone recording artist Eirinn Abu will perform at the Circle Square Cultural Center on February 28.
“We’re bringing a very high-quality show that is visual as well as musical,” says Eirinn. “Expect a show that will touch every emotion and have you reminiscing about moments you’ve shared in the past.”
Joining Eirinn Abu in concert are guitarist Manny Lopez and violinist Pedro Alfonso. These Grammy Award winners have performed with the biggest names in pop music and were previously with Miami Sound Machine.
On February 28, attendees can expect a powerful visual and auditory experience, the type of event typically found playing major arenas. The evening concert, which includes an LED video show, is a benefit performance for the Tunnel to Towers Foundation (T2T).
“We are currently nominated for a World Entertainment Award; this keeps us motivated,” says Eirinn, who lives in Venice, Florida but considers Ocala a “hidden gem.”
Photos courtesy of Eirinn Abu
His smooth, soulful music is often described as the instrumental version of Andrea Bocelli.
“I sing through the saxophone,” says Eirinn, who is delighted with the content of his latest album, Anthem.
“We very strategically took the best iconic songs of the ‘60s, ‘70s and early ‘80s, including “Stairway to Heaven,” “Colour My World” and “A Whiter Shade of Pale,” rearranged them and made this record,” says Eirinn of Anthem , his eighth album.
His whole 2025 Anthem Tour benefits Tunnel to Towers Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that pays off mortgages for the spouses of fallen veterans and first responders. T2T also provides practical assistance by building smart homes for catastrophically injured heroes adjusting to their new lives.
In 2024 alone, T2T delivered over 200 mortgage-free homes to families in its programs: the Fallen First Responder Home Program, Smart Home Program and Gold Star Family Home Program. The charity uses 93 cents of every dollar directly for programs and services, which is why T2T consistently achieves the highest 4-star rating from Charity Navigator.
“My organization, Music for Life Ministries, has partnered with Tunnel to Towers Foundation,” says Eirinn. “This charity meant a lot to me. We take for granted the people who keep us safe.”
EARLY START
A native of Hagerstown, Maryland, Eirinn
began playing the sax at age 10 when his mother brought one home as a surprise.
“I was jumping for joy,” remembers Eirinn, who went on to play in his middle and high school bands and study jazz in college.
He had a medical software company, at which he excelled, but his passion was for music. Eirinn finally said good-bye to that day job and became a full-time musician in 1999. His music has taken him around the world and inspired eight albums.
There have been countless highlights in his career, but Eirinn will always remember the thrill of meeting Dolly Parton and having the opportunity to work with the superstar.
He was living in Stuart, Florida, in 2004 when he received a call from Dolly.
“She said, ‘If you come up here to Nashville, I will take you under my wings and help you fly like an eagle like the rest of us,’” recalls Eirinn of that memorable phone call.
Two weeks later, Eirinn and his manager, Franklin Wolfe, took a ight from West Palm Beach to Nashville. Upon arrival, they were greeted by Eirinn’s new producer, Tony Smith, who brought them to the recording studio on historic Music Row.
“Walking through the door into the studio, I looked ahead and there was Dolly Parton waiting to greet us. I was in shock. The rst thought that came to mind was, ‘Don’t look down. Have perfect eye contact,’” recalls Eirinn, admitting this made him even more nervous.
He soon realized there was no reason for being nervous. When he approached Dolly with his hand out to shake hers in a formal introduction, she grabbed him in a big hug, asking, “Are you ready to fly like an eagle?”
He responded, “Yes Ma’am!” and the rest is history. Later that month, Dolly Parton recorded her legendary hit, “I Will Always Love You” on Eirinn’s new country album, Sax in the Country.
The upcoming February 28 performance in Ocala is a rare opportunity to catch a local live show of the platinum-selling team that has captivated audiences around the world. Get your tickets at the Circle Square Cultural Center website before they sell out, and prepare for an evening to remember.
EIRINN ABU: TUNNEL TO TOWERS FOUNDATION BENEFIT CONCERT Circle Square Cultural Center February 28, 7pm csculturalcenter.com eirinnabu.com t2t.org
HANDS-ON HISTORY
EXPERIENCE ANCIENT FLORIDA AT THE SILVER RIVER KNAP-IN AND PREHISTORIC ARTS FESTIVAL.
WRITTEN BY CYNTHIA MCFARLAND
Florida is so much more than amusement parks and beaches. The Sunshine State is rich in history and archaeological wonders.
Experience it for yourself at the Silver River Knap-In and Prehistoric Arts Festival at Silver Springs State Park on February 15 -16.
