Ocala Magazine August 2024 digital issue

Casana Fink: Florida’s Crowning Glory

An American Artist in Paris

Ocala Film Derby

The Eagles’ Don Felder

OM Welcomes Royal Street Fine Art, Aspen

Arts

Issue

Real Country, city close, if you’re a classic car enthusiast, a second home buyer, or seeking a stunning waterfront building site to realize your dream home, this property is perfect for you. Situated just outside “The Villages,” this site offers 19+ acres of private family retreat with access to 2 crystal clear lakes. Entertainment barn/classic car storage with 3,500+/SF plus loft apartment. 26’ x 50’ Utility barn, 2 private docks, gazebo, firepit, clatter bridge, windmill, and fencing. Horses are welcomed!

SADDLEBAG LAKE TRAILS, TRAILS, TRAILS

NEW PRICE - $1,495,000

Property adjoins the Lochloosa Trail, which runs from Depot Trail in Downtown Gainesville to the Hawthorne Trailhead. 116+/- Acre old Florida-style ranch with beautiful, lush green pastures, beautiful Granddaddy oak trees, plus a small stream that runs through the northern part of the property. 4/4-Brick home with 3,227 +/- SF. The home features a newer metal roof, wood floors, and A/C. Fenced Olympic-sized grass-riding arena. Enjoy the beautiful sunrises and sunsets while enjoying the beauty of the natural setting of this property.

NEW PRICE $1,895,000

Call today for additional information on various purchase options for this magnificent property.

Just Listed

LIVE YOUR DREAM

Stunning, peaceful and tranquil 73 +/-acre horse farm sanctuary, where you and your horses can find serenity! This stunning property is adorned with majestic trees and verdant rolling pastures offering breathtaking views and abundant shade, creating a picturesque setting. This gorgeous property features an elegant brick ranch 3/3.5 home, charming brick 2/1 guest house. Equipment building, 2 barns (30 stalls total), 5 generous pastures, 6 other turnout areas, and plenty of additional acreage. The house includes 2 water heaters. All closets have cedar shelving. The The views of the farm from inside and the outdoor entertaining areas are simple breathtaking. You will enjoy the private oasis of the farm, ensuring your utmost comfort and relaxation.

HAMMOCK PRESERVE

$2,550,000

This beautiful home sits on 4.89+/- acres and features a charming design, with the option to purchase an adjacent lot for another residence or barn. Custom home boasts a private setting and appealing aesthetics. Brazilian walnut front door, 5/3 Triple split home with abundant natural light and breathtaking views. The interior is filled with upgrades, including tall ceilings, polished concrete floors, and hand-applied skip trowel finishes on the walls. The outdoor living area impresses with a covered lanai, a beautiful pool, a pergola, and a generously sized custom fire pit. The property also includes a paddock with power and water, and 15 miles from World Equestrian Center. Additional acreage available $1,520,000

List with us today!

SILVER

Luxury Country Living

Situated on 5.79+/- acres. The residence features a 3-BR, 3BA split bedroom floor plan with an expansive living area and fireplace, a large dining room, and a separate sitting room with expansive windows offering outdoor views. The 8-stall center aisle barn with a separate storage area. Its convenient location provides easy access to WEC, The Florida Horse Park, and Greenways and Trails, 3 miles from town amenities. JUST LISTED $850,000

This large corner lot is fully fenced with white privacy fence. Located Just north of Ocala is this beautiful corner lot on the corner of Jacksonville Road and NE 60th Street. Easy access to Hwy 326 and I-75. Current zoning is B-1 and land use is Residential. Bring your plans and build your dream property. Existing storage building on the property. JUST LISTED $88,000

This 3/2 home on 1 acre with open floor plan, charming eat-in kitchen, formal dining room, and a office. Living room with double-sided fireplace. Kitchen boasts granite countertops, and a delightful view of the brick patio. Detached garage, 1/1 apartment, workshop, and RV carport, Additionally, enjoy the convenience of being near the scenic Santos Trailhead, for biking, hiking, or horseback riding.

PENDING

NEW P RICE $549,000

Turning Point Estates — 3/2 home features partially open floor plan. Kitchen has wood cabinets, pantry, plus sitting area. Family room, dining area, plus large storage area. Spacious backyard offers a screened-in porch with a pergola. Well-kept community with no HOA dues. Located less than 1 mile from I-75 for easy access. New Roof in 2024.

NEW PRICE $254,900

UNIQUE EQUESTRIAN ESTATE

$2,679,000

This turn-key equestrian facility is nestled on 47+/- acres and is a dream come true for horse enthusiasts and professional trainers alike. Boasting 5 barns with 56 stalls, 10 spacious paddocks, a gallop track, a round pen, and a breeding shed, this property offers top-tier equestrian amenities. The primary residence features 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, and a stunning open floor plan. While the residence has been recently remodeled, including a new roof, it’s important to note that the property has an unrepaired sinkhole which was discovered in 2009. Potential buyers should be experienced and well-informed about the necessary repairs and implications. The estate also includes a spacious pool, picturesque farm views, and additional amenities such as a professional dog washing station. Additional amenities include: 3-bedroom employee housing, and equipment building with covered parking. Mature landscaping, beautiful Oaks, and verdant pastures, this farm and verdant pastures, this farm is the epitome of tranquility. Ideally located just 15 miles from the World Equestrian Center, this exceptional facility offers unparalleled functionality and convenience.

LIVING EXCELLENCE

THE

ENCLAVE A GATED SUBDIVISION AT CALA HILLS

BRAND NEW CONSTRUCTION

COMING SOON TO CALA HILLS

UPSCALE, EASY LIVING IN THE HEART OF THE CITY OF OCALA. 104 LAKESIDE TOWNHOMES IN A GATED SUBDIVISION. WALKING DISTANCE — ON A SIDEWALK — TO SHOPPING, MOVIES, PADDOCK MALL, RESTAURANTS AND MORE.

TAKING LOT AND FLOOR PLAN RESERVATIONS. RESERVE YOUR SITE TODAY!

CELEBRATING OUR 44TH YEAR

"An American Artist in Paris" Inside the Louvre Museum

Photo by Jessi Miller

Casana Fink, 2024 Miss Florida

Joshua Jacobs

CELEBRATING OUR 44TH YEAR!

Philip Glassman, CCIM | Publisher philip@ocalamagazine.com

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

EDITORIAL

Brad Rogers | Contributing Writer + Editor brad@ocalamagazine.com

Ronald W. Wetherington | Social Editor ron@ocalamagazine.com

Sharon Raye | Copy Editor

Louisa Barton | Equine Editor

ART

Little Black Mask Media Jessi Miller | Creative Director jessi@ocalamagazine.com

Joshua Jacobs Graphic Designer + Photographer joshua@ocalamagazine.com

Website StevensLabs

Digital Media + Production Services OM Staff

CONTRIBUTORS

Mark Anderson/Marion County | Writer Ashley Dobbs/City of Ocala | Writer

Debra Garcia | Writer

Kairi Lowery | Writer

Mayor Ben Marciano | Columnist

Zoee Zarillo | Social Photographer

OPERATIONS

Randy Woodruff, CPA | CFO randy@ocalamagazine.com

Jackie Prince | Production Coordinator

Adam Hamersky | Publisher's Associate

OFFICIAL MEDIA PARTNER HOPS — Historic Ocala Preservation Society

MEDIA PARTNER & PRESENTING SPONSOR of the Tailgating Competition at Live Oak International

OFFICIAL MEDIA SPONSOR FOR International Women's Day Celebration

EXCLUSIVE MEDIA SPONSOR FOR George Albright Annual Golf Tournament

OFFICIAL MEDIA SPONSOR FOR Go Red For Women / American Heart Association

THE OFFICIAL CITY MAGAZINE OF TEDxOcala · HITS · Equiventure

CONTRIBUTORS

Philip Glassman, CCIM

Publisher

Philip has been at the helm of OM for nearly 5 years with 15 FMA awards. He is also an astute businessman, working primarily in the commercial real estate arena and joint venturing in business start-ups. Philip is a former actor, a creative thinker and father to two beautiful children.

Penny Miller VP/Corporate Development

Penny is with OM over 20 years and owner of an insurance company over 30. She has authored 5 books, owns a media company, founded/directed the Marion County Homeless Coalition, and an appointed Senate-confirmed Commissioner by 4 Governors. Penny served on the Advisory Board of the Barbara Bush Literacy Foundation and President of College Park Kiwanis Club. Her best blessings are her 4 children and 5 grandchildren.

Jessi Miller

Creative Director

Jessi's career is as old as Photoshop but she doesn't limit her art to the computer. Fine artist and awardwinning creative director, she is saving the world, one graphic design at a time at Little Black Mask Media. She is passionate about storytelling, community involvement, peacebuilding, family, and the arts.

Mark Anderson

State of the County Columnist

Mark Anderson is a Public Relations Specialist for Marion County, where he specializes in photography, writing and anything else that comes his way.

Louisa Barton

Equine Editor

Louisa 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.

Ashley Dobbs

State of the City Columnist

Ashley Dobbs is the Marketing and Communications Manager for the City of Ocala. She is responsible for internal and external communications, managing social media, brand standards, and working with collaborators providing outreach to citizens. The City's goal is to put citizens first and make Ocala a great place to live, play, and prosper.

Adam Hamersky

Publisher's Associate

Adam Hamersky is a dynamic entrepreneur and former U.S. Marine with a passion for art and music. He is committed to creating opportunities that bring people together and inspire creativity within the community.

Joshua Jacobs

Photographer | Graphic Designer

Joshua Jacobs is a musician, photographer, and graphic designer from Ocala, FL. He brings a blue-collar, hard working approach to everything he sets his hands to. When not in the office, he can be found on stages across Florida with his band Feverdreams.

Kairi Lowery Writer

Kairi Lowery is a rising junior at the University of Florida majoring in journalism with a minor in public relations. In her free time she enjoys collecting vinyls, reading and going to the beach.

Ben Marciano

Mayor's Column

Born in New York and raised in Ocala, Ben is the new mayor of Ocala. Formerly the executive director of the DeLuca YMCA, he is now the owner of Zone Health and Fitness along with his wife, Danielle. He earned an associate degree in criminal justice from the College of Central Florida and maintains his commitment to the law as mayor. He and Danielle have three children and are members of Blessed Trinity Catholic Church.

Jackie Prince

Production Assistant

An indespensible team member who is usually hidden behind the scenes, she tolerates people with a smile — and prefers the company of her two great danes.

Sharon Raye

Copy Editor | Distribution

Sharon is a native South Floridian who has called Ocala home for over a decade. She studied at The Acting School of South Florida conservatory. She was an active actress and model in FL, NY and abroad for 20 years. Her love for the arts dates back to childhood especially in writing and attention to detail. She is curious by nature, loves traveling, good food, learning about cultures and is an advocate for natural health. Sharon has a daughter who is her greatest joy and primary focus.

Brad Rogers

Contributing Editor

For more than a generation Brad has written about the people, places and issues that shape Ocala, first as a newspaper columnist and editor and now as a freelance writer. He is married and the father of two grown children and grandfather of one. In this month’s issue, he interviews Monica Bryant, OM’s Person of the Year.

Ronald W. Wetherington

Social Editor

Born to a pioneering Miami family, Ron moved to Ocala in 2007 and purchased the Fort King Manor apartment building in Ocala's prestigious historic district. Since his early days as a society editor in Miami Beach, as a photojournalist Ron has devoted his writing and dedicated his photography to charity events.

Zoee Zarillo

Social Photographer

From the city in Connecticut, Zoee fell in love with the country and Florida through Ocala. Her passions lie in modeling, the arts, and fashion. Being in front of the camera has inspired Zoee to also work behind the camera.

The Power of Art

HAPPY AUGUST EVERYONE! My family and I have just returned from a delightful 14-day adventure in the beautiful state of Colorado, where we enjoyed thrilling activities like white-water rafting, rock climbing, and even mountain roller coasting. We were fortunate to explore Denver, Vail, Snowmass Village, and the stunning Aspen.

While in Aspen, we discovered the Royal Street Fine Arts gallery, where the curator, Michael, introduced us to an array of beautiful and original art. Among the incredible pieces was an exquisite original by Charles Schultz, the genius behind Peanuts, and Tom Everhart, which I simply couldn’t resist. I also acquired two other remarkable pieces for my children, Madison and Brax. Through my conversation with Michael, I discovered we share a kindred spirit and a deep love for art. I am thrilled that he chose to collaborate with us in this issue, celebrating our shared passion for the arts. This edition is all about that very love.

At Ocala Magazine, our mission has always been to nurture and support the vibrant art community in Ocala. As an artist myself, having spent three years in Los Angeles as a working actor and maintaining my SAG-AFTRA, and AEA memberships since 2001, I feel a personal responsibility to highlight the diverse artistic talents in our community.

Art encompasses so much more than the traditional mediums of drawing, painting, and sculpting. It extends into music, acting, photography, and even writing. It is our talented writers who bring this magazine to life. I am incredibly proud of our staff, including our lead writers and the brilliant interns from the University of Florida’s School of Journalism, who vividly capture our colorful community from cover to cover in each issue.

This month, we shine a spotlight on the Appleton Museum, our featured charity, which dedicates its time and efforts to creating a wonderful space where both children and adults can explore and immerse themselves in all things art. The outstanding work of Jason Steuber and Victoria Billig can be discovered in more detail on page 80.

In line with the ever-expanding definition of art, we are honored to have Miss Florida, Casana Fink, grace our cover. This multi-award-winning pageant queen embodies beauty, intelligence, and grace. As an Ocala native, she perfectly represents the richness of our art community and will carry that representation all the way to the Miss America Pageant this year. We wish her the best of luck as she vies for the ultimate crown.

