Ocala Magazine July 2021 Digital Issue by ocalamag

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

OCALA MAGAZINE

JUL 2021

a : c a c l a e c O gM n i k i B 40 under 40 2021

+Shellfish in the summertime

Considering Ocala?

Tunder Ranch – Incredible, state of the art training and rehabilitation center features cold-water spa, expansive swim circle under roof, 3 barns with 120 stalls, 3/4 +/- mile track, and equipment building. Main residence, pool house, plus 2 managers residences. $4,750,000

Riverside - 67+/- Acre NW training facility with access to the ¾ +/- mile race track (7/8 +/- with chute). Located at Eclipse Training Center. 5 barns, total of 108 stalls, 2 barn apartments, Eurocizer walkers, round pens, 28 lush green paddocks plus a maintenance shop. $2,700,000

La Hacienda Stables- 147+/- acre training center, two residences, main residence is 3 bedrooms/ 2 baths, and the second home is 2/1 with attached 1/1 in-law suite. 4 Barns-all with metal roofs for a total of 54 stalls, covered Euro exerciser, 5/8 +/-mile irrigated track. $2,350,000

Located just minutes to World Equestrian Center - Frontage on Hwy 27 - Great Location! 40+/- acres! Stable, 3 BR, 2 BA home with a lot of potential. 1 BR/ 1 BA Cabana and pool. Zoned A-1. Land use on parcel is (RL and MR) Rural land and Medium Density.

$106,518,125 Sold & Pending for 2021

Pending ITS WEC & H o t e s o l C

1,028 Acres with Granddaddy Oaks and ponds in NW Ocala, Hwy 318 frontage. Suitable for any equestrian discipline and/or cattle. Main Barn with office, break room, half bath, lab, viewing room (4) foaling stalls plus 16 additional stalls. Five additional center aisle barns with a total of 108 stalls. Incredible home sites. $17,000,000

French Country Estate on 1,968+/- private acres with shared ownership of private Lake Ledwith. Custom designed home combines the best of elegance, style, craftsmanship and offers gorgeous, expansive views of the surrounding Granddaddy Live Oaks and grounds. Home offers 7,918+/- SF of living area. $19,900,000

Jacks or Better Farm. Located in NW Ocala with road frontage on desirable Hwy 225A sits this 89+/- acre farm with 6 barns with a total 59 stalls, 25 paddocks, maintenance building, main residence, quadruplex, plus additional guest/managers homes. Property is suitable for multiple equestrian disciplines. $3,950,000

Modern ranch style 3 BR, 2.5 BA home with stunning custom features. Equestrian will enjoy the 12-stall barn with tack room, feed room plus bath. 150’x 250’ riding arena, 5 large paddocks, lush green rolling hills completes this package. $1,847,350

List with us today!

R E A LTO R ®

Considering Ocala? uced Just Red

Golden Ocala – FOR SALE OR LEASE- Presiding over the 15th green sits this 5 BR, 5.5 BA home. 5,912+/- SF of living area with chef ’s kitchen, formal living room, formal dining room, and office. Elegant pool and lanai are is perfect for entertaining. $1,990,000

10+ Acre Gentlemen’s Farm - 2-Story home with wrap around porch. 5-BR/3-BA, great room with wood-burning fireplace. Spacious owner’s suite with custom bath. Lit arena, 4-Stall barn, 4 paddocks and 3- car covered carport. Just minutes to the World Equestrian Center.

S EC & HIT W o t e s o Cl

n! ! Locatio n o i t a c ! Lo Location 10 +/- Acres Equestrian Estate conveniently located between Ocala and The Villages. Center State home features 3 BR/ 2 BA and 2,372 SF of living area. Open floor plan. Screen enclosed pool and lanai. 6-Stall Barn plus arena. Beautiful Oaks and lush green pastures. $599,000

4.52+/-Acres ready for your horses in NW Ocala with lush landscaping and amazing views! 3 BR 2 BA home features spacious living room, dining area with fireplace and chef’s kitchen. Property is just minutes to WEC and HITS showgrounds. Two stall barn, lush green paddocks. $349,000

R E A LTO R ®

hborhood ig e n ly d n Horse frie

Pending

Private hilltop estate in Cedar Creek on 10 +/- Acres. 5 BR, 5BA home with spacious living and family rooms with views of the outdoors. Extra-large Chef’skitchen with center is land plus breakfast nook. Office, bonus room, 4 car garage, plus pool and summer kitchen. $1,297,500

Tranquility, serenity, and extraordinary detail on 5+/- acres gated community, access to the Florida Greenway and Trails for riding, hiking, bikingand strolling for miles. 4 BR, 4.5 BA home. Expansive patio with a pool, waterfall and summer kitchen. $1,398,750

Country Club Of Ocala Views to the 15th hole. Estate sits on 2.26 acres & boasts 7,779+/-SF of living area with 5 BR, 5.2 BA, 3,096 +/-SF guest-pool home, perfect for entertaining. Infinity pool & spa totally private from land viewers. $3,995,000

Bass Country Retreat is an unique private residence overlooking spring fed lake on 123.43 acres of privacy. 2-Story cedar home with large deck overlooks the lake. The property adjoins the Ocala National Forest on three sides. $1,885,000

g buying or n ri e d si n o c e ’r u If yo call today! selling, give us a R E A LTO R ® For these and other properties, visit JoanPletcher.com for information, videos, and more choices. 352.347.1777 | Cell: 352.266.9100 | Cell: 352.804.8989 | joan@joanpletcher.com Due to the privacy and at the discretion of my clients, there are additional training centers, estates, and land available that are not advertised.

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Meet our latest baby fraxel The Clear & Brilliant

CELEBRATING OUR 41ST YEAR!

JULY • 2021 p. 24 — 40 under 40, Woody Oralus Photo by Ralph Demilio

FEATURES 16 24 42 46

Ocala becomes a mountain biking mecca 40 under 40: Ocala’s up-and-comers Howard-Mutarelli wedding OM Pulse

DEPARTMENTS

ON THE COVER: Rider: Alex Sioch Photography by: Ralph Demilio

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

OCALA MAGAZINE

JUL 2021

la: ecca a c O gM

n Biki 40 under 40 2021

+Shellfish in the summertime

| JUL 2021 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

10 12 14

Letter from the Publisher From the Editor’s Desk From the Mayor

49 50 53

EAT It’s summertime, shellfish time Dining Out

55 56 62

PLAY Socially Speaking: Community deeds and golf Anthology: Poetry in motion

65 64

EQUINE Everything Equine: The Bob Baffert controversy

73 74 76 78 80 82 84 88

ETC Charity Spotlight: Shores Assembly of God Health Journal: Identifying sleep apnea State of the City: Code Enforcement State of the County: New archery range Kiwanis Korner Rotary Circle Looking Back: Eighth Street Elementary

Annette Powell, Ocala

The heart. It’s a symbol of caring and strength. It represents compassion and understanding. At UF Health, we put our hearts and expertise into everything we do. From developing new lifesaving procedures to providing routine health services, there is no heart condition too simple or complex for our dedicated doctors and staff. At UF Health, our teams of caring professionals work together to provide personalized treatment plans in one world-class medical center. We care for your heart with all of ours.

Visit Heart.UFHealth.org to watch Annette’s story and sign up for a free Heart Healthy Kit.

26402 H&V_Ocala Mag_Annette_9x10.875.indd 1

4/15/2021 1:40:13 PM

Volume 41, Issue 1

JULY 2021

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 | Editor brad@ocalamagazine.com

ART Jessi Miller | Creative Director jessi@ocalamagazine.com

Carlton Reese | Senior Writer carlton@ocalamagazine.com

CONTRIBUTORS Ashley Dobbs/City of Ocala | Writer Stacie Causey/Marion County | Writer Mayor Kent Guinn | Columnist

PHOTOGRAPHY

Robin Fannon | Food/Lifestyle Editor

Ralph Demilio | Chief Photographer ralph@ocalamagazine.com

Sharon Raye | Copy Editor

OPERATIONS Randy Woodruff, CPA | CFO randy@ocalamagazine.com

SALES

2020 F FIVE INE O R E WINNIDA MAGAZ ARDS FLOR CIATION AW ASSO

Adam Hamersky | Advertising Executive adam@ocalamagazine.com

ADVISORY Linda Marks | Founder & Advisor

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

THE OFFICIAL CITY MAGAZINE OF

TEDxOcala · HITS · Equiventure

OFFICE 743 E. Fort King St., Ocala, FL 34471 MAILING ADDRESS P.O. Box 4649, Ocala, FL 34478 LETTERS TO THE EDITOR by mail or email: editor@ocalamagazine.com SUBSCRIPTION One year - $49, Two years - $95, Single Issue - $5.95. COPYRIGHT ALL contents copyrighted © 2021 by Ocala Magazine Publications. All rights reserved. Reproduction or use of editorial or advertising content in any manner without written permission is strictly prohibited. Horse Capital of the World® is a registered trademark of the Florida Thoroughbred Breeders’ & Owners’ Association.

| JUL 2021 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

BE PREPARED. BE SAFE. Hurricane season is June 1 - November 30 • Make sure all contact information is current on your account. Providing us with an up-to-date phone number will allow you to report your power outage easier and faster.

• If your power is restored while crews are still working in the area, please leave a porch light or externally visible light on so they can see that you have power.

• To view a real-time map of current outages, visit severeweather.ocalafl.org.

• Generators should not be plugged directly into a home’s main electrical system. This could potentially send an electrical charge back to the power grid, which could create an electrocution hazard for utility workers.

• To report a power outage in your area, visit myusage.com, use myusage mobile app or call 352-351-6666. • Please do not report an outage more than once. • For real-time updates and outage information during a storm, please follow Ocala Electric Utility on Facebook.

/OcalaElectricUtility

@OEUinfo

ocalaelectric.org | 352-629-2489

• Generators should be set up outside the home in a well-ventilated area. Individual appliances can be plugged directly into the generator. • Visit severeweather.ocalafl.org to learn more about storm preparation and download your free storm preparation guide.

LETTER

from the publisher

Small charities can do big things WHEN I BOUGHT OCALA MAGAZINE THREE YEARS AGO, one of my main goals was to shine a light on all the charitable organizations that do such great work in this community. Here we have large international charities as well as small ones that have no hand outside the borders of Marion County. It’s these small charities, where local folks with boots on the ground and limited subsidies from large parent organizations, that reflect the charitable spirit as much or more than any other. It’s not just funding or providing assistance to the needy, it’s the direct contact and help to the neighbor across the street that is so welcome, and that’s where this month’s Charity Spotlight falls. All churches have a mission, and that mission most likely involves some charitable endeavors. When we think of these churches, often images of large and wealthy congregations come to mind. At Shores Assembly of God, only 25 members sit in the pews on Sundays, yet the work being done would seem as if it is much larger. Through its mission of day care, child education, adult work training and many other services, Shores Assembly, under the guidance of Pastor John Delcamp, is making a huge difference in the lives of people hailing from one of the most disadvantaged areas of the county. What the church takes in, it gives away. Around 90 percent of congregational tithes and outside donations are dispersed among the needy, with only a paltry amount staying in to cover much-needed overhead costs of the church. Understandably, the percentage could be lower like most other charities, but the mission here harkens to that parable of the widow who, although poor herself, gave her only two coins which she would otherwise have depended on for her livelihood. It’s this kind of charitable spirit that we can all learn from. IN JULY, WE CELEBRATE INDEPENDENCE DAY, and I think it is a good time once again to reflect on the blessings we have living in this country. So many have fought and died to preserve our freedoms and we cannot let many of today’s petty squabbles cause us to lose sight of this. Our freedoms and our prosperity are linked. As such, we should take this month to remember and thank all the men and women who have served this country and keep us all free and safe. Though many try to separate us into groups of choice, we should all take notice of the one thing that unites us – we are citizens and protectors of this great land. When the fireworks blast this month, I will be cheering and praying for a brighter future, one that includes a return to normalcy from this wicked pandemic as well as one that includes prosperity for all. The blessings of freedom should not be mocked, nor should they be deprived of anyone. This Independence Day, I think it is important to remember the final words of our Pledge: “With liberty and justice for all.” ‘Til next month, Kids at Shores Assembly Photo by Ralph Demilio

PHILIP GLASSMAN, PUBLISHER

| JUL 2021 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

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LETTER

from the editor

Keep Marion Beautiful

It is, after all, illegal to litter. 12

| JUL 2021 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

“We’re 146th in size and 48th in the number of new residents,” Sheilley said, according to the Ocala Star-Banner. “That means a lot of communities much larger than us added fewer people. To give you a really shocking number, Miami-Dade metro added only 500 more people than Marion County did last year.” The growth is expected to continue, as more and more companies look to establish distribution operations here. As Sheilley noted, it’s all about location, location, location, and Ocala sits within a day’s drive of 34 million people, halfway between Tampa and Jacksonville, halfway between Miami and Atlanta. But with growth comes problems. And one that is vexing the County Commission – and, hopefully, all who love our community – is a persistent, indeed worsening litter problem. Consider this: In the first four months of 2021, county litter crews, inmates and volunteers picked up 423,000 pounds of trash around Marion County. That’s 211 tons — and it has gotten worse every month this year. County Commissioners Michelle Stone and Kathy Bryant both summed up the situation in one word: disgusting. Exactly.

