Ocala Magazine July 2022 Digital Issue

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

OCALA MAGAZINE

JUL 2022

Emerging Artists Patriot Service Dogs Summery Sweet Fashion

40 2022

Under Forty

Luxury Equestrian Living

136+/- Acre state-of-the-art estate professionally sculpted and architecturally designed main residence with 5 bed/ 4 bath overlooking your own private lake. The Inn offers 8 en-suite bedrooms plus Chef ’s kitchen and living area. 27-stall stable, 5/8+/- mile synthetic cushion training track. 5-stall quarantine stable. $12,100,000

Custom-built Palatial Chateau on 82+/- acres. Absolutely rare and hard to find 4 bed/4.5 bath main residence, gourmet kitchen, formal dining, and spacious family room. 4-Car garage with 1/1 guest quarters. Grand show stable with 18 stalls and 1/1 apartment. Great NW location. $9,105,000

Pending

Prestigious 4 bed, 4.5 bath pool home in gated Country Club Farms on 4.55 +/- acres of equine friendly property. 4 car garage plus separate 1 bed/1 bath perfect for guests or gym. Located minutes to the Florida Greenways and The Florida Horse Park $1,450,000

5.5+/- Acres in gated Summit II equine friendly community. Just minutes to town and all its conveniences. 4 Bed, 5.5 bath home.

Chef ’s kitchen offers access to the private outdoor veranda and private lap pool. 3 stall center aisle barn. $1,495,000

In 2022: $21,130,160 Sold • $25,410,530 Pending

g

Considering Ocala?

29+/- Prestigious acres in NW area of Ocala. 3 Bed, 3.5 bath pool home. 8 miles to World Equestrian Center. As you enter the foyer you greeted by the beautiful views of the property. This property offers room to layout your dream farm plus room to ride, train and raise your horses or cattle. $2,997,000

Beautiful 2-story home overlooking 28+/- acres. 4 Bed, 3 baths formal living, formal dining, chef’s kitchen open to family room with brick fireplace and extra-large windows to enjoy panoramic views of the property.

Barn/equipment building features guest quarters. Located a short distance to schools, hospitals, and restaurants. $2,450,000

Pending

State-of-the-art equestrian sporting horse facility that has it all - perfect for any breed. 13+ Acres, main home features 3 bed, 3.5 baths, gourmet kitchen and spacious covered lanai. 3 Car garage covered round pen, lush paddocks, 24 stall concrete block show stable, 2 bed, 1 bath guest apartment with separate office. $1,600,000

29+ Acre equestrian farm with HWY 27 frontage across from HITS and convenient to the World Equestrian Center (WEC). 4 Bed, 3 bath main residence. 22 Stall barn, lush green paddocks. Equipment building 2 RV hook ups and 2 bed, 2 bath mobile home. $1,897,000

List with us today!

R E A LTO R ®

This Is Horse Country 2 se 40, 4 a h c r u P -Acres or 82+/ oice!

Your Ch

40+/- Acres located just minutes to World Equestrian Center – Highway 27 Frontage – Great location! 3/3 pool home plus 1/1 cabana. 18- Stall barn with office, full bath and tack room. Zoned A-1 with RL and MR land use. Adjoining acreage is also available. $5,088,000

42+/- Acres located just minutes to World Equestrian Center – Highway 27 frontage. Includes pond, gated entrance, 20 Stall barn, round pen plus open storage. Land is zoned A-1 with Rural land and Rural Activity center. Adjoining acreage is also available. $4,231,000

Location, Location, Location! Prime location for a developer with Highway 27 frontage, 75+/- acres with easy access to World Equestrian Center. Barn plus several fenced paddocks, perfect for any discipline. Zoned A-1 with land use of MR - Medium Residential Call for Pricing.

39.78 Acres. Located less than 1 mile to HITS and 12 miles to the World Equestrian Center. Green pastures to raise and train your horses. Perfect for jumpers or eventors. 3 Large paddocks. Looking to build your dream home or seasonal place, this is it. $1,389,700

R E A LTO R ®

Let Me Show You Ocala!

10+ Acres located minutes to HITS and the World Equestrian Center. 3 Bed / 2 bath home features 1,950 SF. Open Kitchen - family room. Expansive living room with fireplace and large windows overlooking the farm. Beautiful views of the sunrises and sunsets. $699,000

50+/- Beautiful acres of gently rolling land in Emerald Mile deed restricted community. Property is located just 12 miles to the World Equestrian Center.

Perimeter fenced and ready for horses or cattle. Bring your plans to build the perfect home or farm. $315,000

Home is perfectly located near shopping schools, restaurant’s and hospitals. Quite neighboorhood off SR 200. 3 Bed / 2.5 bath home with open floor plan, formal living, formal dining and family room with access to lani. Spacious owners suite and fenced back yard. $315,000

10+ Acre gentlemen’s farm located just a short distance to the World Equestrian Center. 2-Story home has a wraparound porch. 5 Bed / 3 bath features great room with brick wood-burning fireplace opens to kitchen and dining room.

Includes a lit arena, 4 stall barn and 4 paddocks. $750,000

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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CELEBRATING OUR 42ND YEAR!

JULY • 2022 FEATURES 16 40 Under 40 28 Summery sweet fashions 34 Ocala’s Emerging Artists 40 Stan and Jessica McClain nuptials 42 Olstein-Borge wedding 46 Hawthorne Estates independent living

DEPARTMENTS 10 Letter from the Publisher 12 Words of Wisdom 14 From the Mayor

51 52 53

EAT ‘Jennifer Anniston salad’ Dining Out

55 56 58 60

PLAY Ocala VW Riders Annual Car Show Hawthorne Estates antique car show Anthology: Poetry in Motion

63 64

EQUINE Healed by horses

67 66 70 72 74

ETC Charity Spotlight: Patriot Service Dogs Health Journal: Dealing with pollen season State of the City: Celebrating parks and recreation State of the County: Marion County Citizens Academy 2022 Kiwanis Korner Rotary Circle Looking Back: The future of an old schoolhouse

p. 28 Sweet summer fashion at Grandpa Joe's Photo by Ralph Demilio

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

ON THE COVER: OCALA MAGAZINE

40 under 40 alumni Sullivan Hogan Photographer: Ralph Demilio

JUL 2022

Emerging Artists Patriot Service Dogs Summery Sweet Fashion

40 2022

Under Forty

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| JUL 2022 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

76 79 80

AMERICA’S HOME PLACE

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Volume 42, Issue 1

JULY 2022

OM

OCALA’S #1 MOST AWARD-WINNING CITY MAGAZINE

CELEBRATING OUR 42ND YEAR! Philip Glassman, CCIM | Publisher philip@ocalamagazine.com

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

EDITORIAL Carlton Reese | Editor carlton@ocalamagazine.com

ART Little Black Mask Media | Creative Direction, Design + Production jessi@ocalamagazine.com

Brad Rogers | Contributing Writer + Editor brad@ocalamagazine.com Robin Fannon | Food + Lifestyle Editor robin@ocalamagazine.com

PHOTOGRAPHY Ralph Demilio | Chief Photographer ralph@ocalamagazine.com

Sharon Raye | Copy Editor

CONTRIBUTORS Louisa Barton | Equine Columnist Mark Anderson/Marion County | Writer Ashley Dobbs/City of Ocala | Writer Mayor Kent Guinn | Columnist OPERATIONS Randy Woodruff, CPA | CFO randy@ocalamagazine.com

Ocala Magazine Wins Five 2022 Florida Magazine Association Awards!

EDITORIAL OR ADVERTISING INQUIRIES 352.622.2995

www.ocalamagazine.com OFFICIAL MEDIA PARTNER HOPS — Historic Ocala Preservation Society MEDIA PARTNER & PRESENTING SPONSOR of the Tailgating Competition at Live Oak International OFFICIAL MEDIA SPONSOR FOR 2022 International Women's Day Celebration EXCLUSIVE MEDIA SPONSOR FOR George Albright Annual Golf Tournament OFFICIAL MEDIA SPONSOR FOR FINE ARTS FOR OCALA

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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.

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Community

Solar Program

Renewable Energy with Zero Emissions Going solar is a big decision and it’s important to be informed of your solar options. Ocala Electric Utility (OEU) is expanding solar capacity within the community, and we encourage our customers to learn about their solar options. We are your hometown, reliable, public power provider and we are here to assist you with all your solar needs.

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Benefits of Community Solar All customers have access to solar energy No contracts or upfront costs No equipment installed on your home Maintenance free Keep solar if you move within OEU service territory Apply today at OEUSolar.ocalafl.org or call 352-629-2489

LETTER

from the publisher

Patriots of all shapes and sizes WITH THE MONTH OF JULY UPON US, in addition to the patriotic sentiments we feel, I am especially excited that this is the birth month of my first born 11 years ago. I think of all the blessings my child has brought to me over the years and it is fitting that it comes in this month when we should all recognize the blessings we enjoy thanks to the sacrifices of our military personnel over many generations.

To bring up a child in this great land of ours is more than a blessing, it is a privilege that should not be taken for granted. When we celebrate Independence Day this month, patriotism is in the air. It is a time when we not only count our blessings for being citizens of a great and free country, but also to reflect upon those who helped build and maintain its freedoms through their own sacrifices.

Any cause that furthers the well-being of our veterans, especially those whose lives were altered in a great way either physically or emotionally, is one that all Americans should find easy to get behind.

This month’s Charity Spotlight feature is among those and it has a rare benefit of helping out in two different ways: Patriot Service Dogs.

Based in Belleview, Patriot Service Dogs trains canines to help military veterans who are struggling with myriad physical or emotional conditions. Many veterans have issues with mobility or are suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder or other similar ailments, and trained service dogs can help alleviate some of the suffering. Trained to help veterans accomplish some everyday physical tasks, they also provide a calming influence on those who need it most.

In supporting an organization like Patriot Service Dogs, one is not only helping veterans in need they are also helping to bring hope to incarcerated women. The organization taps into the skills of women incarcerated at the Lowell Correctional Institution as part of the training. At the prison, women are schooled in becoming good trainers themselves.

How much more patriotic can one be than supporting an organization that helps out our veterans and at the same time uplifts incarcerated females? Thinking of a veteran who answered the call of his country and suffered some sort of debilitating injury is truly heartbreaking. One of our Founding Fathers, John Adams, famously stated after the ratifying of the Constitution that this form of government was “… made only for a moral and religious people.” As such, it is our duty to be moral, and that includes taking care of those who sacrificed so much for this land.

