352 Preview Magazine 01/23

TOP TEN 01.23

ONE 2 OCALA BOAT SHOW HEALTH &

Live your best life this year, starting with the 2023 Health & Wellness Expo at Circle Square Cultural Center from 10am-2pm. Chat with Marion, Citrus and Lake County health care providers and enjoy live wellness demonstrations from the On Top of the World tness sta and clubs and The Ranch Fitness Center & Spa team. This event is free and open to the public and is sponsored by On Top of the World Communities LLC and AdventHealth Ocala. Visit the Circle Square Cultural Center Facebook page for more information.

JANUARY 6-8

Ocala’s biggest boating event is coming to the World Equestrian Center (Expo Center 2). The Ocala Boat Show o ers everything from cruisers and pontoons to watersport boats and marine and outdoor accessories from the area’s largest dealers. The event is happening from 1-7pm on Friday, 10am6pm on Saturday and 10am-4pm on Sunday. Advance tickets are $7, $8 cash at the door, with $5 tickets available on Friday if purchased in advance. Children 12 and under are free, and parking is free. bmgevents.com/boat.html

FLORIDA MANATEE FESTIVAL

The Florida Manatee Festival returns to downtown Crystal River Saturday from 9am-5pm and Sunday 9am-4pm. Spanning both sides of Citrus Avenue, the 2023 Florida Manatee Festival boasts live entertainment on multiple stages, two food courts, two beer and wine gardens, manatee boat tours, guided kayak tours, a ne art walk, craft vendors and a kids’ zone. GoManateeFest.com

BLESSED BE THE BIRDS EXHIBIT THROUGH JUNE 9

Blessed be the Birds by local artist Courtney Kravig-McGuire opened in December and is available for viewing Monday through Friday from 8am-5pm at the Clerk’s O ce at Ocala City Hall, located at 110 SE Watula Avenue. This exhibit is free and open to the public. To learn more about the artist and view her complete portfolio, visit direct.me/theinkyibis. For more information about the exhibit, visit ocala .org/artincityspaces.

help with your New Year’s resolutions on January 19. Each tasting is held from 5-8pm. sandysshack.com

JURASSIC BOWLHABITAT BOWL2BUILD JANUARY 5

Join Habitat for Humanity for a night of fun, laughs and cheers during the 12th annual Bowl-2Build Bowlathon. Form a team and think of a unique team name under the Jurassic Park movies. The event takes place at AMF Galaxy West Lanes from 5:30-8pm. habitatocala.org/bowlathon

*COUCH SESSIONS ART EXHIBIT JANUARY 6-28

amazed at what they just witnessed. The event takes place at the Marion Theatre at 8pm. reillyartscenter.com

PRIMERO Y ULTIMO (FIRST AND LAST) ART SHOW JANUARY

7

After three years Ocala artist Andres Garcia will be showcasing his variety of art styles at the Magnolia Art Xchange from 5-9pm. This is a free event. Check him out on Instagram: @O cialLaughingArtist. maxocala.org

SENSORY-FRIENDLY SATURDAYS

JANUARY 7

CF WEBBER GALLERY FACULTY ART EXHIBITION JANUARY 9-FEBRUARY 2

The College of Central Florida will showcase the talent of its visual arts faculty in the biennial Faculty Art Exhibition. New artwork created by Tyrus Clutter, James O’Leary, Michele Wirt and Graham Young will be on display. The Webber Gallery is located at the CF Ocala Campus, 3001 SW College Road. Hours are 10am-4pm Monday-Thursday, and admission is free. (352) 854-2322, ext. 1664.

H2O GO!

THROUGH FEBRUARY 11

The new Discovery Center exhibit opened in December and is open to the public through February 11. The exhibit invites you to go on an H2O adventure through rivers, lakes and streams and even into the atmosphere to see why this tiny molecule is so important. The Discovery Center is open Tuesday-Saturday from 10am4pm and closed Sunday and Monday. General admission is $8, infants 2 and under get in free. mydiscoverycenter.org

FREE WINE TASTING

JANUARY 5 & 19

Sandy’s Shack Imported Wine & Beer is hosting two free wine tastings this month. Because they know you’re on a budget this time of year, they will o er tastings of their lowest-priced wines on January 5 and dry wines to

Couch Sessions will be taking over the Brick City Center for the Arts with an art show featuring seasons one thru ve Couch Session artists and musicians in a oneof-a-kind interactive exhibit. The gallery will be open to the general public during the First Friday Art Walk on January 6 from 6-9pm. Guests will enjoy an interactive “Art Hunt” where participants will be entered in to win a prize from a local business. The fun continues throughout the month with backto-back events. mcaocala.org

FIRST FRIDAY ART WALK JANUARY 6

First Friday Art Walk takes place the rst Friday of each month, September through May, from 6-9pm. The event features works for sale from a variety of artists, performing artists at the gazebo and business vendors. ocala .org/artwalk

