Ocala Magazine January 2022 digital issue

Ocala’s City Magazine Since 1980 Serving the Horse Capital of the World® $5.95

OCALA MAGAZINE

JAN 2022

Town & Country ISSUE +

2021 Person of the Year: Kevin Sheilley Protecting Ocala’s Horse Farms Pulse: 2022 Goals

Summit ted Just Lis

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White Oak Village Spacious 2 story home includes 5 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, formal dining, and open kitchen family room with access to screen enclosed lanai. Conveniently located to all amenities. $389,000.

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CELEBRATING OUR 41ST YEAR!

JANUARY • 2022 FEATURES 16 Open Spaces, Beautiful Places 24 Town & Country Fashion 34 2021 Person of the Year: Kevin Sheilley 42 OM Pulse DEPARTMENTS 10 Letter from the Publisher 12 Words of Wisdom from Brad Rogers 14 From the Mayor 45 46 47

EAT Game Day Recipe Dining Out

49 PLAY 50 Happenings 52 Society Pages 62 Anthology: Poetry in Motion 64 HOPS Decorating Contest Winners

Town and Country Fashion — p. 24 Photo by Ralph Demilio

ON THE COVER:

Ocala’s City Magazine Since 1980 Serving the Horse Capital of the World® $5.95

Photography: Ralph Demilio OCALA MAGAZINE

JAN 2022

Model: Freya Alex Källebo Styling: Robin Fannon Hair + Makeup: CP Fredrick's Hair Designs On Location at: The Grand Oaks Resort

Town & Country ISSUE +

2021 Person of the Year: Kevin Sheilley Protecting Ocala’s Horse Farms Pulse: 2022 Goals

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67 68

EQUINE Everything Equine: About Louisa Barton

73 74

76

78 80 82 84 88

ETC Charity Spotlight: Project Period of Ocala Health Journal: Reclaim Your Health State of the City State of the County Kiwanis Korner Rotary Circle Looking Back

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Volume 41, Issue 7

JANUARY 2022

OM

OCALA’S #1 MOST AWARD-WINNING CITY MAGAZINE

CELEBRATING OUR 41ST YEAR! Philip Glassman, CCIM | Publisher philip@ocalamagazine.com

Penny Miller | VP/Corporate Development penny@ocalamagazine.com

EDITORIAL Brad Rogers | Contributing Editor brad@ocalamagazine.com

ART Jessi Miller | Creative Director jessi@ocalamagazine.com

Carlton Reese | Senior Writer carlton@ocalamagazine.com

Duane Schor | Marketing +

Multimedia Director duane@ocalamagazine.com

Sharon Raye | Copy Editor Leighton Okus | Social Correspondent Christen Brown | Social Correspondent

PHOTOGRAPHY Ralph Demilio | Chief Photographer ralph@ocalamagazine.com

CONTRIBUTORS Louisa Barton | Equine Columnist Mark Anderson/Marion County | Writer Robin Fannon | Food + Lifestyle Mayor Kent Guinn | Columnist OPERATIONS Randy Woodruff, CPA | CFO randy@ocalamagazine.com

Ocala Magazine Wins Five 2021 Florida Magazine Association Awards!

EDITORIAL OR ADVERTISING INQUIRIES 352.622.2995

www.ocalamagazine.com OFFICIAL MEDIA PARTNER HOPS — Historic Ocala Preservation Society MEDIA PARTNER & PRESENTING SPONSOR of the Tailgating Competition at Live Oak International OFFICIAL MEDIA SPONSOR FOR 2021 International Women's Day Celebration EXCLUSIVE MEDIA SPONSOR FOR George Albright Annual Golf Tournament OFFICIAL MEDIA SPONSOR FOR FINE ARTS FOR OCALA

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Horse Capital of the World® is a registered trademark of the Florida Thoroughbred Breeders’ & Owners’ Association.

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LETTER

from the publisher

When our kids set a great example THE CHARITIES WE ARE PROUD TO SHOWCASE here at OM have always shined a light on just what a generous and loving community we have here, full of people who selflessly give of their time and money in the hopes of enriching the lives of their fellow citizens. Up to now, we have always focused on organizations that are either national in scope, but local in action, or are born and bred here in Marion County and operate as 501(c)3 nonprofits. Either way, they are operated by local adults who are professionals in their own fields and seek to give in other ways.

In this month’s issue, we’re not focused on a group of adults, but on kids who are taking that same initiative to help their neighbors in need. The giving spirit is alive and well among the young people of Marion County and one example is this month’s Charity Spotlight: Project Period of Ocala.

I think we can all be proud of the many organizations run by young adults in town, not just for what they do but for how they symbolize the character of our kids. The group of youngsters from Vanguard High School with Project Period of Ocala are one of several charitable groups run by kids and serves as an example for us all.

Project Period’s mission is to help alleviate the stigma that often comes with feminine hygiene as well as providing feminine products to those in need. As an adult male, I can admit that this is a cause that does not immediately come to my mind and, of course, this is one of the reasons such an organization is needed. A man doesn’t think twice about going into the store to by shampoo or deodorant for his wife, but turn that into the purchase of tampons and all of a sudden it becomes a mission of secrecy and embarrassment. Hygiene is hygiene and Project Period is trying to alleviate the scorn and embarrassment that takes place when the inevitable accidents occur.

Feminine products can be quite expensive, but are as necessary as clothes and food.

When a high school girl lacks products and begins her period, there is a temptation to forgo school and the possible shame that could happen as opposed to making the needed purchases. This is reason enough for Project Period’s collecting of tampons and pads to get into the hands of the needy.

When I think of these kids, I tend to think the future may be in good hands after all.

WE WELCOME A NEW YEAR AND I AM OPTIMISTIC about the direction we are all headed! My hope is that 2022 brings health and prosperity to all in the community and I do believe we have all earned it after the past couple years mired in a pandemic.

I think taking a positive outlook at what the new year can bring is the only way to dive into the future – a positivity breeds positivity and can generate the results and way of life we all crave. Healthy family and friends mean more than anything and I am looking forward to a new year that will deliver on that promise!

PHILIP GLASSMAN, PUBLISHER

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words of wisdom

And the survey says... protect our farmlands

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employment opportunities, and homelessness, drug abuse and crime.

This is hardly a new discussion. For more than a generation there has been fretting that Ocala’s urban sprawl would someday overtake our signature horse farms. And, of course, everyone loves the picturesque beauty of our horse farms, not to mention the equine industry’s $2 billion-a-year (and growing) local economic impact.

So, The Matrix Group asked survey takers if they agreed or disagreed with the following statement: “Marion County’s Farmland Preservation Area is home to some of the richest soils and pristine fresh water aquifers in the world. It is crucial that we maintain this area and its resources to ensure that our legacy as the Horse Capital of the World will remain for future generations.”

Well, 90.2 percent said they agreed. I suspect they also support Mom and apple pie. But for local policymakers like those on the County Commission and the Ocala City Council, the overwhelming strength of that response should give them pause the next time they consider moving the Urban Service Boundary into horse country or chip off a piece of the Farmland Preservation Area for a favored developer’s project.

BY BRAD ROGERS We are blessed here in Ocala/Marion County to have a booming economy, a beautiful place to live, new residents moving in every day, a diversified economy and, of course, spectacular horse farms. We seemingly have it all.

But having it all means managing it all. Luckily, we have loads of space to keep growing without building roads or distribution centers where horse pastures exist today.

As the CEP’s head honcho Kevin Sheilley told the Conservation Summit crowd: “We can literally have it all. We can maintain amazing farmland areas. We can maintain a beautiful natural forest. We can have a strong urban core. We can grow our population. We can have industrial corridors.

And all those can exist together, and, quite frankly, they can exist fairly well.”

To paraphrase the great football coach Vince Lombardi, getting to the top is the easy part. Staying there is the hard part. We’re riding high and seemingly we have it all. Staying on top will require protecting it all, starting with what makes Ocala/Marion County world-famous.

This is hardly a new discussion. For more than a generation there has been fretting that Ocala’s urban sprawl would someday overtake our signature horse farms.

Photos by Ralph Demilio

S

aying that 2021 was a good year for Ocala/Marion County just doesn’t quite do the year justice. After all, the Census Bureau declared us the 10th fastest-growing metro area in the country. U.S. News & World Report, in its annual lists of Best Places to Live, declared our community the 4th safest place, the 6th best place to retire and 16th best small metro in which to live and work.

Even U-Haul couldn’t ignore booming Ocala, placing it in its Top 25 Cities for Growth in both 2019 (No. 3) and 2020 (No. 6).

Not bad. As all this is happening, houses and warehouses are going up at a frenzied pace as an estimated 150 new residents move into Ocala/Marion County every week, and the population pushes 380,000.

If it sounds like a chamber of commerce kind of year, well, it was. Yes, even the Ocala Metro Chamber & Economic Partnership notched a high ranking when it was named the No. 1 chamber of commerce in the U.S. by the folks who run such organizations. Indeed, success breeds success.

So, where do we go from here? To get some idea, the CEP, in conjunction with the recent Horse Farms Forever Conservation Summit, commissioned a survey to find out what local residents think about all the growth.

What the survey, conducted by the market research firm The Matrix Group, found was the 1,200-plus survey respondents love living in the Horse Capital of the World and are worried that all this growth will slowly encroach on and destroy, as Horse Farms Forever calls it, “the open spaces and beautiful places” that make Ocala/Marion County unique.

In fact, among the issues presented to survey participants, preservation of land and natural resources, was their top concern. That was followed, in order, by transportation and traffic, population growth, housing availability and affordability, economic development,

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MAYOR

from the

Rugby gets a leg up in Ocala

BY MAYOR KENT GUINN

T

he sports that have long dominated the local landscape here have been football, baseball, basketball, golf, tennis and bowling – the usual suspects. As Ocala has grown, we have seen other sports enter the local conscience and broaden the scope of athletic opportunity for its citizens.

We have seen a rise in the popularity of soccer, particularly at the youth level, as well as sports such as lacrosse, which are now offered as sanctioned team sports at the high school level.

The next of the up-and-coming team sport is in its infancy, but its growth seems limitless: Rugby.

Until the end of 2020, the sport of rugby was as synonymous with Ocala as sumo wrestling or cricket, but the sport is starting to gain some traction thanks to its newest club, the Ocala Gladiators Rugby Club.

What started out as just five men getting together who love the sport has now grown into 25 players who are now part of the Florida Rugby Union, competing in Division 4 reserved mainly for beginning clubs. This past month, the Gladiators beat a club team from the University of Florida and in January will begin its regular season schedule.

Austin Putzeys, who played rugby while attending the University of North Florida, is one of the club’s founders along with Nick Hatcher, who played at Florida Atlantic University, and Tyler Lopez, who was a player back in Ireland.

“Ninety percent of the team had never played before,” Putzeys said. “All had either a football background, or baseball, lacrosse or soccer. We recruit guys from any background.”

Rugby is a tough sport, much like football but without all the protective gear. The ball is shaped much like a football and players evade tacklers to run and score across a goal line (called a “try” in rugby), which looks familiar to football fans.

It is estimated that there are around a half-billion fans of the sport across the globe, making it among the top-10 most popular sports, with numbers akin to baseball.

In Ocala, the Gladiators club is a first step toward reaching some bigger goals. Just as the sport of lacrosse gained a foothold in Ocala through startup clubs but is now sanctioned in the high schools, rugby can do the same – and Putzeys sees that in the future.

“Our main goal is to incorporate rugby into the youth, transition into high school and maybe start an Ocala team in high school,” Putzeys said. “We’d also like to expand to the women’s side. We want rugby to be the biggest thing in Ocala.”

For now, the Gladiators win games and travel to face other teams in Gainesville, Daytona and Tallahassee. As the club grows and competes at higher divisions, they would face teams from Tampa, Orlando and Miami.

Home games are played at Brick City Park and Putzeys notes the attention from fans.

“We have hundreds of fans at home games – Brick City is almost packed in the bleachers, and we have fans that travel with us to away games.

“The rugby culture is growing in Ocala.”