This 14th annual festival is the largest event of its kind in the Southeast and features int knappers, archaeologists, shell carvers, potters, hide tanners, bow makers, dugout canoe carvers and other native skills specialists from across the country.
Flint knappers practice the art of making stone tools, such as spear points, by hand. You’ll see ancient Native American stone tools from Florida and numerous other artifacts and crafts.
But this isn’t a “look, don’t touch” event. Attendees learn about the cultural and natural history of Florida and can take part in handson activities, including archery and pottery making. It’s a fun opportunity to learn as you participate.
WE BROADENED THE OFFERINGS TO INCLUDE DIFFERENT SKILLS DEMONSTRATIONS AS WELL AS VENDORS AND CRAFTSMEN. PEOPLE COME FROM ALL OVER THE EASTERN U.S. TO TAKE PART AND DISPLAY THEIR WORKS.
SCOTT MITCHELL, MUSEUM COORDINATOR
Traditional Bowhunters of Florida (TBOF), one of the festival’s sponsors, will have an archery range on-site. Adults and children alike can enjoy an introduction to archery with safe one-on-one coaching, thanks to TBOF members.
There are also hands-on stations where children can make an Indian mask or clay pot to take home.
Seminole tribal members from Big Cypress Reservation will demonstrate dugout canoe
carving, and Florida archaeology experts will give presentations throughout the weekend. Throughout the event, vendors will also be o ering unique crafts and food for sale.
Your $10 event admission includes access to Silver Springs State Park. Come for the festival, tour the Silver River Museum and eat lunch from multiple food vendors. You can stay longer to explore park trails or even canoe or kayak on the Silver River.
The festival had been held at Payne’s Prairie for many years before moving to the Silver River Museum in 2010.
“We broadened the o erings to include di erent skills demonstrations as well as vendors and craftsmen,” says Scott Mitchell, museum coordinator. “People come from all over the
eastern U.S. to take part and display their works.”
“Very few school districts in Florida have a dedicated museum and environmental center,” notes Scott. “It’s a feather in the cap for Marion County. We work as a school site and see students every weekday. The museum is open to the public on Saturday and Sunday.”
The festival o ers family-oriented fun and is a great excuse to explore the Silver River Museum and Silver Springs State Park. All proceeds support the museum’s educational programs.
SILVER RIVER KNAP-IN AND PREHISTORIC ARTS FESTIVAL
February 15-16, 10am-4pm
Silver River Museum 1445 NE 58th Avenue, Ocala (352) 236-5401
$10 event admission per person (kids 5 and under free). Free park entry and parking. silverrivermuseum.com facebook.com/SilverRiverMuseumO cialPage
Photos courtesy of Brick City Digital
W W W . M I D S T A T E S K I N . C O
ALL ABOUT AG
FROM STRAWBERRIES AND LIVESTOCK SHOWS TO VISITING THE STATE FAIR, FEBRUARY IS THE PERFECT TIME TO TALK ABOUT FLORIDA’S AGRICULTURE INDUSTRY.
WRITTEN BY MELISSA PETERSON
With all the fun on your schedule this month, learning more about and enjoying Florida’s rich agriculture industry might not be on your radar. Well, we’re here to keep you informed! From the Florida Strawberry Festival in Plant City and Marion County’s Southeastern Youth Fair to the Florida State Fair held each year at Tampa’s Florida State Fairgrounds, there’s more to ag than you know.
BERRYLICIOUS
According to the Florida Strawberry Growers Association, over 15,000 acres of strawberries are grown in the state of Florida. Making it second in production of fresh berries in the nation.
“Florida supplies over 20 percent of the nation’s fresh supply of strawberries during the winter months,” says Sue Harrell, marketing director for the Florida Strawberry Growers Association. “Our harvest begins in late November and continues until April if the market and weather permits. Most of our farms are family owned, and we have been growing strawberries on the same land within a 20-mile radius of the city of Plant City for over 120 years.”
To celebrate Florida’s strawberry industry,
the Florida Strawberry Festival is held in Plant City for 11 days in late February and early March each year. This year’s festival takes place February 27-March 9.
“The Florida Strawberry Festival is a huge event, celebrating the city of Plant City and the beautiful strawberries grown there,” says Sue. “It’s full of named entertainment and every type of strawberry dish you can imagine.”
Beyond the midway rides and games and famous strawberry treats, the festival hosts a hefty lineup of live musical entertainment, including national and regional talent. A full list of performers can be found on the website. However, in a nod to the area’s agriculture heritage, the festival isn’t all literal fun and games—there is also a full schedule of youth livestock shows, as well as The Neighborhood Village, which is dedicated to homemade and handcrafted items created by the community.
