Ocala Magazine November 2019 Digital Issue by ocalamag

OM OCALA MAGAZINE

NOV 2019

15 Charity REGISTER Our

Annual

The definitive guide to Marion County’s charitable organizations and their events

Judy Crane and John West Help Pave The Road to Recovery at

The Guest House

2019 Top

Docs

Ocala’s City Magazine Since 1980 | $5.95

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Cala Hills White Oak Village Phase II

Brand new custom home on 1 Acre Estate Lot 3,500 sf living space

FOR SALE $590,999 Offering pre-construction pricing if contracted before the CO, with a 10% nonrefundable hard deposit.

Call for information 813-727-7657 | Philip Glassman, CCIM This information is from sources deemed to be reliable. We are not responsible for misstatements of facts, errors or omissions, prior sale, change of price, and/or terms or withdrawal from the market without notice. Buyer should verify all information with its own representatives as well as state and local agencies. Brokers please note that a variable rate commission may exist on this offering that might result in a lower commission cost to the Seller if a Buyer’s broker is not involved in the transaction. ©2019 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently owned and operated franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.® Equal Housing Opportunity.

Life is unpredictable Trust the ER Experts

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AHO Ocala Style Magazine Bicycle 9x10.875.indd 1

10/22/19 10:01 AM

CONTENTS NOVEMBER • 2019 FEATURES 16

Charity Register

Connecting With A Cause

Celebration of Nurses Winners

Wetland Groundwater Recharge Park

A Gift For Every Friend

Haute Holidays

Fashion Faves

Local organizations working to change our world How giving affects your local community Ocala’s 2019 nursing award winners

How the city is planning on recharging the aquifer Finding the perfect gift on the square Sustainable luxury fashion to kick off the holidays Dana Dimilo shows off her fashion favorites

DEPARTMENTS

ON THE COVER:

Judy Crane and John West Founders of The Guest House Photographer: John Jernigan

12 Publisher’s Letter 14 From the Mayor 89 LIVE 90 Everything Equine 92 State of the City 80 Charity Spotlight- Jodi Doher 97 EAT 98 On The Menu: Big Hammock Brewery 100 Apple of My Pie 109 PLAY 110 Local Music Scene: Becky Sinn 114 Socially Speaking 123 ETCETERA 124 Health Journal 126 Scoop 132 Looking Back

SPONSORED 33 Hospice 38 Forest Animal Rescue 44 Top Docs 66 The Guest House

| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | NOV 2019

Make your holidays energy efficient! Check out these useful tips to minimize energy costs when preparing meals for your family and loved ones this holiday season! • Use the microwave to cook faster and use less energy. • Be sure to match your pots with the right size lids and burners to reduce heat loss. • Use glass or ceramic pans for faster cooking on lower heat settings.

• Try cooking side dishes with your turkey to reduce cooking times. • Try to avoid opening the oven door to check on your meal to reduce heat loss and save energy. • Load the dishwasher to full capacity before you run it.

For more conservation tips, please visit

ocalaelectric.org

OM Volume 39, Issue 5

NOVEMBER 2019

OCALA’S #1 MOST AWARD-WINNING CITY MAGAZINE Linda Marks | Founder & Advisor linda@ocalamagazine.com

Philip Glassman, CCIM | Publisher & Owner philip@ocalamagazine.com

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

EDITORIAL Melissa Deskovic | Managing Editor melissa@ocalamagazine.com

ART Jessi Miller | Creative Director jessi@ocalamagazine.com

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

Joshua Jacobs | Senior Graphic Designer joshua@ocalamagazine.com

Robin Fannon | Food/Lifestyle Editor PHOTOGRAPHY Ralph Demilio | Photographer The Creative Pretzel | Photographer Ross Anthony | Photographer

Laura Wampler | Copy Editor Sharon Raye | Copy Editor

IVE R OF FIDA E N N I W FLOR INE 2019 A M GATZION CIA DS ASSOA WAR

CONTRIBUTORS

EDITORIAL OR ADVERTISING INQUIRIES 352.622.2995

www.ocalamagazine.com OFFICIAL MEDIA PARTNER HOPS — Historic Ocala Preservation Society MEDIA PARTNER & PRESENTING SPONSOR of the Tailgating Competition at Live Oak International OFFICIAL MEDIA SPONSOR FOR 2019 International Women's Day EXCLUSIVE MEDIA SPONSOR FOR George Albright Annual Golf Tournament OFFICIAL MEDIA SPONSOR FOR FINE ARTS FOR OCALA

THE OFFICIAL CITY MAGAZINE OF

TEDxOcala · HITS · Equiventure

OFFICE 743 E. Fort King St. Ocala, FL 34471 MAILING ADDRESS P.O. Box 4649, Ocala, FL 34478 LETTERS TO THE EDITOR by mail or email: editor@ocalamagazine.com SUBSCRIPTION One year - $49, Two years - $95, Single Issue - $5.95. COPYRIGHT ALL contents copyrighted © 2019 by Ocala Magazine Publications. All rights reserved. Reproduction or use of editorial or advertising content in any manner without written permission is strictly prohibited.

| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | NOV 2019

Lake Weir Lake Weir PROPERTY Shown By Appointment Only

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6,000 Square Feet Under Roof White Sandy Beach with 300-foot Beachfront 3 Bedroom/4 Bath Large Front Entry and Foyer Custom Eat-in Kitchen/Large Center Island/Large Pantry/and Butler’s Pantry Laundry Room off Kitchen area Formal Living and Dining Rooms Office and Library Room Family Room with Gas Fireplace Overlooking Lake/ French Doors leading to Back Deck Master Bedroom w/ Bay window overlooking lake Master Bath w/ Garden Tub & Huge Walk-in Closet Game Room Upstairs with Brunswick Pool Table and Walk-In Attic Access Large Back Deck with Cookhouse and 1/2 Bath Incline Car to Lake Large Outdoor Workshop and Storage 40x60 with Electric and Septic 1/2 Bath with Hookup for RV Majestic Oaks Lining Driveway Lush Landscaping Rustic Beach House with over 500 Foot Dock Large Screened-In Back Porch with Custom Built-In Gas Cooker which leads to Back Deck

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT

Philip Glassman, CCIM 813-727-7657 A Licensed Real Estate Broker

Clay Albright (352) 804-7777 Justin Albright (352) 427-5301 Registered Real Estate Brokers and Agents

This information is from sources deemed to be reliable. We are not responsible for misstatements of facts, errors or omissions, prior sale, change of price, and/or terms or withdrawal from the market without notice. Buyer should verify all information with its own representatives as well as state and local agencies. Brokers please note that a variable rate commission may exist on this offering that might result in a lower commission cost to the Seller if a Buyer’s broker is not involved in the transaction. ©2019 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently owned and operated franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.® Equal Housing Opportunity.

95,000 ilable 4 , 1 $ t a d e Pric ncing Ava a n i F r e n Ow

LETTERS

from the publisher

Give and Give Freely

PHILIP GLASSMAN, PUBLISHER

Photo by Joshua Jacobs

EACH MONTH OM SEARCHES for a charity to highlight we feel passionate about. In my search for November’s issue I happened to be in discussion with a friend of mine, Gabe Doher. Hearing him tell me about his wife’s endeavors I knew my search was over and she was a perfect choice. Jodi Doher, is changing the direction of children’s lives by helping them stay in school, find a focus for their future and obtain acceptance into college. Many of the students she guides come from low-income families where they are the first in their family to attend college. Through the TRIO Talent Search program, Jodi is making changes right here in our own community. For the past 18 years, she has changed hundreds of kids’ lives through her work. She is a testament to the ideals of giving back. In addition to Jodi's charity, we are listing all of the wonderful charities our community has to offer as a resource for you in our 15th annual Charity Register. So, be sure to keep it handy all year round. In this issue, you can also find our annual Top Docs section, which highlights some of the best medical minds in our community. We're also featuring the lovely winners of our 5th annual Celebration of Nurses event that took place earlier in October, which was a huge success and brought overwhelming joy to my heart to see these nurses get the adoration they deserve. As Thanksgiving is fast approaching, I find myself reflecting over this last year as publisher of Ocala Magazine. With all the successes and learning experiences, I have been truly blessed to be surrounded by an amazing team and an even more amazing family. Surely as I count my blessings, I am reminded to be thankful to my parents. Their guidance, love, and belief in me over the years has gotten me to where I am today. It is people like my parents that Jodi reminds me of. She speaks volumes into the next generation's lives—by being there when no one else can and by guiding them towards a better, more fruitful existence and with that I say, thank you.

Jodi Doher

| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | NOV 2019

EXPERIENCE EXCEPTIONAL Ocala Jockey Club International 3-Day Event "The Ocala Jockey Club is a real destination event with a true international feel. It's a world class facility with spectacular viewing and entertainment for spectators and owners. It's an event I look forward to bringing my horses… Great atmosphere and courses on beautiful rolling terrain. The organizers do a fantastic job putting on a top class event.” Lynn Symansky and Donner, US Team Gold 2019 Pan Am Games. 2016 OJC CIC3* Top Placed Thoroughbred Award

Shannon Brinkman Photo

CCI4*-L, CCI4*-S, CCI3*-L, CCI2*-L

November 14-17

Qualifying Event for 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games! www.OJC3de.com 1 mile west off I-75 exit 368 8720 W. Highway 318, Reddick, FL 32686. Tel: (352) 591-1212

LETTERS

MAYOR

from the

Horses and Heroes BY MAYOR KENT GUINN

s Mayor, my position affords me the opportunity to meet many citizens who call Marion County home. I hear stories of how they arrived in the area, the things that they love about our community, and how they are working to make the world a better place. Many of these residents do not get the recognition that they deserve but each one is a vital part of our city. One such organization that is working to help mentor the upcoming generations is Horses and Heroes of Marion County. A 501(c)(3) organization since 1997, they have used the therapeutic quality of the equine industry that flourishes here in Ocala to mentor the young women of Marion County. The idea came to Executive Director and Founder Mindy Nolan-Morrow through her own experience in the equine industry where she realized what an asset this type of mentoring program would be for Ocala. Since its inception, Horses and Heroes has helped many young women find a passion—not only for the equine industry—but for life. Horses and Heroes helps to instill self-confidence, reinforce the ideals of teamwork, responsibility, and the importance of being kind. Through the generosity of the donors in Marion County, Horses and Heroes is able to provide for its participants a mentoring program free of charge. Centrally located residents from all over the county can take part in this organization whether as a participant or a donor and I would highly encourage all residents to take a look at the wonderful program and all of the great work that they are doing. There are many citizens in our community with great ideas and a desire to help, putting their thoughts into actions for the betterment of our city. This is what helps to define Ocala. Neighbors helping neighbors—making the world a better place for us all.

Mayor Kent Guinn

| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | NOV 2019

Dorchester Estates

Gated Subdivision Brand new custom home on 1 Acre lot 2,500 sf living space

FOR SALE

$329,999 Call for information 813-727-7657 | Philip Glassman, CCIM This information is from sources deemed to be reliable. We are not responsible for misstatements of facts, errors or omissions, prior sale, change of price, and/or terms or withdrawal from the market without notice. Buyer should verify all information with its own representatives as well as state and local agencies. Brokers please note that a variable rate commission may exist on this offering that might result in a lower commission cost to the Seller if a Buyer’s broker is not involved in the transaction. ©2019 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently owned and operated franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.® Equal Housing Opportunity.

Charity 15th Annual

Ocala Magazine

The definitive guide to Marion County’s charitable organizations presents numerous opportunities to give back to our community — particularly to those in need. These pages are created to help our readers connect with trusted, local nonprofit organizations deserving of our gifts of time and treasure.

Animals EARS Endangered Animal Rescue Sanctuary

P.O. Box 306, Citra, FL 32113 352.266.2859 | www.earsinc.net Susan Nassivera sportcopy@outlook.com Mission Statement: Preserving with dignity. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: Always improving and adding larger turnouts and new enrichment for our animals. Greatest need: Turnout area for every cat so they do not have to take turns going out. Signature Event: Hot Cars and Cool Cats held on November 16th 2019, April 18th, 2020, and November 21, 2020. See website for locations and more information.

Forest Animal Rescue

640 NE 170th Court, Silver Springs, FL 34488 352.625.7377 www.ForestAnimalRescue.org

| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | NOV 2019

Lisa Stoner, vice president info@forestanimalrescue.org facebook.com/forestanimalrescue Mission Statement: Forest Animal Rescue is a nonprofit wild animal sanctuary and educational facility, dedicated to the lifetime care of non-releasable wild animals to prevent them from being destroyed — and the rehabilitation and release of native wild black bears. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: We are continuing to expand and improve our facility. After moving our entire operation to Marion County and building from scratch, there is much to do. We greatly need assistance with expansion through funding, volunteers, and interns (interns may become eligible for permanent employment).

Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, Inc.

3251 NE 180th Ave., Williston, FL 32696 352.789.5016 www.medicalservicedogs.org Mary Jo Brandt mj@medicalservicedogs.com Mission Statement: Guardian Angels

Medical Service Dogs, Inc. was created for the charitable purpose of rescuing, raising, training, and then donating medical service dogs to mentally and/ or physically impaired individuals to provide aid and independence while improving the quality of life for both the recipient and dog. In addition, it is our goal to promote education about service dogs and pioneer research studies to further advance service dog training. We also strive to raise public awareness regarding the laws pertaining to service dogs and lessen the dependency of the disabled on the government, communities, caregivers, and families. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: We will soon launch a campaign for funds to develop a 68-acre property that we have recently purchased in Levy County into a state-of-the-art training campus that will enable us to change and save more lives. Watch for the launch of our campus campaign! Signature Event: Celebrating 10 years of being a nonprofit! Event TBA.

Have a Heart for Companion Animals, Inc.

P.O. Box, 831413, Ocala, FL 34483 352.687.4070 | www.haveaheart.us Marilyn Marinelli cpoets@embarqmail.com Mission Statement: Have A Heart for Companion Animals Inc. operates as an information and referral center for those who are looking for help related to animal issues. Emphasis is placed on animal welfare education through brochures, website articles, and telephone counseling. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: Our long-term goal is to build a no-kill animal rescue shelter and sanctuary.

Humane Society of Marion County

701 NW 14th Road, Ocala, FL 34475 352.873.7387 | http://thehsmc.org/ Roseann Morton, president web@humanesocietyofmarioncounty.com

Mission Statement: The Humane Society of Marion County is a nonprofit, no-kill shelter dedicated to the care and protection of animals in Marion County, Florida. Our mission is to prevent

cruelty, suffering, and overpopulation of animals. Signature Events: Celebrate the beginning of summer with an old-fashioned cookout at the Dog Days of Summer 2020 event. Enjoy an evening of highstakes casino fun where the proceeds go directly to benefiting the animals at HSMC during the Casino Night 2020.

Patriot Service Dogs

10545 SE 42nd Court, Belleview, FL 34420 | 352.514.9903 www.patriotservicedogs.org Lee Conger, president and lead trainer info@PatriotServiceDogs.org Mission Statement: To enrich the lives of disabled military and veterans in our communities by placing a well-trained and lovingly raised service dog with them and educate the public about the rights of service dog trainers and teams, while focusing on giving disabled veterans back some of their independence lost while preserving ours. Signature Event: Cheers to Patriot Landing! (Dinner Dance). Come enjoy an evening of music and food with the chance to meet our newest puppies in training! Get ready to be charmed! February 29th from 6–9 p.m. at Whispering Oaks Winery, Oxford, FL.

Perpetual Care

1200 NW 73rd Terrace, Ocala FL 34482 888.355.7091 | www.perpetualcare.org Virginia Kilmer | info@perpetualcare.org Mission Statement: Perpetual Care educates pet owners and assists them

with life care and estate planning for their pets in the event that they are no longer able to care for them due to disability or death. When necessary, Perpetual Care also rescues and finds or provides a home for orphaned pets at our Life Care Center. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: Perpetual Care would like to expand the capacity to help more pets by expanding the current facility or find a new facility with more space for animals.

VOCAL (Voices of Change Animal League)

6393 SW 52nd St., Ocala, FL 34474 352.289.0800 | www.vocalforpets.org Info@vocalforpets.org Mission Statement: Our mission is to solve the homeless pet problem through prevention, community outreach, adoption and collaboration. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: Our goal for 2020 is to continue to expand and grow several successful programs. These programs include trap-neuter-return of feral cats, pet food and resources for the public, rescue and adoptions of animals exclusively from Marion County, and providing food and pet items through our warehouse to over 80 other rescues, food banks, and shelters. 2020 Special Event: Come support us our fifth annual Furball on February 8th, 2020!

Addiction/ Substance Abuse Christian 12 Step Ministry, Inc. 415 NW First Ave., Ocala, FL 34475 352.732.0877 www.christian12step.org

NOV 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

Renee Arnett renee@thechristian12step.org Mission Statement: We exist to give hope in Christ, show love through support, and encourage change through Bible-based recovery from substance abuse, emotional strongholds, and codependency. 2020 Goal: Fundraise with an eye toward making our program available globally.

The Centers, Inc.

5664 SW 60th Ave., Ocala, FL 34474 352.291.5555 | www.thecenters.us/ Kristina Donohue kdonohue@thecenters.us Mission Statement: Our mission at The Centers is to strengthen lives with compassionate healing.

Phoenix Houses of Florida

15681 North U.S. Highway 301, Citra, FL 32113 813.881.1000 https://www.phoenixhouse.org/locations/florida/ Maria Alvarez, president and CEO FLAdmissions@phoenixhouse.org Mission Statement: We are passionate about healing individuals, families, and communities challenged by substance use disorders and related mental health conditions.

Arts Fine Arts For Ocala, Inc. (FAFO)

120 SW Fifth St., Suite 106, Ocala, FL 34471 352.867.0355 | www.FAFO.org Maggie Weakley | fafoocala@gmail.com Mission Statement: Formed in 1972 with a simple mission to promote the appreciation of the fine arts and to enhance art education within our community. FAFO continues to support art education through scholarships and various community programs. 2020 Event: FAFO’s Symphony Under The Stars on Mother’s Day, May 10th, 2020 at the Ocala Golf Club.

Magnolia Art Xchange, Inc. (MAX)

531 NE First Ave., Ocala, FL 34470 352.629.8414 | www.maxocala.org Jessi Miller president@maxocala.org Mission Statement: To repurpose historic Ocala Union Station and further develop the downtown cultural campus by providing studios, instructional spaces, and exhibition opportunities for visual artists in a collaborative hub that encourages professional development. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: MAX is Ocala’s first art incubator and we have our first artist residents in studios with a grand opening on November 7, 2019. We will have a second call for resident artists and members early in 2020. Please visit our website www.maxocala.

| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | NOV 2019

org for the latest project information.

Marion Cultural Alliance

23 SW Broadway St., Ocala, FL 34471 352.369.1500 | www.mcaocala.com Jaye Baille | jaye.baillie@mcaocala.com Mission Statement: Marion Cultural Alliance champions, convenes, and creates opportunities for artists and arts organizations.

Ocala Film Foundation

2008 SE 37th Court Circle, Ocala FL 34471 352.817.4155 www.ocalafilmfoundation.org Laurie Zink | lz@zgroup1.com Mission Statement: The Ocala Film Foundation leads our community in creative and cultural discovery through the medium of motion pictures. Our efforts support the cultural and economic well-being of the region, in addition to providing student scholarships and classroom grants to students and teachers of digital media and technology. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: We will be unveiling two new plaques to be added to the Walk of Fame. Date TBA.

Ocala Symphony Orchestra Reilly Arts Center

500 NE Ninth St., Ocala, FL 34470 352.351.1606 https://www.ocalasymphony.com/ Willliam Nassal, president kmccoy@ocalasymphony.com pamela@reillyartscenter.com Mission: Our mission is to create cultural experiences and opportunities for our community through music.

Reilly Arts Center

500 NE Ninth St., Ocala, FL 34470 352.351.1606 www.ReillyArtsCenter.com Megan Whittaker megan@reillyartscenter.com Mission Statement: To provide cultural experiences for the community through arts and entertainment. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: We are continuing to focus on providing high-quality programming, an excellent customer experience, and community impact, especially in our downtown and arts community overall.

The Marion Players, Inc. DBA Ocala Civic Theatre

4337 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala, FL 34470 352.236.2851 www.ocalacivictheatre.com Marilyn Price comptroller@ocalacivictheatre.com Mission Statement: To uplift, inspire, and entertain by providing quality theatrical experiences and performing arts education.

Cultural/ Heritage

donation platform. This will provide an easy way to connect donors to the charitable causes they care about most and encourage them to take action.

Black Nurses Rock, Ocala Florida Chapter

Champions for Champions, Inc.