The Gladiators are always welcoming newcomers to the sport, who need just cleats, a mouthguard and a willingness to learn the basics from the coaches on hand in order to join.

Those interested can follow the club on Instagram at ocalagladiatorsrfc or may phone Putzeys at 352-817-9459.

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Open Spaces, Beautiful Places

Horse Farms Forever aims to preserve Ocala’s horse farms and its global brand as Horse Capital of the World

BY BRAD ROGERS PHOTOGRAPHY BY RALPH DEMILIO

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W

hen a 2015 economic impact study by the Metro Ocala Chamber and Economic Partnership showed that the equine industry generates more than $2.5 billion – that’s billion with a b – each year for the community, there was a palpable change in the general perception of and relationships with the area’s horse businesses.

“I think that number came as a shock to people,” said Busy Shires, director of conservation strategies for the Ocala-based Horse Farms Forever. “What it showed was, this is a land-based economy.”

Indeed, a multibillion-dollar equine industry requires land, and lots of it. But in Ocala/Marion County being a land-based economy does not mean just horse farms. The county also happens to be one of the ten fastest growing metropolitan areas in the country. So, land for business and housing development is also critical to the economic engine. And with 150,000 new residents expected to move in over the next two decades, more and more land is going to be required to meet their needs, both commercially and residentially.

Yet, while the 2015 study illuminated the importance of the equine industry both as a global brand – it is, after all, the Horse Capital of the World – and an economic driver for Ocala, it was in 2018 that the community realized the beautiful rolling pastures and spectacular horses that gallop and graze in them are not safe from encroachment by Florida’s unyielding population growth.

On May 1, 2018, the Florida Department of Transportation announced plans to build a four-lane toll road, known as the Coastal Connector, directly through Marion County’s Farmland Preservation Area, home to some of the county’s, indeed the country’s, most iconic horse farms. It was a community gut punch that drew immediate howls of protest from the equine and environmental communities, which were quickly joined by the local business and political leadership to stop the project, which they did.

“It was the first time that they realized that their livelihoods were at risk,” Shires said.

The FDOT contractor that had drawn the proposed highway route only saw open farmland on the map, making for a seemingly unencumbered path for the proposed tollway. They never took the time, however, to actually drive the route and look at that farmland that would be impacted – if they had, they would have realized this was not just some more open Florida farmland.

The threat of the toll road caused the horse, business and political communities to band together in common cause. The result was the formation of Horse Farms Forever, led by some of the best-known names in Florida’s equine industry and bolstered by a business community with a newfound realization that the equine industry accounts for about one-fourth of Metro Ocala’s economy.

“It brought the community together,” Shires said. “And it allowed us to have those important conversations about what Marion County should look like.”

THE CONVERSATION CONTINUES On Nov. 23, Horse Farms Forever held its second Conversations about Conservation Summit at Ocala Breeders Sales. People from every segment of the community attended the event that drew 40 co-sponsors and 400 attendees – testament to the influence of the equine industry and the newly heightened awareness of its vulnerability to the pressures of growth.

Legendary horse breeder Charlotte Weber of Live Oak Stud farm was honored during the summit with the first-ever Acorn Conservation Award to recognize individuals who have made significant contributions to the preservation of horse farms in Marion County.

“I hope I can inspire many people

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around the county and on the County Commission about how important the land is,” Weber said.

“I came here as many of you did because it was rural, it was quiet… Now I drive around, and you see 10,000 homes going up.”

It was a theme that was reiterated time and again during the summit. Horse Farms Forever President Bernie Little noted that “without horse farms, there can’t be horses.”

“To use an analogy, these beautiful horse farms are Ocala’s ocean and its beautiful oaks are its coral reef,” Little told the audience. “They need to be protected.”

The focus of Horse Farms Forever’s conservation effort is the county’s Farmland Preservation Area. Located in the northwest quadrant of Marion County, the FPA is 193,000 acres of rural countryside and the greatest concentration of the area’s horse farms. It was set aside by the County Commission in 2004 with special protections, including a 10-acre lot size minimum.

The keynote speaker for the Conservation Summit was John Malone, owner of Bridlewood Farm here in Ocala. Malone is the majority stockholder in Liberty Media, which owns an eclectic array of companies from the Atlanta Braves and the Formula One Group

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to Home Shopping Network and QVC. He owns 2.2 million acres of crop, ranch and woods lands in Maine, New Hampshire, Wyoming, New Mexico, Colorado and, of course, Florida, making him the largest private landowner in the United States, the majority of which is in conservation.

Malone, who resides in Colorado, called for stronger preservation efforts of Marion County horse farms, reminding the audience that “the open spaces and beautiful spaces,” as Horse Farms Forever calls them, are limited and irreplaceable.

“Once it develops, it doesn’t get open again,” Malone said of Marion County’s unique landscape. “It becomes prohibitive, so we thought it was a good idea to join in local activities to try and see what kind of preservation of this openness could be sustained within Marion County.”

AND THE SURVEY SAYS …

As part of the Conservation Summit, Horse Farms Forever and other sponsors teamed up with the Metro Ocala Chamber & Economic Partnership to conduct a Quality of Life Survey that focused on major issues facing Marion County – population growth, economic development, employment oppor-

“These beautiful horse farms are Ocala’s ocean and its beautiful oaks are its coral reef. They need to be protected.”

—BERNIE LITTLE

Marion County is: • The 4th Safest Place to Live • The 6th Fastest Growing Place • The 6th Best Place to Retire • The 16th Best Small Metro tunity, preservation of land and natural resources and transportation and traffic.

The findings were presented by Kevin Sheilley, CEO and president of the CEP, and reinforced the theme of the day – to preserve and protect Marion County’s horse farms and equine industry.

Sheilley started out by noting that “preserving the Farmland Preservation Area is key to protecting our community.” And doing that, he said, will be a challenge, given that Marion County’s population is expected to grow from 380,000 today to 400,000 in 2024 and 500,000 in 2040. Marion County is the 10th fastest-growing metropolitan area, out of 400 metro areas, in the United States.

He said that growth is being spurred by the community’s appeal to outsiders, who are moving in at a rate of 150 per week. U.S. News and World Report, in its most recent Best Places to Live survey, found that Marion County is: • The 4th Safest Place to Live • The 6th Fastest Growing Place • The 6th Best Place to Retire • The 16th Best Small Metro.

“I think that all goes to quality of life,” he said.

Beyond pure quality of life factors, Shei-

lley said Ocala/Marion County will continue to grow because it is located within a day’s drive of 34 million people. It sits halfway between Miami and Atlanta, halfway between Tampa Bay and Jacksonville, and serves as a hub to a nearly unmatched number of highways, especially Interstate 75, which carries about 100,000 vehicles a day, including 70 percent of all truck traffic in Florida.

Those factors are making Ocala not only an expanding logistics and distribution hub, but also a rapidly growing center for office and information technology businesses.

In fact, he said, Ocala is No. 1 in the nation in the number of entrepreneurs per capita and they require office space.

Health care continues to grow in the market, and today is the largest employment sector and the one with the highest average wage. Sheilley noted that AdventHealth and HCA alone have invested $500 million in the past five years in new facilities, equipment and technology.

Even in the midst of the pandemic, Sheilley noted, the county reported record tourist tax revenues, thanks largely to the new World Equestrian Center.

But for all that varied economic news, Sheilley said Ocala remains known around

the world as the Horse Capital of the World.

That is our community’s global brand, and it is a brand that must be protected and preserved.

The CEP’s Quality of Life Survey, which had more than 1,200 participants from across Marion County, asked what issue residents believe is the most important one facing the community. No. 1 was “preservation of land and natural resources.” Following that, in order, was transportation and traffic, population growth, housing availability and affordability, economic development and employment opportunities.

Survey respondents also were asked if they agree or not with the following: “Marion County’s Farmland Preservation Area is home to some of the richest soils and pristine fresh water aquifers in the world. It is crucial that we maintain this area and its resources to ensure that our legacy as the Horse Capital of the World will remain for future generations.”

More than 90 percent said they agree with the statement, while only 2 percent disagreed.

Sheilley said the way to protect the 193,000-acre Farmland Preservation Area is to ensure that the Urban Service Area – a boundary designating the urban areas from the rural parts of metro Ocala – and especially the ur-

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“People move here to see that view, and I believe people will be willing to pay to protect that view.” ban core, remains strong and vibrant. Currently, within the Ocala Urban Service Area, there are 55,000 acres of undeveloped land, and that should provide plenty of space for long-term growth of the community. Infill of existing undeveloped urban land is what the business community must focus on, he said.

“We can literally have it all,” Sheilley said. “We can have a protected Farmland Preservation Area. We can have a strong urban core. We can have an incredible forest.”

PROTECTING THE FARMLAND What makes the Farmland Preservation and Marion County so special to the equine industry is its soil. Specifically, No. 8 soil, which is predominantly found in the FPA. Shires, of Horse Farms are Forever, said after the Coastal Connector debacle Horse Farms Forever knew it had to do more than rely on the beauty of their farms and the global brand they represent for Ocala to preserve them.

“Beauty alone won’t protect our farms,” she said.

To protect our horse farm heritage and its accompanying equine industry, she said, will require tools that are readily available but will require political will and a public

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willingness to invest in that protection.

What Horse Farms Forever ultimately is advocating is placing more horse farms in preservation through conservation easements.

These are legal instruments that allow a landowner to sell any development rights associated with his property in exchange for perpetual protection from future development.

Shires acknowledges it will be a tricky issue for some in Marion County.

“For Marion County, private property rights are a very sensitive issue,” she said.

That is because while Marion County is home to some massive farms owned by wealthy people, like Weber’s 5,000-acre Live Oak Stud or Malone’s 800-acre Bridlewood Farm, most of the county’s horse farms are smaller and their owners rely on the land value for their future financial security.

That said, Shires said the objective is to make certain conservation easements “make financial sense and provide options.”

There are a number of places around the country that are considered models for successful conservation easement programs, not the least being Fayette County, Kentucky, home of Lexington and that state’s famous thoroughbred industry.

Marion County already has a program

to relocate development rights to limit development in the FPA, but Shires said it doesn’t go far enough.

“Marion County has the right idea with its TDR (transfer of development rights) program,” she said. But there needs to be more specific conservation.

Of course, a strong conservation easement program will cost money, and that is where the conversation gets complex and difficult.

Shires said the 150,000 people expected to move into Marion County over the next two decades are coming, in part, because of our beautiful countryside, our picture-postcard perfect horse farms, what she calls the county’s “viewsheds.” But if we hope to keep them, it will likely cost.

“People move here to see that view, and I believe people will be willing to pay to protect that view,” she said.

There’s plenty of land in Marion County for industrial development and to protect the agricultural lands. But it’s the big open spaces that we need to worry about.”

“To protect our horse farm heritage and its accompanying equine industry will require tools that are readily available but will require political will and a public willingness to invest in that protection.”

Dr. Poonam Warman, M.D. Pulmonary and Internal Medicine

NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS Over the last 20 years, Dr. Poonam Warman, M.D. has served the Ocala community by providing the highest quality medical care in Pulmonary and Internal Medicine.

Dr. Warman obtained her medical education and training from well-respected physicians in her field of medicine at distinguished institutions. Dr. Poonam Warman has a B.A. from Case Western Reserve University and was on the Dean’s List. She received her M.D. from The Ohio State University School of Medicine with High Honors in gross anatomy, embryology, and clinical radiology.

Following medical school, she completed her residency in categorical internal medicine, at the Northeast Ohio College of Medicine. Dr Warman did a Fellowship in Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine at the University of Oklahoma during which time she published a chapter in a Medical Textbook. While Dr. Warman has extensive medical education and training, she still continues to refine her expertise and skills with advanced medical education courses and training for current, stateof-the- art medical care.

Dr. Warman has been invited to lecture by her peers at primary care physician and hospital meetings on issues in pulmonary medicine, including diagnosis and management. Additionally, she served as a subinvestigator for studies and trials for complex matters such as special medical diagnosis of antithrombin, patients with severe sepsis, thromboembolism, and pneumonia.