JEFF LEESON: SORRY I’M NOT KEVIN HART COMEDY TOUR JANUARY 6

For over 22 years Je Leeson has been astonishing crowds across North America with his o -the-cu , improvisational style that leaves crowds not only wanting more but

The Marion Theatre will host its Sensory-Friendly Saturdays on January 7 with the hit movie A Bug’s Life at 12pm. Films included in the series are shown downstairs in adequate lighting and at a safe volume for all sensory-sensitive guests. Guests can feel comfortable standing up, walking around, dancing, singing and taking any necessary breaks during the lm. Tickets to the lms are $5 and can be purchased at mariontheatre.org

FREE FIRST SATURDAY

JANUARY 7

Visit the Appleton Museum of Art from 10am-5pm for Free First Saturday. Enjoy free admission all day to see the permanent collection, special exhibitions or to make art in the Artspace. Big Lee’s BBQ food truck will be on-site from 11am-2pm. appletonmuseum.org

OCALA ODDITIES MARKET

JANUARY 8

New year, new oddities! 2023 is going to be an amazing year and the best way to kick it o is by surrounding yourself with some amazing oddities at the Ocala Downtown Market from 11am3pm, featuring over 70 vendors, food trucks and entertainment. (352) 875-4224

THEATRE IN THE COLONIAL PERIOD JANUARY 11

The College of Central Florida’s innovative educational series, “Patriot Project: Bringing History to Life,” continues with “Theatre in the Colonial Period” from 12:30-1:30pm at the CF Webber Center. The Patriot Project lectures are free and open to the public. Light refreshments and event giveaways will be provided. CF.edu/PatriotProject

COFFEE WITH THE CONDUCTOR: ITALIAN IMPRESSIONS JANUARY 13

Enjoy a cup of co ee with Matthew Wardell, Ocala Symphony conductor, at the Marion Theatre as he leads an in-depth discussion about the pieces and composers that will be featured at the Ocala Symphony’s “Italian Impressions” concert. Co ee with the conductor is free, and you do not need a ticket to the concert to attend. reillyartscenter.com

PRIDE OF THE PASTURE STOCK SHOW

JANUARY 13-14

The Pasture Stock Show, hosted by Town & Country 4-H Club in Marion County, is open to all youth exhibitors in Florida and will feature unique breed divisions, showmanship

SPRING INTO THE ARTS

THIS WINTER AND SPRING CHECK OUT ONE OF OUR REGIONAL THEATERS FOR SOME TOP-NOTCH ENTERTAINMENT OPTIONS. FROM THEATRICAL PRODUCTIONS AND CONCERTS TO SYMPHONY ORCHESTRAS AND COMEDIANS, THE OPTIONS ARE ALMOST ENDLESS!

WRITTEN AND COMPILED BY KARIN FABRY-CUSHENBERY

THE ELABORATE ENTRANCE OF CHAD DEITY

JAN. 27-FEB.12 | THE HIPPODROME

Written by Kristo er Diaz and directed by Alberto Bonilla, this production is described as a “big, brash, outrageous, brilliantly written, astonishingly realized, altogether electric play about smashing stereotypes and wrestling with the American Dream.” Mace is a pro wrestler who teams up with a young Indian man he meets from Brooklyn. Mace sees his chance to make it big, but will he able to take that shot? This comedic look at professional wrestling and geopolitics features dazzling hip-hop language mixed with a “fresh, funny, high-octane air raising pertinent questions about racial identify and pop culture in our society.” Showtimes are Wednesdays and Thursdays at 7pm, Fridays at 8pm, Saturdays at 2pm and 8pm, and Sundays at 2pm. thehipp.org

EARTH, WIND AND FIRE TRIBUTE

FEB. 2

| REILLY ARTS CENTER

The Earth, Wind & Fire Tribute Band, based in Maryland, tours up and down the east coast and will be making a stop at the Reilly this winter. You’re going to want to grab your tickets now, because they are certain to sell out. Earth, Wind and Fire was one of the most popular bands of the ‘70s, ‘80s and ‘90s, and this tribute band brings their greatest hits to life, including “September,” “Sing a Song,” “Boogie Wonderland,” “That’s The Way of the World” and more. The show runs approximately 90 minutes. reillyartscenter.com

STOMP

FEB.