P.O. Box 5544, Ocala, FL 34478 352.208.9412 | www.bnrocalafl.org Bridget Boynton Bridget.arnp@gmail.com Mission Statement: To assist dedicated, driven, and determined nurses to grow professionally while addressing healthcare disparities in the Ocala and Marion county area. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: To continue getting out in the community to educate and bring awareness about health-related topics and continuing to help aspiring nurses become nurses.

Liberation Ocala African American Council, Inc.

P.O. Box 2693, Ocala, FL 34478 352.875.5071 | Oscar Brown objelb@att.net Mission Statement: Initiate and facilitate programs and activities for the enhancement of the quality of life for African Americans in Marion County.

Disabled Resources ARC Marion, Inc.

240 SE 17th St., Suite C, Ocala, FL 34471 352.585.9158; 352.462.0380 championsforchampions.org Maria C. Roman or Don Nottingham admin2017@championsforchampions.org Mission Statement: The purpose of Champions for Champions, Inc., is to enrich and empower families’ lives and values through providing and facilitating educational, sports, arts, social and life skills programs for people with disabilities. Signature Events: Night of the Brightest Stars: A Christmas Gala held on December 7, Saturday at One Health Center. Fifth Annual Champions Celebrity Night Dinner and Auction at Southeastern Auditorium: March 20, 2020. Tickets will be on sale soon. Fifth Annual NFL Caring For Kids Clay Shoot at Robinson Ranch on March 21, 2020. Celebrity Champion Waiters at Celebrity Restaurants — Various times.

Florida Center for the Blind, Inc.

1411 NE 22nd Ave., Ocala, FL 34470 352.873.4700 | www.flblind.org Mandy Intravaia Development@flblind.org Mission Statement: The mission of the Florida Center for the Blind is to provide services, at no cost, to individuals who are visually impaired, empowering them to live safely, productively, and independently.

2800 SE Maricamp Road, Ocala, FL 34471 352.387.2210 | www.mcarc.com Leah Craig | lcraig@mcarc.com Mission Statement: ARC Marion’s mission is to create opportunities for persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live, work, and play to the fullest of their capabilities in Marion County. Signature Event: Ocala Bike Fest in the spring (March–April). Dates TBA.

Kenny’s Place Nursery

Center for Independent Living of North Central Florida

6850 SE 41st Court, Ocala, FL 34480 352.732.7300 | www.mtraocala.org Pam Morrison execdirector@mtraocala.org Mission Statement: MTRA strives to offer the miraculous benefits of therapeutic horseback riding and equine facilitated learning to persons of all ages and capabilities that are physically, mentally, or emotionally challenged. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: To increase funding for the growing veterans program, Freedom Reins, and the Equine Experience program for foster children and at-risk youth. Upcoming Events: November 30th: Holiday Market and Antique Cars show January 19th: Florida Mini Match

3445 NE 24th St., Ocala, FL 34470 352.368.3788 http://cilncf.org/ Tony Delisle, director Andrea Melvin, office manager amelvin@cilncf.org Mission Statement: Our mission is empowering people with disabilities to exert our individual right to live as independently as possible, make personal life choices, and achieve full community inclusion. Signature Event 2020: The Amazing Give Charity Fundraiser, to be held in March. The Amazing Give will raise money for local nonprofits, like the Center for Independent Living of North Central Florida, through a single online

7677 SE 41st Court, Ocala, FL 34480 352.867.1213 http://www.kennysnursery.com/ Brandy Evans, director kennysplace.marion@gmail.com Mission Statement: Our mission is to create a positive, caring, and accepting environment for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Marion Therapeutic Riding Association (MTRA)

February 24th: Fourth annual Golf Tournament March 1st: HITS Family Fun Day March 21st: Poker Run

Stirrups ‘n Strides Therapeutic Riding Center, Inc.

4246 W. Hwy 318, Citra, Florida 32113 352.591.1042 (office) or 352.427.3569 (Betty cell) www.stirrupsnstrides.com Gail McDaniel, program manager Betty Gray, executive director gemcd123@gmail.com Mission Statement: To provide therapeutic horseback riding and carriage driving to anyone with physical, mental, or emotional challenges and to improve their quality of life with opportunities for emotional, educational, and physical growth through horsemanship and competition. Signature Event: “Goin’ for Gold” charity fundraiser at Golden Ocala held on December 8th at 5–9 p.m. For more information, contact Betty Gray. This is our biggest event of the year! We are so thankful for every bit of community support and assistance we are receiving toward ultimately reach our goals.

Transitions Life Center

NEW FACILITY at 3360 NW Gainesville Road, Ocala, FL, 34475 Mailing Address: P.O. Box 236, Ocala, FL 34478 352.877.8999 | www.tlcocala.org Darren Ritch, president info@tlcocala.org Mission Statement: The Mission of Transitions Life Center (TLC) is to provide a safe, caring, and enriching community for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Education Ambleside School of Ocala

507 SE Broadway St., Ocala, FL 34471 352.694.1635 www.amblesideocala.com Emmy Lilholt elilholt@amblesideocala.com Mission Statement: It is the mission of the Ambleside administration and faculty to provide what Charlotte Mason called “a living education,” where each child is guided and empowered to author a full and free life, a life rich in relationship to God, self, others, ideas, and all of creation. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: We will build out the high school building to accommodate our high school students. Signature Event: Annual Father-Daughter Dance on February 7th and 8th, 2020 at Circle Square Cultural Center.

Cornerstone School

2313 SE Lake Weir Ave., Ocala, FL 34471 352.351.8840 Matt Young, marketing coordinator

info@thecornerstoneschool.org Mission: In an ever-changing world, our mission is to prepare students for success with a comprehensive educational program of an innovative curriculum; inspirational teaching that develops a passion for learning; and the Cornerstone values of acceptance, integrity, and mutual respect. Signature Events: Marion County Chili Cookoff on November 2nd at the Livestock Pavilion. Ocala Derby Party on May 2nd: Ocala’s premier Kentucky Derby party is an evening full of big hats, mint juleps, and exciting entertainment. There will be live music, live and silent auctions, a Best Hat competition, signature cocktails, hand-crafted hors d’oeuvres and multiple big screen TVs showing all of the coverage of the race.

Grace Christian School

4410 SE 3rd Ave., Ocala, FL 34480 352.387.3090 | www.gcsocala.com Kristin Dean | kdean@gcsocala.com Mission Statement: To prepare our children for life, to honor and glorify God in a Christ-centered environment of academic excellence. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: Students at Grace Christian School are taught the importance of giving back to the community through service learning. Each year our school participates and donates to local charities. Signature Event: Our Annual Mother-Son Dance is held each spring. Proceeds from the event are donated to a charity as part of our “Grace Gives Back” program.

Public Education Foundation of Marion County

1239 NW 4th St. Ocala, FL 34475 352.671.4167 | pefmc.org Meghan Magamoll meghan.magamoll@marion.k12.fl.us Mission Statement: To financially and materially support Marion County Public Schools, its students, and teachers. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: We are recruiting mentors for our Take Stock in Children program. Signature Events: Xglosive Tennis for Take Stock in Children – November 8th, 2019 at the Fort King Tennis Center from 6:30–9:00 p.m. This is a fun family friendly glow in the dark tennis-themed event! For more information visit https:// letsgotoxglo2019.eventbrite.com or call 352-671-4167. Sneakers and Smores 5K Run and Walk – Saturday, January 18th at the Country Club of Ocala.

The Memorial Golf Tournament – Saturday and Sunday, January 18th and 19th at the Country Club of Ocala. Moot Thomas Golf Scramble – Monday, January 20th at the Country Club of Ocala. Event information at www.pefmc.org or call 352-671-4167.

R.A.M.A.L. Educational and Social Services, Inc.

1636 SW 31st Ave. Ocala, FL 34474 352.873.1319 | www.ramalservices.org Barbara J. Brooks, Ph.D. barbarabrooksf@aol.com Mission Statement: To provide information, training, and life coaching which will empower, inspire, and motivate individuals to improve their lives and the community in which they live.

St Johns Luthern School

1915 SE Lake Weir Ave Ocala Florida 34471 https://www.stjohnocala.org/ Mission Statement: Saints Alumni & Friends come together to foster continued excellence in academics, athletics, social, and spiritual growth, and Christian Service as exemplified in the founding and continuing mission of St. John Lutheran School.

Environment Howard T Odum Florida Springs Institute

23695 US-27, High Springs, FL 32643 386.454.9369 https://floridaspringsinstitute.org/ Tessa Skiles, Outreach director info@floridaspringsinstitute.org Mission Statement: The mission of the Florida Springs Institute is to provide a focal point for improving the understanding of springs ecology and to foster the development of science-based education and management actions needed to restore and protect springs throughout Florida.

NOV 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

Silver Springs Alliance, Inc.

550B Midway Drive, Ocala, FL 34472 352.537.5499 www.silverspringsalliance.org John Dunn, vice president silverspringsalliance@gmail.com Mission Statement: Silver Springs Alliance’s focus is on restoration and prevention of the further deterioration of the Silver Springs ecosystem. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: Our current project is to help restore the natural functioning of Silver Springs and the Silver River by removal of the Kirkpatrick Dam.

Equine Florida Thoroughbred Charities, Inc.

801 S. W. 60th Ave., Ocala, FL 34474 352.629.2160 | www.ftboa.com Lonny Powell | lpowell@ftboa.com Mission Statement: Florida Thoroughbred Charities is administered by the Florida Thoroughbred Breeders and Owners Association with the mission to fund charitable organizations within the Thoroughbred industry, the City of Ocala, Marion County, and the State of Florida.

Horse Farms Forever

P.O. Box 5279, Ocala, FL 34478-5279 859.553.5510 | horsefarmsforever.com Sara Fennessy, director of community affairs sara.fennessy@horsefarmsforever.com. Mission: To inspire the conservation of horse farms through education and awareness so as to preserve natural pasture land focusing on horses and their habitats, and to protect

the soil and water on which they depend, while minimizing land use conflicts in Marion County.

Horse Protection Association of Florida

20690 NW 130th Ave., Micanopy, FL 32667 352.466.4366 | http://hpaf.org/ John Sturm | jsturm8@icloud.com Mission Statement: Equine rescue, rehabilitation, education and adoption services. Assistance to law enforcement and animal agencies with cruelty investigations and the care and placement of horses. Promote horse care and humane, natural methods of training for horses. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: Acquire a farm that is suitable for Horse Protection programs (rescue, training, adoption, sanctuary). Increase donations to $500.000 annually in order to help a greater number of horses in need in Marion County and to be able to accept horses at Marion County Animal Services needing placement.

Marion Therapeutic Riding Association (MTRA)

January 19th: Florida Mini Match February 24th: Fourth annual Golf Tournament March 1st: HITS Family Fun Day March 21st: Poker Run

Faith-Based Crossroads Alliance and Ministries

P.O. Box 1000, Silver Springs, FL 34480 352.209.8777 | www.crossroadsam.org Darlene Kelly crossroadsdarlene@gmail.com Mission Statement: Crossroads Alliance and Ministries is changing lives through compassion for people in need. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: CAM Honduras: CAM’s investment in this life-changing ministry involves developing campuses where a church, school, agriculture center, and trade and Bible school help those in the community rise out of their cycle of poverty. CAM is hopefully securing a school bus, or two, and will have this ministry in self-sustaining status by the end of 2019.

Faithfully Guided Health Center

40 SW First Ave., Ocala, FL, 34471 352.512.0631 fghealthcenter.com Ashlee Seek ashlee@faithfullyguided.com Mission Statement: Our mission is to provide faith-based, lifestyle health care.

FLIP FLOP Support Groups, Inc.

1629 NW Fourth St., Ocala, FL 34475 352.361.1206 | www.flipflopsg1.com Jacalyn Brown flipflopsg1@yahoo.com Mission Statement: Facilitating the success of families with loved ones in prison, families with loved ones out of prison, utilizing tools to show them that their challenge is unique but not uncommon and can be conquered through networking, self-improvement, and support in a spiritually-based setting. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: We are currently working towards a partnership with the Boys & Girls Club of Marion County to identify, assess, and provide aid for children of incarcerated individuals.

Frank DeLuca YMCA Family Center

3200 SE 17th St., Ocala, FL 34471 352.368.9622 www.ymcacentralflorida.com/y-locations/frank-deluca Kelli Garcia | kgarcia@cfymca.org Mission Statement: Our mission at the Frank DeLuca YMCA is to put Christian principles into practice through programs that build health, spirit, mind, and body for all.

| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | NOV 2019

Goal and objective of 2019–2020: We believe everyone deserves the YMCA. That’s why we offer financial assistance to individuals and families. In 2019, our goal is to raise $500,000 so that we can continue to support our neighbors in need.

Harvest International, Inc.

3711 NE 42nd Lane, Ocala, FL 34479 352.622.1818 | harvestinternational.org Pam Barrett pam@harvestinternational.org Mission Statement: Physically and spiritually touching lives. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: We would like to have 1,000 Buckets of Love ready for the 2019 Hurricane season.

Interfaith Emergency Services, Inc.

435 NW Second St., Ocala FL 34475 352.629.8868 | www.iesmarion.org Sonya Tyler | sonya@IESmarion.org Mission Statement: Interfaith Emergency Services is a community of faith, called by God to offer emergency assistance without judgment to all persons in Marion County. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: To double the number of people receiving free medical, dental, and mental health services while we continue to provide for those who struggle to have their basic needs.

Love INC of the Heart of Florida

15797 S. US Highway 441, Summerfield, FL 34491 352.245.8774 www.loveincheartofflorida.org Barbara Briggs hh@loveincheartofflorida.org Mission Statement: To mobilize local churches to transform lives and communities in the name of Christ. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: Expanding our mission of improving the overall health status of Marion County residents by providing quality primary medical, dental, behavioral, maternity, and pharmacy services to all residents, but in particular to those residents who would not otherwise be able to access the services due to financial limitations and/or lack of health insurance. Soon we will be moving many of our services to our new building providing the ability to see more patients as well as a one of a kind “One-Stop" Medical Home for patients.

My Life Counsel

24 NE 14th Ave., Ocala, Fl. 34470 352.362.3671 https://www.mylifecounsel.com/ Scott Inman, M.A., founder and executive director contact@mylifecounsel.com Mission Statement: Our mission is to

renew faith, hope, and intentionality in individuals, marriages and families.

Pay It Forward Outreach Corp

2203 SE 28 Place, Ocala, FL 34471 352.620.8545 http://www.payitforwardoutreach.com Rev. William Bender, president Bender6700@deccacable.com Mission Statement: To empower the family unit through educational growth and emotional support so the family will gain stability and self-worth through the Gospel. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: Our goal this year is to obtain a larger facility, around 10,000 square-feet. With 3,000 square-foot for conference and media rooms, we can expand our educational health and financial teaching programs. We believe education is the next step to freedom and breaking the generational assistance given through the government. Sustainable living not only through a sustainable and secure home but also through education.

Redeemer Christian School

155 SW 87th Place, Ocala, FL 34476 352.854.2999 http://www.redeemerlions.com Lisa Villella, office manager lisa.villella@redeemerlions.com Mission Statement: Our mission is to serve students through a rigorous, biblically integrated program of instruction, educating them to live in a community with grace and excellence.

Unlimited Discipleship Ministries, Inc.

4560 SE 120th St., Belleview, FL 34420 352.427.8607 | www.udministries.org Mike and Wendy Behar marriage@udministries.org Mission: Our mission is to assist men and women in the preparation, restoration, and growth in their marriage.

Wear Gloves, Inc.

1469 N. Magnolia Avenue, Unit B, Ocala, FL 34475 352.342.5487 | www.weargloves.org Ken Kebrdle | ken@weargloves.org Mission Statement: Serve those that God puts in our path, teach others to love like Jesus, and advocate for the most distressed in our community. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: We would like to open a bakery and be able to employ those in need to earn what they need.

Family and Community Services 911 Cell Phone Bank

626 S. Pine Ave., Ocala, FL 34471 352.512.0204 www.911cellphonebank.org Bob Mikler bmikler@911cellphonebank.org Mission Statement: Since 2004, the 911 Cell Phone Bank has provided more than 100,000 devices to vulnerable and needy residents in communities nationwide — all at no cost. Over the years we have given emergency cell phones to victims of abuse and senior citizens, tablets to women’s shelters, laptops to law enforcement and smartphones to teachers for use in high school app development courses.

Altrusa International Foundation of Ocala

P.O. Box 4228, Ocala, FL 34478 352.732.7020 Districtthree.altrusa.org/ocala Colleen M. Duris, president altrusaocala@gmail.com Mission Statement: Altrusa International strives to improve our community by providing services, developing leadership, fostering international understanding and encouraging fellowship through a network of dedicated volunteers. 2020 Signature event: Altrusa Trivia Night on March 7, 2020.

Creative Services, Inc.

1910 S. Pine Ave., Ocala, FL 34471 352.355.2928 | www.ocalacsi.com Chris Azar | volunteer@ocalacsi.com Mission Statement: Creative Services Inc. aids, comforts, and empowers victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: Creative Services, Inc. strives to meet the needs of those Marion County residents seeking safe and secure emergency shelter, as well as continuing to aid, comfort, and empower survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault along their personal journey of healing and recovery through counseling and advocacy. Creative Services, Inc. is honored to serve our community by continually expanding the capacity of our certified Domestic Violence Shelter, and providing survivors with advocates.

The Genesis 7 Project

352.512.1120 Robert & Xochi Smith www.facebook.com/thegenesis7project smith@thegenesis7project.com Mission Statement: To awaken the potential, purpose and promise of today's youth through community and spreading love.

Goal and Objective: Many of today's youth are living unsupervised, in shelters, on the streets or with parents/ guardians in crisis. The Genesis 7 Project is a faith based, 501(c)(3) that enables the community, churches, and local businesses to share Christ's love to these children, teens, and families in our community. Our program collaborates with parents, schools, churches and community leaders to thoroughly support today's youth and together help provide greater opportunities for them. Signature Events: Christmas Community celebration "The Gift". College Tour Fundraiser. Graduate Celebration. "The Center" Summer block party. "Stock The Rock."

Help Agency in the Forest

16890 E Highway 40 Silver Springs, FL 34488 (352) 625-1900 Mission Statement: Providing assistance to those in need in the Marion County area.

Ignite Community Counseling & Resource Center

3561 S. Pine Ave., Ocala, Florida 352.512.0090 facebook.com/IGNITINGHOPE4U/ ignitinghope07@gmail.com Mission: Mental health organization offering mental health services for trauma, addiction, anxiety, depression, spiritual issues and much more. We specialize in igniting hope and empowering lives.

Kiwanis FoundationOcala Chapter

PO BOX 682, Ocala, FL 34478 https://www.ocalakiwanis.org/ Nick Navetta KiwanisCampOcala@Gmail.com Mission Statement: The Kiwanis Club of Ocala is dedicated to serving the local community, especially children, through various service and fundraising projects. Our club has been in service to Ocala and the surrounding area for more than 90 years. We are part of KIWANIS INTERNATIONAL, an International organization serving local communities for over 100 years.

L.E.A.D.D Law Enforcement Agasint Destructive Decisions

https://www.facebook.com/helpLEADD/ Lynn Nicely | 904-826-7288 Mission Statement: To save the lives of our young people from distracted driving.

Ocala On Top of the World Lions Club

P.O. Box 772733, Ocala, FL 34474 352.425.6316 e-clubhouse.org/sites/ocalatow Estelle Michaelson otowlion@gmail.com Mission Statement: To empower volunteers to serve their communities, meet humanitarian needs, encourage peace, and promote international understanding through Lions Clubs. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: Establish Lions Quest, a social and emotional learning process in at least one school or other early learning center in Marion County.

Unity Family Community Center, Inc.

20030 NE 23rd PL, Williston, FL 32696 352.529.2030 | www.ufccflorida.org Keila Legall | klegallufcc@outlook.com Mission Statement: To improve the quality of life of families and individuals by providing services and opportunities designed to create a culture of C.A.R.E. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: Our goal for 2019–2020 is to implement an after-school program (S.W.A.G. 2.0) at no cost in Marion County. Also, to increase our capacity, UFCC is developing a capital campaign to construct an administration building with an estimated cost of $250,000.

NOV 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

United Way of Marion County

1401 NE 2nd St., Ocala FL 34470 352.732.9696 | www.uwmc.org Scot Quintel | squintel@uwmc.org Mission Statement: Uniting local resources to help our neighbors. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: United Way of Marion County and its partners are working to build a prosperous community by focusing our efforts on three key goals by 2022: First, increase the early childhood literacy rate by 10 percent. Second, help an additional 600 individuals achieve financial stability. Third, provide permanent housing for 375 individuals. Signature Event:2020 Community Care Gala on January 30, 2020 at On Top of the World, Circle Square Commons. Join United Way “Under The Big Top” for an unforgettable evening of entertainment, upscale American fare, and sideshow acts that will amaze and astound! It’s the greatest show in Marion County! Proceeds will support United Way’s Community Care Fund. Tickets are $100. For more details visit https://www.uwmc. org/gala.