See the full schedule of events at flstrawberryfestival.com.
FAIR FUN
Emerging from its small start in 1904, today’s Florida State Fair welcomes more than 500,000 guests each year, o ers the largest midway in North America with more than 90 rides and awards more than $1 million to exhibitors and competitors.
This year’s state fair will take place February 6-17 at the Florida State Fairgrounds in Tampa.
One of everyone’s favorite fair traditions is taste-testing some of the outlandish fair food, and this year’s new dishes will not leave you disappointed. When you get hungry, check out the baked ziti on a stick, barbecue-stu ed wa es, chicken and wa e funnel cake, chocolate bacon cheesecake on a stick or maybe even the pretzel-rolled corn on the cob. You can visit the fair’s website to see all the new treats on the menu for 2025.
Going back to the fair’s start, the agriculture exhibits shouldn’t be put on the back burner. The Ag Hall of Fame is a presentation of Florida’s wide variety of
agricultural commodities and products where you can learn about the lives and accomplishments of the Ag Hall of Fame inductees. The Cattle Ranching Museum o ers a look into Florida’s cattle industry, one of the oldest and largest in the nation. Additional ag experiences include Ag-Venture and Ag Bootcamp, both of which o er a hands-on learning experience; the sh and wildlife exhibit; the forest discovery center; multiple petting zoos; a learning garden; a steam engine exhibit; the livestock and poultry barns; Cracker Country, a 19th century Florida pioneer village; and the creative living competitions, where you can view works of art
created by individuals across the state.
See the full schedule of events at oridastatefair.com.
FARM FOUNDATIONS
The oldest all-youth fair in the country that operates without a midway, the Southeastern Youth Fair (SEYF) is an incredible organization serving the agriculture industry and our local community’s youth.
“It operates not on ticket sales and carnival rides but is 100 percent dedicated to our youth showing livestock projects and participating in other skill contests,” says Sara LeFils, executive director of the SEYF. “All
new contests this year, a tablescaping contest and an insectathon.
Aside from Sara’s position, every other person involved in the SEYF is a volunteer. According to Sara, last year, the fair logged 400 volunteers with almost 10,000 hours devoted to the project.
One important aspect of the fair is the impact that purchasing an animal at the SEYF can have on a child.
“Youth from the age of 8 to 18 can show a market animal, which is then sold at auction,” explains Sara. “The profit from these sales is given directly to the exhibitors and 4-H clubs and FFA chapters. Many kids save the funds they earn to help pay for college or their first vehicle, for example. Clubs and chapters often use their funds for school projects or educational conventions.”
exhibitors participate in either 4-H or FFA—or both. All youth participating either live in or go to school in Marion County, and many participants are second, third and even fourth generation exhibitors.”
Now in its 85th year, this year’s fair takes place February 20-March 1, and all events are held at the Southeastern Livestock Pavilion. The fair includes 26 shows and contests, including the traditional livestock and animal judging but also horse and dog shows, a plant ID contest, an ambassador/leadership program, club hay bale exhibits, home arts exhibits, a cooking and baking contest, a barbecue contest, a sewing and needlework contest, tractor driving and, two
The fair is open to the public, and there are no gate or parking fees. Everything is free, and everyone is welcome to observe the contests, view the exhibits and cheer on the kids.
“As our population continues to grow and society changes, people are becoming more and more removed from knowledge of where their food comes from, how it’s grown and how it makes it to their plate,” says Sara. “Teaching our youth about agriculture is one of the most important things we can do for our community and our future. Marion County has such a rich history and legacy of agriculture, and it’s imperative we keep that passion and tradition alive.”
Learn more about the fair and see the full schedule at seyfair.com
ANCIENT ART
OCALA CALLIGRAPHY GUILD CELEBRATES ELEGANT LINK TO HISTORY.
WRITTEN BY CYNTHIA MCFARLAND
Calligraphy is known as an artistic, stylized, elegant handwriting or lettering. It’s also been described as a visual art related to writing.
The Ocala Calligraphy Guild has promoted this historic style of artistic lettering since launching in 2016. An active group of people interested in calligraphy and the lettering arts, the guild o ers classes for all skill levels.
You may have encountered members of Ocala Calligraphy Guild at First Friday Art Walk each month giving away free bookmarks with names penned in calligraphy.
This lettering and art form has had a major resurgence.
“It used to be the only way anything was written, especially in religious texts,” explains instructor and past guild president Alison Clement. “Western calligraphy started during the Roman era and then evolved very much over the years, which is why there are so many
di erent styles.