3 | PHILLIPS CENTER

STOMP is an unforgettable experience for all ages. The eight-member troupe brings percussion instruments to life using everything but actual percussion instruments. Garbage cans, brooms, poles, lighters, hubcaps, it’s all fair game. The Boston Globe says, “If you haven’t seen STOMP, GO! If you have seen it, take someone and share the pleasure!” STOMP is an international sensation that has earned many awards and has appeared on dozens of national television shows. This high-energy production is guaranteed to get your toes tapping and your heart pounding. There is no intermission in the production, and the run time is approximately 100 minutes. Showtime is 7:30pm, and the cost is $20 for UF students and $45-$75 for others. performingarts.ufl.edu

STOMP

photo courtesy of UF Performing Arts

HOTEL CALIFORNIA: A SALUTE TO THE EAGLES

MAR. 7-8 | ORANGE BLOSSOM OPRY Hotel California: A Salute to the Eagles is the most successful and longest running Eagles tribute show. and it’s the only one to have earned “O cial Authorization” to perform music from the Eagles’ catalog of music. This salute to the Eagles accurately reproduces some of the greatest hits from one of America’s most iconic bands, all while including their own spirited originality.

Showtime is 7pm both evenings, and prices range from $41-$56. obopry.com

HELLO, DOLLY

MAR. 17-APR. 9 | SONNETAG THEATRE AT THE ICEHOUSE THEATRE

Hello, Dolly! is a 1964 musical with music and lyrics by Jerry Herman. The show follows Dolly Gallagher Levi, a determined matchmaker who finds her way to Yonkers, New York, to find a match for the stingy “well-known unmarried half-a-millionaire,” Horace Vandergelder. Hello, Dolly! made its Broadway debut in 1964 and has won 10 Tony Awards, including Best Musical. The show has become one of the most prominent theater hits in history, with four Broadway revivals, international success and thousands of renditions performed throughout the world. The production was even made into a motion picture film in 1969 and won three Academy Awards, including Best Score of a Motion Picture. icehousetheatre.com

THE SHINING LIVES

MAR. 31-APR. 29 | THE SHARON STUDIO

The year is 1922, and Catherine has joined Pearl, Charlotte and Frances to work at the

MICHAEL WINSLOW

APR. 26

| CIRCLE SQUARE CULTURAL CENTER

Michael Winslow’s voice, and what it can do, will leave you mesmerized. Does he sing? Nope. He makes sound e ects. Thousands of them! Roaring jets, barking dogs, cell phones, radio noises, musical instruments, you name it, he can probably imitate it. He’s an American actor (you probably best remember him from the Police Academy franchise), beatboxer and comedian, and he’s known as The Man of 10,000 Sound E ects. Michael is known for recreating a Jimi Hendrix rift and reenacting a Star Wars battle scene, all with his vocal chords. Plus, he’s funny with his stand-up routines. Michael is currently collaborating on recordings with Jon Anderson of the group Yes, Run the Jewels and Victor Wooten, and in 2021 he was invited to perform on America’s Got Talent where he advanced to the semi- nals. For more details on Michael and his unique craft, visit michaelwinslowmedia.com. Tickets are priced starting at $31, doors open at 6pm and the show begins at 7pm. csculturalcenter.com

Radium Dial Company. The ladies are charged with painting watch faces with glow-in-thedark paint created from the newly discovered element, radium. Based on a true story, the company pays the women by the watch, encouraging them to make as many watches as possible while disregarding potential risks. Over the next 10 years, the women are plagued with issues that threaten their health. Having become close friends, the trio decides to fight against the company that failed to tell them the risks of working with radioactive material. The story is described as moving but not dreary and tells the story of perseverance, friendship and ultimately justice that inspired a lasting change. Be advised that this show contains adult content and is not intended for children. Tickets are $35. thesharonstudio.com

CATS

APR.

21-22 | THE SHARON

This musical spectacular brings to life Andrew Lloyd Webber’s record-breaking Cats production. Cats has been translated into 15 languages and has been performed in more than 30 countries. The winner of seven Tony Awards, including Best Musical, Cats features a collection of mesmerizing musical numbers, including “Memory.” The production tells the tale of one magical night when an unusual group of cats gathers for its annual ball to celebrate and choose which cat will be reborn. The costumes, music and mood of

this production are a certain crowd pleaser. thevillagesentertainment.com

NEWSIES

MAY 4-24 | OCALA CIVIC THEATRE

Extra, extra! Read all about it! The local newsboys have gone on strike to demand better working conditions. Their battle cry is “Unite to ght for what’s right,” but will their brave (some say foolish) actions help or hurt them? This fun production is lled with wonderful singing and dancing as the “newsies” share their own story with the world. Ticket prices and show times will vary. ocalacivictheatre.com

BOEING BOEING

MAY 5-21 | MELON PATCH

PLAYERS

This 1960’s French farce was adapted for the English stage and tells the tale of Iothario Bernard, a stylish Parisian who thinks he has the best of the best… ancées in Italy, Germany and America, each one being a capable and beautiful airline hostess whom he spends time with during their work layovers. Bernard keeps “one up, one down, and one pending” until schedule changes and airline woes bring all three to his apartment in Paris… at the same time.