Xtreme SOULutions

P.O. Box 5487, Ocala, FL 34478 352.694.4888 | xtremesoulutions.org Shirley Beattie info@xtremesoulutions.com Mission: We empower people to create a future for themselves and their children, building a strong community with moral values, financial stability, and hope for generations to come. We are committed to partnerships that will lead the way in successfully building up those who are prepared to do their part in positive growth and development and to help break the cycle of government welfare assistance and poverty.

Foundations Believe in Santa Foundation, Inc.

11150 N. Williams St., Suite 108, Dunnellon, FL 34432 561.509.5776 Ext. 1225 www.believeinsanta.com Keith Carson Keith@BelieveInSanta.com Mission Statement: The Believe in Santa Foundation is a public service all-volunteer organization focused on improving life. Without any expectation of compensation, the foundation is dedicated to serving all children in need. We put people before profits, regardless of race, creed, color, or sexual orientation. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: We are in the planning stages of building a North Pole in this area to serve special needs, terminally ill, and other children in need. It will be open year-round.

| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | NOV 2019

College of Central Florida Foundation, Inc.

3001 SW College Road, Ocala, FL 34474 352.873.5808 www.cf.edu/foundation Dawn Gonsalves | gonsalvd@cf.edu Mission Statement: The College of Central Florida Foundation’s mission is to identify, solicit, and acquire restricted and unrestricted resources to support the college in providing educational services to Citrus, Levy, and Marion Counties. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: “Reaching Higher” Campaign—This is a $20 million comprehensive campaign to raise resources for: Health Sciences, scholarships, Appleton Museum of Art, and Agri-business and Equine programs at CF.

Community Foundation for Ocala Marion County

324 SE 24th St. Ocala, FL 34471 352.622.5020 www.ocalafoundation.org Lauren Deiorio lauren@ocalafoundation.org Mission Statement: Connecting the charitable interests of the donor to build a better community. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: The Community Foundation is working towards the establishment of a Nonprofit Resource Center.

Marion County Sheriff’s Office Foundation

P.O. Box 1987, Ocala FL 34478 352.368.3582 www.marionso.com/mcso-foundation Gary Skogsbergh Sr., president gskogsberghsr@gmail.com Mission Statement: We pledge to serve as a nonprofit organization for the Marion County Sheriff’s Office by engaging in fundraising activities to support community programs, the Sheriff’s Office budget, and volunteer functions.

Ocala Lions Club Charities Foundation

P.O. Box 801, Ocala, FL 34476 352.854.6715 | www.OcalaLionsClub.org Audrey Hall pdgaudrey@ocalalionsclub.org Mission Statement: The Ocala Lions Club is a collegial, congenial group, dedicated to the proposition that collectively we can do more than we can as individuals. Our focus is on the preservation and enhancement of sight and hearing. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: Our goal is to be able to expand our outreach and provide services to even more people in need. Signature Event: The Ocala Lions Club Jerry Cullison Memorial Golf Tournament, which is played at Ocala Golf Club on the first Saturday of December every year, which is December 7th this year. This will be our 26th annual tournament. It is limited to 31 foursomes because we

Habitat for Humanity of Marion County, Inc. have hole-in-one prizes on every par 3, which include a car, a boat, a Harley Davidson motorcycle, and $10,000. We provide coffee and doughnuts, drinks and lunch, and have door prizes including a big screen TV.

Ocala Rotary Foundation, Inc

P.O. Box 104., Ocala FL 34478 352.732.7080 | Ocalarotaryclub.com Jonathan Dean jondean@deananddean.net Mission Statement: To receive and administer funds for scientific, education, and charitable purposes.

QuitDoc Foundation

807 B SW Third Ave., Ocala, FL 34471 352.359.5383 | www.quitdoc.com Barry Hummel | BHummel@quitdoc.com Mission Statement: To improve overall community health and wellness by reducing the number of deaths in the United States from tobacco addiction and curtailing tobacco use within youth and adult populations through research, education, and prevention. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: We are currently working on a youth online cessation support video series on tobacco health and tobacco-free policies for county parks.

Homelessness /Poverty Brother’s Keeper (Blessed Trinity Catholic Church) 320 NW 10th St., Ocala 34475 Office 352.622.3846 Thrift Store 352.732.7988 Soup Kitchen 352.789.8139 www.bkocala.org Jason Halstead | jason@bkocala.org Mission Statement: Brother’s Keeper, in cooperation with the pastor of Blessed Trinity Catholic Church and community agencies, is committed to assist the poor and needy of Marion County and other areas without regard to race, creed, or ethnic origin.

Deliverance Outreach Ministries 821 NE 36th Terrace, Suite 10, Ocala, FL 34470 352.209.8777 | www.domofocala.org Felicia Miller | info@domofocala.org Mission Statement: Our mission is to help people with their needs and conduct humanitarian outreach. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: To continue to help as many non-insured and homeless citizens as possible.

P.O. Box 5578, Ocala, FL 34478 352.351.4663 | www.habitatocala.org Tori Arens | tarens@habitatocala.org Mission Statement: Putting God’s love into action in Marion County by strengthening communities, building hope, and providing dignified housing solutions through partnership and empowerment. Signature Events: Seventh Annual Habitat Ocala Strawberry Festival on March 7th, 2020. Featuring live music, food and drinks, vendors, pet contest, car show, pie eating, kid zones and strawberries! Event details: https://habitatocala.org/strawberry-festival. Also, the Fourth Annual Strawberry Jam 5K, winding through beautiful Ocala neighborhoods. Details: https://habitatocala.org/strawberryjam5k. Then don’t miss Hookin’ for Habitat Fishing Tournament on March 14th, 2020. For more information: https://habitatocala. org/fishing-tournament.

Helping Hands Foundation, Inc. 101 NE 16th Avenue Ocala, FL 34470 Telephone (352) 732-4464 www.helpinghandsocala.org Mission: Helping Hands is a nonprofit charity, serving the people of Ocala/ Marion County. It was established to provide shelter and related assistance for the homeless, and others who are in difficult situations. Besides shelter, we assist our residents with jobs, food, clothes, medical, dental, transportation, counseling, Bible study and fellowship, and other needed services.

Marion County Homeless Council, Inc.

108 N. Magnolia Ave., Suite 202, Ocala, FL 34475 352.732.1369 | www.mchcfl.org Angela Juaristic | angela@mchcfl.org Mission Statement: Eliminate homelessness in Marion County by providing housing assistance while serving as the Continuum of Care (CoC) lead agency. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: In 2019–2020, we hope to increase the number of families that remain housed through prevention. We welcome donations including monetary (which is used to pay for items not covered by grants such as baby formula, work boots, uniforms, bus passes to work, and basic necessities) as well as donations of sunscreen, hats, mosquito repellant, rain ponchos, zip lock baggies or pencil cases to product documents and small hygiene products. Every item donated is distributed to homeless individuals and families encountered and needing protection from the Florida elements.

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Ocala Housing Authority

1629 NW Fourth St., Ocala FL 34478 352.369.2636 | www.ocalahousing.org James Haynes jhaynes@ocalahousing.org Mission Statement: The Ocala Housing Authority is committed to providing and expanding safe, decent, and sanitary housing in the most efficient manner, to the residents of Marion county; to provide economic opportunities and housing free from illegal discrimination; and to build better neighborhoods by providing comprehensive opportunities for our residents through partnerships and networking within our community. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: We are working towards increasing our rental housing stock and expanding homeownership opportunities for low-income families.

Project Hope of Marion County

830 NE 28 St., Ocala FL 34470 352.624.4673 www.projecthopeocala.org Mike Amsden mamsden@projecthopeocala.org Mission Statement: Our mission is to support homeless families in Marion County progress out of homelessness by providing transitional housing as well as programs that encourage self-sufficiency. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: Expansion of units available for transitional housing.

Open Arms Village, Inc.

1839 NE Eight Road, Ocala, Fl. 34470 352.304.6229 openarmsvillageocala.org Michael Patrick Smith mps.oavcasemanager@gmail.com Mission Statement: Open Arms Village exists to create a safe and healthy residential community that treats homeless men with dignity. We provide a full array of programs and services that men can use to move themselves towards independence. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: With our continuing success, we are working to create a greater community awareness! Many of our men are available to speak with your church, club, or civic organization. The stories are amazing and will certainly encourage needed growth of our donor base.

The Salvation Army Marion County

2901 NE 14th St Ocala Florida 34470 www.salvationarmyflorida.org 352-629-2004 Mission Statement: The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian Church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.

| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | NOV 2019

Saving Mercy

3601 W. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala, FL, 34475 352.629.6902 | www.savingmercy.org Mark Lindsay | Mark@SavingMercy.org Mission Statement: We are hope and help for the homeless in Marion County. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: The Mercy Inn & RV Park will be working to develop and provide affordable housing options, case management, and wraparound support services for the homeless at our newly acquired property at 3601 West Silver Springs Blvd (formerly the Motor Inns & RV Park).

Institutes Florida Institute for Human & Machine Cognition (IHMC)

15 SE Osceola Ave., Ocala, FL 34471 352.387.3050 www.ihmc.us Laurie Zink | lzink@ihmc.us Mission Statement: The Institute for Human & Machine Cognition (IHMC) pioneers technologies aimed at leveraging and extending human capabilities. IHMC faculty and staff collaborate extensively with industry and government to develop science and technology that can be enabled with respect to society's broader goals. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: Continuing to offer our evening lecture series to the community at large and to expand our Science Saturday and Robotics Camp scholarship programs.

Public Policy Institute of Marion County, Inc.

The Enterprise Center, 3001 SW College Rd, Suite 202, Ocala, FL 34474 352.854.2322 ext. 1457 www.ppiofmarioncounty.org Toni James | tonijames@cox.net Mission Statement: To give the community a sense of hope and optimism by creating a broad base of community involvement in identifying, researching, and establishing dialogue on community-wide issues and then in recommending and helping to implement timely solutions. Goal/objective 2020: The goal for 2020 is to run a study on all the issues related to healthy children — physical, mental, social, and educational.

Libraries/ Literacy Early Learning Coalition of Marion County

2300 SW 17th Rd Ocala, FL 34471 352.369.2315 | www.elc-marion.org Elizabeth Denola edeolca@elc-marion.org

Mission Statement: To provide leadership and foster partnerships to optimize a quality early-learning environment for our children through childcare, Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten (VPK), and parent education. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: In the fiscal year 2019–2020, the Coalition team will be implementing the Help Me Grow program in Marion County. This program helps to identify children in need of developmental, behavioral, or learning support, and connects them with community-based services at no cost. Services include screenings, information, resources and materials, referrals, and family networking opportunities. Two key partners are United Way’s 2-1-1 and Healthy Start of North Central Florida.

Friends of the Forest Public Library, Inc.

905 S. Hwy, County Road 314 A, Ocklawaha, FL 32179 352.438.2540 www.marioncountyfl.org/libraryinfo David Freudenburg david.freudenburg@marioncountyfl.org Mission Statement: The ongoing purpose of the Friends of the Forest Public Library to promote and develop the Forest Public Library facilities in Forest Corners and Marion County by enhancing community awareness, understanding, and use of the library in cooperation with the Library Board and the Library Director through supplemental financial assistance and direct voluntary support. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: Promoting new members for bringing fresh ideas and talents, with hands-on abilities to continue to support the Forest community and library.

Friends of Freedom Public Library, Inc.

5870 SW 95th St., Ocala, FL 34476 352.438.2580 www.friendsoffreedompubliclibrary. shutterfly.com | Susan Sullivan sullivansayles@yahoo.com Mission Statement: To cooperate with and support the Freedom Public Library in the development and promotion of library services, resources, and facilities for the community and to encourage and receive gifts, endowments, and bequests to the library to provide supplemental financial assistance. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: Creating awareness of the Freedom Friends’ work across the library’s service area.

Friends of the Marion Oaks Public Library, Inc. (FOTMOPL)

294 Marion Oaks Lane, Ocala, FL 34473 352.438.2575 www.marioncountyfl.org/departments-agencies/departments-o-z/ public-library-system Irma McNeal, vice president

artmcneal@embarqmail.com Mission Statement: The mission of the FOTMOPL is to promote the perpetual existence of the library by supporting it and cooperating in the development of services, resources, and facilities of the community. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: Completion of library refurbishing and continued support of library in all its functions.

Friends of the Ocala Public Library

2720 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala, FL 34470 352.368.4591 www.FriendsoftheOcalaLibrary.org Bridget Kiefer, vice president folbookmarketocala@gmail.com Mission Statement: To promote and develop the public library in Ocala by enhancing community awareness, understanding, and use of the library in cooperation with the library director through supplemental financial assistance and voluntary support.

Marion County Literacy Council

120 SW Fifth St., Ocala, FL 34471 352.690.7323 | www.marionliteracy.org Yamila Acosta yamila@marionliteracy.org Mission Statement: All adult citizens of Marion County should have a resource available to help them improve their literacy skills. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: We are working towards more community partnerships to offer our programs to more potential students as well as growing our correctional institution programs, public school programs, and working with probation and parole.

The Friends of the Fort McCoy Public Library

14660 NE Highway 315, Fort McCoy, FL 32134 | 352.438.2560 Mary L. Thomas fortmccoyfol@gmail.com Mission Statement: This corporation was formed for the advancement of education by distributing its funds for the promotion and development of the public library facilities in the city of Fort McCoy, Florida, as well as to encourage the use of such facilities. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: We hope to secure grant funds to renovate our auditorium. (Our building was once used as a school.) If successful, we will have state-of-the-art equipment for presentations, which will make the library a much-needed venue for local clubs and classes. Event: This past year the Friends of the Fort McCoy Library received a $7000 grant from Clay Electric and we purchased a wireless projector and large screen so community organizations will be able to use the library for meetings and presentations. We’re hosting a Community Celebration and Block Party

At VOCAL our mission is to solve the homeless pet problem through prevention, community outreach, adoption and collaboration.

Tickets on sale at VocalForPets.org 352/289/0800

at the library on November 2 from 11 a.m.–2 p.m. There will be free food, fun for kids, lots of organizations with information, and door prizes.

Local Friends of the Christmas Parade

5184 SE 20th St., Ocala, FL 34480 352.624.2022 www.ocalachristmasparade.org William Taylor william@combinedinsuranceservices.com Mission Statement: To support the Ocala Christmas Parade tradition for over 60 years. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: We are working each year to make the event more enjoyable for the community.

Ocala Main Street

405 SE Osceola Ave. Ocala, Fl 34471 352.421.0047 https://ocalamainstreet.com/ Jessica Marr, executive director jessica@ocalamainstreet.com Mission: To create a thriving, unique, and livable downtown that enriches the community, embraces history, celebrates the arts, and promotes quality events to instill a sense of place in our community.

Health and Medicine American Heart Association

1202 SW 17th St., #201-167, Ocala, FL 34471 352.895.2969 Kristina Donohue, regional director of Marion County Mission: To be a relentless force for longer, healthier lives. Signature Event: Marion County Heart Walk on September 2020. Go Red for Women on March 5, 2020 at Circle Square Cultural Center.

Cancer Alliance

2020 SE 17th St. Ocala, FL 34471 352.732.0277 www.canceralliancemc.org/ Linda Koontz, director canceralliancemarioncounty@gmail.com Mission: Founded by H.U.G.S. Charities because Marion County needed a collective cancer care community that could collaborate, communicate, and educate together for the greatest impact.

Community Cancer Education, Inc., DBA 21st Century C.A.R.E. 2234 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers, FL 33907 239.936.3756 www.21stcenturycare.org

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Liz Luna | info@21stcenturycare.org Mission Statement: Provide cancer education at the community level to patients, cancer care providers, and the general public; support cancer research and provide financial assistance to cancer patients in need. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: We are planning a skin cancer screening in the coming year and are partnering with local retailers nationally to raise funds.

Estella Byrd Whitman Wellness & Community Resource Center

819 NW Seventh St. Ocala, FL 34475 352.825.2226 www.estellawellness.com Pamela Lewin, M.D. paroma62@hotmail.com Mission Statement: To provide accessible preventative primary care, medical, and dental services to the underserved and uninsured residents of Tucker Hill in the 34475 postal area, without regard to age, race, gender identity, disability, religion, or ability to pay. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: We would like to become accredited to see medical, dental, and mental health patients in our facility.

Heart of Florida Health Center

203 E. Silver Springs Blvd., #101, Ocala, FL 34470 352.877.7142 | www.myhfhc.org Heather James heather.james@myhfhc.org Mission Statement: Our mission is to improve the overall health status of Marion County residents by providing quality primary medical, dental, and mental health services to all residents. In particular, to those residents who have financial and insurance limitations. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: Expanding our mission of improving the overall health status of Marion County residents by providing quality primary medical, dental, behavioral, maternity, and pharmacy services to all residents, but in particular to those residents who would not otherwise be able to access the services due to financial limitations and/or lack of health insurance. Soon we will be moving many of our services to our new building providing the ability to see more patients as well as a one of a kind “OneStop" Medical Home for patients.

H.U.G.S. Charities

P.O. Box 34, Ocala, FL 34478 www.hugscharities.org Rhoda Walkup | rwalkup@rboi.com Mission Statement: The H.U.G.S. organization encourages heartfelt unconditional giving to benefit cancer patients and the fight against cancer through the creation and support of its community cancer alliance. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: We hope to continue helping meet the non-medical needs of those facing

cancer in Marion County and equipping them to get to treatment, nourishment, and shelter. Signature Event: A silent auction on March 26, 2020 honoring the late David Tuck. Tickets and donations can be made at www.hugscharities.org.

March of Dimes

P.O. Box 3153, Harlan, IA 51593-0344 352.502.5752 www.marchofdimes.org Tammy Dygert, executive director tdygert@marchofdimes.org Mission Statement: March of Dimes leads the fight for the health of all moms and babies. Signature Event: Our 2020 Marion County March for Babies walk event is Saturday, April 25 at the Baseline Trailhead. This year marks the 50th anniversary of our walk events (and the 82nd anniversary of March of Dimes as an organization).

Michelle-O-Gram

21765 SW 106 Lane Road, Dunnellon, FL 34431 352.469.6006 | www.michelleogram.com Justin Lamb, Advanced Imaging Ocala Health justin.lamb@hcahealthcare.com Mission Statement: The MichelleO-Gram exists to provide breast imaging services for the uninsured and underinsured women and men in our community. We are celebrating our 10th Anniversary and are proud to have served nearly 1500 individuals, both women and men. Men do get breast cancer. The healthcare situation continues to change, referrals come to the Michelle-O-Gram via physician offices, free clinics, Heart of FL, American Cancer Society, Marion County Health Department as well as self referrals. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: We hope to increase exposure in the community — after seven years we continually learn of those who have never heard of the Michelle-O-Gram.

AdventHealth Auxiliary, Inc.

1500 SW First Ave. Ocala, Florida 352.671.2153 www.munroeauxiliary.com John Christman, auxiliary president Jennifer Poole Wood, director Jennifer.poole-wood@adventhealth.com Mission Statement: As a nonprofit, 501(c)(3) service organization, the AdventHealth Auxiliary, Inc. is committed to supporting good health in our community. We actively sponsor programs and services which enhance the lives of our community residents in their homes and in the hospital. Utilizing the skills and dedication of volunteers and staff, the Healthy Home program provides the elderly patient after a hospital discharge, non-clinical services such as food, well-check telephone

calls, transportation to their doctor and safe home modifications. These social determinants of health, when met, assist in providing for a healing home environment for our elderly neighbors. All services are provided free of charge. The revenue from the AdventHealth Hospital Gift Shop funds this nationally recognized volunteer program.

NAMI Marion County, Inc.

P.O. Box 5753, Ocala, FL 34478-5753 352.368.2405 | www.namiocala.org Diana Williams | ocaladiana@aol.com Mission Statement: Educate, support, and advocate for people diagnosed with mental illness and their family and friends. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: NAMI Marion County will be initiating mental wellness screenings in outlying areas of Marion County to enable people to identify if they have a problem; we will also provide telehealth counseling for those people via Meridian Behavioral Health Services. In addition, NAMI Marion County is working with the Marion County Mental Wellness Coalition to develop a plan to have a clubhouse-type of walk-in center for referred people with mental illness.

Ocala Royal Dames for Cancer Research, Inc.

P.O. Box 6163, Ocala, FL 34478 352.622.7363 www.ocalaroyaldames.org Joan Audette Ocalaroyaldames@gmail.com Mission Statement: To ensure strong local and regional effort in the fight against cancer through funding research and education.