As it is, less than 1 percent of veterans who apply for assistance from these service animals are able to receive it. With Independence Day upon us, it’s good to know that there are organizations like Patriot Service Dogs out there to tap into those patriotic feelings that reside in us. Because of the training school at Lowell and the fact that all dogs are donated, the costs are minimal and veterans spend no money out of pocket for these dogs or their training. This also puts the onus on the rest of us to make sure it can happen. It is up to us to donate the animals, volunteer our time and pour the money in where it belongs. Few of us have had the opportunity to serve our country the way veterans have, but being good citizens is no small measure of patriotism. Supporting organizations that support our veterans while also uplifting the lives of those who are incarcerated is a good way of being patriotic, of making sure everybody wins in this great land of ours.

PHILIP GLASSMAN, PUBLISHER

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Patriot Service Dogs

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words of wisdom

The Master of ‘Cue

R

ashad Jones is living the American Dream. And he knows it. His path to success is amazing — so much so he wants to share what it takes to achieve the Dream with whoever will listen. It’s a story worth hearing.

Jones is owner of “Big Lee’s: Serious About Barbecue” in Ocala. Business is booming. He’s got a beautiful wife and four sons, ages 5, 7, 9 and 11. He won the Food Network’s “BBQ Brawl” last month and was crowned the channel’s “Master of ‘Cue” and awarded his own Food Network show. He is the toast of the town.

And, by the way, he makes a mean brisket, slow cooked over kiln-dried Central Florida oak.

Oh, I should mention he only started in the barbecue business eight years ago.

How he got to this point is a remarkable pull-yourself-up-by-the bootstraps story.

After graduating from Lake Weir High, he was homeless at 18 and lived at the Salvation Army for a couple months. He said he was not obeying his mother’s rules at home, so she told him, “You can have all the freedom you want,” and she told him to move out.

“It was humbling,” Jones said, remembering the odor that went with living in a dorm with other homeless men. But out of that, he learned accountability.

“It made me what I am today,” the 43-year-old said. “I’m resilient, tough, strong. I’m not going to fall apart at every little thing.”

The biggest lesson he learned from that experience was the importance of accountability.

“Accountability – put that in all caps, ACCOUNTABILITY,” Jones said. “That’s huge. That’s what we all need.”

Jones would go on to attend CF and eventually go to work for the Marion County Health Department. His foray into barbecue was inspired after a Thanksgiving visit to his wife’s family in the Mississippi Delta. Her Uncle Leon, who friends called Big Lee, fixed a huge spread of barbecue for not just the family, but the neighborhood. Jones loved it.

He brought home Big Lee’s barbecue tips and started cooking his own. In 2013, his wife pushed him to enter a local barbecue competition, “Bad 2 the Bone BBQ.” He

never envisioned winning, then …

“I swept that competition,” Jones said.

One judge was so impressed that he posted the following on his Facebook page: “Rashad Jones, not only was your barbecue the best that all three judges tasted tonight, your barbecue’s the best barbecue I’ve ever tasted.”

Jones and his wife, Patrice — who he calls “Superwoman” and who holds a Ph.D. in health policy research — sat down and decided to go into the barbecue business.

That was 2014. Today, Big Lee’s is an iconic part of Ocala’s food scene, and even Jones marvels at how quickly it has all happened and the exposure his ‘cue has brought him.

“It’s amazing.It’s unbelievable,”he said.“How do you make the jump from having zero food background to having arguably the best-known food brand in Ocala? Well, it’s a God thing.”

Jones said his American Dream is built on what is the quintessential American food that started with meat being cooked on an open grill and continues to be cooked the same way today.

“This cuisine is historically American,” he said. “I think that’s why barbecue brings people together like it does... It’s universally inclusive.”

Jones does not take his success for granted and attributes much of Big Lee’s growth to Patrice.

“She’s everything,” he said, explaining she oversees the administrative end of the business. “The idea of cooking barbecue connects back to her. Her roots in the Mississippi Delta. Everything connects back to her.”

With 15 employees and four food trucks and trailers (and another in the works), Big Lee’s is not close to the biggest eating estab-

Rashad Jones, as seen on BBQ Brawl Photos courtesy of The Food Network

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BY BRAD ROGERS lishment in Ocala. But the tremendous attention and success Jones has found in such a short time has made him a curiosity and someone others look to for guidance.

So, you will frequently see Jones talking to groups of all ages, especially young people, telling his story. Besides ACCOUNTABILITY – you know, in all caps — Jones says a person must be motivated, make good decisions and not be afraid to look fear in the face. All that requires leadership.

“It all boils down to leadership,” he said.

“Only leadership, leading your own life, can do that for you.”

It has worked for Jones – and remarkably quickly, for sure. Yet, for all his confidence and humility, Jones wasn’t always so sure he would succeed.

“I had concerns about whether people would show up,” he said.

Well, they did show up and how fitting that Ocala’s own celebrity chef is “100 percent barbecue.”

As for what to do with his success?

“It’s impossible to see all the opportunities success creates,” Jones said. “It means you have a platform, you have influence. And through that platform and influence, it gives you a chance to do good in the world.”

And cook up some darn good barbecue.

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MAYOR

from the

Summit provided lessons for mayors

BY MAYOR KENT GUINN

W

hat an honor it was to represent the great city of Ocala at the recent Yale School of Management CEO Summit and Mayors College in New York City.

The first day of the summit was held at the Yale Club and included mostly mayors, and discussions included everything from growth to gun control to crime – issues that are common to every city.

Interestingly enough, the conference was evenly divided between 50 percent Democrat mayors and 50 percent Republican mayors which created a great give-and-take on discussions.

The ability to have such discussions and truly hear and understand different perspectives was one of the main points of the conference and something that I and many others took to heart.

One of the big things I gathered from the conference was how important it is – especially for someone in a position as mayor – to think more critically and engage all sides and opinions of an issue. Too often we reside in our echo chambers of thought and ideology, which is equally true of those on the political left and right. But as a mayor, or anyone serving in public office for that matter, it is important to remove oneself from that realm of closed thinking and at least consider other options that may even come from your opposition.

Lawyers are good at this and probably a reason many embark on political careers. In their everyday decision-making, lawyers have no choice but to analyze all sides of an issue while divesting themselves from whatever preconceived notions they may take into a case – this is much easier said than done and why pride and unbreakable ideology keep many of us from accepting or even considering options outside of their political purview. As mayors, we have no choice but to seek counsel on all matters as opposed to assuming things or jumping to conclusions. I hope to bring this methodology back with me and make it an even stronger aspect of our governance here.

The second part of the conference, we were able to hear from CEOs of many major corporations and were treated to a talk from Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky, who urged business leaders in attendance to avoid conducting business with Russia. His remarks about the hardships his country has endured during the Russian invasion were heartfelt and eye-opening and every CEO and mayor in attendance was firm in their support for Ukraine.

Many CEOs also spoke, and one of the more important lessons learned had to be about the formula for success. Harvard University’s D. Quinn Mills, professor of business administration emeritus, spoke about what he sees in successful students. His answer was not great intelligence or creativity necessarily, but persistence as the key to success.

Mills spoke of setbacks and how everyone in the world faces them, but those who achieve success always deal with setbacks as merely temporary obstacles on the way to achieving greatness. No setback in life is permanent unless we deem it so, and I believe there is a great lesson to be learned here with such a sentiment. Those who exude a certain “stick-to-itiveness” are able to meet challenges and convert setbacks into triumphs.

Zelensky appears to be someone who relishes the opportunity to turn a setback into a triumph. Here we have had the setbacks of COVID, inflation, crime and violence, and it is up to all of us to heed Mills’ advice and not give in to these problems but to regard them as temporary bumps on the road to greater things. I know the people of this community certainly fit that bill.

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40 OCALA MAGAZINE 2022

UNDER

PHOTOGRAPHY BY RALPH DEMILIO

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Whitney Griffith Age: 31

One word philosophy of life: Joy

Occupation: Nurse practitioner

My superhuman power would be: having a pause button

Business/workplace: Florida Cancer Specialists

Community cause: H.U.G.S.

When not working, I: am outside with my family!

What I like most about living in Ocala: The sense of community Pet peeve: Being unprepared

A guilty pleasure of mine: Hot Yoga Historical dinner date: My husband.

I indulge too much in: Taco Bell.

Cade Spivey

Danielle Dyals

Age: 20

Age: 27

Occupation: Salon Owner

Occupation: Graphic Designer

Business/workplace: The Boulevard Salon When not working, I: Spend time with friends and family.

What I like most about living in Ocala: Watching our city grow.

Pet peeve: Taxes One word philosophy of life: Breathe My superhuman power would be: To stop time.

Community cause: Equal opportunity for everyone.

Guilty pleasure: Olive Garden bread sticks.

Historical dinner date: My great-grandfather Carl Johnson.

Favorite part of my profession: Getting to watch my clients and stylists grow.

I indulge too much in: Being a perfectionist.

Weniquecka “Nek” Gordon

Pet peeve: Someone saying they’re fine when they actually are not.

Age: 28

One word philosophy of life: Grateful

Occupation: Entrepreneur Business/workplace: Niqche’ Brand

My superhuman power would be: to Read minds

When not working, I: spend time with family

Community cause: Helping families find the resources they need.

What I like most about living in Ocala: The country life and weather

Guilty pleasure: Eating oatmeal cookies.

Business/workplace: City of Ocala When not working, I: am cuddling my sweet pups, going to Disney with friends or rewatching Downton Abbey.

Pet peeve: When people say, “you look tired.”

One word philosophy of life: Aspire.

My superhuman power would be: Teleportation.

Community cause: His House for Her. Guilty pleasure: Movie musicals.

Historical dinner date: Queen Elizabeth I. I indulge too much in: as a dairy intolerant person, cheese.

C.J. Walker.

Favorite part of my profession: Designing my handbags I indulge too much in: social media

Historical dinner date: Madam

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | JUL 2022 |

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TJ Ready Age: 29 Occupation: Director of Operations Business/workplace: Dillon Media Group/Dillon Video and Photo When not working, I: am spending time with my family.

What I like most about living in Ocala: The natural wonders that surround it.

Pet peeve: Running late.

Durrell Tolbert Age: 32 Occupation: Party Rental/ Landscaper Business/workplace: Peezys Bounce And Slide/Baseline Lawns When not working, I: still somehow find myself working Pet peeve: A person not owning up to their mistakes.

Guilty pleasure: Craft beers.

Historical dinner date: Ramses the Great.

Favorite part of my profession: The variety of our day to day.