Furthermore, she is published in the medical publication of Journal of Radiology, with Dr. Bova R. Bennett for her expertise in the use of MRI and CT in the early diagnosis of recurring colon cancer.

Dr. Poonam Warman, M.D. For more information, please call our office at

352.369.6139

1500 SE Magnolia Extension, Suite 202, Ocala, FL 34471

Dr. Warman is a highly rated Pulmonologist and Internal Medicine physician, not only from within the medical community and her peers, but more importantly with her patients. When Dr. Warman opened her private practice in Ocala in 2000, she invested all her education, training and heart in her community with the sole purpose of giving high quality medical care. She has always had a passion for helping others to heal and it is reflected in her reviews from patients. One such review states, “My 86 year old mother, my 66 year old sister, (with advanced stage early onset Alzheimers), and I saw Dr. Warman. She is Amazing!

She went out of her way to see my mom every time she was in the hospital. She treated all of us with great dignity and respect.”

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At St Rd 19 & Hwy 42, entrance on 19 At 19 and Hwy42, 42,entrance entrance AtSt. St Rd. Rd 19 19 & Hwy Hwy 42, entrance onon 1919 At St Rd & on 19

On Anna (left) from Neiman Marcus: black cashmere turtleneck and DL 1961 black lamb leather trousers.

UNOde50 bracelet from Shannon Roth Collection On Freya (right) from Neiman Marcus: black cashmere turtleneck and Spanx Black Leggings. Julie Vos ring available at Shannon Roth Collection

Town & Country This month Ocala Magazine teamed up with three iconic luxury brands that evoke the true spirit of "Town and Country" living. Neiman Marcus, the brand that epitomizes opulence and quality, is the shining star of this winter fashion edit. Shannon Roth Collection jumped on board with gorgeous accessories, to put the finishing touch on these looks. Shot on location at central Florida’s most breathtaking equine property, Grand Oaks Resort in Weirsdale, may this feature inspire your new year to be your most stylish yet.

PHOTOGRAPHY: RALPH DEMILIO STYLING: ROBIN FANNON HAIR + MAKEUP: CP FREDRICK'S HAIR DESIGNS MODELS: FREYA ALEX KÄLLEBO AND ANA GRACE SIMON

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| JAN 2022 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

On Freya from Neiman Marcus: Theory mixed cable ivory sweater paired with Alice & Olivia polyurethane trousers.

UNOde50 bracelets from Shannon Roth Collection

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | JAN 2022 |

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On Anna (left) from Neiman Marcus: black cashmere turtleneck and DL 1961 black lamb leather trousers.

Vintage jean jacket.

On Freya (right) from Neiman Marcus: black cashmere turtleneck and Spanx Black Leggings.

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| JAN 2022 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | JAN 2022 |

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On Anna (left) from Neiman Marcus: Alice & Olivia plaid mini dress On Freya (right) from Neiman Marcus: Alice & Olivia camel exaggerated shoulder mini dress. We Dream in Color Sweet Tobago earrings and Julie Vos bracelet and ring from Shannon Roth Collection. Leopard faux fur handbag by Current Air.

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| JAN 2022 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

On Freya (above left) from Neiman Marcus: Theory mixed cable ivory sweater and Alice & Olivia polyurethane trousers On Anna (above right) from Neiman Marcus: Theory sculptured knit olive sweater and Alice & Olivia camel lamb leather trousers. Gucci double G belt. Julie Vos link bracelet from Shannon Roth Collection.

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | JAN 2022 |

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On Freya (left) from Neiman Marcus: Montcler dark pink puffer vest.

On Anna (right) from Neiman Marcus: Blanc Noir faux fur hooded moto vest.

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| JAN 2022 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

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OM 2021

PERSON of the year

Kevin Sheilley Telling Our Story

BY BRAD ROGERS PHOTOGRAPHY BY RALPH DEMILIO

E

verybody likes a good story. And when it’s a feel-good story that is uplifting and about something we are part of, it’s even better.

For Kevin Sheilley, president and CEO of the Metro Ocala Chamber and Economic Partnership, telling the story of Ocala/Marion County is not just one of the joys of his job, it is arguably the most important part of his job, a catalyst for an ever-improving story about an ever-improving community.

That story includes a list of head-turning rankings that place Ocala among America’s best places to live, work and retire. It’s a story that reminds the world that Ocala is the Horse Capital of the World. It’s a story of remarkable population growth, business growth and human growth.

It’s a story about a community that has shed its image as a small, quiet Southern town to become an economically diverse 21st century boomtown that has captured the attention of the nation.

Indeed, it’s an evolving story whose telling brings pride, prominence and prosperity to our community and one that Sheilley tells endlessly and enthusiastically.

For his role in telling our story – and for his critical role in helping write it – Ocala Magazine names Kevin Sheilley its 2021 Person of the Year.

2021 was a particularly good year for Sheilley and the CEP. It received its award for being named the 2020 National Chamber of the Year by the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives early in the year, and Sheilley himself was named state Chamber Executive of the

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OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | JAN 2022 |

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Year by the Florida Association of Chamber Professionals. The national award came after the CEP had been a finalist – among the top three chambers in the nation – three of four years leading up to the win.

Of course, winning such awards requires a resume of results, and the CEP, or at least the community, has delivered those in spades over the past nine years, since its formation out of the merger of the old Chamber of Commerce and the Economic Development Corp. and Sheilley’s arrival.

Rising out of the ashes of the Great Recession, during which Ocala was among the worst hit communities in the country, has come a downtown renaissance, the build-out of one industrial park, the addition of national corporations like FedEx, AutoZone, Chewey and Dollar Tree and now the opening of the World Equestrian Center, further burnishing Ocala’s equine dominance.

U.S. News & World Report lists Ocala among the top 10 places for safety, quality of life and to retire. The Census Bureau lists it among the ten-fastest growing metropolitan areas in the country. And companies are flocking here because of Ocala’s strategic location – 34 million people live within a day’s drive – and its low cost of living.

In addition, the CEP has partnered with private and public groups to create youth development programs, entrepreneurship programs in poverty-stricken areas and coordinating community business survival programs during the pandemic.

So, we asked Sheilley, why all the success?

“Sometimes just telling the story,” said the 49-year-old Sheilley. “I spend a lot of time telling the story.”

Sheilley has 27 years in the chamber business, in his native Kentucky and Tennessee before arriving in Ocala in 2012. He acknowledges that some of the success he and the CEP have seen during his tenure here is the result of being in the right place at the right time.

“I understand the location value (of Ocala),” he said. “Timing is just timing – luck.”

He said the toughest part of the last 10 years in Ocala has been overcoming the previous 10 years.

“When you talked to people, they had such a negative sense of place,” he said. “But that has changed dramatically. We don’t talk

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U.S. News & World Report lists Ocala among the top 10 places for safety, quality of life and to retire. about Slocala or Nocala anymore. There’s genuinely a sense that things can happen.

“Ocala’s negative self-esteem was palpable when I arrived. Now, when we have people in, they say this is a place where they sense things happening.”

The opening of the Ocala/Marion County Commerce Park at the U.S. 27-Interstate 75 interchange sparked that transformation. With 2.5 million square feet of distribution center space and names like FedEx, AutoZone and Chewey as tenants, Sheilley said it is just the start of bigger things. In fact, he said that over the next year, plans are in place to build twice that much warehouse space here.

“By this time next year, we’ll have another 5 million square feet, and I envision the majority of that will be leased,” he said.

The opening of the World Equestrian Center and the coming of the F.A.S.T., or Florida Aquatic and Swimming Training complex, at the new 5,000-home Calesa community being built by On Top of the World Communities are also providing new tourism destinations that Ocala has lacked since the decline of Silver Springs as a Florida tourism icon.

“It’s about showing that we’re not a small town anymore,” Sheilley said. “We haven’t been a small town in decades. We need to embrace who we are, not who we were many, many decades ago.”

And, he said, the evidence of that change is easy to see.

“All one has to do is go down to the square and look around. You have a Golden

Spoon restaurant, you have a new hotel, you have streets filled with restaurants and bars.

You look around and say, ‘Wow!’ You can be downtown on a Tuesday night and there’s stuff going on.”

Yes, it’s a great story to tell.

While Ocala/Marion County’s fortunes have soared since Sheilley’s arrival, it’s not all about work for the husband and father of three. Besides his official CEP duties, Sheilley sits on a number of charitable and community boards and participates in community fund raisers and other activities. And he likes to have fun doing it.

Maybe one of his most memorable moments, by his own account, was at the inaugural Ocala Lip Sync Challenge when he sang a Whitney Houston tune … decked out in a leopard skin-print dress, fishnet stockings and a hot pink boa.

Outgoing CEP Chairwoman Angie Lewis says Sheilley’s sense of humor is part of what makes him such an effective leader.

“Kevin is one of those leaders who walks the walk,” Lewis wrote in a nomination letter for Sheilley’s Florida Chamber Executive of the Year award. “He is a master of communication and persuasion with a fun sense of charm. He has the ability to inspire, excite and spark enthusiasm among his team, volunteers and the community with his always-clear vision of the CEP’s goals and mission. The ‘why’ is consistently communicated with each action.”

“He emphasizes ‘we’ versus ‘me’ every time, but especially when the spotlight is brightest,” she added.

The Metro Ocala Chamber and Economic Partnership won the 2020 National Chamber of the Year award from the Association of Chamber Commerce Executives. Photo courtesy of the CEP.

Kevin Sheilley accepts the winner’s trophy from Ocala Mayor Kent Guinn after winning the inaugural Ocala Lip Sync Challenge in 2016 after belting out, or rather, lip-syncing a Whitney Houston tune.

Local Chick-fil-A franchise owner Jeromy Williams hailed Sheilley’s leadership, often just by being present.

“I’ve found it’s easy for community leaders to fire up the troops, but it’s another thing entirely when they’re the ones out front leading the charge,” Williams said. “Somehow, Kevin seems to be everywhere in Ocala when a major decision is about to be made, whether at a School Board hearing or before a County Commission vote. He’s also often there for a ribbon cutting for the smallest business as well as the largest expansions, and he’s equally excited at either one.”

Sheilley, one of four children and a twin, grew up in a household with a father who was a CEO. In an article he wrote earlier this year on fatherhood, he said he learned much of his leadership style from his father.

“Don’t get upset by the little stuff, he’d say,” Sheilley wrote. “Let’s talk about the big things – the things you can impact, the things you can influence.”

Sheilley’s sense of humor is part of what makes him such an effective leader.

So, with all the success he has enjoyed leading the CEP in Ocala, what does the future hold for Sheilley and Ocala?

Well, he said he and his wife, Lisa, just bought a new home – so he is planning on staying in Ocala. The Sheilleys have three children, Trae, 28, David, 20, and Rachel, a senior at Forest High.

As for Ocala’s future …

Sheilley said he expects the local economy to continue to boom and diversify.

Specifically, he said there will be “a lot more industrial,” including food, bio-pharma and medical device manufacturing and research and development.

“We have the opportunity in the next 10 years to build a health care sector that is above and beyond just providing care to the area,” he said.

He also sees the College of Central Florida continuing to grow and play an increasing role in the community’s economic development. That, however, will require

finding “a local solution” to get CF the resources it needs.

“I think CF does an incredible job,” he said. “I think if the state treated them right, it would be amazing what they could do.”

Moreover, he says cultivating a regional image and identity over the decade are crucial to Ocala’s future.

“Here’s what’s most important for the next 10 years for our long-term success,” he said. “We have to build a regional identity, regional coalitions. We have to build a regional identity here to help our lawmakers in Tallahassee.”

But the bottom line, to quote the CEP’s omnipresent mission, is Ocala/Marion County is going to continue “moving forward” with a story worth telling.

“You’re going to continue to see this economy grow and continue to diversity.”

Congratulations to Kevin Sheilley, Ocala Magazine’s Person of the Year, and thanks for telling our community’s compelling story to all who will listen.