Three Angels Clinic

4817 NE Second Loop, Bldg. B, Ocala FL, 34470 | 352.509.6350 https://threeangelsclinic.org Dr. Kevin Barret, executive director/trustee patientcare@threeangelsclinic.org Mission: A private, independent, faithbased clinic priding itself on having a wonderful selection of experienced and caring medical professionals and volunteers dedicated to serving the sick in our community. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: For 2019–2020, we hope to increase community ownership through individual financial support and donations, increase the number of Marion County and Ocala residents served who have no medical provider or are uninsured, and obtain at least one hospital support for select patients to get labs, diagnostics, and pharmacy services.

Senior Care Hawthorne Village Retirement Community

4100 SW 33rd Ave Ocala FL 34474 352-237-7776 Mission Statement: Providing state-ofthe-art treatment with the benefits of a not-for-profit provider. Our priority is to ensure every resident is treated with respect, love, and the best possible care available.

Hospice of Marion County

3231 SW 34th Ave., Ocala, FL 34474 352.873.7400 www.hospiceofmarion.com Cindy Moody cmoody@hospiceofmarion.com Mission Statement: We provide exceptional compassionate end-of-life care to our community. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: Memorial Park for our Estelle’s and Monarch Center Campus: Set in the serene setting between Estelle’s House and the Monarch Center for Hope and

Healing, the Memorial Park offers peaceful respite for meditation, remembrance, and celebration. This campus has recently been named the Helen “Mimi” Walker Campus. Our landscaped park features red brick paving stones and a granite memorial wall. Both may be engraved in memory or in honor of a loved one. The Veterans Circle of Honor is a tribute to either living or departed veterans who have served our great country. A brick paving stone may be engraved with an honoree’s name, branch of service, and dates of service. There are also five individual Branch of Service Monuments available for a name and military rank to be engraved. Signature Events: November is Hospice Month—Join us for two veterans events: Nov. 1 we’re hosting nationally known author and nurse Deborah Grassman who’ll give a presentation in the Elliott Center from 8:30–10:00 a.m.; she’ll share her unique experiences caring for veterans over her 30-year career with the Department of Veterans Affairs. On Nov. 16, at the Memorial Park, from 10:00–11:30 a.m., Hospice of Marion County will hold a Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans ceremony with local dignitaries, high school choir, and color guard in attendance. All events are open to the public at no charge.

Marion Senior Services

1101 SW 20th Court, Ocala, FL 34471 352.620.3501 www.marionseniorservices. org Cassandra Jackson CJackson@marionseniorservices.org Mission Statement: Assisting the elderly, disabled, and disadvantaged residents of Marion County to maintain independent living status. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: Gaining additional financial and volunteer support for In-Home Support services. We have over 800 seniors requesting additional support with their daily living activities and if we could address their needs, we could avoid those seniors becoming at risk for further health issues.

Sports Special Olympics Florida, Inc.

2800 S.E. Maricamp Road, Building #2, Ocala, FL 34471 | 352.988.7998

specialolympicsflorida.org/marion Sandy Hopkins, sports director of Marion County marionsports@sofl.org Mission Statement: The mission of Special Olympics is to provide year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities, giving them continuing opportunities for physical fitness. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: For 2019, our goal is to integrate health initiatives into schools, increase healthy athletes’ programs and see a wider influence within Marion County and the rest of Florida. We also have a newly added Young Athletes program for kids between the ages of two and seven.

Veterans Ocala Blue Star Mothers

8470A SW 92nd Lane, Ocala, FL 34481 843.504.0032 www.bluestarmothers.org Tina Shumway tinacliff1992@yahoo.com Mission Statement: Our mission is to support our active duty military, our veterans, and the families of the fallen. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: Provide items for veterans who receive services through the Gainesville VA Hospital in the form of new clothes and shoes as well as flip flops and other items requested by the hospital to help veterans who are going into transitional housing, i.e., dishes.

Veterans Helping Veterans USA., Inc.

2730 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Suite 200, Ocala, FL 34470 352.433.2320 | www.vhvusa.org Hank Whittier vetshelpingvets@vhvusa.org Mission Statement: To assist veterans and their families who need social services and information to improve their lives and to assist them in maintaining their independence. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: Training and employment for veterans.

Women’s Charities GFWC Woman’s Club of Ocala, Inc. P.O. Box 4444, Ocala, FL 34478 352.687.1211 www.GFWC.org Sonia Palmer, president groundhoglady2@yahoo.com Mission Statement: Working together to strengthen our community and enhance the lives of others through community service.

Goal and objective of 2019–2020: Our goals for the coming year are two-fold: increase membership and fundraising. These would enable our club members to volunteer in more areas of need in the county and also to have more funds available for schools and other charitable organizations.

Our Hearts Align

179 NE 51st St., Ocala, FL 34479 352.274.4214 www.ourheartsalign.org Kara Mangum ourheartsalign@gmail.com Mission Statement: To provide physical and emotional comfort to moms, and their family, during and after a pregnancy loss. We provide this support through physical resources, personal support, prayer, and love. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: In the next year, we would like to develop additional resources to support the entire family unit during the loss of a baby. We want to not only support the mom but the father and siblings as well. We hope to do this by developing new books, print and digital resources, and community events.

PACE Center for Girls

328 NE First Ave., Suite 500, Ocala, FL 34470 | 352.369.0571 www.pacecenter.org/locations/marion Kim Vollmer Smith kimberly.vollmer@pacecenter.org Mission Statement: PACE provides all girls and young women an opportunity for a better future through education, counseling, training, and advocacy. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: Looking to procure the facility we are currently leasing.

Philanthropic Educational Organization (P.E.O.)

9145 SW 70th Loop, Ocala, FL 34481 352.804.9924 www.peointernational.org Christy Cathcart cathcart@telebyte.com Mission Statement: P.E.O. is a philanthropic organization where women celebrate the advancement of women; educate women through scholarships, grants, loans and stewardship of Cottey College; and motivate each other to achieve their highest aspirations. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: We continually raise money to support all of our funds that support women’s educational goals.

Women Veterans In Crisis (WVIC)

2730 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Suite 2006, Ocala, Florida 34470 352.533.2789 | WVICrisis.org Mitchell Coulton, executive director CommunityOutreach@WVICrisis.org Mission Statement: First in the nation to

NOV 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

expand community-based resources to provide comprehensive mental health and social services to women veterans and their children, doing so with compassion, respect, excellence and integrity. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: WVIC’s current project is the establishment of a facility with 120 apartment-style rooms together with 100 transitional and permanent supported housing cabins (1- and 2-bedroom homes) on a 111-acre campus. On-site capacity will be roughly 180 women and 40 dependent children. The treatment campus is designed to mirror an Ocala horse farm. This approach reflects the movement away from institutional-looking facilities and takes advantage of Ocala’s beautiful rolling hills and pleasant climate. We are currently working with congress to provide legislation which will bring this project to fruition. To donate to this cause, please visit our website at https://www.wvicrisis.org.

Youth Arnette House, Inc.

2310 NE 24th St., Ocala, FL 34470 352.622.4432 | www.arnettehouse.org JP Leard | Jleard@arnettehouse.org Mission Statement: To provide safe and effective programs to strengthen youth and families. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: We are currently working on building the Sara Arnette Aquatic Center. We have completed stage one and are looking forward to starting stage two.

The Boys & Girls Club of Marion County

800 SW 12th Ave., Ocala, FL 34471 352.690.7545 | www.bgcofmarion.com Aaron McGlon amcglon@bgcofmarion.com Mission Statement: To enable all young people, especially those who need it the most, to become caring, productive, responsible citizens. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: World Class Club Experience. We want every young person to want to be a member of the club and every parent to want their kids to be members.

Children’s Home Society of Florida

226 NE Sanchez Ave., Ocala, FL 34470 352.732.1412 | www.chsfl.org Christy Gibbons, program director christy.gibbons@chsfl.org Mission Statement: Building bridges to success for children. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: Expansion of the Mid-Florida Community Counseling Program in Marion County to include tele-health services which will alleviate delay to services and provide the opportunity to serve more individuals.

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Covenant Children’s Home

11350 N. Covenant Path, Dunnellon, FL 34434 352.489.2565 | www.cchfl.org Debbie Davis deborah@covenantchildrenshome.org Mission Statement: Covenant Children’s Home exists to provide children a home where a Christ-centered environment promotes health, hope, healing, and a brighter future in the lives of children who need the care and support of a loving community. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: We are in the process of breaking ground on our second home, with the goal of building a total of five homes on our 24-acre campus.

Episcopal Children’s Services

8443 Baymeadow Road, Suite 1, Jacksonville, FL 32256 904.726.1500 | www.ecs4kids.org Debbie Moore dmoore@ecs4kids.org

Mission Statement: Creating opportunities for children to reach their full potential. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: Male Involvement Initiative — ECS is continuously striving to increase male involvement for our children through, not only our parents, but father figures and positive role models within our community. They are important influences on the school readiness of children and the well-being of families, overall. This initiative requires a lot of community involvement to be successful.

Florida Kids Helping Kids

3560 SE 137th Lane, Summerfield, FL 34491 | 352.347.0883 www.florida-kids-helping-kids.com Gerri Gerthe | floridakhk@gmail.com Mission Statement: Kids Helping Kids, with the aid of adults, to become better citizens by teaching each other how to show compassion by helping other kids and our community in which we serve. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: We need volunteers for the Marion County Fair which will be April 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th located at the Marion Military Academy off of Baseline.

Francis Marion Military Academy, Inc.

5895 SE 83rd St., Ocala, FL 34472 352.245.6600 www.marionmilitaryacademy.org Charles deMenzes charlie@altfo.com Mission Statement: Educate high school

students in leadership, government, and business. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: Increase our student population in college.

Hands of Mercy Everywhere

6017 SE Robinson Road, Belleview, FL 34420 352.347.4663 www.handsofmercyeverywhere.org Diane V. Schofield diane@handsofmercyeverywhere.org Mission Statement: To provide a Christian-based residential group home for teenage girls and pregnant or parenting teens in the foster care system. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: Continued fundraising for the Grace House major remodel and the development of a vocational program for Independent Living Services and Training.

Junior Achievement (JA)

319 SE Broadway St., Ocala FL 34471 352.727.0178 | www.jamarion.org Kristin Schreiner kristin.schreiner@ja.org Mission Statement: To inspire and prepare young people to succeed in a global economy. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: JA BizTown Mobile for 5th-grade students would combine in-class learning with a day-long visit to a simulated town. This popular program allows elementary school students to operate banks, manage restaurants, write checks, and vote for mayor. The program would help Marion County students connect the dots between what they learn in school and the real world. Signature Event: The annual Celebrate Junior Achievement Breakfast – Impact the Future is an opportunity to learn about the work that Junior Achievement is doing in our own community, see and hear from some of the kids who have directly benefited from JA programs, and learn about our newest program, JA BizTown.

Kids Central, Inc.

901 Industrial Drive, Suite 200, Wildwood, FL 34785 352.387.3419 www.kidscentralinc.org Debra Wise-Velez debra.wisevelez@kidscentralinc.org Mission Statement: Protecting children, supporting families, and engaging communities. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: Kids Central continuously works on keeping children from coming into the foster care system. Kids Central provides evidenced-based services to work in-home with parents who had a call to the child abuse hotline. These services assist in strengthening families and eliminating risks that brought them to the attention of the child abuse hotline.

Celebrating 20 years of providing quality early learning services and resources to Marion County families and children $100 will buy: •

90 children’s books

•

7-1/2 days of childcare

•

5 booster car seats

•

38 meals at a parent education workshop

•

Paper and supplies for a childcare classroom for more than 2 months

Your investment will share in our passion to provide every Marion County child with a good beginning.

Early Learning Coalition of Marion County 2300 SW 17th Road, Ocala, FL 34471 352-369-2315 Website: www.elc-marion.org

Facebook: elcofmarion

Kimberly’s Center for Child Protection

2800 NE 14th St., Ocala, FL 34471 352.873.4739 www.kimberlyscenter.org Davis Dinkins davis@dinkinsengineering.com Mission Statement: Our community working together to protect, serve, and advocate for abused and neglected children. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: Kimberly’s Center will work towards raising funds sustaining our new Trauma Intervention Program for its second year in 2019 — $87,000. In addition, we will move forward on planning stages for installing a playground on our property. Lastly, we will continue to educate the community on child abuse prevention and awareness.

Marion County Children’s Alliance

3482 NW 10th St., Ocala, FL 34475 352.438.5990 www.mcchildrensalliance.org Monica Bryant Monica@breakthesilenceonviolence.org Mission Statement: To improve the lives of children in Marion County by providing resources that enable nonprofit organizations serving these children to operate more efficiently by providing safe and effective services of the highest quality. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: The Department of Children and Families verified 41 babies out of 154 that were exposed to substance abuse at birth. The Marion County Heroin and Opioid Task Force will be addressing this issue by collaborating with local, state, and regional agencies who serve pregnant moms and agencies that focus on family planning.

Marion County Junior Golf, Inc. 3130 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala, FL 34470 352.362.2258 TheFirstTeeGreaterOcala.org Jason Lenhart jlenhart@ocalagolfclub.com Mission Statement: We are organized to impact the lives of young people by providing learning facilities and educational programs that provide character development, instill life-enhancing values, and promote healthy choices through the game of golf. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: Continuing to provide a safe environment in which young people can excel in learning, experiencing life, and being involved in a sport that could result in educational advancements as they near the college time frame.

Project LIFT (Life Initiative For Teens) Dunnellon

20540 E. Pennsylvania Ave., D unnellon, FL 34432 352.465.9009 | www.projectliftmc.com Bob Zaccheo, founder and executive

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director info@projectliftmc.com Mission Statement: Dedicated to improving the lives of at-risk teens and their families through substance abuse treatment, mental health counseling, mentoring, and vocational skills training.

Southeastern Youth Fair

2232 NE Jacksonville Road, Ocala, FL 34470 352.629.1255 | https://seyfair.com Sara LeFils, executive director seyfair@gmail.com Mission Statement: To recognize the outstanding youth of Marion County through the Southeastern Youth Fair as a showcase for competition, exhibition, enhanced educational opportunities, and to promote self-esteem, personal growth, and development while aiding in the education of the Citizens of Marion County regarding the importance of agriculture and related industries in our area. Signature event 2020: Southeastern Youth Fair 2020, February 21-29th.

The Pearl Project

625 NE 12th Ave., Ocala, FL 34470 352.405.5005 www.thepearlprojectcf.org Beth Willis beth@thepearlprojectcf.org Joy Zedler, executive director joy@thepearlproject.org Mission Statement: To help children from hard places discover that they are precious. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: The Pearl Project’s goals are building a trauma informed community. We do this by working with foster, adoptive, and kinship families, as well as biological families. The Pearl Project has recently begun facilitating the study, “Making Sense of Your (Past) Worth” both in office, as well as in the Marion County Jail as part of the WEST program. We

look forward to continuing this work in Lowell Correctional Facility. This is a great opportunity for anyone who needs to come to terms with previous hurt. Signature Events: The Pearl Project hosts a caregiver training in Trust Based Relational Intervention each month on second Fridays at Ocala Police Department. These trainings are scheduled throughout 2020. The Pearl Project hosts a twice monthly support group at the Frank DeLuca YMCA for foster, adoptive and kinship families. This group meets twice a month, on Sundays from 2–4, child care is provided. Each spring, The Pearl Project hosts Empower to Connect Conference.

Voices for Children of North Central Florida, Inc.

P.O. Box 4062, Ocala, FL 34478-4062 352.484.0319 | voices4childrenfl.org Sue Carpenter sue@voices4childrenfl.org Mission Statement: To support critical

physical and psychological needs of children who have a Guardian ad Litem assigned to them. To support recruitment, training, and retention of volunteers who advocate for these children. Goal and objective of 2019–2020: Expand the scope of our impact on the children who are in the judicial system and have a Guardian ad Litem appointed to their case; assist the Guardian ad Litem program in recruiting additional Guardian advocates; maintain our Normalcy program and increase our Christmas 4 Kids program. Signature Event: Watch for our annual auction dinner in early summer, 2020.

How can you volunteer? Mentor at-risk students Coach a youth sports team Run errands for home-bound seniors Walk dogs at an animal shelter Clean parks or beautify neighborhoods Prepare communities for disasters Provide pro-bono services (i.e. legal council or IT support) Serve on a nonprofitâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s board of directors

www.VolunteerFlorida.org 850.414.7400

November is National Hospice Month November 1, 8:30am Soul Injury: Healing from Within

Breakfast with Deborah Grassman, APRN The Elliot Center, 3231 SW 34th Ave.

November 16, 10am Welcome Home, Vietnam Veterans

Commemorative Ceremony November

Memorial Park, 2895 SE 62nd St. is National Hospice Month

of Marion County

Nov 1, 8:30 amâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Soul Injury: Healing from Within Breakfast with Deborah Grassman, APRN The Elliott Center, 3231 SW 34th Ave.

Nov 16, 10 amâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Welcome Home, Vietnam Veterans Commemorative Ceremony

Memorial Park, 2895 SE 62nd St. RSVP to Veronica, (352) 873-7456 RSVP to Veronica at (352)or873-7456 or vvaughan@hospiceofmarion.com

vvaughan@hospiceofmarion.com

Feel better. Live better.

SPONSORED

November — a Month to Recognize Hospice; a Time to

Remember Veterans

Submitted by Hospice of Marion County

ospice of Marion County (HMC) honors National Hospice Month each year by hosting community programs that highlight services, outreach and the compassionate care only hospice can provide. This year, the programs are focused on veterans in an effort to improve access to care as well as honor those who served. To kick off the month on November 1, HMC hosts a breakfast with Deborah Grassman, APRN, a national grief expert, creator of the “Soul Injury” initiative and founder of Opus Peace, which takes an innovative approach to address unresolved grief for anyone with a traumatic loss but especially veterans whom she terms “wounded warriors.” Grassman has cared for more than 10,000 dying veterans during her 30-year career and will share what those veterans taught her about the burden of unmourned loss and unforgiven guilt. An accomplished author, she has written all the materials for the national We Honor Veterans program, of which HMC is a Level 4 partner. While the nation observes Veterans Day on November 11, HMC is extending

the week of remembrance by commemorating the sacrifices of Vietnam veterans to recognize the men and women who were denied a proper welcome upon returning home nearly 50 years ago. On November 16, Welcome Home, Vietnam Veterans will be held at HMC’s new Memorial Park and Dunlevy-Levenson-Burchel Family Veterans Circle of Honor. An honor guard will open the ceremony in the majestic new park with its granite memorial wall and towering military monuments. Join veterans, families and state and local dignitaries to properly honor those veterans of the Vietnam conflict. Jessica McCune, RN, LMHC, Director of Bereavement Services with Hospice of Marion County, will share the experiences of Paul Tschudi, EdS, MA, a medic in Vietnam from 1969-70 and now a faculty member at George Washington University, and how he has dealt with the subsequent emotional healing in the ensuing years. She’ll also present an overview of the “Soul Injury” program and how she has incorporated it into the grief care offered at HMC’s Monarch Center for Hope & Healing. The

Monarch Center provides counseling and activities for people of all ages who have experienced the loss of a loved one. These services are offered to the community at no charge thanks to the generosity of donors. Both the Monarch Center and the Memorial Park are on the Helen “Mimi” Walker campus just off Hwy. 441. Mark your calendar and attend these meaningful and educational opportunities: Community Breakfast, Soul Injury presentation on Friday, November 1, 8:30 a.m., Elliott Center, 3231 SW 34th Ave., Ocala, FL, 34474 Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans event, Saturday, November 16, 10:00 a.m., Hospice of Marion County Memorial Park, 2895 SW 62nd Ave., Ocala, FL 34480 Both events are free and open to the public, but seating is limited. RSVP to Veronica at (352) 873-7456 or email vvaughan@ hospiceofmarion.com.