I indulge too much in: social media

Occupation: Associate Professor and Program Manager of Agribusiness Business/workplace: College of Central Florida When not working, I am: farming.

My superhuman power would be: Reading into the future to get the Powerball numbers

Pet peeve: Unproductive time

I indulge too much in: Buying inflatables

Community cause: The OMCHC Annual Charity Bowling Tournament.

Age: 37

What I like most about living in Ocala: The balance of city and rural living.

Favorite part of my profession: Watching the kids get happy when I pull up.

My superhuman power would be: Waterbending from Avatar.

Tavis Lamar Douglass

One word philosophy of life: Entrepreneur

Guilty pleasure: Ordering takeout when I don’t feel like cooking

One word philosophy of life: Create!

One word philosophy of life: Passion My superhuman power would be: mastery of The Force Community cause: The Florida Wildlife Corridor Guilty pleasure: Binge watching Seinfeld or The Office Historical dinner date: Nikola Tesla.

I indulge too much in: Listening to Pink Floyd

Eugina Lewis Age: 35 Occupation: Innovator, educator, & lash slayer Business/workplace: Eugina Lewis Lash Studio & Academy When not working, I: love spontaneous trips to brunch spots in cities I’ve discovered on Instagram or TikTok. Pet peeve: Honestly, I don’t know.

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One word philosophy of life: Gratitude.

Community cause: Hands Of Mercy Everywhere Guilty pleasure: Dancing and singing really loud when no one is watching.

Historical dinner date: Nipsey Hussle.

Favorite part of my profession: Creating an atmosphere for my clients to feel love and beauty!

In indulge too much in: SHEIN.com

Colby Robinson Age: 28 Occupation: Speech Therapist, Bakery Business Owner Business/workplace: Ambitious L.A.D.I.E.S. Inc.; Bake Me Away Confections by Colby; MCPS When not working, I: am baking and spending time with family.

What I like most about living in Ocala: It is very family oriented.

Pet peeve: Smacking.

One word philosophy of life: Opportunity.

My superhuman power would be: Teleportation.

Community cause: Ambitious L.A.D.I.E.S. Inc. Guilty pleasure: Snickerdoodle Cookies.

Historical dinner date: Ethel Hedgeman Lyle.

Favorite part of my profession: Knowing I am impacting a child’s life… forever!

In indulge too much in: Sweets.

West Andrews

Brett Stanley

Age: 30

Age: 33

Occupation: General Manager

Occupation: High school track coach

Business/workplace: Cart World Golf Cars When not working, I: Enjoy the outdoors and being on the water.

What I like most about living in Ocala: Family and friends.

Pet peeve: People not returning their shopping carts.

One word philosophy of life: It’s a great day to have a great day.

My superhuman power would be: The ability to fly.

Community cause: Food4Kids.

Guilty pleasure: Auburn football.

Historical dinner date: My great grandfather, Dan Andrews.

I indulge too much in: Fishing.

Corry Locke Age: 32 Occupation: Group sales supervisor Business/workplace: Ocala/ Marion County Visitors and Convention Bureau When not working, I: spend time with my family.

What I like most about living in Ocala: The small-town feeling.

Pet peeve: Distracted drivers

Business/workplace: Forest High School and Ambitious Boys Becoming Ambitious Men, Inc. When not working, I: Spend time with family and friends.

Pet peeve: Not being punctual.

My superhuman power would be: ability to heal sick people.

Guilty pleasure: Baking cookies before bed.

Historical dinner date: Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Favorite part of my profession: Equipping our youth with life skills that will help develop them into future leaders.

I indulge too much in: My cellular device.

One word philosophy of life: Attitude My superhuman power would be: to fly Community cause: Transitions Life Center.

Guilty pleasure: Youtube videos.

Historical dinner date: My grandmother who passed in 2002 when I was 12.

In indulge too much in: Seinfeld

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | JUL 2022 |

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Jamie Tardif Age: 33 Occupation: Owner and Creator of Possibilites at The Ocala Design Group Business/workplace: The Ocala Design Group When not working, you can find me: in the woods.

What I like most about living in Ocala: The small hometown feel with a strong community of growth.

Sueliay Valdes

Travis St. John

Age: 33

Age: 30

Occupation: Personal trainer

Occupation: Detail manager

Business/workplace: Fly Fit

Business/workplace: DeLuca Toyota

When not working, I: am at the farm with my family What I like most about living in Ocala: People are nice and friendly and willing to help one another.

Pet peeve: Dishonesty.

One word philosophy of life: Beautiful.

My superhuman power would be: teleportation.

Community cause: Nice Ladies.

Guilty pleasure: Netflix before bed.

Historical dinner date: Andy Warhol.

Favorite part of my profession: When clients meet their goals.

I indulge too much in: shopping.

My superhuman power would be: The ability to heal people.

Community cause: Nature Preservation.

Guilty pleasure: Coffee Historical dinner date: My mom.

I indulge too much in: Shopping.

What I like most about living in Ocala: Seeing how much this city is growing.

Pet peeve: Repeating myself.

One word philosophy of life: Smile.

My superhuman power would be: mind reading.

Guilty pleasure: Gaming.

Historical dinner date: Muhammed Ali. Favorite part of my profession: Being the first to touch new cars once they hit the lot.

I indulge too much in: working.

Age: 39 Occupation: Physical therapist and business owner Business/workplace: A-1 Physical Therapy When not working, I: love to travel and explore the world’s hidden gems.

What I like most about living in Ocala: The peace and natural beauty.

My biggest pet peeve:

| JUL 2022 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

One word philosophy of life: Adventure.

When not working, I: go to Tuscawilla Park and play basketball.

Jaya Mavani

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Pet peeve: Dishonesty.

Hypocritical people One word philosophy of life: Perseverance.

My superhuman power would be: the power of healing.

Community cause: Saint Jude’s children’s research Hospital.

Guilty pleasure: Binge watching my favorite chick flicks, sipping wine, and indulging in instant noodles.

Historical dinner date: Neil Armstrong.

II indulge too much in: Shopping.

Sullivan Hogan Age: 23

One word philosophy of life: Trust

Occupation: Director of video communications

My superhuman power would be: the ability to manipulate time.

Business/workplace: The Ocala Metro CEP

Community cause: Adoption.

When not working, I: spend time with my friends.

Guilty pleasure: Coffee.

What I like most about living in Ocala: I love the community.

Pet peeve: When people talk during important or emotional parts of movies.

Historical dinner date: Eliza Hamilton.

Favorite part of my profession: Editing videos.

I indulge too much in: social media.

Grace Clayton

Vilma Tisdal

Age: 23

Age: 30

Occupation: Magazine owner and editor

Occupation: Business Owner/CrossFit Coach

Business/workplace: The Scout Guide, Ocala

Workplace: Elemental Fit Lab

When not working, I: Ride horses!

When not working I: Am working out.

Pet peeve: pretentious people

What I like about Ocala: Small town vibe with a big heart.

My superhuman power would be: Invisibility Community cause: Providing educational opportunity for underprivileged young girls.

Guilty pleasure: Diet Coke Historical dinner date: Marjorie Merriweather Post.

Pet Peeve: When someone is disrespectful or rude.

One word philosophy on life: Service.

My superhuman power would be: Fly. Community Cause: VOCAL animal rescues.

Favorite part of my profession: I never feel like I am working!

Guilty pleaser: Murder mysteries/true crime!

I indulge too much in: Shopping and food!

Favorite part of my profession: Helping people find health and wellness through fitness.

Historical dinner date: Hedy Lamarr.

I indulge too much in: Shoes!

Kambrya McBride Age: 22 Occupation: Entrepreneur, cosmetologist, body contour specialist, bank teller Business/workplace: BodiedbyBrya, Enrich me, Beautifybrya, MidFlorida

Pet peeve: Interrupting me while I’m speaking.

One word philosophy of life: Love.

Helping others I indulge too much in: food.

My superhuman power would be: invisibility.

Community cause: The Heart Foundation!

When not working, I: Love to travel

Guilty pleasure: Dancing like no one’s watching.

What I like most about living in Ocala: It’s the place I can always come home to.

Historical dinner date: Daisy Bates.

Favorite part of my profession:

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Jazzmin Bethea Age: 30 Occupation: Body sculptor Business/workplace: Bodied By Jay LLC When not working, I: like to spend time with my family.

What I like most about living in Ocala: Family. All my family is here.

Pet peeve: My time being wasted.

Ryan Andrew Neumann Age: 34

When not working, I: Spend time with my family.

When I’m not working, I: play. Off days are unreal for artists.

What I like most about living in Ocala: The abundance of business opportunities.

My superhuman power would be: The ability to heal myself

I indulge too much in: eating sweets late at night.

One philosophy of life: Invest My superhuman power would be: To fly Community cause: Living Hope Haiti Christian mission.

Community cause: FAFO.

Guilty pleasure: Eating my kids’ fruit snacks.

Guilty pleasure: Unnecessary road trips.

Historical dinner date: My paternal grandfather.

Historical dinner date: Alexander the Great.

Favorite part of my profession: Spending time with my employees.

I indulge too much in: Information.

In indulge too much in: Chocolate

Age: 36 Occupation: Business owner; licensed esthetician and massage therapist

Pet peeve: Clutter One word philosophy of life: Evolve My superhuman power would be: time travel

Business/workplace: Brick City Spa

Community cause: The Reilly & MCA

When not working, I: spend time with family and travel as much as I can

Guilty pleasure: Jamming out to Broadway Show tunes

What I like most about living in Ocala: Its emphasis on small business

| JUL 2022 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

Historical dinner date: My grandfather.

Pet peeve: Junk mail

Rachel Wilkerson

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Guilty pleasure: sweets

Occupation: Entrepreneur

Workplace: Resident Artist at Magnolia Art Xchange

One word philosophy of life: Free.

Community cause: The American Cancer Society

Age: 32 Business/workplace: Connor Tractor

Pet peeve: Willful ignorance.

My superhuman power would be: To be able to cure all sickness

Jeremy Connor

Occupation: Artist

What I like most about living in Ocala: Exploring the nature coast from the Rainbow River in Dunnellon to the Ocala National Forest.

One word philosophy of life: Focused

Historical dinner date: Cleopatra.

I indulge too much in: late night cereal

Sky Wheeler Age: 37 Occupation: Tourism development manager Business/workplace: Ocala/ Marion County Visitors and Convention Bureau When not working, I: enjoy spending time with my family.

What I like most about living in Ocala: The people Pet peeve: Being late

One word philosophy of life: Fulfillment My superhuman power would be: teleportation.