Finally, I am delighted to celebrate our talented team’s success at this year’s Florida Magazine Association awards. Our writers, designers, and photographers are some of the finest creators in the city, and it is because of them that we continue to be Ocala’s premier city magazine. I am proud to introduce you to our 2024 Arts Issue.

PHILIP GLASSMAN, PUBLISHER

Charity Spotlight The Appleton Museum

Aspen

Jessi Miller with our FMA awards

Our commitment to Ocala is growing with the opening of our newest hospital, featuring a state-of-the-art ER with shorter wait times, inpatient services for when a higher level of care is needed, an advanced surgical center, the convenience of an on-site medical laboratory, and comprehensive imaging services. Introducing UF Health Ocala Neighborhood Hospital — where convenience meets compassion , backed by the nationally acclaimed care our UF Health experts offer. Located off I-75 at Exit 354 and U.S. Highway 27, visit UFHealth.org/OcalaNeighborhoodHospital to learn more. UF HEALTH OCALA NEIGHBORHOOD HOSPITAL — NOW OPEN

NOW OPEN 24/7 ER

words of wisdom

The arts are more than just a pretty face

Every great civilization has embraced the arts and used public funds to promote and enhance them. That’s because art makes a community or a country better to look at and better to live in.

Imagine Ocala without its Horse Fever horses. Or its murals across the exteriors of downtown buildings. Or the world-renown collection of paintings, sculptures and artifacts in the Appleton Museum. Or the plays and musicals offered by the Ocala Civic Theatre. Or the musical performances at the Reilly Center.

Oh, what a dreary place it would be. Ocala would be a wholly different place without its artistic influences.

The arts in our community are not just beauty and inspiration for its residents, though. A 2022 study by Americans for the Arts found that cultural arts in Ocala/Marion County generate more than $53 million in annual economic activity and provide jobs for some 800 people.

That means arts and culture are a small but growing economic engine that, by no coincidence, is attracting artists from around the country.

And it has happened through the work and generosity of our friends and neighbors.

Consider that a decade ago the Reilly Center for the Arts in Tuscawilla Park was an aging, decrepit Depression-era venue known as the Memorial Auditorium. Through donations from art lovers a 700seat performing arts venue was erected.

Ocala has been blessed by the 17,000 paintings, sculptures and artifacts donated to the Appleton Museum of Art by industrialist and horseman Arthur Appleton. Through care and support from the community, however, that gift has flourished and today the Appleton is accredited by the American

Alliance of Museums, a prestigious ranking that places it among the top 6 percent of museums nationally, in the same category as the Smithsonian.

The Ocala Civic Theatre has been around for nearly three-quarters of a century and been delivering memorable and entertaining performances that whole time. What makes the OCT so special is that its successes come not from out-of-town stars or visiting ensembles. What makes OCT so great — and it’s one of Florida’s biggest community theaters — is that everything is done with local talent, from backstage to onstage to the lighting booth.

Finally, we’re the Horse Capital of the World. So, back in 2001 when local arts afi-

BY BRAD ROGERS

cionados conceived a public arts initiative to raise money to help promote and expand the arts in the community, they dubbed it Horse Fever. Today, the Horse Fever horses still turn heads and serve as backdrops for selfies because people love beautiful art … and horses.

The arts make our community a better, more beautiful place to live. That is inarguable.

They also bring our community together over and over, whether it is to see a play, listen to a concert or simply enjoy artistic masterpieces in an award-winning museum.

We are blessed in Ocala to have not only

Today, the Horse Fever horses still turn heads and serve as backdrops for selfies because people love beautiful art … and horses.

Dads, your children need you in their life!

BY MAYOR BEN MARCIANO

In mid-July, I had the opportunity to go out of state on a retreat with my sons for five days. My first thought when my wife proposed the trip was that I don’t have the time. Between work and the many activities in which our kids are involved, there didn’t seem to be even a moment of time to spare. Not only that, but my to-do list would grow exponentially in my absence. But we went.

My time spent there was invaluable. Not only did we have so much fun participating in all the exciting activities, the time I got to spend with my boys was wonderful. It was time well spent with no regrets. Sure, there were meetings I had to reschedule, tasks that had been postponed and practices missed, but it was definitely worth the trade-off.

This trip had me thinking about the role of fatherhood and the audacious impact dads have on their children. Copious research shows the importance of the role of the father but none more evident than this trip.

Dads, your children need you in their life! They need your time. Pouring into your children doesn’t mean buying them expensive things or going to extravagant places, because what they really crave is the uninterrupted, quality time that only you can give. This task shouldn’t fall on the mother – who is already filling in the blanks with child rearing – or on the extended family who, while they may love your child, isn’t YOU. It is your job as the father.

...to take a walk, push a stroller, throw a football or crawl on the floor to tickle and play with your child doesn’t cost a thing nor does it have to take a long time.

Balancing work and family can be difficult. When money is tight, it feels impossible. But to take a walk, push a stroller, throw a football or crawl on the floor to tickle and play with your child doesn’t cost a thing nor does it have to take a long time. It’s the quality time they need. It’s no-distraction time without cell phones, television and video games.

I always boast that we live in the greatest community. Now imagine that community with dads active in the lives of their children. It would mean a lower crime rate, a decrease in mental health issues, a drop in school truancy, a rise in the confidence of children, better grades and an even friendlier atmosphere.

Dads, you matter. You make a difference. While your situation may not lend itself to easily participate in their life, it shouldn’t stop you from taking an active role. The extra communication and time will speak volumes to your children and to your own character.

So show up to that sports game, clap the loudest at their performance, run around outside and give your children what they need – you.

Ben Marciano is the mayor of Ocala.

Friday, Oct. 11 | 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. | Citizens’ Circle

Guests will enjoy a cook-out dinner (first come, first served) entertainment, games, and family-friendly activities. Educational items and giveaways will be available while supplies last. OcalaElectric.gov

Still Ocala’s most award-winning magazine.

Isn’t it good to know some things don’t change?

OCALA MAGAZINE

2024 Florida Magazine Association Charlie Awards

WRITING EXCELLENCE

Best Writing: Feature

Common Sense Coffee Club | Carlton Reese

Consumer: Circulation Under 20,000 | Bronze Award | 2024 Ocala Magazine

GENERAL EXCELLENCE

Best Advertisement: For a Client

GO52 - All Dressed Up | Jessi Miller

Consumer: Circulation Under 20,000 | Silver Award | 2024 Ocala Magazine

DESIGN EXCELLENCE

Best Design: Typography

Common Sense Coffee Club | Jessi Miller

Consumer: Circulation Under 20,000 | Bronze Award | 2024 Ocala Magazine

WRITING EXCELLENCE

Best Writing: In-Depth Reporting

State of the Children: Collaborating for Kids | Brad Rogers

Consumer: Circulation Under 20,000 | Silver Award | 2024 Ocala Magazine

DESIGN EXCELLENCE

Best Photography: Cover

November 2023 Cover - Gratitude | Ralph Demilio

Consumer: Circulation Under 20,000 | Silver Award | 2024 Ocala Magazine

Art not only beautifies our surroundings but also ignites creativity and fosters cultural dialogue. This belief drives my active support for cultural institutions and my vision to make accessible art a reality for all.

It is important to collaborate and expand our community’s access to the arts. Together, we can create a more vibrant and inclusive cultural landscape.

GLORY Crowning

After chasing her dream of being Miss Florida for more than a decade, Casana Fink now has a shot at becoming Miss America

STORY BY BRAD ROGERS | PHOTOS BY JOSHUA JACOBS

The day started at 3 a.m. It’s a Thursday, and Casana Fink has a whirlwind day ahead of her. First are two early morning television appearances – the first at 6 a.m. – in Gainesville. After that, there’s a tour of the pediatric wing at UF Health Shands Hospital, followed by a stop in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit. A visit to LifeQuest Organ Recovery Services comes next before stopping by a school to read her book about organ donations to students.

It's 5 p.m. now, and Fink is sitting in her white Toyota in the parking lot of the old Ocala train station touching up her makeup before an hour-long photo shoot for this article.

Such is a day in the life of Miss Florida.

Fink, a 25-year-old Ocalan, was crowned Miss Florida on June 29 in Lakeland, capturing the title from a field of 37 beauties. She will now go on to represent Florida in the Miss America Pageant in January.

Winning the Miss Florida title has been a goal of Fink’s since she started participating in pageants a dozen years ago. Her first title

came when she was 13, winning the Miss Lake City Outstanding Teen Pageant. It was the first of a half dozen crowns she would win enroute to becoming Miss Florida, despite taking a four-year hiatus from pageants from 2015 to 2020. In addition to the Miss Lake City teen title, she was Miss Ocala Outstanding Teen and Miss Gainesville Outstanding Teen before moving up in age group and winning the Miss Gainesville, Miss Florida Citrus and this year, Miss Tampa crowns.

Now having achieved her goal of winning Miss Florida, Fink said her pageant experience has helped shape the woman she has become. Oh, she didn’t just win the Miss Florida crown, she won the evening gown, interview and talent (dancing) competitions of the pageant. The triple crown, as it were.

“I think some of my greatest attributes have come from this experience,” she said. “I just think I’m a better person for it.”

A great story to tell Fink’s mother, Selena Fink, said the idea of entering the pageant

“I’ve always been about authenticity, so from then on I wanted to be my true self.”

world came from Joe Wallace, a family friend and retired College of Central Florida administrator who has been a Miss America preliminary pageant judge for more than four decades.

Wallace has followed Fink’s pageant career closely and been an advisor and coach along the way. He said her winning Miss Florida was the result of hard work, beauty, brains and, critically, “having a good story.”

And a good story it is.

When Fink was 14, her father, Jim Fink, was discovered by his brother collapsed in their front yard. He had suffered liver failure. Doctors determined he needed a transplant, and the long ordeal of finding a donor match began. Doctors gave Jim a 3 percent chance for survival.

It took a full year before Jim Fink got his transplant in 2015. It was a harrowing ordeal for the whole family. Casana Fink, who up until then had made introducing the arts to youth organizations like the Boys and Girls Club her pageant “community service initiative,” decided that encouraging organ donation would be her new cause.

For 14-year-old high school freshman, the experience was life-altering and frightening.

“I am grateful now, because it has helped define who I am,” Fink said of her father’s ordeal. “But it was a lot at my age … I talk a lot about that experience because we did not have a roadmap.”

“… If I’m experiencing this, and my family is experiencing this, I need to fight to help other families who are experiencing what we did without a roadmap.”

The importance of organ donation and ensuring availability of organs, for people like Jim Fink has been illuminated by Jim Fink himself. Despite doctors giving him just a 3 percent chance of survival after his liver failed, he is alive, well and thriving a decade later, able to work and travel at will. Everything’s normal, he said … “Except I have to take two pills a day, but otherwise nothing is different than my liver.”

When asked how it felt to have his daughter take his transplant experience and turn it into an advocacy project that has garnered statewide and national attention, Jim Fink responded: “It’s very humbling and it’s, obviously, life-altering.”

The organ transplant issue became more than a talking point during beauty pageants for Fink. Out of her embrace of the issue came the creation of a nonprofit, “Give to Live,” as well as a children’s book she authored, “The Gift of Life,” which Casana Fink distributed to every library in Florida. Plus, she donated more than 2,000 hours to organizations like Donate Life, LifeQuest Organ Recovery Services and Lifelink, all on the front lines of organ donations and transplants.

Her latest achievement involving transplants is being named chief operating officer of the Tampa-based advocacy group More Transplants More Life, which came about after its CEO saw her lobbying the halls of the Legislature in Tallahassee with effectiveness.

BENEATH THE CROWN

Whatever presumed stereotypes linger about the beauty pageant world, Fink is living proof that succeeding in that sphere requires hard work, dedication, education, constant improvement and professionalism.

For example, Fink has a telecommunications degree from UF and is currently completing her Master of Business Administration degree there as well. But that is hardly all she has accomplished during her collegiate years. She lived in London for a while, where she attended Conde Nast College of Fashion and Design, and lived in New York City as well, where she gained further experience in fashion design, including designing her own line of clothing. And on her resume submitted to the Miss Florida Pageant, she said one of her “bucket list” items in the next five years is to “source and design a full curated clothing collection.”

So, there’s clearly more to Miss Florida than a pretty face. And while Fink acknowledges the stereotypes that are associated with beauty queens, she said after her first pageant win, as Miss Lake City Teen – “that was the first time I thought it was cool” -- she resolved to pursue her dreams of crowns and sashes her way, on her terms.

“I’ve always been about authenticity, so from then on I wanted to be my true self,” she said.

And what is her true self, according to her? Being empathetic, hard-working, goal-oriented and a loyal person. It has been a successful foundation for her pursuit of the Miss Florida title and, just maybe, Miss America.

“I’ve been able to integrate what is important to me into what I love,” Fink said.

The Miss America Pageant crown symbolizes five characteristics that the pageant process promotes. The four points of the crown represent service, scholarship, success and style, while the base of the crown represents sisterhood. Fink said her pageant experience has been guided by those principles.

Among the things that she is proudest of in her various reigns as a beauty queen, is being a positive reflection of the communities she has represented, including her hometown, Ocala.

“I’ve always found it extremely important to represent my community,” she said. “The greatest compliment I’ve gotten through all of this is people saying, “You’re so deserving of this.’”

Beyond the scholarships, crowns and contacts that being such a longtime and serious pageant contestant has brought Fink’s way, she said that the overall experience has definitely been defining for her and undoubtedly shaped who she is.

“Who I am is so tightly woven into this, I have no doubt it has shaped who I am today,” Fink said.

She said participating in pageants has taught her how to carry herself, helped develop entrepreneurial skills, stoked sensibilities and empathy for others, helped her learn how to relate to other people, taught her resilience and made her a good public speaker.

THE FINK TEAM

But “the journey,” as Fink refers to her 12-year pageant experience, is not one she has taken alone. Besides her parents, an important supporter has been her boyfriend of nine years, Tanner Waite of Ocala.