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | JAN 2022 |

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SETTING A NEW STANDARD OF CARE FOR CANCER TREATMENT

Advanced treatment options offer faster, more precise radiation therapy If you are diagnosed with cancer, it’s important to learn about all of your treatment options. Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute (FCS) is at the forefront of science and research, providing the most up-to-date treatments personalized for your unique needs.

Shorter courses of radiation treatment are quickly becoming the standard of care for prostate, lung, breast, bone and brain cancers. These advanced options are available from FCS, many offered exclusively in Marion County.

Targeting tumors with greater precision Successful radiation therapy depends on delivering the proper amount of radiation to the cancer in the best and most effective way, destroying cancer cells while sparing healthy tissue.

A treatment technique known as hypofractionation delivers the total dose of radiation more precisely and in fewer sessions, compared to standard radiation therapy. Patients can complete their course of radiation therapy much faster with optimal outcomes and a better overall experience.

Shorter treatments for prostate and lung cancer One in six American men can expect to develop prostate cancer in their lifetime; the average age at diagnosis is 66. The good news is that the survival rate is extremely high, thanks to a range of advanced treatment options.

Traditional prostate treatments are time intensive (typically requiring daily treatment for nine weeks).

Recent clinical trials have demonstrated that the use of shorter treatment schedules (daily treatment for five weeks) results in similar positive outcomes, no increase in side effects, fewer trips and less expense. In select cases, another emerging treatment — stereotactic body radiotherapy — can be delivered in as few as five treatments as an alternative to surgery for patients with prostate cancer and early-stage lung cancer.

Advanced technology [to better target tumors] offered exclusively in Ocala Advanced techniques use SpaceOAR gel to reduce the risk of rectal damage during prostate radiotherapy.

FCS is the only provider in Ocala offering SpaceOAR to protect healthy rectal tissue.

Breast Cancer FCS is the only cancer center in the area to provide two modern treatment techniques that protect the heart during radiation treatment for breast cancer. Traditional methods of blocking the heart may place patients at higher risk for a heart attack. Deep inspiration Breath Hold creates more separation between cancer and the heart, making treatment more precise. This video demonstrates the specialized deep inspiration breath hold technique.

See the technology in action:

FLCancer.com

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Hawthorne Estates:

Stylish Independent Living the way retirement should be

T

ending to the needs of the residents of Hawthorne Estates has been Jeanette Murillo’s job for the past 14 years. Murillo is the assistant property manager of the independent living facility in southwest Ocala and sees her job as being part caretaker and part life enricher.

“As part of the lifestyle that we provide, they’re pretty much independent and we’re pretty much supportive,” she said. “We’re here as a support team.

They’re independent; we’re here to help them.”

Hawthorne Estates, located at 3211 SW 42nd St., Ocala, provides independent living in an affordable, resort-style setting. Its 93 spacious units provide residents with their own residence with an array of services from meals and utilities to recreation and social activities.

“The owners specialize in providing quality living options for seniors,” said Susie Carey, Hawthorne Estates’ onsite property manager.

Retired mechanical engineer Jack Lippo moved into Hawthorne Estates in September and said it has turned out to be much better than he expected.

“It’s a nice place,” said the 86-year-old Lippo, who has written two books on the Bible’s Book of Revelations since retiring and teaches a Bible study group at Hawthorne.

“I like the room I have. I looked at a couple

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| JAN 2022 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

Resident Jack Lippo of other places, but I chose this one because it was newer and closer to (State Road) 200 where my friends and church are.”

Lippo also said Hawthorne is “reasonably priced” compared to other independent living facilities in Ocala and, importantly, “I can come and go as I want.”

He has a studio apartment, which he describes as “a nice, comfortable place.”

“I like it,” Lippo said. “You get two good meals a day and they treat you really good. They’re very kind and they try to help you out if you have a problem.

“It’s turned out better than I expected.”

The Army vet also likes the fact that at Hawthorne Estates, the only bill residents have to pay is for their cell phone.

Resident Jim Stacey All utilities — again, except for your personal phone — are part of the monthly rental package. That means electric, water and sewer, cable TV, wireless internet and trash removal.

Hawthorne residents also can schedule transportation on the facility’s van through the front desk, or they are welcome to have their own vehicle, with free parking on the property.

For those who want to see a doctor without having to leave the facility, Carey said Hawthorne Estates has an outside concierge physician service that will come and treat residents in their homes.

“You don’t even have to leave your apartment and go sit in a doctor’s office,” she said.

One the things resident Jim Stacy likes

two-bedroom units. The apartments have a modern kitchen, individual heating and cooling units, plush wall-to-wall carpeting, a large bathroom with safety features, spacious closets, blinds, screened porches and smoke alarms and a sprinkler system.

For residents of Hawthorne Estates, its all-inclusive living is a major selling point.

Honoring our Veterans Again, two meals a day and all utilities — except for your personal phone -- are part of the package, including electric, water and sewer, cable TV, wireless internet and trash removal.

Assistant Property Manager Hawthorne Estates is a Jeanette has been with smoke-free facility, too.

Hawthorne for 14 years In addition to all that, residents are provided weekly apartment person to greet visitors to Hawcleaning as well as weekly linen service. Launthorne Estates, being a source of dry facilities are located in convenient areas information about Ocala is a big throughout the facility, although personal part of her job. Whether they need Residents enjoying a puzzle home health services or to find a laundry service is also available for an extra fee.

Carey summed Hawthorne Estates living decent car mechanic, she said the by saying, “It’s not what you’re giving up in a Hawthorne Estates staff strives to help resabout living at Hawthorne Estates is the acprivate residence, it’s about what you’re gaining.” idents, many of whom are new to the area, tivities for residents.

Anyone interested in checking Hawnavigate daily challenges. They also keep an “They have a lot of activities,” said Stathorne Estates out is invited to attend any of eye on residents. cy, a retired utility company employee who the Friday night Happy Hours.

“If we notice a resident has a sudden moved to Ocala from Iowa. “They have a change of routine, like they don’t come happy hour (on Fridays), exercise classes, down for breakfast, we go to their room bingo and a substantial free library. and check on the client to make sure ev“I do a lot of reading and they have a erything is OK,” she said. pretty decent library here,” he said.

Murillo said the Hawthorne Estates staff Like Lippo, the 77-year-old Stacy says life sees it as their job to “enrich the lives of resiin Hawthorne Estates is pleasant and the staff dents” by providing them with a safe and enis available and “responsive to residents’ needs.” joyable place to live. She sees Hawthorne Es“I like it here,” he said, noting he moved tates as a sort of “second retirement” for most in five months ago. “The place is clean . They’ve residents, one that should be fun and active. got good staff. I’m pleased with it. They’re good “Eat, sleep and be merry, that is basipeople here. They take care of you. This is as cally what this is,” Murillo said. good of a place as there is around.”

Both Lippo and Stacy said their apartOne of the benefits of Hawthorne Esments at Hawthorne Estates are roomy and tates for Stacy is that his wife, Karen, is a pathe facility provides them housekeeping sertient in the facility’s adjoining nursing home. vice weekly.

By living in Hawthorne Estates, he can visit FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT Residents at Hawthorne Estates have a her anytime.

Hawthorne of Ocala number of options when it comes to what “She likes it over there, and I like that I 3211 SW 42nd St., Ocala kind of apartment they want. They can can see her whenever I want,” he said. hawthornevillageofocala.com choose between studio, one-bedroom and For Murillo, who is likely to be the first (352) 237-7776, ext. 255

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | JAN 2022 |

41

OM PULSE

Each month, Ocala Magazine showcases the tastes, opinions and desires of its readers through its online survey. For January we discovered these insights:

35.7%

OF OM RESPONDENTS SAID THEY WILL BRING IN THE NEW YEAR AT HOME WITH FAMILY WHILE 28.6% SAID THEY WILL ATTEND A PARTY AT A FRIEND’S HOUSE.

28.6 percent of OM respondents said they will be in bed before midnight New Year’s Eve.

HALF OF ALL OM RESPONDENTS SAID THAT THEIR

charitable giving in 2022 WILL EQUAL THEIR AMOUNT OF GIVING FROM 2021.

21.4% of respondents said their charitable giving will come through church tithing while 14.3% said their charitable giving in 2022 will increase to charity organizations.

Looking back at what OM respondents are

most proud from 2021,

typical responses were, “Remaining healthy,” “Personal growth” and “Dedication to family.”

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TYPICAL RESPONSES AMONG OM READERS REGARDING ONE THING TO DO IN 2022 THAT WOULD HAVE GUARANTEED SUCCESS WITH MONEY AS NO OBJECT WERE:

FOR THE SUPER BOWL,

61.5%

OF OM RESPONDENTS SAID THEY WILL WATCH THE GAME AT HOME. 23.1% said they will not watch the game while 15.4% said they will watch the game at a friend’s house.

“Quit my 9-to-5 job and work full time on my social media platform and blog.”

“Start my own company and be my own boss.”

“Help those needing homes during a market of escalating housing costs.”

OM respondents have no clear consensus in regard to New Year’s resolutions.

An equal number of respondents all said resolutions will include losing weight/ healthier lifestyle and spiritual growth. The same number claimed to not make New Year’s resolutions.

BIGGEST HOPES FOR 2022 INCLUDING THESE TYPICAL RESPONSES FROM OM READERS:

“Go back to normal in positive ways.”

“Have free, fair and secure elections.”

“The number of homeless pets in Marion County decreases.”

42.9%

OF OM RESPONDENTS SAID THEY WILL SPEND THE NEW YEAR’S DAY HOLIDAY SPENDING TIME WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS. 21.4% said they plan on being lazy that day while another 21.4% plan on watching football.

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | JAN 2022 |

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HIS Compassion Food Bank POUND FOR POUND, PENNIES FOR FOOD

CHALLENGE

His Compassion Food Bank provides FREE food and product valued at more than $47,500,000. As of November 18, 2021, we have given over 19 million pounds of food and goods to the residents of Marion County, 129 agencies, Marion County Public Schools, area restaurants, dentists, veterinarians, and doctors’ offices. All product has been given free and mostly hauled by our trucks.

We need YOUR help.

During January through April, we challenge the community to match us pound for pound, pennies for food.

To obtain collection jars, contact Joy Guydan at 352-351-0732 or email hiscompassionflorida@gmail.com with questions H H H Donations by check or cash convert to pounds, too! H H H

www.HISCompassionFlorida.org PICK UP FREE FOOD ON TUES & THURS MORNINGS (COME EARLY!) AGENCIES & DELIVERIES MON/WED/FRI at 2000 NE 78th St, Ocala, FL 34479

HIS Compassion Food Bank 352-351-0732

eat

Enjoy fresh Florida oranges, vitamin C is in season for flu season.

Game Night recipe p46 | Dining Out p47

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | JAN 2022 |

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Fan Fare A Winning Recipe to Feed Game Day Fans

BY FAMILY FEATURES, To find more game day recipes,

visit CaciqueInc.com.

S

ettling in for an afternoon of gridiron action calls for football food from dips and appetizers to full-blown feasts. Whether you’re a diehard fan, casual observer or just there for the game time grub, a full day of “homegating” requires flavorful eats to refuel the crowd.

One of the easiest ways to take your menu from benchwarmer to superstar status is to add foods from one of the country’s top authentic Mexican food brands, Cacique, to your playbook. For example, flavor-packed, heaping Cheesy Chorizo Nachos can score a touchdown at your gathering, even among the pickiest of fans. When the game is on the line, call on this dish to keep your team satisfied from kickoff to the final whistle.

Made with crumbly, creamy, pleasantly milky queso fresco; authentic real cheese queso dip that’s ready in minutes; robust, spicy pork chorizo; fresh-tasting Crema Mexicana; and small-batch homestyle salsa, this shareable dish can feed a houseful of hungry fans. Ready in less than an hour, it’s a perfect solution for pregame baking so it’s ready just before the coin toss.