Community cause: United Way. Guilty pleasure: Coca-Cola from a soda fountain Historical dinner date: My Dad. Favorite part of my profession: Promoting the community that made me who I am I indulge too much in: Amazon Prime.

Julianna Harlow

Sara Lambert

Age: 21

Age: 30

Occupation: Graphic Designer

Occupation: Community engagement coordinator

Business/workplace: HD Print & Marketing When not working, I love: exploring Florida.

What I like most about living in Ocala: The small-town feel.

My biggest pet peeve: Being obstinate.

One word philosophy of life: Empathy

Business/workplace: Marion County Parks & Recreation When not working, I: am having a beer with my husband.

What I like most about living in Ocala: The big sprawling oak trees with their Spanish.

Pet peeve: Bad manners.

My superhuman power would be: Telepathy.

One word philosophy of life: Advocate.

Community cause: The Discovery Center.

My superhuman power would be: Time travel!

Guilty pleasure: Sonic Chili Cheese Dogs

Community cause: The Junior League of Ocala.

Historical dinner date: Milicent Patrick.

Favorite part of my profession: The creativity.

I indulge too much in: TikTok.

Kevin Lopez Age: 29

My superhuman power would be: Telepathy to talk with my dog Chewie!

Occupation: Software Development Manager

Community cause: Kiwanis Club of Ocala!

Business/workplace: Aetna

Guilty pleasure: Collecting and building Star Wars LEGO sets.

When not working, I: am spending quality time with my family.

Historical dinner date: JFK. Favorite part of my profession: Public speaking I indulge too much in: Cheese.

Historical dinner date: George Lucas.

What I like most about living in Ocala: The people!

Favorite part of my profession: Helping people.

Pet peeve: Slow internet.

I indulge too much in: expanding my BBQ skills.

One word philosophy of life: Commitment

Guilty pleasure: Any show where Andy Cohen is required to host a reunion.

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Oriasaunta McAllister Age:38 Occupation: Nurse esthetician, permanent makeup artist Business: Glam By Oria Beauty Bar, LLC When I’m not working, I: enjoy staying in my pajamas and binge-watching Netflix!

What I like most about living in Ocala: I’m surrounded by family and friends.

Peter Ferrer

Parker Morley

Age: 35

Age: 30

Occupation: U.S. Army Recruiter

Occupation: Mobile Mechanic/Pre-purchase Inspections

Business/workplace: U.S. Army Recruiting Station Ocala When not working, I: Spend quality time with my wife and kids.

What I like most about living in Ocala: The support for our veterans.

Pet peeve: Unorganized people.

One word philosophy of life: Loyalty My superhuman power would be: the power to heal.

Community cause: Child education.

Guilty Pleasure: Spending a lot of money on bike parts.

Historical dinner date: Stanley Martin.

I indulge too much in: spending too much time working.

My superhuman power would be: Visit my loved ones in heaven.

Community cause: Anything that helps uplift and empower someone else.

Guilty pleasure: Krispy Kreme doughnuts.

Historical dinner date: My grandmother Ginnett Jones I indulge too much in: work!

When not working, I: spend time with my wife and step kids.

What I like most about living in Ocala: Being centrally located.

Pet peeve: Talking with your mouth full.

One word philosophy of life: Patience.

My superhuman power would be: To have all superpowers.

Community cause: Early Learning Coalition Guilty pleasure: Going to the gun range.

Historical dinner date: Nikola Tesla.

Favorite part of my profession: Helping people.

I indulge too much in: work.

Age: 37 Occupation: Customer Service Representative Business/workplace: Bradshaw State Farm Insurance When not working, I: love to work out.

What I like most about living in Ocala: Central location and sunny weather Pet peeve: Disorganization

| JUL 2022 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

One word philosophy of life: God.

Business/workplace: Automotive Inspector

Lindsey Stone

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Pet peeve: Procrastination.

One word philosophy of life: Resilience My superhuman power would be: Teleportation Community cause: Kimberly’s Center Guilty pleasure: Being a foodie Historical dinner date: Leonardo da Vinci.

I indulge too much in: Sweets

Mike Farr Age: 28 Occupation: Recreation supervisor, bartender Business/workplace: Marion County Parks & Recreation and C&D’s Coliseum When not working, I: fill my days spending quality time with my two sons, ages 9 and 5.

One word philosophy of life: Perseverance.

My superhuman power would be: To have the capability to fly.

Community cause: Boys & Girls Clubs.

Guilty pleasure: TikTok.

What I like most about living in Ocala: The opportunities.

Historical dinner date: My Stepfather Charles William Schindel.

Pet peeve: Self-centered people.

I indulge too much in: Planning the future.

Nic Gilbert

Lisa Bucher

Age: 31

Age: 37

Occupation: General Manager

Occupation: Dance studio owner

Business/workplace: Gilbert Exposition Management Services / Tradeshow / Event Production When not working, I: Love to send time with my family, golfing, softball, anything sports related.

What I like most about living in Ocala: Small town vibe.

Pet peeve: Texting while driving.

One philosophy of life: Faith.

My superhuman power would be: Time travel.

Community cause: Central Church of Christ.

Guilty pleasure: Doritos & Mountain Dew. Historical dinner date: Tom Brady.

I indulge too much in: Purchasing sporting equipment (clubs, bats etc…).

Martha Jane Dorvit, MD Age: 35 Occupation: Internal Medicine Physician Business/workplace: Sabal Direct Primary Care When not working, I: Spend time with my family, my Australian Labradoodle, and our Gypsy Vanner horses.

What I like most about living in Ocala: I’m near my family.

Business/workplace: Footprints in Motion When not working, I: like to spend time with my family.

Pet peeve: When someone smacks their food or chewing gum while in class.

One word philosophy of life: YOLO My superhuman power would be: Invisibility Community cause: Feeding the homeless and teaching my kids to give back.

Guilty pleasure: Any type of fantasy TV series.

Historical dinner date: Elvis Presley.

Favorite part of my profession: I can share my passion with others.

I indulge too much in: work.

homemaking and gardening videos.

Pet peeve: People putting their blinker on a few seconds before turning.

One word philosophy of life: Kindness.

My superhuman power would be: To take away suffering.

Guilty pleasure: Sleeping in on weekends.

Historical dinner date: Jesus.

I indulge too much in: watching

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Maria Mendez Zubieta Age: 37

One word philosophy of life: Resilience.

Occupation: Owner, cleaning service; beauty consultant

My superhuman power would be: The power to heal the sick.

Business/workplace: Incredible Touch Cleaning Service; Travel Nanny by Incredible Touch.

Community cause: Cleaning for a reason.

When not working, I: Spend time with my kids on our family farm.

What I like most about living in Ocala: It is a diverse, metropolitan community.

Robert Bisbee

Brittany Bisbee

Age: 37

Age: 34

Occupation: Owner, IT/ managed service provider store

Occupation: Certified Public Accountant

Business/workplace: BizTech

Business/workplace: Southern CPA

When not working, I: love to travel.

What I like most about living in Ocala: Everyone comes together in times of need.

What I like most about living in Ocala: The people.

One philosophy of life: Honor

Pet Peeve: People being late.

My superhuman power would be: time travel

One word philosophy of life: Give.

Guilty pleasure: Binging on books or a TV series.

Historical dinner date: Nikola Tesla.

Favorite part of my profession: Getting to help people.

I indulge too much in: My wife, but she deserves it.

I indulge too much in: Philanthropy.

Community cause: Interfaith.

Guilty pleasure: Watching trash reality TV shows.

Historical dinner date: Condoleezza Rice.

I indulge too much in: Eating dill pickles.

Age: 33 Occupation: Real estate agent, photographer, entrepreneur Business/workplace: Residential Movement Real Estate Group; Aone Media-Images LLc When not working, I: enjoy meditation

| JUL 2022 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

Historical dinner date: Florence Nightingale.

My superhuman power would be: The ability to control time.

Mario Pinder

26

Guilty pleasure: Binge watching “Friends”

When not working, I . . . love to be at the beach or out in nature.

Pet peeve: Being lied to.

Community cause: Helping the homeless getting identification and services

Pet peeve: Having to micromanage people.

My superhuman power would be. . . Heal illnesses Community cause: STOPBULLYING.org Guilty pleasure: The Resident and Ozarks on Netflix Historical dinner date: My grandmother.

Pet peeve: People not following through on their promises.

Favorite part of my profession: I meet new people, travel and still make it to my kids’ football and volleyball games.

One word philosophy of life: Growth

I indulge too much in: Overthinking.

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Summery

Sweet A new season, a new sweet shop downtown, and this summer's fashionably fun inspiration.

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| JUL 2022 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

lio Photography: Ralph Demil Mutuku sha Models: Casana Fink and Ne Styilng: Robin Fannon s Hair + Makeup: CP Frederick w.the unverified.com Fashion: The Unverified – ww elry Co. – Jewelry: Heart + Stone Jew llection available at Shannon Roth Co ’s a Joe Candy Shop Shot on location at: Grandp

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | JUL 2022 |

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MEET OUR MODELS: The two exceptional young women who are featured have serious credentials that far surpass their outward beauty. Ocala Magazine is proud to team up with these inspirational and exceptional beauties.

Nesha Mutuku (left) is the founder and CEO of a financial technology company, Swally. A budgeting app she designed when she was 18 helps students practically learn financial literacy. Her passion for increasing financial awareness began when she lived in the Middle East. Working with her family’s non-profit to rescue refugees and trafficked women opened her eyes to the importance of financial literacy. Upon returning to the United States, she obtained three associates degrees in Quantitative Reasoning, Social Science and Psychology. Soon after, she received her bachelor’s in business from Stetson University and has continued to work fractionally as the director of Net Impact’s Black Professional Chapter and as an aide to Family Offices, championing DEI initiatives and impact investing.

Casana Fink (right), 23, is currently representing Gainesville in the Miss Florida Pageant and is a telecommunications graduate from the University of Florida. She has worked heavily alongside the transplant community since her father received a liver transplant in 2014. At the age of 15, she created her own non-profit, Give to Live Donate Life, which propelled her to travel the state, educating and promoting organ and tissue donation. After graduating from the University of Florida, she attended fashion school in London. Shortly after that, she worked in the fashion industry in New York City. When COVID-19 hit, she decided to move back to her home state where she created her own e-commerce brand, The Unverified, that both women are wearing in this feature.

She continues to prioritize philanthropy and entrepreneurship and how they can be utilized together to make an impact.