“It’s been interesting,” Waite said of the years he’s watched Fink compete. “I’ve

been involved in some things. Like I helped with designing her evening gown for Miss Florida. I just try to be supportive.”

Waite said seeing what it takes to rise to Fink’s level of success shows that the competitions are more than “beauty pageants.”

“It goes beyond aesthetics,” he said. “It’s elevated way beyond that. Yes, you’ve got to look good, but it’s so much more than that. It’s more than a beauty pageant.”

He said what Fink and her fellow competitors do and say in pageants shows they are “highly intelligent” and have acute “problem-solving skills.”

“You can’t prepare for everything,” Waite said. “You have to be able to problem solve on the fly.”

For Fink, her relationship with Waite has been important throughout the process, and she credits him with helping her reach her goal.

“We have a great relationship – just leaning on each other,” she said, adding that the two were taking a European vacation a day after this interview. “I don’t think I would have achieved this without his support. On the bad days, he was the one who was there.”

As for Fink’s parents, Jim and Selena, they know her pageant run will end with the Miss America Pageant – rules prohibit contestants from being Miss Florida more than once and from entering the Miss America Pageant more than once. For them, it is a bittersweet moment.

While having their daughter in pageants is expensive and time-consuming, they recognize what it has meant to their daughter’s development. They said her pageant experience has made Fink selfconfident, an accomplished speaker, a debtfree graduate of college and graduate school and able to make invaluable connections.

“Our aspiration was for her to become a better version of herself, and she has done that,” Selena Fink said.

That said, they will not miss the weeks and months of preparation and the expense of that preparation -- evening gowns cost $3,000 and up.

Jim Fink said the daughter’s success is remarkable given that thousands of young women compete in these pageants every year, and getting to the Miss America Pageant is “surreal.”

Photo provided by Miss Florida Pageant

extremely important to represent my community.”

“Did you know you’re more likely to have a son who goes to the Super Bowl than have a daughter who goes to Miss America?” he asked, offering no statistical support for his claim. But we get the point.

Yet, after she walks across a pageant stage one last time, the Finks are proud that their Miss Florida daughter will leave a legacy because of her advocacy for organ donation.

The proud parents said lawmakers in Tallahassee listen to Fink because, well, she has a good story.

As for Waite, he believes Fink is ready to move on to new opportunities and challenges.

“I think that chapter has about run its course,’” he said. “One of her goals was to win Mis Florida, and she’s done that.”

Fink said as much. Asked how much time she devotes each day to being prepared for her next pageant, she said about four hours a day -- working out, eating right, practicing dance, working on her speaking, trying to prepare for pageant interviews and even practicing walking.

As for Miss America, her only goal is to savor the moment and soak it all in.

SO, WHAT NOW?

The 2025 Miss America pageant is scheduled for January in Orlando. For Fink, it will be Fink’s last pageant.

So, what are her chances of becoming Miss America?

We asked a couple experts.

Wallace, the Fink advisor who has a half century of Miss America preliminary pageant judging experience in Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi and Tennessee, believes Fink has a legitimate chance.

He cites her winning the evening gown, talent and interview portions of Miss Florida as a good precursor.

“I think she has a good chance because she won the three preliminaries at Miss Florida,” he said. “I would say she’ll be a strong contender for Miss America.”

We also asked Miss Florida Pageant Executive Director Keith Williams, who has a 45-year background in pageants, if Fink could win it all.

“I think so. Definitely,” he said. “If she just continues to be herself and she takes what she brought to Miss Florida, then I think she has a real shot at becoming Miss America.”

And her parents?

“I think she has a great chance,” said Selena Fink.

With Jim Fink quickly adding, “We just want her to go, enjoy it and have no expectations.”

Photo provided by Miss Florida Pageant

COLLEGIATE ACADEMY

Students interested in enrolling in Collegiate Academy should express interest by the end of their eighth-grade year and work with their high school guidance counselor in ninth and 10th grade to ensure high school requirements have been met.

In partnership with Marion County Public Schools, the CF Collegiate Academy is a dual enrollment program that lets 11th and 12th grade students earn a degree or certificate at the College of Central Florida before graduating high school –at no cost to the student!

Collegiate Academy students take all of their 11th and 12th grade classes at the CF Ocala Campus or online, which gives them access to all of CF’s student activities, campus amenities and support services such as academic advising, tutoring and career services.

Program starts fall 2024.

Shorter Treatments Deliver Positive Outcomes for Cancer Patients

After being diagnosed with early-stage prostate cancer, Brian Belcastro was told he would need daily radiation treatments for nine weeks. Concerned about potential side effects and his ability to continue overseeing his welding, fabrication and diesel repair business in Hernando County, Brian sought a second opinion.

He met with Dr. Luis Carrascosa, board-certified radiation oncologist at Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute’s (FCS) Ocala Cancer Center.

After reviewing Brian’s diagnosis and discussing his desire to maintain his normal, active lifestyle, Dr. Carrascosa informed Brian that he could be treated in a total of five sessions using a very precise and advanced form of radiation known as stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT).

Today, more than one year after completing his treatment without side effects, Brian is disease-free and enjoying life.

Brian is among the growing number of patients now receiving short-term radiation therapy, like SBRT, for many forms of cancer with positive results.

A focus on safety, precision and personalized treatment

At FCS we apply the enormous ongoing advancements in science and technology to improve the way we plan and deliver radiation therapy.

Using state-of-the-art equipment and sophisticated imaging software, our skilled radiation oncologists are able to deliver higher doses of radiation quickly and safely to a cancerous tumor with great precision, often in one to five treatments. Nearby organs and healthy tissues are protected and side effects are minimal. Long-term outcomes are dramatically better than conventional radiation therapy that can span several weeks or months.

An important weapon in our battle against cancer, radiation therapy uses high-energy X-ray beams to shrink and destroy cancer cells and malignant tumors. Virtually all forms of cancer respond to radiation therapy, which can be used alone or in combination with other treatments, such as surgery or chemotherapy.

We offer:

• AlignRT/Surface-Guided Radiotherapy (SGRT)

• Brachytherapy

• Breast Brachytherapy/StrutAdjusted Volume Implant (SAVI)

• Image-Guided Radiotherapy (IGRT)

• Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT)

• On-Board Imager

• Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS)

The only comprehensive cancer center in Marion County

The FCS Ocala Cancer Center serves patients with all forms of cancer, blood disorders and other conditions, close to home. Our expert team of medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, pathologists and pharmacists work together under one roof. This approach makes it easier to coordinate and deliver the absolute best treatment for each patient’s unique needs to achieve the best outcomes.

Luis Carrascosa, MD

Need a second opinion?

When choosing cancer care, no question is too silly and no amount of research or preparation is too much. Do not be afraid to ask what you want to know to feel comfortable and confident that you have made the best decision for your cancer journey. We welcome your questions and inquiries.

Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute has been awarded with the prestigious seal of accreditation by the American College of Radiology (ACR), which represents the highest level of quality and patient safety.

Ocala Cancer Center

4945 S.W. 49th Pl. Ocala, FL 34474-9673 (352) 237-9430

in

An American Artist Paris

STORY, ILLUSTRATION AND PHOTOS BY JESSI MILLER

American

Ooh La La! Art, Culture, Food, and Unexpected Connections in the City of Lights

My fascination with Paris started in eighth grade with my lovely French teacher, Miss Cosby. She not only taught the language but also shared stories about the city of Paris and its people.

“They are often offended if you don’t at least try to speak French,” she had warned as she painted a vivid picture of the Louvre, the Notre Dame, the city design and intricate roadways. Historic, sophisticated, mysterious and intimidating, Paris began to call to me that year.

While I continued studying French for a few years, my passion for Paris truly came alive during art school. The Art History classes sparked a love of Italian and French art that led to the greatest romance of my life, my love affair with art. Travel filled with art, architecture and cuisine enriches my soul like nothing else, offering fresh perspectives and inspiration.

Decades after that eighth grade French class, I finally embarked on my dream trip. Meeting my Aunt Sydney at Paris Charlesde-Gaulle (CDG) airport, we eagerly began

our 11-day adventure. We powered through the fatigue from more than 24 hours of travel — including the time difference — and hailed a taxi. Despite years of language study, I was insecure about my accent. Fortunately, Sydney is a seasoned traveler, and she had prepared little slips of paper containing the address to our Vrbo apartment to hand to the taxi driver. Voila!

As we rode into the city, we recounted our journeys thus far. Sydney had come from Minneapolis/St. Paul and I had come from Ocala. We discovered a shared topic of conversation on both of our flights: Taylor Swift. Apparently the high cost of a TayTay concert in the U.S. (average ticket price is over $1,200 per seat) drives people to spend those thousands on travel to other countries where her tickets are mere hundreds.

Deep in our conversation about international Swifties, a dull thud and a jerk interrupted us when our taxi driver hit someone on a motorcycle. Arms swaying and shoulders shrugging, the two drivers came to the conclusion that no damage was done so we continued on to our apartment in the Picpus district of Paris.

We rode the tiny two-person elevator one at a time, each with our luggage, up to the 7th floor. Looking out over the family neighborhood off the Place de la Nation, we saw bakeries, shops, people, small European cars, and pigeons. Lots of noisy pigeons. We were situated less than 15 minutes by metro from central Paris’s landmarks. But first, a bit of shopping to stock our small kitchen.

We walked to the local street market and marveled at the fresh foods on display. Gorgeous produce, exotic seafood, meats, cheeses, jams, breads, quiches, pastries, everything you might imagine. Awkwardly trying out my French, I succeeded in making purchases if not having long conversations. A vendor guessed I was Norwegian. Semi-victory.

Still energized despite not having slept, we set out in the beautiful, sunny, 65-degree weather. We bought metro passes and began to explore central Paris. We picked up our Paris Museum Passes (good for entrance at all city museums – a great deal) and passed

I had come home to places that have lived in my mind for ages.

The limestone creates a uniform style with little variation between the yellow-grey tones, and it belies the rich artistic and cultural diversity held within.

by so many sights I have seen in books and movies, I almost felt like I had already been there. Like I had come home to places that have lived in my mind for ages. Except for one thing. I was surprised to see that all of the buildings were nearly the same color.

“There must have been a sale on limestone that year,” I joked with Sydney after

realizing the scenery didn’t change no matter where we went. I wasn’t far off. Paris’s buildings have a warm cream color broken up by black iron balconies and decor, with added gold embellishments. The buildings were made from Lutetian Limestone, or “Paris Stone.” It creates a uniform style with little variation between the yellow-grey tones, and it belies the rich artistic and cultural diversity held within.

The following day we boarded the famous Big Red Bus and rode on the top deck,

touring all the major sights. The “hop on, hop off” bus lets you get a view of everything before doing the deep dives. Sydney had donned her red beret, which became the focal point of my snapshots of the Notre Dame cathedral, the Eiffel Tower, the Champs Elysées, La Madeleine Greek Temple, the Musee d’Orsay, the Ponte Neuf, and the Paris Opera.

Feeling like Paris pros already but just getting started — we sat down at a crowded cafe to refuel. We were enjoying our salads (the goat cheese on Sydney’s salad was amazing! Why are all of the cheeses so good in France? What are they feeding their cows?) and I overheard the table next to us struggling to pay their bill because of American Express cards not being accepted and lack of cash Euros. The conversation was in English, the diners were American. They soon figured it out and continued chatting. I heard one of them mention Cedar Creek and I couldn’t be

discreet about my casual eavesdropping any more. I turned towards them to interrupt.

“Sorry but I have to stop you guys for a second. Did you just say Cedar Creek? Do you mean in Florida?”

“Yes,” the man said, and all four of them looked at me with a look of surprise.

“I’m from Ocala…” I began.

“We are from Ocala!!” they squealed in unison.

After we recovered and closed our gaping jaws, we figured out that, of course, we have cross-ties to places and people in Ocala. It just so happened they were on their first sleepless day in Paris, having traveled there for the Taylor Swift concert. The world is smaller than any of us could imagine.

After that serendipitous encounter, we went to the Louvre. The largest museum in the world, by size and reputation, the Louvre was the only place on the planet I knew I needed to visit before dying. Under the famous glass pyramid entrance (think DaVinci Code), we purchased little Nintendo screens with earphones, and hung them round our necks to do a self-guided tour. But after walking around in circles we abandoned the gameboys and just wandered. There is no place you can end up in this museum that isn’t worthwhile. There is no corner you can turn without saying, “Woahhh,” heading towards whatever masterpiece from another time and place you are drawn to.

Cheeses, wines, cream sauces, meats, desserts, breads, sweet pastries, Viennoise coffees with chocolate, cream and sugar, buttery seafood, butter, butter and butter.

As we roamed the giant, ornate halls, I was feeling elated but also exhausted. Fueled by passion, I took hundreds of pictures that I would never post just to remember details, and all the while the Mona Lisa and Winged Victory were on my mind. Where were they? Because the interactive map had been useless and my energy was waning, I had given up on the Winged Victory that day. Until what felt like miles later, I turned a corner and saw her in all her glory. Up so many stairs and across

I have read about a malady some art students fall prey to — the Stendhal Syndrome. It can cause disorientation, dizziness, confusion, even fainting when seeing a piece of art they deeply connect to. Maybe it’s a displacement in time and space. The energy an artist puts into their piece may well be with it forever, maybe we can feel the sculptor or painter in a very real way. My tears streamed as I took in this statue that has been victorious over time. She was carved in 190 BC and though her head and arms are gone, she has a magnificent wingspan and incredible strength in her body. She leads a ship on its bow as the thin layers of her dress fabric blow in the wind, when you look at her it’s hard to believe she was once a giant chunk of marble.

