352
PREVIEW
OCALA’S GUIDE TO ENTERTAINMENT, RECREATION & FAMILY FUN APR 2020
Sumamtieorns
Dreamc while +STAYING BUSY
STAYING HOME
EQUESTRIAN ENTHUSIASTS 42+/- ACRES Private gated community. 2019 home is serene, modern, and contemporary. Spacious, open and bright and conducive to both grand entertaining and fun-filled family gatherings. Spectacular features include a modern granite-built center island in kitchen with counter seating. Kitchen, dining area and living room with beautiful fireplace, sliding glass doors all open and overlook the spacious lanais, pool and green pastures. Sitting high on its own private knoll is a horseman’s dream of a stable featuring 9 stalls, A/C office, tack room, and half bath. Property also features a stately irrigated arena, paddocks, maintenance building with hay storage plus additional A/C multi-purpose building. Close to Marjorie Harris Car Cross Florida Horse Park and Florida Greenways & Trails.
CLASSIC OAKS - BORDERS FLORIDA GREENWAYS AND TRAILS Gated entrance welcomes you to this beautiful 140 +/- acre farm where you will appreciate the Granddaddy Oaks that lead you through the lush green paddocks & winding drive as you approach the office, barn and residence. Home features an elegant chef ’s kitchen, beverage area, family room & dining area. Family room, with stacked stone fireplace, wood beam ceilings, offers views of the farm from the sliding glass doors. Screen enclosed lanai is perfect for relaxing or entertaining while watching the horses or cattle in the paddocks. Guest/employee home is a 3/2 home. 2-car garage. Center aisle stable: 18 stalls, 2 offices, laundry area, tack room, feed room plus wash bay. Two round pens, European free walker, equine swim lane, lit arena, cattle shoot, air release for roping, pen for working cattle plus viewing room. Two equipment buildings: 4 bays plus A/C storage room area & an open 8 bay pole building.
Past performance is a measure of future success, and Joan Pletcher’s record speaks for itself. With sales totaling over $6,800,000 and $7,512,000 in pending properties in 2020, it’s easy to see that Joan is a passionate, knowledgeable Real Estate expert who puts the cares and concerns of her clients first. Contact Joan today to see what your home is worth and why now is the best time to list.
Welcome to a higher level of realty. For these and other properties, visit JoanPletcher.com for information, videos and more choices. Call or Text: 352.266.9100 | 352.804.8989 | joan@joanpletcher.com | joanpletcher.com
YOUR WEDDING BARN ESTATE, WHERE RUSTIC MEETS ELEGANCE This 10+-acre estate offers a modern farmhouse, pool and hot tub, gazebo with firepit, woodworking shop, feed barn and six paddocks, plus an income-producing wedding area. The 4-bedroom, 3-bath custom home includes a country kitchen featuring stainless steel appliances, double oven, center island, granite counters and cast-iron sinks. The floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace is the centerpiece of the family room with wood-beam ceilings, hardwood floors and French doors leading to a screen-enclosed lanai. The barn was built with Cypress tongue and groove wood and is currently used as a wedding venue with dance floor, bar area and air-conditioned bridal suites, which could be converted to stalls.
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Please be aware that news changes quickly and events may be canceled or postponed. Check with the venue or organizer ahead of time to verify that an event is still taking place. Visit us on social media for updates and alternatives to going out during this time of social distancing.
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CONTENTS // APR 2020 8 // T H IN GS TO DO IN T H E 3 52
Virtual tours and activities to stay sharp and keep you busy.
WATCH 10 // A VIRT UA L VEN UE
Ocalaʼs Reilly Arts Center is offering a series of online productions during this time of social distancing.
12 // S H OW US YOUR S ELFIE
Reader selfies from around town at some of our favorite events.
14 // BIN G E-WO RT H Y
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16 // CO N C ERT S P OT LIG H T
Last-minute tickets and local shows you wonʼt want to miss.
EXPLORE 18 // T H E G RE AT ESCA P E
Lake Weir, Eatonʼs Beach and Carney Island Recreation and Conservation Area are the perfect escape from the stressors of everyday life.
20 // DAT E N IG H T UN DER T H E STA RS
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Looking for the perfect book series to read? Film for movie night or show to binge? We have all the new, binge-worthy titles here.
Looking for a different spin on a night out? Plan a date thatʼs not far from your front door.
21 // A S E A O F SURVIVO RS
34
FEATURES
23 // VACAY DAY DRE A MIN G
Whether youʼre ready to start planning your summer travel or you just want to daydream about not being stuck inside your house, here are a few vacay locales to get you started.
28 // G ET BUSY
25 boredom busters for when youʼre stuck at home.
Throughout Florida sea turtles are making their way out of the ocean and onshore to lay their precious eggs. Find out how to protect them.
22 // A N IMA LS O N PA R A DE
Check out these virtual options for exploring the world of animals without leaving your home.
CRAVE 32 // G ET T H E BLUES
Make plans to visit one of these farms where you can pick fresh berries right from the bush.
34 // PASSWO RD, P LE AS E
Stepping into The Thirsty Cobbler in downtown Ocala is like taking a step back into the 1920s.
3 6 // T H E LO CA L FL AVO R
Restaurant news, menu changes and opening details to keep your palate up to date..
Through May 24
From Spain to the U.S.
This exhibition has been organized by the Museum of International Folk Art, Santa Fe, New Mexico and is circulating through GuestCurator Traveling Exhibitions. This exhibition is sponsored by Fine Arts For Ocala and CAMPUS USA Credit Union.
Museum, Appleton Store and Artspace Hours: Tuesday-Saturday: 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Sunday: noon–5 p.m. 4333 E. Silver Springs Blvd. | AppletonMuseum.org
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APR ‘20
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THINGS TO DO IN THE 352 : VIRTUAL TOURS AND ACTIVITIES TO KEEP BUSY IN THE 352 AND BEYOND.
TOP
1
STAY & PLAY WITH OCALA RECREATION & PARKS // LIKE “OCALA RECREATION AND PARKS” ON FACEBOOK
Through a series of Facebook Live videos, Ocalaʼs Recreation and Parksʼ pros are providing opportunities to stay connected to our community. Past videos have included “Meet the Critters” and “Critter Facts,” virtual tours of the Fort King National Historic Landmark, Quick Fitness and Senior Fitness, Grossology for the kids, easy homemade science projects, how to make bead bracelets and more. To get involved with the videos simply like the Ocala Recreation and Parks Facebook page and turn on notifications. Your phone will alert you when the department goes live at 10am, 11am and 1pm. Pick up a Play Pack that includes the materials needed to follow along at home with crafts and projects. Packs can be picked up at the E.D. Croskey Recreation Center, the Lillian Bryant Recreation Center and the Ocala Recreation & Parkʼs Administration Building on NE Eighth Ave. Bingo cards may be picked up at the Eighth Avenue Adult Activity Center. For more information, call (352) 368-5517.
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YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK VIRTUAL TOUR // VIRTUALYOSEMITE.ORG
Take an online tour of Californiaʼs Sierra Nevada region to explore some of the areaʼs most iconic landmarks, including Yosemite Falls, the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias and the top of Half Dome. The tour offers breathtaking views of the park complete with sound. Fun Fact: Yosemite is most often thought of as the birthplace of rock climbing for sport.
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BRITISH MUSEUM VIRTUAL TOUR // ARTSANDCULTURE.GOOGLE.COM (SEARCH BRITISH MUSEUM)
THREE
As the worldʼs oldest national public museum, the British Museum in London is home to many renowned exhibits and famous objects. Roam the halls of the museum and check out collection items, including the Parthenon sculptures, Egyptian mummies and the Rosetta Stone. Fun Fact: The British Museum is older than the entire United States of America. The museum was founded in 1753, and America was founded on July 4, 1776.
THE GUGGENHEIM MUSEUM VIRTUAL TOUR // GUGGENHEIM.ORG/PLAN-YOUR-VISIT/GUGGENHEIM-FROM-HOME This New York City museum is offering tours of the facilityʼs beautiful architecture and all of its galleries. Using the Street View feature of Google Arts & Culture, peruse through the collections, including The Fullness of Color: 1960s Painting, sculptures by Constantin Brancusi, the Thannhauser Collection and more. Fun Fact: A walk up the ramp to the front door of the museum is a 1/4-mile trek and is 1,416 feet long.
SISTINE CHAPEL VIRTUAL TOUR // VISIT MUSEIVATICANI.VA, CLICK THE MAGNIFYING GLASS AND TYPE “VIRTUAL TOUR”
FIVE
OCALA PUBLIC ART VIRTUAL TOURS // OCALA.ONCELL.COM
These virtual tours provided by the City of Ocala and the Ocala Cultural Arts department showcase the areaʼs public art along with a few other surprises. Five tours are available, including a Public Art Tour, three historic tours and one nature tour. Highlights include Fort King National Historic Landmark, Tuscawilla Park Flora and Fauna, an Ocala Public Art Tour and the Historic Ocala Preservation Society Tour. Once you choose a tour, you can click on different stops along the tour to see photos and descriptions of the building or art piece (in both English and Spanish) and also view a map if youʼd like to visit it on your own. Check it out today by visiting ocala.oncell.com.
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Take a virtual stroll through the Sistine Chapelʼs many rooms, including “Raphaelʼs Rooms,” the “Chiaramonti Museum” and the “Pio Clementino Museum.” The most famous works of art at the chapel include the frescoes by Michelangelo on the ceiling and the west wall behind the alter. Fun Fact: Michelangelo started on his ceiling frescoes in 1508 and finished the masterpieces in 1512.