NOV 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

Save the Date Wednesday, November 20, 2019 | 5-9pm Historic Ocala Preservation Society and

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Connecting

Cause

with a BY JADE VISTA

hile many may criticize the United States as the land of excess and greed, our generosity is still without rival. The notion of charity is embedded so deeply into the fabric of our identity that it inspires us into action. Each year Americans continue to give more than the year before. According to the Giving USA 2019 report, Americans gave a total of $427.71 billion to nonprofits, disaster relief, and other charitable organizations in 2018. These numbers can be broken down into individuals giving at $292.09 billion and a total of 68% of total giving of 2018. Foundations were $75.86 billion at 18%, bequests equalled $39.71 billion at 9%, and lastly Corporations were $20.05 billion at 5%. Wherever you look—even in our own community—there are those who struggle to survive. They do what they must to main-

| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | NOV 2019

The importance of giving in local communities.

tain their existence—from sleeping in their cars, working days without sleep, and going without to provide better for their children. Some fought for our freedoms, some struggle with mental illness or disabilities, and some are children who don’t eat outside of school hours. These are our neighbors and friends. You may never cross paths with them, or you do but they may never make their need known. Those in need are all around us and, now more than ever, they deserve a safe place to be heard and helped, especially when they can’t help themselves. The first question that is often asked is, “Does my giving actually help the community like they say it will?” YES. It does. Your contribution always matters. 20.3 percent of the population of Marion County lives below the poverty line. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, that’s roughly 12,300 people

out of a total population of 60,429 people. Of those 12.3 thousand people, over 2,000 of them are children who attend Marion County Public schools. Many programs, such as the backpack food program, keep these children fed over the weekend when

“Does my giving actually help the community like they say it will? YES. It does.“ they are outside of school. There are multiple trustworthy organizations within Marion County that help those suffering. Whether it’s domestic abuse, pregnant teens, people struggling with homelessness, and those in need of medi-

References: USA, W. by G. (n.d.). Giving USA 2019 : Americans gave $427.71 billion to charity in 2018 amid complex year for charitable giving: Giving USA. Retrieved October 6, 2019, from https:// givingusa.org/giving-usa-2019-americans-gave-427-71-billion-tocharity-in-2018-amid-complex-year-for-charitable-giving/. References: Charitable Giving Statistics. (n.d.). Retrieved October 6, 2019, from https://www.nptrust.org/philanthropic-resources/charitable-giving-statistics/. U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts: Ocala city, Florida. (n.d.). Retrieved October 5, 2019, from https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/ocalacityflorida.

cal attention—there are people here locally that want to help. All of these organizations need not only funds to continue, but people to help volunteer. You don’t need to donate thousands of dollars to make an impact. Give of your resources, your time, and your talents. Volunteer at a soup kitchen, sponsor families around the holidays, donate blood during a blood drive or visit the elderly who have very little family that come to see them during the holidays. While long-term solutions to these problems need to be found, choosing to contribute what you can helps assuage some of the need currently in our community.

You don’t need to donate thousands of dollars to make an impact. Give of your resources, your time, and your talents.

As we enter into this next season, the needs of the community seem to find themselves under a spotlight. December is the most popular month for giving, equalling a whopping 30% of total contributions alone for the single month. Unfortunately, giving tends to taper off as we shift into the new

year. The holiday season is filled with the expectation of connecting. Nothing connects you to your community more than giving of yourself to help others. Contributing allows you to be a part of something bigger than yourself. It helps cultivate relationships with people outside of your normal circle. It gives

both the giving and receiving party a sense of purpose. It helps create meaning in people’s lives and lets them know they are not forgotten. It strengthens and unites our community. When you give the best of what you have, you show people that they are of value and they are worthy. Generosity is the healing magic that unites people from every race, socioeconomic status, and gender. It sets off a chain reaction that ignites a fire within our family, friends, and children to be part of the solution. This holiday season slow down and look around you. Make a conscious effort to identify people who might be struggling. Take the time to connect with your community.

NOV 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

A Safe Haven Forest Animal Rescue is a place of refuge for wild animals.

ar off the beaten path, deep within the Ocala National Forest sits a haven for non-releasable wild animals. Abused and neglected, these creatures are relocated to the central Florida habitat from all corners of the world. Owners, Kurt and Lisa Stoner, and the amazing team at the Forest Animal Rescue have spent the past 21 years rehabilitating hundreds of wild animals, some of which have been released back into the wild while others have remained safely within their walls. One of the biggest threats to wild animals is private ownership, a surprising trend that is on the rise. Obtained through both legal and illegal means, private citizens are purchasing wild animals in attempts to domesticate them as one would a common household pet. In their infantile stage, wild animals are seen as adorable additions to any

| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | NOV 2019

BY MELISSA DESKOVIC household, yet as they age, many find the change in temperament unmanageable at best and downright dangerous at its worst. Riding through the sanctuary, it is impossible not to notice the cute factor that draws people into owning a wild animal. Unfortunately, it is this exact thought process that is the catalyst for the problem itself. “They [wild animals] don’t need to be people’s pets. They don’t need to be used for photoshoots and all the kinds of things that people try to do with wild animals that are not sustainable. It only works for a short period of time and then the animals are cast-off, and there is nowhere else for them to go.” The American Veterinary Medical Association, the United States Department of Agriculture and the Center of Disease Control have all expressed opposition to the possession of certain wild animals by individuals. In fact,

they are not the only ones who oppose such habits. Forest Animal Rescue ensures that the animals in their care are safe, never to be bred, or exploited in any way. With state guidelines regulating the thickness of the wire and height of each enclosure, Forest Animal Rescue goes above and beyond those regulations in order to protect each animal. Allowing ample room

Photo by Mark J Barrett

SPONSORED

for them to roam and play in an enclosure designed specifically for each animal's needs. Currently, Kurt and Lisa Stoner have over 100 animals living at their sanctuary. “We started providing homes for the animals that were cast off and we give them lifetime care,” says Lisa. When the animals arrive, they are not always in the best health. Many of the animals have been declawed or had their

time to pull his teeth.” Capuchin monkeys are among one of the most sought-after exotic animals that citizens try to domesticate, yet when most people purchase these animals they are not prepared for such an undertaking. For example, capuchins can live up to 45 years, which is decades longer than any domestic animal. At full maturity, a capuchin monkey’s mental

able to interact with each other and forage as they would out in the wild. The tiger enclosure is equally as impressive, with tunnels and acreage habitats for them to roam and play; each tiger in their care is able to make the most of the space given. Currently, they are looking to add a waterfall and pond to each tiger and bear habitat and are looking to partner with a local company that can assist in bringing these creatures a natural water source to splash in. The shape of each habitat is designed with each animal in mind. The bat enclosure is the perfect example of how much consideration goes into designing the animal's

Photos provided by Forest Animal Rescue

“The work that is done at Forest Animal Rescue is truly astounding. Their 80-acre facility is 100% committed to helping these animals live out their lives in a truly beautiful, true sanctuary setting.”

teeth pulled or sawed-off to keep them from biting, yet for many wild animals, showing their teeth is one of the primary means of communication—especially monkeys.” This was the case for one of the sanctuary’s primates Jojo. “JoJo doesn’t have any canines—his teeth were pulled. It really compromises their ability to communicate.” Thankfully, not all that come to Forest Animal Rescue have been abused as badly as the others. Some animals are rescued early enough in the process that they are able to save them from some of the agonies that would normally befall them. “Louie (another capuchin monkey) was rescued by us from a woman in Chicago. Thankfully, Louie came to us early enough that she didn’t have

ability will reach the equivalent of a five-yearold child. This type of hyperactivity mixed with improper care and environment is not healthy for the animals or those that try to domesticate them. Forest Animal Rescue has many animals in their care, each with a story that is heartbreaking. From the capuchin monkeys saved from laboratory testing to the tigers saved from closed cub-petting operations or small privately-run zoos that do not have the ways or means to care for such beautiful creatures. Each habitat is painstakingly curated to give the best optimal life for each animal. The bear enclosure spans four acres and is protected by ample fencing. With four bears currently residing there, they are

habitat. “We designed this enclosure with the bats' flight pattern in mind. Each bat has a wingspan of 4 feet so we had to make sure the octagonal shape was conducive to an uninterrupted flight pattern and gave them enough room to fly.” Forest Animal Rescue relies solely on the generosity of its donors to help care for these amazing creatures. There are sometimes orphaned black bears that can be rehabilitated and released back into the wild, yet at Forest Animal Rescue, most of the creatures in their care are there for life. Kurt, Lisa, and their team are in it for the long haul. The lifetime care provided by Forest Animal Rescue is funded by the generosity of other caring people. With flexible giving opportunities, people can donate any amount, large or small. Tax-deductible gifts may be made one time or on an automatically recurring basis. Sponsorship opportunities, complete with signage at the sanctuary and recog-

NOV 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

Photo by Ralph Demilio

SPONSORED

nition for various levels of sponsors, are available as well. Surprisingly, the need for accredited animal sanctuaries is on the rise. There are some facilities that inaccurately call themselves “sanctuaries” but profit by exploiting the animals. Much of the general public doesn’t understand the difference. Any place that offers photos with wild animals is not thinking about the safety of the public or of the animal. “We firmly agree that animals should not be exploited. They shouldn’t be used for breeding, selling, or as props for pictures, that is not the definition of sanctuary.” Forest Animal Rescue is a true animal sanctuary as they are not open to the public except for two private tours each month, limited to four people at a time. The tours

are designed to show donors that their money is truly supporting a good cause. The relaxed, stress-free environment and large, natural habitats speak for themselves. They have recently completed their Bob Barker Animal Care Building. This provides the team with expanded on-site veterinary capabilities, an education center, larger food preparation area and sufficient office space. By completing this project, they are able to rescue more animals and further their black bear rehabilitation and release program. Started with an initial gift from famed game show host Bob Barker of “The Price is Right”, the project was completed thanks to the generous gifts supplied by the community. The work that is done at Forest Animal Rescue is truly astounding. Their 80-acre facility is 100% committed to helping these animals live out their lives in a naturally beautiful, true sanctuary setting. FOR MORE INFORMATION on how you can help, visit their website at www. ForestAnimalRescue.org, find them on Facebook and Instagram or contact Lisa Stoner, VP at 352-625-7377.

| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | NOV 2019

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How To Handle Market Volatility

Looking back at the past few weeks, the market has made some investors nervous. Market volatility can lead to some serious stress but what are the best ways to respond to this uneasy feeling? When dealing with market volatility, it's important to keep several things in mind to avoid making major mistakes.

HAVE A PLAN

It's frequently said that those who fail to plan are planning to fail. When investing, it's important to have a plan. If your plan is to put aside $1,000 or $5,000 a month stick to it. Slow and steady wins the race. Sticking with your plan will allow you to take advantage of the periods when the stock market is down.

KEEP REINVESTING

Dividends and interest tend to keep coming whether the Dow Jones Industrial Average is down 500 points or it's up 300 on a given day. It's true that there are situations that will lead some companies to cut or suspend their dividends. However, most companies will keep paying out dividends as long as possible because a cut is a sure-fire way to lose investors and see the price of your company's stock drop like a rock. Dividends from stocks and interest from bonds are two of the best ways to deal with volatility. You should keep reinvesting the capital your investments throw off. When the market is down, you'll be able to buy more shares, and this will add to your flow of dividends and interest. By reinvesting during periods of volatility, you'll be able to increase the power of compounding greatly.

DON'T SELL

Many financial professionals will tell you to avoid selling your investments at the worst possible time is a part of sticking with your plan. Often times, this is an ideal strategy. It can be tempting to sell when the market is down 10% so that you can avoid the next 20% loss. This is generally a bad idea. Time in the market will usually beat attempts to time the market. Although, one exception would be drawing down some money strategically during your golden years. You'll probably want to make quarterly or annual withdrawals regardless of what

the market is doing in that case so that you can fund your living expenses.

REBALANCE

Another important step to take when the market is showing extreme volatility is remembering to rebalance your portfolio periodically. You may have a strategy of rebalancing quarterly, semiannually or yearly. If you have a target allocation of 75% of your portfolio in stocks and 25% in bonds, a major drop in stocks could leave you with 65% in stocks and 35% in bonds. In this instance, you'd sell a chunk of your bonds and move the money into stocks. If you're still in the accumulation phase, you could stop contributing to bonds and put all of your money in stocks until you reach your targeted balance. This will keep you from becoming too overweight in one area and allow you to maintain the proper level of diversification. One big piece of advice that's important to remember during market volatility is to stay the course. If you have a plan, stick to it. This includes making periodic investments as you would if the market were at record highs. Real money is made during market downturns. If your portfolio gets out of balance, it's a good idea to rebalance it in the event of a major market downturn to take advantage of the sale price on stocks. If you have cash sitting on the sidelines, volatility to the down side can be a great time to put that money to work. Planning your retirement means diversifying to reduce the risk to your overall retirement plan. We are here to help guide you to and through a successful retirement.

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Ocala’s FAFO celebrates Marion County student’s achievement in the arts.

2019 TOP DOCS BY KAITLYN BUTLER

Keeping Marion County Healthy One Appointment at a Time.

| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | NOV 2019

When it comes to choosing the right physician for your medical journey, there are many things to consider. From specializations to natural remedies, the road map to health is not always a straight line. Marion County is in a unique position. With a plethora of quality health care facilities just around the corner, everyone in your family (including your pets) has easy access to some of the top medical professionals. Ocala Magazine is honored to once again present to you—Ocala’s Top Docs.

2019 TOP DOCS

Dr. Erica Olstein

orn and raised in Ocala, Erica Olstein is a 4th generation Ocala native. Her lifelong passion for natural routes to healthcare inspired Erica to study acupuncture and Eastern medicine. “I am just as passionate about my patients’ health as much as I am about my very own.” As a Physician of Acupuncture and Eastern medicine, she is the owner of two successful acupuncture practices in Ocala since 2011—A Better U Healthcare and AcuSleep. With a positive, forward-thinking mentality, she approaches each client with honesty, compassion, and a friendly smile. Erica makes herself available at her Ocala office by the Paddock Mall all week but remarks that one of her favorite workdays is Saturday mornings when she gets to do acupuncture in The Villages for farm staff while surrounded by Arabian horses, alpaca, and miniature horses. A Better U Healthcare is located at 2609 SW 33rd Street Unit 103 in Ocala. Erica and her team work with clients of all ages helping them find natural approaches to treatable conditions.

Physician of Acupuncture & Eastern Medicine Primary Care Physician Their wellness therapy options include such things as acupuncture, cupping, infrared therapies, dietary counseling, and more. Erica‘s other practice, AcuSleep, helps patients focus on the benefits of getting a healthy night’s sleep. By using natural approaches to help patients remedy their sleep disorders at the source, patients are able to mend their sleep patterns for a healthier night's rest. Erica is always there for her clients—helping them to overcome the day to day aches and pains associated with poor health. Erica’s testimonials speak for themselves. You will find patients of all health conditions, ranging from seasonal allergies to Bell's palsy, giving praise of her gentle, yet effective care. While her scope of treatment options and the variety of health conditions she treats is vast, Erica’s patients have one thing in common—a desire to feel better naturally without the risk of side effects. A Better U Healthcare is Ocala’s one-stop shop for effective holistic wellness. Her secret to success? "A wishbone, a backbone, and a funny bone."

A BETTER U HEALTHCARE Primary Care and Family Practice AcuSleep — The Acupuncture Sleep Clinic 2609 SW 33rd St Unit 103, Ocala • (352) 615-5566

NOV 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

2019 TOP DOCS

Dr. Manal Fakhoury Doctor of Pharmacy, MBA

recall being the first Pharm. D. (Doctor of Pharmacy) employee to be hired at Ocala Regional Medical Center (ORMC), I had just completed my clinical residency at Shands Hospital and was 8 months pregnant with my first child when they hired me. They were also aware that my wonderful husband, Riadh, did not want me to work, but I had a passion to use my education and knowledge. I graduated from one of the top pharmacy schools in the country, the University of Southern California School of Pharmacy, was class president and a top honor student. This was long before the internet and electronic medical records—the year was 1988. I also did relief work at a retail pharmacy, home health care and infusion therapy, and consulting. With each new birth (five children in total) I gave up one of my extra jobs and eventually maintained my role as the Clinical Coordinator at ORMC. I was blessed to work for a great team at the hospital and was able to focus on clinical services, including drug monitoring, medication errors, near misses, and adverse drug reactions. I also played a role in ensuring the success of our team during the Joint Commission Accreditation

| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | NOV 2019

and Certification of Hospital Organizations (JCAHO). As many of us develop other interest and passions, mine took me into communication, public speaking, and a prison ministry. I have always been involved in my community, even at a young age. Service is part of my core values and has given me the opportunity to grow and connect with many wonderful community leaders and friends. Some of the organizations that I am a member of include Toastmasters International, and Rotary International, Business Networking International. I also started a personal development company to serve as an umbrella for my passion in the area of personal development. No wonder I named it Fakhoury Leadership International where we focus on helping business leaders and youth to be their best. My most recent endeavors include the formation of Ollin Women International, a women's leadership project that was born in January of 2018 dedicated to taking the cliché out of world peace. Another favorite project is the licensing to produce TEDxOcala, a global (i.e. international) platform for ideas worth spreading. This year we will be hosting our 5th annual event on No-

“Service is part of my core values and has given me the opportunity to grow and connect with many wonderful community leaders and friends.“ vember 2nd at the College of Central Florida. My community involvement has also included Chairwoman for the Chamber of Commerce, Chair of the United Way Campaign, Chair of CF Foundation's Taste of Ocala, YMCA's Major Gifts Chiar, and many other community and national boards. I'm excited to spend

more time traveling to see our children, participating in social justice cases and personal development program with Tony Robbins Platinum Partnership. I recognize the many blessings that I have around me and I'm grateful for the life I'm privileged to live. It is a daily reminder to love others even when they dehumanize you.

2019 TOP DOCS

Dr. Riadh Fakhoury

uccess is driven by passion. An internal desire to pursue a dream or vision, no matter the obstacles. My passions include family, wife Manal, 5 beautiful children, and the art of serving others. As a chiropractic physician, I have had the blessing of serving our community for 35 years, watching this great profession grow in acceptance as mainstream healthcare for the treatment of back pain and injury. Dr. Jamal Fakhoury, my brother, was instrumental in introducing me to the world of chiropractic by adjusting me and inviting me to his classes at Los Angeles College of Chiropractic. I fell in love with chiropractic, left dental school, starting my journey of health and healing. In 1984 I graduated from chiropractic college as valedictorian and moved immediately to Ocala, joining my brother and calling this beautiful city home. A few years later, I got married, starting a family of children that give us so much joy and happiness. We opened the doors with 1 doctor and one staff member. The beginning years of practice were very challenging, to the point that I considered changing professions. It was the strong support and love from my parents and wife

Doctor of Chiropractic

that guided me to overcome those difficult times. Originally, as Fakhoury Chiropractic Clinic, we were only chiropractic services based. Realizing that most peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pain was related to prior injuries and car accidents, it became clear that treating long term symptoms of pain from those injuries was not effective. We needed to focus on the care of more recent injuries. Treating these accident injuries early on has made us more effective in giving patients a healthier and less painful future. This shift in treatment philosophy was instrumental in the conversion of Fakhoury Chiropractic Clinic into Fakhoury Medical and Chiropractic Center where we grew to treat accident injury cases with a team of medical and chiropractic physicians. We expanded to serve our patients through physical and manual rehabilitation, massage therapy, an urgent care experienced medical doctor, spinal injections by specially trained anesthesiologist and physiatrist, 6 chiropractors, and neurodiagnostic services in Ocala and our new office in The Villages. Having these services under one roof allows for easier and more efficient care for our patients. Our utmost concern at Fakhoury Medical and

Chiropractic is to provide treatment for our patients in a caring environment while making their experience as comfortable and effective as possible. We are blessed with amazing doctors, staff and office manager that have a natural heart to love and care for our patients as if they were family. Without this incredible, caring and compassionate team, we would be nothing. Our passion and

true commitment to serve has made us a trusted facility for the care of pain and injuries by our patients, other physicians, and our wonderful community. The passion within each and every one of us to care for that next person walking into our doors, treating them like family, is the driving force of success, satisfaction, and pride. We are honored to be here to serve our community.