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| JAN 2022 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

CHEESY CHORIZO NACHOS INGREDIENTS » » » » » » » » » » » »

1 package Cacique Pork Chorizo 1 package Cacique Queso Blanco Queso Dip 1 can (15 ounces) refried beans 2 tablespoons water, plus additional, if necessary 1 bag (12 ounces) tortilla chips 1 package Cacique Ranchero Queso Fresco 1/2 cup Cacique Crema Mexicana 1 large jalapeno, sliced thin 2 radishes, sliced thin fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish guacamole, for serving Cacique Mild Homestyle Salsa, for serving

INSTRUCTIONS

• In large nonstick skillet or well-seasoned cast-iron pan over medium-low heat, cook pork chorizo, using spoon to break it up. Stir regularly until completely warmed through and deep brown,

scraping crispy bits from bottom of pan.

• Microwave queso dip 2-3 minutes until heated through.

• In medium bowl, thin refried beans with water.

Beans should be thick but nearly pourable; add additional water 1 tablespoon at a time, if necessary.

• Heat oven to 350 F. • To assemble nachos, add half the tortilla chips to 13-by-9-inch rectangular baking dish. Use spoon to drizzle half the queso dip and half the refried beans evenly over chips, distributing as evenly as possible. Sprinkle with half the crumbled queso fresco. Repeat with remaining chips, queso dip, beans and crumbled queso fresco. Bake 5-8 minutes until crumbled queso fresco softens and queso dip is creamy.

• Remove from oven then drizzle with crema Mexicana and scatter pork chorizo over top.

Garnish with sliced jalapenos, radishes and fresh cilantro. Serve with guacamole and salsa.

EAT

dining out

Ocala is going out!

Advertise with us to connect with our hungry readers.

Call 352.622.2995 and reserve your space.

Ivy On The Square Whether gathering with friends or family for lunch or a night out, you’ll enjoy fresh salads, mouthwatering comfort food, late-night tapas and drinks. Specials include our Pecan Salmon, Southern Fried Lobster and famous baked Krispy Chicken. After dining enjoy a stroll in our boutique where we offer a variety of gifts, jewelry, home decor and clothing. Looking to host a special event or dinner? Call and talk to one of our staff members on the options we have available.

Stop by our new speakeasy bar and enjoy our specialty drinks! Gift certificates available.

53 S. Magnolia Ave., Ocala | (352) 622-5550 Closed Mon, Tues 11am-2pm, Wed 11am-9pm, Thurs 11am-9pm 106 NW Main St., Williston | (352) 528-5410 Sun-Wed 11am-2pm, Thurs-Sat 11am-8pm | ivyhousefl.com

West 82° Bar and Grill IT’S BACK! The best brunch in Citrus County.

Features include a hot/cold station, carving station, omelet station, and an assorted dessert display.

Join us every Sunday unless it’s a holiday.

Ages 1-3 free, 4-12 $17.95, 13 and up $24.95.

Call for more information or to reserve your seat 1.800.632.6262

9301 West Fort Island Trail Crystal River, FL 34429 (352) 795-4211 plantationoncrystalriver.com

The West 82 Bar and Grill offers fun innovative dining options with niche regional and eclectic southern charm. We use the freshest ingredients to include locally caught fresh seafood, Florida beef, as well as locally harvested fruits and vegetables.

Overlooking the beautiful Kings Bay and Crystal River, the West 82 satisfies all of your senses in one place.

Call for reservations and weekly specials.

Breakfast: Monday-Sunday 6-10:30am | Sunday Brunch: 11:30am–2pm Lunch: 11:30am-2pm, Dinner: Daily: 5-9pm 9301 West Fort Island Trail, Crystal River, FL 34429 | (352) 795-4211 www.plantationoncrystalriver.com

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | JAN 2022 |

47

UPCOMING EVENTS

Ocala's home for live entertainment!

National Artists, the Ocala Symphony Orchestra and more!

Artrageous Feb. 5 | 3 PM

10,000 Maniacs Feb. 25 | 7:30 PM

Classic Albums LIVE:

The Beatles' Let It Be Feb. 10 | 7:30 PM

Alan Doyle

March 9 | 7:30 PM

Los Lobos

Feb. 12 | 7:30 PM

90 Years of John Williams

Feb. 19 | 7:30 PM & Feb. 20 | 3 PM

Chris Botti

March 10 | 7:30 PM

Kevin Nealon

March 11 | 7:30 PM

Support provided by:

UPCOMING AT THE MARION THEATRE

Concerts, classic films, special events and more!

The Marion Theatre has something for everyone with a great lineup of movies and live concerts.

Additionally, this unique space is perfect for private film events! Host your next birthday party, company outing, or gather friends to watch your favorite film by renting the theatre.

Scan the QR code with your phone to visit our website with our complete listing of Reilly, Ocala Symphony and Marion Theatre events!

ReillyArtsCenter.com | 352-351-1606 | 500 NE 9th Street

Media Support provided by:

MarionTheatre.org | 352-820-3049 | 50 S Magnolia Ave

play

“The Painted Overlook” by Dan McCarthy Photograph available in various sizes | www visionsbydanmccarthy.com

Happenings p50 | Society p52 | Anthology—Poetry in Motion p62 | HOPS House Decorating Winners p64

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | JAN 2022 |

49

OM Ocala for J Magazine: a

nuary

MIX

Wild Things

AN AWESOMESAUCE EVENT SAT, JAN 15, 7:30 AM – 11:30 PM

Grab your most fun-loving friends and join us for food, fun, friendship, and a little running or walking through the park. With distances up to 50 miles in a low key, laid back atmosphere, with amazing support from our crew, there's something for everyone to enjoy! racemob.com/races/174862-wild-things-anawesomesauce-event Baseline Trailhead Park 4803 SE 58th Ave #4397, Ocala

Bluegrass and BBQ TICKETS ON SALE FRI, JAN 21, 6–9 PM

Enjoy live musical performances by Grammy nominated and International Bluegrass Music Award winning artists The Po’ Ramblin’ Boys as well as local artisans, a cash bar, and barbecue from Big Lee's Serious About BBQ and The Smoked Biscuit Company, among the public art and backdrop of the historic Ocala Union Train Station. www.theporamblinboys.com.

Tuscawilla Art Park | 223 NE Fifth St. Ocala

Wynonna Judd with The Big Noise TICKETS ON SALE THU, JAN 27, 7:30–9 PM

As one-half of the legendary mother/daughter duo “The Judds,” Wynonna was once dubbed by Rolling Stone as “the greatest female country singer since Patsy Cline.” This iconic performer has received over 60 industry awards, with countless charting singles, including 20 No.1 hits such as “Mama He’s Crazy,” “Why Not me,” and “Grandpa, (Tell Me ‘Bout The Good Ole Days). www.reillyartscenter.com/events/wynonna-judd-with-the-big-noise/

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| JAN 2022 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

MONSTER TRUCK NITRO TOUR! and

TICKETS ON SALE JAN 8, 2022, 12:30 AM – JAN 9, 2022, 10 PM

OCALA, FL. will be motorsport entertainment’s epicenter with the nation’s most competitive MONSTER TRUCKS as the Monster Truck Nitro Tour invades the Bubba Raceway Park for FOUR MONSTER shows!

See these incredible 10,000-pound, car crushing giants compete in racing, wheelie contests, and then rock the house with amazing freestyle action during the Monster Truck Nitro Tour! Plus, you can meet the drivers and see the trucks up close at the pre-event Autograph Pit Party!

BUBBA RACEWAY PARK 9050 NW GAINESVILLE RD. OCALA (352) 622-9400

www.BubbaRacewayPark.com

Live On Stage: Around the World in 80 Days TICKETS ON SALE JAN 20, 2022, 7:30 PM – FEB 6, 2022, 4 PM

A trip around the world in 80 days? In 1872?

British explorer Phileas Fogg (Trafton Crandall) can't resist a challenge. So when everyone else says, “It can’t be done” and bets against him, the fearless Fogg simply replies, “Hold my tea” and takes the outrageous wager to do so.

Ocala Civic Theatre (The Marion Players, Inc.) 4337 E. Silver Springs Blvd, Ocala

Atlantic City Blues Brothers TICKETS ON SALE JAN 31, 2022, 7 PM AND FEB 1, 2022, 6 PM

This night of Soul will get the joint jumping with all the hits you know and love, including “Goin’ Back to Miami,” “Soul Man,” “Sweet Home Chicago”, "Everybody needs Somebody to Love" and many more! Plus, the Atlantic City Blues Brothers sometimes features a live Blues set from a special guest artist from the Florida Blues scene.

Ocala Golf Club Showroom 3130 E. Silver Springs Blvd. Ocala

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | JAN 2022 |

51

EVENTS

society

Ocala Symphony Orchestra Opening Night STORY+ PHOTOGRAPHY BY LEIGHTON OKUS | SOCIAL CORRESPONDANT

I

f you have known me, even for a minute, you will likely know just how much I love the Ocala Symphony Orchestra- Opening Night is like Christmas for me! November 20th was an epic night for all of us at the Reilly Arts Center. We celebrated the beginning of the 46th Symphony Season in grand style. After more than a year off, it was exhilarating to have the full orchestra on stage with a full, captive audience! We donned our finest formalwear for the occasion and capped off the night with a champagne reception in the new Black Box Theatre. Everyone was buzzing with excitement about being back at the symphony and getting a sneak peek of the Reilly Expansion!

LA Craven, Jesse Merrill, Anthony and Olivia Ortiz, Anajane Merrill, Armaine Atienza

Andrew Hinkle and Lauren Debick

Zac Jombart and Becky Stamm

Max and Elodie Perron, and Pete Lee

Zak and Peggy Bernard

Catherine Hargrove and Hilary Hoover

Ken and Avery Ausley, Steve and Rebecca Rogers

Carrie Prieto and Stacey Rollins

Jerome and Sandra Wilson

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| NOV 2021 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

Xochitl Smith and Lisa Midgett

Jay and Angi Grabbe

EVENTS

society

Kiwanis of Ocala Annual Pancake Day For The Kids of Marion County PHOTOGRAPHY BY LEIGHTON OKUS

T

he Kiwanis Club of Ocala celebrated it's Annual 2021 Pancake Day event recently at the 8th Street Elementary School. The Reilly Arts Center and Ocala Symphony Orchestra graciously provided musicians to play Holiday music, making the day even more lively and festive. The City of Ocala brought in special guest, Santa Claus himself. Over 1200 meals were served along with 28 sponsors plus inkind sponsors. All proceeds go to the Camp Kiwanis for Kids Scholarship Program.

Sponsors: Creative Beginnings Preschool Document Technologies Ocala Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center Keifer Insurance Conimar Group Ocala Family Medical Center MidFlorida Credit Union Stone Petroleum Lawrence Sutton, DDS NC and Shelly Sizemore Walter Markowski Edwards Jones Investments Paul Conley Stentiford Construction Services, Inc. Linda Paige Principal Financial Group Karob Instrument, Inc. The Guest House Air Design Grand Oaks Dental Care

Kiwanis Volunteer Pancake Chefs

Roseann Fricks Early Learing Coalition Clardy Oil Company Warren's Power Washing Ocala Electric Utility Slack Construction, Inc. Kathy Bryant County Commissioner The Crane Financial Group In-Kind Sponsors: Sonny's Barbecue Burger King of Ocala Unifirst Corporation Marion County Board of Education Eighth Street Elementary Borden Dairy Woods Printing AmeriGas Corporation Reilly Arts Center Ocala Symphony City of Ocala Ocala Magazine, Media Sponsor

Sheilley Family

Beth, Carter and David Moore

Baez Family with Santa

Vanguard Student Volunteers: Alexandra Urzua-Geraud, Anija Lewis, Parth Patel, Trinity Turrentine, Amayah Ramirez, Ahimsan Sivasekaran, Kushand Kavi Miryal

Ann Vandenburgh and Shirley Ausley

Vanguard Key Club Volunteers: Patrick Laciuga, Thomas Borowski, Shane McCord, Aidan Kerns, Horacio Vega

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | JAN 2022 |

53

EVENTS

society

Mainstreet Mural Unveiling STORY AND PHOTOS BY LEIGHTON OKUS

O

n November 18th, Mainstreet Community Bank unveiled two beautiful murals painted by local artist, Mark Hershberger. The murals are placed on either side of the entry to the historic Studebaker building and depict street scenes from downtown Magnolia Ave in the late 1920’s. The best part about the evening, for me, was sharing stories with generations of Ocalans as we regaled our memories, history and meaning of the downtown adventures the murals evoked. These hidden gems are certainly worth a visit! While you’re at it, pop in to see the amazing renovations at the bank- their incredible team will certainly not let you leave without a smile and a freshly-baked cookie!