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| JUL 2022 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

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SETTING A NEW STANDARD OF CARE FOR CANCER TREATMENT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

See the technology in action:

FLCancer.com

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City art competition promotes young artists and community art scene

BY BRAD ROGERS

S

ince 2016, the City of Ocala, in partnership with the Magnolia Art Xchange (MAX), has been sponsoring the Student and Emerging Artists Competition to promote up-and-coming artists in the region. Over the past seven years, the annual contest has grown steadily, with it attracting 54 entries this year.

Once the winning artists are selected, their works are shared with the community. The winning artworks are put on display and offered for sale in city-owned buildings, including City Hall, the Recreation and

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Parks Administration Building, the Eighth Avenue Adult Activity Center, the Barbara Gaskin Washington Adult Activity Center, the Ocala International Airport terminal, the City Clerk’s Office, and coming soon, the new Mary Sue Rich Community Center. Currently there are more than 100 works of art from the Student and Emerging Artists Competition exhibited throughout the city.

Winners are judged by an out-of-town art expert and, upon winning, receive membership or affiliate status with the Appleton Museum of Art, MAX and the Marion Cul-

tural Alliance. The College of Central Florida also offers a partial scholarship to those artists wanting to go to school.

In short, said Leslie Nottingham, Cultural Arts and Science Division head for the city, “It gives these artists exposure and easier access to art opportunities.”

This month, Ocala Magazine profiles the last three Student and Emerging Artist Best of Show winners and their works.

They are Emily Lane Ferguson (2020), Jaeda Samuel-McKnight (2021) and Alex Estrada (2022).

Emily Lane Ferguson:

Light, camera, winner

I

t’s all in the details.

That is what Emily Lane Ferguson says got her interested in photography, something that started as a childhood hobby but ultimately became an award-winning passion.

Ferguson, a 21-year-old Vanguard High School and College of Central Florida graduate, won Best of Show in the City of Ocala’s 2020 Student and Emerging Artist Competition with her photograph “Brianna.”

The photograph, taken of Ferguson’s friend Brianna, shows a ballerina wearing red and holding her dance shoes against a black background.

Ferguson started taking pictures when she was 12, photographing “things around the house using the family camera.” Initially, she was taken with nature, things like flowers and birds in the yard.

“It was the ability to see things of beauty in those things that were basically part of everyday life,” Ferguson said.

But as time passed and her interest in photography grew – she has taken just one photography class – Ferguson became more interested in shooting people and experimenting with different lighting while doing so.

Now using a Canon T7I camera, she said she now “enjoys more portraits of people than nature.”

“One of my favorite things about my most recent photographs is a void background,” she said. “By getting into shooting people, it allowed me to get more into lighting.” She shot the winning “Brianna” photograph in the black box theater at CF. “I’ve always had an interest in how light affects things,” she added.

Ferguson said that being an artist, for her, means creating quality work that is both self-satisfying and beautiful in the eyes of others.

“I think it’s important that the things I really care about, that I do them well,” she said. “There is a level where when I look at it, it just has to be right. I really love to see the details in things.”

When she won the 2020 Emerging Artist competition, it was Ferguson’s second competition she had ever entered. And her only formal training was one art class at CF. So, Ferguson isn’t sure being dubbed an Emerging Artist, however, will mean a career in art.

“At this point I’m working on personal growth,” she said, adding that she currently works at National Auto Parts. “I don’t think I realized I was emerging when I emerged.”

At this point, her art is more about personal satisfaction than launching a career.

“With artists, there are the ones who want to pursue it as a major part of their life and there are those who see it as a way to get away from the stressful parts of the world,” Ferguson said. “If it was work, I don’t know if it would be the same.”

Ferguson said she intends to continue her photography.

And will she be entering more art competitions?

“I might have to,” she said wryly.

‘I don’t think I realized I was emerging when I emerged.’

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | JUL 2022 |

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Jaeda

Samuel-McKnight: Painting those she knows ‘I started painting when I was little. I’ve always enjoyed painting; it’s something I’m good at.’

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S

ince she was a little girl, Jaeda Samuel-McKnight has loved to paint. Her father is a talented artist, and she was inspired by him to pick up a paint brush.

“I started painting when I was little,” the 19-year-old 2021 Vanguard High graduate said. “I’ve always enjoyed painting; it’s something I’m good at.”

Good, indeed. Samuel-McKnight’s work was so good that she won Best of Show in the City of Ocala’s 2021 Student and Emerging Artist Competition. She won with her watercolor painting call “Muse: Ebu,” a portrait of a friend.

Despite having the talent to win the annual competition, Samuel-McKnight said it would not have happened if not for her high school art teacher prodding her to enter “Muse: Ebu.” “I just submitted the piece because my teacher told me to,” she said. “Then I pretty much forgot about it until they notified me that I had won something.”

Now a student at Emory University in Atlanta, where she is studying applied mathematics, Samuel-McKnight said she is uncertain what her art future holds. At one point, she considered majoring in art – she now says her goal is become a trauma surgeon.

“It was fun, but I figured I just wanted to keep art as a hobby.”

There is no doubt, however, that art is a major influence in Samuel-McKnight’s life and focuses significantly on those closest to her.

“My art was just focusing on people in my life,” she said. “I drew my friends a lot.”

The isolation of the pandemic in 2020 accelerated her use of her friends as subjects. “I was having a burst of inspiration a couple summers ago at the beginning of the quarantine. My first instinct was to draw someone I was close to.”

Which brings us to her award-winning piece, “Muse: Ebu.” Samuel-McKnight said she chose to draw her friend Ebu because of the young woman’s beauty.

“I don’t think black women get the recognition they deserve for their beauty,” she said.

Her painting of Ebu only took one day to complete, she said, adding, “I considered it one of my best pieces.”

Samuel-McKnight, the oldest of nine siblings, said while she is pursuing a different full-time career path, she plans to continue painting. She particularly enjoys watercolors. Winning the Emerging Artist competition has added to her confidence as an artist and one of her big art ambitions is to paint a mural-size piece. She also hopes to sell her works.

In the meantime, the pre-med student continues to relish the bestof-show win in the 2021 Student and Emerging Artist Competition.

“It was an important win for me,” she said.

Alex Estrada: The intricacies of everyday things

S

ometimes it’s the little things in life that can be the most inspiring.

That is what artist Alex Estrada discovered while being stuck at home became part of our routine during the pandemic. It was the little things in his life that became the inspiration for his painting that won Estrada the best of show award in the City of Ocala’s 2022 Student and Emerging Artist Competition.

The painting, called “Intertwine,” is a colorful close-up of a pair of Estrada’s sneakers. Being in lockdown during the pandemic, Estrada said, forced him to look for inspiration in his own living space.

“I was getting a lot of inspiration from the things around my apartment at the time,” the Altamonte Springs resident said. “I was looking at all these objects closely, looking how forms would overlap and intertwine, hence the title. I was noticing the intricacies of something so small.”

The Ocala competition was Estrada’s first win. “It came as a surprise,” he said.

A Central Florida native, the 25-year-old Estrada is a graduate of the University of Central Florida with a degree in fine arts/studio arts. He said his ambition is to be a working artist and go back to school and earn a graduate degree. He currently is a full-time artist and works with some local galleries and museums, including the Orlando Museum of Art. Estrada had praise for the Ocala competition, especially the diversity of backgrounds and experience among its entrants.

“It was really nice seeing all the artwork at the different levels,” he said. “I was really impressed with the artwork out of the high schools.”

That is where Estrada first tried his hand at art. During his last year of high school, he was in dual enrollment, meaning he could also take college classes while in high school. So, he took a drawing course at the local community college. It made him think about becoming an animator.

He went on the UCF and expanded his interest in art and decided he wanted to be an artist.

“I’ve really fallen in love with drawing and painting,” Estrada said. “There’s something about creating a new image in a few hours or a few days that is by you. It’s just a process that is very gratifying.”

He said he wants to go back to school not just to get a graduate degree, but to expand his views and understanding of art and “gain new insights into how my artwork fits into the art world.”

His favorites artists are photorealist Audrey Flack, Orlando-based Amer Kobaslija and installation artist Pepon Osorio, and he “loves anyone who uses a lot of objects in their art.”

His immediate art goal is to work on larger, still-life pieces.

There’s something about creating a new image in a few hours or a few days that is by you. It’s just a process that is very gratifying.’

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | JUL 2022 |

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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

Please call 352.629.6229 to schedule a tour of our gorgeous facility | GoldenOcala.com G O L F | T E N N I S | E Q U E ST R I A N | F I T N E S S | P O O L | S PA | D I N I N G | E V E N T S

NUPTIALS

Stan and Jessica McClain Date of wedding: May 21st, 2021

Floral: Publix white and light pink roses

Bride Hometown: Ocala, FL

Venue: Florida Capitol, Tallahassee

Groom Hometown: Ocala, FL Parents of Bride: David and Sally Throckmorton

How we met: He was a state representative and she was a lobbyist. They became friends after they both experienced the loss of a spouse. Their friendship blossomed into a beautiful love for each other.

Photography: Steven Saccio Photography

Engaged: September, 2020

Design: Simple and elegant

Honeymoon: One of our favorite Old Florida spots- St. George Island

Parents of Groom: Russell and Diane Doster

Ring: Matching bands

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Special touches: They shared the day at the Capitol with just their parents. Jessica’s dad officiated the ceremony. They were able to take pictures everywhere around the Capitol including the 22nd floor, the House Chamber, the Old Capitol, and the Senate garden.

After the ceremony they had a delightful lunch at the Governor’s Club.

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | JUL 2022 |

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NUPTIALS

Erica Olstein and Joe Borge Date of wedding: April 24, 2022, in Savannah, Georgia Hometown of Erica & Joe: Ocala, Florida

Wedding Rings: Gause & Son Jewelers

Parents of Bride: Dana and Philip Olstein

Wedding Photography: DreamWeaver Photos, Dr. Preeti Sheth

Parent of Groom: Peggy Dahl

Bridal Bouquet: Kati Esser Designs

Wedding Venue: Congregation Mickve Israel, the 3rd oldest Jewish temple in America

How They Met: Frank Deluca YMCA gym

Reception Venue: CF Vintage Farm in Ocala, Florida

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Comedian Rabbi: Rabbi Robert Haas

| JUL 2022 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

Engaged: November 2020 in Ocala’s Historic Downtown Square Honeymoon Happenings: Stargazing in the

clear night of Black Canyon City at Sunset Point. Climbing breathtaking mountains and riding UTV’s through the deserts of Scottsdale, Arizona. Touring the mysterious vortexes of Sedona, Arizona.