FAKHOURY MEDICAL AND CHIROPRACTIC CENTER 1009 SW 17th St, Ocala, FL 34471 (352) 350-5555 | head2toecare.com

NOV 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

2019 TOP DOCS

Dr. David Albright Family Practice Specialist

r. David Albright, MD, attended and graduated from medical school in 1987, having over 32 years of diverse experience, especially as a family physician. He is affiliated with many hospitals, including HCA/ Ocala Regional Medical Center, West Marion, and Advent, formerly known as Munroe Regional Medical Center. David is a 4th generation Marion County resident. He has been happily married for over 27 years to Jackie and has one son, Austin and 2 daughters, Carley and JJ. He is a graduate of University of Florida, has practiced in Ocala, Marion County for over 24 years, and is a Board Certified Family Physician. His favorite things that he enjoys most is spending time with his family and following all Gator sports. David says, "I take pride in providing the highest quality medical care to all of my patients and serving on staff at both hospitals" One of his highlights in life is the annual Albright beach trip with his extended family members, being his

HOSPITAL OR PRACTICE NAME Family Practice Specialist Address • Phone

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mother, Aggie and brothers, George, Clay and Justin Albright. David and his family are avid members of the First Presbyterian Church in Ocala for many years, of which he serves as a Deacon and a member of many committees. His passion for his patients is like none other and it shows in his patients' greater health reports after having him as their physician for many years. As one patient stated, " Dr. Albright is a good man and a great doctor who gets very involved in and truly cares about me and my health. He takes the time to find out what is wrong. His entire office is very caring. I recommend him to everyone." Dr. Albright's Care Philosophy is: "Preventative Care is the key to avoid illness in the future"

”Preventative Care is the key to avoid illness in the future.“

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2019 TOP DOCS

Dr. James Duke Orthopedic Surgeon

r. Duke is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon who specializes in adult reconstructive surgery, total and partial knee resurfacing, anterior approach total hip replacement, knee arthroscopy and sports medicine. Dr. Duke became an orthopedic surgeon because he was mentored by a wonderful hometown orthopedic surgeon who allowed him to observe surgery. As he went through his medical school rotations, Dr. Duke was drawn to orthopedics. He felt that it was the specialty best suited to utilizing his talents in caring

for patients. What sets Dr. Duke apart is how he listens and communicates. He treats all of his patients like family. Dr. Duke has practiced medicine in the same location for 28 years and has performed over 10,000 total joint replacements. He and his caring staff want the absolute best for their patients. Outside of orthopedics, Dr. Duke enjoys spending time with his grandchildren, watching University of Florida sports, playing sports, fishing, boating and traveling.

What sets Dr. Duke apart is how he listens and communicates. DR. JAMES DUKE Orthopedic Surgeon 2300 SE 17th Street, Ocala, FL 34471 352-867-0444 | www.bridgewaterpk.com

| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | NOV 2019

BRIDGEWATER PARK HEALTH AND REHAB 9280 SW 81st Court, Ocala, FL 34481 352-509-5201

OM OCALA MAGAZINE

2019

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2019 TOP DOCS

Dr. Tina Chandra Cosmetic, Neuromuscular and Sleep Dentist A Physiologic Approach

r. Tina Chandra started her general dentistry career in the Washington, DC area after she graduated from the University of Tennessee Dental School in 1992 followed by a general practice residency. She relocated to Ocala in 1996 after she got married to Dr. Ravi Chandra, a vascular surgeon. She opened a solo practice, augmented her expertise and her skills with an extensive postgraduate training at the Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies in 2003 and now is a leading cosmetic, neuromuscular, sleep and TMD dentist at Chandra Smile Designs. Dr. Tina Chandra excels at keeping abreast of the best and latest techniques in Advanced Dentistry. The scope of her practice is beyond general dental care; therefore, she is able to deliver outstanding services sure to exceed one’s expectations. Her state of the art, cutting edge spa-like facility is unique and very comfortable. Along with her caring team, her outstanding skills will take away any concerns about being in a dental office. Whether a patient

needs help with a pain in their jaw, TMJ, snoring, and sleep apnea, or just wants a great smile with veneers, Dr. Chandra prides herself in bringing out the best smile, the best health, and creating comfort for all her patients. Besides philanthropic work, Dr. Tina Chandra loves travelling with her family and participating in thrill seeking outdoor adventures like skydiving, zip lining, bungee jumping. Her favorite things are related to her daughter—watching her dance and spending quality time shopping with her! Dr. Tina Chandra’s passion is helping others, especially to inspire and mentor the youth. She actively serves as a board member and past president in her Indian Association Community, Youth group sponsor, Domestic Violence Center, Kimberly’s Center for Abused Children, Past Chairman of the American Heart Association. She keeps busy as the event chairman of the Medical Expo, Dentistry from The Heart and FreeD.O.M. Dental Clinic serving the underprivileged. She has a generous heart and a giving nature.

CHANDRA SMILE DESIGNS Tina Chandra, DDS, LVIF, IAPAF (352) 537-8934 | www.chandrasmiles.com 1920 SW 20th Place, Suite 202, Ocala, FL 34471

| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | NOV 2019

“Love, family, work, and play—that’s all you need.”

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2019 TOP DOCS

Dr. Ravi Chandra Vascular Surgeon

r. Ravi Chandra came to Ocala in 1996 with his extensive training to begin his general and vascular surgical career, after doing his medical and surgical training in Hyderabad, India and Royal College of Surgeons in Edinburgh, UK, followed by more extensive training in Miami and Cleveland Clinic. He was serving as a staff surgeon for the VA in Arkansas after completing numerous fellowships before he made the move to Florida. Dr. Chandra is one of few surgeons to be triple board certified including the American Board of Surgery, The American Board of Phlebology, and the American Board of Vascular Medicine as a diplomat in endovascular medicine. He opened up Surgical Specialists of Ocala as a solo practitioner. Dr. Chandra is passionate about helping his patients by using cutting edge technology in his surgeries. His medical practice, Surgical Specialists of Ocala (SSO), provides general and vascular surgery care, as well as comprehensive vein treatment. SSO has an

office-based catheterization laboratory where endovascular work is performed. He prides himself in giving the latest and best vascular procedures to all his patients. Dr. Chandra enjoys reading, traveling, and loves exotic cars. Dr. Chandra was a past president at the Marion County Medical Society and also served on the Board of Trustees at Munroe Medical Center hospital for 12 years. He has served on countless committees serving the indigent of Marion County. Dr. Chandra and his family are big supporters of United Way, American Heart Association, the India Association of Ocala Community Center, and their Hindu Temple in Orlando. Dr. Ravi Chandra takes pride in his beautiful wife, Dr. Tina Chandra, and his daughter. They spend quality time together on family vacations. Their daughter is currently a junior at Georgetown University so many trips are made to Washington, DC to enjoy moments with her.

SURGICAL SPECIALTIES OF OCALA Vascular Surgeon 1920 SW 20th Place, Ocala, FL 34471 352-237-1212

| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | NOV 2019

Dr. Chandra is passionate about helping his patients by using cutting-edge technology in his surgeries.

You were made to move.

Trust the Orthopedic Experts We’re meant to be active. So when I hurt my shoulder, I didn’t let pain change my plans. The orthopedic specialists at AdventHealth Ocala got me back where I belong: on the course, on the run, on top of the world again. They were there every step of the way — from helping me understand the source of my pain to guiding me through my surgery and recovery. Now I’m back to doing what I love and feeling whole.

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2019 TOP DOCS

OFMC Practice

OCALA FAMILY MEDICAL CENTER 9

Carlos Rodriguez, MD Internal Medicine

Robert Panzer, DO Family Practice

Allen Winston, DO Family Practice

Ana Sanchez, MD Yasmin Amin, MD, FACC Todd Panzer, APRN-C Linda Bellows, APRN-C Stacey Graham, APRN-C Laurel Bryant, APRN-C Karen Larsen, APRN-C Family Practice Family Practice Family Practice Family Practice Family Practice Cardiology Internal Medicine

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Mark Monical, DO James London, MD, FACC Robert Williams, MD Family Practice Cardiology Family Practice

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Melissa Formella, APRN-C Alexis Nibe, PA-C Family Practice Family Practice

Brian Pecoraro, DO Family Practice

Mimi Balch, MD Family Practice

Samantha Weston, PA-C Family Practice

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

OCALA FAMILY MEDICAL CENTER 9

CARLY CARRION OLMEDA, M.D. BOARD CERTIFIED ENDOCRINOLOGIST DIABETES SPECIALIST

For the second year in a row, Dr. Carrion has been named Ocalaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Best Endocrinologist! He is changing the lives of patients struggling with Diabetes, Thyroid imbalances, metabolism issues and more. His scope of treatment and care include, but is not limited to:

â&#x20AC;˘ Diabetes Mellitus â&#x20AC;˘ Obesity Management â&#x20AC;˘ Thyroid Nodules â&#x20AC;˘ Thyroid Cancer â&#x20AC;˘ Hyperthyroidism/Hypothyroidism â&#x20AC;˘ Parathyroid Disease & Calcium Disorders

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For more information or to make an appointment call 352-368-1360!

Dr. Johnson and Evette Hearn, APRN have over 25 years of experience and provide full-service Gynecology care to women of all ages. In addition to a multitude of in office procedures, Dr. Johnson performs a wide array of advanced surgical procedures in the hospital.

Philip Johnson, M.D.

Evette Hearn, APRN

General Gynecologic Care: â&#x20AC;˘ Adolescent Gynecology and Counseling (Age 12 and up) â&#x20AC;˘ Menopausal Management â&#x20AC;˘ Osteoporosis Detection and Treatment â&#x20AC;˘ Premenstrual Syndrome Management â&#x20AC;˘ Routine Exams Family Planning: â&#x20AC;˘ Contraception Counseling â&#x20AC;˘ Infertility Evaluation, Testing and Treatment â&#x20AC;˘ IUD Insertion & Removal â&#x20AC;˘ Nexplanon Insertion & Removal â&#x20AC;˘ STD Testing

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OCT 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | *Ocala Family Medical Center, Inc. complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex.*

OCALA FAMILY MEDICAL CENTER 9

OFMC DERMATOLOGY & AESTHETIC CENTER Â

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| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM 2019 with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex.* *Ocala Family Medical Center,| OCT Inc. complies

OCALA FAMILY MEDICAL CENTER OCALA FAMILY MEDICAL CENTER OFMC WELLNESS CENTER OFMC WELLNESS CENTER Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation PhysicalInterventional Medicine & Rehabilitation Spine Interventional Spine Sports Medicine Sports Medicine Eduardo Cruz, M.D. Eduardo Cruz, M.D.

Matt Ota, PA-C Matt Ota, PA-C

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Nick Machupa, PT, OCS Director of Physical Therapy Nick Machupa, PT, OCS Director of Physical Therapy

Deborah Main, DPT

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Claudia Guevara, PTA

Deborah Main, DPT

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OFMC OFMC WELLNESS CENTER WELLNESS CENTER 2135 SW 19TH AVENUE ROAD 2135 SW 19TH AVENUE OCALA, FL 34471 ROAD OCALA, FL 34471

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*Ocala Family Medical Center, Inc. complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex.* OCT 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | *Ocala Family Medical Center, Inc. complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex.*

OCALA MAGAZINE PRESENTS

R A B T E ION L EC OF NURSES

Award-Winning Care This past October we had the privilege of hosting our annual Celebration of Nurses event where we honored the outstanding nurses in our community. Each nurse gives of themselves day in and day out, often with little rest and numerous demands on their schedules. This night was a moment to stop and thank them for all of their hard work and dedication to our city. Hundreds came out to enjoy a night of live music, games, and food provided by local dining establishments. The highlight of the evening was the awards celebration, where we presented top designations in multiple categories to six high performing nurses. Chosen by a panel of distinguished judges and peers, here are your 2019 Celebration of Nurses Award Winners. PHOTOGRAPHY BY RALPH DEMILIO

Kierea Moses STUDENT AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING NURSING STUDENTS. KIEREA IS A STUDENT AT

College of Central Florida SOME WORDS FROM THE MANY NOMINATIONS THAT WERE RECEIVED:

“Kierea Moses exemplifies everything we want for our future health care providers. She is always prompt, knowledgeable, and friendly. You will never meet a more compassionate and detail-oriented individual. Marion County’s health care system is enriched by her addition.”

| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | NOV 2019

Nicole Leinas SPIRIT AWARD FOR NURSES WITH 1–10 YEARS IN THE FIELD. NICOLE WORKS AT AdventHealth Ocala SOME WORDS FROM THE MANY NOMINATIONS THAT WERE RECEIVED:

“There’s a difference between a nurse and a nurse who goes above and beyond what is expected of them. Nicole always works so hard at what she does. I’ve worked with plenty of nurses but Nicole truly enjoys her job and the people who surround her. No matter what the situation is, she will drop what she is doing to help others and offers leadership to those who are new.”

Tracey Rankin INSPIRATION AWARD FOR NURSES WHO HAVE SPENT 11–19 YEARS IN THE FIELD. TRACEY IS THE NURSE MANAGER AT AdventHealth Ocala

Labor and Delivery SOME WORDS FROM THE MANY NOMINATIONS THAT WERE RECEIVED:

“Tracey fights for us daily. We know she has our backs all the time. She has brought new life into our unit with her combination of fierceness and sense of humor. She will gladly don scrubs and jump in to help us out. Her door is always open and she has had a major influence on our unit, revitalizing a sense of pride and family.”

NOV 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

Joni Crum LEGACY AWARD FOR NURSES WHO HAVE 20+ YEARS IN THE FIELD. JONI IS AT Ocala Regional Medical

and West Marion SOME WORDS FROM THE MANY NOMINATIONS THAT WERE RECEIVED:

"In today’s world of nursing, there is only one thing that is consistent, and that is change. Joni embraces today’s nursing with education and research. She shares her knowledge with everyone. She is the go-to person when you need to know how to do something, how to fix something, where to find something, or an extra set of hands. Always with a contagious smile, she is flexible working nights, days, weekends and holidays. At times, she seems like a fixture! Above and beyond that, she has volunteered for Walt Disney World Medical Team, Special Olympics Equestrian Championships, Special Olympics Surf Camp Cocoa Beach, and was a missionary to Haiti. Joni’s dedication to the nursing profession has truly been and will continue to be a great asset to Marion County."

| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | NOV 2019

Angela Martin INSTRUCTOR AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING NURSING INSTRUCTORS. SHE IS AN INSTRUCTOR AT THE College of Central Florida SOME WORDS FROM THE MANY NOMINATIONS THAT WERE RECEIVED:

"Mrs. Martin is an inspiration to nursing students and a beacon of knowledge and kindness. She embodies the profession of nursing and is an invaluable contributor by providing excellent patient-focused and holistic education to nursing students as they work towards their degree. She helps students blossom into professionals by helping them hone their critical thinking and networking skills as one of the main faculty for our local Student Nurse’s Association. She has amazing stories about her “in-the-field days.” She is a fun-loving spirit who always goes above and beyond for her students, both in the classroom and at clinicals."

Krystal Berry PEOPLE’S CHOICE THIS AWARD IS GIVEN BY OUR READERSHIP AND SOCIAL MEDIA AUDIENCE. THEY ALL VOTE FOR A NURSE WHO THEY BELIEVE IS WORTHY. SOME WORDS FROM THE MANY NOMINATIONS THAT WERE RECEIVED:

"Her passion and love for the nursing profession is inspiring. Any patient who is lucky enough to get her as their caretaker will have a kind-hearted woman that will laugh with them to ease the pain and cry with them if that is what they need. She truly understands how precious each moment of life is and that’s what makes her an amazing person who also happens to be a nurse."

NOV 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

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| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | NOV 2019

The Road To Recovery Begins At

The Guest

House Local residents Judy Crane and John West help those struggling with addiction overcome the odds and find a new way of living at their first-class facility. BY MELISSA DESKOVIC

Photo by Meagan Gumpert

ehind every person you meet is a story. A long winding tale paved with the decisions that have led us to our current state. Good, bad, or indifferent these narratives shape everything about us—how we think, feel, and act—it all starts with the experiences we process. The 13th-century poet Rumi once wrote: “This being human is a guest house / Every morning a new arrival / A joy, a depression, a meanness / some momentary awareness comes as an unexpected visitor / Welcome and entertain them all!” These words, written centuries ago, are at the core of The Guest House philosophy. A place where mindfulness is encouraged and experiences are embraced in a manner that facilitates the recovery process. Founders Judy Crane and John West both know the hold that trauma and addiction have on the human psyche. For over 20 years Crane has been helping those in the Ocala area overcome trauma and addiction

through proven techniques with her brand of world-class trauma treatment. Spending decades as a Certified Addiction Professional, a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist, a Certified Hypnotist, and author, Judy Crane brings to the table a wealth of knowledge and compassion for each individual client to ensure they are on the best path to recovery. Known as an expert in the field of trauma and recovery, her work has garnered accolades and industry awards for her contributions to the field. Her book, "The Trauma Heart", gives readers a first-hand look at the varying traumas she has treated, how her clients were able to overcome their own addictions, and the things she is learned along the way. It was through her work that she met, and eventually partnered with, Co-Founder John West. Born to actor J.T. Walsh, West found himself initially drawn to the arts and entertainment industries, establishing for himself a life in Hollywood working as a producer. Yet,

NOV 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

when his father unexpectedly passed away, the trauma of such a sudden loss sent West into a downward spiral. It was only after the intervention of family and friends—and help from Crane—that he was able to overcome his addictions and find himself back on a path of healthy living. This experience opened his eyes to see how powerful and lifechanging the road to recovery can be for those who need it. Experiencing first hand how trauma and addiction can affect not only yourself but those around you, West made the decision to put his own journey to use helping others find their road to recovery as a Sober Companion and Interventionist. It was then that West devoted his time to helping Crane on her quest to provide a safe and stable environment where others suffering from trauma and addiction can find the help they need. Together, they established their world-renowned program right here in Central Florida. The Guest House, a top-notch, private, luxury facility that focuses on unraveling the tangled web of trauma and addiction has more than 50 acres at their disposal and boasts a 27-room inpatient home where clients and industry leaders from all over the world are able to put aside their worries and focus on the process of recovery. The Guest House hosts a holistic program that treats the whole person and the whole problem. Trauma, which often resides

| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | NOV 2019

in the nervous system, is often just as much a medical issue as it is a mental health issue. At The Guest House, they treat these issues with proven therapeutic techniques via a myriad of modalities that are all based on scientific analysis. This approach allows them to dig into the source of the issues, fixing the addiction and mental illness at its core. Tom Pecca, a Senior Clinical advisor at the facility explains, “Many of the addictions and mental health issues that occur—occur as the coping mechanisms of an original issue. They’re the symptomology for something that happened before.” Traumatic events, detrimental life experiences, neglect, or even natural experiences such as the deaths of parents—while some may not consider those traumatic, their experiences can still alter the way that we approach life and they can influence who we are, who we become, and what we believe. Those experiences and how we process them can create an issue in our nervous system that controls the impulses. It creates the opportunity for “I need some-

thing to make me feel different” type of scenarios. Many times you may not even know that it is happening until one day you are sitting in a situation and find yourself wondering how you got there. At The Guest House, Crane, West and their team are there to help you uncover your traumas, learn your triggers, and help you

“When people are at play—whether it’s a group activity, art, or music, or interacting with animals—they are their natural selves.”

allows Crane and her team to use a relaxed setting to get clients to open up and, without thinking, simply react to the situations placed in front of them. “Because trauma resides in the oldest part of the brain — the part that runs on instinct which doesn’t respond well to talk— so talk therapies will only get you so far,” Pecca explains. “When people are at play—whether it’s a group activity, art, or music, or interacting with animals—they are their natural selves.” It is in those moments of adventure therapy, music, cinema, meditation, and art that clinicians are able to get to the core of the issues. This type of experiential therapy program gives the team at The Guest House the ability to help clients identify their actions and show them how their trauma affects their decision-making process. From there the team can show them how to Founders Judy Crane and John West overcome those negative patterns. With activities cufind holistic ways of coping. rated from some of the most widely used and Since everyone experiences and processes proven methods of therapy, the goal of The trauma differently, the methods used during Guest House is to bring each person back to recovery are as varied as the traumas thema place of peace in every aspect of mind, body, selves. “What’s different than others in our and soul. industry is that we work on the core issues,” Their methods are in such high demand Pecca elaborates. Using experiential therapy that Crane has been asked to instruct oth-

ers in the same industry to implement The Guest House methods in their own practices. Those seeking recovery travel from all corners of the world to Central Florida to take part in The Guest House's top quality treatment. While some may need inpatient care, others may benefit from the facility’s outpatient services. Yet, before the journey can begin, one must make the decision to seek help. So how does one determine if they need help? The signs may not always be as obvious as an addiction; yet, if left untreated, can spiral into something more difficult to process. When trying to determine if you or someone you love needs help, the line can be somewhat blurred. “You want to look at how you’re functioning and how it’s working for you. When the activity in question becomes detrimental—when it starts to impact your relationships—when it starts to impact who you are as a working person—when it stops working—that’s when you seek out help.” If you or someone you love is suffering from mental illness or addiction there are those who are standing by ready to help. Judy Crane and John West have dedicated their lives to building a safe space where people from all over can come and receive the treatment and healing that they deserve. Their goal is to help others find peace and balance, to help others overcome their traumas and create a life filled with joy and love. While the road may twist and turn and have its ups and downs, The Guest House is here to help guide you on your journey towards healing. FOR INFORMATION about availability, costs, insurance, and other admissions options—or for general inquiries about treatment or The Guest House facilities, feel free to contact them at 855-483-7800.