While I am known to cry over the occasional work of art as I just had, the Mona

Lisa offered a different experience. She is a rock star, incomparably. Sure, Taylor Swift enjoys crowds who travel to see her, but she won’t stand the test of time that Leonardo DaVinci’s masterpiece has. Ten million people make this pilgrimage each year. On busy

so many feet of marble I walked towards her, and as I drew near the tears started to fall.

Up so many stairs and across so many feet of marble I walked towards her, and as I drew near the tears started to fall.

days 250,000 fans will stand in line to catch a glimpse. I entered the room she hangs in and saw that it was full of people standing shoulder to shoulder and inching their way slowly towards her. I couldn’t discern a process, it seemed like quiet mayhem — people crammed together holding phones and cameras overhead, trying with each step to catch a better glimpse and a selfie. They weren’t moshing, but it certainly resembled a concert. It took maybe an hour to get up close to the 21-inch-by-30-inch painting. I persevered and finally came face-to-face with that infamous look of mild amusement. It is a beautiful painting, innovative in its time. And I saw it. Check.

In the days that followed, Paris revealed itself further. I was speaking more and more French but always mixing in some Spanish and Italian, often being mistaken for French Canadian. No one guessed American. Europe is, after all, an area where most people speak a minimum of two languages.

Life goals were getting crossed off the list.

At the Pere Lachaise Cemetery, I paid homage at the graves of Jim Morrison, Frederic Chopin, Edith Piaf and Oscar Wilde, amongst the many cultural and historical icons buried there. Oscar Wilde’s grave now has glass around it because people would leave lipstick kisses all over it, and Jim Morrison’s grave has a tree next to it where people stick their chewed gum to leave their DNA near him. Over three million people visit this cemetery each year, journeying to be near their resting heroes.

Paris’s neighborhoods each offer unique atmospheres. In Belleville I discovered a true melting pot of international cultures and working-class artists. It has a New Yorkish vibe. On the Rue Denoyez, street artists have been given free rein of the walls. Then there are the bright, crowded streets resulting from 200 years worth of immigrants shaping the marketplace. I walked for hours past shops with colorful, international wares. Greek, Moroccan, Chinese, Vietnamese, Tunisian, Jewish, Persian, Jamaican, Latin and Indian — young and old, in every garb imaginable, they all walked and shopped together.

Montmartre is a neighborhood I imagine I would enjoy living in. So creative, sophisticated and flavorful. At its highest point is the giant Sacre Coeur (Sacred Heart) Basilica, which overlooks the vastness of Paris. Its height is topped only by the Eiffel Tower. I also paid the obligatory visit to the Moulin Rouge (whose windmill blades had been stolen), located on the outskirts of Montmartre, in a bustling “red district.”

As the days went by, we experienced a

...how many of these artists had walked on the sidewalks I stood on. Hemingway, Picasso, Henry Miller, Man Ray, Cezanne, Matisse, on and on...

blur of museums, sights and flavors, one peak experience after another. I went back to the Louvre and fell in love with French sculptures, so ornate, creative and detailed they seemed to be some of the truest portraits I’d ever seen. I walked all of the Tuileries Gardens and into the Musee de l’Orangerie, where I was immersed in water lily murals by Monet, and other paintings by some of my favorite artists, who I knew all hung out together in Gertrude Stein’s salons. I went by her apartment building where she held her salons, thinking just how many of these artists had walked on the same sidewalks I stood on. Hemingway, Picasso, Henry Miller, Man Ray, Cezanne, Matisse, on and on the list goes.

I visited Versailles and could easily get lost in its gold-gilded magnificence and the vast musical gardens. The history lessons learned along in every room shone more light on the French culture that has evolved today. France is not a young country.

I descended into the Paris Catacombs, ten stories down a narrow spiral staircase to

the underground mile of halls lined with skulls and bones. Ironically, the macabre exploration was one of my most “fun” experiences.

A favorite discovery was Giverny, where Monet’s home and gardens are. An hour outside of Paris by train, we were transported to the storybook countryside. Monet created an absolute heaven and it’s no wonder so many artists came to visit him and spend time there. His gardens are magnificent, a symphony of colors, shapes — a vast and artful display of nature. Outside of his home we ate the best seafood and drank the best wine on the trip. I never hesitated to order what I wanted without thinking of calories, and it paid off in taste thrills every day.

“The French Paradox” is a term given to the unexpected way the French consume so much high fat foods yet maintain a low coronary heart disease and most everyone is thin. In the 11 days I was there I feasted on rich food as much as I wanted. Cheeses, wines, cream sauces,

meats, desserts, breads, sweet pastries, Viennoise coffees with chocolate, cream and sugar, buttery seafood, butter, butter and butter. When I weighed myself at home, I found I had lost 2 pounds. The food is clean and the walking helps.

Watching locals walking on the sidewalks, carrying small bags for their groceries and goods, I realized most people don’t d rive. Every neighborhood has grocers, small produce shops, boulangeries (bakeries), and pharmacies every few blocks so no one has to get in a car. Lots of walking. Lots of stairs.

Our last night was spent on a sparkling dinner cruise on the Seine. Drinking champagne and enjoying exquisite cuisine, we watched the sun go down on the “city of lights” and its sparkling centerpiece, the Eiffel Tower.

As we departed early the next morning, I did not feel sadness over leaving, but rather a determination to find a way back, and often. With a silent, “A bientot, Paris” (see you soon), I knew this wouldn’t be my last visit.

Ocala

B Y B R A D R O G E R S

BY

Competition fosters the talents of Marion County’s best and brightest young video and film makers

PHOTOS

RALPH DEMILIO

When

Marion County students

went to the statewide high school video production competition last year, they made their presence felt in a big way. The local teams captured half of the awards presented -- just the latest in a series of remarkable performances by local video arts students in state and national competitions.

Now, the community is looking to build on those talents and successes with the fledgling but growing Ocala Film Derby, a five-day event slated for Sept. 18-22 that will be staged in downtown Ocala and feature teams made up of area high school and middle school students.

In its second year, the Film Derby is an immersive and, at times, intense competition where students and local mentors are given one day to produce a video. Each team is given mandatory prompts — a prop, a location, a line of dialogue, and a character name — and one day to write, shoot, edit, and produce an original 7- to 8-minute film.

The Film Derby was the brainchild of Laurie Zink, development and community outreach director for the Institute of Human and Machine Cognition in downtown Ocala. As chairperson of the Marion County Public Schools Career and Technical Education Audio/Visual Arts Business Advisory Council, Zink pushed the idea to help elevate an already robust video arts program in the schools. The Public Education Foundation of Marion County is partnering with the Film Derby committee.

“Recognizing the talent pool we have in the county, and trying to support them moving forward, is why the Film Derby was created,” she said. “We want to give them real world application of the visual and communication arts and prepare students for a possible future in these industries. And from last year to this year, we learned a lot.”

And grown a lot. In its inaugural year in 2023, the Film Derby included four county high schools and two middle schools. This

Each team is given mandatory prompts — a prop, a location, a line of dialogue, and a character name — and one day to write, shoot, edit, and produce an original 7- to 8-minute film.

year, the Film Derby will include participants from all seven public high schools in the county as well as five middle schools.

David Guest, the video production instructor at Forest High, said students selected for the Film Derby are “the cream of the crop.” He said the program not only teaches how to produce a film under pressure with set parameters, it teaches teamwork and leadership as well.

“It’s a real-world experience where you really see the personalities,” he said.

Each of the Film Derby teams will consist of six high school students, two middle school students, one alternate student, a local business mentor and a teacher. The names for each team will be drawn from a hat. Teachers are not allowed to participate in the actual production process – that is what the mentors do.

The unfamiliarity of the team members and the outcome of that was a learning experience, for Film Derby organizers last year.

“When you blend kids with kids they don’t know, with mentors they don’t know, with teachers they don’t know, it became apparent that those who didn’t understand how to be a team were at a disadvantage,” Zink said. “If everyone doesn’t come together, we can talk about filming all we want, but they won’t be successful”

As a result, the second Film Derby will put an emphasis on team building with workshops and discussions with experts in film making, including actress Wendy Makkena. Makkena is best known for her role as a young nun in Whoopi Goldberg’s “Sister Act” films.

Makkena said she likes the premise of the Film Derby, especially the short time frame.

“I think something magical happens when you don’t have time to think,” she said.

Makkena, who taught at the Manhattan Film Institute for a dozen years, said with young people, smartphones have made all of them videographers, “whether they call themselves that or not.”

“I teach people how to lean heavily on their instincts,” she said. “I teach a skill that encourages students to follow their instincts.”

Instinct is crucial to success in the Film Derby because of the time limitations.

The five-day event will kick off on Sept. 18 with introductions, team selections and scholarship opportunities. On Sept. 19, a day

of workshops and a tour of filming sites will be conducted. Sept. 20 will be devoted to the teams producing their films – starting at 8 a.m. and concluding with submission of their final work at 6 p.m. Sept. 21 will feature an actors’ workshop with Makkena, with the Film Derby concluding on Sept. 22 with screenings of the films at the Marion Theater, followed by award and scholarship announcements.

Zink said the objective of the Film Derby is to help prepare “student pathways to the field of video media and digital technology, which is a fast-growing field.”

The short films being produced by the Film Derby teams are intended to emphasize a major shift in video and film making.

Guest, the Forest High video arts teacher, said the Film Derby gives students a clearer idea of the future opportunities available to them.

“We’ve always had a really talented base for video production,” he said. “This just helps the students realize that they can turn this into a job.” He added that one big aspect of the Film Derby experience is to show “there are more jobs behind the camera,” like writing, editing, audio, lighting and directing.

And while most of the students who will participate work within their schools’ producing videos and films for those schools,

The short films being produced by the Film Derby teams are intended to emphasize a major shift in video and film making.

the Film Derby presents a new challenge.

“It’s nice to see them go out into the real world and face a deadline and persevere and come up with a final product,” Guest said.

He said the Film Derby is a positive and needed step to bring video production in our schools to the forefront – that it is something more than an elective course.

“It used to be like the Fun Club,” Guest said. “Now, it’s more like ‘I’m an artist and I can make this a profession.’”

Guest said after the first Film Derby the benefits of the Film Derby for the students was evident.

“It’s really the most enjoyment of my career,” he said. “It’s all them. You want it to be their product … and there’s no barriers for them.”

Zink said that while the Film Derby is only in its second year, the community has rallied to give its support. The school system has been engaged and supportive, she said, and the downtown businesses have been welcoming and accommodating.

“We couldn’t do it without them,” she said.

The scholarships that will be presented to winners will be provided by local supporters to allow students to pursue a film making career at a college or a film certification program. The scholarships will be managed by the Public Education Foundation.

The Film Derby will not be over on Sept. 22, however. On Nov. 1-2, screenwriter Tony Spiridakis, who is the pen behind the current hit movie “Ezra,” will be in Ocala for a workshop with teachers and mentors as well as an Ocala Film Derby critique and workshop with the event’s seven teams.

“Ezra” is a film loosely based on Spiridakis’ personal experience of raising a son with autism, and he will host a screening of the film at the Marion Theater on Nov. 2 at 1 p.m., followed by a question-and-answer panel discussion covering filmmaking and neurodivergent youth.

Zink said this year’s Film Derby will be bigger and, she anticipates, better because of the lessons learned last year.

“From last year to this year, we have grown and learned a lot,” she said.

Samantha Weston, PA-C Andrev..r Cushenbery, APRN-C Shekeita Perry,APRN-C Jennifer Sinquefield, APRN-BC Sarah Yannone, APRN-C Rocky Grinvalds,APRN-C Cindy Sarduy, APRN-C Nicole Dumont,APRN-8C Chelsea Christensen, APRN-C

Mimi Balch, MD FAMILY PRACTICE

FACC CARDIOLOGY

FoundingPhysician,Colleague andFriend

Robert

Hyosun

LET AMS SHOP

TtoT provides mortgage free housing to disabled veterans and first responders as well as surviving spouses with young children! AMS donates $100 to Tunnel to Towers for every closed VA purchase or refinance transaction!

Most Competitive VA Rates! Close in 30 Days or Less!

*Proud sponsor of Tunnel to Towers* WHY CHOOSE AMS? Home Improvements Option up to 35K Low Credit Score

Same Day Pre-approvals

Access to Loan Team 24/7

Takin’ It to the Limits

Tom Petty may have the reputation of being the most famous rock star born in Gainesville, but he wasn’t the first. That honor goes to former Eagles lead guitarist Don Felder, who beat Petty to the punch by virtue of being born in the city three years earlier. While he hasn’t lived in Gainesville for decades, Felder often still looks back on his days in the Swamp with great pleasure.

BY DEBRA GARCIA

Born in Gainesville in 1947, Felder cherished music from a young age. At just 10 years old he “exchanged with a friend for a handful of cherry bombs” in order to get his first guitar.

The self-taught would-be guitarist was greatly inspired by jazz icons including Quincy Jones, Herbie Hancock, and Miles Davis as well as blues musicians like Albert King and B.B. King.

“I’m primarily influenced melodically by horn players,” he said, “I realized most horn players can only play one note at a time, and you must be very selective about the melody you choose.”

At the age of 13, Felder formed his first rock band, “The Continentals", with Isaac Guillory and friend Stephen Stills. When Stills left the band, he replaced him with future Eagle Bernie Leadon.

“Stephen Stills and I have been friends since we were 14. We still see each other and grab dinner now and then. He was in my band in high school. He left the band, and a week later Bernie showed up and replaced him,” Felder said in a 2024 interview with Kerry Eggers.

In 1959, 12-year-old Felder and fellow Continentals were named a “classy Gainesville band" and pictured playing at a Freshman forum.

“I'm the skinny kid on the right playing a Stratocaster,” Felder shared on Facebook.

While playing with The Continentals, Felder attended Gainesville High School alongside Petty, Stills and Leadon.