Tickets are $10 for students with a valid student ID and $22 for adults. Showtimes are 7pm on Fridays and Saturdays and 2pm on Sundays. melonpatchplayers.org

Micheal Winslow photo courtesy of Circle Square Cultural Center

JAN

REILLY ARTS CENTER

Mamma Mia! The Ocala Symphony Orchestra takes a tour of Italy with this special program conducted by Maestro Raymond Chobaz, the Ocala Symphony Principal Guest Conductor. Audiences will enjoy works by Rossini and Respighi and a special performance by Arnold Irchai, the Ocala Symphony’s principal bassoonist with Nina Rota’s Concerto for Bassoon and Orchestra. When this musical feast is over, you’ll be speaking Italian all the way home! Get tickets today by visiting reillyartscenter.com

TICKETS PLEASE

INNINGS FESTIVAL

MARCH 18-19

RAYMOND JAMES STADIUM GROUNDS, TAMPA

TAYLOR SWIFT

APRIL 13-15

RAYMOND JAMES STADIUM, TAMPA

JANET JACKSON

APRIL 19

AMWAY CENTER, ORLANDO

ED SHEERAN

MAY 20

RAYMOND JAMES STADIUM, TAMPA

WELCOME TO ROCKVILLE MAY 18-21

DAYTONA INTERNATIONAL SPEEDWAY

LUKE COMBS

JULY 8

RAYMOND JAMES STADIUM, TAMPA

THOMAS RHETT

SEPTEMBER 15

VYSTAR VETERANS MEMORIAL ARENA, JACKSONVILLE SEPTEMBER 16

AMWAY CENTER, ORLANDO

ZAC BROWN BAND NOVEMBER 3-4

MIDFLORIDA CREDIT UNION AMPHITHEATRE AT THE FL

STATE FAIRGROUNDS, TAMPA

LOCAL LIVE &

THE ISAACS

JAN. 27 | ORANGE

BLOSSOM OPRY

Playing their own acoustic instruments and joined by other band members, The Isaacs’ musical style has been in uenced by many genres of music, including bluegrass, rhythm and blues, folk, country, contemporary, acoustic and Southern gospel.

CLASSIC ALBUMS LIVE: FLEETWOOD MAC –RUMOURS

FEB. 3 | REILLY ARTS CENTER

Experience Classic Albums LIVE as they perform the music of Fleetwood Mac’s Rumours —note for note, cut for cut!

AN EVENING WITH EMMYLOU HARRIS

FEB. 19 | THE SHARON L. MORSE PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

A 14-time Grammy winner and Billboard Century Award recipient, Emmylou Harris’ contribution as a singer and songwriter spans 40 years. She has recorded more than 25 albums and has lent her talents to countless fellow artists’ recordings.

HOLLYWOOD NIGHTS: THE BOB SEGER

EXPERIENCE

FEB. 24 | CIRCLE SQUARE CULTURAL CENTER

Hollywood Nights The Bob Seger Experience is the ultimate tribute to Bob Seger and the Silver Bullet Band. This nine-piece New Jerseybased powerhouse has set out to recreate everything about Bob and his music right down to the smallest detail.

Photo courtesy of Ocala Symphony Orchestra

FOR THE CHILDREN

NEW CHARITABLE GROUP AIMS TO HELP OUR COMMUNITY’S FOSTER FAMILIES.

RONALD W. WETHERINGTON, SOCIAL EDITOR

Asense of community depends on a shared culture and shared beliefs. But what about sports?

Speci cally, for this group, that sport is golf.

Golf is the tie that binds a group of enthusiasts at the Country Club of Ocala Turnpike Cup. Modeled after the Ryder Cup, the Turnpike Cup group, headed by founder Bill Searcy, recently held a memorable dinner at the downtown Cantina Tex-Mex restaurant. Dinner was followed by a fun awards show modeled after a late-night talk show with videos, mini-movies and live interviews. The awards show was held in the Magnolia Room at the downtown Lodge Craft Pub and Eatery. Jackson Reed was the writer, director and producer of the awards show, which resonated with laughter.

“The Turnpike Cup is all about friends, competition and our community,” says Bill Searcy. “We are going to make a di erence to a lot of people in the Ocala area. We are proud of what we have done so far, but we have only just begun.”

The dinner and awards show were a fundraiser for Foster Florida Ocala. Over 20,000 children are in foster care in the state of Florida, and many are traumatized by life’s challenges. The mission of Foster Florida Ocala is to empower families on the frontlines of foster care by mobilizing and equipping their communities to support them. Events, giveaways, sports scholarships, childcare and so much more are all areas where Foster Florida Ocala makes a di erence. Each year the largest events are the Easter egg hunt, pool party, back-to-school bash and Christmas extravaganza.

Foster Florida Ocala is the local chapter for Foster Florida, which is a non-pro t organization. You can learn more about them on their Facebook page. To make a much-appreciated donation, visit foster orida.org/donate.