NOV 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

THE

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Wetlands | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | NOV 2019

ater, water, everywhere…and not a drop to drink— but plenty to recharge—and the City of Ocala is doing just that with their Wetlands Groundwater Recharge Park initiative. The park is the city’s plan to make the best use of its water resources. But first, you might ask what is recharge water? Recharge is the water that drains through the soil to refill the groundwater and helps replenish the aquifer below. There are some interesting facts that you may not be aware of when it comes to water. Knowing these few simple facts will help you understand the how and why behind the Wetlands Groundwater Recharge Park project. Florida is the national leader when it comes to water reuse. With the Recharge Park groundbreaking in June of 2018, the project is well underway. The project site is a 60-acre, city-owned parcel that is adjacent to the old Pine Oaks Golf Course location in Northwest Ocala. Once up and running the park will receive treated wastewater from two of the city's water reclamation facilities and stormwater from the Old City Yard Drainage Retention Area. Up to five million gallons per day of recharge water will be added to that which was previously extracted from the Upper Floridan Aquifer, increasing the water flow at Silver Springs. At the groundbreaking ceremony, Ocala Mayor Kent Guinn said, "The Wetland Groundwater Recharge Park allows the city of Ocala to efficiently use its water resources. By developing this park, the city will create a wetland ecosystem, improve water quality, boost regional groundwater supplies and provide numerous recreational opportunities for the community." Sentiments were also shared by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s Secretary, Noah Valenstein. “The Ocala Wetland Groundwater Recharge Park is a great example of how partnerships between state, regional and local governments can benefit our environment and our communities. Working in this spirit of collaboration has not only allowed us to break ground on this important project but has helped us leverage more than $190 million in state funding over the last seven years into an investment of more than $360 million to protect and restore Florida’s iconic springs.” So, we are not only making a positive eco-

NOV 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

Did you know: • Seven billion gallons of water are consumed every day in the state of Florida. • Every day in Florida, crops use over 1.5 billion gallons of water. • Lawn care uses 900 million gallons of water every day in Florida.

logical impact on our community but the entire state of Florida! During the evaluation, design, and permitting phase in 2017, the city established the following project goals: • Replenish the aquifer with treated reclaimed water and stormwater, removing nitrogen and phosphorus to provide benefits to the Upper Floridian Aquifer and Silver Springs. • Create a setting to attract wildlife and improve the natural value of the area. • Continue to involve our community to assist in developing an educational facility with learning opportunities, and park facilities. That is the “how” which is well underway. The “why” has to do with the city’s ability to remain in compliance with regulations to reduce spring flows from both the Upper Floridian Aquifer and Silver Springs. The

| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | NOV 2019

City’s plan for the Recharge Park creates a system improves water quality and gives the aquifer the boost it needs to increase groundwater supplies. Wetland parks of these types in other communities have been known to enhance neighborhoods and some have seen an increase in property values. Those living near the park have echoed this positive position. A win-win situation for our ecosystem and property owners! I recently had the opportunity to visit with Rachel Slocumb, the City of Ocala Water Resources Conservation Coordinator to bring me us up to speed on this project. The park is nearly done! Most of the construction has been completed. Funding has been secured for the pavilion and planting of the wetlands lays just ahead. The expected completion date is currently set for the spring of 2020. In Rachel’s words, here is what you can look forward to. “The Wetland Park will feature two and a half miles of eight-foot-wide asphalt trails

Photos provided by Rachel Slocumb

• Wastewater treatment facilities in the United States process about 34 billion gallons of wastewater every day.

that are coupled with 1,500 feet of scenic boardwalks that will cross the open water ponds. These trails will be lined with educational kiosks that will explore many of the natural benefits of the park and the wildlife that will soon call it home. The park will also become a home to a variety of wildlife. Most excitedly, this park has the potential to become a true birding destination. It is already home to a vast range of bird species that includes, but isn’t limited to: Red-headed, Red-bellied and Downy Woodpeckers, Killdeer, Red-shouldered Hawk, and during migration, Hooded Mergansers. Another critter that already lives on the property is Sherman’s Fox Squirrel. These large rodents can reach lengths of up to 27.6 inches and are distinguished by their

dark coloration with white ears and a white snout. They are a Florida Species of Special Concern and their major cause of population reduction is loss of habitat. The Wetland Park will provide them an oasis.” The Wetland Groundwater Recharge Park will not only be giving back three to five million gallons of water a day to the aquifer but will also be giving Florida species another home to thrive in and the opportunity for us to enjoy and learn about them. FOR MORE INFORMATION about the park, you can visit the City of Ocala website at https://www.ocalafl.org/government/city-departments-j-z/water-resources/wetland-groundwater-recharge-park

NOV 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

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many shoppers take on chain stores with massive crowds, the best gifts can be found tucked away in standalone shops. Shopping local allows shoppers to find unique, personalized gifts while supporting local families and keeping dollars in Marion County. According to the National Retail Federation, the 2019 forecast predicts that holiday sales will be up 3.8–4.2 percent, resulting in more than a $2 billion increase. What does that mean for Ocala businesses? In short, consumer confidence is up and Americans are more likely to spend in-store and online this year. Consider using your spending power at local businesses for everyone on your shopping list.

A Gift for

Every Friend

For the Sentimental Friend: Visit downtown Ocala’s Gallery on Magnolia. Step inside this boutique to discover silk pajamas, jewelry, and, most notably, the artwork of Houston Llew. Llew’s pieces, coined “spirit tiles,” are the perfect gift for your sentimental friend. Each displays a glistening scene paired with a synonymous quote. The tiles begin with wood and are wrapped with copper and a glass infusion, then fired to create a work of art. Each tile depicts a scene for every occasion, ranging from the birth of a child to the love of a horse. Brick City Center for the Arts is an art gallery and gift shop with handmade jewelry, ceramics, photography, vintage Ocala postcards, prints, and more. Many of the pieces are the work of local artists, which adds another level of personalization to each gift. Don’t forget to strike a pose with The Brick neon sign, an iconic Ocala photo opportunity!

Finding the perfect gift from Ocala’s downtown shops. BY KAITLYN BUTLER

he holidays are a magical time in Ocala. The downtown square is illuminated with lights, the weather is crisp, and there’s a holiday party at every turn. With these parties come the expectation of festive décor, gifts, and goodies for guests. Those fortunate enough to live in and around Ocala can find all that and more at the local shops present in downtown. While

| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | NOV 2019

For the Foodie Friend: More than a quaint downtown café, Stella’s

Modern Pantry offers more than gourmet lunch options. Here you can find gifts ranging from novelty aprons to a vinrella, an umbrella in a bottle, which gives the appearance of a wine bottle. Stella’s also boasts a large variety of rare sauces, waterproof playing cards, designer mugs, perfumes, and Paddywax candles. Ocala’s Chocolate and Confections looks like a shop plucked right out of a Hallmark movie. This shop offers gourmet, exotic and custom chocolate made fresh daily. Pick a few of your favorites or ask them to create a custom holiday basket for parties or corporate gifts!

Photos by Joshua Jacobs

For the Wino Friend: The Corkscrew Winery and Brewery is just steps from Stella’s and is the perfect place for an experience gift. This winery offers a winemaking class where guests can make their own wine to take home and enjoy for years (maybe months) to come! Just around the corner from The Corkscrew Winery and Brewery, you’ll find The Keep Downtown, a premier wine and beer destination. On the first floor, you'll find a retail space that boasts a wall of premier wines and champagnes, which can be included in custom gift baskets for corporate and personal gift-giving. Upstairs you’ll find the red-carpet lounge, which is available for private holiday parties and features a full menu with wine tasting.

For the Fit Friend: If cycling is a passion, Brick City Bicycles is the perfect place to find custom bikes and gear. With so many trails around Ocala, this gift is sure to be one that brings adventure for years to come. The holidays are a time when eating

well is part of the culture, but it’s also a time of resetting and starting fresh goals. That’s where Zone Health and Fitness comes in; the gift that keeps on giving is a personal training package. With two locations in Ocala and childcare available, they make it easy to hit New Year's goals. For the Artsy Friend: Marley Mae Market is a one-stop-shop for everything eclectic and cool. This shop carries everything ranging from pop culture coloring books to all-natural beauty products. Want stocking stuffers in the form of earrings depicting Justin Timberlake’s face? This is the place to shop. For the Fashionable Friend: Looking to snag a leopard top for your friend who knows animal print is all the rage? Ivy On The Square Boutique is a cute southern boutique that carries off the shoulder rompers, light kimonos, trendy jewelry, and so much more. Just across the street from Ivy On The Square restaurant, it’s worth making the trip to shop, munch, and call it a long lunch! Searching for a fashion piece that’s truly unique? Pink Hanger Collection is a fun, vibrant boutique with new arrivals every day. It’s stocked with cutout sweaters, trendy crossbody bags, and coats that will have everyone asking for outfit details.

For the Refined Friend: At Agapanthus you’ll find PANDORA jewelry, Juliska holiday dishes, Longchamp crossbody bags, University of Florida décor and more. This shop offers custom engraving on a large variety of fine goods, which always elevates the significance of a gift. Not to mention, Agapanthus is home to Breeze Day Spa, with gift cards available for services ranging from blowouts to lash lifts. Shannon Roth Collection is a luxurious lifestyle store with home décor, gifts, clothing, and postcards. The shop is also home to Olivia & Co. Kids, a premier baby boutique, so you can shop for the whole family in one stop. Don’t forget to take a photo in front of the famous blue doors while you’re there! For the Festive Friend: No party is complete without a gorgeous floral centerpiece. The Graceful Gardener is a floral design boutique that features event design, cut floral arrangements, garden gift retail and more. While you’re there, book a workshop to design your own arrangement with friends. Ocala is comprised of these and so many more local shops. Take a day to enjoy the cool, crisp air, duck into a local restaurant for a bite to eat, choose a unique gift that loved ones will treasure for years to come, and shop local!

NOV 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

Get ready for a haute holiday season with these amazing fashion finds. From tulle dresses to diamond cuffs, overthe-top fashion with a flair for sustainability is in this season. Check out the amazing efforts these designers to create more fashion and less waste.

haute holidays 80

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H&M Conscious Exclusive Aw19 Barette $19.95

H&M Giambattista Valli X H&M Pink Tulle Dress H&M $331.00

H&M Conscious Exclusive Silver Bell Earrings H&M $49.99

H&M Giambattista Valli X Red Tulle Dress H&M $442.00

Nova Dot Ruffle Clip Dress RebeccaTaylor.com RebeccaTaylor.com Price: $595

KBH Diamond Cuff $6,750 www.kbhjewels.com

KBH Diamond Orbs $4,500 www.kbhjewels.com

NOV 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

50,000 sq. ft. Facility Thrive Group Training Gold’s Studio Gold’s Cycle GGX Group Activity Room Boxing & Kickboxing Classes Dry Sauna Lap Pool Extensive Plate Loaded Equipment Over 75 Pieces of Cardio Equipment with 21” Personal Screens Recovery Room • HydroMassage Chairs • Training Rooms • Hyper-Ice Massage Devices • Red Light Therapy

Huge Children’s Playroom Smoothie Bar Separate Core Area Circuit Area Personal Training Luxury Locker Rooms

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(352) 414-4848 Goldsocala.com

Thanksgiving Day

Let us do the cooking & You Enjoy Your Family

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Williston 352-528-5410

Taking THANKSGIVING Reservations!

Fashionable Faves True fashion goes beyond the confines of trends to give us a glimpse into the personality of the individual. Whether it’s handed-down vintage, custom-designed items, or new offthe-rack—we ask Ocala to dig into their closets and show us the pieces that make them truly unique. PHOTOGRAPHER: Ralph Demilio

Dana Demilio MODEL:

OCCUPATION: Owner of R&R Ocala Properties and operations manager of Demilio Photography. MOTHER TO: 4 amazing kids. Emma (18), Helen (14),

Asher (7) and stepdaughter Kristin (28). FAVORITE FASHION QUOTE: “Fashion is the armor to

survive everyday life.” —Bill Cunningham. FAVORITE THING ABOUT FASHION: I love how

clothes can tell people a little bit about your personality without speaking.

| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | NOV 2019

My most authentic self

I have a secret love for rap and R&B—well it might not be a secret, but I still love it—and yes, chances are, if you know me, you know I love Snoop Dogg. This is my favorite Snoop shirt I have, and you can’t rep this shirt without hoops, and the bigger the hoop, the more fly you feel. I paired it with a Gucci belt that was a gift from my husband Ralph for Valentine’s Day. I’d say I’m definitely my most authentic me in this outfit.

Proper romper

I absolutely love a romper! With the right shoes, it’s an easy fix to short-notice date night. This is one of my favorites. It's really comfy and I love the contrast of the dark background against the bright red and pink roses. I also love a deal! The shoes (Ted Baker) I got from a friend who was moving to New York and had a huge estate sale.

NOV 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

The classic black turtle neck

A staple in my closet is my Ralph Lauren black turtle neck. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a very versatile item, I wear it with jeans and boots in the winter or a skirt and booties in the fall. Here I have it paired with high-waisted, flat-front, striped pants to break up the solid black. I call these my Victoria pants, after a friend of mine who I think has a great style. The boots are knee-high Gianni Bini, I put the pants over the boots to give the outfit a continuous clean line from top to bottom.

| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | NOV 2019

Orange crush

This button-up skirt is perfect for the season. I got this at Shannon Roth’s fall sale last year. I normally wear this with a bodysuit but any top tucked in will show off your waistline. The orange asymmetrical top complements the rust-colored skirt and gives you a feeling of fall.

Tropical vibes

The whole reason I bought this top was because of the palm leaf pattern, it reminded me of growing up in South Florida. When paired with the white pants that I absolutely love, it makes the top pop. I have a thing for fun shoes so the Gianni Bini sandals have sequined pieces of tropical fruit which makes them fun. I wore this to Gloria Estefan’s restaurant in Miami when I took my oldest daughter last year for her birthday. It was the first time we’ve been home in eight years. So now, whenever I wear this, I remember the great time I had with Emma.

NOV 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

Your Local Estate Buyer

We Buy Diamonds and Watches

Guy and Elaine Lemieux, Owners

live

Gracious Central Florida Living Photo by Ralph Demilio

Everything Equine p90 | State of the City p92 | Charity p94

NOV 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

LIVE

everything equine

Tiny and Moonshadow Reunited at the Ocala All-Breed Horse Expo BY LOUISA BARTON

All-Breed Equine Expo N

ovember 7, 2019 marks the inaugural All-Breed Horse Expo at the downtown market in Ocala. The annual Parade of Nations and Breeds in the spring has been a resounding success in the past few years and has successfully showcased a number of the beautiful horse breeds who call Ocala home.

With over 60 breeds here in “the Horse Capital”, and more horses per square mile than anywhere else, it seems

| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | NOV 2019

appropriate to celebrate the horses more than once a year and not only during the Parade. The existing “Ocala Eats” community event at the Downtown Market on 405 Osceola Avenue every Thursday evenings is already well attended from 5-9 p.m. each week. With great food trucks offering delicious options for an easy supper after school or work for families, a band playing, and sometimes even a mechanical bull for fun rides, the event

This all-breed horse expo will become an annual event and offer opportunities for people to meet and talk to horse owners and breeders while learning more about the variety of breeds in this area.

Photos courtesy of Louisa Barton

The key to success is to bring the horse world and the non-horse world together. has offered a wonderful stop on the way home for all who have come by. Themes include anything from pirates, to an Octoberfest and an all-breed dogs event too, but the opportunity to meet horses face to face has a very special draw for people of all ages and from all walks of life. This all-breed horse expo, hosted by Ocala Eats, will become an annual event and offer opportunities for people to meet and talk to horse owners and breeders while learning more about the variety of breeds in this area. Owners lead their horses around the market area and a photo backdrop area offers the perfect location to meet a horse up close face to face,

and grab a selfie or take photographs. Horse breeds include a huge Percheron, one who many are familiar with, from seeing carriage driver Kimie, of Horse Country Carriage Company & Tours, as she passes by in the downtown. The Percheron’s name is Tiny Prince Charming and he isn’t very “tiny”! Tiny had the opportunity to meet Gentle Carousel’s Miniature therapy horse, Moonshadow, during the Parade of Nations and Breeds this year. This event reunites the two friends, while showcasing other incredible horses for a wonderful evening with a Thoroughbred, a Quarter Horse, a Welsh Pony, a Paso Fino, a

Gypsy Vanner, a Mustang, a Friesian, an Irish Sport Horse and more. The Ocala All-Breed Expo is part of the initiative of the Ocala, Marion County Chamber and Economic Partnership to bridge the gap between the city and the farm and equine world. Our Chamber is the only known Chamber in the world to have an initiative dedicated only to the equine world and to our farms, horse show venues, breeders, trainers, owners and riders, creating an awareness of the importance of this industry in our community. The key to success is to bring the horse world and the non-horse world together to be a catalyst for their success, while protecting the farm, educating the people about horses and advocating for them all. This event is free for the general public and will be very informative and educational to the younger generations. A breed table to share information about your horse breed is also free and for a vendor table, it is only $25 for the entire evening. With food raffle prizes, pony bingo, horse trivia and horseshoes, you are welcome to come out and enjoy horsing around with some of the finest horses in Marion County. We plan to continue to grow this event for many years to come.

NOV 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

LIVE

state of the city City Council Member Mary Sue Rich Prepares to retire. BY ASHLEY DOBBS

very day the City of Ocala is guided by those who go above and beyond the call of duty. They are true leaders who selflessly guide our city through the ups and downs that come with time. While many people claim the title of leader, it takes a person with true dedication and passion to provide leadership. Mary Sue Rich is the very definition of a leader. A City of Ocala council member for District 2 since November of 1995, Rich has defined what it takes to be a leader for over two decades. Her commitment to our community has led to serving on countless boards over the years and directly contributing to the City of Ocala’s quest for business growth, community support, and above all, racial harmony. As an Ocala native, Mary Sue Rich has seen the city grow and change throughout the years, and her involvement in helping others has always been a primary goal in her personal and professional life. A retired correctional probation senior supervisor for the Florida Department of Corrections, she has also served on the Judicial Nominating Commission and the Weed and Seed Task Force. She has been a driving force behind the Racial Harmony Task Force, which sponsors “One Ocala One America,” a weeklong celebration that highlights the diversity within the city of Ocala. Each year during the annual Unity breakfast, the Mary Sue Rich Diversity Award is given out to those who have distinguished themselves by promoting racial harmony or cultural awareness in the community. It encompasses the values that Mrs. Rich preaches in her everyday life. After 24 years of dedicated public service to the City of Ocala, Mary Sue will be retiring in December 2019. The City of Ocala will host a retirement party in the upcoming months to celebrate her lifelong achievements. All proceeds from ticket sales, along with donations, will go to the Mary Sue Rich Scholarship Fund to help future generations become the next set of leaders within our community. The city hopes to maintain the legacy that Rich has created over the years. Mary Sue Rich is an elected official who has challenged the community to tackle

| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | NOV 2019

Honoring a TrueLeader

the tough issues and helped redefine what it means to be a council member through her leadership and hands-on approach. She is a champion for the people who work for the City of Ocala, and a voice to those who may have felt as though they didn’t have one in our city. Above all, she is a cherished friend

whose quick wit and thoughtful ideas will be missed during each City Council meeting. Although she may be retiring from her duties as a public servant, she will forever be known as one of the great leaders in Ocala— even bigger and better than any definition a dictionary could provide.

COMING NOVEMBER 2020

Special OM 40th Anniversary Edition

The White Charity Register Join us in Celebrating our 40th anniversary in 2020 at our CHARITY REGISTER WHITE PARTY GRAND EVENT. Reserve Your Ad Placement Now â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Space Is Limited. More Information On Our White Party Will Be Forthcoming.