THE GREAT WALL OF CHINA VIRTUAL TOUR // THECHINAGUIDE.COM/DESTINATION/GREAT-WALL-OF-CHINA
See one of the Seven Wonders of the World in this online tour. Some of the most visited sections of the wall are included in the tour. The Great Wall of Chinaʼs original purpose was to protect the Chinese Empire from the Mongolians and any other invaders. The total length of the wall is 5,500 miles, and today the wall welcomes huge crowds each year. Fun Fact: The Great Wall of China is the largest structure ever built by humans, and it would take roughly 18 months to walk its length.
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REILLY ARTS CENTER DIGITAL SERIES // REILLYARTSCENTER.COM/LIVE
To connect our community during this time of recommended social distancing and to support the artists and event professionals whose livelihoods have been severely impacted by the cancellation of large gatherings, the Reilly Arts Center is sponsoring a series of live online broadcasts. While this service will be free for all to tune, the lineup of local and regional artists and crew will be compensated by the Reilly. The lineup will include pop and classical musicians, bands, actors, dancers, comedians and more. Visit reillyartscenter.com/live for a schedule of broadcasts.
SMITHSONIAN NATIONAL MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY VIRTUAL TOUR // NATURALHISTORY.SI.EDU/VISIT/VIRTUAL-TOUR Enjoy a self-guided, room-by-room tour of one of Americaʼs most beloved museums. You can tour permanent, past and current exhibits, including African Voices, the Bone Hall, the David H. Kochʼs Hall of Fossils—Deep Time and Human Origins. The Sant Ocean Hall and Sea Monsters Unearthed: Life in Angolaʼs Ancient Seas are also included, among many more. Fun Fact: The total number of specimens and artifacts in the museum is close to 146 million.
YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK VIRTUAL TOUR // NPS.GOV/YELL/LEARN/PHOTOSMULTIMEDIA/VIRTUALTOURS.HTM
Explore some of Yellowstoneʼs most famous landmarks, including the Grand Canyon, Mammoth Hot Springs, Mud Volcano, Norris Geyser Basin and Fort Yellowstone. Along the way an abundance of educational information is included. Fun Fact: Yellowstone National Park has almost half of the worldʼs geysers. Just one square mile of the park contains 150 of them—the most famous being Old Faithful.
APR ‘20
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WATCH // EXPLORE // CRAVE
A Virtual Venue Ocala’s Reilly Arts Center is offering a series of online productions to support musicians and industry professionals during this time of social distancing. // B Y M E L I S S A P E T E R S O N
W
ith many events canceled or postponed, the entertainment industry has come to a halt, which has left most entertainers and industry professionals without work, seriously impacting their livelihoods. Thankfully, the Reilly Arts Center is here to help. Starting at the end of March, the Reilly began offering a livestream service in order to help entertainers remain working. Viewers can tune in to the Reillyʼs website for a list of scheduled events, bios GUESTS CAN HELP NOT of all the entertainers and information on ONLY THE REILLY ARTS how they can help CENTER, THE OCALA support the Reillyʼs efforts. Events include SYMPHONY AND OUR performances by local ARTISTS BUT ALL VENUES and regional pop and classical musicians, WEATHER THIS STORM BY bands, actors, DECIDING TO TURN THEIR Professor Silviu Ciulei dancers, comedians who performed an and more. And REFUND INTO A DONATION. exciting assortment although this service -PAMELA CALERO, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR of French and Spanish is free for viewers, the classical guitar pieces artists and crew will be and Flamenco music and was joined by renown compensated by the Reilly for their work. touring violinist—and wife—Aniela Moldovan, “A cancellation of a concert doesnʼt just for exciting tango music. Other livestream affect the venue,” says Matt Wardell, CEO events include performances by the Ocala band and artistic director of the Reilly Arts Center, Left On Broadway, the Greg Snider Jazz Trio, in a press release. “It affects an incredible Gainesvilleʼs clarinetist Dr. Keith Northover downstream environment of artists, theatre and pianist Brian Hargrove, Adam Volpe and professionals and ancillary businesses. the Voltron Collective, Joshua Mazur singing These performances arenʼt just a hobby the music of Broadway, Ocalaʼs Insomniac for professional musicians, sound and light Theatre and members of the Ocala Symphony technicians, and production staff—itʼs their Orchestra. Make sure to visit the website for the livelihood. A concert cannot happen without complete schedule. these people. Weʼre going to do our best for One consideration is the cost it will take to these event professionals, for as long as weʼre put on and pay for these livestream events. able, while also connecting and bringing joy to The Reillyʼs Board of Directors provided an our ʻdistancedʼ community.” initial pool of donations to help launch the The series began on March 20 and featured nationally celebrated flamenco guitarist and UF initiative, and the Marion Cultural Alliance
“
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approved $2,000 in grant funds for the project. Patrons who decided to donate the value of their canceled or postponed tickets back to the Reilly instead of requesting a refund have also contributed. The Reilly estimates that the cost for the streaming series is between $1,500 and $2,500 per event. “One of the hardest aspects of this internally is the request for refunds,” says Pamela Calero, executive director, in a press release. “Guests can help not only the Reilly Arts Center, the Ocala Symphony and our artists but all venues weather this storm by deciding to turn their refund into a donation. This donation will help us bring this program to audiences during a difficult time, ensures the future viability of our venues and ensures our future success.” Reilly Arts Center Livestream Series // Visit reillyartscenter.com/live for a full schedule.
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WATCH // EXPLORE // CRAVE
Sh ow Us Yo ur
S E L F IE !
Out and about around the 352? Send us your selfie shots from any live entertainment or local events and you just might find yourself in our next issue.
Kelly and Lauren Davis
Toms Vivian Bermudez and John @ Bank Street Patio Bar
Chase Patchen @ BSYSL
Britta and Riley Giarrus
Daigle concert Josh, Melissa and Trace Dameron @ Lauren
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so @ Ben Hill Griffin stad
Dave, Jasmine & Lisa Fabry @ Daytona Beach
Car Show
ium
WATCH // EXPLORE // CRAVE
Bill and Melanie Searcy
Angeline, Cory and Connor Williford @ Via Entertainment, Lake Square Mall
Marc and Tyler Rogers with
the Forest baseball money
Michael, Matthew and Mark Plunkett @ Silver Springs State Park
and Rob and Lauren Mai
hat
n @ Country Club of Oca
la’s Couples Tournamen
t
Michele and Mikayla Dan ley, Devon Mills, Kaden and Kurt Danley @ Top Golf
Caleb and Chase @ car show Ty Harris and Larry Hou mard
Want to see your selfie in print? Email your event photos with names and a description to editorial@352preview.com.
@ Maharlika Hall
APR ‘20
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WATCH // EXPLORE // CRAVE
BINGE-WORTHY Looking for the perfect book series to read? Film for movie night or show to binge? Look no further. We have all the new, binge-worthy titles here. // W R I T T E N A N D C O M P I L E D B Y K A R I N F A B R Y- C U S H E N B E R Y
MOVIE NIGHT
Universal took action to make movies currently in theaters available for digital rental at home for the time being. So how does it work? The cost is $10 for a 48hour rental period, and the titles can be found on iTunes, Amazon Prime Video and cable systems like Comcast, which happens to be Universalʼs parent company. Forget the $10 popcorn. Put on your PJs and grab a blanket, instead. Emma (Rated PG) In this newest adaptation of the classic Jane Austen novel, Gwyneth 14
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Paltrow plays the mischievous matchmaker. Emmaʼs attempts at matchmaking cause more problems than love connections. The Invisible Man (Rated R) After staging his suicide, a scientist uses his power to become invisible and stalk and terrorize his exgirlfriend. When the police doubt her story, she realizes she is on her own. The Hunt (Rated R) In a story reminiscent of The Hunger Games, 12 strangers wake up in a clearing with no understanding of whatʼs going on. Ruthless elitists have gathered
at a remote location to hunt the 12 people for sport. They likely didnʼt count on Crystal, one of the hunted, to fight back.
Trolls World Tour (Rated PG, available Apr. 10) This oneʼs for the kiddos. Poppy and Branch learn that there are six troll tribes and that each is devoted to its own type of music—funk, pop, rock, classical, country and techno. When rockers King Thrash and Queen Barb set out to destroy the other types of music, Poppy and Branch try to bring the trolls together and save the music. Imagine the soundtrack with this one!
NEW TO NETFLIX
The following releases are new to Netflix this month. Check online for a complete listing of upcoming titles.
WATCH // EXPLORE // CRAVE
Trolls World Tour image courtesy of universalpictures.com; Extraction image courtesy of Netflix; Seperation Anxiety cover courtesy of harpercollins.com; Dragonslayer (Wings of Fire: Legends) cover courtesy of scholastic.com
Community (Apr. 1) All six seasons of this comedy starring Joel McHale will make an appearance this month. Follow a group of adults trying to navigate their way through Greendale Community College. Coffee & Kareem (Apr. 3) The Officeʼs Ed Helms stars in this comedy about a 12 year old who hires a criminal to scare off his momʼs new boyfriend. Along the way he unwittingly uncovers a crime syndicate and then teams up with said boyfriend to fight the bad guys. Brews Brothers (Apr. 10) This new sitcom series centers around two estranged brothers who start a brewing company. They know a lot about beer but not much about being brothers.
Julieʼs Greenroom Teaches young viewers about performing arts. Hosted by Julie Andrews and featuring Jim Hensonʼs puppet crew. Llama Llama This classic show brings the beloved Llama books to life with great messages for little ones. AGES 5-7 The Magic School Bus Rides Again This fun reboot encourages kids to take an interest in science and nature. Pablo This creative, insightful show for youngsters centers around Pablo, a young boy with autism. Carmen Sandiego Thief Carmen Sandiego is more of a Robin Hood in disguise. She takes historical items to prevent them from being taken by V.I.L.E. operatives before returning them to their rightful owners.