Xander R. Tank, Janie Tank, Brandon Tank, and Connie Combs

Skip and Felecia Judge, Jen Yancey and Tom Ingram Laurie Zink, Angie Clifton, Artist Mark Hershberger and Carlynne Hershberger

Gordon and Elizabeth Fairbanks, Caycee Davis, and Kyle Fairbanks

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| JAN 2022 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

Mainstreet Team: Susan Prendergast, Kim Miles, Janie Tank, Angie Clifton, Tom Ingram, Felecia Judge, and Joe Toscano

EVENTS

society

James Moore Celebrates Ocala with a Bang PHOTOS BY CHRISTEN BROWN

S

ince welcoming downtown Ocala tax firm Canopy 360 into its ranks, James Moore and Company has fully embraced the lively culture within the community. This was evident at the spectacular ribbon-cutting celebration they hosted for their team, clients and local business partners.

The Ocala Metro Chamber of Commerce welcomed James Moore to Ocala by presenting the ceremony to kick off their celebration. Local band Left on Broadway set the atmosphere for the night with upbeat tunes. Talented abstract artist Aaron Thomas created a work of art inspired by the company’s mission. The popular pop-up bar Marion Bar & Bubbles, which has become a staple in the community, curated beautiful cocktails.

So what’s the fuss all about? Well, Ocala is now James Moore’s fifth location in Florida! Since establishing itself as a Gainesville firm in 1964, the firm has opened locations in DeLand, Daytona Beach and Tallahassee. Now at nearly 300 employees, James Moore has been named one of the Top 100 Fastest Growing Firms

by Accounting Today (which has also named them a Best Accounting Firm to Work For 11 straight years). It has also been recognized by Forbes Magazine as one of the Top Recommended Tax & Accounting Firms.

James Moore may be a new business on the block, but their team is already deeply rooted in Ocala’s community and ready to share their incredible variety of services, resources and expertise with other growing businesses.

Suzanne Forbes and Russell Lindsay cut the ribbon

Jeremy Wright, John VanDuzer, Mike Sibley and Suzanne Forbes

Jeremy Wright

Lisa Flory Griffin and Megan Griffin

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| JAN 2022 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

Alina Muehlbauer and Erin Dulette

Aaron Thomas

Suzanne Forbes and Julie Knisele

wants YOU! No experience required — we train!

A job with purpose and these benefits:

Best Benefits Around!

• Package worth an extra 25% of your wages • Nurses and CNAs earn up to 25% in shift differentials • Full coverage at no cost (+ vision & dental) • Long- and short-term disability coverage • Eight paid holidays • Up to 21 days paid vacation days your 1st year • Plus sign-on bonuses up to $2,500

What are you waiting for?

Apply online at: www.hospiceofmarion.com/careers

Join our Hospice family.

3231 SW 34th Avenue • Ocala, FL 34474 (352) 873-7400

EVENTS

society

IHMC Sculpture Unveiling STORY AND PHOTOS BY LEIGHTON OKUS

O

cala Electric Utility and IHMC have collaborated to produce a one-of-a-kind, kinetic, STEAM public art piece, focusing on how art can reflect advances in energy and technology. Local artist, Mark Hershberger, creatively incorporated found and recycled materials in this innovative new work. As a little blessing in disguise, the sculpture was unveiled before it’s completion — meaning, the community gets to be a part of the process! Make sure to follow IHMC on social media for opportunities to visit Mark while he completes this masterpiece!

Artist Mark Hershberger with "MENTOR," the new sculpture

The ribbon cutting

Jaye Baillie, George Carrasco and Melissa Townsend

Jennifer Trieber from Rep Stan McClain's Office, Haylee Austin and Miles Marwick from Rep Joe Harding's Office, and Ryan Thomas from Rep. McClain's Office

Olivia Joy and Jeff David

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Leslie Hammond and Trish Kilgore

Lisa Ely and Tito Comas

Angie Clifton and Kristen Dreyer

rs a e Y 0 4 g n i t ra b e l e o i n t a C c u d E n i e c n e l el c x E f o

YEARS

1982-2022

EVENTS

society

HOPS – In With The New While Keeping The Old 2022 Full Historic Steam Ahead

H

OPS celebrated its year ending of 2021 while meeting at a special gathering hosted by past president Pamela Stafford and her husband Frank at their beautiful home. Not only did the members enjoy wonderful food, desserts and camaraderie, they were amazed by awesome historic memorabilia in designated rooms. Brian Stoothoff, outgoing president and HOPS’ great historian, was presented with a beautiful plaque by incoming president Dr. Lela Kerley.

Other incoming officers for 2022 with Stoothoff include vice president Rhoda Walkup, secretary Rick Perry and treasurer Dennis Phillips.

Pamela Stafford, Andrew Grunther, Holly Yokum, Trish Kilgore, Leslie McCullough, Dr. Lela Kerley, Brian Stoothoff, Penny Miller and Rick Perry

HOPS will soon be announcing its 2022 events and more information on the David Cook’s second book for sale.

For more information or to become a member or donor, please follow HOPS on Facebook or at the web site historicocala.org, or phone 352-351-1861. HOPS is located at 712 SE Fort King Street, Ocala, Fl. 34471.

HOPS’ mission is to discover, conserve, preserve and memorialize the history of Ocala and Marion County.

Rhoda Walkups precious and beautiful daughters

Holly Yokum, Trish Kilgore, Pamela Stafford

Frank Stafford

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| JAN 2022 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

Michael and Andrew Grunther

Brian Stoothoff , Andrew Grunther, Leslie McCullough, Pamela Stafford

EVENTS

society

A Magical Night for Veterans Helping Veterans

BY BRAD ROGERS

T

he 7th Annual Magical Night benefiting the Marion County Veterans Helping Veterans was held Saturday, Dec. 3, at the Ocala Hilton. The event, founded and organized by Jinky Diaz, is an annual fund-raiser for the local Veterans Helping Veterans, the largest social service agency serving veterans in North Central Florida.

The event was a formal dinner attended by more than 200 supporters, mostly veterans but local eleted officials and community supporters as well. Diaz and her children – Jinjin, Cole and Cheyenne – organize the event each year as a way, in Diaz’s words, to honor and support our veterans and active-duty personnel and raise badly needed funds for Veterans Helping Veterans.

“Growing up, my grandma always told me stories about World War II, about how my grandpa fought along with the American soldiers,” she said. “She said never to forget why I am here today. So, the Magical Event is my way of giving back.”

A number of awards were presented during the three-hour event.

Bob Levenson, a Marine Corps veteran, and wife, Grace Dunlevy, were honored for their staunch and ongoing support of Vets helping Vets. The couple was awarded a beautiful encased USMC sword in appreciation for their contributions.

Former Ocala city councilman Brent Malever is a veteran and has been an ardent friend and supporter of the organization and received a plaque of recognition.

Veterans Helping Veterans provides one-stop assistance to veterans in need of help. The agency, headed by Director Hank Whittier, provides free assistance and guidance to veterans of all ages for everything from housing to transportation to counseling so veterans can remain financially independent and healthy.

Veterans Helping Veterans is located at 2730 East Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala, near the Veterans Memorial Park. They can be reached at 352/433-2320.

Former city councilman Brent Malever, left, was honored at the Dec. 3 Magical Night benefitting Veterans Helping Veterans for his ongoing support of veterans programs in Ocala. Shown with Malever are event organizer Jinky Diaz and Veterans Helping Veterans Director Hank Whittier.

Veterans Helping Veterans Director Hank Whitier, left, and Magical Night organizer Jinky Diaz, right, share a laugh with state Rep. Stan McClain, R-Ocala, at the Magical Night event benefitting Whittier’s organization.

The annual Magical Night that help Veterans Helping Veterans is organized and presented by Jinky Diaz, left, and her family. Shown with Jinky are her daughter Cheyenne,second from left, her mother, Nette and her son, Cole. The Magical Night helps Veterans Helping Veterans provide an array of services to area veterans.

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | JAN 2022 |

61

PLAY

anthology — poetry in motion

Open Up

BY JERRY GLASSMAN

Open up; go inside There is no reason to hide.

There is no reason to stay outside.

Take a look within and you will begin to win!

It’s all in there Just go and find it It’s called “I AM” It’s fun to know yourself!

Good Luck!

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| JAN 2022 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

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Decorating Contest Winners HOPS Annual

Congratulations to all of the 2021 winners of the holiday decorating contest!

You can see these beautiful decorations for yourself:

Best of Tour: 519 SE Sanchez Avenue;

Holiday Porch: 1st Place, 727 SE 3 Street; 2nd Place, 720 SE 4 Street;

Holiday Door: 1st Place, 1126 SE 5 Street; 2nd Place, 1348 SE 5 Street; 3rd Place, 508 SE 8 Street.

Honorable Mentions: 324 SE Alvarez Avenue and 708 SE 3 Street.

Photos courtesy of H.O.P.S.

Thank you to Leslie McCullough and Andrew Grunther, board members and to all of our volunteer judges

Holiday House: 1st place, 1009 SE 3 Street; 2nd Place, 1138 SE 5 Street; 3rd Place, 926 SE Fort King Street.

3rd Place, 322 SE Wenona Avenue.

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OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | JAN 2022 |

65

ELITE EQUESTRIAN

®

Celebrating The Equestrian Lifestyle

We are America’s Favorite Equestrian Lifestyle Magazine, Published Since 2008.

ELITE

EQUESTRIAN

®

Celebrating The Equestrian Lifestyle

CURO- Diagnostics “Revealing the Unseen”

NIC ROLDAN Peek Inside His Life SPRING Fashion

AIKEN, SC Highlight

Volume 21 Issue 2 Complimentary

TRAILER SAVING A TREASURE Maintenance Persano Breed www.EliteEquestrianMagazine.com

is not a gentle hobby, Ridingto bea horse picked up and laid down like a game of solitaire.

I t is a grand passion.

-Ralph Waldo Emerson

ELITE EQUESTRIAN Magazine RANKED 7TH WORLD WIDE Equine Magazines to watch -according to Feedspot Blog

www.EliteEquestrianMagazine.com To request on-line subscriptions and for media kit inquiries, email info@eliteequestrian.us

equine

Gracious Living in the Horse Capital of the World®

Everything Equine p68

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | JAN 2022 |

67

EQUINE

everything equine

Let me tell you about me!

BY LOUISA BARTON

A

s I was thinking about my story for this month, I realized that other than equine related events and stories, Ocala Magazine readers may not know a lot about the individual who writes the ‘Everything Equine’ section each month, so before 2022 begins, I would like to introduce myself.

I was born in England in a small village, called Meriden, which actually marks the dead centre of England, in a house named Walsh Hall on Walsh Lane (you can google that one). My family sold it to Jeff Lynne, lead singer of a band called ELO. Years later, Jeff sold it to Robin Campbell, a musician for the band UB40. I was on a pony at Walsh Hall before I could walk and ended up living in Stratford-Upon-Avon, home to the famous bard, William Shakespeare.

I had my own pony from a very young age and my mum and dad followed me on many a fox hunt. From seven years of age, my mum always made sure that I had a tiny flask of brandy in my inner jacket pocket (maybe shocking to some), so I would not freeze to death out on the hunt in the frigid winter months in England. Being a lifelong ani-

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| JAN 2022 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

Photos courtesy of Louisa Barton

At age 18, I moved to the USA, rode my first gaited horse, bought my first Western saddle and fell in love with riding the Greenway trails in Ocala and on the beaches of Saint Augustine. mal lover, I never wanted to hunt to actually catch a fox or even hear about the demise of one cute cuddly and quick-witted little animal. There were many of them prowling the English countryside. My love of fox hunting originated from the thrill of running full pelt aboard my Welsh pony, Sultan, across usually closed-off lands. The excitement of Sultan going over or through anything that got in front of him, in order to catch the much larger horses in front, was enough for me.