“Most people who come into our guild are brand-new beginners or haven’t done calligraphy in years. Some members just work in one style, but we teach di erent styles in our classes. Foundational style is a good place to start,” says Alison, who has been studying calligraphy for over 35 years.
“Typically, when we think of calligraphy, the rst thing people think is Copperplate, that gorgeous style with all the ourishes you see on wedding invitations,” says Barb Dean, current guild vice president and membership o cer. “When I started, I thought if you had nice handwriting, you could do calligraphy, but it’s a whole di erent world from handwriting.”
Alison notes that instructors from all over the world share their skills with members in a variety of classes and presentations. During the pandemic, instructors who formerly had to travel were able to teach by Zoom.
“We picked up quite a few members around the country because other guilds didn’t do Zoom,” notes Barb. “We currently have 94 members from 17 di erent states and Australia.”
Meetings and classes continue to be hybrid, so you can participate in person or via Zoom.
Meetings are free and open to the public at the Chelsea Art Center in Ocala at 11am on the third Monday of the month from September to May. You can attend a meeting rst and then decide if you want to join the guild.
Dues range from just $20 to $30 per year. Members get advanced notice for all classes and workshops, lower class fees and newsletter access.
On the second Wednesday of each month from 4-5pm, a free introductory calligraphy session is taught at the Mary Sue Rich Community Center and is open to all, age 7 and older.
OCALA CALLIGRAPHY GUILD
Learn more at ocalacalligraphy.org
Photo courtesy of Ocala
Calligraphy Guild
BAKERY
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IF YOU LIKE MASSAGE & PHYSICAL THERAPY, YOU’LL LOVE GET STRETCH’D.
Day-to-day life, stress and aging all take a toll on your body. Whether you’re dealing with aches and pains, a job that keeps you at a desk, strenuous athletic activities or a demanding schedule that creates both physical and mental stress, one-on-one assisted stretching can provide you with vital relief and both immediate and long-term solutions. Stretching is a necessity for range of motion, exibility and preventing imbalances that can cause issues like sciatica, back, knee and hip pain.
Get Stretch’d, Ocala’s premier stretching studio located in Churchill Square Shopping Center, next to Publix, as well as Zone West Health & Fitness at Market Street at Heath Brook Shopping Center can address those issues and get you feeling your best. If you’d like to see a quick YouTube video of an assisted stretch demo, scan the QR code in this ad. And if you’ve never heard of assisted stretching, these questions and answers may help you decide if assisted stretching is worth a try.
motion that is halted by your stretch re ex. Our skilled stretch professionals provide active dynamic stretching with added resistance that will give you a deeper stretch with maximum bene ts. You’ll experience isolated stretches that target speci c muscle groups needed to give you relief.
I CAN STRETCH MYSELF. WHY DO I NEED ASSISTED STRETCHING?
Assisted stretching allows your body to relax and push past your body’s normal range of
IS STRETCHING THE ONLY THING YOU DO DURING MY SESSION?
No! In addition to custom-tailored assisted stretches, we perform additional therapeutic modalities, which may include acupressure,
muscle gun treatments, muscle scraping, ice therapy and stretch bands, all at no additional cost.
HOW IS PRACTITIONER-ASSISTED STRETCHING DIFFERENT FROM MASSAGE?
Stretching is practically painless and a necessity for everyone. When you elongate your connective tissues, you increase exibility, mitigate pain and improve your overall body health.
DOES STRETCHING HELP WITH SCIATICA OR OTHER PAIN?
Yes, stretching can alleviate or eliminate pain from head to toe, including sciatica, plantar fasciitis and lower back, hip and knee pain. It also increases circulation, exibility and range of motion, reduces tension and body stress, improves mobility and decreases risk of injury. In most cases, we can help those with hip and knee replacements, as well as those with shoulder repairs.
WHO IS STRETCHING ME? ARE THEY TRAINED IN THIS FIELD?
You are being stretched by well-trained, professional, certi ed stretchers who all have backgrounds in anatomy and physiology, ranging from physical therapy, occupational therapy, kinesiology, physical training and exercise science.
WHEN WILL I SEE RESULTS?
You can see results immediately depending on the severity of your complications, but a consistent stretching plan will increase those health bene ts over time. Just like any activity, consistency is key.
IS STRETCHING EXPENSIVE? DO YOU ACCEPT INSURANCE?
No. It’s extremely a ordable! We accept cash, checks and credit cards, plus select FSA and HSA reimbursements on single stretches and memberships. We recommend that you consult your FSA administrator for approval before submitting for reimbursement.