Snicket book series is a must. AGES 13 AND UP Gilmore Girls Introduce your kids to this cult classic tale of a mother and daughterʼs relationship. Stranger Things This drama appeals to lovers of science fiction and features some strange invaders. Adam Ruins Everything This geeky myth-busting show challenges everyday beliefs with facts in a fun, entertaining way.
NETFLIX FOR KIDS
AGES 10-12 The Hollows Netflix calls this a cartoon version of Lost for tweens.
Common Sense Media says the following are ideal shows for viewers Night On Earth of all ages. A docuseries showcasing animals that roam the night. AGES 2-4 Beat Bugs Engaging stories told to the music of A Series of Unfortunate Events This dark, somewhat spooky The Beatles. What parent wouldnʼt adaptation of the classic Lemony love that?
Check out these great reads (or listens) for your young reader.
The following audiobooks are new to the market and worth a listen. The Joy At Work By Marie Kondo and Scott Sonenshein. Read by Brittany Ishibashi and Dan Woren Marie Kondo taught us to find joy at home by ridding our lives of clutter and unnecessary items. Now she helps us find joy at work. Dragonslayer (Wings of Fire: Legends) by Tui T. Sutherland In a world of dragons, humans are easy to forget about. But each of the main characters—Leaf, Wren and Ivy—interact with dragons in ways that could shape the future for both species.
Troll Hunters This action-filled show may have a scare here or there, but the main character has great morals. The InBESTigators This Australian comedy features best friends turned mystery solvers.
JUST FOR KIDS!
LISTEN UP!
AGES 8-9 Dogs This docuseries honors the special relationship between man and manʼs best friend. Plus, cute dogs!
Extraction (Apr. 24) Chris Hemsworth. Need we say more? Just kidding. The God of Thunder stars in this action thriller about a black-market gun for hire who is tasked with rescuing the kidnapped son of a crime war load. Go figure that it would be a tough assignment!
Devoted by Dean Koontz Woody Bookman is an 11-year-old boy who hasnʼt spoken a word. His father died in a freak accident, and Woody believes something evil was the cause of his fatherʼs death and now is coming after he and his mom. An unlikely ally, in the form of Kipp the dog, is tuned in to Woodyʼs thoughts and feelings and sets out to the find the boy before itʼs too late.
Separation Anxiety: A Novel by Laura Zigman This hilarious story centers on Judy, an overworked and underappreciated wife and mother whose life is falling apart. Her teenage son is just that, a teenager, her best friend is dying, she canʼt afford to divorce her pot-addicted husband and she has begun to wear the dog in her sonʼs old baby carrier. The ironic part? Her job is to write self-help articles.
Tyrannosaurus Wrecks by Stuart Gibbs In his latest FunJungle book, Gibbs tells the tale of Teddy Fitzroy as he sets out to solve the mystery of the missing dinosaur skull. The 500-pound skull was found in Teddyʼs backyard and was in the process of being excavated when it disappeared without a trace. Rowley Jeffersonʼs Awesome Friendly Adventure by Jeff Kinney (Apr. 7) If you loved the Wimpy Kid series, check out this fantasy quest by the same author. Rowley and his friend, Garg the Barbarian, as they set out on a quest to save Rolandʼs mom from the White Warlock. APR ‘20
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Concert Spotlight Last-minute tickets and local shows you won’t want to miss. // W R I T T E N & C O M P I L E D B Y M E L I S S A P E T E R S O N
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LOCAL LISTENS
NIGHTTIME TUNES
Tickets are still available for these popular national tours.
Thereʼs plenty to be heard right here in the 352.
Local entertainment at some of your favorite bars and pubs.
Barenaked Ladies St. Augustine Amphitheatre // June 3 The Doobie Brothers MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre at the FL State Fairgrounds, Tampa // June 10 Dailyʼs Place // June 12 Sam Hunt MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre at the FL State Fairgrounds, Tampa // June 12 Mötley Crüe/Def Leppard/Poison/Joan Jett and the Blackhearts TIAA Bank Field, Jacksonville // June 18 Camping World Stadium, Orlando // July 9 The Black Crowes MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre at the FL State Fairgrounds, Tampa // July 1 Sammy Hagar & The Circle/Whitesnake/ Night Ranger MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre at the FL State Fairgrounds, Tampa // July 11 The Weeknd Amway Center, Orlando // July 21 Incubus/311 MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre at the FL State Fairgrounds, Tampa // Aug. 2 Green Day/Fall Out Boy/Weezer TIAA Bank Field, Jacksonville // Aug. 6 Guns Nʼ Roses Raymond James Stadium, Tampa // Aug. 15 The Killers Amway Center, Orlando // Sep. 16
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Ryley Walker Heartwood Soundstage, Gainesville // Apr. 30 Ryley Walker is an accomplished fingerstyle guitarist, singer and songwriter from Chicago. He offers virtuosic guitar playing and floating pop sounds. The Hit Men: Legendary Rock Supergroup The Sharon L. Morse Performing Arts Center, The Villages // May 8 The Hit Men credentials, showmanship and sheer talent are unmatched by any other group in modern music. They deliver sizzling shows that combine hit after hit from their witnessing and making musical history. WindFM “Rocks the Reilly” presents WIND FM: Kiss America Reilly Arts Center, Ocala // June 6 This is a concert-level experience with amazing costumes, props and look-alike performers with years of experience. This Kiss tribute show is as close to the real thing as possible. NY Rockabilly Rockets Circle Square Cultural Center, Ocala // June 13 This group has exploded into the East Coast music scene as the premier rockabilly show band with their unique twist on the roots of rock and roll, rockabilly, swing, blues, country and surf rock music. John Denver Tribute Orange Blossom Opry, Weirsdale // June 20 Back by popular demand, enjoy the amazing voice of Dr. Carl Bennett as the great John Denver. Sit back, close your eyes and you will swear John Denver is in the room.
Zack Maruniak Hiatus Brewing Company // Apr. 24 Carry the Day The Lodge Ocala // Apr. 25 Jeff Jarrett Horse & Hounds // Apr. 27 Caveman Dave Papa Pineapples // Apr. 29 Jeff Jarrett Pi on Broadway // Apr. 30 September Dogs The First & Last Tab Food & Spirits // May 2 The Big Bad Duo The Crazy Cucumber // May 8 Joeʼs Garage Band Charlie Horse // May 8 Jeff Jarrett Bank Street Patio // May 21 Whiskey Jones Circle Square Commons // May 22 Fareeza The Lodge, Ocala // May 23
GET MORE MUSIC Follow us on Facebook at 352 PREVIEW and Instagram @352PREVIEW for concert presale dates and just-announced shows. *Editorʼs Note: Tickets were available for all concerts and events were active as of date of publication. Dates are subject to change and events can be canceled at the discretion of the venue.
Front: Melissa Mitchell & Prissy the dog. Back: Amy Flingos, Charles Vaughn, Michelle Zuniga, Ron Decker, Brand y Stodghill, Gary Mitchell
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The Great Escape
Sometimes an escape from the stressors of everyday life is just what you need. A chance to get away, take a deep breath and enjoy the serenity of nature. Lake Weir, Eaton’s Beach and Carney Island Recreation and Conservation Area may be the perfect choice. // B Y K A R I N F A B R Y- C U S H E N B E R Y
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ffering more than 750 acres of wetland systems, sandhill islands and beaches, Carney Island was purchased by Marion County in 1960 from the Coca Cola Company and has been offering Central Florida residents a respite from reality ever since. Whether you have a boat or not, Carney Island and Lake Weir have plenty to offer. A 4-mile network of trails and walkways meanders through the brush and greenery and offers a 3.2-mile perimeter. Itʼs not uncommon for hikers to spy wildlife along a walk, including wild turkeys, a variety of birds and even deer. A trek all the way out to the end of the peninsula will be rewarded with a panoramic view of Lake Weir. If youʼre looking for a shorter walk, the 1-mile Fern Gully hike circles wetlands that are covered with lush ferns, and the Quail Loop takes you on a 2.2-mile hike through a pine plantation surrounded by oak hammocks. Check out the Whispering Pines and Fox Trot Loop as well. A trail map is located at the entrance to the paths making it easy for guests to choose the appropriate adventure. If youʼve got little ones in your group, an expansive playground offers a great place to release some energy. A nearby picnic pavilion is an ideal place to enjoy your picnic lunch. Restrooms are close, adding to the comfort of the area. Bring a volleyball, Frisbee or horseshoes to play a friendly game
with family and friends. In the summer the concession stand is open, offering quick snacks and ice cream. With the waters of Lake Weir right there, itʼs safe to say that water activities are a popular attraction. Boating and kayaking are especially popular during the warm summer months. Plan in advance and secure a boat or jet ski rental from nearby Eatonʼs Beach Adventure Sports. The company also offers paddleboards, paddle boats and kayaks for rent, plus umbrellas and cabanas to make the Florida sun a bit more bearable. A one-hour historical cruise of the lake is also offered for $21.95 for adults and $15.95 for children. Call Eatonʼs Beach Adventure Sports for tour offerings and reservations. A trip to Carney Island wouldnʼt be complete without a visit to the Ma Barker House Museum. This historic cracker home traveled by barge across Lake Weir to come to its current resting place on the shores of Lake Weir. The home was the site of a 1935 shootout between the FBI and a notorious gangster crime family wanted by authorities. Bullet holes still riddle the furniture and walls, and the furniture still stands as it did the day of the historic shootout. The FBI agents ended up killing Kate “Ma” Barker and her son, Fred, during the fight, which has gone down as the longest gun battle in FBI history. Guided tour tickets are available by calling Marion County Parks and Recreation at (352) 671-
8560. Tickets are $10 per person, and the tour typically lasts about 90 minutes. As the sun begins to set, you may want to secure a waterside table at the nearby Eatonʼs Beach Sandbar & Grill. You can even dock the boat right there and walk on up to dinner (lunch is available as well). The Florisiana menu is inspired by the tastes and cuisines of both Florida and Louisiana. Think Creole, Cajun, low country, barbecue and Spanish dishes. Visitors say the flavors are phenomenal and the atmosphere is relaxing and laid back, with flip flops being the norm. The menu has many offerings in a variety of categories, including Florisiana Favorites, Smokehouse, Hand-held Favorites and more. If itʼs your first visit, you may want to start with an Eatonʼs Beach Signature Dish. Seafood Mac and More Cheese, Spanish Catfish and Cajun Sweet Fried Chicken are a few favorites. If youʼre visiting on a weekend, live music takes place on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Eatonʼs Beach Adventure Sports // ebasfl.com // (352) 812-5007 Eatonʼs Beach Sandbar & Grill // 15790 SE 134th Avenue, Weirsdale // eatonsbeach.com // (352) 259-2444 For more information about the Ma Barker House Museum or Carney Island and Lake Weir, visit marioncountyfl.org. APR ‘20
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Date Night Under The Stars Looking for a different spin on a night out? Plan a date that’s not far from your front door. // W R I T T E N & C O M P I L E D B Y M E L I S S A P E T E R S O N
VENUS IN THE NIGHT SKY
In early April, the planet Venus is just about at the peak of its visibility. If you know your stars, it will appear near the Pleiades star cluster. Venus will appear as a thick crescent and will
remain in the sky unusually late into the night, setting around midnight. By late April, Venus will reach its max brightness, and youʼll be able to see its fall from the evening sky throughout the month.