BY BRAD ROGERS

Commissioners are baffled why littering is such a big problem. And anyone who grew up seeing the Keep America Beautiful TV commercials, featuring a Native American looking at littered roadways with a tear rolling down his cheek, surely feels the same way. Commissioners would love Sheriff Billy Woods and our local police chiefs to start ordering tickets written for littering to stir public awareness. It is, after all, illegal to litter. But that, unfortunately, is not likely going to happen on any scale. First of all, it’s hard to catch litterers. And, besides, the cops already have their hands full fighting bigger crimes. Yet, something needs to happen. A Keep Marion Beautiful campaign is surely in our future, and civic clubs, student organizations and individuals looking for a cause should look into the county’s Adopt-A-Road program, where participants take responsibility for a small stretch of road in their neighborhood and help keep it clear of litter. We are blessed to be one of America’s most beautiful and appealing places to live – and the numbers back it up. But if we continue to throw our trash out our windows, dump discarded tires and furniture in our woods and treat our spectacular landscape like a landfill, it will ultimately cost us. Litter is ugly, and who wants to live in an ugly place? So, Keep Marion Beautiful. It costs nothing, but it could cost all of us a lot if we can’t stop the defacing of our landscape. Because it is disgusting.

Photos by Ralph Demilio

ome pretty impressive growth numbers were revealed at a recent Chamber and Economic Partnership get-together showing Ocala once again is one of the nation’s most popular places to which Americans migrate. Across town, though, the Marion County Commission is not talking about the scores of people who move to our little slice of paradise every week or fretting about whether it can provide the roads and services needed to keep up with being the 10th-fastest growing community in the nation, at least not publicly. No, they are frustrated by a growing litter problem. Sometimes bigger is better. Sometimes it’s not. The growth numbers are head-turning. CEP CEO/President Kevin Sheilley said that, in addition to having a top 10 growth rate, about 150 new residents move to metro Ocala every week. The influx of people helped move metro Ocala up to 146th in size among the 400 largest metro areas in the country. And while metro Ocala is the 146th largest metro area in population, it ranked 48th in the number of new residents added last year.

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MAYOR

from the

Here we grow again! BY MAYOR KENT GUINN

N With exciting things to do downtown, more people want to live there — and the more people who live downtown, the more of a stake people take in the area.

ow that we’ve all caught our breath after having enjoyed the latest round of developments in the downtown area, it’s time to buckle up and get ready for some more. It seems like when it comes to downtown development, we pause every couple of years, then everyone gets back to the drawing board. I’m excited to say that’s where we are again, and a number of projects are coming to life that will continue this fantastic trajectory we’ve been on for many years. The first one worth mentioning is a project care of Angie Lewis and Thad Boyd, who are working with Ken Ausley to build two-story townhomes right across the street from City Hall. In addition, a developer from Tampa is developing three blocks in the downtown area that will include commercial property, some retail, a hotel and quite a bit of residential space. We walked out of a recent meeting and I asked, “What’s our timeline on this?” and he said, “We’re ready now.” Actually, the developer has been working on the project for two years, and it looks like groundbreaking should take place sometime during the first quarter of 2022. Three blocks of development will certainly be a significant contribution to downtown and is all part of the master plan we have been using as our playbook, so to speak. We’re doing a good job of following that playbook and the result is a vibrant downtown that comes to life more and more each year. The Mellow Mushroom is sprouting out of the ground right across from the Marion Theatre, and a new Tex-Mex restaurant is coming soon to the former Bank of America building across the street from Harry’s. These are exciting times as we witness the growth of downtown, but the best part may be the growth in residential units. With exciting things to do downtown, more people want to live there — and the more people who live downtown, the more of a stake people take in the area. As a result, downtown becomes not just a place for shoppers and diners, but a real neighborhood in which people have a vested interest. As the number of downtown residences grow, the quality of life in downtown grows and the two feed off each other, creating a snowball effect that results in the vibrant downtown many of us have dreamed about for decades. We are on the cusp of something unique here, something that all Ocalans can take pride in. After this next round of development, there will be more to follow. We stand on the shoulders of giants who created this vision a long time ago and set the master plan in motion with baby steps that have evolved into great leaps. At one point in the not-too-distant past, downtown Ocala seemed like other downtown areas: mostly abandoned and never a destination point. That has changed, and it’s only going to get better.

Mayor Kent Guinn

| JUL 2021 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

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| JUL 2021 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

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he land once referred to as the “Ditch of Dreams” has at last earned its glory, not as a canal to protect precious cargo from a more arduous journey around the Florida peninsula, but as a mecca for biking enthusiasts who swarm to Central Florida from all parts of the state and even the nation. Ever since Carl Rose ignited Marion County’s horse industry in 1936, Ocala’s reputation has been wedded almost exclusively to the equine industry. But mention Ocala to any rider of the two-wheeled vehicular variety and the sport of mountain biking immediately comes to mind. Thoroughbred racing has Lexington, and then it has Ocala. Mountain biking has Moab, then it has Santos. Seems odd to consider any place in Florida to be a home for “mountain” biking, much less a destination point for enthusiasts. One might initially see as much compatibility with Florida and mountain biking as one would Oklahoma and tiki bars, or Manitoba and surf shops. But make no mistake, the Sunshine State is quickly earning a national reputation in the sport, and Ocala’s Santos Trailhead is the flagship. On any weekend, hordes of cars descend on Santos Trailhead, and the vast majority make trips from all corners of the state, eschewing trails in their own backyards to experience what many biking publications hail as the top mountain biking venue in Florida. C.J. Johnson and his wife Cindy regularly make the two-hour drive from Jacksonville to Santos, and they aren’t alone. “It’s my favorite place to ride,” said C.J., who in his fifties prefers to challenge himself on Santos’ expert “Black Diamond” trails while Cindy sticks to the paved trail. “We started riding a few trails in Orlando and Volusia County, but the first time we came out here it became twice-a-month we’d come here, then every weekend.” Bicycling.com lists Santos among its “Top 6 Secret Mountain Biking Destinations in the U.S.”, while Men’s Journal Magazine

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | JUL 2021 |

names Ocala as among the “Seven Most Epic, Secret Mountain Bike Destinations in the U.S.” For those enamored with rankings, Singletracks.com places Santos as the No.1 trail in Florida and No.3 in the nation. Located on the former Cross Florida Barge Canal land that was converted into the protected Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway, Santos boasts 85 miles of trails that offer daredevil challenges for the fearless experts as well as the cautious newbie enjoying little more than a nature hike on wheels. Trails meander through lush forest greenery and into deep limerock pits, while man-made wooden features in the vaunted Vortex, with its steep drops, tight turns and multiple jumps, give the trails some of the sharpest teeth in the state. “Part of the fun is pushing it to the edge of how fast you can take a corner, how quickly you can go over a rock,” Johnson said. “The nice thing about here is, if you want to go fast you have to peddle. You don’t get the luxury of a downhill ski run like you do in other states – you’ve got to make your own speed here.” Johnson travels up the east coast and even out west for his mountain biking adrenaline fix, but calls Ocala his “go-to” location. “This is one of the few trails in Florida that keeps us in shape to do the other technical trails.” Will Rude, 26, moved to Ocala from Minnesota several years ago and loves having Santos so close. Testimony to the diversity of trails here is Rude’s preference for the technical rides of the expert trail while admitting his favorite is Twister, a medium-level blue trail. “It’s 2 1/2 miles long of flow, and you can pick up some decent speed,” Rude said. “My buddies and I, we used to time each other on the track so there would be some competition. That one, I have ridden a lot – I like the technical stuff, but I like the competition.” For Gregory Steele, the trails are less about speed and daring and more about the nature on display. Steele, 58, came to Santos from Orlando with his Central Care Mission group that regularly visits the park and this excursion gave him a chance to retreat from the bustle of city life and regain a small taste of his youth. “When I grew up, my grandparents lived way out in the country,” Steele said.

| JUL 2021 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

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“It was nice to walk out the door and walk through the woods where there are no cars, just the sound of nature. That’s what I like about this ride, it’s so peaceful, so serene.” Count Steele among those riding the paved trails, something very few mountain bike parks offer right next to the dirt trails,

and yet another draw to Santos. Why drive from Jacksonville, Orlando or even Miami to experience Santos Trailhead? Rob McVeigh, part-owner of Brick City Bicycles in downtown Ocala, thinks he has an answer. “The trails were designed by riders,”

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McVeigh says. “They weren’t just put in or adapted; they were built specifically by riders for riders, so it’s an extremely popular destination. “It’s probably one of the best on the east coast, just for the sheer size of it and the variety of trails. It attracts pretty much any type of rider; plus, we have the paved trails

through everything so non-mountain bikers can enjoy the trails as well.” As part of the cycling retail industry, McVeigh has seen firsthand the cycling boom not just locally, but nationwide. When the pandemic hit in the spring of 2020, unease gripped the cycling retailers as it did the rest of the na-

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | JUL 2021 |

tion when lockdowns became mandatory. Fears turned to windfalls, however, as the pandemic provided a great excuse for people to take up cycling, mountain biking in particular. The month of April 2020 saw a 75 percent surge in U.S. cycle sales that was nearly $1 billion. “As far as our shop, at the beginning of the pandemic for the first several months our business almost doubled – it was insane,” McVeigh said. “It kind of leveled off, but it’s still 25 percent higher than average. “We kind of worried for nothing. Now, we’re hoping that a large percentage of new riders stick with it, get off the couch and start enjoying everything we have here.” The cycling boom has placed a strain on bicycle manufacturers, which initially had difficulty producing enough supply to keep up with the demand. McVeigh notes that his shop “went months without anything coming in” and that almost all shops struggled with inventory. With manufacturers now catching up, the retail shops in town are stocked with the diverse array of bikes necessary to cover all the different ground offered at Santos. In addition to the volume and diversity of trails, Santos offers something else that sets it apart from other parks: maintenance.