Wedding Special Touches: 18 white doves released into the air, horse carriage ride around the historic downtown Savannah squares, harp and violin duet, comedian rabbi, marshmallows thrown at bride & groom after ceremony

Reception Special Touches: Surprise appearance of “Free Daps” improv and freestyle rappers from Disney, two caricature artists, comedian rabbi’s comedy performance, customized Whoopie Pies and cookies instead of a traditional wedding cake, “Brazilian Cigar” egg roll d’oeuvres served in cigar boxes, choreographed first dance.

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | JUL 2022 |

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Unspoiled. Unmatched. Unforgettable.

Weddings at the Plantation on Crystal River

From exquisite and extravagant to casual and relaxed, let the Plantation on Crystal River make your wedding memories unforgettable. The Plantation on Crystal River provides the Perfect Setting for your Perfect Day. Pamper yourself and your guests before and after your special day. Enjoy tastefully appointed sleeping accommodations, championship golf, water activities, and our fullservice AVEDA spa. Let our event specialists at the Plantation on Crystal River create the wedding of a lifetime!

For more information, contact: Wedding Sales Department Kristine Davis Direct: 352-651-5722 kdavis@plantationoncrystalriver.com www.plantationoncrystalriver.com

SPONSORED

HAWTHORNE ESTATES:

A Friendly Place at a Great Price W

hen Joureene Pannier earlier this year decided to move out of her On Top of the World home of 12 years and into an independent living facility in Ocala, she was particularly interested in finding two things: companionship and comfortable accommodations.

The energetic 92-year-old former nun and schoolteacher said she found both at Hawthorne Estates, an independent living facility in southwest Ocala.

“I just felt it was time to get a little companionship, which I have found here,” Pannier said. “They’re wonderful people.”

As for the accommodations, Pannier collects antiques and wanted a living space large enough to hold them all. So, after touring four independent-living facilities in Ocala – twice each – she selected Hawthorne Estates. Why? “First of all, it doesn’t look like a hospital room,” she said of her one-bedroom apartment. “I like it very much. The rooms are comfortable, and they are a good size.

The size of the rooms was a big part of my decision. It was the most space for the least money.”

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

Pannier, who recently wrote a book, “Another Nun’s Story”, under the pseudonym of Beth Warren, about her 30 years in the convent was recently feted by the Hawthorne Estates staff with a book signing event.

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| JUL 2022 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

Joureene Pannier “They can’t do enough for you,” she said of the Hawthorne Estates staff. “Anything you ask them, they will do. They do a really good job.”

For residents of Hawthorne Estates, its all-inclusive living is a major selling point. Included in their monthly rent are all meals – buffet-style lunches and dinners in a spacious dining room, and light breakfast offerings and beverages in the facility’s bistro from the lobby.

All utilities — except for personal phones — are also part of the package.

That means electric, water and sewer, cable TV, wireless internet, trash removal and weekly housekeeping service is provided in each of the 93 units.

Hawthorne residents are welcome to

have their own vehicle, with free parking on the property, and staff provides weekly trips to the grocery store.

Doris Scandalis has been living at Hawthorne Estates for nine years and says the friendly atmosphere has made living there a joy.

“I do like it,” she said. “It’s very friendly.”

The 91-year-old retired schoolteacher, who hails from suburban New York City and has lived in Ocala since 1991, said her favorite parts about living at Hawthorne Estates are that the people are so friendly and there is so much for residents to do. Scandalis loves doing puzzles and Hawthorne Estates has a puzzle group.

Scandalis also enjoys bingo and cards as

Patti Jackson well as the various social events that are held for residents.

“It’s so friendly,” she said. “It’s clean.

Of all the places we looked, this was the nicest. You’re never going to get everything that’s perfect. But it’s very nice. I love it.”

Scandalis’ room is a one-bedroom with a balcony. She especially loves the mornings on the balcony.

“Every morning I open my door to my balcony and the birds are singing,” she said. “It’s just so nice.”

Residents have a number of options when it comes to what kind of apartment they want. They can choose between studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom units.

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

Patti Jackson is new to Hawthorne Estates, but she says the staff and residents have both made her feel welcome and at home.

“The people are very nice. The residents are very nice. The staff is excellent,” said the lifelong Atlanta resident.

Jackson, who is 68, said with the all-in-

clusive package providing everything from utilities to food to housekeeping, Hawthorne Estates is a good deal economically.

“I think the cost is unbelievably good,” she said. “With the size of the room, the cost of the place is really good.

You come here and pretty much everything is covered.”

Like Pannier and Scandalis, Jackson raves about the numerous activities available to residents. There is always something happening, from card games and bingo to art classes and the weekly Friday night Happy Hour, with its snacks, drinks and live music.

Also, like Pannier and Scandalis, Jackson said she feels safe at Hawthorne Estates because the staff is so attentive.

“It’s a wonderful, secure place where if you fall or something, there’s someone to help you,” she said.

For example, if a resident does not show up for a meal, the Hawthorne Estates staff will go to their room and check on their well-being.

Again, residents are provided weekly apartment cleaning as well as weekly linen service. Laundry facilities are located in convenient areas throughout the facility, although personal laundry service is also

Doris Scandalis available for an extra fee.

Hawthorne Estates is a smoke-free facility, too.

Hawthorne Estates is also conveniently located near the Paddock Mall and State Road 200 commercial areas.

Anyone interested in checking Hawthorne Estates out is invited to attend any of the Friday night Happy Hours.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT Hawthorne of Ocala 3211 SW 42nd St., Ocala hawthornevillageofocala.com (352) 237-7776, ext. 255

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | JUL 2022 |

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eat

Don’t forget the veggies when grilling out for the summer holidays and family fun times The Jennifer Anniston Salad That Wasn’t p52 | Dining Out p53

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | JUL 2022 |

51

The Jennifer Aniston salad that wasn’t

I

BY ROBIN FANNON

s it possible for a salad to break the internet? OK, maybe shutting down the worldwide web is a bit of a stretch, but this delectable combination of flavors is definitely having its viral 15 minutes. Whether you are a fan of the actress or not, you cannot dispute the fact that the woman is in incredible shape and clearly takes really good care of herself. Granted, her career and livelihood are partially based on her appearance, so naturally she invests in her health and wellness.

The salad is named after her because in an interview done with former “Friends’ co-star Courtney Cox, Cox stated that she, Jennifer Aniston and Lisa Kudrow ate lunch together every day for 10 years while on set filming the television show, and this was their go-to meal. That story, however, was thrown into doubt when Anniston later said in multiple interviews, including with People magazine, that she did not eat that salad on the “Friends” set over the years.

Whatever.

However it came to be popular, it is truly delicious and super healthy. The mint and parsley give it a nice punch of freshness; the garbanzo beans and feta add some protein, and the nuts provide healthy fats while the cucumber gives a good crunch.

You can adapt the ingredients to suit your tastes. If you don’t love garbanzo beans, switch them out for your favorite. The same goes for the nuts, herbs and cheese.

Keep the dressing light and simple. I love to drizzle some good extra-virgin olive oil, splash a bit of apple cider vinegar, sprinkle some Himalayan pink salt and freshly cracked pepper and finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon or lime.

The ‘Jennifer Aniston’ Salad INGREDIENTS

» » » » » » » »

1 Cup cooked Quinoa or Bulgur Wheat (see package directions) 1 Cup Chopped Cucumber ½ Cup Chopped Parsley ½ Cup Chopped Mint 1/3 Cup Chopped Red Onion 1 15 oz. Can Garbanzo Beans, Drained and Rinsed ½ Cup Roasted and Salted Pistachio Nuts ½ Cup Crumbled Feta Cheese

INSTRUCTIONS

• Toss all the ingredients together in a large bowl and drizzle with your favorite, light dressing.

• This recipe serves 4 people.

Instagram @RSVP_ROBIN

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EAT

dining out

Ocala is going out!

Advertise with us to connect with our hungry readers.

Call 352.622.2995 and reserve your space.

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

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

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

West 82° Bar and Grill From wild, locally caught seafood to regionally grown produce and beef sourced within Florida, West 82⁰ Bar & Grill brings delectable farm-to-table plates while guests overlook the beautiful Kings Bay and Crystal River. Bring your own catch of the day, and the restaurant will prepare it for you flawlessly.

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

Join us for Sunday Brunch featuring hot and cold stations, a carving station, an omelet station, and an assorted dessert display.

Call for reservations and weekly specials.

Breakfast, Daily: 6:00am-10:30am | Sunday Brunch: 11:30am - 2:00pm Lunch, Daily: 11:00am - 2:30pm | Dinner, Daily: 5:00pm - 9:00pm For reservations, call 1.800.632.6262 9301 West Fort Island Trail, Crystal River, FL 34429 | (352) 795-4211 www.plantationoncrystalriver.com OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | JUL 2022 |

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MRMC Wound Center

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2131 SW 20TH PLACE OCALA, FL 34471

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352-368-1370

OFMC Dermatology & Aesthetic Center

Family Practice & Diagnostic Center CENTENNIAL PARK

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*Ocala Family Medical Center, Inc. complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex.*

play

“No rain, no flowers” by Christina McGowan Birchwood Custom wood pieces available at teaklane.com Society p56 | Anthology—Poetry in Motion p60

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | JUL 2022 |

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EVENTS

society

Ocala VW Riders Annual Car Event

BY PENNY MILLER PHOTOS BY NC SIZEMORE

T

he Ocala VW Riders Annual Car Event, mixed in with several Kiwanis Club of Ocala members, sponsored an all VW Car show on Sunday, June 5. Over 100 VW owners came out to display their special and gorgeous VW cars, and enjoy the day with the many attendees and volunteers. Some came from Amelia Island and other locations across Florida. They also had food trucks, a DJ, a flea market and vendors. Trophies were awarded. Old School Ice Cream Shop on South Baseline Road, hosted the event.

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| JUL 2022 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

COMMUNITY MUSIC CONSERVATORY A GIFT OF THE DAVID AND LISA MIDGETT FOUNDATION

MUSIC Classes

GROUP CLASSES | PRIVATE LESSONS

All ages and skill levels Classes all year long Fun and affordable Scholarships available Accessible programming 352.351.1606 | Reilly Arts Center | 500 NE 9th Street Ocala, FL 34470

CONCERTS, CLASSIC FILMS, SPECIAL EVENTS, AND MORE! Join us downtown Thurs-Sun!