KIM GIOVANNELLI, ELLEN GUASCO, HILARY GILBERT & YVETTE ROBLES

JULIE HARKEMA, SHERI CRENSHAW, AMY GIBBONEY & SHANNON GROW

TINA VILLELLA, LAUREN MAIN & MELANIE SEARCY

JAMES & HOLLIE POWELL, SHANNON & RICK GROW

MATT VILLELLA, ROB MAIN, ROBERT ROBLES & BILL SEARCY

ROB & LAUREN MAIN

STUART SAVOY & NIC GILBERT

AMY HILL

MATT & KIM GIOVANNELLI, KYLE MCCLARY

BILL SEARCY

WE ARE GOING TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE TO A LOT OF PEOPLE IN THE OCALA AREA. WE ARE PROUD OF WHAT WE HAVE DONE SO FAR, BUT WE HAVE ONLY JUST BEGUN.

BILL SEARCY, TURNPIKE CUP FOUNDER

TENNIS, ANYONE?

THE OCALA TENNIS ASSOCIATION PRIDES ITSELF ON PROVIDING QUALITY TENNIS OPPORTUNITIES TO OCALA AND BEYOND.

WRITTEN BY KARIN FABRY-CUSHENBERY

Everyone knows that exercise is the perfect way to improve your health and well-being. And, as it turns out, a new study published in the Mayo Clinic Proceedings and completed by the Copenhagen City Heart Study found that playing tennis can add nearly 10 years to your life. And it’s never been easier to get started. The Ocala Tennis Association (OTA) is here to help.

The OTA is a nonpro t organization whose members are proponents of the sport of tennis and its growth in the greater Ocala community. The organization evolved from the former Ft. King Women’s Tennis Association, which was organized more than 40 years ago, and now boasts more than 150 members.

“The mission is to support, develop and promote tennis in our community,” says Marianne Marcoux.

The organization caters to four groups with various events throughout the year, including juniors who are 18 and under, adult beginners, adult members of the OTA and the community at large.

MIX IT UP AT THE VALENTINES ROUND ROBIN

FEB. 11 | FT. KING TENNIS COURTS

The cost is $15 per person. Sign up with a partner. This is a mixed doubles event (men/women) team. The event will include round robin play and ra es, and teams are asked to dress in their favorite Cupid attire.

“Most of our events are held at the Fort King Tennis Center,” says Marianne. “But we also support and promote tennis events that take place at the private clubs like Golden Ocala and the Country Club of Ocala.”

One way to get involved in the organization is to sign up for the Love 2 Learn/Love 2 Play adult beginner program. This six-week program runs in eight-week cycles and includes topnotch instruction and clinics followed by six weeks of play time. The next Love 2 Learn program begins on January 11. On January 14, though, 2022 graduates of the program are invited to a round robin.

“This will give the new players contacts to continue to play, join or captain teams and [meet] others who love to play tennis,” says Leigh Chak.

For the junior group, the association provides scholarship opportunities, tournaments, hosts high school team events, junior round robin tennis, plus after school and summer camps. An invite will go out to high school tennis players to participate in the upcoming Boys’ and Girls’ Varsity Jamboree on February 4.

“The kids will take part in clinics taught by several tennis pros, as well as run drills and learn strategies of the game,” says Marianne. “Then they will play in a mixed round robin format. It’s a great way to meet fellow tennis players.”

“I think everyone should be playing tennis,” says Leigh. “It’s a wonderful way to be physically active and meet new friends. Tennis allows you to make a lot of connections, and it’s a way for an adult to become a part of a team—not a lot of sports o er that for adults.”

For adults who aren’t active members, the group focuses on community outreach by hosting events such as the proposed family carnival day.

“We bring out rackets and balls, and the

pros come to provide a fun, family day of tennis,” says Marianne.

To become a member of the association, it’s just $15, and it’s a great way to support and advocate for local tennis in and around the greater Ocala area, plus it allows access to members-only events, including social mixers.

“We always welcome new members,” says Leigh. “If you’re interested in learning more about tennis or supporting tennis, it’s a great way to get involved. Please consider joining, renewing or sponsoring the association by visiting ocalatennisassociation.com.”

You can get your feet wet by attending the 2023 New Year’s Ball Drop event on January 7.

“The event is $15, per person and the fee includes membership into the OTA,” says Beth Arms. “It will be a great, fun celebration, and we hope to see you there.”

OCALA TENNIS ASSOCIATION ocalatennisassociation.com.

To register for a Love 2 Learn/Love 2 Play program, visit http://bit.ly/L2LJAN23 Register for the Jan. 14 event at: https:// bit.ly/L2RoundRobin23.com

FLOWER POWER

OCALA CAMELLIA SOCIETY SHOW & PLANT SALE

JAN. 28-29 | SILVER SPRINGS STATE PARK

The Ocala Camellia Society presents its annual camellia show on Saturday, January 28 and Sunday, January 29. Members of the public are invited to both attend the show and enter their own blooms; admission and entry for owers are free. For new exhibitors, experienced club members will be available to help sort, name and place owers for judging. Dozens of exhibitors are slated to show o hundreds of camellia owers, competing for top honors and cash prizes. Entry is free.