| JUL 2021 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

The many miles of trails and wooden features do not maintain their condition without the diligent hands of volunteers who come from the Ocala Mountain Bike Association. OMBA assembles crews on a weekly basis to clear debris, fix man-made features and even inspect for areas where trails may need to be shifted. FROM CANAL-IN-PROGRESS TO BIKING HAVEN It’s the OMBA that was started by local riders such as former clerk of courts David Ellspermann and Todd Frobish, creator of Brick City Bicycles and still part owner, that played a strong hand in turning the Santos area into the premier trailhead in the state. Bike enthusiasts who fancied themselves off-road riders took to the Greenway property due to a lack of trails in the area. That was 1998, but the story goes back long before then. From the onset, the Cross Florida Barge Canal project was synonymous with controversy and division, and over one-fourth of the project was completed, including large excavations south of Ocala in the 1930s. The on-again, off-again project gained traction once again in the 1960s under Presidents Kennedy and Johnson, but opponents led by Gainesville-based environmentalist Mar-

jorie Harris Carr and her organization the Florida Defenders of the Environment, were able to successfully convince President Nixon to kill the project in 1971. With the project officially deauthorized by Congress in 1990, the canal lands were turned over to the state of Florida, which converted them into the Cross Florida Greenway State Recreation and Conservation Area in 1991. In the wake of the project was an opportunity for local off-road bikers, who salivated over the lush landscape and the abandoned excavation projects. “There was a group of us back then that found the Greenway property before it was

ful, s s e c t suc i e d a hat m t s t yclis c f o n visio a t s an ju h t e r s mo a w t I

it was th ek that help nowledge of actu al riders ed shape t renowne h d venue. e trails into such established as the Greenway and we would ride out there,” said Ellspermann, who at the time was on Brad King’s staff at the State Attorney’s Office. “We wouldn’t make trails, but we would ride on designated roads or whatever was out there.” While working for King, Ellspermann ran into Fred Ayer who was the director of greenways and trails with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. He informed Ayer of his group’s interest in creating official bike trails on the Santos property. Ayer’s advice to Ellspermann was to go back and form a non-profit organization, and out of that sprang forth OMBA, which proceeded to mark areas where trails should be. Biologists with the state came to inspect the potential trail sites. “We walked the trails with them and they’d say, ‘no, that’s too close to a gopher hole, so move that trail,’ or ‘no, that’s too close to an endangered or special tree,’” Ellspermann said. “The earlier trails, we really got into the lime pits that are around there where you could do jumps and other crazy stuff. It morphed from that into what it is today.” There were two keys to pulling off

the project: one was creating a facility that would accommodate hikers and horseback riding in addition to cyclists; the second was to respect the integrity of the property. “While we wanted bike trails, we knew we had a responsibility to the land and to maintain it, be careful with it,” Ellspermann said. “It’s an amazing opportunity that was provided us by the state. They could have shut it down and closed the property. But Fred Ayer had this vision of maintaining it from shore to shore, and it really took off.” In 1935, the Greenway land project turned Ocala into a boomtown of sorts. Then 65 years later, that same property would lead to a boom of a different sort. It was more than just a vision of cyclists that made it successful, it was the knowledge of actual riders that helped shape the trails into such a renowned venue. With the likes of Ellspermann, Frobish and others back in the infancy of the project who had clear understandings of what quality trails should be, the Santos Trailhead is a mountain biking destination unparalleled in the state. “After we built it, word of mouth kind of got out,” Ellspermann said. “In the begin-

ning we would see it pick up from a dozen cars to 20, then we started seeing license plates from Orlando, Miami and Tampa, and this was before it really got started. It wasn’t before too long on a weekend way back in the late ‘90s and 2000s you started seeing 40-50 cars.” There once was a machine that was called “The Crusher” for its ability to turn an acre of cypress trees into a swath of desolation, and it became a symbol of the Florida Barge Canal’s ruthlessness. Today, The Crusher has been replaced by hands bearing simple shovels in attempts to mend paths for the safety of cyclists and create nature trails that hide inside, becoming a symbol of the Greenway’s benevolence. The result has been a grand reputation for Ocala. No longer just “Horse Country,” Ocala is now a mountain biking haven. “There are plenty of riders and a lot of opportunity for growth,” McVeigh said. “In a few years, if not already, people will recognize Ocala as a mountain bike destination second to being a horse destination.”

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | JUL 2021 |

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Adam Sipe 32

Occupation: Co-founder and President, Airplane Intel, Inc. What I like about Ocala: The sincere sense of hospitality. Pet peeve: Wasting time. Philosophy in a word: Adapt. Personal superpower: Grit. Superhuman power I’d like: Fly like a bird. Favorite cause: Veterans Airlift Command.

Guilty pleasure: Jamming out to heavy metal music while driving, running, or cutting the grass. People who know me say I am: Passionate, devoted, and dependable. Greatest professional achievement: Becoming a flight instructor. I indulge too much in: Chocolate.

Alex Bidwell 31

Occupation: Executive Director, Highpoint at Stonecrest Grand goal: To inspire my younger siblings and others to be in leadership roles. What I like about Ocala: The same thing distribution centers like: It’s easy to get everywhere else. Pet peeve: Able-bodied people parking in handicapped spots.

Favorite cause: Alzheimer’s Association and support groups. Historical dinner date: Marjory Stoneman Douglas, to hear her incredible stories about 108 years of activism. Greatest professional achievement: There’s no way to describe the feeling when a person with dementia reaches for your hand for comfort because they recognize you.

Leighton Teddy Okus Sykes

Occupation: Executive Director, Ocala Main Street Grand goal: To leave a legacy of kindness. What I like about Ocala: Baby Bear Burger, crinkle fries and a vanilla malt milkshake at Hungry Bear. Pet peeve: Loud chewing. Philosophy in a word: Love. Personal superpower: Communication. Superhuman power I’d like: Teleportation. Favorite cause: Wear Gloves and Dignity Roasters. Guilty pleasure: Podcasts. Historical dinner date: Barbara Walters. People who know me say I am: Witty. I indulge too much in: Hummus.

| JUL 2021 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

Occupation: Programmer/ Analyst Name of business/workplace: Signature Brands When not working: I am usually working on some sort of art project. What I like about Ocala: The people. Pet peeve: Being interrupted while working. Philosophy in a word: Laugh. Superhuman power I’d like: to be able to pause time. Favorite cause: The local art and music scene. Historical dinner date: Sir Christopher Lee. People who know me say I am: chaotic and unapologetic. I indulge too much in: how-to videos on YouTube.

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Joe Borge 37

Occupation: Residential Designer, Caliber Design & Engineering, LLC Grand goal: Happiness. When not working, I: Keep my body moving. Pet peeve: Never enough hours in the day. Philosophy in a word: Share. Personal superpower: Communication. Superhuman power I’d like: Making dreams

come true. Favorite cause: Ocala Domestic Violence Center. Historical dinner date: Neil Armstrong. Greatest professional achievement: I lost 160 pounds! I indulge too much in: Erica Olstein. She’s my healthy overindulgence.

Mike Mills 33

Occupation: Coffee Bar Franchiseur, Symmetry Coffee, Buzz and Grind. Grand goal: Pursuit of a legacy. What I like about Ocala: Small-town feel. Pet peeve: Self-doubt. Philosophy in a word: Ubuntu. Personal superpower: Empowerment. Superhuman power I’d like: Harnessing the power of a moment.

Guilty pleasure: Potato chips. Historical dinner date: Chris McCandless. People who know me say I am: Passionate? Maybe excitable? Favorite part of my profession: The people! I indulge too much in: Coffee?

Thomas Kaitlyn LoBianco Butler

Occupation: Administrator, Tender Care Medical Services. Grand goal: To be a person my children and their children can look up to. What I like about Ocala: It’s the best of both worlds, country and city. Pet peeve: Someone chewing ice. Philosophy in a word: Perseverance. My personal superpower: Empathy. Favorite cause: The Early Learning Coalition. Guilty pleasure: Fantasy football Historical dinner date: Helen Keller. People who know me say I am: patient, self-sacrificing and humble. Greatest professional achievement: Establishing Tender Care Medical Services in Dunnellon.

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Occupation: Entrepreneur, Coowner of Brick City Food Tours Grand goal: Leave a positive impact on everyone in my path. Pet peeve: Close-minded attitudes. Philosophy in a word: Inclusive. Personal superpower: Intuition. Superhuman power I’d like: To be an apparition. Favorite cause: Access to voting rights. Guilty pleasure: Watching The Bachelor or The Bachelorette. HIstorical dinner date: Susan B. Anthony. People who know me say I am: Motivated. Greatest professional achievement: Launching and making Brick City Food Tours a success. I indulge too much in: Great food!

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | JUL 2021 |

Jocelyn Casey James 31 Daniel W. Autrey 35

Occupation: Owner/Founder CenterState Bookkeeping Grand goal: Empower and inspire. When not working, I: like to spend time with my family. What I like about Ocala: Everything. Pet peeve: Repetitive or inefficient processes. Philosophy in a word: Persistence.

Personal superpower: Connection. Favorite cause: NAMI of Ocala. Guilty pleasure: Plants. Historical dinner date: Joan of Arc. People who know me say I am: Driven and easy to talk to. Favorite part of my profession: Connecting with business owners and helping alleviate some of the stress of business ownership.

Colton Frederick Pennington

| JUL 2021 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

Occupation: Salon Owner and Master Stylist, CpFredrick’s Hair Designs and The Apothecary Grand goal: Help and inspire others. Pet peeve: Complacency Personal superpower: Understanding others. Superhuman power I’d like: To heal others. Favorite cause: Kimberly’s Cottage. Guilty pleasure: Late-night snacks. Historical dinner date: Nikola Tesla. Greatest professional achievement: Opening of my salon. Favorite part of my profession: Changing the way people see themselves. I indulge too much in: Designer bags and clothing.

Occupation: Pastor/Preacher, Souls Harbor First Pentecostal Church. Grand goal: Plant Churches. Encourage People. Develop Leaders. When not working, I : Spend time with family. What I like about Ocala: Feels like a family Pet peeve: Procrastination. Philosophy in a word: Jesus!

Personal superpower: Passion. Guilty pleasure: Doughnuts! Historical dinner date: The Apostle Peter. Favorite part of my profession: Seeing radical transformation in people’s lives. I indulge too much in: Sugar free vanilla iced coffee.

Dezmond Wheeler

Occupation: Graphic design and healthcare administration, Progress Requires Growth LLC When not working, I: Am creating. What I like about Ocala: My family is here. Pet peeve: Excuses. Philosophy in a word: Progression. Personal superpower: Being an intentional father for my son. Superhuman power I’d like: To see the future. Favorite cause: Ambitious Boys Becoming Ambitious Men. Guilty pleasure: Chocolate covered strawberries. HIstorical dinner date: The Honorable Marcus Garvey.

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Krista Ingrilli 28

Occupation: Director Sales at HDG Hotels/ Springhill Suites by Marriott and Owner of Eufloria Flower Cart Grand goal: To be heaven-bound, make my family proud and love well. What I like about Ocala: Big-town growth and a small-town feel. Pet peeve: Timeliness.

Philosophy in a word: Care. Personal superpower: Time optimization. Superhuman power I’d like: Telepathy. Historical dinner date: Pope John Paul II. Greatest personal achievement: Being a missionary for two years in Los Angeles. I indulge too much in: Chocolate chip cookies.

Emma Dingman 27

Occupation: VPK Teacher Business/workplace: Marion County Public Schools Grand goal: Impacting future citizens. What I like about Ocala: Small-town feel. Pet peeve: People smacking and slurping food. Philosophy in a word: Positive. Personal superpower: Finding the good in

bad days. Superhuman power I’d like: Flying. Guilty pleasure: TikTok. Historical dinner date: Frank Sinatra. People who know me say I am: Vibrant and forward-thinking. Greatest professional achievement: 2021 Marion County Rookie Teacher of the Year. I indulge too much in: Bagel Bites.

Erin Garland McClary Brigham Hutchins 23

Occupation: Family Medicine Physician, Sabal Direct Primary Care When not working, I: Am spending time with my family. What I like about Ocala: Still feels like a small town. Pet peeve: Inefficiencies. Philosophy in a word: Purpose. Personal superpower: Juggling life as a physician, mom, wife, and friend. Superhuman power I’d like: Instant healer. Favorite Cause: The R.E.A.C.H. program. People who know me say I am: Exuberant, funny, loyal and empathetic. Greatest professional achievement: Joining Sabal DPC. I indulge too much in: Netflix.

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Occupation: HR Coordinator, World Equestrian Center When not working, I: Coach youth football, read books, and study. Pet peeve: People content with being average. Philosophy in a word: Faith. Personal superpower: Relating to and understand others. Superhuman power I’d like: Power to turn back time. Favorite cause: Gun violence. Guilty pleasure: Watching anime in bed. Historical dinner date: Martin Luther King. People who know me say I am: Calm, understanding, and driven. Greatest professional achievement: Earning my MBA. I indulge too much in: Sleep.

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | JUL 2021 |

Geeta Minocha 23

Occupation: Director of Social Equity, Johns Hopkins’ Medicine for the Greater Good Grand goal: I just want to make the world a little bit better. What I like about Ocala: I’m always struck by how peaceful it is here. Pet peeve: People who treat compassion as a finite resource. Philosophy in a word: Intentional.

Personal superpower: My ability to empathize. Historical dinner date: Theodore Roosevelt. Greatest professional achievement: I was selected to provide testimony for the National Commission on COVID-19 and Criminal Justice. I indulge too much in: Reality TV.