“Gainesville High School had an interesting group of kids during this time,” he stated in a Facebook post.

While growing up in Gainesville, Felder gave guitar lessons at a local music shop called Lipham Music, where he learned how to play slide guitar with future 1995 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame guitarist Duane Allman.

“The Allman Brothers used to live in Daytona Beach. They

would come over to play the fraternity parties and play against us in the battles of the bands; they always won,” Felder said.

During those 18 months when Felder worked at Lipham Music, former guitarist Tom Holtz worked alongside Felder and remembered how talented the young guitarist was.

“He was just that much above everybody else,” Holtz told The Gainesville Sun,“The guy could play stuff that I could barely comprehend.”

Holtz later told the Sun how the music scene in Gainesville has changed since Felder’s days. For example, bands used to play over five times a week with good pay.

“You don’t see that anymore,” he says, “You’re lucky to play on weekend nights these days. You're probably not getting paid any more than you were 30 years ago.”

Felder claims he taught a “young sandy-haired” Petty how to play guitar at Lipham Music, which Petty denied in a Q&A session with the Hollowood Reporter, clarifying that Felder taught him piano.

“Who knew he would become such a rock music icon?” Felder says, “I was so proud to see Tom become as popular and influential as he did.”

During the mid-60s, Felder and Leadon started attending the University of Florida and decided to disband The Continentals. Soon after, the duo formed a “british invasion-influenced frat party-band” first called Pink Panthers, then Maundy Quintet. According to fans on Limestone Lounge, an internet forum dedicated to Florida 60s music, the band's song, "I'm Not Alone," went to #1 on popular radio station WGGG in 1967.

“The Maundy Quintet had one of the best 60s folk-rock 45s ever. It's too bad they didn't have more recordings,” said fan Jeff Miami in 2004 on a Limestone Lounge subpage.

“Our grades haven’t suffered because of the group. It acts as an outlet,” said bass guitarist Barry Scurran to the Independent Florida Alligator in 1967. “We just try to work around our other obligations.”

Tom Laughon, the lead singer of Maundy Quintet, recalled how in addition to the band's four harmonies, they also used Felder’s listening skill to improve the band's sound.

“The way that Felder would listen and listen and get it exactly right, that's what he did,” Laughon says, “He'd come to the practice and he'd know the song. He just had that ear.”

PRE-EAGLES YEARS

In 1968, Felder joined Ocala-based jazzrock band “Brave New Whirl” – later renamed “Gingerbread” – that recorded one album for Creed Taylor Record. This record deal led to yet another change to the band’s name: this time to “Flow.” Felder performed guitar, Rick Jaeger played drums, Jim Alves sported keyboard, Dave Vaught played bass and Ed Landreth sang vocals.

After the band was signed to Creed Taylor Record, they had their debut performance in New York. The self-titled first album had many notable tracks, including "It Swallowed the Sun," "Rodney," and "Sleeping." The band disbanded after the album’s police, with Felder moving to Massachusetts to live with his girlfriend Susan Pickersgill, who was attending Harvard.

“Hey, Creed, It’s Don Felder, of Flow. I just want to tell you that I’ve decided to quit the band. It’s not really working for me and I need to leave,” Felder told Creed Taylor from Creed Taylor Record and published in his memoir “Heaven and Hell: My Life with The Eagles.”

Felder and Pickersgil met in the 60s while her family were vacationing in Florida. They dated for a while, before losing touch for years until Felder randomly called Pickersgil on the phone, which led to the rekindling of their romance. Soon after, Felder left Flow and moved to Boston, where he played at the Holiday Inn lounge in Cambridge and did odd jobs in Dorchester to get by. Felder married Pickersgil in 1971 and moved into an apartment in Hingham. They had four children: Jesse, Rebecca, Cody and Leah.

“I know that area very well,” Felder says, “Since those old days, the city has changed a

“I'm the skinny kid on the right playing a Stratocaster,” Felder shared on Facebook.

lot, especially Commonwealth Avenue. One night, I brought Peter Green, who’d already left Fleetwood Mac, home to sleep on our couch a few nights.”

After 30 years of marriage, the couple divorced in 2000. Felder wrote about the “painful” experience in “Heaven and Hell: My Life with The Eagles.”

In 1973, Felder moved to Los Angeles and was honored to play alongside the group “Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young” in Gainesville. This group consisted of songwriters David Crosby, Felder’s longtime friend Stills, Graham Nash and Neil Young.

“I grew up with Stephen Stills,” Felder says, “and before I joined the Eagles in 1974, I toured with Crosby & Nash in ’73, ironically by being Stephen Stills, playing and singing his parts.”

1973

While playing alongside Felder, Nash always looked up to his bandmate, even after they played together.

“I’ve always been an admirer of Don’s. As a guitar player and a singer, he’s so great,” Nash says, “He learned all of our stuff overnight, and he played with us the very next day. I’m a fan, you know?”

YEARS WITH THE EAGLES

In 1974, Leadon, Felder’s former bandmate and Gainesville High School classmate, invited him to join the Eagles, who were looking to add a skilled guitarist to their lineup. That year, Felder joined the band while recording their third album, "On the Border." His expertise with slide guitar on the track "Good Day in Hell” earned him the name “Fingers” by bandmate Glenn Frey.

In 1975, Felder's guitar work was integral to the album's success, which included hits like "Lyin' Eyes" and the title track "One of These Nights."

One year later, Felder co-wrote the iconic title track "Hotel California," providing the distinctive guitar riff that became one of the most recognizable in rock history. This album solidified the Eagles' place in rock history and became one of the best selling albums of all time.

“People love the music, the guitar solos, and the overall vibe that song has,” Felder said.

In 1979, Felder continued to contribute to the band's success with his guitar work and songwriting on their Eagle's sixth album, "The Long Run,” which included hits like "Heartache Tonight" and "I Can't Tell

You Why."

Throughout his time with the Eagles, Felder often clashed with other members, particularly Frey and Don Henley, over creative and business decisions. These tensions were exacerbated by the pressures of fame and the demanding nature of their tours and recording sessions. Then, in 1980, these conflicts led to the band's breakup, until 1994 when they reunited for the “Hell Freezes Over" tour and album.

After the band reunion, the band received 11 Grammy nominations and won four times. In 1998, Felder was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall Fame with the rest of the Eagles. Felder was also inaugurated into the Musicians Hall of Fame in Nashville in 2016 and the Florida Artists Hall of Fame in 2017.

“I was blessed to have contributed to and been a part of a very talented mixture of voices, writing, guitar parts and production,” he says, “It was a magical, unique combination that happened in a certain place and time. I’m very proud of that.”

In 2001, a year after Felder’s divorce from Pickersgil and during the “Hell Freezes Over" tour, Felder was fired from the Eagles amid disputes over financial and leadership issues. He later filed a lawsuit against the band, which was settled out of court in 2007.

He later wrote about his experiences with the Eagles in the 2008 memoir “Heaven and Hell: My Life in the Eagles.” The book's release led to Felder becoming a “bestselling author,” and with the memoir becoming an instant New York Times bestselling hit.

“There’s still a lot of excitement about it,” Felder says, “As many as 50 people come up to the front of the stage who have the book and want me to sign it at just about every show.”

Years after Felder left the band, The Eagles went on another hiatus in 2013. Unfortunately, Frey passed away in 2016, leading to his son Deacon replacing him in the band in 2017. The Eagles plan to play shows in Las Vegas until October.

POST-EAGLES YEARS

In an interview with Howard Stern in 2008, Felder stated that he is still friends with former Eagles members Leadon and Randy Meisner. Though, Felder only had connections with Frey or Henley when their

attorneys are involved.

But that does not mean Felder lost respect for estranged bandmates. In a 2023 concert, before playing one of Frey’s compositions, he paid tribute to Frey.

“This was a class act, especially considering their turbulent history,” said Taylor Carlson, who attended the concert and saw the tribute live.

Over the years after his departure from The Eagles, Felder made many connections with other musicians in the rock world. In 2014, Felder met and played alongside guitarist Tommy Shaw of the band Styx, and multiple members of the band Foreigner, including founder Mick Jones and bass player Jeff Pilson, all of whom hold Felder in high esteem.

Shaw admires Felder's passion for music and willingness to have fun with it.

“Don’s solos are always very beautifully crafted and constructed, but he’s also a guy who can pick up a guitar and just jam,” Shaw said.

Both Jones and Pilson respect Felder for his contributions to the Eagles.

“Don was an eye-opener for everybody on that tour. He really got it together. He faithfully did those songs he used to do with the Eagles, some of which he co-wrote,” says Jones.

“He made the Eagles rock a little harder,” Pilson said.

Looking back, Felder still can’t believe that his hometown became a mecca of future music icons in the 1960s and 1970s, and for

all he crossed paths with, alongside him were Petty, Stills and Leadon.

“Some areas have a certain magic about them. It was a very unusual thing to have so many musicians growing up together, playing battles of the bands together,” he told The Gainesville Sun, “It had a huge impact on me, from the Latin influences of South Florida to the Southern rock of Gainesville.

Felder, now 76, tours the US with his new band, playing Eagles tracks along with his own original songs.

“A lot of these songs have a different energy now,” he reports. “It’s really a powerful band and everybody sings just spectacular. It’s a really impressive presentation of the songs that I co-wrote, recorded and toured with the Eagles for so many years.”

While Felder has lived in Boston, New York, and California, he often delights in his upbringing in Gainesville. Without the musician's experience and connections in Gainesville, it's hard to say whether he would have changed music history, joined the Eagles, and met Shaw, Jones, and Pilson.

“Growing up in Gainesville, Florida, I always remember standing under the warm moon light with the moss hanging in the trees,” Felder shared in 2023, “When I’m singing Seven Bridges Road, it takes me back to that same exact place. Where does it take you?”

Royal Street

FINE ART

OCALA FAMILY MEDICAL CENTER

DERMATOLOGY &AESTHETIC CENTER

Valentina Bradley Kalbaugh, MD

Dr. Kalbaugh earned her medical degree at Harvard Medical School and completed her Dermatology Residency at The Harvard Combined Dermatology Program at Harvard affiliated hospitals, most notably, Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts. Dr. Kalbaugh completed a Mohs Micrographic Surgery and Dermatologic Surgery Fellowship, under the direction of clinical professors, at The Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio.

Dr. Kalbaugh is a Diplomate of the American Board of Dermatology and is Board Certified in both Dermatology and (Mohs) Micrographic Dermatologic Surgery. Dr. Kalbaugh has been in practice for 25 years and is highly-experienced in the prevention, detection, and treatment of skin cancer, as well as general disorders of the skin, hair, and nails.

Amber Starling, DNP, DCNP-C

Amber is Board Certified Dermatology & Family Practice Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in diagnosing and treating a wide array of both acute and chronic Dermatologic conditions. She performs medically necessary surgical procedures and aesthetic cosmetic removals Amber completed her Doctoral program at The University of Florida with her project on Hidradenitis Suppurativa. Amber is an Ocala native and has practiced here for over 14 years!

Lauren Davis, PA-C

Lauren is a Board Certified Physician Assistant with a Bachelor's degree in Health Science from the University of Florida and Master's degree in Physician Assistant studies from South University in Tampa. She was born and raised in Florida and has always had an interest in Dermatology. Lauren started her career as a Dermatology Medical Assist ant. Her drive and dedication had led her to working as a PA in the surgical department at North Florida Hospital for the last three years. She is eager to get back to her roots in Dermatology. Her focus is on early screening/detection, personalized treatment for her patients and providing a comprehensive approach to skin care. We are happy to welcome her to our Dermatology team!

Valentina Bradley Kalbaugh, MD, Amber Starling DNP, DCNP-C and Lauren Davis, PA-C provide expert, personalized care in the field of Dermat ology. Our CAP Certified on-site pathology lab allows us t o provide patients with quicker, more accurate results.

Some of the conditions treated include:

•Acne •Rashes •Psoriasis •Rosacea

• Diseases of the Hair and Nails •Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) •Growth Removals (moles, lipomas, warts, cysts, etc.)

• Skin cancer Screening, Diagnosis and Treatment (Mohs Surgery)

OFMC Dermatology & Aesthetic Center also offers cosmetic treatments and procedures, including a wide array of facials, Botox® , Facial Fillers, Recovery Treatments (Dermal Stamping), Microneedling, Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) treatments and other laser procedures!

Dive into the ramen revolution—explore new spots or craft your own perfect bowl.

Dining Out p54

Photo: Adobe Stock

18 South

Ocala’s newest and finest dining and entertainment experience. Enjoy cuisine that offers a perfect fusion of raw delicacies of the sea and hardy bites from the land. Raise a glass with craft cocktails and world-class wine selections, while enjoying the best service and ambiance in town. Limited number of private memberships available.

18 South Magnolia Ave., Ocala, FL 34471

Mon-Tues: Closed, Weds-Thurs: 5PM—10PM / *10PM—12AM Fri: 5PM—10PM / *10PM—1:30AM, Sat: 11AM—2PM / 5PM—10PM / *10PM—1:30AM Sun: *MEMBERS ONLY www.18south.vip

Currently accepting early membership enrollments. Visit www.18south.vip

Mark’s Prime Steakhouse Mark’s Prime Steakhouse

Mark’s Prime Steakhouse is Ocala’s Premier Destination Restaurant.

Mark’s Prime prides itself on being a traditional fine dining steakhouse delivering a world-class guest experience. Our diverse menu features awardwinning wines and spirits, prime steaks, and fresh local seafood all prepared by our Certified Executive Chef DJ Fleming and his outstanding team. We pride ourselves on delivering exemplary service to every guest, with attention to detail and intentional hospitality.

30 S Magnolia Ave., Ocala | (352) 402-0097 Tues - Thurs 5pm - 9:30pm | Fri, Sat 5pm - 10pm https://marksprimesteakhouse.com

West 82° Bar & Grill

West 82° Bar and Grill offers a delectable dining experience throughout the day, from breakfast to lunch and dinner.