THE SUPERMOON
In April you can witness the “largest” full moon of the year. On April 7 the moon will arrive at its closest point in its orbit to Earth, called its perigee. (For triviaʼs sake, the point farthest from Earth is called its apogee.) When the perigee coincides with a full moon, you get the supermoon effect, and the moon seems to appear larger than normal, even though the moon is still 221,772 miles from Earth.
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THE LYRIDS
The Lyrid meteor shower lasts from about April 16 to 25. You should be able to see approximately 10 to 15 meteors per hour around the showerʼs peak, but the Lyrids are known for uncommon surges that can sometimes bring up to 100 meteors per hour. The meteor shower is near the star Vega in the constellation Lyra, which rises in the northeast at about 10pm. Itʼs always easier to see “shooting stars” when youʼre away from city lights, so this might be an opportunity to pack up the car and head out of town to get the best view. Your best bet for viewing is the dark hours before dawn on April 22. The new moon is on April 23 this month, so the sky should be nice and dark for better viewing.
A telescope isnʼt required for taking in the night sky, but itʼs definitely a plus if you have one. If youʼre in the market for your first, expect to pay no less than $200 for a nice telescope. Do some research on your own to find one thatʼs perfect for your level of interest, and then visit a store or online retailer that specializes in telescopes—and stay away from toy telescopes that are meant for children. If youʼre looking for a telescope the whole family can enjoy, the kids will appreciate a quality product as much as you will. 20
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Sources: space.com, earthsky.org
Weʼre always looking for new ways to connect with our significant other without spending a lot of money or making a fuss. This month, plan a date night that doesnʼt even require you to leave your backyard. The nighttime sky comes alive during the month of April—make plans now to share it with someone special. Put the kiddos to bed early, break out a blanket and grab the telescope if you have one. Here are a few celestial events to watch for.
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A Sea Of Survivors During the day, the beach is all about catching waves and relaxing in the sand. At night, though, nature takes over. Throughout Florida sea turtles are making their way out of the ocean and onshore to lay their precious eggs.
// B Y K A R I N F A B R Y- C U S H E N B E R Y
Sources: conserveturtles.org, visitflorida.com, floridaocean.org
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uring nesting season, between March and October, female sea turtles, predominantly loggerhead turtles, return to the same beach where they were born to lay their clutch. The average turtle lays between 80 and 120 eggs, and she takes great care to spread sand over her nest in every direction, making it difficult for predators to spot the nest. After an incubation period of about 60 days, the hatchlings are ready to make their way to the surface. The process of digging out of the nest may take several days, and itʼs a dangerous process for the babies. The first 48 hours are critical because the hatchling has to safely travel from the beach to a place in the ocean with an abundance of food and few predators. Those that survive the trek may make their way to the Gulf Stream currents, where the young turtle will remain for years until they are strong enough to swim closer to the shore. Researchers believe that only about one out of every 1,000 sea turtles makes it to adulthood. The sea turtleʼs journey is amazing and treacherous, and itʼs one not many people get an opportunity to witness. The east coast shores of Central and Southern Florida are especially popular with nesting sea turtles, and through a variety of conservation companies, you may be able to witness an egg laying or hatching. The following companies offer tours and educational programs related to sea turtles. Keep in mind, nature is nature, and there is no guarantee that a tour will result in a sea turtle viewing.
CANAVERAL NATIONAL SEASHORE Volusia/Brevard Counties, Florida Traditionally, reservations for the Turtle Watch program are made by calling (386) 428-3384. Calls are typically taken May 15 through June 15 for the July watches. The tour starts at 8pm and lasts until about midnight. Limited to 25-30 people, and the minimum age is 8. The cost is usually around $15 per person. Visit floridawildlifeviewing.com for details.
SEA TURTLE SAFETY DO:
• Keep your distance. Never approach or touch a nesting sea turtle. Stay quiet and keep lights off. • Let hatchlings emerge. Do not touch hatchlings. If you see hatchlings on the beach, let them crawl to the ocean on their own. • Avoid the dune. Enter the beach at designated access points, and avoid walking on the dunes or surrounding vegetation. • Turn off lights. If staying in a home on the beach, turn off lights not in use and keep blinds closed at night. Turn off porch or outdoor lights. • Fill in your holes. Fill sand holes back in, and knock over sand castles so that nesting turtles and hatchlings canʼt fall into them as they crawl to the ocean.
DON’T:
• Leave it behind. Leave the beach clean by removing chairs and umbrellas. • Dig holes. Avoid digging holes or using shovels to avoid interfering with developing sea turtle nests. • Be a litterbug. Never leave trash behind on the beach. • Release balloons. Never release balloons into the air—they travel far distances and can be eaten by marine organisms. Adapted from marinelife.org
SEA TURTLE CONSERVANCY Brevard County, Florida This organization offers guided turtle walks in June and July. The reservation window opens in May. Walks are conducted on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday nights in June and July. Space is limited to 20 people per night, and the cost is $15 per person. Beaches may include Apollo Beach, New Smyrna Beach, Playalinda Beach and Titusville. Check out conserveturtles.org for more information.
NIGHTTIME SEA TURTLE WALKS Stuart, Florida The Florida Oceanographic Societyʼs nighttime sea turtle walks resume in May and include an educational presentation on the turtles and conservation efforts put in place to protect them. The Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center is located in Stuart, Florida, and the cost to participate is $12 per person. Participants must be at least 8 years old, and the walk begins at 9pm and may continue until midnight. Visit floridaocean.org for details. APR ‘20
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Animals On Parade
Can’t make it to your favorite wildlife conservancy? There are lots of virtual options for exploring the world of animals without leaving your home . // W R I T T E N & C O M P I L E D B Y M E L I S S A P E T E R S O N
Check out some of these animal livestreams from Explore.org for a chance to bring a little bit of nature right into your living room. Each animal species is easy to find on the website by entering the name below in the search bar.
MIXED SPECIES FLYING FOXES
The Lubee Bat Conservancy, based in Gainesville, is a non-profit organization dedicated to saving bats and their habitats. The live cam was established in 2016, and viewers can check out the bats all day. The cam showcases five of the 13 bat species that the Lubee Bat Conservancy cares for. They also offer a livestream of the giant flying fox via the explore.org website.
GORILLAS
Based at the Gorilla Rehabilitation and Conservation Education Center, these orphaned and rescued Grauerʼs gorillas live near the Tayna Nature Reserve in the Democratic Republic of Congo. GRACE exists to promote the conservation of wild gorillas and their habitat by working with Congolese communities. The best viewing times for these primates is 5am-6:30am and 8:30am-10am.
PENGUINS
Penguin Beach, as itʼs known at the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach, California, is home to the Magellanic penguin exhibit and features over 20 different penguins—each with their own unique personality. Viewers can look for the color-coded nametag on the penguinʼs wings and then visit the aquariumʼs website to learn a little about each one.
SEA LION
Sea Lion Beach at OrcaLab in Hanson Island, British Columbia, Canada, is a favorite spot for these noisy sea animals. Steller sea lions are the worldʼs largest sea lions and can be found in the Bering Sea and in the north Pacific from Japan to California. Watch as they lounge, make funny noises and fish in the waters of the Johnstone Strait at Blackfish Sound. 22
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PUPPIES
We know, we know. Theyʼre not quite exotic, but who can resist cute newborn puppies? These pups are part of the Educated Canines Assisting With Disabilities organization, based in Bethel, Connecticut, and you can meet the newest litter. These golden retrievers and Labrador retrievers will eventually become service dogs. Until then, you can watch as they grow.
AFRICAN WILDLIFE
Africam.com is situated on the Olifants West Game Reserve in South Africa. Youʼll see the “Big Five” of African wildlife: lions, elephants, rhinos, buffalos and leopards, as well as many other wild animals. The cameras are hidden, so you can observe the animals in their natural habitat both during the day and night.
GIANT PANDAS
Watching the Wolong Grove live cam at the Shenshuping Gengda Panda Center in Chinaʼs Wolong Valley Nature Reserve offers viewers a look into the lives of giant pandas as they lounge and eat bamboo. The live feed offers views of 11 different panda yards. The center conducts research on panda ecology and population and is responsible for artificial breeding, genetics, disease prevention, conservation training and release of giant pandas from captivity.
Va C AY Da YDR EA M I NG Maybe you had to cancel your awesome spring break trip and you’re ready to start planning some summer travel to make up for it. Or maybe you just want to daydream about not being stuck inside your house. Either way, here are a few vacay locales to get you started.