Jamie Gilmore Jr.

| JUL 2021 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

Occupation: Co-Founder/ CEO / Mentor, Kut Different Inc. Grand goal: Add value to every person, place, or thing I come into contact with. When not working, I: am watching sports or something educational. Pet peeve: Hearing excuses. Philosophy in a word: Intentional. Personal superpower: The ability to stay dedicated and committed. Superhuman power I’d like: Teleportation! Guilty pleasure: Watching cartoons. HIstorical dinner date: Reginald F. Lewis. People who know me say I am: Loving, outspoken, and ambitious. Greatest professional achievement: Becoming a business owner.

Jacob Baker 29

Occupation: Recreation Program Supervisor Business/workplace: City of Ocala Parks and Recreation When not working, I: am on my couch with a book and tea. Pet peeve: Disrespect or rudeness to anyone in a service position. Philosophy in a word: Gratitude.

Superhuman power I’d like: Teleportation. Guilty pleasure: Terrible daytime television. Historical dinner date: Marsha P. Johnson. People who know me say I am: Dedicated, driven and generous. Greatest professional achievement: Obtaining Parks and Recreation certification. I indulge too much in: Joking and laughing when it might not be appropriate.

Jamie Williams

Occupation: Integrated Marketing Communications, Marion Senior Services Grand goal: Advocating for arts and culture. When not working, I: am a total “culture vulture.” Pet peeve: People who don’t wash their hands after using the restroom. Philosophy in a word: Create. Superhuman power I’d like: Ability to fly. Favorite cause: Historic preservation. Guilty pleasure: Bubblegum pop music. Historical dinner date: Grace Kelly. Favorite part of my profession: Utilizing my artistic/creative mind. I indulge too much in: Coffee table books on art and architecture.

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Jessica E. McClain 39

Occupation: Director of Governmental Relations and Special Assistant to the President, College of Central Florida Grand goal: I want to be the reason someone believes in the goodness of God. What I like most about living in Ocala: It’s not just a city, it’s a community. My biggest pet peeve: Littering. Philosophy in a word: Jesus.

Personal superpower: Kindness. Favorite cause: Pace Center for Girls. Historical dinner date: Julia Child. People who know me say I am: Resilient. Favorite part of my profession: Knowing I am helping lives change through education.

John Collins Jr. 31

Occupation: Master Program Planner, Real Estate at Lockheed Martin, Family Made Investments, LLC Grand goal: Obtaining generational wealth. When not working, I: Spend time with family. Pet peeve: Not having the ability to be in two places at one time. Philosophy in a word: GoMAD (Go Make A

Andrea Lopez

Amanda Pell

Occupation: Operations Manager, Airplane Intel, Inc. Grand goal: To give back to my community. What I like about Ocala: All the wildlife and nature. Pet peeve: Disloyalty. Philosophy in a word: Growth. Superhuman power I’d like: Flying. Guilty pleasure: Red wine. Historical dinner date: Walt Disney. People who know me say I am: a caring and loyal person. Favorite part of my profession: Learning about different types of aircraft. I indulge too much in: spending time with my dog, Emmy.

Occupation: Yoga instructor Bbusiness/workplace: ONE Hot Yoga Grand goal: Help people see the value in physical, emotional and spiritual wellbeing. What I like about Ocala: Everyone is so friendly! Pet peeve: When people who got to the stop sign before me wave and tell me to go first. Philosophy in a word: Perspective My personal superpower: Finding peace in chaos. Favorite cause: Kimberly’s Center. Historical dinner: Britney Spears -- right before she shaved her head. Biggest professional achievement: Bringing hot yoga to Ocala. Favorite part of my profession: It doesn’t feel like work.

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Difference) Personal superpower: Adaptability Superhuman power I’d like: Ability to see the future. Favorite cause: Ambitious Boys Becoming Ambitious Men. Guilty pleasure: Dancing. Historical dinner date: Chris Johnson. I indulge too much in: B&C Eatery.

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | JUL 2021 |

Sharington Lavette Houston 37 Occupation: Patient Advocate, UF Health Shands Hospital. Grand goal: Create generational wealth for my children. What I like most about living in Ocala: The support from people in Ocala. Philosophy in a word: Sacrifice. Personal superpower: Resilience.

Superhuman power I’d like: To be a cure for all that needs curing. Favorite cause: Educating Ocala on Black History. Guilty pleasure: Chocolate chip cookies. Historical dinner date: Sidney Poitier. People who know me say I am: a bleeding heart, outgoing and dedicated.

Taylor Michel 28

Occupation: Founder/CEO, Synalgic Studios Grand goal: To continue growing as a person. When not working, I: write and record music and enjoy outdoor activities. What I like about Ocala: Seeing the rapid growth and expansion. Philosophy in a word: Growth. Favorite cause: 1 Million Cups Ocala.

Guilty pleasure: Singing in the car. Historical dinner date: Hemiunu of Egypt, the architect behind the Great Pyramid of Giza. People who know me say I am: Wholesome. Greatest professional achievement: Reaching 200k+ downloads on an app I developed. I indulge too much in: Pepsi.

Micah Alexander Childers Quiroz

Occupation: Owner, Hair Stylist Business/workplace: The Boulevard Salon Grand goal: Leave a positive impact. What I like about Ocala: Simplicity. Pet peeve: Pessimism. Personal superpower: Adaptability. Superhuman power I’d like: Power to stop time Guilty pleasure: Binge watching reality TV. Historical dinner date: Marsha P Johnson. People who know me say I am: Kind-hearted Favorite part of my profession: Getting to meet new people. I indulge too much in: Buying random home decor.

| JUL 2021 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

Occupation: Physician, Radiology Associates of Ocala My Grand goal: To live a God-centered life and impact others. What I like about Ocala: The sunny weather, the small-town feel. My biggest pet peeve: Laziness. Superhuman power I’d like: Time traveling. A guilty pleasure of mine: Tacos. Historical dinner date: Jesus, of course. People who know me say I am: Hardworking, passionate and a good friend. Greatest professional achievement: Becoming a physician. I indulge too much in: Social media.

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Aaron Thomas 38

Occupation: Family Advocate and Artist Business/workplace: Kids Central Inc. When not working, I: Paint, attend art shows and spend time with family and friends. What I like about Ocala: The flourishing art scene. Pet peeve: Unoriginality. Philosophy in a word: Originality.

Personal superpower: Turning trauma into art. Favorite cause: Supporting local. Guilty pleasure: Giant beers at the Keep Historical dinner date: Stanislaw Szukalski, perhaps the most prolific art genius that has ever lived. Greatest professional achievement: Surviving two wars.

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Yasmin Ramasco

Occupation: Founder & CEO, Biznct, LLC Grand goal: Leave a piece of my light in as many people as possible. What I like about Ocala: The entrepreneurial community. Philosophy in word: Create Superhuman power I’d like: Teleportation. Favorite cause: Mentorship. Guilty pleasure: Cherry turnovers. Historical dinner date: Martin Luther King Jr. People who know me say I am: Mr. Make it Happen! Greatest professional achievement: Building a successful business. I indulge too much in: Social media.

Occupation: Autonomous Nurse Practitioner, Heart of Florida Health Center Grand goal: To be fulfilled in life. When not working, I: am usually outdoors. Pet peeve: Being late. Philosophy in a word: Love. Superhuman power I’d like: Teleportation. Favorite cause: Access to COVID19 vaccinations. Guilty pleasure: Late night trips for ice cream. Historical dinner date: Hippocrates. People who know me say I am: driven. Favorite part of my profession: Creating relationships with my patients. I indulge too much in: Mashed potatoes.

there's more! Read their entire profiles on ocalamagazine.com | JUL 2021 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

Ashley Dobbs 40

Occupation: Marketing and Communication Manager, City of Ocala Grand goal: To be happy. Pet peeve: When someone goes out of their way to be unkind. Philosophy in a word: Ethical. Superhuman power I’d like: “Bewitched” powers. A wiggle of the nose and … Favorite cause: Magnolia Art Xchange

Guilty pleasure: Afternoon naps Historical dinner date: Ruth Bader Ginsburg. People who know me say I am: Empathetic. Favorite part of my profession: The ability to tell people’s stories. I indulge too much in: Decorations, especially holiday decorations.

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Vickie Treulieb 37

Occupation: Teacher, Forest High School Grand goal: To leave the world a better place than I found it. What I like about Ocala: Its proximity to everywhere in Central Florida. Philosophy in a word: Enlighten Personal superpower: To effectively manipulate words. Favorite cause: Arts appreciation and

education. Guilty pleasure: Naps. Historical dinner date: My Dad. People who know me say I am: outspoken Greatest personal achievement: Writing a book. Favorite part of my profession: Making a difference in children’s lives. I indulge too much in: Buying books.

Katherine O’Brien 39

Occupation: Veterinarian, Maricamp Animal Hospital; Big Bang Property Solutions When not working, I: I love to be outside! What I like about Ocala: Friendly culture. Pet peeve: Smacking! Philosophy in a word: Education. Personal superpower: Healing. Superhuman power I’d like: Flight and telekinesis.

Favorite cause: Kimberly’s Center. Guilty pleasure: Shopping! Historical dinner date: Jesus. People who know me say I am: Busy! Favorite part of my profession: Saving lives. I indulge too much in: Pizza, brownies and Reese’s sticks.

Eddie Q. Alana Rocker Hanshaw Sr. 35

Occupation: Department Manager at TeamCone/CoFounder of Kut Different Inc. Grand goal: Achieve happiness. What I like about Ocala: Growth and opportunity Philosophy in a word: Resilience. Superhuman power I’d like: Reading minds. Guilty pleasure: I have a sweet tooth. Historical dinner date: Muhammad Ali. People who know me say I am: Laid back. Greatest professional achievement: Masters Degree in Public Administration from FAMU. I indulge too much in: Scrolling social media.

| JUL 2021 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

Occupation: Executive Director at Absolute Law Group When not working, I: am spending time with my kids. Pet peeve: Not putting your cart away in a parking lot. Philosophy in a word: Trust. Personal superpower: Gift of gab. Superhuman power I’d like: Time travel. Favorite cause : Alzheimer’s Organization. Guilty pleasure: Shopping for nice purses. Historical dinner date: President George W. Bush. I indulge too much in: Buying too much lipstick!

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Katelyn Livingston 28

Occupation: Occupational Therapist, Strive! Health & Rehabilitation/Ocala Regional Medical Center. When not working, I: enjoy spending time with my husband. What I like about Ocala: Combination of rural and city life. Pet peeve: Negativity. Philosophy in a word: Gratefulness.

Superhuman power I’d like: Flying. Favorite cause: Hospice of Marion County. Guilty pleasure: Sweets. Historical dinner date: Lou Gehrig. Greatest professional achievement: I am the first person in my family to graduate college. Favorite part of my profession: Caring for and helping people. I indulge too much in: Clothes.

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Lynde Johnson

Occupation: Vice President of Airplane Intel, Inc. Grand goal: To have a big, happy family. What I like about Ocala: It still has a small-town feel. Pet peeve: Complaining Philosophy in a word: Integrity Personal superpower: Intuition Superhuman power I’d like: to be able to fly. Favorite cause: The Wounded Warrior Project Guilty pleasure: I like to go fast. Historical dinner date: The real Barry Seal. People who know me say I am: Goofy! I indulge too much in: Eating out.

Occupation: Entrepreneur/ Manager, Golden Ocala Equestrian Center When not working, I: am likely at home with my family. What I like about Ocala: The equine community. Pet peeve: When people touch their already chewed gum. Superhuman power I’d like: To fly. Favorite cause: Streetlight Ministries. Guilty pleasure: Always singing. HIstorical dinner date: My Grandma. People who know me say I am: a hard worker. Favorite part of my profession: Getting to work with horses. I indulge too much in: Fast food!

there's more! Read their entire profiles on ocalamagazine.com | JUL 2021 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

Brittney Mahaffey 29

Occupation: Real Estate Broker/Owner, Ocala’s Finest Real Estate, LLC When not working, I: Roller blade or bowl. What I like about Ocala: driving through tree tunnels! Philosophy in a word: Love. Personal superpower: Spinning many plates. Superhuman power I’d like: To be in

several places at once. Favorite cause: The Early Learning Coalition of Marion County. Guilty pleasure: Cookie dough. People who know me say I am: Optimistic and eager. I indulge too much in: Free People at Dillard’s.