BENEFITS OF ASSISTED STRETCHING:
+ STIMULATES INCREASED CIRCULATION
+ IMPROVES MOBILITY
+ INCREASES FLEXIBILITY AND RANGE OF MOTION
+ IMPROVES STRENGTH AND PHYSICAL PERFORMANCE
Jagger
CERTIFIED STRETCHER, ADVANCED ASSISTED STRETCHING IN PHYSIOLOGY OF FLEXIBILITY
Shannyn
B.A ATHLETIC TRAINING, EXERCISE PHYSIOLOGY, MASTER’S APPLIED PHYSIOLOGY AND KINESIOLOGY
+ IMPROVES POSTURE
+ REDUCES STRESS
+ REDUCES MUSCLE AND JOINT PAIN
+ DECREASES INJURY RISK
+ ALLEVIATES BACK, KNEE, HIP AND SHOULDER PAIN, SCIATICA AND TENSION
PHYSICAL THERAPY ASSISTANT, HEALTH SCIENCE DEGREE, CERTIFIED STRETCHER
No, Get Stretch’d is a family-owned business. Founders Dean and Kathy Johnson have been well-known in the community for the past 30 years for their entrepreneurial journies in the magazine publication business and radio management. They, along with their grandson and partner, Jagger, believe in the transformative bene ts of stretching, and their mission is to help clients achieve their wellness goals.
STRETCH’D 303 SE 17th St., Ste. 301 (Next to Publix) 4414 SW College Rd., Ste. 1012 (in Zone Health & Fitness Heath Brook) (352) 820-3911 getstretchedocala.com getstretchedocala getstretchedocala
ani
Mal advocates
For 10 years, Voices of Change Animal League (VOCAL) has been providing low-cost pet care, nutritional needs and shelter for thousands of dogs and cats in our community. And if you’re an animal lover, you can help!
written
by
karin fabry-cushenbery
photographed by maven photo + film
“VOCAL started as a concept and a business plan for a low-cost clinic,” says co-founder Linda Norman. “We literally started with no money, just a dream to bring change to the pets in our community. Then we went out and told our story and presented our plan to people who also wanted to make a di erence. Fortunately, very early on, this community embraced our vision and came beside us to bring in the money needed to build our clinic and our non-pro t organization. It took us four years to raise the money to open our clinic, but in the meantime, we were busy rescuing and adopting animals.”
And those sweet furbabies need your help! This month, the sta and volunteers of VOCAL will be putting on their biggest annual fundraiser, the Furball. The event will take place February 21 in Expo Center 1 at the World Equestrian Center. The Furball promises to be a night of great food, great entertainment, camaraderie and, last but not least, animal cuddles and pets. This year’s theme? Tails and Teal.
“It is always a special event that is black tie optional but also likely to include a few dogs or puppies to love on,” says Linda. “This year is particularly special because we are celebrating our 10-year anniversary. The Furball is our main fundraiser each year, and it includes a cocktail hour and silent auction, dinner, a live auction with Bernadette Castro, followed by music and dancing. Radio personality Louis Stokes will be our emcee again this year.”
and high school kids was created with an eye toward the future of animal welfare.”
Founded in 2018, VOCAL’s Youth Council encourages kids to educate others on animal empathy, responsible pet ownership and the importance of spaying and neutering your pets. The Council is application-based, and kids spend time gaining volunteer hours while working at adoption events, washing dogs, animal socialization for the resident dogs and cats, cleaning kennels, preparing meals for the animals and more.
Money raised from this beloved event, plus donations throughout the year, support VOCAL’s mission of working toward solving the homeless pet problem in our community. The organization’s low-cost spay-neuter clinic was opened in 2015 and now treats roughly 12,000 dogs and cats each year for spay and neuter services and beyond. In the years that followed the clinic’s opening, though, Linda, along with co-founders Kate Rengel and Lauren Carpenter, realized that the animal needs of our community ran much deeper, so they did something about it.
“We realized very early on that our initial goal of opening a low-cost spay-neuter clinic was a great start to addressing the issue of
overpopulation, but more was needed,” explains Linda. “To that end we opened our shelter and adoption program, created our rescue food program, which is feeding animals in a 10-county area in partnership with Chewy and R&L Carriers, and created Project Feed that is addressing the needs of families that love their pets but may have fallen on hard times. We also realized that our VOCAL Clinic & Resource Center needed to expand services beyond spay/ neuter to meet the needs of our community. Thus, we o er wellness days, drive-through vaccine clinics, heartworm treatment, dental services and specialty surgeries, at a ordable prices. We also have the Tammy Green Daniels Fix the Future initiative that will subsidize our already low costs when someone truly cannot a ord to pay, and the animal is in need. Our TNR program for cats is how we address community and feral cats, and our Youth Council for middle
Siblings Delaney and Lennon Peterson, VOCAL Youth Council volunteers, began their journeys with the Council rst due to needing volunteer hours for school but soon realized there was much more to love about VOCAL.