Through ponds and ditches, down the side of roads, over hedges and across farms, speed was the name of the game, as my parents followed in the Land Rover. Mum and dad would stop and watch with amusement as the very merry huntsmen in their pink jackets were usually ‘outfoxed’, but they all ended up back at the local pub for more merriment.

I got into the jumper world and graduated from ponies to horses and later on did some low-level eventing. I loved the cross-country jumping part of the ‘triathlon’ of horse competitions and the opportunity to go full pelt over jumps across fields was always on my agenda.

In addition, some very close family had stables in New Market and trained racehorses on the Heath there and so our family was no stranger to horse racing either. If I had been small enough as an adult, I would probably have become a jockey, as my need for speed and adventure coupled with my love for all horses, made me an ideal candidate.

At age 18, I moved to the USA, rode my first gaited horse, bought my first Western

saddle and fell in love with riding the Greenway trails in Ocala and on the beaches of Saint Augustine. My children have grown up around horses and have all ridden horses at some point. My second oldest daughter has competed on ponies and horses and all three have a lifelong love of anything four-legged!

In 2013, I started my own radio show on a smaller station here in Ocala, all about, you will never guess…horses! It was successful and continued to grow to a bigger station, 97.3 the Sky and also on Audacy.com worldwide and on social media outlets. I wanted to keep it simple, about all breeds and all disciplines and called it ‘The Horse Talk Show’.

I hope you will listen sometime either on the radio or on a podcast. In 2016, I was hired by the Ocala Metro Chamber and Economic Partnership to run their Equine Initiative program. I have really enjoyed growing the equine knowledge of our Chamber partners and with a national sponsor as gracious and supportive as Pyranha, Inc., we have been provided the opportunity to grow it even more. Although Pyranha is a national company, its roots are here in our community and has been a huge part of making this successful. I so appreciate the equine industry and all the claims to fame we have in this community with the best of the best in equestrians and equines! With over 60 breeds calling Ocala home and the economic impact of a nearly $3 billion industry, I know I found the place in which I belong! What we have here in the Ocala area is priceless. The Horse

Talk Show is now also on the television on all Smart Tv networks on Equus Television.

Last year, just at the right time, I was able to hire a new and wonderful friend to become our show director, Gigi Rosado. Rosado has taken us to the next level. In my spare time, I still love to ride horses on the trails and beaches, and I am also a farm realtor for Showcase Properties of Central Florida, because I love finding the right farm for people who want to also live the dream, in the Horse Capital.

When I was younger, if there was a time that I felt ousted by my brother or my sister, my mum had a favourite expression. She would say, “well dear, you had the horses!” I wasn’t quite sure what she meant then, but now I do appreciate that it is not an inexpensive hobby or habit! However, I will say it is worth every penny, whether spent on riding lessons or horse ownership. Having the horses led me here to Ocala, to more horses, more friends and a lifestyle I would not exchange for anything and I hope this helps you, as readers, to understand my true appreciation of horses and the industry. We are truly blessed to be here in the Horse Capital of the World.

Louisa Barton is the Equine Initiative Director at the Ocala Metro Chamber and Economic Partnership, Showcase Properties of Central Florida Farm Realtor and host of the Horse Talk Show on the Sky 97.3, Audacy.com and Equus Television

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | JAN 2022 |

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A Strange and Picturesque Country : Etchings by Earl H. Reed on display at the Appleton Museum of Art December 10, 2021 - July 31, 2022 Charity: Project Period of Ocala p74 | Health Journal p76 | State of the City p78 State of the County p80 | Kiwanis Korner p82 | Rotary Circle p84 | OM Marketplace p86 | Looking Back p88

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | JAN 2022 |

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charity

Back Row: Holland Ausley, Patrick Laciuga, Christina Light Bottom Row: Sofia Ahumada, Reagan Reese

Project Period Ocala Vanguard students work to alleviate “period poverty” and the stigma of feminine hygiene ›› BY CARLTON REESE

W

alking to class, she could hear the snickers and laughter behind her – a pair of boys apparently amused by something the girl was not cognizant. Noticing the situation, a friend approached to discreetly tell her the boys were laughing at her.

A stain had developed on her pants, the

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| JAN 2022 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

result of her monthly period and she had not realized the blot was there for all to see. Her friend loaned her a sweater to tie around her waist in order to hide what nature had beset on her that morning.

Elsewhere, another girl has her period but is unable to afford the necessary hygiene products. As result, she decides against going

to school altogether, instead opting to stay home and avoid whatever embarrassment would await her.

Such embarrassment, especially in the halls of a high school where teen cruelty knows no bounds and mature reactions in such a situation are still years from development, are commonplace and the cause of

over $3,000

worth of feminine products that it takes to places such as Project Hope and Interfaith. unnecessary emotional distress. At Vanguard High School, a group of students are working to minimize the stigma felt by girls over periods and create a world where those boys would react in a more sympathetic manner as opposed to at one’s expense.

They call it “Project Period Ocala” and through social media campaigns are helping to bring awareness to the stigma that goes along with one of nature’s biological functions. Along the way Project Period Ocala is also collecting feminine hygiene products to donate to local charities that can distribute them to needy women.

“Our main goal is to de-stigmatize the idea of periods,” said Sofia Ahumada, a VHS senior who helped found Project Period along with classmates Christina Light, Patrick Laciuga, Reagan Reese and Holland Ausley. “We have a lot of boys in our graduating class and we noticed a lot of them are uncomfortable with the idea of a period. We made our social media page as a way to spread awareness and de-stigmatize the whole idea, to emphasize that it’s not something that should be embarrassing and that it’s natural for everyone. I think it’s helped a lot, at least in our community.”

Project Period Ocala grew out of a former organization at Vanguard called Hygiene Helpers, which geared its efforts to general hygiene products such as shampoo, deodorant and feminine products. Project Period Ocala has taken the Hygiene Helpers

Each year in the United States, people spend

$2 billion

on menstrual upward of products. In their lifetime, the average menstruating person uses almost 17,000 tampons or pads.

concept and focused mainly on the feminine hygiene aspect.

In addition to providing awareness and education, Project Period Ocala also dedicates itself to making sure that women have access to feminine products such as tampons and pads. So far, Project Period Ocala has collected and donated over $3,000 worth of feminine products that it takes to places such as Project Hope and Interfaith.

“It’s a problem in today’s society,” Ahumada said. “Some people aren’t able to purchase feminine products because it is too expensive and it’s just not readily available in places like homeless shelters. We wanted to focus on those places.”

On Project Period Ocala’s Instagram page (@projectperiodocala), one can read experiences of young girls dealing with the stigma that comes with feminine hygiene episodes. The site is also a good place for

“It’s a problem in today’s society.

Some people aren’t able to purchase feminine products because it is too expensive and it’s just not readily available in places like homeless shelters.”

Source: Healthline.com

So far, Project Period Ocala has collected and donated

those who want to help with the problem of “period poverty” by donating relevant products to the organization. Those who wish to donate supplies can drop them off at Vanguard High School in care of Project Period Ocala at room I-203.

Project Period Ocala is a shining example of young people in the community going beyond mere statements of support for a cause but actually working to make a difference in the lives of people. Realizing the need for feminine products to reach those who cannot afford them, these kids are taking action and providing a service. In addition, they are bringing to light the stigma that many girls face when it is a problem that should never come to fruition. The goal is for those smirks to turn into sympathy, and hopefully the maturity of these kids will spread throughout those halls and eliminate that cruel stigma.

Find Project Period Ocala on Instagram: @projectperiodocala

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | JAN 2022 |

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health journal

Reclaim Your Health

BY FAMILY FEATURES

C

holesterol - a waxy substance created by the liver or consumed from meat, poultry and dairy products - isn’t inherently “bad” for you. In fact, your body needs it to build cells and make vitamins and other hormones. However, too much “bad” LDL cholesterol, or not enough “good” HDL cholesterol, can pose problems.

High cholesterol is one of the major controllable risk factors for heart disease and stroke. Because it typically has no symptoms, you may not know you have high cholesterol until it’s already causing problems.

Knowing key health numbers like your blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol, and working closely with your doctor to manage them, are keys to preventing heart disease and stroke.

Those who have already experienced a heart attack or stroke or have family history of cardiovascular disease, chronic inflammatory disease or kidney disease may need to have their cholesterol and other risk factors checked more often and may need medication to manage their conditions to prevent another event. According to the American Heart Association, as many as 1 in 4 survivors will have another heart attack or stroke.

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| JAN 2022 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

Along with taking your medication as prescribed, some lifestyle habits can help manage your risk and help you live a longer, healthier life like watching what you eat, getting more exercise and managing stress.

MAKE HEALTHY MENU CHOICES A healthy eating plan is a well-rounded diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables (at least 4-5 servings each day). In fact, researchers at the University of Columbia found each daily serving of fruits or vegetables was associated with a 4% lower risk of coronary heart disease and a 5% lower risk of stroke.

Other smart choices for your menu include nuts and seeds, whole grains, lean proteins and fish. Limit sweets, sugar-sweetened beverages, saturated fat, trans fat, sodium and fatty or processed meats.

GET MOVING You likely know exercise is good for you, but an Oxford University study revealed simply swapping 30 minutes of sitting with low-intensity physical activity can reduce your risk of death by 17%. Mortality aside, in its Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, the U.S. Department of Health and Human

Services noted physical activity offers numerous benefits to improve health, including a lower risk of diseases, stronger bones and muscles, improved mental health and cognitive function and lower risk of depression.

The greatest impacts come from getting the recommended amount of activity: at least 150 minutes of moderate activity, 75 minutes of vigorous activity or a combination of those activities per week. Be sure to discuss with your doctor which activities may be best for you.

If you’re having trouble getting motivated, small steps like walking your dog can lead to big changes over time. A scientific statement from the American Heart Association on pets and heart-health showed dog parents are more likely to reach their fitness goals than those without canine companions.

REDUCE STRESS Constant or chronic stress can have real consequences on both emotional and physical health. In fact, research shows chronic stressors like long work hours, financial stress and work-life conflict may be as risky for health as secondhand smoke, according to a report by the Behavior Science and Policy Association.

Aside from the direct toll on your body - including elevated risk for heart disease and stroke from high blood pressure, depression or anxiety - stress can lead to unhealthy habits like overeating, physical inactivity and smoking.

Exercise is an effective way to keep your body healthy and release stress. You might also consider incorporating meditation and mindfulness practices into your day to allow yourself a few minutes to distance yourself from daily stress.

Research compiled by the American Heart Association suggests meditation can reduce blood pressure, improve sleep, support the immune system and increase your ability to process information.

Another powerful tool to fight depression, anxiety and poor sleep, according to researchers at the University of California-San Diego, is practicing gratitude or thankfulness. Start by simply writing down three things you’re grateful for each day.

Learn more about managing your cholesterol and habits to protect your heart health at heart.org/cholesterol.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images Source: American Heart Association

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state of the city

A Fresh Year Full of New Beginnings

BY ASHLEY DOBBS

I

t’s hard to believe that the calendar has turned over to January and a new year has begun. A new year comes with new beginnings and it’s always exciting to see what is on the horizon for the City of Ocala.

With the onset of the new year, we are happy to welcome new and returning faces to our Ocala City Council. After a long election season that wrapped up in November 2021, the newly sworn in elected officials begin their leadership journey in the new year. City staff looks forward to working with our new councilmembers, Barry Mansfield, District 1, Kristen Dreyer, District 4, and James Hilty, District 5, along with re-elected Mayor Kent Guinn, re-elected Jay Musleh, District 3, and currently seated Ire Bethea, District 2 councilmembers.

Councilmembers play an important role within our City government, helping shape growth, identifying priority projects, and facilitating community awareness. Few have left a lasting impression the way that former City Council member Mary Sue Rich did during her time on council. One of the City’s highest profile projects, The Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place, broke ground in early 2021 and is slated for completion in the fall.