With event space that can accomadate groups from 10 to 200 people, think about us for meetings, club outings, reunions, and milestone life events. All in a resort atmosphere. Call (352) 795-1605 to make plans for your next event.

Call for reservations and weekly specials at West 82° Bar & Grille. Daily Breakfast 7:00 am – 10:30 am / Lunch 11:00 am -2:00 pm / Dinner 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm / Tiki 11:00 am – 10:00 PM / Bar 2:00 pm – 10:00 pm

For reservations, call (352) 651-5746 or book through the Resy App

Pokeworks

2734 E Fowler Ave Ste C, Tampa, FL 33612 | (813) 443-9975 Mon-Thur 11am–9pm, Fri-Sat 11am–10pm, Sun 11am-9pm

Stop by our bar and enjoy our premium, specialty drinks! Gift certificates available.

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

Pokeworks is a groundbreaking, healthy Hawaiian-inspired fast casual dining experience. From the beginning, Pokeworks was a consumer sensation. Hundreds stood in line to build their own poke burrito or bowl. Today, Pokeworks is the leading and fastest-growing fast casual poke brand in the world, founded on the vision of bringing people healthy, flavorful food. Our chefdriven poke menu offers customizable, low-calorie poke bowls with a variety of bases and proteins to suit every dietary need. Let our sumptuous seafood, hand-cut vegetables and proprietary sauces be the inspiration when you build Poke Your Way™. We think about your calories, so you don’t have to. pokeworks.com

DINE-IN, TAKE-OUT, DELIVERY.

Our hand-crafted Signature Works and FOMO-worthy bowls and burritos o er unique flavors found only at Pokeworks.

International Plaza: 2223 N Westshore Blvd Ste 230B, Tampa, FL 33607 (813) 749-4136 Mon-Sat 11am–8pm, Sun 11am-6pm

GOlist

Brought to you by GO52.events

There are 52 weeks in each year. What are you doing this week?

Summer Night Lecture Series

August 8 | 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. | Fort King

National Historic Landmark

Join us for an enriching journey into history at Fort King during our captivating Summer Nights Lecture Series. Delve into Ocala’s and Florida’s past with new topics each week presented by experts in natural and historical resources. Supporting Civic Youth Engagement for the Environment with Dr. Megan Ennes – Learn how to empower youth in civic action. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to uncover the treasures of our heritage and the stories that have shaped our community. This free program is suitable for ages 13+.

Ocala Kidz Fest

August 10 | 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. | World Equestrian Center

Get ready for a weekend of nonstop family fun at the Ocala Kidz Fest! Join us at the World Equestrian Center on August 10-11, 2024, for the Ultimate Family Fun Expo. Experience a wide array of activities designed to entertain and delight the entire family. Tickets & Admission: General Admission: $8.00 online in advance* | $12.00 at the box office Child Admission (Ages 3-12): $8.00 online in advance* | $12.00 at the box office Child Admission (Ages 24 months and under): Free with an adult.

Hear Us Roar

August 16 | 7:00 p.m. | Ocala Civic Theatre

Please join us for a dual fundraiser for The ARC Marion and Arts in Health Ocala Metro (AIHOM) to support client arts programs promoting self-esteem and wellness. Enjoy a live performance of The ARC clients onstage with acclaimed AIHOM musicians Becky Baby, Megan Miles, and Carl Page. Paintings created by the clients during workshops led by AIHOM Artist Practitioner Christopher Hershberger will be available for bid in the silent auction. VIP tickets include sparkling wine and light hors

d’oeuvres as well as early access to silent auction bidding for client paintings before the concert. General admission tickets feature concert tickets and backstage access to bid on client paintings afterward.

Friday Foodie Fest

August 16 | 5:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. | Lake Lillian

Get ready for the next Friday Foodie Fest! Join us on Friday, August 16th at Lake Lillian from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m. for an evening of delicious food and fun! Indulge in tasty treats from your favorite food trucks. Enjoy FREE family-friendly activities including face painting, train rides, crafts, and more. Explore booths from local businesses, craft vendors, and organizations while enjoying great music.

Bluffett: A Tribute to Jimmy Buffett

August 16 | 7:00 p.m. | Reilly Arts Center

Bluffett takes on the atmosphere of a genuine Buffett concert, right down to the audience participation and enjoyment and energy that goes with it. It will be hard to believe your eyes and ears once the show has started due to the uncanny re-creation by this awesome group of performers! So break out the Hawaiian shirts, the beach sandals and start steaming the clams. Let Bluffett set the beach-pace

and take you to the barefoot sandland of “Margaritaville”! Tickets at www.reillyartscenter.com

North Central Florida Outdoor Expo

August 17 | 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. | World Equestrian Center

Tickets are $8 at the door. Whether you’re a seasoned outdoorsman or looking for a fun day out with the family, mark your calendar and join us! You’re in for a full day of shopping for the latest gear & accessories, activities that are perfect for kids of all ages, and an array of vendors and exhibitors showcasing the latest and greatest for everything outdoor-related.

Adult Spelling Bee

August 22 | 6:30 p.m. | Marion Theatre

Join Artify Ocala at the Marion Theatre as we gather Ocala’s most skilled spellers for the return of this fantastic fundraiser! All proceeds benefit the Marion County Literacy

Council so come out to compete for a great cause! Entry is $25 to compete for a chance to win the Champion Trophy and the Ultimate belt (which you may need to hold up those smarty pants!) Spots are limited to 30 contestants, so act fast. Not sure you’ve got what it takes to be the Best at the Bee? You can still get in on the action! We will have special opportunities for audience participation that will make the evening all the more interesting. Admission is free and the spelling shenanigans are sure to keep you on the edge of your seat.

2024 Extreme Pressure 2nd Biennial of America Prints

Opening Reception

August 22 | 5:00 p.m. | CF Webber Gallery

The Webber Gallery of the College of Central Florida invites you to the opening reception for the 2024 Extreme Pressure 2nd Biennial of American Prints! This exhibition is the second biennial competitive national exhibition organized by the Webber Gallery of the College of Central Florida. Open to all forms of traditional printmaking, the exhibition will present a celebration and examination of contemporary printmaking by artists throughout the United States. The second “Extreme Pressure Biennial,” will be on view from Aug. 5 to Sept. 12, 2024. Our opening reception will be held Aug. 22 from 5-7PM, where light refreshments will be served. Admission is free and open to the public.

Watkins Glen Summer Jam Anniversary

August 23 | 7:30 p.m. | Reilly Arts Center

Join us at the Reilly Arts Center on Friday, August 23rd, 2024 to celebrate the 51st anniversary of the Watkins Glen Summer Jam! Honoring the music of the Allman Brothers Band, Grateful Dead, and The Band with performances by Steeln’ Peaches, Unlimited Devotion, and Harber Wynn. Join us in celebrating the largest musical gathering ever, Watkins Glen Summer Jam 1973. reillyartscenter.com

Parlor Picnics

September 1 | 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. | Arts in Health Ocala

Save the date for our upcoming Parlor Picnic on June 2nd, featuring the theme “Before and After: Timeline of an Artist.” Enjoy an evening of original music and spoken word by Becky Baby and Melissa Casto. For just $20 per person, immerse yourself in this intimate performance set in a beautiful, historic home. This event is exclusively for adults 21 and over and will occur on the first Sunday of each Summer month. You’re welcome to bring your favorite beverages to enhance the evening, along with a delightful picnic supper of your own! Don’t forget to bring your coziest seating for added comfort as well.

Taste of the Town

September 13 | 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm

Ocala Downtown Market

Mark your calendars for Taste of the Town, an evening of fun, music, libations, and savory samplings of many of our community’s different restaurants and Food Trucks, including beer and wine vendors. You won’t want to miss this event that will surely offer something for every palate, plus help a great community Organization!

All dressed up with nowhere to go?

There’s more night life in Ocala and Marion County than you

think!

There are 52 weeks in every year, what are YOU doing this week? GO52 makes that an easy question to answer. Unless you struggle with choices, because yeah, there’s a LOT to do here in Ocala. GO52 is an online event listing epicenter that is dedicated to sharing all of the Ocala and Marion County happenings in one place so your calendar will never be empty again. Visit go52.events, do a quick search, then get out ang go!

Masquerade Ball Raises Cancer Fighting Funds

Circle Square Cultural Center was the scene of an evening to remember by all who attended the Masquerade Ball sponsored by the Ocala Royal Dames for Cancer Research, Inc. The music, performance artist, and silent and live auctions provided regal entertainment throughout the evening. President Caron Reid observed that “Monica Haufler and Helen Greene, co-chairs, spared no detail to take us back to an authentic feel of the

masquerade era. The décor, entertainment, and auctioneer dazzled the full house. It was the place to be.” At the Masquerade Ball, the Master of Ceremonies was Keving Sheilley. The Invocation was given by Dr. Patricia Sokol, Past President.

Loved ones who pass away from cancer are always in our memories. ORD is dedicated to the cause of cancer research. Their charity monies often go to fund seed money for leading-edge cancer research. They are dependent on the generosity of their donors. Cancer prevention and treatment is tireless work for the Ocala Royal Dames.

Caron Reid went on to say that “Our mission is to ensure a strong local/regional effort in the fight against cancer through funding research and education.” The night raised over $136,047.

Save the date of March 29, 2025 for the next gala of the Ocala Royal Dames. Cancer kills. To donate, visit OcalaRoyaldames.org.

Yocum Holly, Helen Greene and Monica Haufler

Barbara Fitos, David and Patricia Sokol

Michelle Dinkins, Edna Degeneste and Kathy Dinkins

Vincent Wallace, Dan Wassell and Larry Johnson

STORY + PHOTOGRAPHY BY RONALD W. WETHERINGTON, SOCIAL EDITOR

Kathy and Rick Scherer and Savannah Rae

Jan and Crysal Westman and Ari Novick

Lisa and Kevin Sheilley

Michelle Guivert with dog

Samantha and Sheriff Billy Woods

Couch Sessions

2024 Episode 2

Couch Sessions Ocala kicked off it's sixth season with episode two held at the Karishma Boutique. Each month host Olivia Ortiz and her team pair a musician with a visual artist at a new location. This episode's musician was John Copeland. The visual artist was Chris Hershberger. There will be two more Couch Sessions this year, watch for them at www.couchsessionsocala.com

PHOTOS BY TOMMY CUEVAS

Chris Hershberger

John Copeland

Olivia Ortiz

Cheers to Laurie Zink

PHOTOS BY JESSI MILLER

No one draws a better celebratory crowd than Ocala's one and only Laurie Zink. Hosted at Stella's Modern Pantry, Chef Albert Barrett kept champagne flowing for Laurie's birthday while guests enjoyed the creative chocolate-covered strawberries. Laurie is one of our Charity Register Hall of Fame profiles this year in honor of all that she does for our community. Join us in wishing her a very happy birthday and the best year yet to come!

Gerald Ergle and Laurie Zink

Tammy Hoff Warren and Jim Hilty

Chris Bricker, Laurie Zink and Jo Foster

Shane and Karla Greenway

Barbara Fitos and Mary Delancey

Jim Hagans, Carole Savage-Hagans and Lisa Fontaine-Dorsey

Crystal and Brent Fernung

Brad Rogers, Jo Foster, Ana Dunwoody, Patricia Sutton, Laurie Zink, Debbie Cannon Rogers and Jessi Miller

Mike and Amy Mangan

Albert Barrett and Laurie Zink

Greg Thompson and Laurie Zink

Laurie Zink and Steve Spivey

Diane Paglia Carrizo, Lisa Fontaine-Dorsey, Angie Lewis, Laurie Zink, Carole Savage-Hagans, Patricia Sutton, Barbara fitos and Paula King

Michael Mehring, Mary Nadeau Taylor and Patrick Watson

FEVER DREAMING

Ocala's premier heartland rockers are gearing up for their first round of singles of their upcoming debut album, Some Great Unknown.

PHOTOS BY JEFF ROACH

Born off the back of a COVID-19 induced dissolution of their former band, The States and the isolation of the lockdown, Joshua Jacobs and Matthew Weisberg started dreaming up what would be next for their musical endeavors. Two such ideas came forward, the forming of a new musical project they called, Feverdreams and an in-home recording studio, Kindred House Studio. After working musically together for the better part of a decade, Matthew and Joshua had a type of secret language only they could understand. They began writing and producing their own songs wanting a more blue-collared, “DIY” approach than previously done before. They released their first single, Wildfire, a roots-driven rock song pushing them into sub genre of heartland rock. They’ve now

gone back into Jacobs’ home studio with a full lineup that includes Taylor Michel on keys, Jesse Coleman on drums, and Cam Bowland on bass to start work on their debut album, Some Great Unknown. The two lead singles off the album will be Hometown Brawl, a straight forward anthem about rising above the small town dramas and Cold Hands, a more somber track dealing with the recent and sudden loss of Joshua’s father.

You can help the band achieve their dream by donating to their GoFundMe here: gofund.me/a2232ef9

COMING MAY 2025 AT GOLDEN OCALA GOLF & EQUESTRIAN CLUB MORE INFORMATION TO BE ANNOUNCED SOON!

Sip•Sit•Support | 2024•Episode 4

The 2024 Couch Sessions Musician and Artist Series is held at four locations and has a different pairing of artist and musician for each date. Seating is limited at these intimate shows, so grab a ticket as quickly as possible. Here's a preview for "Episode 4."

Sky Noel Sadler

Medium/style/genre: Mixed mediums

In your opinion, what role does the artist have in society?

Artist are innovators, creators, observers.

Explain your art:

My mission is to create beautiful things. The process is for me, the final product is for others.

How can people find you and your work?