Films from just $5 Live concerts and events Sponsorship Opportunities Rent the Marion Theatre Full bar and concession GRANT SUPPORT:

Summer Kids Films Series

Media Support provided by:

NOW SHOWING Sponsored by Mainstreet Community Bank, Ocala Electric Utility and Pediatric Associates of Ocala

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

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

EVENTS

society

Hawthorne Estates Antique Car Event

BY PENNY MILLER PHOTOS BY HAWTHORNE STAFF

H

awthorne Estates of Ocala was thrilled to host a beautiful classic car show for the residents on Memorial Day 2022. It was a gorgeous day for a gathering in which to honor and remember those soldiers and military that gave the ultimate sacrifice for our great nation and for the freedoms we enjoy. The combination of antique cars, barbecued foods, cold refreshments, and great company made for wonderful memories on this Memorial Day celebration. Hawthorne Estates will continue this as an annual event.

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The FUN Begins When TheSUN FUNComes BeginsOut! When the the SUN Comes Out!

JUNIOR CAMP JUNIOR CAMP

DANCE CAMP DANCE CAMP

STEM CAMP STEM CAMP

HIGH ADVENTURE CAMP HIGH ADVENTURE CAMP NEW!

NEW!

ART CAMP ART CAMP

NEW! NEW!

CODING CAMP CODING CAMP

Registration is Open Registration is Open for Summer 2022! for Summer 2022!

Summer Camps Summer Camps

Visit www.thecornerstoneschool.org Visit www.thecornerstoneschool.org to register or for more information. to register or for more information.

2313 SE Lake Weir Avenue, Ocala, FL 34471 | www.thecornerstoneschool.org | (352) 351-8840 2313 SE Lake Weir Avenue, Ocala, FL 34471 | www.thecornerstoneschool.org | (352) 351-8840

PLAY

anthology — poetry in motion

Building Character

BY JERRY GLASSMAN

Somethings are hard to do until you do them then it seems easy learning by experiencing that’s the way to go I know you can see the best in you it’s time to change the rest of you Strengthen the resolve to improve your character you’ll get a reward for your efforts it's called “Self Satisfaction” ... and you realize you are a better person.

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Ocala’s Chocolate & Confections • 104 E. Fort King St., Ocala, Florida 34471 • (352) 789-6882

OCALA’S #1 STOP FOR ALL THINGS CHOCOLATE!

You can have your delight for a one stop shop for your gourmet, exotic, and everyday chocolate needs. If we don’t have your desires on the shelf, simply make an order in advance and we can customize it specifically for you. We are a neighborhood store in a neighborly community, see you at Ocala’s Chocolate & Confections!

We also offer many chocolate fruits, other chocolate products, and ice creams at our shop!

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61

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 p64

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | JUL 2022 |

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EQUINE

everything equine

Healed by Horses With a Heart of Gold

› BY LOUISA BARTON

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own farm in Citra. The bonding between horse and rider and the relationships with instructors and volunteers has now been proven to be beneficial to many with a variety of challenges. For the physically handicapped rider, horseback riding gently and rhythmically moves horses’ bodies, naturally mimicking human gait. Studies have shown that therapeutic riding provides many benefits.

In 2001-03 Kathy won grand champion at the UPHA Exceptional Challenge Cup Finals in Kansas City – truly an accomplishment. She now encourages other riders to compete, and her method of encouragement is to remind them that if she can do this, so can they. Kathy is the best spokesperson for therapeutic riding, and there is never

a stranger as far as Kathy is concerned. She loves everyone.

In 1999, Kathy was chosen to represent Florida at the World Special Olympics, which was held in Raleigh, North Carolina.

Kathy came home with two bronze medals.

Kathy’s parents and all the staff at the therapeutic riding center were so proud. Kathy may have brought home the bronze, but she truly has a heart of gold and a heart for others in similar situations as her.

This year, Kathy was part of Team Florida for the USA Special Olympics that were held in Orlando last month. This is the first time ever that an equestrian division was added for the USA Games and the first time in Florida. There were a total of 24 riders from

Photos courtesy of Louisa Barton

K

athy Gray spent 30 days in a coma in the ICU at UF Health Shands Hospital in Gainesville at only 3 years of age. Unfortunately, an accident occurred in the barn and Kathy was kicked in the head by a horse in 1980. At that time, her mother, Betty Gray, was told she had less than a 50 percent chance of survival.

Betty was also told that if her daughter did survive, she would be in a wheelchair for the rest of her life and would always be mentally disabled. Kathy’s life had to start all over again, as if she were a newborn again. She could not speak, hold her head up, crawl or even sit up. Once released to return home, it was a long road of healing, but Kathy began slowly to improve and regain some strength.

Before Kathy could even sit up again on her own, her mother Betty had her sitting on a horse holding her on in front of her. Each time, Kathy became stronger and her will to heal grew.

It was only seven months after the accident occurred when Kathy walked across the room between Betty and her husband, Kathy’s father. It was Christmastime, and it was the perfect gift.

Kathy’s accident left her as a left hemiplegic with some cognitive issues, but with a brace on her left leg and special reins to help her left hand, Kathy has overcome so much, becoming a great horse woman. Kathy only walks and trots, as her balance is not good enough for her to canter, but she rides both English and Western and competes in both divisions.

In 1983, Betty Gray assisted with the start-up of the first therapeutic riding program in Ocala, the Marion Therapeutic Riding Association (MTRA). The MTRA moved to the Hillcrest School for the Exceptional Children in 1989. This encouraged Kathy to ride more, and the more she rode, the stronger she became and as she did she started showing horses in some lead line classes. She was only 4 at the time, and she has competed ever since.

In 2007, Betty Gray started Stirrups ‘n Strides Therapeutic Riding Center on her

throughout Florida. Twelve rode Western and 12 rode English. Their team brought home 18 gold medals, 15 silver medals and 12 bronze Medals. Kathy contributed to that count by bringing home two gold medals in both English Equitation and in the Trail Competition and a bronze medal in the Dressage.

Kathy became known as the “miracle child” in the ICU at Shands, and Betty Gray still says, “She is certainly my miracle and has changed my life forever.” Kathy has a heart of gold and can bring home the gold for sure.

An unfortunate, life-threatening accident brought to fruition an incredible therapeutic riding program that was life-changing for Kathy and has now helped hundreds of people with disabilities to have a better, healthier and more fulfilling life, proving yet again that horses not only help physical healing but mental and emotional health also.

Stirrups ‘n Strides Therapeutic Riding Center is a 501c3 nonprofit organization that assists children and adults with physical, mental and emotional disabilities, offering a veteran’s program also, helping so many to have a much better quality of life and a purpose.

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

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | JUL 2022 |

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Silver Springs State Park

Charity: Patriot Service Dogs p68 | Health Journal p70 | State of the City p72 State of the County p74 | OM Marketplace p78 | Looking Back p80

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | JUL 2022 |

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ETC

charity spotlight

Patriot Service Dogs

Photos courtesy of Patriot Service Dogs

Each month, Ocala Magazine features a local charity that uplifts our community. This month’s charity is Patriot Service Dogs, based in Belleview.

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ORGANIZATION NAME: Patriot Service Dogs LEADERSHIP: Julie Sanderson, founder/president LOCATION: Based in Marion County, Patriot Service Dogs accepts applications from veterans across Florida.

MISSION STATEMENT: Patriot Service Dogs trains quality service dogs for military veterans struggling with mobility, PTSD/MST, and TBI, using the skills of women incarcerated in Florida’s largest women’s correctional facility, Lowell Correctional. This dual-purpose program allows us to serve veterans and uplift incarcerated women.

WHAT WE DO: Established in 2009, Patriot Service Dogs trains service dogs for veterans struggling with a range of issues. During two years of training, our dogs learn over 80 commands to help make the life of a veteran in need easier. We never charge veterans for their service dog or their training. To do this, we depend on a community of donors, volunteers and our prison training program at Lowell Correctional Facility. Together, this unique team turns 8-week-old puppies into professional service dogs for America’s heroes. Patriot Service Dogs is an accredited member of Assistance Dogs International (ADI).

HOW YOU CAN GIVE OF YOUR TIME AND TREASURE: As a small nonprofit organization, donations of any amount are greatly appreciated. It takes a lot of dog treats (and dog poop bags) to train a service dog.

We are looking for volunteer puppy raisers to help raise and train service dogs.

Long- and short-term opportunities are available. No previous dog training experience is needed, just a willingness to learn and love our dogs as much as we do.

More information on donating and volunteering on our website.

WEBSITE: www.patriotservicedogs.org

FACTS + FIGURES Patriot Service Dogs is

one of 147 organizations worldwide accredited

by Assistance Dogs International.

Source: www.assistancedogsinternational.org

>1%

Fewer than 1 percent of veteran applicants in need of a service dog can receive one each year.

Assistance Dogs vs.

Other Types of Dogs "Assistance Dog" is a generic term for guide, hearing, or service dog specifically trained to do more than one task to mitigate the effects of an individual’s disability. The presence of a dog for protection, personal defense, or comfort does not qualify that dog as an assistance dog.

ASSISTANCE DOGS: Guide Dog Hearing Dog Service Dog

OTHER TYPES OF DOGS: Therapy Dog Facility Dog Emotional Support Dog

Source: www.assistancedogsinternational.org

100%

of dogs in the program are sponsored through donations.

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | JUL 2022 |

69

ETC

health journal

3

ways to prepare your home for an extra-long pollen season

BRANDPOINT

W

arm weather brings people outdoors where they are greeted with sunshine and breezes, as well as allergens like tree, grass and weed pollen. This is a big problem if you have allergies or asthma, and to make matters worse, research shows allergy season is starting earlier and lasting longer than usual.

“Climate change is causing longer and more intense allergy seasons,” explained Kenneth Mendez, CEO and president of the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA). “Warmer temperatures start the spring pollen season sooner and the first freeze, which stops ragweed growth, a major fall allergen, happens much later. Higher levels of CO2 (carbon dioxide) caused by pollution also creates more intense releases of pollen.”

Allergies are a serious public health concern, Mendez stressed. Good indoor air quality is an important part of a healthy living space, and it is a particular concern for the 25 million Americans living with asthma and the more than 50 million Americans experiencing various types of allergies each year.

About 24 million Americans have seasonal allergic rhinitis, more commonly referred to as “hay fever.” Pollen is a major cause.

COMMON SYMPTOMS OF SEASONAL ALLERGIC RHINITIS INCLUDE: • Sneezing • Stuffy nose (nasal congestion) • Runny nose (usually a thin, clear discharge) • Red and watery eyes • Itchy nose, eyes, ears or mouth • Swelling around the eyes

“While you can’t control the air outside, there are many effective ways you can help prepare your home for pollen season and help im-

70

| JUL 2022 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

prove your air quality,” said Dr. John McKeon, CEO of Allergy Standards Limited (ASL), an international certification organization. “Allergy and asthma control begins at home.”