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H O WA R D - M U T A R E L L I

Nuptials

Stephanie Howard married Richard Mutarelli Jr. on April 17, 2021 Bride hometown: Stuart, FL Groom hometown: Ocala, FL Parents of Groom: Mary Beth and Richard Mutarelli Sr. of Ocala Parents of Bride: Fran and Tracy Howard of Stuart Photography: Danielle Love Photography Design: Sheffield House Creative (Jami Gallaway Velez) Ring: Gause and Sons Floral: Harbor Bay Florist, Stuart Venue: Trump National Jupiter How they met: Blind date (at Taco Lu in Jacksonville) set up by a mutual friend in 2015 Engaged: Patio of La Cuisine, December 2019

| JUL 2021 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

Honeymoon: Paws Up Resort in Montana — fly fishing, horseback riding, ATV tours and a hot tub in the snow! Unusual Touches: Hired a New York-style hot dog truck to come serve late night hot dogs, complete with how the bride dresses her hot dog (nacho cheese and flaming hot Cheetos) and how the groom prefers his (ketchup, mustard, onion and relish). The couple’s rescue greyhounds were also sprinkled throughout the event. On drink koozies, on the menu cards, on the programs, and they even had specialty cocktails named after them.

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | JUL 2021 |

Corporate events are golden here. Golden Ocala is the ideal location for corporate inspiration. From golf outings on a majestic, championship course to garden-view strategy sessions and ballroom-surrounded luncheons, we have the picture-perfect office getaway for groups of any size. With state-of-the-art amenities like a touch-screen podium, microphone integration, satellite radio streaming, dual projectors and theatre seats, you’ll be more than ready for team-building, brainstorming and anything else that lies ahead.

Weddings are golden here. From the moment you arrive on our property and see the lavish clubhouse, smell the fragrant rose garden surrounding our grand stairway entrance, you can be assured your hopes, wishes and dreams are in good hands with our professional planner and staff. Let your special occasion become momentous and memorable in our breathtaking indoor and outdoor settings.

GRAND OPENING 2021

OM PULSE Each month, Ocala Magazine will showcase the tastes, opinions and desires of its readers through its online survey. For July, we discovered these inclinations:

The Kitchen

IS THE ROOM THAT OM RESPONDENTS DEMAND THE MOST PERFECTION IN THEIR HOUSE, ACCORDING TO 50%.

The living room is next at 22%, followed by the master bedroom and bathroom at 11%.

78%

OF OM READERS QUIZZED SAID THEY WILL TRAVEL STATEWIDE THIS SUMMER; 56% will travel nationally and 28% will travel internationally.

| JUL 2021 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

THE GUITAR IS THE FAVORITE INSTRUMENT AMONG

78% 28%

OF OM RESPONDENTS SAY THEY DO NOT HAVE A FEAR OF FLYING; 22% DO.

OF OM RESPONDENTS.

The piano and violin are favorites of 22% of respondents.

Superman IS THE FAVORITE COMIC SUPERHERO OF 28% OF OM RESPONDENTS. Wonder Woman is preferred by 22% while Batman and Spiderman are the favorites of 11%.

Ketchup IS PUT ON HOT DOGS BY 78% OF OM RESPONDENTS. The next most popular hot dog toppings are mustard, relish and cheese at 56%, with chili at 44% and onions 39%.

THE BEST PART OF THE INDEPENDENCE DAY HOLIDAY IS THE GATHERING OF FAMILY AND FRIENDS, ACCORDING TO

33%

OF OM RESPONDENTS.

28% say fireworks are the best part while 17% enjoy grilling out the most.

61%

OF OM RESPONDENTS THINK THAT WEARING OF MASKS SHOULD BE OPTIONAL FOR STUDENTS RETURNING TO SCHOOL THIS FALL. 22% say schools should be mask-less while 17% think masks should be required.

HALF OF OM RESPONDENTS

dip their French fries in ketchup

while 28% prefer to dip them in a sauce other than ketchup. 22% of OM respondents like to eat their fries plain.

61% OF READERS POLLED SAY THEY SELDOM USE STAMPS AND ENVELOPES. 22% say they regularly use stamps and envelopes while 17% never use them.

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | JUL 2021 |

invites you to our Signature Event

The Dueling Pianos are playing the oundtrack of your life! Thursday, October 7, 6 p.m. Extension Auditorium | 2232 Jacksonville Rd. plus “The Paintman” creating art on stage Seating is limited--get your tickets today VIP: $100 (table service/drinks, hors d’oeuvres) General: $35 + beer/wine tickets for sale cmoody@hospiceofmarion.com/(352) 291-5143

eat

The beginnings of lobster bisque Photo by Robin Fannon

Selfish for Shellfish p50 | Dining Out p53

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | JUL 2021 |

shellfish

HEALTHY & DELECTABLE STORY, PHOTOS AND RECIPES BY ROBIN FANNON

his month we took a deep dive (pardon the pun) into shellfish. As I was preparing these recipes, I pondered what to write about these delectable little creatures. As it turns out there is quite a lot to say about them. So, let’s first take a look at the nutritional benefits that these babies offer. First of all, they are very low in calories and super high in lean protein, making them a dieter’s dream. In fact, no matter what diet plan you are on, they are acceptable. Shellfish is very high in beneficial Omega-3 fatty acids, which can lower your blood pressure, reduce triglycerides and slow plaque development in your arteries -- just skip deep frying and use healthy oils when cooking them. They are also loaded with vitamin B12 and zinc, which is tremendous for our immune systems, and don’t we all need some of that after the past year! Shellfish is so incredibly versatile, and there is a plethora of recipes out there from which to choose.. Remember Bubba Gump? So, pull up some recipes on the web or your favorite cookbooks and add some aquatic invertebrates to your summer menu repertoire. Your friends and family will thank you. Instagram @RSVP_ROBIN

| JUL 2021 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

Turmeric dusted Sea Scallops INSTRUCTIONS

• In medium to large bowl, mix garlic, parsley, turmeric, olive oil and salt. Next, add scallops and toss to coat. Be sure to use tongs or gloved hands to avoid turning your fingers yellow from the turmeric.

INGREDIENTS

» 16 large wild-caught sea scallops (10-20 size, about 1½ pounds) » 6-8 large cloves of garlic, minced » 1/3 bunch of parsley, leaves only, finely chopped » 1 Tablespoon ground turmeric » ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil » 1½ teaspoons kosher salt » 1 Tablespoon coconut oil • Heat skillet to medium-high heat and add coconut oil. When oil is hot, add scallops. Cook approximately 1-2 minutes per side or until scallops are opaque and feel slightly firm to the touch. Be careful not to overcook as it will result in the scallops being tough.

Coconut Sautéed Shrimp with Orange Dipping Sauce INGREDIENTS

» 1 pound large shrimp peeled and deveined » 2 teaspoons coconut oil for frying (I prefer refined but unrefined works great here, too). » 1 pinch salt

Sauce: » » » » » » » »

½ cup orange marmalade 2 teaspoons stone ground mustard 1 teaspoon prepared horseradish 1 pinch salt Coconut mixture 2 eggs whisked well 1/4 cup coconut flour 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut

INSTRUCTIONS

• Combine all sauce ingredients; whisk well. • In a shallow bowl, pour whisked eggs. In another shallow bowl, combine coconut and coconut flour. Season both sides of shrimp with plenty of salt. • Dip each shrimp into the eggs then coat with coconut mixture. Place the eggcoated shrimp on top of the coconut mixture then cover them with large pinches of the coconut mixture. Press down on the shrimp to firmly coat the bottom of the shrimp. Set aside on a baking sheet; repeat with remaining shrimp. • Heat enough coconut oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat to coat surface. Fry the shrimp in batches until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes total per batch. The bottom of the shrimp will be a beautiful golden brown; flip and cook the other side. Be careful not to overcook. • Drain cooked shrimp on paper towels and lightly salt while still warm.

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | JUL 2021 |

Moules Marinière INGREDIENTS » » » » » » » »

4 pounds live mussels, cleaned 1 garlic clove, finely chopped 2 shallots, finely chopped ½oz butter 1 bouquet garni of parsley, thyme and bay leaves 3½ oz. dry white wine 4 oz. heavy cream A handful of parsley leaves, coarsely chopped

INSTRUCTIONS

• Sweat the garlic and shallots in the butter with the bouquet garni, in a large pan big enough to take all the mussels – it should only be half full. Add the mussels and wine, turn up the heat, then cover and steam them open in their own juices for 3-4 minutes, giving the pan a good shake every now and then. • Remove the bouquet garni, add the cream and parsley and remove from the heat. Spoon into 4 large, warmed bowls and serve with lots of crusty bread.

Clams Posillipo INGREDIENTS » » » » » » » » »

32 Littleneck Clams 3 Tablespoons of olive oil 6 garlic cloves, halved 1 small yellow onion, chopped (about ¼ cup) 1 28 oz. can whole plum tomatoes, with juice Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste 1 Tablespoon tomato paste (optional) ¼ cup chopped fresh basil 1 Tablespoon chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley, plus more for garnish

INSTRUCTIONS

7 crazy, fun facts about shellfish courtesy of www.Foodbeast.com

1. Lobsters taste with their legs and chew with their stomachs. 2. A sea urchin’s mouth is known as “Aristotle’s Lantern.” 3. Oysters can actually change their sex. 4. One little shrimp can lay a million eggs. 5. Americans consume one billion shrimp annually. 6. Lobster was once considered low-class cuisine and served to prisoners. 7. Clams can live up to 35 years.

| JUL 2021 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

• Scrub the clam shells, rinse thoroughly in cold water, and place in a large pot. Add cold water to cover and bring to a boil over high heat. Cook until the shells open, about 5 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the clams to a large bowl. Discard any clams that have not opened. • Strain the cooking liquid through a strainer lined with a coffee filter, and reserve ¾ cup of this liquid as clam broth. Return the clams to the pot, add cold water, and stir to remove any remaining sand. Drain and reserve. • Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium flame and sauté the garlic halves until golden, about 2 minutes. With a slotted spoon or tongs, remove and discard the garlic. Add the onions to the saucepan and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes, until soft and translucent. Coarsely chop the tomatoes and add with their juice to the saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25 minutes, stirring occasionally. • Season to taste with salt and pepper. Stir in the tomato paste (if using) and add the basil and parsley. Simmer uncovered for 5 minutes. • Add the reserved clam broth and clams to the sauce and bring to a boil. Cover, reduce the heat to low, simmer for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the clams are heated through. Spoon the clams and sauce into a large serving bowl, garnish with parsley and serve immediately.

dining out

EAT

Ocala is ready to go out again! Advertise with us to connect with our hungry readers.

Call 352.622.2995 and reserve your space.

West 82° Bar and Grill Looking for a ﬂavor party in your mouth with the best view in Citrus County to tantalize your eyes? 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.

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

We invite you to catch your own in season ﬁsh and scallops which we can prepare in a variety of ways, served family style. 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 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 | JUL 2021 |

IVY ON THE SQUARE

BOUTIQUE

Come visit Ocala’s chic boutique experience, where you’ll discover oneof-a-kind posh gifts, accessories and apparel. Stop by today and get ready to answer the question,

“Where did you get that?”

We appreciate our wonderful customers and the friends they bring by to see us!

42 SOUTH MAGNOLIA AVE., OCALA, FL • (352) 622-5550

play

“Arise” by Carlynne Hershberger 36’ x 36’ | Mixed Media | www.carlynnehershberger.com | www.gallerybocala.com

Socially Speaking p56 | Anthology—Poetry in Motion p62

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | JUL 2021 |

EVENTS

socially speaking

Community Closet Opening PHOTOS BY RALPH DEMILIO

ver 125 people attended the ribbon cutting on June 3rd at the Hispanic Business Council. VyStar Credit Union partnered with the HBC, a not for profit organization, to establish a Community Closet where people who are struggling to get back into the workforce can obtain dresswear support for interviews and work. This has held people back from applying for employment if they don’t feel prepared. Since both organizations are focused on helping the community, and due to the recent COVID-19 impact, they came up with a way to assist everyone to get back on their feet. The HBC’s new faciliy at 2945 NE 3rd Street, Ocala, has an Educational Center where people can go and print resumes and apply online for employment. They will be facilitating educational seminars for small business owners and will provide workshops for community members on many topics, such as how to get hired.