I mostly do commission work. I don’t have that much art in inventory, but always looking forward to a new project. Find me at SNS Studios on Facebook or @ skysadlerart on Instagram.

Arctic Red

AHMED PARKER

Medium/style/genre: Funk bass

In your opinion, what role does the artist have in society? A conduit for others to view the world as interpreted through the artists lense. Introduce perspective or induce a new point of view through the art. How can people find you and your work?

YouTube

FAREEZA

Medium/style/genre: Alternative rock

In your opinion, what role does the artist have in society?

We love to inspire our audience to be positive to one another, come together, and encourage creativity. Explain your music: Arctic Red’s music is eclectic mix. Ultimately sharing these experiences and coming together as a band helps to focus on the positive and outcomes that can happen, we love to create and inspire others to do so as well.

How can people find you and your work?

Facebook and Instagram Arctic Red Band or Fareeza. Some originals are on YouTube under Fareeza.

WHAT: Couch Sessions 2024 Season 7, Episode 4 WHERE: Professional Firefighters of Ocala Lodge

1013 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala, FL 34470

WHEN: September 6, 2024 7-9:00 p.m.

INFO + TICKETS: www.couchsessionsocala.com

JAMIE MOON

Medium/style/genre: Band/Live Performance/Alternative Rock

In your opinion, what role does the artist have in society?

To entertain and connect people, to express yourself in ways that you normally can't.

Explain your music: Rock influenced from all across the board. Love to play music with and elevate others and do our thing! How can people find you and your work?

https://jamied96.bandcamp.com/ and Jamie Moon on Facebook

Jamie Moon

equine

Photo: Adobe Stock

BY LOUISA BARTON

IFrom the backside of the race track

had not been home to England in over 7 years, and this June I was excited to travel back to the place where I grew up and visit a variety of places. A return to my homeland was nostalgic and a visit to the historic home I grew up in was especially lovely. Traveling with Betsy Bevacqua, who is a dear friend, a wonderful media assistant and a long-time Larsen hay employee was perfect. She was interested in so many things that we saw, and she and I loved my sister’s pub in Barton, the Cottage of Content. She found lots of people and their dogs to chat to and we made some great new friendships that will last a lifetime!

One very special experience was being a member of the media for Royal Ascot. This wonderful opportunity presented itself and having hosted a tv/radio show for over 11 years all about horses, it was a perfect fit for all things horse that I enjoy covering. Of course, I also knew I could share all of this with Ocala Magazine readers upon my return.

Arriving by train in Ascot, there was quite a walk to the racetrack, but in very enjoyable weather with blue skies and sunshine. Ascot is in the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead in Berkshire, England. It is 6 miles south of Windsor and 25 miles west of London. It is most well known as the location of Ascot Racecourse and in the top ten most expensive places in England to live. The facilities at Ascot Racetrack are nothing short of spectacular, spotlessly clean, beautifully situated and very well set up for spectators or for the media. Everyone was dressed as elegantly as possible. The men were attired in top hats and tails and the ladies in beautiful designer dresses with gorgeous hats or even sassier fascinators. It was beautiful everywhere you looked!

Royal Ascot is Britain's most valuable race meeting, attracting many of the world's finest racehorses to compete for millions of

I sent a text to Wesley Ward as we stood there, and I heard a phone beep behind me. It was Wesley’s phone and he texted me back with, “Ascot, the greatest place on earth.”

The Royal Procession at Ascot

Photos courtesy of Horse Talk Show

Julia Barton Reynolds, Louisa Barton, Emma Reynolds and Betsy Bevacqua

The Royal Enclosure

Louisa Barton and top US trainer Wesley Ward

pounds in prize money. 00 horses race across the five days

I thought this out well, as I have traveled to many Kentucky Derbies and Breeders’ Cups to cover Marion County connections to the races. I have learned to wear the most comfortable walking shoes or in most cases, boots. Of course, I was wearing a pair of boots that I could walk miles in. I highly recommend flat shoes or at least something very comfortable for races. There is always lots of walking if you want to take in all the sights. I saw quite a few people struggling in heels even early in the day. I am quite sure these ladies were barefoot by the end of the day!

I was impressed! The jockeys’ quarters entrance was set up in the perfect place, walking right out into the paddock area where soon, we would see the Royal Family who would be arriving to kick off an afternoon of racing. The Royal Procession was

magnificent, and we were just a few feet away from the majestic carriage of King Charles and Camilla, the Queen Consort.

During the time we spent in the paddock, an incredible brass band began playing and the atmosphere was perfect. I had a chance to interview a jockey who walked past us at an ideal moment. He turned out to be Irish jockey Oisin Murphy, who just happened to be riding the King’s horse in the Coronation Stakes that afternoon. One member of the media told us that top trainer Wesley Ward and top US jockey Joel Rosario were both at Royal Ascot for the meeting. I sent a text to Wesley Ward as we stood there, and I heard a phone beep behind me. It was Wesley’s phone and he texted me back with, “Ascot, the greatest place on earth.”

We walked through the Royal Enclosure with Pimms in hand and watched multiple races over a meticulously groomed

grass track. We marveled at no pony horses bringing the racehorses out and I didn’t even see an outrider, although I am sure there must have been someone on hand in case of an emergency or to catch a runaway horse. The horses went to the gates with just their jockeys aboard and all behaved perfectly. One race had so many horses running in it with no mishaps. It was amazing to see this done so well. I could certainly see why riders, owners and trainers would love this facility and this race meeting.

It was certainly an amazing experience, and I was delighted to have the opportunity to share this with our tv and radio show followers and now with you. If you get the opportunity, Royal Ascot is an experience you will not regret taking the time to enjoy! It was a truly lovely experience, escaping the ordinary to indulge in a very royal celebration and festivities.

Nov. 22, 2024 10-3 p.m.

The Equine Industry Expo showcasing careers in the equine industry with demos including horsemanship, farriers, veterinarians and more.

Nov. 23, 2024 10-4 p.m.

The All-Breed Horse Capital Parade and Hobby Horse Equestrian Games Free admission for ALL for BOTH events

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

King Charles and the Queen Consort Camilla Parker Bowles

THIS IS WHY WE WALK.

At the Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s®, we’re fighting for a different future. For families facing the disease today. For more time. For treatments.

We’re closer than ever to stopping Alzheimer’s. But to get there, we need you. Join us for the world’s largest fundraiser to fight the disease. Register today at alz.org/OcalaWalk.

alz.org/OcalaWalk

2024 Walk to End Alzheimer’s Ocala

Citizens’ Circle, 151 SE Osceola Ave. Sept. 28 | Registration 9 a.m. | Ceremony + Walk 10 a.m.

NATIONAL PRESENTING SPONSOR

Silver Springs State Park

Photo: Adobe Stock

EACH MONTH, OCALA MAGAZINE FEATURES A LOCAL ORGANIZATION THAT UPLIFTS OUR COMMUNITY

The Appleton Museum

ORGANIZATION NAME:

Appleton Museum of Art, College of Central Florida

LEADERSHIP:

Jason Steuber, Director

Victoria Billig, Assistant Director

LOCATION:

4333 E. Silver Springs Blvd.

Ocala, FL 34470

MISSION STATEMENT:

The Appleton Museum of Art brings art and people together to inspire, challenge and engage present and future generations through our wide range of collections, exhibitions, programs and educational opportunities.

WHAT WE DO:

Since opening our doors to the public in 1987, the Appleton has and continues to serve the North Central Florida community and beyond with a full schedule of worldclass fine art exhibitions and events. The museum is an important educational hub that provides learning opportunities for all ages, including studio art classes and other educational programs like artist-led gallery tours, presentations by visiting scholars, film screenings and more. As a campus of the College of Central Florida, the museum serves CF faculty, staff and students, as well as other higher education institutions, with ongoing programming and collaborations.

Offsite throughout Marion, Citrus and Levy counties, the museum team provides free outreach activities at community events, such as FAFO’s Ocala Arts Festival and to K-12 classrooms and other organizations that represent underserved children and adults. With nearly four decades of membership, the Appleton serves as a business partner of the Ocala Metro Chamber & Economic Partnership and its network of regional businesses.

Providing access to the arts for as many individuals as possible is at the heart of our daily work.

HOW YOU CAN GIVE OF YOUR TIME AND TREASURE:

An excellent way to support the museum is through visitation – visit, and visit often with friends, family and colleagues. With a full schedule of special exhibitions and programs, and ever-changing permanent collection galleries, there is always something new to see and do. Sharing your passion for the arts will help cultivate future Appleton members and supporters, and a greater awareness for the arts in our community. If you loved your visit, join the museum! Appleton memberships provide unlimited free admission for one year, as well as discounts on art classes and in the Appleton Store, and free admission to many other cultural institutions across the United States through reciprocal programs. For those who are already members, consider renewing or upgrading your membership.

As a campus of the College of Central Florida, outright and planned gifts enrich the arts in our community and create a personal and meaningful way to support the Appleton for generations to come. For more information about including the Appleton Museum of Art in your will, contact Traci Mason, Direct of Development, CF Foundation, masont@cf.edu or 352-873-5808, or visit our website at giftplanning.CF.edu.

BY THE NUMBERS:

The Appleton’s permanent collection of more than 24,000 objects and works of art annually serves more than 50,000 visitors from the community — and all over the world. Since opening the doors in 1987, the Appleton has welcomed over 1.3 million visitors. Free First Saturdays, a monthly free-admission day, served 15,522 children and adults in the 2023-24 season.

Not only serving the public onsite, the museum also has a robust outreach program that reaches Marion, Citrus and Levy counties. In 2023-24, nearly 12,000 individuals of all ages were directly engaged through K-12 classroom visits, special programming for service organizations that serve children and adults, and free artmaking activities at community events. Some 1,174 free bags of art supplies were assembled and distributed to area public schools, with additional bags going to organizations such as Arnette House, Jessie’s Place, Pace Center for Girls, Transitions Life Center and many others.

congratulates World Equestrian Center on being named one of Time’s World’s Greatest Places, the annual list of 100 extraordinary destinations to visit and stay worldwide.

Worn out or worn down?

How to tell the difference between tiredness and fatigue

Have you ever felt like no amount of coffee or rest can shake off your lingering exhaustion? Do you wake up from a full night's sleep and still find yourself dragging? If so, you might be dealing with more than just tiredness; you could be experiencing fatigue.

Fatigue is not just a fleeting feeling of sleepiness -- it's a deep-seated exhaustion that can impact your daily life and point to more serious health conditions. However, these feelings are often dismissed as simCOURTESY

ply needing more sleep or seen as a normal part of a busy lifestyle. According to recent research by MD Live, a leading virtual care provider, many aren't aware of what fatigue is despite experiencing symptoms and 35 percent rarely think about the reasons behind their tiredness.

"While we often use words like 'tired' and 'exhausted' interchangeably, there are distinct and clinical differences between tiredness and fatigue," explained Dr. Maggie Williams, medical director for MD Live Primary Care. "Occasional tiredness can often be managed with better sleep habits or lifestyle changes, but fatigue is a persistent exhaustion

that could signal underlying health issues that should be discussed with a doctor."

Williams shared telltale ways to determine whether you may be experiencing simple tiredness or if your symptoms might point to something more serious.

1. SCRUTINIZE YOUR SLEEP

First, look at your sleep patterns. Tiredness generally improves with a good night's sleep or a short nap, whereas fatigue persists even after adequate rest. Try keeping a sleep diary for a week, noting when you go to bed, when you wake up and how you feel upon waking and throughout the day. If you consistently

wake up feeling unrefreshed or have difficulty staying asleep, it might indicate something more serious. Pay attention to other signs like frequent waking during the night or difficulty falling asleep despite feeling tired.

2. TRACK YOUR TIREDNESS

Consider how long and how often you feel exhausted. Tiredness is typically temporary and linked to specific activities or lack of sleep, such as staying up late to finish a project or getting a poor night's sleep. Fatigue is long-lasting and occurs frequently, often without a clear cause. Ask yourself whether exhaustion is a constant presence in your life, lingering for weeks or months. If symptoms persist and you cannot pinpoint a specific reason, it's more likely to be fatigue.

3. BE ON THE LOOKOUT FOR OTHER SYMPTOMS

Fatigue often accompanies broader and more

severe symptoms, such as muscle weakness, joint pain, headaches and a lack of motivation. Mentally, fatigue can lead to prolonged mood swings, depression, anxiety, and severe cognitive impairment, making it difficult to concentrate or remember things.

4. GAUGE THE IMPACT ON DAILY LIFE

Reflect on how your tiredness affects your daily activities. Tiredness might cause a temporary decrease in productivity and social interactions. Fatigue has a significant and prolonged impact on your ability to perform daily tasks and maintain social relationships.

5. REVAMP YOUR REST ROUTINE

To assess whether you may be dealing with fatigue, address sleep-related issues, including irregular sleep schedules, screen time before bed and an uncomfortable sleep environment. Establish a regular and consistent sleep routine, even on the weekends.

Avoid alcohol consumption, limit exposure to screens at least an hour before bedtime and create a comfortable sleep environment by ensuring your bedroom is dark, quiet and cool. If these changes don't help, it could point to fatigue.

THE CHRONIC CONDITION CONNECTION

Fatigue is often linked to chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, depression and thyroid disorders. Identifying and managing these conditions properly can help alleviate some of the overwhelming feelings of exhaustion.

WHEN TO CONSULT A DOCTOR

If sleep-related issues or extreme tiredness begin to affect your everyday life, schedule a visit with a doctor to discuss your concerns. They can help identify the root cause of your symptoms and develop an effective treatment plan.

ETC state of the city

Diverse Business Enterprises:

Meeting the demands for government projects.

BY ASHLEY DOBBS

Small businesses play a crucial role in the local economy, contributing to job creation, inspiring innovation, and connecting communities. They are typically independently owned, operate with fewer employees and resources, and earn less revenue than larger corporations. But what if there was a way for small businesses to connect with large businesses, combining their services to meet the demands of government projects?