To help you prepare your home for the extended pollen season, Mendez and McKeon share their most effective strategies: BE SELECTIVE AND LOOK AT LABELS When shopping, you probably look for home items that are designed for people with allergies or asthma. The problem is many products claim to be hypoallergenic, but there are no regulations on how that term can be used, so often it’s only as a marketing ploy. People with asthma and allergies need products and services that are backed by science because their health depends on it.

The asthma & allergy friendly® Certification Program is a unique, groundbreaking collaboration between AAFA and ASL. The program scientifically tests household products against strict standards, and those that pass earn the CERTIFIED asthma & allergy friendly® mark. Certified products include air cleaners, air filters, bedding, cleaning products, flooring, paints, vacuum cleaners, washing machines and more. Learn more at: AAFA.org/Certified.

MONITOR POLLEN COUNTS CLOSELY During allergy season it’s important to manage your exposure to pollen to ensure as little as possible is brought into the home. This can be challenging as any time you’re outside microscopic allergens are in the air and can collect on your clothes, skin and hair.

Start by using an app that tracks local pollen counts, so you can know when pollen counts are high, and you can limit your outdoor activities. If you do need to spend time outside, try to avoid peak pollen periods, which typically happen midday. Early morning and evening may be better options as pollen counts may be lower. Furthermore, wear sunglasses and cover your hair when outside to keep pollen out of your eyes and hair.

PROTECT YOUR HOME FROM POLLEN In addition to monitoring pollen counts and being mindful about time outdoors, keep your windows closed during high pollen days and use central air conditioning or air cleaners with a CERTIFIED asthma & allergy friendly® filter and/or HEPA filtration. Keep windows closed when driving in a vehicle as well.

If you spend time outside, change and wash your clothes when you get home. If you have pets, wipe them off with a towel before they enter your home. For yourself, bathe and shampoo your hair (or cover it when outside) daily before bed to remove pollen and keep it from your bedding. Once a week, wash bedding in hot water and detergent, and dry in the clothes dryer or inside, rather than outdoors on a line.

Although allergy seasons are starting earlier and lasting longer, that doesn’t mean you can’t take practical steps to prepare your home for pollen season. With these tips you can help improve your indoor air quality and limit pollen from entering your home.

May is National Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month

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

Discover a healthier you!

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ETC

state of the city

Let’s Celebrate!

How Recreation and Parks Help Shape Our Communities

BY ASHLEY DOBBS

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| JUL 2022 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

Photos Courtesy of the City of Ocala

S

ummer is officially here, which means the days are longer, the nights are shorter, and even though the southern heat of Florida makes many people want to retreat to the indoors, there is something special about spending time in the great outdoors that makes the summer months memorable. Parks are at the center of so many experiences and memories – moments that park and recreation professionals help make happen. During Recreation and Park Month, the City of Ocala, along with the National Recreation and Parks Association (NRPA) encourages residents and visitors within the city to showcase how recreation and parks staff help faithfully serve their communities all year long.

The City of Ocala boasts an impressive 43 parks throughout the city limits: everything from pocket parks tucked away in neighborhoods to large-scale parks in the heart of downtown. Chances are, you’ve enjoyed one of these gems. Not only do our park systems preserve the natural beauty within our cities, but they also provide a backdrop for our memories, opportunities for healthy activities, and help raise our property values and enhance our economic growth.

The theme for this year’s Park and Recreation Month, is “We Rise Up,” and brings attention to how important it is to support recreation and parks because every day these professionals rise up for their communities. The vision of the Ocala Recreation and Parks Department is to provide our community with experiences that captivate and inspire in safe places and spaces. Staff members work hard to provide a variety of programs, activities, and events to meet ev-

eryone’s leisure needs.

This month, the Ocala Recreation and Parks Department will welcome a very special staff member. Rex the Squirrel will join the team and provide fun educational opportunities and photo opportunities when out and about in the community. This loveable mascot is the new face of the department and will hopefully encourage young kids, tweens, and adults to become more engaged within our park system. Rex is personally inviting everyone to his July 20 birthday bash at Tuscawilla Park, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. This family-friendly event will include games, face painting, cupcakes, and a chance to meet Rex himself ! Stay tuned throughout July when we introduce Rex on

his journey to becoming an official City of Ocala employee.

Parks become enjoyable spaces because of the people behind the scenes that make them possible. We often take for granted the hard work it takes to make these parks run daily. City of Ocala Recreation and Parks staff are passionate about their jobs and the services they provide. 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 here to serve the community in every capacity, whether it’s indoor or outdoor activities. They embrace the City’s vision, “To make Ocala a great place to live, play, and prosper.” During July, we encourage everyone to celebrate Parks and Recreation Month and the people who make it something worth celebrating.

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

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

2022 Historic Ocala Preservation Society Board Members

Now Available The sequel to David Cook’s book, with new articles and history. $25.

Available at Your Hearts Desire in Ocala Shopping Center and Shannon Roth Collection on downtown square.

Proceeds benefit preservation efforts in our community.

Dr. Lela Kerley — President Rhoda Walkup — Vice-President Rick Perry — Secretary Dennis Phillips — Treasuer Brian Stoothoff — Past President, 2021 Pamela Stafford Linda Anker Daniel Banks Giorgio Berry Bryan Caracciolo Sean Gallaway Leon Geller Andrew Grunther Trish Kilgore Sarah Kirk Caryl Lucas Leslie McCullough Penny Miller Bonnie Rodriguez 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

ETC

state of the county

Marion County Citizens Academy 2022

Citizens Academy is one of the best ways to learn about local government

BY MARK ANDERSON

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

74

| JUL 2022 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

Photos courtesy of Marion County

T

he Marion County Citizens Academy recently wrapped up its 2022 class!

The Citizens Academy takes around 35 attendees all around Marion County to learn more about the county departments and the hardworking and dedicated people who run them.

Throughout the 11-week academy, attendees visited Utilities, Administration, Facilities Management, Fire Rescue, Animal Services and much more.

The 2022 academy wrapped up with a graduation ceremony at the first County Commission meeting in June, and graduates received a certificate, pin and challenge coin to commemorate their time in the academy.

The academy is completely free and open for anyone who wants to join! Signups go live around the beginning of the year on a first-come, first-serve basis, so prospects may sign up as soon as the announcement is made, posted on the county Facebook page.

So, for anyone curious about how the county’s water treatment plants work, what happens when emergency services are needed, or how traffic signs and signals are maintained, Citizens Academy is the best opportunity for learning more!

Founded 1924 Kiwanis Club of Ocala provides a positive influence and creates opportunities for local children to be curious, safe and healthy. Please join us at one of our meetings to network and highlight local community speakers.

Christopher Hall Building 1310 SE Third Avenue, Ocala Fridays, 12:00PM - 1:00PM

Club Satellite — Mimi's Cafe 4414 SW College Rd., Ocala 2nd Mon of the Month, 6:00 PM

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DEPARTMENTS 44

State of the County Veterans Benefits

The Rotary Clubs of Marion County:

Giving Back Through Service Rotary’s 2 official mottoes are:

The Rotary Clubs of Marion County Support Many Charitable Causes. Some of those include:

• Service Above Self • He Profits Most Who Serves Best

• Interfaith Emergency Services • Discovery Science Center • Annual Rotary Discover Fest Fundraiser

Rotary International serves to bring together business and professional leaders to provide humanitarian services and to advance goodwill and peace not only in their own communities, but around the world. There are over 35,000 member clubs worldwide and over 1.2 million individuals known as Rotarians.

• Boys & Girls Club of Marion County • Wear Gloves • Kimberly's Center • Marion County Literacy Council • Domestic Violence Center of Marion County • Honey Packs, Inc. • Pace Center For Girls

To learn more about joining Rotary, please visit: www.RotaryInternational.com Follow Rotary On Facebook

HOPS

looking back

What’s next for the MCPS building?

BY CARLTON REESE | WITH THE HISTORIC OCALA PRESERVATION SOCIETY

80

| JUL 2022 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

Photo by Jessi Miller

I

n last January’s Looking Back segment of Ocala Magazine, the history of what was then the Marion County School Board administration building was chronicled, and since that time, there has been some movement as to the fate of this historic structure.

Not long after the article was published, the School Board left the building, leaving no tenants and putting the future of it in some serious doubt.

Completed in 1908, the building became the Ocala Primary School and operated in such a capacity until 1966, when it was converted to office space for the School Board. Today, with the board having vacated the premises, the fate of what is an historic landmark may rest solely in the hands of Marion County Public Schools, which may opt to sell the building to private interests.

For its part, the Historic Ocala Preservation Society is trying to save the structure due to its historic value. HOPS President Lela Kerley notes the organization has presented several options to the School Board, which currently is considering building a $41 million administrative complex on the site.

“I’m not sure where they are in terms of their plans moving forward,” Kerley said of the board. “What we don’t want to see is it being torn down.”

Unfortunately, the tearing down of this building is one of the options being seriously considered. It could be the School Board that tears down the building in order to replace it with a more modern facility. Or, it could be a developer who purchases the property and tears it down in order to build townhomes or offices. Either way, such a scenario would be more than a shame, according to Kerley.

“It’s on the National Register of Historic Places – it is a contributing structure to

the southeast historic district,” she said. “Ocala’s experiencing so much growth, it’s not a question of ‘what is Ocala going to look like’ or ‘what is our local identity or character going to be in 20 years?’ but ‘what is it going to be in five years?’”

“If we just tear down our architectural history, what is it that’s going to remind us of what really and truly is special and unique about Ocala? People are drawn to Ocala because of its historic charms and natural resources.”

Kerley notes several viable options that could save the building from destruction.

The first is converting it back to classroom spaces, which are sorely needed as nearby Eighth Street Elementary School and Osceola Middle Schools are at capacity. This would require some renovation, as would many of the other options.

If the School Board votes to sell the prop-

erty, Kerley says the board could put a contingency on the sale that would prevent tearing down the building. She also mentioned the possibility of the building being converted to an equine museum and that there are interested parties having such discussions.

“We would like to see some creative use for this building if the School Board decides to sell it. I think there’s too much public pressure on them to not tear down the building.”

Plans for the property range from constructing a 90,000-square foot administrative complex, to restoring the building for educational purposes, to its destruction for private development. In any case, HOPS has made it its mission to help ensure the building remains as an historic icon and a window into Ocala’s past. The ball is in the court of the School Board.

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