This two-story building will serve as an anchor in the western part of Ocala, providing recreational space, banquet halls, a library and more.

New projects taking shape throughout this year include public art installations , new dining options, and capital improvement projects that will enhance our city parks.

After a series of community engagement meetings in the Fall of 2021, the start of a new art mural will begin in early January. Relying on input from citizens, the artist found inspiration from social, economic, and political issues that are prevalent in our world. The mural will be located on the E.D. Croskey Recreation Center and will capture the significance and beauty of community.

From recreation centers to green spaces, parks are an important part of what help center a community. This year, two parks will see upgrades in the form of public restroom facilities. Both the Tuscawilla Art Park and

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| JAN 2022 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

E.D. Croskey Mural – Please note: This is an artist rendering and images may differ upon completion

Mary Sue Rich Community Center – Photo by R.L. Burns Inc.

Ocala City Council

the Ocala Skate Park will receive new facilities, providing an added benefit to both incredibly popular parks. These new additions will expand upon the growth that our parks are seeing year over year.

Located in the heart of downtown and next to the historic Union Station, a new restaurant will soon be coming on board.

The city approved a five-year lease agreement for the new restaurant, called Depot on Magnolia, which will occupy the former location of Dee Dee’s Diner. We are excited for this new dinning opportunity that will part of the North Magnolia area and will serve residents and visitors alike Stay tuned

for grand opening announcements.

We have many things to look forward to in 2022. Over the next 365 days, as these new projects come online and are incorporated into the City of Ocala, we will gather momentum and feel the energy associated with new beginnings. These additions and improvements are chosen and implemented with citizens in mind, and we will continue to look for opportunities to enhance the lives of our residents.

From all of us at the City of Ocala, we wish all a happy and prosperous new year!

Ashley Dobbs is the Marketing and Communications Manager for the City Of Ocala.

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state of the county

Marion County Residents Learn How Local Government Operates Through Citizens Academy

BY MARK ANDERSON

E

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| JAN 2022 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

Assessment (municipal service taxing unit), 911 Management, or Facilities Management do on an average day.

Reactions to the Citizen Academy have been very positive since its inception more than 10 years ago, with many saying the academy helped them find a new appreciation for the effort that goes into many of the county services they use every day.

“Citizens Academy gives Marion County residents a behind-the-scenes look into how our great county operates,” said Marion County Administrator Mounir Bouyounes.

“Our employees work hard to provide services throughout all corners of Marion County, and I think citizens who participate in this program leave with increased knowledge about their local government.”

For those wanting to learn more about how their local government operates, the Citizens Academy is the place to be.

Mark Anderson is a public relations specialist for the Marion County Government.

Citizens Academy is free to Marion County residents 18 and older.

Beginning March 12, the program runs every Thursday from 8 a.m. to noon until the graduation ceremony in early June.

Anyone interested in attending must complete a registration form and commit to attending nine out of 11 sessions to be eligible for graduation.

And sign up early — spots are limited and tend to fill up quickly! To learn more about the program or to sign up, please visit MarionCountyFL.org/ CitizensAcademy.

Photos courtesy of Marion County

ver wonder what happens to your trash after dropping it off at a local transfer station or pondered how new roads are planned and built throughout the county? You’re not alone.

Taking place over the span of three months, the Marion County Citizens Academy teaches Marion County residents how their local government operates and what it prioritizes — helping to answer many of those questions you might have asked yourself when using a county service.

With presentations and tours from 25 county departments and offices, academy attendees can learn all about various aspects of the county government — from parks and recreation facilities and the public library system to utilities and animal services. The academy is a chance for residents to learn more about the hard work and dedication that goes into keeping Florida’s fifth-largest county running smoothly.

Academy attendees receive hands-on experiences from multiple departments and offices within Marion County government.

Participants also have the opportunity to meet employees and elected officials and ask questions face to face.

For Marion County, the academy is invaluable for highlighting the work governmental employees do on a daily basis.

The academy is a means to show citizens how their tax dollars are put to work to help improve the lives of residents and visitors in Marion County. While public-facing departments such as Parks & Recreation or the Ocala/Marion County Visitors and Convention Bureau may be familiar in the eyes of citizens, people may not know exactly what other departments such as MSTU/

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Kiwanis

Korner

Serving the Children of Marion County

K

iwanis of Ocala ended the year of 2021 with several great Guest Speakers.

A special honoring of Doug Oswald, Mayor of Ocala in 1976, for his 98th birthday.

Since his birthday, Doug has sadly passed on.

He is and will be missed greatly. Doug was a major and driving force of the Appleton Museum, former president of the Marion County Chamber of Commerce and former president of Kiwanis of Ocala, among many other areas of which he served his community. He served the USA in the military in Europe during WW2 and was the oldest (living) UF football player to date. He was truly a legend not only for our county, but our country.

Nick Navetta, past president, introduced the guest speaker, Cheryl Canzanella, a financial advisor and brokerage manager, from Mass Mutual. She spoke on the epidemic of opioids, it’s evolution and burden it places upon not only the person that is addicted, but the harm, hurt and hardship it places upon many families. Cheryl lost her husband to the opioid addiction not long ago and is a national speaker on all aspects of it.

Other guest speakers were introduced

by Paul Stentiford, Wes Wheeler, Beverly Angelotti, and NC Sizemore. They were Jim Hilty, former and newly re-elected Ocala City Councilman, Barry Mansfield, newly elected Ocala City Councilman, Shane Fitch, sales director at Enco Systems, Inc. and radio personality/star at Q92.9, 101.9, & 93.3, and Paul Bloom, Marion County Sheriff ’s Office.

Kiwanis members, Jim Phillips and Kevin Lopez proudly represented the club in support of the children of Marion County at the recent Brick City Carnival. Hundreds of children were in attendance at the event.

Cheryl Canzanella

Paul Stentiford

Doug Oswald

Wes Wheeler

Barry Mansfield

Nick Navetta

Paul Bloom

Shane Fitch

Jim Hilty

Kevin Lopez and Jim Phillips

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Kiwanis International is a global community of clubs, members, and partners, dedicated to improving the lives of children one community at a time. Today, with more than 550,000 members in 80 Countries, Kiwanis empowers members to pursue creative ways to serve the needs of our children, such as fighting hunger, improving literacy and being a mentor. Kiwanis Clubs host over 150,000 service projects per year.

www.facebook.com/KiwanisClubOfOcala

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Rotary

Circle

3rd Annual Marion Rotary Duck Derby HOSTED BY ALL ROTARY CLUBS OF MARION COUNTY

Saturday, February 12th 2022 at Tuscawilla Park Following the Cattle Drive & Cowboy Roundup through Downtown Ocala

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ducks race to win on Tuscawilla Pond!

Discov Cente Tuscaw Par

Adopt a duck: $5 for one duck $25 for Quack Pack (six ducks) $100 for a Flock (25 ducks)

DRAKE—$5,000

You will be recognized as an Elite Duck Sponsor at the event with your logo prom displayed on all marketing materials, T-shirts, event banners as well as MarionDuckDe which will include a link to your company’s website. Your company name and logo will CASH PRIZES for adopting thedisplayed winningon duck: all “You Got Ducked” yard signs.

1ST Place $2,000 • 2nd Place $1,000 • 3rd Place $500

DUCKLING—$1,500

Sponsorships available: Drake $2,500 • Duckling $1,500 • You Quacker $1,000 will be recognized as a Duckling Sponsor at the event and listed on all marketing m Paddler $500 • Good Egg $250 event banners as well as MarionDuckDerby.com which will include a link T-shirts, company’s website. You will also have the ability to put marketing literature at the Proceeds benefit table the day of the event.

DISCOVERY CENTER and other local Rotary Club Projects

QUACKER—$1,000 You will be recognized as a Quacker Duck Sponsor at the event and listed on T-sh For more information visit MarionDuckDerby.org sponsor board, adoption papers, and social media.

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| JAN 2022 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

PADDLER—$500

Logo displayed on social media and adoption papers. Name recognized on sponsor boar

HOPS Set amid the ambience of the city’s oldest historic district and through the generosity of the homeowners, H.O.P.S. is pleased to showcase some of Ocala’s distinctive architecture, history, and culture. Since 1992, these home tours have provided a rare opportunity for guests to go inside some of our community’s most beautiful private residences.

2022 Historic Ocala Preservation Society Board Members

HOPS wishes you and your families a Happy and Prosperous New Year!

Dr. Lela Kerley — President Rhoda Walkup — Vice-President Rick Perry — Secretary Dennis Phillips — Treasuer Brian Stoothoff — Past President, 2021 Pamela Stafford Linda Anker Daniel Banks Giorgio Berry Bryan Caracciolo Robin Fannon Sean Gallaway Leon Geller Andrew Grunther Stephanie Howard R.J. Jenkins Lela Kerley Trish Kilgore Sarah Kirk Caryl Lucas Leslie McCullough Penny Miller Suzanne Thomas Diana Williams Link Wilson Holly Yocum

712 S.E. Fort King St. Ocala, FL 34471 | (352) 351-1861 | www.HistoricOcala.org Follow us on Facebook

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looking back

Ocala Primary School 1965

Ocala Primary School 1910

School Board today

A simple building with a momentous past

BY CARLTON REESE WITH THE HISTORIC OCALA PRESERVATION SOCIETY

A

t first glance, the Marion County School Board administration building might not appear to have much of a story to tell. A fairly nondescript two-story building located downtown and with no architectural features to dazzle the historic sensibilities, the structure serves an important purpose today quite different from its origins.

Located at 513 SE 3rd St., the building is home to Marion County School Board meetings as well as offices for some of the school system administration. It all seems rather pedestrian, but its purpose today is quite profound.

Before there was ever a structure there, a baseball field stood on this piece of land. In 1907, this would begin to change as $7,000 was allocated by the government to build a school there; and the project would be completed in 1908. The result was a two-story brick Vernacular-style building with Utilitarian architectural features that would become the Ocala Primary School with an enrollment of 175 students.

Adorned with high ceilings and sunlit rooms, the school also housed four large study halls, a cloak room and an entrance hall. Its utility was undeniable as even into the 1960s, enrollment at the school had reached 300.

Multiple generations of Ocalans, many still residing here, would attend the school and still hold fond memories of the

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old building. Diane Koontz attended first through sixth grades there and would later teach fourth grade in 1961 when it was called Central Elementary School.

“I remember one day I was teaching and about a million birds flew in through the window and dropped all their berries,” Koontz remembers. “There was also a student, Eric Lewis, whose dog would follow him to school almost every day and would come up the fire escape and just stay there.

He didn’t bother anyone and we just let him stay there. Today, everybody’d be scared to death and would never let a dog there.”

In the early days, students were allowed to leave campus for lunch then return for classes. Koontz has fond memories of her second grade teacher, Ms. Humphries, who would award students with a dime to go by the nearby White Store to purchase a goody. “She would let us walk over there with that dime, and I would always get a banana popsicle.”

By 1966, with the construction of other schools, the building was converted into offices for the School Board with the main alterations including the covering of the huge windows on the exterior, the same windows those birds would fly in and out.

Today, there are still many citizens of Ocala who remember walking the halls of this building as a school, and recent pro-

posals to have the building razed have been quite disconcerting. The memories and the history that are housed in this modest structure are invaluable and part of the cherished local history that is to be preserved by all reasonable measures.

In September, the School Board approved planning a new $41 million facility on the location of the current building. Some current board members and concerned citizens are hoping the project never gets off the ground in order to preserve this small piece of Ocala history.

The search for a spot to build a 90,000-square-foot facility has been ongoing for years, but it seems constructing on the land around the current building has the most traction.

“It would be sad for me and a lot of us,” Koontz said of the possible razing of the old school building. “I’d like to see them restore it to the way it was. It seems like such a waste – I think the School Board offices should be away from downtown. It’s only going to keep growing, so what are they going to do, eventually tear down the old high school (currently Osceola Middle School)?”

Currently, everything is in the proposal stage, but every day the voices of preservation for this historic place grow louder and louder. Once the building is razed, it will be gone forever and with it yet another symbol of Ocala’s glorious past.

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