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SEASIDE - FL
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hen life takes a breather and some normalcy resumes, plan a trip for somewhere off the beaten path—somewhere out of the way. The theme parks and large resorts are plenty of fun, but sometimes you just want—and need—to really get away from it all. We share two of our favorite Florida beach locations and two mountain locations that are guaranteed to have you relaxing in no time. All four are within a half-dayʼs drive of Ocala, and all offer their own unique set of leisure opportunities. Book your vacation home rental through VRBO, Airbnb or a local rental company, fill the car with gas and hit the road. Adventure awaits.
SEASIDE, FLORIDA
JUPITER INLET LIGHTHOUSE - FL 24
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This quaint, idyllic beach town is so perfect that when searching for an ideal beach location to film the movie The Truman Show starring Jim Carrey and Ed Harris, producers knew they had found their hamlet when they stumbled across Seaside, located on Floridaʼs Emerald Coast. In less than five hours you can leave your hurried life behind and arrive in paradise.
Photos courtesy of visitflorida.com
BLOWING ROCK PRESERVE - FL Seaside isnʼt about big shopping malls or huge events. Itʼs about taking a breath and allowing yourself to relax. The ocean is by far the biggest draw to the area. White, sandy beaches, bright blue water and an Iʼll-get-there-when-I-getthere attitude make beaches like Santa Rosa Beach and Grayton Beach the perfect locales for wasting the day away. Bring a good book and some beach toys for the kids. The streets in and around town are known for being both walkable and bikeable, and bike rentals are available throughout the small town. 30A Bike Rentals is located, you guessed it, right on scenic highway 30A, with direct access to the beach and nearby trails. If youʼre looking for a little less work and a little more speed, Pedego Electric Bikes is right down the road in Santa Rosa Beach. With an electric bike you can cover more ground, taking in more of 30Aʼs memorable scenery. Bikes are available for hours at a time or for the week. The shops and restaurants that line the townʼs streets are worth a visit, and customer service is a priority. If youʼre on the hunt for a one-of-a-kind piece of artwork or memento, Seaside and the surrounding communities are replete with art galleries and studios. One
to visit is the Fusion Art Glass Gallery where youʼll find glass art, jewelry and home décor items, such as lamps and ornaments. Less than 10 miles up the road youʼll find Silver Sands Premium Outlets in Destin. The outlets include favorites like Kate Spade, Talbotʼs, Vera Bradley, J. Crew and Gap. One thing you wonʼt find in Seaside is chain restaurants. Instead, the mom and pop and family-owned establishments have made a name for themselves. If you think breakfast is the most important meal of the day, the Great Southern Café has people lining up early for their smoked gouda grits and bacon and pecan waffles. They also serve lunch and dinner and stay busy throughout the day, so plan ahead. If youʼre like many, you crave seafood when youʼre at the beach. The Shrimp Shackʼs peel-and-eat shrimp is always fresh, and the garlic butter is to die for.
JUPITER ISLAND, FLORIDA
Florida is known for its expansive, flat sandy white beaches. What itʼs not known for is large rock formations dotting the seaside. Thatʼs what makes Blowing Rock Preserve on Jupiter Island so special. Owned by the Nature
Conservancy, Blowing Rock is the largest Anastasia limestone (also known as coquina) outcropping on the Atlantic coast. The best time to witness the full force of the waves is during an extreme high tide, when the waves pounding against the rocks can cause geyser-like eruptions to climb 50 feet in the air. This protected barrier island is available for swimming, snorkeling and scuba diving, and youʼll find an abundance of rare birds plus lots of vegetation on the three hiking trails. The area is naturally beautiful so plan for some amateur photography time. To really understand and appreciate Jupiter Island, a guided tour is the way to go. From kayak (some are clear!) and canoe tours to pontoon and luxury yacht tours, exploring the island is both fun and easy. The Wild & Scenic Loxahatchee Guided Tour by the Jupiter Outdoor Center and the Clear Kayak Tours by Get Up and Go Kayaking are two popular choices that are likely to sell out, so make your reservations early. If youʼre more of a land lubber, the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse and Museum is perfect to explore. Guided climbing tours are available for the circa 1860 lighthouse, which is located on APR ‘20
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the National Register of Historic Places. Plan to spend about two or three hours here ascending the 105-step spiraling staircase and taking in the memorabilia at the history museum. The nautical gift shop is worth a look, too. Southeast Floridaʼs largest state park, Jonathan Dickinson State Park, is just a hop, skip and jump away, and itʼs ideal for a relaxing day out with family. From fishing and kayaking to hiking and off-road biking, the park offers a great selection of recreational opportunities. We recommend the ranger-guided tour of Trapper Nelsonʼs 1930s pioneer homestead— itʼs available year-round and comes complete with some interesting historical facts. The Busch Wildlife Sanctuary always comes up as one of the top places to visit while in Jupiter. This non-profit organization is dedicated to the conservation and protection of Floridaʼs wildlife. Their goal is to rescue, rehab, release and educate, and the wildlife hospital cares for upward of 5,000 animals each year. There is no set admission fee, but all donations are used to further care for the animalsʼ rehabilitations and the facilities educational programs. At any given time, the sanctuary may house panthers, bears, owls and other birds, opossums, foxes and more. Visitors are welcome Mondays through Saturdays between 10am and 4:30pm. Call ahead to arrange a tour.
MILE HIGH SWINGING BRIDGE - NC
FORT MOUNTAIN STATE PARK-BLUE RIDGE, GEORGIA
A far-cry from Floridaʼs mostly flat terrain, the mountains of North Georgia are a welcome retreat for those looking to add a little variety to their vacation. The mountain region of Georgia is home to many a beautiful state parks, but one of our favorites is Fort Mountain State Park. The park is named for a stone wall that zigs and zags for 885 feet at the mountainʼs summit. The mystery surrounding the wall is part of the appeal. Many believe its origin may be ceremonial in nature or be a form of primitive self defense for the areaʼs earliest settlers. The park offers more than 50 miles of hiking, equestrian and biking trails, and the summit vistas are worth the added footwork to get there. Plan your trip for sunset and youʼll be rewarded with spectacular views. The park offers camping, but we prefer the newly renovated, private, cozy cabins. Who wouldnʼt love the charm of oversized screen porches and wood-burning stoves for heat mixed with the modern amenities of a full kitchen and clean linens? Book early, though, they go fast! The cabins are situated in the forest area surrounding the parkʼs lake and sandy beach. 26
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MERCIER ORCHARDS - GA One of North Georgiaʼs most popular travel destinations, Blue Ridge, is just a 25-mile or so drive from the park, so a day trip is in order. And no trip to Blue Ridge is complete without a stop at Mercier Orchards. Known for fall apple
picking, in June youʼll find blueberries and July blackberries. The views from the orchard are spectacular, and itʼs easy to lose track of time while meandering through the bushes and trees looking for that perfectly ripe piece of fruit. Plan on lunch in the café, and good luck choosing just one or two snacks to take home from the market—choose between breads, cookies, salsas, jellies, butters and more. Oh, and the fried pies are a must! The Tasting Room is where youʼll find hard ciders and wine made from fruit that was grown, harvested, pressed, fermented and bottled right on-site. Of course, Blue Ridge also has an abundance of outdoor activities waiting to be explored. If you have the kids in tow (or if youʼre especially adventurous), the Blue Ridge Adventure Park offers a collection of aerial ropes courses, ziplines and more ranging from 15 to 50 feet tall. Try a night adventure during the summer months to avoid the heat of the day. If a slower pace is what youʼre after, an afternoon spent tubing down the Toccoa River may be the way to go. At just $10 per person (bring your cash!), itʼs an affordable way to beat the heat. Once the waiver is signed, load in the Toccoa Wilderness Tubing van for a scenic 10-minute drive to the
FORT MOUNTAIN STATE PARK - GA
Mile High Swinging bridge photos courtesy of North Carolina State Parks; Mercier Orchards photo by Ralph Daniel; Amicalola Falls photo by Geoff Johnson; Fort Mountain State Park photo by Ralph Daniel
AMICALOLA FALLS - GA Sandy Bottom drop-off location. Tubes and life jackets are included and come in a variety of sizes. The two-mile ride is mostly a steady drift, but there are a few rushing spots that will get your adrenalin pumping a bit. The shuttles run seven days a week between 10am and 3pm, and the season ends the Monday of Labor Day weekend unless otherwise posted.
BOONE-GRANDFATHER MOUNTAIN, NORTH CAROLINA When planning a trip to the mountains of North Carolina, a visit to Grandfather Mountain should be a given. Rising nearly 6,000 feet above sea level, this mountain is recognized by the United Nations as a “nature preserve of global importance.” The small admission fee to drive into the park is well worth the price of admission and guests can easily make a day of the excursion. The views of mountain ridges and horizons in the distance are enough to take your breath away while rounding each corner. Included in the price of admission is the Mile High Swinging Bridge, a 228-foot suspension footbridge that connects two mountain peaks at one mile above sea level.