Show entries will be accepted from 7-10am on Saturday. The show will open to the public for viewing from 1-5 pm and again on Sunday from 9 am-4pm. In addition, camellia plants for sale will be available on both days starting at 9am and comes from a regional grower that provides dozens of varieties especially suited to growing for this region.

“We’re back at the Silver Springs ballroom,

which has been remodeled,” says Ann Greenwood, Ocala Camellia Society club president. “It’s a great venue, and we’re very happy to be able to present another ower show. Camellias are an easy-to-grow evergreen perennial that stands up to blistering Florida summers as well as our cold spells. A wonderful characteristic is that camellias in our area begin blooming in the fall and continue throughout the winter, when few other plants are in ower. We hope people will be inspired by the beautiful blooms at the show and add camellias to their own landscape.”

The Ocala Camellia Society meets on the rst Sunday of each month, September through March at 2pm, at the United Way of Ocala Community Room. Their meetings have guest speakers on a variety of gardening-related topics and subjects of particular interest to camellia growers.

Find the Ocala Camellia Society on Facebook for more information on the club and the show and plant sale.

OCALA TAYTAY PARTY

MAY

13,

FOR FUN

9PM | NOMA BLACK BOX AT THE REILLY ARTS CENTER

The Reilly Arts Center is excited to host this Taylor Swift inspired dance party, featuring ra es of Taylor merchandise and select signed merchandise at the end of the night. This themed party is Taylor-made for ultimate fans who are over 18 years of age. Surrounded by friends and Swifties, you’ll dance the night away singing along to every song in the NOMA Black Box. This will not be a seated event. Learn more and purchase tickets at reillyartscenter.com.

Photos courtesy of University

Photo by BIll Down

a florida winter warmerland

scenic rivers, crystal-clear springs, lakes teeming with wildlife—our area’s waterways are ready and waiting to play host to our outdoor adventures, no matter the time of year. And with Ocala/Marion County recently being ranked No. 7 in the United State for paddling cities, according to gorp.com, it’s becoming increasingly clear that our area is the perfect spot to get onto the water.

So, whether you’re a newbie kayaker or a seasoned pro looking for your next SUP adventure, we’ve got the rundown on all the best spots, how to get involved, unexpected outings and tours, and even details on bucket list, multi-day trips.

Paddling photo by Emergent Media, Manatee photo by Carol Grant, both courtesy of Visit Florida

As Floridians, we’re geographically fortunate. While our northern neighbors are shoveling snow and spending their days waiting for warmer weather, we’re able to enjoy the great outdoors all year-round.

Written by Melissa Peterson

go with a group

As one of Florida’s most active paddling groups, the Marion County Aquaholics Paddlers Group is made up of singles and families of all ages and skill levels, from novice to expert. Started in 2001, incorporated in 2003 and intended for all those who enjoy paddling, you can regularly nd Aquaholics members paddling numerous rivers, streams, creeks, runs, lakes and coastal waters all over Central Florida.

President Chris Spontak joined the club in 2012 because he enjoyed the company and the places they were paddling.

“People join [the group] for safety, companionship and free shuttling when necessary for a downstream trip,” he says. “Also, we go to many wild places that most people would never nd or could get lost on.”

The group usually paddles each Saturday, morning to midafternoon, and occasionally also takes a weekday trip. Members make suggestions as to where they would like to go.

“We’re based in Ocala, and most trips are within a 40-mile radius and occasionally an 80mile radius,” Chris says. “Some are easy, some medium and some di cult. There are di erent levels of pro ciency among the membership.

“The Silver and Rainbow are always popular,” he continues. “My favorite is Juniper, both downstream and upstream. I personally like the wild places, such as Gum Slough, Bear Creek, Waccasassa/Wild Hog route, Cedar Creek and others.”

For new members, Chris suggests getting your feet wet—literally—at more well-known spots before venturing out to the harder spots.

“Talk to people at launch sites,” he says, “and consider renting and paddling at places such as Silver Springs to see if you like paddling. Also, know your physical abilities, as this is a physical sport; although, trips can vary from easy to di cult.”

As for the best time of year to head out, Chris agrees there are no bad months to hit the water.

“We are located in the most spring laden place on the planet,” Chris says. “The 72-degree water makes it cooler in summer and warmer in winter, so we paddle almost all year, with only a very few weather cancellations. And we do see some manatees during the cooler weather.”

Membership is $10 per month for singles and $15 per month for families. Club shuttles are free, and the group has two club picnics per year. When not on the water, the Aquaholics take part in civic activities related to the conservation and preservation of our waterways and springs. The group’s o cially adopted river is the Ocklawaha with scheduled cleanups to help keep the river pristine.