Diane Thomason - President Ocala Promotion and CEP Ambassador, Tirsa Rodriguez – Florida Blue CEP Ambassador, Mireyli Hernandez - V.P. Vystar Credit Union, David Lugo - Biztech Business Development Manager, Brittaney Beall- Southern CPA, Esmirna Caraballo – Founder of The Hispanic Business Council, Julian Sinisterra – Co-founder of the Hispanic Business Council, Miss Ocala Teen USA, Regina Jaramillo – Owner of Bright Corners Cleaning Services , Laurel Batka Ziemann CEP Ambassador

Britaney Beall – Southern CPA, Robert Bisdee – Owner Biztech

Ladesa Santos - Colonial Life District Manager

VyStar Credit Union— Maya Johnson, Mireyli Hernandez and Gil Levy

Ariana Caraballo, owner of ALC Artistic Bakery

Maya Johnson, Mireyli Hernandez and Gil Levy

Sarai Marie Lopez, Miss Ocala Teen USA

| JUL 2021 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

Juan Jaramillo - Owner of Bright Corner Cleaning Service, Obed Caraballo and Blanca Fonseca - Enats

Beautiful home on 10+ secluded acres in the heart of Ocala’s horse country, just minutes from the World Equestrian Center, Golden Ocala, main roads and shopping.

A circular drive and fountain create an attractive entrance to the property. The custom split plan has 5 bedrooms and 5 full bathrooms and high-end finishes. The interiors feature vaulted ceilings with tray accents, crown molding and more. Marble flooring runs throughout the home. The gourmet kitchen offers stainless steel appliances, an extra-large island with water access and ample custom cabinets. A huge master suite has a lounge area leading out to the back patio and features an en suite with walk-in shower, whirlpool tub, custom cabinetry and marble floors. There is an indoor pool with jacuzzi, fireplace, TV, ceiling fans, skylight, and a beautiful wood ceiling. This home is well-equipped for entertaining guests with the back patio featuring two pool tables and a lounge area to watch TV. A covered patio area features a summer kitchen complete with fridge, grill, stove top, sink and microwave. A movie theater offers plenty of seating. The office area has plenty space, with a full bathroom. A guest house has a full bathroom, wet bar, microwave, and back screened-in patio.

Call to see this amazing property today!

Dwan S. Thomas

REALTOR® / CEO of D&S DEVELOPMENT

dwansthomas11@kw.com cell 352.433.8457 office 352.369.4044 dwanthomasrealestate.com

OCALA MAGAZINE

BE A PART OF 41 YEARS OF STORYTELLING We have provided a voice for our community for 41 years and we are dedicated to making that voice known. That’s where you come in! Join our team awardwinning team and help us tell Marion County's stories.

POSITIONS AVAILABLE: Social Editor, Sales, Freelance Writing

WHERE TO APPLY: Email your resumé to Brad@ocalamagazine.com

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | JUL 2021 |

EVENTS

socially speaking

A Kidney For Justin A hole in one experience

Golf Scramble was held for Justin Terrell on June 19th at the Country Club of Silver Springs Shores. Justin is in need of a living donor with an O blood type kidney. He was transplanted at the young age of 12 with his father's kidney 20 years ago. Being the loving husband, father , son and brother that he is , he wants to be able to live his life to be able to take proper care of his family to an old age of his life and to prevent dialysis. Many came in support of Justin, enjoying the 50/50, silent auctions, door prizes, raffles, great foods and drinks. Most of all, they all came for the cause; Justin Terrell and his family. For more information, visit: facebook@kidneyforjustin

| JUL 2021 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

NATURAL HEALTH REDEFINED Acupuncture is recommended for painful conditions, insomnia, allergies, hypertension, and more.

Discover a healthier you! Erica Olstein, DOM, AP Acupuncture, Cupping, & Herbal Medicine

(352) 615-5566

www.ABetterUHealthcare.com 2609 SW 33rd St., Unit 103, Ocala

THE PRINTERS

PLUS !

Beautiful wholesale printing to the trade

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| JUN 2021 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | JUL 2021 |

PLAY

anthology — poetry in motion

Americans

BY JERRY GLASSMAN

We are Irish, Black, Jewish, Italian, French, English, Spanish, Russian, Chinese, Polish, Scotch, Hungarian, Litvak, Swedish, Finnish, Canadian, Indian, Greek, Turk, Czek ... Double check ... Americans

We are all Americans regardless of our race, religion, color, sexual orientation, heritage, etc.

The freedom bell rings out loud and clear that we are all free and equal.

The American Spirit will go on forever!!

We are blessed to be part of it!

| JUL 2021 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

HIS Compassion

FOOD BANK Over 13 million pounds of food distributed in 2020 377,000 boxes of food given in 2020 Over 7,200 families fed per week

at remote handouts in Alachua, Putnum, Marion, Lake, Citrus and Sumter Counties

86 agencies received 186 pallets of food distribution every week (9,672 pallets in 2020) Over 500 families served at our campus weekly

“For I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; ...” 0 hthriss 0 0 , 5 1 Over in 2020 at y

—Matthew 25: 35

genc ered volunteolunteer run a total v

To donate, volunteer, help raise food, or hold a drive, visit

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

HIS Compassion Food Bank 352-351-0732

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 p66

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | JUL 2021 |

EQUINE

everything equine

A true Derby champion Baffert not blameless, but Medina Spirit earned his victory at Churchill Downs BY LOUISA BARTON, Equine Initiative Director at the Ocala/Marion County Chamber and Economic Partnership, Farm Realtor and Host of the Horse Talk Show on the Sky 97.3 PHOTOGRAPHY BY Coady Photography | Facebook: Coady Photography | Twitter: @CoadyPhoto

rom the perspective of someone like me, who has been to all of the big stakes races and to a variety of the less significant ones, I speak from my heart when I say it is all about the horses’ safety, good health and well-being. As a lifelong horse owner — and not ever from a money-making perspective, as I have only ever spent money on my horses — I can see the importance of taking care of our horses and always protecting them to the best of our ability. We are the voice of the horse. In a world that can be confusing to some, because it is often difficult to know

| JUL 2021 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

what might offend some people, I must take care to emphasize what truly matters to me — the safety of the horses. Those who care for them, groom them, train them and ride them, must protect them. Sadly, and especially more recently, groups have spoken out against horse racing, even picketing the tracks and harassing those involved. Many of these groups would like to see horse racing come to an end altogether. I have seen the other side of this sport, the good side of it, and for that I am grateful. For those who say that horses do not like to race, I disagree. I have ridden the hills of Ex-

moor in England and I have seen wild horses run alongside me for no reason other than just that horses love to run. I have seen a race horse unseat a jockey out of the gate and the horse run the entire race without a rider and even run some more after that. Horses love to run, and they love to win. As an advocate for the horse, I have been in the barns of many different breeds of horses in a variety of horse sports and I have never seen a race horse mistreated. Does that mean it does not happen? Of course not, but on a positive note, I have visited the backside of many race tracks and there I have

seen some of the cleanest, most well-bedded stalls, the finest hay, the most groomed horses, baby peeled organic carrots and even toys for them to play with. I do accept the fact that there are people in this world, in all sports, with two-legged and four-legged participants, who break the rules and even cheat at times. However, I do not believe that this occurs more in horse racing than any other sport. I just believe that horse racing is under the microscope a lot more. I personally know a number of wonderful people involved in the horse racing industry who proudly prepare these horses for their racing careers, giving them as many tools as they can to be successful. Many even offer options for rehabilitation when rest is needed, while others offer race training for future careers and some even provide places for them to retire for the rest of their lives. Do I think racing and other horse sports should return to just hay, oats and water? In most cases, I would say yes. In fact, in order to clear this sport of any suspicion, that may be 100 percent necessary. However, if I decided to train for a 5K race myself, I would not be pleased if I was told that I could not rub a therapeutic cream on my calf muscles if they were sore, or use an anti-fungal for a rash. If I could not take an aspirin or Tylenol for a headache the day before a race, I might think twice about training or running at all! On the topic of medication use, since that has been a major concern in horse racing of late, with the Medina Spirit and Bob Baffert Kentucky Derby case in the forefront of racing news, I have a strong opinion. Initially, Baffert stated that Medina Spirit had never been given a steroid. Upon investigation, it was discovered that a cream used for the horse’s rash had contained the steroid Betamethasone. First of all, for anyone who is on the world stage like Bob Baffert, I think he must be above all suspicion. He, of all people, should set a standard for all other trainers. He should have the most immaculate barns with no opportunity for mistakes or accidental contamination. That said, I do know that he cannot be everywhere at the same time. He is “the fisherman” and the media man. He shops for the horses for his clients, he entertains the clamoring media and he puts “the fish in the pond.” The purchased horses go to

If I could not take an aspirin or Tylenol for a headache the day before a race, I might think twice about training or running at all! his assistant trainers in a variety of locations and Baffert cannot be in all places. Perhaps he needs to hire an entire staff in his training barns just to supervise medications and therapeutics prescribed and to monitor and log down these details on every horse, every time. If I were Bob Baffert, I would have that staff in every stall in every barn anywhere that I had horses in training or racing. Either way, he should always be above reproach. He is the face of the sport! Maybe it is time for him to downsize and to try for quality, not quantity of horses and just have less and manage it much better and with much more hands-on accuracy. On that note, Baffert is human, and so are his staff, and as humans, we all make mistakes. I also believe that non-performance enhancing drugs and medications should be set to an allowed level where accidental contamination could never be used to disqualify a trainer or a horse or raise any questions. For example, in harness racing, 100 picograms (a picogram is a trillionth of a gram) of Betamethasone is permitted on race day. This is the non-performance enhancing drug found in Medina Spirit’s system after the Derby. The reason that those who govern harness racing set it at this level is because anything over this amount could not be from accidental exposure. Betamethasone is also used for joint injections, but with different compounds. If there is a question, the other compounds should then be tested. This would answer the question of how this steroid was applied or used. Also, there are at most only 20 horses in the Kentucky Derby. These 20 horses should be tested for everything prior to the race. If there is a drug that is not permitted on race day, the horse should not be allowed to run, period. Knowing these results before the race ever begins would prevent a situation like this from ever occurring again. In the age we now live in with instant everything, and the science

we now have at our fingertips, this should be easy to do. It may cost a bit more money, but at this level of racing, this should also not be a concern. It costs a small fortune to get a horse like this in sport competition. To protect the horses and all those involved — from the breeder and the trainer to the owner and the rider — this is a small investment. It would also mean that the horse that we thought won the Derby really did win it and that would appease the betting public also. In barns on the backside of Churchill Downs in the week up to the Derby, owners and their families and friends pass through the barns visiting and touching their horses. Security in the barns allows those in with owners’ passes. In the Winners’ Circle, there are many hands all over the triumphant horses. Grooms and saddling valets touch the horses and accidental exposure or contamination can happen. For example, Betamethasone is found in my mum’s daily-use psoriasis cream. I am quite sure that a horse could rub his muzzle on her scalp and become contaminated. To what level, I do not know, but it is possible. I also know that my mum would concur that rubbing this cream on her scalp every single day would not enable her to run a race like the race run by Medina Spirit on Derby day this year. In fact, veterinarians, and even Hall of Fame trainer D. Wayne Lukas, stated that the small amount of Betamethasone found could not have made any difference to the race this valiant little horse ran. He ran the race of his life, passing the best 19 horses in the USA to win the Kentucky Derby. Had Medina Spirit been found to have a performance enhancing drug in his system, he should be taken down as the winner immediately and his trainer removed from racing and fined and prosecuted without hesitation. That is unacceptable, but this was not the case with Medina Spirit and his run across the finish line and into the his-