“I really enjoyed my time volunteering with VOCAL’s Youth Council because it makes me feel like I’m making a real di erence in the community,” says Delaney, who volunteered on the Council in middle school and is now a sophomore at Belleview High School. “As the owner of three dogs and a cat myself, I’m an animal lover, and it was always important to me to help VOCAL nd good homes for the homeless pets in our community. When my brother, Lennon, started middle school this year, he was looking for somewhere to volunteer to earn community service hours, and I made sure he knew not only how important volunteering was but also how much fun it could be. VOCAL was
the perfect t for him as well.”
“Last month I volunteered with VOCAL at the Sheltering Hands PAW Chili Challenge,” says Lennon, a sixth grader at The Cornerstone School. “I helped run the booth by giving out chili samples and talking to people who stopped by about what we do at VOCAL and why it’s important. I also recently helped clean the cat porches where the feral cats hang out while they’re waiting for surgeries and got to play with some cute puppies and even cuter kittens while we were there. That’s my favorite part— giving pets and love to the animals while they’re waiting for their new homes.”
Jasmine Fabry, a sophomore at Belleview High School and Council member, echoes those sentiments.
“At VOCAL we have a variety of di erent events and tasks we can sign up for,” she says. “My personal favorites are spending time with the cats in the kitty condo and putting together bowls to give to the animals. I’ve also assisted at fundraisers, decorated the kennels for holidays and been in the clinic. I enjoy getting to play with the kitties alongside other kids my age as we chat and giggle at the animal’s hijinks. The cooking days are especially fun. We wash, cut, bake and boil ingredients before putting it all together and distributing it to the excited dogs. Seeing the happy faces and tails of the animals is a highlight.”
Jasmine encourages other young people to get involved and do their part to help the animals, as well.
“When I joined VOCAL, I was searching for a volunteer opportunity to ful ll my school’s requirements,” she says. “Ever since I was small, I wanted to volunteer at an animal shelter. The people are kind and made me feel welcome. I never felt pressured into anything and really enjoyed heading there after school. If a young person really loves animals and is looking for a
place to volunteer, I de nitely recommend VOCAL. The people are friendly, and the animals are always excited to have a new helper around.”
Linda says the VOCAL Clinic and Community Resource Center was built in 2019. This stateof-the-art facility was funded through generous room sponsors and another donor who stepped up and purchased the facility’s initial equipment.
“Since then, we have added additional equipment, closed in our feral porch and added AC and heat for the comfort of the ferals recovering from surgery, upgraded our laundry facilities and added a generator that will power the entire clinic in the event of a power failure,” says Linda.
On average, VOCAL houses 75 to 80 animals in the shelter, and the volunteers who help with the daily cleaning, cooking and loving of the animals make it all possible.
One such volunteer, who has been with VOCAL for a decade now, is Rob Carney.
“What drew me to VOCAL is my love and passion for animals,” he says. “I sold my business of 30 years in 2011, and in 2015 Linda approached me and asked if I would be interested in being on the board of VOCAL. Well, since she was tugging on my heart with my love for animals, I just couldn’t refuse. I became a board member soon after VOCAL started. My job at VOCAL is to socialize the dogs and help them become adoptable. I walk about every dog at our facility and love on the kittens and adult cats when I am nished with the dogs. Other than that, whatever else they need help with I am usually there for them.”
And there’s plenty of work to be done.
The 22-acre facility includes the shelter building itself, an o ce, a clinic and the kitty cabins.
The kitties who call VOCAL home (at least until they are adopted into their forever homes) live in open, climate-controlled spaces with plenty of towers to climb and toys to play with. The kitty shelters also feature attached cat patios, or catios, so the cats can spend time bathing in the sun and breathing in the fresh air.
“We also take pride in the fact that our dogs have the freedom to roam in individual yards attached to their indoor 8x10 kennels,” says Linda. “They also get lots of group playtime, walks and belly rubs. Our spacious acreage is used for long walks and future expansion.”
Of course, animal safety and wellness starts at home. The ladies from VOCAL stress that you can do your part by controlling the pet population and keeping your pets happy and healthy, as well.