Visit mcaquaholics.com for more information.

a unique perspective

Where in Florida can you paddle through a canyon? Only right here in Ocala!

The Canyons Zip Line and Adventure Park o ers a one-and-a-half hour scenic paddling tour through Big Cli Canyon on Lost Spring Lake. The tour is a new way to experience the most unique property in Florida.

“What makes it a di erent kind of tour is that you are looking up at cli s,” says Traci Walker, president and owner of The Canyons. “What is normally only experienced in states like Colorado can be seen right here in Florida.”

The Kayak and Explore is a relaxing and scenic lake tour that will have you paddling your way under zip lines and around immense cli walls. As you peacefully glide across the springfed lake, the tour’s knowledgeable guide will

point out fossils and other interesting artifacts from long ago that make the property unlike any other in Florida.

The tour price is $45.99 per person and features easy-in-and-out access to your kayak thanks to The Canyons’ unique dry dock systems that eliminates the possibility of the kayak turning over while boarding. Reservations can be made via the website.

Visit zipthecanyons.com for more information.

spots at home

One of the easiest ways to get out on the water in Marion County is to simply visit one of our county’s great parks, and Sara Lambert, community engagement coordinator with Marion County Parks and Recreation, is here to help with all the details.

“Some of the most popular spots under the Marion County Parks and Recreation auspice include Ray Wayside, Blue Run of Dunnellon Park, KP Hole and Gores Landing,” she says. “Ray Wayside and Gores Landing are excellent launch sites for kayakers. Ray Wayside gives you access to venture into either the Ocklawaha or Silver River, both of which are prime locations for manatees this time of year. KP Hole is renowned for its paddling and is ideal for those looking to kayak or paddleboard, allowing

Rainbow Springs State Park photo by Jason Frankle and Scott Wesson, courtesy of Visit Florida

day to day and trip to trip, ranging from 7 to 21 miles, and paddlers have ranged in age from 8 to 80—some with decades of experiences in paddling and others who are new to the sport.

The trip guides are volunteers and experienced paddlers with local knowledge. The organization also uses professional guides depending on the trip. They have two operations specialists and trip leader trainees on sta , and the trips are also supported by the gear transport managers.

“While the lengths may sound intimidating, we do go with the ow,” says Janice. “Most trips are on rivers where you have a bit of a push. We have safety boats on the water and have pre-paddled the routes, so it is a safe way to paddle a place you might not go by yourself. We provide meals, we carry your gear and you get to learn about the area where you are paddling from local experts.”

Visit paddle orida.org for more information.

an eco adventure

If you’re up for a bit of a day trip, FloridaAdventurer o ers paddling trips out of Titusville and Cocoa Beach, with an emphasis on bioluminescence tours, manatee and dolphin sightings, and sunset and rocket launch viewing, all from clear kayaks for an unprecedented view. The company also o ers raft tours, which are ideal for seniors, kids and large families, along with their regular sit-on-top kayaks.

“Manatee and dolphin tours have us on the Indian River in the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge,” says Josh Myers, president of Florida Adventurer. “Sunset tours have us paddling around Kiwanis Island and the Ulumay

Wildlife Sanctuary or the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge to see an amazing sunset from the water. We will also see manatee and dolphin, endangered species of birds and other wildlife.”

However, if you’re going to choose one tour, the bioluminescence tour is the one to book. On the sunset with bioluminescence combo tour, you’ll launch 30 minutes prior to sunset while transitioning to darkness so you can enjoy the bioluminescence activity.

“Bioluminescent tours take place yearround,” says Josh. “We have summertime bioluminescence, which will cause the water to light up a brilliant neon blue when we touch the water or when anything moves thru the water. This can only be seen in ve places on Earth, year after year in the same location. It can sporadically pop up all over the world if conditions are right, but Florida is the only place inside the continental United State that we can see this every year in the same location.

“Our comb jelly sh bioluminescence tours depart November through April,” Josh continues. “These organisms inundate our lagoon as soon

as the water cools [and] do not sting. When we pick up the jellies they will emit a bright neon teal light, right in the palm of your hand.”

The best time to view the bioluminescence is three days after a full moon through one day after the new moon. This 13-day window represents a timeframe when there is no moon in the sky. Florida Adventurer guides are avid outdoorsmen, most of whom have completed the Florida Master Naturalist programs and are able to o er a detailed and informative tour. The manatee and dolphin tours depart every day of the year.

“Since we operate under a special educational permit issued by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife, we are allowed to interact with the manatees in a pre-prescribed way so as to educate the public about these animals,” says Josh. “The Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge is a safe haven for these amazing mammals, and the eco tour guides are constantly on the water. The biologists use our eyes for any changes in behaviors, sightings and deaths.”

Taking a tour with an accredited guide/ company o ers rst-hand insight and information on these animals and the areas in which they live.