Itʼs not for the faint of heart, but if youʼre feeling adventurous, the 360-degree panoramic views are totally worth it. The mountain is also home to nearly a dozen trails that vary in difficulty, from an easy trek in the woods to a rigorous hike through rugged peaks. While exploring Grandfather Mountain itʼs not uncommon to come across a variety of native wildlife, including bears, cougars, otters, elk and more. Moats and high retaining walls protect hikers and sightseers from close contact with the wildlife. The Grandfather Mountain Nature Museum offers a theater that shows brief films about the mountain, along with an exhibition gallery featuring displays designed to teach guests about the mountainʼs natural history. Make a pit stop at the museumʼs restaurant for a tasty bowl of soup or sandwich, and stop by the Fudge Shop to satisfy your sweet tooth. Nearby Boone, North Carolina, (an easy 30-minute drive) is an ideal resting point to set up camp… or rent a cabin. Thereʼs more than enough to do to keep busy for the duration of your trip, from gem mining and ziplining to rafting and winery tours. At the top of many visitorʼs list is the Tweetsie Railroad in Blowing Rock just off the Blue Ridge
Parkway. The highlight of this wild-west themed park is the three-mile ride on a train pulled by a historic narrow-gauge steam locomotive. The park also includes live shows, a zoo, amusement rides and other family-friendly activities. Nearby is Blowing Rock, so schedule some time to explore this iconic mountain peak situated about 4,000 feet above sea level. The rock formation was given its name because of the gusty winds that blow up from the surrounding rocky walls. Further along the Blueridge Parkway is Linville Falls and Linville Gorge, often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of North Carolina.” Linville Caverns is the only limestone cavern open to the public in North Carolina. Take a subterranean guided tour into the mountain to explore the areaʼs history from the inside out. The Boone area is home to many great shops, restaurants and breweries, including the Lost Province Brewing Co., a microbrewery and gastropub that specializes in wood-fired food. With a dozen beers brewed on-site, itʼs not uncommon to find your new favorite on tap here. After a beer with friends, shopping on King Street is a must. The specialty boutiques and mom-and-pop shops house unique gifts and collectibles, and youʼre certain to find that something special to commemorate your trip.
LEARN MORE
Check out these helpful websites when choosing activities, purchasing tickets and looking for accommodations. SEASIDE, FLORIDA seasidefl.com // visitsouthwalton.com JUPITER ISLAND, FLORIDA townofjupiterisland.com // visitflorida.com GEORGIA MOUNTAINS gastateparks.org // exploregeorgia.org // escapetoblueridge.com NORTH CAROLINA exploreboone.com // blowingrock.com // ncparks.gov APR ‘20
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I’M BORED! WHEN WILL IT END?!?
BUT WHY?! MOM! MOM! MOM!
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THIS IS SO N OT F U N .
CAN WE PLEASE GO SOMEWHERE, ANYWHERE?!
e G t B us y 25 BOREDOM BUSTERS FOR WHEN YOU’RE STUCK AT HOME. By M el i ss a Peter s on
Canʼt go out and looking for fun ways to pass the time? Us too. Here are 25 ideas for keeping you and your family entertained when you donʼt want to leave the house.
2. TAKE A MASTERCLASS.
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to take a cooking class taught by Gordon Ramsay, photography class by Annie Leibovitz, magic class by Penn & Teller or ballet technique by Misty Copeland? Wonder no longer. With MasterClass you can learn from the best right at your own computer. With more than 80 virtual classes and a variety of pricing plans, thereʼs sure to be something to keep you busy. Learn more at masterclass.com.
3. GO ON A MUSEUM VIRTUAL TOUR. 1. BINGE WATCH A NEW SHOW.
How often do you have the chance to spend multiple days in front of the TV with nothing better to do than catch up on your favorite show or watch multiple seasons of a new show? Probably never. Well nowʼs your chance. Whether itʼs on Netflix, Hulu, Disney+ or another streaming service, donʼt let the guilt of binge watching get you down. Just do it.
Did you know that you can visit some of the best museums in the world without ever leaving your couch? Museums such as The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, The State Russian Museum in St. Petersburg, Russia, The National Gallery in London and the Acropolis Museum in Athens, Greece, offer glimpses of fine art, even when you canʼt make it in person. Through Google Arts & Culture, youʼll have access to the online exhibits and virtual tours of more than 500
museums. Visit artsandculture.google.com/partner to see them all.
4. SUPPORT LOCAL ARTISTS.
If youʼre looking for a way to see local shows and support artists at the same time, check out the Reilly Arts Centerʼs series of live online broadcasts. These shows will include a diverse lineup of local and regional artists and crew who will be compensated by the Reilly for their work and talents. The shows are free and will include pop and classical musicians, bands, actors, dancers, comedians and more. You can view the schedule of broadcasts at reillyartscenter.com/live.
5. LEARN A NEW HOBBY VIA YOUTUBE.
Everyone knows you can find pretty much anything you want to know on YouTube. Why not use it to learn a new hobby? Whether itʼs perfecting your drawing or makeup applications skills through tutorials or learning how to knit or play the guitar, there are hundreds of at-home experts who are APR ‘20
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judge of the best picture. The winner gets a special treat after dinner.
11. LISTEN TO AN AUDIBLE BOOK.
Audible is a wonderful site, full of books that are sure to pique the interest of just about everyone. An Audible subscription is just $14.95 per month, and you can try it for free for the first 30 days. Or do a search for free Audible books and choose from one of those. Check it out at audible.com.
GO ON A VIRTUAL FIELD TRIP.
1 2.
Are your kids bummed that their field trip was canceled? Many websites are offering “virtual field trips”—no permission slip required. A simple search on Google brings up several well-known websites that have a ton of videos, photos and interactive materials for kids to browse, and some even offer companion guides packed with standards-aligned, hands-on learning activities. Some great options are Discovery Education at discoveryeducation.com/community/virtual-field-trips, the San Diego Zoo at kids.sandiegozoo.org and Yellowstone National Park at nps.gov/yell/learn/photosmultimedia/ virtualtours.htm.
13. TAKE A DANCE CLASS ONLINE.
willing to share their knowledge with you. Visit youtube.com to find something that suits your interests.
6. CREATE A WORK OF ART.
This one is perfect for the family to do together. There are so many techniques for creating amazing works of art online right now. Check out YouTube and search for “Chain String Pull Painting” for one of these techniques that is easy to do at home. Or simply give your kiddos a blank canvas and a palette of paint and let them do it their own way.
7. HAVE A MOVIE MARATHON.
Never quite made it through all the Star Wars movies (donʼt forget about The Clone Wars and The Mandalorian)? Want to see all the Harry Potter or Toy Story movies again? Thereʼs no better time than now. Plan on popping plenty of popcorn and spending the day on the couch.
8. REVIVE THE ART OF SNAIL MAIL.
Use this as an excuse to put to use that cute stationary you bought forever ago. Write a letter to a friend you havenʼt seen in a while. Have 30
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your kids write a letter to their grandparents. Never sent out thank you cards for your kidʼs birthday two months ago? Now you have no excuse. Get to it.
9. TAKE THE KIDS ON A DIY JOURNEY.
Normally we would never suggest this torture, but sometimes you have to give one up for the sake of boredom. Ask your kids a simple question: “Want to make slime?” We guarantee they arenʼt going to say no. Other options include at-home Playdoh and Kinetic Sand, sensory rice bins and whatʼs known as calm bottles. (Just search Google for the recipes.) Did your kids receive a DIY kit for their last birthday? Nowʼs the time to take it out from the back of the closet where you hid it and put it to use.
10. COLOR WITH THE KIDS.
Spend a day coloring—no one is ever too old. Donʼt have an adult coloring book at home? There are plenty of free options online that you can print at home. The same goes for kid options. A quick Google search will bring up something everyone is interested in. Does your spouse not want to partake? They can be the
If your kids canʼt make it to their regularly scheduled dance classes or youʼre looking for a new workout option, check out a virtual dance class. YouTube has plenty of options, but you can also visit clistudios.com/keepdancing for free, professional classes.
14. DO A BIG PUZZLE.
Think youʼre a puzzle master? Have you tried a 2,000-piece puzzle? Really brave? Try a 5,000-piece puzzle. We hope you have empty floor space because these monsters arenʼt likely to fit on your dining room table. Check out puzzlewarehouse.com for tons of options.
15. GET YOUR GAME ON.
Plan a game night! Maybe you received a game for Christmas that you and the kids havenʼt had time to try yet. Hereʼs your chance. Nothing brings the family together quite like a full-length game of Monopoly.
16. GO TO THE (AT-HOME) SPA.
Set up manicure and pedicure stations complete with relaxing music, bowls for soaking your fingertips and tubs for soaking your feet. Take turns painting nails and giving foot massages with the kids. It will make them feel grown up, and hopefully youʼll feel at least a little pampered.
17. HAVE A SCAVENGER HUNT.
You can still get outside, even if itʼs just around your neighborhood and in your backyard. Make a list of nature-related items for the kids to find. Who knows what theyʼll find while theyʼre exploring. Afterward make time to research all the unidentifiable plants and bugs. Another option is to have a color scavenger hunt—find 10 things that are the color yellow. There are tons of free scavenger hunt printables online.
18. SAY THANKS TO SCIENCE.
YouTube can be a great resource for entertainment as well as educational content. Plan a day of science discovery by watching videos on YouTube to get the ingredients you need and learn the steps before you start—and then just go for it. Donʼt worry about failing; itʼs part of the scientific process. One of our favorite channels on YouTube is Spangler Science TV.
19. MAKE INDOOR S’MORES.
You donʼt have to have a campfire to make gooey sʼmores. Youʼll need to gather all the typical ingredients: graham crackers, large marshmallows and bars of milk chocolate. Preheat your oven to broil, and then, on a baking sheet, lay out your graham cracker halves and top with a square of chocolate and a marshmallow. Place on the oven rack 5 to 6 inches below the top of the oven, and leaving the oven door cracked a few inches, watch for 20 to 30 seconds for the marshmallow to char and expand. Remove from the oven, and top with an additional graham cracker half. Eat while theyʼre warm.
sure those family memories donʼt get lost among the clutter by compiling all of them into an electronic document. Once youʼve gathered the recipes from family members and typed everything up, consider having them printed. Sites like createmycookbook.com and shutterfly.com allow you to include photos along with your recipes to create a special memento. They also make great gifts!