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | JUL 2021 |

tory books. In fact, the Cinderella story of Gail Rice, a small Ocala breeder with just a couple of broodmares, gave us all hope and provided us with a wonderful heart-warming back story very close to home. It saddens most of us who love horses and the sports that involve them to even think about lessening Gail’s achievements and the glory this horse truly deserves. Under no circumstances should a horse ever be given anything that would cheat the system or endanger the horse or rider to win any race. It is not fair on the other competitors, but far more important, any drug that makes a horse think it can exert more effort than it is really capable endangers the horse’s life and the rider on top. In recent years, the deaths at the Santa Anita race track in California brought to the world stage the concerns over these types of drugs and reform began to happen. I do believe this reform is positive and necessary, and I was pleased to see change coming, although I was not convinced that was the main cause of the Santa Anita deaths. That is another topic for another time and we may never have all the answers. For racing jurisdictions to go from the sublime to the ridiculous overnight is bound to cause some problems. I have always used supplements for my horses, knowing that even grass and the highest quality grain and hay may not always provide everything they need. I have never considered that anything I gave my horses was to make them do more than they could. It was to make them more comfortable and as healthy as possible. There are trainers in the race horse world who do the same. Rather than a knee-jerk reaction and a huge drastic overhaul at a variety of differing levels in different states, how about a racing commission over all the tracks in the USA with rules that are the same everywhere and perhaps lining those up with similar rules throughout the rest of the world. For example, a young intern or ambulatory vet at a track in California should not have to concern himself with knowing every rule at every track for every medication or how long that medication or cream could remain in a horse’s system. The outcome could also vary depending on a horse’s metabolism or its size. Every assistant trainer and groom should not need to be concerned about when they should stop using a cream or a therapeutic or a supplement when

| JUL 2021 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

Bob Baffert

We need a commission over all of horse racing in the USA. leaving California tracks to race in Kentucky, New York or Florida. For the future of horse racing, and all those who participate as trainer, owner, breeder or rider, we need a commission over all of horse racing in the USA. This commission would take the power away from the individual states and make the rules uniform across the board. I spoke to Bob Baffert several times over the Kentucky Derby weekend and he didn’t think that Medina Spirit would even come close to winning. In fact, he said it was the first Derby where he was just relaxing and enjoying the races. To think that a Hall of Fame trainer like Baffert would risk drugging a horse he thought had no chance of winning seems quite doubtful. It seems far more likely that a mistake was made, but I do not believe that Medina Spirit was deliberately drugged to win. I also think if Baffert was trying to win and willing to take a risk, he would at least have used something that would help the horse win the race. Some have mentioned Baffert’s other failed drug tests over the past year. I cannot speak to each of those individually and I cannot say that I know Baffert is completely innocent of any wrongdoing or any mistakes. I am certain that as long as we have different rules at racetracks in different states, we will

continue to have difficulties like this. However, I do believe that someone like Baffert should do whatever it takes to avoid ever even being questioned. On a positive note, the rules are the rules and they were put there, wrong or right, to protect the horse. Therefore, if the test results prove to be accurate after all potential requested testing is finalized, then the trainer should be penalized. In the case of Medina Spirit, who ran his heart out and deserved to win the Kentucky Derby, I believe he should stay up. He proved himself when only two weeks later, he took the lead in the Preakness against fresh horses and held on until almost the end and only then tired and fell back to third. He still ran an outstanding race against the best of the best! Medina Spirit is a horse who is all heart. Low level accidental exposure to a non-performance enhancing drug should not steal his victory. If you feel that this is the fault of the trainer or his staff and that they should have had a better handle on the use of an anti-fungal cream, then by all means punish the trainer. Take his license away, fine him, suspend him, ban him or whatever seems to be fair, but do not take away the glory of this ‘little Ocala bred horse’ who definitely deserved the win!

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charity

Care where it’s needed most

Shores Assembly lends help to a community on hard times BY CARLTON REESE |

PHOTOGRAPHY BY RALPH DEMILIO

hen the principal of the elementary school across the street suggests that one of the top needs in the community is child care and education, you know the situation is somewhat dire. Reacting to this suggestion, Pastor John Delcamp of Shores Assembly of God immediately focused his church’s attention toward meeting those child care needs. The result was Kids Prep Academy and the Elijah School, affordable day care and educational opportunities for children in one of the most disadvantaged parts of Marion County.

| JUL 2021 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

“You need to start a good, quality child care center because parents don’t have anywhere to place their kids,” Delcamp paraphrased the school principal back in 2003. He was speaking of the Silver Springs Shores area in which he noted recent demographic studies that showed this community’s average household income to be around $26,000 below the national average. Beyond that, Delcamp points out that one-third of households in the community are headed by a single parent. “We started with four children in the day care and four children in the school,”

Delcamp said. “At one point, we had a backlog of 60 children.” The facilities provide more than just a safe haven for parents to drop off their kids while they go to work. They provide hot meals, Christian guidance and discipline, and even clothes and shoes for those in need. Costs to parents are minimal, relative to similar programs, and are paid mainly through grants and congregational tithes. Delcamp describes the parental hierarchy in the community as such: “What am I going to eat? What am I going to wear, and where am I going to sleep? Education is number 10.

Pastor John Delcamp

The average church in its fold gives out 60 percent of what comes in, but Shores Assembly gives out 90 percent. “When you have education down at the bottom and at the top is, ‘How can I exist?’ basically you’ve got a whole different mentality of people to work with and help.” So before the business of education, certain basic needs must be met, such as providing a hot meal, which is likely the most nutritious meal some of the kids will receive that day. The recent addition of a new 1,400-square-foot kitchen that rivals any top-flight restaurant has made this a more tenable situation for not only feeding kids during the school year, but to also bolster its summer feeding program. Getting from the infancy of the program in 2004 to today’s burgeoning operation has not been without some pitfalls. The downturn of the economy in 2007 took its toll and even interrupted operations for a spell. The problem was not necessarily a drop in tithes, but in the myriad bad checks which started coming in after parents had left their homes at the end of the 2006 school year. At that time, Delcamp said bad checks resulted in $20,000 in losses in just a 3-month span. “We had a person who was with the Department of Corrections, and he went out to houses to collect money and people weren’t there,” Delcamp said. “They had already been foreclosed on.” Adding to the injury were two grants

totaling $50,000 that fell through because “there was no money.” The delinquent checks and failed grants came after the start of declining numbers in the congregation. Delcamp says that the high-water mark of the congregation came in 2005 when there were 130 members and the number has dropped to 25. Nonetheless, Delcamp and the congregation pushed through with its mission. Repairs and cosmetic items were put on hold and Delcamp himself did not take a paycheck. “We were fortunate enough to be able to pull out of it,” Delcamp said. “We just pulled back tight. It took us over three years to make it through that tough time – we didn’t buy anything, we couldn’t do repairs.” The sunlight could be seen on the horizon in 2010 when the U.S. Assemblies of God refinanced their mortgage for $100,000. That enabled for the construction of new playgrounds and other renovations. Since then, there has been an expansion of the facility, addition of the kitchen and growth in the school, which will operate for kindergarten through second grade in the fall. Of the 17 students enrolled, all but one are on scholarship based on income. During that time, Delcamp says the smaller congregation has been as fruitful and

generous as it was during the early 2000s, despite the decline in membership. “Our congregation has developed the motivation that whatever God gives to us, we give out,” Delcamp said. “When our congregation was at 130, they weren’t giving as much money as the 25 (today) are. “We’ve taught them tithing, that the first fruits are not yours, that God gives it to you trusting that you will give it back. If you don’t give it back, you’re stealing from God.” Shores Assembly’s mission is to first meet the practical needs of citizens, mainly through the children. That comes in the form of education, food, clothing and ministry. But not every aspect of the mission is directed solely at children. There is also The Carpenter Shop, which trains adults to enter the workforce and gain employment in trades such as lawn care, carpentry and other handyman skills. Those who before were unemployable now have the dignity of a relevant job in the marketplace. Delcamp sums up the church’s mission by simply referring to the gospel of Matthew, Chapter 22. In it, Jesus says, “Love thy neighbor as thyself.” “We have come to learn that whatever God gives to us, we give away,” Delcamp says. “It does not leave a lot for us to do a lot of things – you can’t make things as beautiful as we want to and in some ways it doesn’t pay to do that.” As proof, a recent study from the Assemblies of God showed that the average church in its fold gives out 60 percent of what comes in, but Shores Assembly gives out 90 percent. Taking in and giving to where it is needed most.

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | JUL 2021 |

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health journal

Knowing the S warning signs of sleep apnea

BRANDPOINT

| JUL 2021 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

leep is essential for everyone. It’s what allows the body and the mind to recharge at the end of every day. Without sufficient, healthy sleep, the brain and the body cannot function properly, so it’s important to recognize signs that you might not be getting quality sleep. Nearly 70 percent of Americans who sleep with a bed partner report that their partner snores while sleeping, according to a 2021 survey by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM). Many don’t realize that a snore can be more than just a noisy nuisance; it

can be an indicator of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), a sleep disorder that can be dangerous to your health when left untreated. Nearly 30 million U.S. adults have obstructive sleep apnea, which repeatedly causes breathing disruptions during sleep. Currently, there are about 23.5 million obstructive sleep apnea cases that are undiagnosed. With OSA, the airway repeatedly becomes entirely or partially blocked, limiting the amount of air that reaches the lungs. When this happens, patients may snore or make choking noises. The brain and body experience severe decreases in oxygen flow, causing multiple arousals from sleep during the night. In more severe cases, these arousals can occur several hundred times a night. Individuals may be completely unaware of experiencing these episodes while sleeping. “While not everyone who snores has sleep apnea, snoring is a warning sign that should be taken seriously,” said AASM President Dr. Kannan Ramar. “If your bed partner snores, or if you’ve been told that you snore, then it is important to talk to a medical provider about screening or testing for sleep apnea. Treatment for obstructive sleep apnea can improve overall health and quality of life.” In the same survey, a quarter of Americans admitted they were not familiar with OSA; nearly half acknowledged they do not know the symptoms of the disease. The following are five warning signs to be aware of: SNORING: Snoring between apneas is typically noticed by a bed partner. CHOKING OR GASPING DURING SLEEP: When snoring is paired with choking, gasping or silent breathing pauses during sleep, it’s a reliable indicator of sleep apnea. FATIGUE OR DAYTIME SLEEPINESS: Excessive daytime sleepiness often occurs because sleep apnea causes numerous arousals throughout the night, preventing your body from getting the high-quality sleep it needs. OBESITY: An adult with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher is considered to be obese and the risk of sleep apnea increases

Excessive daytime sleepiness often occurs because sleep apnea causes numerous arousals throughout the night, preventing your body from getting the highquality sleep it needs.

with the amount of excess body weight. HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE: Between 30 and 40 percent of adults with high blood pressure also have sleep apnea. Other common symptoms of OSA include: • • • • • • • • •

Unrefreshing sleep Insomnia Morning headaches Nocturia (waking during the night to go to the bathroom) Difficulty concentrating Memory loss Decreased sexual desire Irritability Difficulty staying awake, particularly when watching TV or driving

“Delaying treatment for sleep apnea can lead to more serious health problems,” added Ramar. “Fortunately, many of the damaging

effects of sleep apnea can be stopped, and even reversed, through diagnosis and treatment by the sleep team at an accredited sleep center, where patients receive care in safe and comfortable accommodations.” Sleep apnea is typically treated using continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy. This therapy keeps the airway open during the night by providing a gentle air stream through a mask worn while sleeping. Using CPAP can improve your overall quality of life by enhancing sleep quality and boosting daytime alertness, concentration and mood. It can also decrease medical expenses and improve both your brain and your heart health. Alternative treatments include positional therapy, oral appliance therapy and surgery. For more information or to find an accredited sleep center, visit sleepeducation.org. To access the AASM 2021 Sleep Prioritization Survey, visit aasm.org/about/newsroom/.

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | JUL 2021 |

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state of the city

Every park has a story and we want to hear it. BY ASHLEY DOBBS

| JUL 2021 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

#OcalaRecPark

Throughout the month of July be sure to follow the Ocala Recreation and Parks department on Facebook (@OcalaRecPark) and share your favorite memories with our staff.

here to serve the community in every capacity, whether it’s indoor or outdoor activities. With a variety of parks to fit every lifestyle, the City of Ocala Recreation and Parks Department has something for everyone: pocket parks in neighborhoods, large-scale parks downtown, art parks, splash parks, sports parks, nature parks and parks for exercising. The possibilities are endless when it comes to enjoying what Ocala parks have to offer. We want to hear your positive stories about our parks. Throughout the month of July be sure to follow the Ocala Recreation and Parks department on Facebook (@OcalaRecPark) and share your favorite memories with

our staff. Maybe you enjoy using the walking trails and it leads to a healthier lifestyle. Perhaps you’ve attended one of the free concerts, a summer camp, swam at one of our aquatic centers, or your kids beg you to take them to the splash pads. We want to hear about engagements, photo shoots with families, maternity shoots and friends picnicking in the park. Using the hashtag #OcalaRecPark, share your pictures, memories, and videos with us and your story may become intertwined with the stories we share. Ashley Dobbs is the Marketing and Communications Manager for the City Of Ocala.