“Safety for your pets requires vigilance just like you would for toddlers,” says Linda. “Puppies especially can get into things that are
toxic to them. They can escape when you aren’t paying attention, and they can be lured away by people with bad intentions. Microchipping and registration of that microchip goes a long way to ensure that a lost pet is returned to you.”
As for the animals who call VOCAL home, they come to the facility by all di erent means.
“They have come in through all walks of life,” says Rob. “Some are strays, some we pull from other shelters, some are owner surrender and some are on their death beds. It’s rewarding to see a dog come in skin and bones near death and within a few months we have helped that dog get healthy by putting meat back on his bones and it’s running around literally smiling enjoying life again. That feeling brings happy tears to my eyes all the time. The bond I have with all these animals is sometimes to the detriment of my heart. By that I mean we are here to help animals nd a loving home, and it’s easy to fall in love
with these animals when you work so closely with them every week and to see them go you can’t help but miss them. I wish I could take them all home. Kennel life is not what we want them to have, so we try very hard to get them all in a loving and nourishing home. They all need to be part of a family not just an animal going to a home."
Rob encourages anyone with a love of animals to visit VOCAL and consider becoming a muchneeded volunteer, whether at VOCAL or another deserving animal rescue facility.
“What I would say to someone who wants to work at any shelter is that you can make a di erence in an animal’s life,” he says. “Each of these animals has been born into this world, and it’s up to us to make sure they feel love and comfort for as long as they are in this world.”
Happy Valentine’s Day! Head to El Toreo for the best Mexican food this side of the border! Enjoy all of your favorite traditional Mexican dishes in a friendly and festive atmosphere. Beyond the outstanding Mexican food, El Toreo simply o ers a warm, fun place to be—whether you’re dressed up or casual. Any day is a good day for one of El Toreo’s tasty margaritas: Mondays and Wednesdays $2 margaritas, Saturdays 2-for-1 margaritas and 2-for-1 happy hour every day from 4-7pm (excluding margaritas).
FRAMING TOKYO
RICH IN HISTORY, BURSTING WITH FLAVOR
ST. AUGUSTINE EXPERIENCES OFFERS A VARIETY OF FUN FOODIE TOURS.
WRITTEN BY CYNTHIA MCFARLAND
No city in Florida has a longer history than St. Augustine. Founded by the Spanish in 1565, it holds the distinction of being the oldest continuously occupied settlement of European origin in the United States.
Discover the legacy of this remarkable city and savor amazing avors at the same time by signing up for a walking food tour.
Alex Drywa led walking tours in New York City for 15 years before visiting St. Augustine, falling in love with the town and moving there. He opened St. Augustine Experiences in 2019, o ering a variety of fun food tours, including
ST. AUGUSTINE WINE, COCKTAIL & FOOD EXPERIENCE
Spend an afternoon reveling in scenic surroundings as you sip adult beverages and indulge in fabulous cuisine on this threehour walking tour. It’s a culinary escapade in a city layered with history. If you plan to have wine/ beer, you must be 21 or older, but non-alcoholic drinks are an option for those under 21 or non-drinkers.
DINING AT TWILIGHT: AN EVENING CULINARY EXPERIENCE
Come hungry! This progressive dinner walking tour lasts about three hours and includes plenty of food at three drinking and dining establishments.
BOURBON, WHISKEY & HISTORY CRAWL
Local guides peel back the city’s fascinating history while you explore selected venues enjoying curated ights of premium bourbon and whiskey paired with delicious bites.
the highly popular St. Augustine Wine, Cocktail & Food Experience, ranked no. 1 in the world on TripAdvisor in 2022.
“All the history tours have some type of culinary element,” says Alex. “St. Augustine is the tour, but we work with 28 restaurants downtown, so we’re introducing guests to all these spots. Our tours are only for groups of eight or less, so the intimacy makes for a very personal experience.”
Whether you’re looking for a unique date, foodie adventure, girlfriends’ outing or family fun, there’s a tour for you.
ST. AUGUSTINE SWEETS & HISTORY TOUR
Chocolate, sweets and history come together in this 90-minute walking tour suitable for all ages. You’ll enjoy tastings at ve sweet shops and even get a thermal bag to take home treats.
ST. AUGUSTINE BEER & HISTORY CRAWL
Discover the city’s breweries, enjoy Florida craft beer and learn about St. Augustine as the tour takes you to brewpubs and bars where you’ll sample up to 12 beer styles.
Whichever tour you choose, the experience will include walking the cobblestone streets of the ancient city, so wear comfortable shoes and come prepared to have fun.
Visit the website to sign up for tours and check the calendar for availability.