24. TAKE A YOGA CLASS.
22. INSTITUTE A READING HOUR EACH DAY.
25. GO TO A CONCERT (WITHOUT LEAVING YOUR HOME).
Donʼt let reading get pushed to the side. For one hour each day, insist that everyone put down the electronics and pick up an actual book or magazine—this includes parents, too. When the hour is over, take a few minutes to talk about what each person has read.
2 3.
CAMP IN YOUR BACKYARD.
This is the perfect time of year to plan a backyard campout. The nights are still relatively cool, and the mosquitos havenʼt made their yearly appearance quite yet. If you donʼt have a tent, ask a friend to borrow one. Spend the evening playing camping games and telling stories by lantern light. We guarantee itʼs an experience the whole family will remember fondly for years to come.
Canʼt get to your weekly yoga class? The YouTube channel Yoga With Adriene offers tons of free classes that are specific to lots of different circumstances. Looking to get energized in the morning? Thereʼs a yoga class for that. New to yoga? Thereʼs a class for that. Need relief for neck pain? Thereʼs a class for that, too. Check it out at youtube.com/user/yogawithadriene.
There are so many options for seeing a concert while at home. Beyond watching previously recorded shows on streaming sites like Netflix (donʼt discount this option though!), there are lots of other online resources. Here are some of our favorites. The streaming service Stingray Qello (qello.com) offers the worldʼs largest collection of full-length concerts and music documentaries. You can try it for free for seven days. New York Cityʼs Lincoln Center is offering live and previously recorded performances on their social channels while itʼs not possible to get out and see them in person. Check it out at facebook.com/LincolnCenterNYC. Musician Yo-Yo Ma is posting performances on social platforms using the hashtag #SongsOfComfort.
Sources: cnet.com, travelandleisure.com, dinnerthendessert.com, latimes.com
20. GROW A GARDEN.
Spring is the perfect season to grow a backyard garden. We love raised garden beds because they keep the critters out and save our backs while planting and tending to the garden. There are plenty of videos on, you guessed it, YouTube that offer step-by-step instructions for building your own. And then simply find out which veggies are in season at the time of planting. In Central Florida, squash, spinach, radishes, beans, tomatoes and plenty more are great options this time of year. And then you just have to decide if you want to grow from seeds or plants. Either option can be readily found at a local nursery or stores like Lowes or Home Depot this time of year.
21. CREATE A FAMILY RECIPE BOOK.
Do you have a collection of family recipes scribbled on bits of paper and tucked away in a book or your kitchen junk drawer. Make APR ‘20
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Get The Blues Blueberry season is here. Make plans to visit one of these farms where you can pick fresh berries right from the bush. // W R I T T E N & C O M P I L E D BY MELISSA PETERSON Blueberries: Theyʼre healthy, kids love them and you can find them fresh at one of these farms right here in the 352.
ABSHIER BLUEBERRY FARM
3960 SE 115th Str, Belleview // (352) 8172660 // abshierblueberryfarm.com This location usually opens near the beginning of April and stays open through mid-May. This year they are predicting one of the largest crops of blueberries theyʼve ever had, so thereʼs plenty to go around. Beyond their yummy U-pick berries, you can also pick up some blueberry jam, blueberry plants and alreadypicked blueberries for your convenience. Check for updates on their Facebook page for opening dates and times.
21209 US 301, Island Grove // (352) 317-6110 // auntzelmasblueberries.com Grab a bucket and choose the biggest berries. Open throughout April and into May, picking starts around 10am seven days a week, with Friday, Saturday and Sunday being most popular. The farm offers seven varieties of blueberries, including Windsor and Sweet Crisp. If youʼre in a hurry, stop in for some pre-picked berries to take home.
BAY LAKE U-PICK ORGANIC BLUEBERRY FARM 20525 County Road 315, Fort McCoy // (352) 546-3834 If youʼre looking for later-season blueberries, youʼll want to keep Bay Lake on your radar. With berries ready around the end of May last year, they had several rounds of fresh berries throughout June. Make sure to visit their Facebook page for the latest info on when the berries are ready for picking. Oh, and when 32
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you do visit, youʼll want to try the homemade blueberry ice cream.
Back Road Berries // 13578 CR 103, Oxford // (352) 303-3213 // backroadberries.com
RED WHITE AND BLUES FARM
Blueberry Downs // 2459 NE 98th Street, Anthony // (352) 216-9107 // blueberrydowns.com
3250 NE 140th Ave., Williston // (352) 5290594 // redwhiteandbluesfarm.com The harvest season begins in April and often continues into June at this commercial blueberry farm. U-pick is available seven days a week from 8am-4pm—just check their Facebook page to find out more about the start of the season. While youʼre there, the kids can enjoy the swing set, playhouse and duck races while you relax on one of the front porch rocking chairs and enjoy a blueberry lemonade, slushie or milkshake. Donʼt forget to browse the farms store, too!
OTHER LOCAL FARMS
B & G Blueberries // 10203 NE 100th St., Fort McCoy // (352) 236-4410
Fiddle Leaf Farms Blueberry U-Pick // 17401 S Highway 475, Summerfield // (352) 245-9269 Heather Oaks Farm // 4240 Christmas Lane, Lady Lake // (352) 753-1184 // heatheroaksfarm.com Richardʼs Family Blueberry Farm & Nursery // 12650 S Highway 475, Ocala // (352) 6153702 Wet Hammock Farm // 4500 E Hwy 318, Citra // (352) 812-5462 // wethammockfarm.com Wacahoota Farms // 1223 SW 136th Place, Micanopy // (352) 538-3290 // facebook.com/WacahootaFarms
Source: ocalamarion.com
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PASSWORD, PLEASE 34
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You knock on the door, the window opens and you share the password with the door maiden. Stepping into the Thirsty Cobbler in downtown Ocala is like taking a step back into the 1920s. // W R I T T E N B Y K A R I N F A B R Y- C U S H E N B E R Y // P H O T O G R A P H Y B Y J O H N J E R N I G A N
W
aica Micheletti, co-owner of The Thirsty Cobbler and the adjacent Ivy on the Square, has an eye for detail, and when designing the intimate space that would become Ocalaʼs first speakeasy, she pulled her inspiration from the history of the circa 1886 building that once housed a shoe cobbler (hence the name) and a harness store. Waica honored this history through the speakeasyʼs primitive décor reminiscent of the 1920s, a time when prohibition was in full force. “In the main sitting area, youʼll find framed artwork that explains prohibition,” says Waica. “Back in the days of prohibition you couldnʼt have alcohol in the bars, so the patrons would go to the back of a building, a meat store or shoe shop, and give a password to get in where alcohol was served in secrecy. The idea was to speak easy so as to not draw attention to the bar.” That same laid back, quiet atmosphere is present in The Thirsty Cobbler, which has room for about 26 patrons at a time. The sultry, romantic ʻ20s-era music and dim lighting add to the relaxed ambiance. This is not a typical tavern or a loud sports bar. Instead, the brown and gray tones are both classic and subdued, reminiscent of what you might have found a century ago. Waica created the shiplap walls by hand, painting yellow pine boards to give each slat a vintage, different look. She used a similar treatment with brown glaze and a gray patina on the wine barrel labels adorning the bar area. “I found the old wine boxes online in the UK,” says Waica. “It was a tedious process putting the labels together like a jigsaw puzzle, but Iʼm really happy with the final result.” Historic photos of bricklayers were blown up and transferred to canvas to give a nod to the bricklaying process that helped reshape Ocalaʼs downtown area following the Thanksgiving fire of 1883. Brick molds and other memorabilia are strategically placed throughout the speakeasy. In the next room, the bar itself was fashioned out of a piece of heavy furniture. The rounded facade gave Waica the idea to incorporate old wine barrels into the piece to add more curves to the design, and her boyfriend, Wayne, made it happen. The bar surround features vintage carriage doors topped with decorative metal finishings. At The Thirsty Cobbler you wonʼt find generic drinks. The selection includes handcrafted cocktails that more often than not include six to eight ingredients—a splash of this or that. Garnishes were carefully thought out and include everything from dried fruit to historical embellishments. Bartender Billy Pickering worked to create flavors that melded perfectly together—flavors you wonʼt find anywhere else in
Ocala. The Smoked Manhattan is one such flavor. “This is such a unique drink,” says Waica. “Itʼs traditionally made with smoked oak or hickory wood chips. We smoke and serve the martini under a glass dome allowing the drink to absorb the smoky flavor of the wood chips. When you take off the glass it actually smokes a bit.” Another favorite is destined to be The Real McCoy. This rum-based cocktail packs a punch and is based on William McCoy, a famous rum smuggler. The tropical, sweet tiki mix and special garnish complete the experience. “Ocala doesnʼt have anything like The Thirsty Cobbler,” says Waica, “and I think weʼre ready for it. The concept fit really well with what we wanted to bring to the downtown area. We preserved the history of the building but added a modern-age spin to it.” The Thirsty Cobbler // 11 East Ft. King Street, Ocala // Find the daily password on The Thirsty Cobblerʼs social media sites. Editorʼs Note: The owners of The Thirsty Cobbler made the conscious decision to push back their grand opening in order to do their part to help curb the spread of the coronavirus. When restrictions are lifted and normalcy resumes, support our local small businesses and plan a trip to Ocalaʼs newest nightspot, The Thirsty Cobbler.
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The Local Flavor Restaurant news, menu changes and opening details to keep your palate up to date. // W R I T T E N & C O M P I L E D B Y M E L I S S A P E T E R S O N
Morevino Please
11 East Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala // (352) 304-5100 // morevinowine.com Opened in February on the Ocala downtown Square, Morevino offers a full menu of starters, handheld sandwiches, salads, pasta and entrées like the Macadamia Crusted Grouper, Wild Mushroom Risotto or Boneless Short Ribs. There are even kid options for the youngest diners. From the drink menu, choose one of the craft cocktails, including the Blue Morevino, Southern Magnolia or Golden Dragon. Also on the menu are the Infinite Ale Works West Floridian and Raspberry Witfinite draft beers. If youʼre visiting between 4:30 and 6:30pm daily, youʼll enjoy the happy hour menu, which offers a variety of light options, such as hummus, loaded tots, focaccia bread and a lovely little dish titled Cheese Please—we canʼt wait to try it!