Photos courtesy of The City of Ocala

he City of Ocala is home to 43 parks throughout the city limits and within each of these parks lies a history, a story, and a memory for someone at a point in time. As we celebrate National Parks and Recreation Month during July, we will focus on “Our Park and Recreation Story,’ allowing us the opportunity to think about our own stories that shaped our love of public parks. While many people see parks as greenspace filled with walking trails and playground equipment, there is so much more than what meets the eye. Our parks provide a refuge to some -- a place to unwind, decompress, feel healthy, or gather with loved ones. Stepping into a park can be transformative, like stepping away from the noise of the day and reconnecting with nature. Parks can create childhood memories that carry over to adulthood. For many of us, we may have learned to ride a bike in a public park. The wide-open spaces filled with soft, green grass provided the perfect place to fall when we hadn’t mastered our balancing abilities. Or maybe it was a gathering place for friends, where playing a game of baseball or shooting hoops on a public court built lifelong friendships. Children’s birthday parties with friends under pavilions, laughter on playgrounds and speed-walking adults exercising are images that fill my mind when I think about public parks. These parks become enjoyable spaces because of the people behind the scenes who make them possible. We often take for granted the hard work that it takes to make these parks run daily. Our city recreation and parks staff is dedicated to making sure things are running smoothly and operating safely for everyone to enjoy. In addition, these workers create programming that keeps people engaged and physically active. Staff is constantly creating summer camps, sports classes, educational classes and craft activities for children, young adults and our senior population. The recreation and parks team is

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state of the county

Bows and arrows Take your shot at Marion County’s brand new archery range BY STACIE CAUSEY SHOOT ON OVER TO SILVER SPRINGS SOMETIME SOON AND ENJOY MARION COUNTY PARKS AND RECREATION’S NEWEST FACILITY, THE SILVER SPRINGS ARCHERY RANGE. The range offers a vast selection of targets to accommodate a wide variety of shooting disciplines and skill levels. Its primary focus is on three-dimensional (3D) targets – lifelike high-density foam animal targets placed in woodland settings to simulate a hunting environment for archers. The Silver Springs Archery Range boasts two complete 3D ranges with 15 targets apiece as well as a year-round 3D practice range with up to 15 additional targets. These are the official targets used by the Archery Shooters Association (ASA), a national organization that organizes a full schedule of tournaments and operates chapters in 30 states, with approximately 7,000 members. As a local member of the Archery Shooters Association, the Silver Springs Archery Club aims to take advantage of Marion County’s mild winters to expand the ASA’s tournament schedule. Event organizers hope this facility will provide a “winter home” and a tournament destination for archery enthusiasts nationwide. The Silver Springs Archery Range also features a four-target Olympic-style range with targets set between 20 and 100 yards, with additional targets to accommodate speed bow and crossbow shooting. Currently, the range is open to the public on Thursdays, and Silver Springs Archery Club memberships are available for access seven days a week. For more information on the Silver Springs Archery Club, visit silverspringsarchers.org or call 352-351-3766. HANG OUT WITH YOUR FRIENDS AFTER SCHOOL WITH PARKS & REC Back-to-school programs are returning to

| JUL 2021 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

Brick City Adventure Park and the Forest Community Center this August. These programs are for students in grades K-5 from South Ocala, Ward-Highlands, and East Marion elementary schools. After-school care is provided along with activities designed to promote team building, social skills, work ethic and strong study habits. Kids will have the opportunity to take part in a rotating schedule of team sports, arts and crafts, as well as fun science experiments along with some tasty snacks. These after-school programs run from 2-6 p.m. Monday through Friday, starting Aug. 10, and begin at noon on school half-days. Participants are also encouraged to join in on Kids’ Night Out at Brick City Adventure Park or Fun Friday at Forest Community Center. These events feature a rotating schedule of fun activities and games, as well as pizza. For registration information, call Marion County Parks & Recreation at 352-671-8560.

IT STARTS IN PARKS! (EVEN YOUR WORKDAY) If you’re looking for a new career opportunity or a fun way to make some extra money this summer, Marion County Parks & Recreation has you covered. We are now hiring ages 16 and up. Positions are currently open for seasonal parks service workers, building and grounds maintenance technicians at the Southeastern Livestock Pavilion, and recreation leaders in charge of planning and overseeing recreational programs. If you are a student in need of volunteer hours or an internship, Marion County Parks & Recreation is a great option as well. Check out all of the opportunities to get in on the fun at marionfl.org/careers or call Human Resources at 352-438-2345 for more information. Stacie Causey is a Public Information Specialist for the Marion County Board of Commissioners.

2021 Sportsman’s Dinner and Auction August 26th, 2021 | 6-9:30pm Palm Grove Club at Oak Run

Benefitting Marion County’s Children Casual Dress | BBQ Dinner | Full Bar Included Live and Silent Auctions of Hunting and Fishing Gear Plus items for the Ladies, Door Prizes and Raffle items, too! $500 - Table of 8 (save $100) or $75 Per Person www.ocalakiwanis.org for tickets or sponsorships

For More Information Contact: Roseann Fricks 352-812-5639 or Tammy Hoff 352-299-5210

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Kiwanis

Korner

Honored Guest Speakers

he Kiwanis Club of Ocala hosted several honored speakers during the month of June. Greg Harrell, the new Marion County Clerk of Court, shared his mission in caring for the citizens of our County during and post COVID. Gary Rigby brought his 7 year-old grandson. Eddie Petrie lead the flag salute. Matt Grow, the Director of the Ocala International Airport, shared new and upcoming changes to improve our airport and it’s services on the local level and for those flying nationally and internationally. Monty Python not only spoke but sang a special tune relating to the history of cosmology and our galaxy. The most touching was when Morrey Deen, beloved Ocala Police Chief for many years, talked on behalf of the Honor Flight he founded for Ocala and our World War II Veterans. After his presentation, he honored one of our own World War II Vets and long-time Kiwanis member, Doug Oswald for his many years of service to our Country. Not a dry eye was in the room. Jim McGuire gave special introductions to the upcoming speakers, while other members enjoyed being educated, entertained and inspired by them.

Joe Voge, President

Greg Harrell, Marion County Clerk of Court

Gary Rigby and Grandson, Eddie Petrie Jim McGuire

Beverly Angelotti, Louise Werner, Tammy Hoff, Incoming President

Greg Harrell, Rob Davis, Bill Davis, Wes Wheeler

Monty Python

Morrey Deen

Morrey Deen & Doug Oswald

Matt Grow, Director Ocala International Airport

FOR MORE INFORMATION

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

| JUN 2021 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

HONOR THE HEROES Ocala Kiwanis Brick Program Sponsoring Camp Kiwanis for the Kids In Honor of Nick Nikkinen, Nikkenen,Chair Chairof of the Camp Kiwanis Trustee Board and Assistant Property Appraiser of Marion County. Nick recently passed from complications of COVID.

Honoring All Heroes During COVID 19 Caretakers, Nurses, Doctors, Military, Volunteers, or any person meing a difference during the pandemic season. Bricks may be also purchased to honor anyone that has passed during this period of COVID.

Each brick: $250 minimum donation. May include name of honoree, reason for honoring and/or description of honor (3 16-character lines).

Deadline for purchase:

Nov 10, 2021

Dedication Ceremony at Camp Kiwanis on

Nov 20, 2021

For more info and order forms:

NC Sizemore: 352-291-8778 or ncsizemore@gmail.com or Karen Karin Dailey: Dailey: 518-669-3696 ocalakiwanis.org Facebook: Kiwanis Club of Ocala http://bit.ly/Kiwanisbricks

From camping at Camp Kiwanis (since 1948), to projects to improve academics, citizenship, and child safety, the Kiwanis Club of Ocala serves and cares for the children of Ocala and surrounding areas. 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.

Rotary

Circle

Travel to Classical Greece with Ocala Rotary Club

ravel back thousands of years to a time of great architects, philosophers and mythical gods on this journey to Greece! Greece is the place for you in 2022! Ocala Rotary Club is promoting this awesome trip to Greece as a club fundraiser. The trip is May 12-20, 2022. There is plenty of time to prepare. Not only do we get to enjoy this great trip but we also raise funds for many worthy causes of Rotary.

www.indus.travel/tour/classical-greece-with-ocala-rotary-club To learn more about joining Rotary, please visit: www.RotaryInternational.com

| JUL 2021 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

Follow Rotary On Facebook

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.

Coming Soon:

The sequel to David Cook’s book, with new articles and history. The Way It Was: A Trek Through Marion County’s Past $25.

MORE INFORMATION COMING SOON ON TITLE, COVER AND PURCHASE LOCATIONS.

A Special Thank You

to all homeowners, donors and volunteers who supported and sponsored our Spring Garden Tour. Watch for details about our upcoming

2021 Christmas Home Tour

2021 Historic Ocala Preservation Society Board Members Brian Stoothoff — President Rhoda Walkup — Vice President Richard Perry — Secretary Dennis Phillips — Treasurer Pamela Stafford — Past President 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

Eighth Street Elementary, circa 1937

Eighth Street Elementary Ocala’s timeless wonder is also Florida’s most historic school venue BY CARLTON REESE WITH THE HISTORIC OCALA PRESERVATION SOCIETY

he myriad Victorian structures and other historic venues evoke more than just feelings of nostalgia, but also a love and pride in one’s own moment of this glorious timeline. Rarely, though, is a true connection made between a person and a building beyond the mere glimpse into what life may have been like in earlier times. At least one old building in Ocala does just that by providing a real-life connection to the thousands whose lives were once inexorably shaped there. That would be the current Eighth Street Elementary School building in which many future leaders of this community were reared. Built in 1914, the structure itself has acted as a schoolhouse on different levels without interruption, making it the state’s longest continuously operating school building. Today, other schools across the state may be housed in older buildings, but none have housed a school the entire time. Upon its completion, the current Eighth Street Elementary was the first home of Ocala High School, which relocated to the site

| JUL 2021 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

of the current Osceola Middle School when that structure was built in 1925. At that point, it became Ocala Grammar School, then Ocala Junior High in 1942. In those days, the school was for grades 4-8, with seventh- and eighth-graders located upstairs and all others downstairs. In 1965, the school became known as Eighth Street Elementary School—and with several renovations—appears to have a long future still ahead of it. Through its doors saw the likes of Buddy McKay, who would go on to become a representative in the United States Congress and was lieutenant governor to Lawton Chiles, then Florida’s 42nd governor upon Chiles’ death in 1998. Ocala Mayor Kent Guinn and former police chief Morrey Deen are also listed among Eighth Street Elementary School’s “Star Alums.” Through the years, the school has evolved from one where no fans or air conditioning gave comfort to students or teachers, to one in which the $2.6 million renovation project in 2001 have upgraded it to be on par

with modern facilities. Inside, one can view pictures of all the past principals, who seem beloved in a way most particular to this school. Standing out among them is Helen Ingrao, who started at Eighth Street as a curriculum coordinator in 1973, then became principal in 1982. Her tenure of 20 years is longest of any in school history and would have been longer if not for her death in 2001. Ingrao’s death at age 58 came as a shock to the citizenry and the large headlines and number of stories written in the local paper at that time served as testimony to her importance in the hearts of Ocalans. A memorial to Ingrao exists at the school’s flagpole, dedicated in her honor. In 2014, the school celebrated 100 years with all the pomp required of such an occasion – speeches from local and state dignitaries and even presentations from students past and present. What exists now is a building that sees children whose great-grandparents walked the halls and one that is poised to host the next several generations as well.

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Ocala Magazine July 2021 Digital Issue

Articles inside

State of the City: Code Enforcement

Rotary Circle

Kiwanis Korner

Health Journal: Identifying sleep apnea

ETC

40 under 40: Ocala’s up-and-comers

EQUINE

It’s summertime, shellfish time

From the Editor’s Desk

Letter from the Publisher

Howard-Mutarelli wedding

From the Mayor

Ocala becomes a mountain biking mecca