352 PREVIEW READERS GET 15 PERCENT OFF ON ANY TOUR OR GIFT CARD PURCHASE WITH PROMO CODE 352.
Treat yourself to a memorable dining experience at La Cuisine. Only the highest quality ingredients and produce are used to create traditional French fare in a one-of-a-kind atmosphere. Reminiscent of a quaint Paris bistro, La Cuisine o ers an ambiance that is ideal for a family brunch, a business dinner or a romantic evening out. With awardwinning dishes that are prepared fresh, in-house, each meal includes personal touches that only La Cuisine can provide.
Indoor and outdoor patio dining is available in beautiful downtown. Enjoy live music on Fridays and Saturdays.
9 Golden Spoons and Hall of Fame Award from Florida Trend Magazine.
TASTY TO-DOS
FEBRUARY 7
BOURBON IN THE BARN
Head to CF’s Vintage Farm for the annual Bourbon in the Barn event, bene ting the Boys and Girls Club of Marion County. Indulge in bourbon tastings and hors d’oeuvres while enjoying the opportunity to bid on incredible live and silent auction items, including luxurious vacations and unique experiences. The event takes place from 7-9pm, and VIP and general admission tickets are available. Learn more on their Facebook page at facebook.com/bgcofmarion
FEBRUARY 8
SANDY’S SHACK 2025 WINE AWARDS
Each month, Sandy’s Shack Imported Wine & Beer awards a wine that truly stands out and deserves more attention. During the annual Wine Awards event, attendees get to taste each of the 12 awarded wines paired with a perfect food selection. There are four whites paired with charcuterie and cheese and eight reds paired with a di erent plate of wonderful food by Posh Home Dining with Chef Stefanie and Chef James Reid. During the event you’ll also receive a personal voting card so you can decide
which one white and one red wine wins the annual competition. The event runs from 6-10pm, and tickets are $136.65 each. Tickets include 12 2-ounce wine pours and the food pairings, plus a souvenir photograph to commemorate the evening. Purchase your ticket at sandysshack.com.
FEBRUARY 21-23
25TH ANNUAL OCALA/BELLEVIEW GREEK FESTIVAL
Our community’s always popular Greek Festival is back this month at the Saint Mark Greek Orthodox Church in Belleview. Come out for a weekend of food, dancing, vendors and plenty of fun. Get a taste of Greece with delicious, authentic Greek food and pastries, and visit The Taverna, serving Greek beer, wine, frappes, ouzo lemonade and soft drinks. You’ll also enjoy a live Greek band and folk dancers, as well as free door prizes, ra es and children’s activities on Saturday and Sunday. All proceeds bene t the church as well as several additional local charities. The event takes place from 11am-8pm on Friday and Saturday and 11am-6pm on Sunday at 9926 SE 36th Avenue in Belleview. Admission is $3 for adults and free for children under 12. Parking is free. Learn more at greekfestivalocala.com.
MOOYAH BURGERS, FRIES & SHAKES
40 SW FORT KING STREET, OCALA
MOOYAH Burgers, Fries & Shakes recently celebrated its grand opening in the Ocala area, and several lucky guests were rewarded for their visit with a year of free MOOYAH burgers! If you didn’t check them out during the celebration, you’ll want to nd time to stop by. Their 100 percent Certi ed Angus Beef hand-crafted and custom-made burgers, hand-cut French fries and real ice cream milk shakes are worth the visit. If you’re looking for something unique, try one of the burgers in the Burger Hall of “Dang!”—these are anything but ordinary. From The Indulgent BBQ and The Hamburdog to The Well D’Onion, The Ranch Hand and The Tur-Cali Club, there’s something fun to try each time you visit MOOYAH. The menu also includes more traditional burgers, Hebrew National hot dogs, Jennie-O turkey burgers and Dr. Praeger’s black bean vegan burgers, so there really is something for every taste. See the full menu at mooyah.com
FLYERS CAFÉ
18651 N U.S. HWY 301, STE. A-2, CITRA Flyers Café, located on Highway 301 in Citra, has exciting news! They recently shared that the restaurant will be featured in the broadcast and streaming docuseries Florida Eats! According to the café’s Facebook page, the series chose Flyers to be one of only 100 of the tens of thousands of eateries across the state to be featured. The series lmed at Flyers Café on January 18. Flyers Café o ers delicious, madefrom-scratch Italian, American homestyle and in-house smoked BBQ entrées in a cozy, warm atmosphere with an eclectic menu, from fresh, never frozen hamburgers to a wide variety of family favorites. Check them out on Facebook to stay up to date on release dates and more.