4414 SW College Rd., #600, Ocala // (352) 421-9593 // theshuckinshack.com The Shuckinʼ Shack Oyster Bar opened in early March at Market Street at Heath Brook in Ocala. The restaurant specializes in fresh steamed and raw seafood, including oysters, shrimp, clams, crab legs and mussels, plus wings, salads, tacos and more. Shuckinʼ Shack grew out of a vision for a local establishment that would appeal to families of all ages. Itʼs a place where friends and family can enjoy a great meal of primarily oysters and shrimp and creative cocktails in an environment that exudes relaxation.
Celebrating 6
1053 NE 14th St., Ocala, FL 34470 // (352) 509-3661 // formaggiopizzaocala.com Formaggio Pizza & Italian Restaurant is celebrating its sixth anniversary on April 5—thatʼs six years of award-winning pizza, homemade lasagna, fresh salads and more. Co-owner Michael Terriaca has been in the food business for what seems like his whole life. From growing up in his parentsʼ deli in Boston to starting Formaggio Pizza with Sandra Brown in 2014, itʼs always been a dream of his to own and operate a well-loved neighborhood restaurant. In 2019 they joined forces with Scott Barwick, who also has many years of experience in the restaurant industry, and moved into their newly remodeled, larger location, allowing the duo to serve more happy customers and make sure everyone leaves feeling happy and satisfied. Come to Formaggio Pizza and see what everyoneʼs raving about!
SUPPORT LOCAL RESTAUR ANTS Letʼs admit it, with the coronavirus on everyoneʼs mind, weʼve all spent a ton of time sequestered in our homes. If you need a break from cooking at this point but youʼre not sure about venturing out, consider the other ways you can support our local restaurants. You might be surprised how many of your favorite restaurants offer delivery or curbside takeout, where they will bring your meal right to your car. Or, if you prefer not to leave the house and the restaurant youʼre craving doesnʼt deliver, consider looking into a food delivery service, such as Bite Squad, DoorDash, BringMeThat, Uber Eats or Grubhub. And many of these services have policies in place that allow you to make a note in your order to request that the driver leave your order at the door rather than meet someone face to face. In a time when weʼve been asked to separate ourselves from the things we enjoy, at least we have these options for still being able to show our support to our communityʼs restaurant owners.
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Shuckinʼ Shack photo courtesy of theshuckinshack.com; Morevino photo by John Jernigan
Get Shuckinʼ
PLEASE CONTINUE TO SHOW YOUR SUPPORT FOR OUR LOCAL RESTAURANTS THIS MONTH BY ORDERING VIA CURBSIDE PICKUP OR YOUR PREFERRED DELIVERY SERVICE.
TONY’S SUSHI JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE
BRAISED ONION
3405 SW College Road, Ocala (352) 237-3151 // tonysushiocala.com Mon-Thurs 11am-10pm // Fri-Sat 11am-11pm // Sun 12-10pm
754 NE 25th Ave., Ocala// (352) 620-9255 Tue-Thur 11:30am-9pm // Fri-Sat 11:30am-10pm Sun 11:30am-8pm // Mon Closed
When youʼre craving authentic Japanese food with a modern twist, a trip to Tonyʼs Sushi is in order. With dishes like sushi rolls, teriyaki and stir fry, Tonyʼs is sure to become a go-to source for great food in a relaxed atmosphere. If youʼre feeling adventurous, ask about the off-menu rolls or take a seat at the hibachi grill tables. At Tonyʼs, only the freshest ingredients are used and presentation is key. On your next visit, treat yourself to one of Tonyʼs specialty cocktails, like the Blue Hawaiian, or a decadent dessert. The tempura ice cream and Thai donuts are always crowd pleasers.
Whether dining with your family or impressing a new client over lunch, youʼll experience Braised Onionʼs “Comfort Food With Attitude” every time you visit. Begin your meal with the gluten-free Poached Pear Salad with citrus, cinnamon and brown sugar poached pear in a raspberry balsamic vinaigrette. Join us for our Easter buffet, featuring a carving station compete with prime rib, ham and turkey breast. With a unique blend of savory and sophisticated, let Braised Onion be the restaurant you visit for every occasion. Make your reservations today!
MARK’S PRIME STEAKHOUSE & SEAFOOD
CHARLIE HORSE RESTAURANT
30 S Magnolia Ave., Ocala // (352) 402-0097 // 201 SE 2nd Ave., Gainesville // (352) 336-0077 // marksprimesteakhouse.com // Mon 5-9pm // Tue-Sat 5-10pm // Sun available for private parties
2426 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala // (352) 622-4050 // ocalacharliehorse.com // Mon-Sun 11am-1:30am
Markʼs Prime wants to create a sophisticated and unique dining experience that will please the palate and soothe the soul. Markʼs Prime serves only the finest beef, freshest seafood, premium wines and a diverse stock of bourbons and scotch. Visit Markʼs Prime during Primetime Happy Hour and get great drink and appetizer specials Monday-Saturday from 5-7pm. They are pleased to have been serving the finest quality dining experience since November 2002 and hope to see you very soon at one of their two great locations in Gainesville or Ocala.
An Ocala landmark since 1983. The newly remodeled Charlie Horse keeps the same local restaurant/bar feel that everyone has known for over 37 years. A new, exciting menu featuring the staples for which the Charlie Horse has been known: freshly made Angus burgers and jumbo chicken wings. Karaoke seven nights a week starting at 9pm. Live music on the deck Monday starting at 6pm and Friday and Saturday starting at 7pm. Mondays is DJ Bingo at 7pm. Tuesdays is BOGO sandwich night. Trivia every Wednesday at 6:30pm with our $8 Burger & Brew special. Thursday is Wing Night: 20 wings for $12.99 and $8 domestic pitchers. Daily happy hours and late-night specials. APR ‘20
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PLEASE CONTINUE TO SHOW YOUR SUPPORT FOR OUR LOCAL RESTAURANTS THIS MONTH BY ORDERING VIA CURBSIDE PICKUP OR YOUR PREFERRED DELIVERY SERVICE.
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MOREVINO RESTAURANT & BAR
BRUSTER’S REAL ICE CREAM
11 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala (352) 304-5100 // morevinowinebar.com // Tues-Thurs 4:30-10pm // Fri-Sat 4:30-midnight
2707 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala // (352) 622-2110 // brusters.com/ocala // Sun-Thurs 12-10pm // Fri-Sat 12-11pm
Morevino is a new restaurant located on the historic square directly across from the gazebo. Proprietor, chef, sommelier and wine industry veteran Brian Morey has brought his 20-year dream to fruition. Morevino features over 140 fine wines inspired from his journeys around the world. Look for a menu of eclectic dishes from a scratch kitchen with new creations and unique family recipes like Poppyʼs Salmon Pasta. Additionally, Morevino is equipped with a full bar spotlighting unique craft cocktails to include the Ghost of 11 East and Santos Trail Punch. Stop by for Happy Hour from 4:30-6:30pm Tuesday through Saturday.
The weatherʼs heating up, which means itʼs time to head to Brusterʼs to grab a cool treat. Brusterʼs serves all your favorite flavors plus plenty of exciting options, including Coconut Pineapple, Key Lime Pie and Birthday Cake. Make sure you save room to try the Flavors of the Month for April, New York Cheesecake and Southern Banana Pudding. Along with the 24 fresh flavors offered daily, there are also no-sugar-added, fat-free alternatives, frozen yogurts, sherbets and sorbets, shakes, sundaes, splits (half off on Thursdays if you bring your own banana!), blasts, cakes and pies. You can even treat your pup to a free doggie sundae. With all these choices, thereʼs sure to be a cone (or cup) youʼll love!
IVY ON THE SQUARE
EL TOREO
53 S Magnolia Ave., Ocala // (352) 622-5550 //ivyhousefl.com Dining: Tues-Sat 11am-9pm // Tapas & Cocktails: Thurs-Sat 9pm ʻtil... // Sun-Mon Closed
Two Locations: 3790 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala // (352) 694-1401 // Mon-Sun 11am-10pm // 3510 SW 36th Ave. (SR 200), Ocala // (352) 291-2121 // Mon-Sun 11am-11pm
Whether gathering with friends or family, youʼll enjoy fresh salads, mouthwatering comfort food and late-night tapas and drinks. Our specials include Pecan Salmon, Southern Friend Lobster and our famous baked Krispy Chicken and macaroni and cheese. After dining, enjoy a stroll across the street to our boutique where we offer a variety of gifts, jewelry, home décor and clothing. Looking to host a special event or dinner? Talk to one of our staff members today. With the Easter holiday approaching, make reservations for dinner from 11am to 2pm. Looking for delivery? Order through Bite Squad for your favorite meal delivered right to your door.
Come celebrate Cinco de Mayo with us! Head to El Toreo on Thursdays from 7-9pm for Trivia Night (Blvd.) and an authentic Mariachi band (SR 200) from 6-9pm. On Sundays, childrenʼs meals are just $1.95. Lunch specials: $5.45 Taco Salad Mondays, $5.45 Speedy Gonzalez Tuesdays, $7.95 Quesadillas Wednesdays, $6.95 Chimichangas Thursdays and $5.95 Burrito Supremes Fridays. Dinner specials: $10.95 Fajitas Mondays, $8.95 Chimichangas Tuesdays, $9.95 Alambre Wednesdays and $9.95 Tacos de Bistec Thursdays. Margarita specials: $1.95 margarita Mondays, 99 cent margarita Wednesdays and 2-4-1 margarita Saturdays.
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