The City of Ocala’s Procurement and Contracting Department helps small businesses navigate the competitive bid process, which is required when a government agency intends to award a contract for goods or services. Small businesses may not be familiar with this statutorily established procedure that ensures transparency, fairness, best value, and accountability in the government procurement process. The City’s Diverse Small Business Enterprise (DSBE) Program was developed to foster small diverse business participation in contracting opportunities with the City of Ocala.

The primary purpose of the DSBE Program is to level the playing field for Diverse Business Enterprises (DBEs), businesses owned and operated by minorities, women, and veteran entrepreneurs, through a variety of program strategies. DBEs are defined by the federal government as small businesses that are at least 51% owned by one or more individuals who are minorities, women, or otherwise deemed socially and economically disadvantaged by the Small Business Association. The program is designed to fully comply with the City’s Procurement Policy which requires the award of service and construction contracts and purchase orders for goods, services, and materials to the lowest responsible bidder. The goal is to provide opportunities for all small business owners to become successful members of the con-

tracting community without disadvantage.

Currently, the City seeks to create relationships between prime businesses (large businesses) and sub businesses (small businesses). When primes and subs come together, they create partnerships allowing them to work together on large government projects like those funded through federal agencies including the Federal Transit Administration (FTA), Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), and Federal Highway Administration (FHWA).

To this end, the City of Ocala is hosting a vendor fair August 14 at the Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place, located at 1821 NW 21st Ave. This event aims to support diverse businesses by providing education, resources and tools for competitive bidding on future opportunities. Participants will learn about the City’s goal for Fiscal Years 2024-26 and explore additional contracting opportunities. A three-year goal of 2.55% was established, meaning the city

must show an attempt in good faith over the three-year period to grow the overall utilization of DBEs to 2.55% of all vendors. It should be noted that the city does not use quotas in any way in the administration of its DBE Program.

“We want to empower businesses to navigate the bid process and actively engage in contract opportunities,” said Daphne Robinson, Procurement and Contracting Director. “The complexity of sourcing the right businesses to meet the City’s needs while balancing the taxpayers’ trust is no easy task. Success comes when you can provide opportunities and understanding to assist both the business owner and the community we serve.”

To learn more about this program or to enroll in future programs, visit www.ocalasmallbiz.com or call 352-629-8234.

Ashley Dobbs marketing and communications coordinator for the City of Ocala.

Tri-Eagle Sales Partners With No Horsin’ Around With Marion Anti-Litter Campaign

Partnership helps spread anti-litter message to keep Marion County beautiful.

BY MARK ANDERSON

The No Horsin’ Around With Marion anti-litter campaign has done a lot over the last couple years to help educate our community about the harmful effects and costs of litter — whether that be a fast-food bag on the side of the road or thousands of pounds of debris dumped in the Ocala National Forest.

The campaign has several facets: advertising and branding throughout the county, an educational campaign featuring the litter mascot Rubbish the Raccoon teaching students the negative aspects of litter, a stricter littering ordinance with increased fines and possible jail time for repeat offenders, and a business partnership program for local companies and organizations with an anti-litter mindset.

The business partnership program helps connect the private industry with local government through sharing the same unified anti-litter message. One such business partner is Tri-Eagle Sales, a beverage wholesaler operating in Central Florida since 1996 and in Marion County since 2013.

Tripp Transou IV is the Vice President of Business Development for Tri-Eagle Sales, and he says the company is committed to creating a cleaner and sustainable world for future generations.

“Tri-Eagle Sales partnered with the No Horsin’ Around with Marion Anti-Litter Campaign because we strongly believe in the importance of environmental stewardship and community involvement,” Transou said. “The campaign’s mission to raise awareness about the harmful effects of littering and promote a cleaner, healthier community resonated with our values and goals. By collaborating with the campaign, we aim to make a positive impact on our local environment, inspire others to take action, and foster a culture of sustainability within our community.”

Transou says the company also hosts

recycling and litter clean-ups in local communities, along with promoting water conservation and providing recycling bins for major events, concerts and stadiums to encourage recycling.

“By fostering a culture of sustainability within our organization and community, we aim to protect the environment and promote a cleaner, greener Marion County,” he said. “Keeping Marion County beautiful is not just a goal but a responsibility that aligns

with our values and vision for a better, more sustainable future.”

Through these business partnerships and other main segments of the No Horsin’ Around With Marion anti-litter campaign, everyone is encouraged to “Step Up, Pick It Up and Don’t Litter” to help keep Marion beautiful.

For more information about the No Horsin’ Around With Marion anti-litter campaign, please visit MarionFl.org/NoHorsinAround

Photos courtesy of Marion County

Living in a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) such as Lakeview Terrace a Life Care Community is a positive step to confidence, independence and security.

Thriving Community

Forge new friendships and create lasting connections with like-minded individuals. Our community events, social clubs, and recreational activities ensure there’s always something exciting happeni ng at Lakeview Terrace.

Beautiful Residences

Our thoughtfully designed living spaces cater to various preferences and needs. Whether you’re seeking a cozy apartment or a spacious villa, we have the perfect home for you.

Delicious Dining

Enjoy culinary delights at our on-site dining venues. Our talented chefs create nutritious and flavorful meals, providing a delightful dining experience for our residents. www.LakeviewTerrace.com

Kiwanis Korner

KIWANIS CLUB OF OCALA — KIDS NEED KIWANIS

Supporting The Children of Marion County in Many Ways

KIDS NEED KIWANIS!

BY DIANA WILLIAMS

PHOTOS BY ZOEE ZARILLO

Kiwanis prides itself in improving the world one child and one community at a time. Our local Kiwanis Club of Ocala has been serving this community since 1924, and the club’s signature project is Camp Kiwanis in the Ocala National Forest. What a history of success! Since 1948 the Camp teaches over 400 campers every year important skills such as swimming, crafts, canoeing, archery, field games, and non-electronic communication. The Kiwanis Club of Ocala offers scholarships to many campers to provide them with an enjoyable camping experience.

You recall our participation in the Southeastern Youth Fair—we purchase a steer each year, auction it off at a Kiwanis meeting, and the money we raise is used to help fund the Camp. We purchase clothes, hygiene products, towels, a Thursday night dance outfit, and shoes for the scholarship campers, package it up and our Camp Director, Scott Mitchell, hauls it to the Camp at the beginning of each week to distribute to our scholarship campers. We have the system down to a science. The school system helps to select the scholarship campers and we had the added help from Troy at The Rock this year who supplied large quantities of towels, tooth paste, soap and shampoo. It was a great partnership, and such a blessing! For many years Diana Williams has been doing the shopping. She has the experience of raising four children and says she’s “a really good shopper.” Her husband, Jim, and son, Van, help to take off all the tags, fold the clothes and manage quality

control; getting the correct size clothes into the right bag can be a puzzle.

Kiwanis encourages others to get involved and embrace the joy of giving back to the community!! Come learn about our other programs—Key Clubs at high schools, Builders club at middle schools, Bring up Grades, Reach Out and Read Literacy project, and Terrific Kids Citizenship. We meet most Fridays, noon, at the Elks Club, to learn from a scheduled program, to network and to make new friends. Our Satellite members meet on the first Monday of each month at Mimi’s at 6:00 p.m., in case your job doesn’t accommodate a noon meeting. Come help us make a difference in the lives of the children in our community.

Kiwanis is now meeting at The Elks Club on 25th Avenue each Friday at Noon for those interested in learning more about becoming a member.

Kids Need Kiwanis

www.facebook.com/KiwanisClubOfOcala

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

BEING THE DIFFERENCE

Food4Kids Summer Program

During the summer of 2023 Food4Kids helped 4 schools and 128 children. We handed out 3258 meals during our very first week and served 147 families.

This year we are supplying food bags to 14 schools and 549 children.

We are thankful for the support we have received from our community partners such as, Habitat for Humanity, Balcony Sports, Lennar Homes, Marion Therapeutic Riding Association, Log Cabin Store, The Help Agency, Ocala Christian Church, Dunnellon Presbyterian Church Women's group, Countryside Presbyterian, Lions Club, Corvette Club of Marion County, and all the many donors and volunteers who have given their time, money and effort to help as many kids as possible facing food insecurity. We love our village!

If people wish to get involved there are several ways to help. We welcome all monetary donations big and small as well as food donations such as peanut butter, jelly, macaroni and cheese, pudding cups, oatmeal, canned meats, canned veggies, pasta and tomato sauce. Please call Teesha at (352)620-8239 for more information.

Explore the Magic of Rotary!

Rotary connects people and transforms communities. Interested individuals are invited to visit a meeting and learn more.

If you are looking for a way to give back to your local community and beyond, consider joining one of these clubs:

Rotary Club of Ocala - Mondays at noonOcala Golf Club

Ocala Metro Club - Wednesdays at noonUnited Way Office, Community Room

Silver Springs Club - Thursdays at noonKnights of Columbus Hall

Ocala Sunset Club - Thursday evenings at 6:15 p.m. - Infinite Ale Works

Belleview Club - Friday mornings, 7:30 a.m.the Belleview Publix Shopping Plaza

The Ocala Impact Club is a new concept! Skip the meetings and go right to service projects

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

BY MADISON GLASSMAN

Hi, I’m Madison and I’m 13 years old. Every month I’ll be sharing with you fun things kids my age may be interested in… it’s a section for kids, so there is a little corner in every OM for all ages! This month’s issue is all about slang. I’m sure my peers already know what they mean, but this first edition is for the parents to help them understand what their kids are saying.

Slang: Slang:

Rizz/Rizzler: Charisma or someone with charisma.

Gyatt: Someone with a large bottom.

Skibiti /Skibiti Toilet: Something bad.

Sigma: Something or someone good and successful.

Bet: An agreement to something.

Bussin: Saying something’s really good or amazing.

Cap: Something that’s not true.

Sus: Is short for suspicious.

Drip: It’s used to complement an outfit if someone has drip they have a good outfit or style.

Let Him Cook: To let someone freely do something they’re good at.

Lit: If something is lit, it’s really exciting.

Cringe: If something is cringe it’s embarrassing or awkward.

I hope you all enjoyed this month’s Kids Corner, and now parents will know exactly what their kids are saying! Thank you for reading and see you next month!

ANNUAL 2024 CHRISTMAS TOUR SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7TH FROM 4- 8 PM

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.

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.

Ocala’s Long History of Aviation: With Thanks to Jim Taylor

When shopping at the Target in Ocala off of SW 17th Street and SW College Road, not many people know they’re actually standing on historic ground–one that was essential in getting the city of Ocala to where it is today.

In the late 1920s, citizens of Ocala wanted to join the newest nationwide craze: aviation. Airports started to pop up across the country, and Ocala was looking to join the trend. The question was– where could this airport go? Obviously, a good amount of land would be needed for such a project, and there was no clear answer of where to acquire it.

In comes Rupert Caviness, a military pilot in World War 1 and a growing leader in advocating for the construction of an airport. Essentially spearheading this initiative, Caviness convinced James J. Taylor, commonly known as Jim Taylor, head of Ocala Ice and Manufacturing, and a part of the well-known Ocalan Taylor family to donate part of an old plantation. Taylor’s one condition: the land must be used solely for an airport and if not then the land must be returned to his family–also commonly known as a reverter clause.

The city complied, and once donated the almost decade evolution and later relocation of the Ocala Airport began.

Only a year later, Taylor Field–named after the Taylor family themselves–was con-

structed and by Jan 20, 1932, the city gathered for an afternoon of awe, seeing over 30 planes land on the field for an overnight stop while Gov. Doyle Carleton and Mayor J.J. Gerig gave a formal dedication to Jim Taylor.

Ocala officially had its first municipal airport. Airplanes had been utilizing the field’s two landing strips long before the formal dedication, but once city officials and the Florida Gov. gave official approval, the airport took off on its own flight to fame.

Aviation continued to take the nation by storm and by 1941 the United States Army Air Forces turned Taylor Field into a basic, level one pilot training airfield resulting in over 5,000 cadets to receive flight training during World War II.

Near the end of World War II in late 1944, the pilot training program shut down and returned to a civil-use airport.

This “civil use,” included several airline companies. Orlando Airlines–later turned into Florida Airways– was Ocala’s sole scheduled airline service until 1949 when the company was shut down by the Civil Aeronautics Board. As a result, Eastern Airlines took over as Ocala’s ticket to other states and cities surrounding Florida.

However, as more and more people grew to love the idea of airplanes, of flying wherever, whenever, the jet age–a time period where airplanes turned to jet turbine en-

gines for power–had Taylor Field struggling to keep up with the times.

“They needed a better runway, better access and better landing,” Terry Crawford said. “It just outgrew its location.” For example, new jet powered airplanes would need longer runways. Taylor Field only offered two, with the longest being 5,000 feet.

Thus, a new airport underwent construction in West Ocala and after starting construction in 1960 and officially finishing in 1962, Ocala’s new airport: Jim Taylor Airport was born.

While the new airport saw many changes in what airlines flew in and out of the airport, including but not limited to Eastern Airlines before the company was shut down, Florida Air Lines, Shawnee Airlines and Skyway of Ocala, the amount of flights taken continued to increase. From three daily flights averaged out of the new Jim Taylor Airport in 1969 to the now hundreds of flights taken out of same airport– now called Ocala International Airport, providing service abroad, the history of flights in Ocala has undeniably come a long way.

So keep in mind this elaborate history of Ocala’s airports next time you shop at Target or head on that week-long vacation, as our city wouldn’t be where it is today without the help of Jim Taylor and his family’s donation to ignite a four-decade long journey of everything aviation.

BY KAIRI LOWERY WITH THE HISTORIC OCALA PRESERVATION SOCIETY

2008

2017

Original Location in 1940