“The Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge is the sixth most visited refuge in the country,” says Josh. “It has the most bio-diverse eco system in all of North America. I’ve paddled many places, and in my opinion, no place comes close to home. It really is a truly amazing place.”

Visit orida-adventurer.com for more information.

Paddling photo courtesy of Visit Florida

W h e n y o u o r a l o v e d o n e h a s b e e n i n j u r e d i n a n a c c i d e n t , w h o d o y o u t u r n t o ? W e b e l i e v e t h a t l o c a l m a t t e r s . W e b e l i e v e y o u r f a m i l y m a t t e r s . W e b e l i e v e y o u r e x p e r i e n c e m a t t e r s . O u r t e a m o f e x p e r t s h a v e d e c a d e s o f e x p e r i e n c e i n b o t h p e r s o n a l i n j u r y a n d i n s u r a n c e . L e t u s f i g h t f o r t h e c o m p e n s a t i o n y o u d e s e r v e . W e a r e h e r e t o h e l p y o u h e a l a n d r e c o v e r s o y o u c a n g e t b a c k t o t h e t h i n g s y o u l o v e .

F O R Y O U R F A M I L Y . F O R Y O U .

C A R & T R U C K A C C I D E N T S M O T O R C Y C L E A C C I D E N T S P E R S O N A L I N J U R Y

W R O N G F U L D E A T H S L I P & F A L L D O G B I T E

O F F I C E S I N O C A L A & G A I N E S V I L L E

SOMETHING BUBBLY

WRITTEN BY KARIN FABRY-CUSHENBERY

The concept for the winery’s new sparkling wine collection came about through a collaboration with food and beverage scientists at the University of Florida with a study by UF to determine whether wine drinkers preferred still or sparkling wine. The verdict? Sparkling. As a matter of fact, the wines with any form of CO2 were 100 percent preferred to the still forms of the same, sweeter wine.

“Tasters’ preferences were most reliably associated with whether or not the wine was carbonated,” said Andrew MacIntosh, senior author of the study and an assistant professor in the UF/IFAS food science and human nutrition department in a UF press release.

The study was conducted at the UF/IFAS Sensory Laboratory, where UF students and members of the public participate in taste panels that evaluate consumer preferences for foods and drinks. In the study, researchers added four levels of carbonation to several blueberry and muscadine wines from several Florida wineries, including Island Grove. Researchers discovered that although testers preferred the bubbles, the level of bubbliness wasn’t as de nitive.

“That’s good news for wineries because they can tailor the level of carbonation to their needs and still provide a value-added product for the consumer,” said MacIntosh.

This isn’t the rst time Island Grove Winery has collaborated with the University of Florida.

“We’ve been working with UF to move our business forward for decades,” says Island Grove Winery General Manager Sarah Aschliman. “Going back to UF’s work to establish a blueberry industry in Florida through the UF/IFAS blueberry plant breeding program with southern

highbush varieties, we have been growing blueberries for 30-plus years with their guidance and partnership. Now, with the carbonation research, we are excited for this new product line opportunity and expansion.

“This study was key for us,” adds Sarah. “Finding out how people respond to the carbonated product is essential for moving forward with any new product lines.”

Chase Marden, head winemaker and one of the owners/founders of Island Grove Wine Company, re ects on the process.

“This is the rst time we have sparkled our wines on a commercial level—and I’m into it,” he says. “I feel like our wines have always had intense avor, but this bubbly is over the top. The taste and smell are ampli ed by the CO2, and it really brings out the fruits of our labor!”

At the time the study was being conducted at UF, Whole Foods reached out to Island Grove looking for a Florida winery to create a

sparkling line. Whole Foods worked closely with the Island Grove team to select the varieties, tastes and consumer packaging that would be the best t for their markets.

“We are so excited to see this product line in Florida Whole Foods,” says Sarah. “The product is de nitely an extension of what we have created in the past and puts a whole new twist on the fruit line o erings on shelf.”

Look for the new line at retail stores in late January. The Sparkling Berry Sangria will be available in many retail outlets, and the Sparkling Peach Moscato, Sparkling Blueberry Moscato and the Sparkling Strawberry Moscato will be available at Whole Foods in Florida. All items are currently available on the winery’s website for shipping directly to consumers.

ISLAND GROVE WINE COMPANY islandgrovewinecompany.com

FOUNDED IN 2010, THE ISLAND GROVE WINE COMPANY IN NEARBY HAWTHORNE IS KNOWN FOR ITS DELICIOUS BLUEBERRY WINES, INCLUDING THEIR LONG-TIME FAVORITES KINDA DRY AND SORTA SWEET. NOW, MORE THAN A DECADE LATER, THEY HAVE TAKEN THE LEAP INTO SPARKLING WINES, WITH A LITTLE HELP FROM THE UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA AND WHOLE FOODS.

Photo courtesy of Island Grove Wine Company

Experts