TO RESERVE AND ENSURE YOUR PLACEMENT, PLEASE CALL (352) 622-2995 EXT. 303

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When Talent Meets

Opportunity Ocala Resident Jodi Doher Helps At-Risk Students Secure Their Spot In Higher Learning

BY MELISSA DESKOVIC

ach year the Marion County school system celebrates the graduation of thousands of its students. For many, it’s a culmination of years of hard work finally paying off as they look toward the beginning of their collegiate experience. Yet for others, it is a time of uncertainty as the path before them remains undecided. With little guidance, first-generation college students often get left behind and this is exactly what the Talent Search program is attempting to fix. Each month Jodi Doher, an advising specialist with the Talent Search Program, works with 350 of those students to help them create a plan for their future. “The goal of the program [TRIO Talent Search] is to help at-risk students go on to post-secondary school. It can be a vocational school, college, university, any of the above,” she explains. Whether the student’s uncertainty stems from a lack of financial funding or an abundance of confusion about the post-secondary application process, Doher’s goal is to help as many students as she can achieve their scholastic dreams. “For these students [in the program], they have multiple obstacles to overcome particularly because no one in their family has gone to college so they don’t have anyone to take them along that path.” A federal grant–funded program provided by the College of Central Florida, Florida Gateway College, and Santa Fe College, TRIO Talent Search has been in operation locally since 1994. “Until I went for my interview for this position, I never realized that I met the criteria for a TRIO student myself. As a first-generation college student, it really brought to light for me that I really connect with these kids because I’ve been down the

path myself.” Doher works closely with each student and their families from the time the student is in their first year of high school to the time that they enter the college of their choosing. “When I speak to someone, I refer to them [program participants] as my kids. You know they’re not students or participants to me, they’re my kids. They become special to me. A lot of times they’ll go on to college or university and they’ll still call me when they have an issue and it’s nice that they feel they have someone they can turn to that can help them.” Within minutes of meeting Doher, you instantly understand why those who have successfully gone through the program speak so highly of her. She is kind and welcoming to everyone, an important trait when it comes to mentoring teenagers. “I think in terms of what I do, my social work background helps me out very well. With the student population I work with, they have their own barriers. There are things that hold us back from achieving our goals and it is different for all of us.” The program itself is designed to help teens overcome those obstacles. From career exploration to mentoring programs, there is no aspect of the college admission process that they do not walk you through. “I see the benefits of the program: number one being information sharing.” For parents that have not been to college themselves, this is one of the most vital aspects of the process. For the students, it helps them gain the self-confidence needed to approach the college experience with a fresh outlook. When talent and opportunity come together, success is born and that is the goal of the Talent Search program—giving talented students the opportunity to see just how far they can go.

“I was always interested in attending college but wasn’t sure how I could afford it. Educational Talent Search gave me the tools and resources I needed to advance my education. Mrs. Jodi provided insight on college admission and financial aid applications. I graduated with my bachelor’s with $0 in student loans all thanks to the knowledge this program provided. Now, I am in my second year of medical school and looking to come back to the Ocala area after graduation.” Sarah Hicks “Jodi Doher with the Educational Talent search program has helped me become the student I am today. She has wanted me, and all of her students, to succeed from the beginning. Without her help, I would’ve been lost. In high school, I was worried about making sure I took the right classes so I was on track to get into college. With Mrs. Jodi’s help, I didn’t have to worry because she always was there for us if we had any questions and always had an answer. She was always checking in on her students and finding something that would be of benefit for the student. Mrs. Jodi helped me always stay on top of scholarships, making sure I knew how to prepare myself to do my financial aid on time. She is truly an amazing person and I don’t know how I would’ve gotten through preparing for college without her!” Desirey Morel

NOV 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

CELEBRATE THE OCCASION at the Holiday Inn and Conference Center

WEDDINGS • PRIVATE EVENTS • CORPORATE MEETINGS From a private meeting for five to an event for 400, Holiday Inn & Suites Ocala Conference Center is the perfect gathering place.

3600 SW 38th Ave., Ocala, FL 34474

352-629-9500 or email CorporateSales@HinnOcala.com

eat

Savory Cheddar Waffles â&#x20AC;&#x201D; recipe on ocalamagazine.com Photo and recipe by RSVP Robin

On the Menu: Big Hammock Brewery p98 | Apple of My Pie p100 | Dining Out p104

NOV 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

on the menu

SipMySustainably, Friends BY ILIA LABOY

Jason Delaney grew up in south Marion County and has always had an interest in food and beer. With the help of business partner Tim Thomas, they marry passion and sustainability to gift the community with Big Hammock Brewery.

ason Delaney, co-owner of Big Hammock Brewery, got his introduction to the official inner workings of the beer industry while working at Infinite Ale Works, where he was employed for about five years. A couple of years back, Jason and his current business partner Tim Thomas, owner of Brooklynâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Backyard, began mulling over the idea of doing something together with food and beer. Around this time last year, they were approached about taking over the loca-

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tion at 103 SE First Ave. Although it wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t part of their plans at the moment, they began to brainstorm details and forge a face for their collaborative business idea. They both came up with Big Hammock as one of their naming options and the rest, as they say, was history. Jason brought with him all his craft beer knowledge while Tim supplied the culinary and restaurateur wisdom and the Big Hammock Brewery and Bites was born. When thinking of bar food the first

thing that comes to mind is burgers, pizza, or even something fried, but Big Hammock is fusing light and nutritious asian-inspired flavors with local Florida brews. They carry beers from Infinite Ale Works from time to time and support Florida brewing by carrying craft beers from Gainesville and Crystal River, like drafts from Swamp Head Brewery and First Magnitude Brewing Company. The beer selection covers a wide spectrum of tastes, everything from robust and bold fla-

Photos by Joshua Jacobs

EAT

Photo by Joshua Jacobs

vors like the DuClaw Sweet Baby Jesus Peanut Butter Porter, to lighter and citrus-like notes present in Cigar City Lager. With 12 guest taps available and at least one cider on tap at all times, the goal is to provide a wide variety of options so that even the most inexperienced beer drinker can have something within their flavor profile. The options don’t end with their beer though. Enjoy a light bite like the Bao, more commonly known as steamed buns, made with sweet and pillowy bao buns, crunchy and tangy slaw, melt in your mouth pork belly topped with a bright sunshine sauce. Also try the Cong You Bing, a savory scallion pancake stuffed with sauteed mushrooms, onions and roasted peppers, smokey gouda cheese, melty white american and your choice of marinated chicken thigh, smoked pork butt, slow roasted pot roast, or seasoned stir fried tofu with a side of creamy and spicy dipping sauce. If you’re in the mood for a more substantial meal, take your pick of stacked sandwiches or go straight for the ramen bowls. Packed full of goodies, this is definitely not the ramen most commonly seen in college. Here you have your choice of Miso or Shonyu broth, which is soy based, al dente wheat noodles, enoki mushrooms, scallions, crunchy bamboo shoots, nori, and

a perfectly cooked soy marinated 6-minute egg. No matter what you end up choosing from their menu, each bite is sure to hit every note with an asian flare. Previously home to Lunch Box, the physically modest space was perfect for an environmentally conscious business like Big Hammock. Jason and Tim knew that although they had a small space to work with, their minimalist approach to the nostalgic old florida theme and attention to detail would make all the difference. Knowing there would be no space for a fully equipped back of the kitchen where they could store mass amounts of plates and cutlery, Jason and Tim looked for options that would fit into both their space and philosophy, and decided to make all of their disposable onetime-use items biodegradable. The plates are made of environmentally friendly plant fiber and all of their plastic cups, straws, and cutlery are made of biodegradable corn-based plastic. The only dishes reused and stored on location are a limited quantity of bowls for the ramen. “It was important to us, if we’re going to have to dispose of them, we make them to where they’d break down and wouldn’t be in a landfill for 10,000 years,” shared Jason. Since innovation leads to progress, Jason and Tim are currently looking to the fu-

ture of Big Hammock and how to improve on an already awesome product and experience. Right now they are in the process of opening the nano brewery portion of the establishment, but if things move according to plan, Ocala may see the first batch of Big Hammock brew go into production within the year! They are also hoping to open another location in the near future where they can install a bigger brewing system and begin some distributions, while keeping the current location as their tap house. The main goal at Big Hammock is to always provide a quality experience, and while the brew and food prep are hugely important, but the real difference is made by their quality service. Jason believes that having a strong and skilled staff that can provide superior service is key. He hires staff able to master the technical aspects, like properly serving a craft beer, and demonstrates the knowledge to educate the customer and introduce them to new flavors. Ocala Magazine has recently brought some attention to the issue of environmental conservation, but coming across a local business with a cool concept, yummy food, and a conscience is definitely a breath of fresh air. Big Hammock features a delicious helping of asian inspired flavors and great craft beer selections to compliment. The location is intimate and inviting, the food delicious, and the craft beer refreshing.The staff is extremely knowledgeable and capable of making a beer connoisseur out of even the most novice beer drinker. Perfectly located right in the middle of historic downtown Ocala, Big Hammock is the perfect marriage between old Florida charm and modern business models where sustainability plays a major role. If you want to nerd out about craft beer and enjoy some delightful food, go visit Jason Delaney at Big Hammock Brewery. You will not be disappointed! DID YOU KNOW? There is a correct way to drink beer to fully appreciate all the notes and flavors it has to offer. Ask to be educated on it at Big Hammock Brewery.

NOV 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

Apple

of My Pie The expression “An apple a day, keeps the doctor away” is not entirely just a cliché. If you omit the cheddar cheese or ice cream (see more on this below) an apple packs a powerful nutritional punch. These heart-healthy, cancer-fighting, liver cleansing powerhouses are a dieter’s dream. Most of the nutrition is actually in the peel. However, many commercial growers rely heavily on pesticides, so if you want to eat the peel don’t panic, just go organic. STORY, RECIPES, AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY RSVP ROBIN

find that after indulging in summer’s wide variety of available fruit, there is something very refreshing and healthy about a big, crisp apple. Apples are the quintessential fall fruit and they lend themselves to many of the fall recipes we depend on during this season. Their versatility is endless, from breakfast cereals to main course dinner recipes, and everything in-between. Apples are definitely essential

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for anyone’s fall baking repertoire. A favorite snack in our house is a rich wedge of sharp cheddar cheese accompanied by crisp, tart, sweet apple slices. A thick slice of cheddar melted on top of a piece of apple pie is not too bad either! For a long time, this was the preferred way to eat apple pie in many parts of America, especially in states famous for their cheese making like Wisconsin and Vermont. There is also the

option of baking the cheddar into the piecrust. Yum! It wasn’t until the 1800s that the French term “á la mode” became popular in this country. There is however no evidence that the French actually topped their tartes aux pommes with ice cream. At any rate, many American families have their own apple pie recipe that has been passed down from generation to generation. How does your family enjoy eating apples?

Classic APPLE PIE INGREDIENTS For the crust: »» »» »» »» »»

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon sugar 2 sticks chilled unsalted butter, cut into pieces 4-8 tablespoons ice water

INSTRUCTIONS

1. To make the dough for the pie crust, mix 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon each salt and sugar in a medium-size bowl. Cut 2 sticks chilled unsalted butter into pieces. With a pastry blender, cut in butter, working until mixture resembles coarse meal. 2. Add 4 tablespoons ice water; work with hands until dough comes together. If dough is still crumbly, add more ice water a tablespoon at a time (up to 4 more tablespoons). Do not overwork. 3. Divide dough in half, and flatten halves into disks. Wrap disks separately in plastic; refrigerate at least 1 hour. 4. To form the pie shell, roll one of the dough disks on a floured surface into a 14-inch round. Wrap around rolling pin and carefully unroll over a 9-inch pie plate. 5. Fit gently into bottom and side of plate. Use kitchen shears to trim dough to a 1-inch overhang; fold under, and seal to form a rim. 6. Roll our second dough disk into a 14-inch round. Set aside.

For the apple pie:

»» 4 lb. (2 kg) Granny Smith apples, peeled, quartered and cored »» Grated zest of 1 lemon »» Grated zest of 1 orange »» 2 Tbs. fresh lemon juice »» 1 Tbs. fresh orange juice »» 1/2 cup (4 oz./125 g) sugar, plus 1 tsp. to sprinkle on top »» 1/4 cup (1 1/2 oz./45 g) all-purpose flour »» 1 tsp. kosher salt »» 3/4 tsp. ground cinnamon »» 1/2 tsp. ground nutmeg »» 1/8 tsp. ground allspice »» 1 egg beaten with 1 Tbs. water for egg wash

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat an oven to 400°F (200°C). 2. Cut each apple quarter in thirds crosswise and combine in a bowl with the zests, juices, sugar,

flour, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg and allspice. 3. Fill the prepared pie crust with the apple mixture. Brush the edge of the bottom pie crust with the egg wash so the top crust will adhere. Top with the second crust and trim the edges to about 1 inch (2.5 cm) over the rim. Tuck the edge of the top crust under the edge of the bottom crust and crimp the two together with your fingers or

a fork. Brush the entire top crust with the egg wash, sprinkle with 1 tsp. sugar and cut four or five slits. 4. Place the pie on a sheet pan and bake for 1 to 1 1/4 hours, or until the crust is browned and the juices begin to bubble out. Serve warm. Makes one 9-inch pie.

NOV 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

10 1

French APPLE CAKE INGREDIENTS »» »» »» »» »» »» »» »» »» »» »» »» »»

1 cup all-purpose flour ¾ teaspoon ground cardamom ¾ teaspoon baking powder ¼ teaspoon kosher salt 2 large eggs, at room temperature ¾ cup granulated sugar 3 tablespoons Calvados (apple brandy) ½ teaspoon vanilla extract ¹/₃ cup well-shaken buttermilk, at room temperature 3 medium apples 1 stick unsalted butter, melted and cooled, plus more for greasing the pan 1 tablespoon turbinado sugar Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting

INSTRUCTIONS 1. Preheat the oven to 350ºF 2. Place a piece of parchment paper into an 8- or 9-inch cast-iron pan and grease it with butter. 3. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cardamom, baking powder, and salt. Set aside. 4. In a separate large bowl, beat the eggs until foamy. Whisk in the granulated sugar, calvados and vanilla extract. Pour in the buttermilk and whisk to combine. 5. Peel, halve, and core 2½ of the apples, then cut them into ½-inch-thick cubes. 6. Reserve the remaining half apple, unpeeled, and cut it into ¼-inch slices, for the top. 7. Add half of the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined, then gently fold in half of the melted butter. Repeat with the remaining flour mixture and melted butter. 8. Gently fold in the cubed apples, reserving the slices. Transfer the batter to the pan and arrange the apples slices in a circular pattern on top of the batter. Sprinkle with the turbinado sugar. 9. Bake until the cake turns a deep golden brown and a cake tester inserted in the center comes out clean, 55 to 65 minutes. Transfer the skillet to a cooling rack and let it sit for 5 minutes. 10. Dust the cake with confectioners’ sugar before serving.

DID YOU KNOW?

There are 7,500 apple varieties grown around the world? It’s true, and there are over 2,500 apple varieties grown in the United States alone. Apple is the state fruit for Minnesota, New York, Vermont, Washington, and West Virginia. Pretty impressive!

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DID YOU KNOW?

Crisp

APPLE CHIPS These chips are great on a cheese board, in salads or just for snacking!

INGREDIENTS »» »» »» »»

2 apples 2 tablespoons granulated xugar 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon Preheat oven to 200ºF. Line two sheet pans with silicone mats or parchment paper.

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Core apples if desired, then slice thinly with a mandoline. Lay slices side-by-side in an even layer on the mat or parchment, then sprinkle sugar and cinnamon evenly all over apple slices. 2. Bake apples for about 1 1/2 hours to 2 hours, until apples are no longer gummy and are dry to the touch. The apple slices will get crispy as they cool.

Poor families in Scandinavian countries would offer payment to teachers with baskets of apples and potatoes. Then, of course, there is the biblical reference to the Garden of Eden in which Eve picked the forbidden fruit from “the tree of knowledge." On Rosh Hashanah, it is customary for Jewish families to eat apples dipped in honey, which represents what is good and sweet in the New Year.

NOV 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

10 3

EAT

dining

OUT West 82° Bar and Grill Enjoy an evening under the stars at the Plantation on Crystal River. A short drive to enjoy dinner overlooking Kings Bay and Crystal River featuring the finest natural local ingredients. Start your evening with a cocktail at our Tiki Bar and you might just see some specials guest swim by, manatees or just relax and watch the sunset. Come inside to West 82 and enjoy your dining with your friends and family.

Join us for Sunday Brunch with the traditional breakfast favorites and an impressive assortment of fresh salads, peel and eat shrimp and Chef’s specialty dinner selections. Every Sunday from 11:30am to 2:00pm

Breakfast Daily 6am-10:30am | Lunch Mon –Sat: 11:30am-2:00pm Dinner Daily 5pm-9pm | Sunday Brunch 11:30am-2pm 9301 West Fort Island Trail, Crystal River, FL 34429 352-795-4211 www.plantationoncrystalriver.com

Milano Ristorante Italiano NOW OPEN! Featuring authentic cuisine. Dishes enjoyed for generations in villages throughout Italy inspire our menu. We strive to use the finest ingredients to create dishes in line with our family tradition. All of our food, including our pizza dough, will be made fresh daily. We offer 7 distinct seating areas that will take you to different cities in Italy. Passion for good food and wine runs deep in our family, and we are thrilled to bring our authentic Italian recipes to the Ocala area! Open Daily 11am-9pm 5400 SW College Road Unit 106 Ocala, FL 34474 | (352) 304-8549 www.milanofamilyrestaurant.com

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Suleiman Family Establishment NEW Italian Restaurant. Ingredients Made Fresh Daily. Authentic Italian Family Recipes. Express Takeout & Delivery

dining out

EAT

Tony’s Sushi Sushi Me! At Tony’s Sushi you can select your favorite sushi to include made-to-order specialty rolls by creating your own! Enjoy being entertained at the grill, watching your food being prepared while having some fun. For a more intimate setting, Tony’s offers private tables – perfect for special moments. Tony’s full bar includes sakes, imported draft beer & more. Like Tony’s on Facebook at www.facebook.com/TonySushiOcala

Ask about our daily, not on the menu items! We offer gift cards, catering and entertaining.

Mon-Thur 11a-10p, Fri & Sat 11a - 11p, Sun 12p - 10p 3405 SW College Rd. #103 Ocala, FL 34474 | 352-237-3151 www.tonyssushi.com

Ivy On The Square As fall fast approaches we invite you to come enjoy a Pumpkin Martini and your favorite meal in our beautiful dining room decorated for the fall holidays. Gather with friends and families for lunch or a night out. Enjoy fresh salads, mouthwatering comfort food, late night tapas adn drinks. Specials include Southern Fried Lobster, hand-cut steaks and our famous Baked Krispy Chicken. Save room for our delicious Pumpkin Pie. Our boutique will also be decorated in beautiful fall decor, what a great time to stroll through our beautiful boutique seeing the latest in gifts and home decor.

Taking Thanksgiving Reservations Now. Stop by and enjoy cocktails on our beautiful patio or at the bar. Gift cards available.

Named by Florida Trend as one of the “Top 500 Best Places to Eat in the State” for several years. Call for catering info. 53 S. Magnolia Ave., Ocala | 352-622-5550 Tues - Sat 11am-9pm | Dining | Thurs - Sat 9pm -Til... | Tapas & Cocktails 106 NW Main St., Williston | 352-528-5410 Sun-Wed 11am-2pm, Thurs-Sat 11am-8pm | ivyhousefl.com

Cafe Crisp Faith. Fitness. Food. Conveniently located in the Frank DeLuca YMCA, Cafe Crisp makes clean eating easy with fresh, healthy meals – to enjoy at the cafe or to take home - and they offer weekly meal prep packages that make it easy to stay on track with meals and snacks. Cafe Crisp also caters events large or small! Stop in for a smoothie before your workout and come back for delicious sandwiches, soups and salad bar.

Ask about our weekly meal prep specials

Mon-Fri 7a–6p 3200 SE 17th st (in the YMCA), Ocala, FL 34471 | 352-694-3100 www.facebook.com/cafecrispocala NOV 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

10 5

EAT

dining out

Sky Fine Dining Sky Fine Dining is located on the 6th floor of the Holiday Inn Suites. The eclectic gourmet cuisine & steak house concept is inspired from current trends & classic dishes like fresh cut steaks, live Maine lobster, rack of lamb & fresh seafood such as sea bass, salmon & shrimp. Golden Spoon Award Winner 9 consecutive years - 2010 to 2018. Sky is the place to be for a unique fine dining experience.

Golden Spoon Award Winner 9 consecutive years! 2010 to 2018

Special menu Wednesday through Saturday.

FRIDAY SEAFOOD NIGHT AND SATURDAY STEAK NIGHT

Mon-Thurs 5pm-10pm, Fri & Sat 5p-11p 3600 SW 38th Ave., Ocala, fl 34474 | 352-291-0000 www.skyfinedining.com

Fine Dining

The Lodge Craft Pub & Eatery The Lodge Craft Pub and Eatery is Downtown’s new gastropub for cocktails, food and fun! Follow The Lodge Ocala on Facebook for announcements about menu items and specials. We have more than 200 craft brews, a large wine selection and specialty food menus. This casual pub and eatery is located just off the downtown square, so you can take advantage of free valet service. We’ll see you soon at The Lodge! Sun-Thurs 11:30a–11p, Fri-Sat 11:30a–2a 36 SE Magnolia, Ocala, FL 34471 www.facebook.com/thelodgeocala

Murphy’s Oyster & Seafood Murphy’s is so much more than an oyster bar! Stop in for daily lunch and dinner specials. Grab a happy hour drink and stay to watch the game. Sit back and enjoy live music or join in the fun with karaoke. Relax with friends on the outdoor Hookah Patio. At Murphy’s we pride ourselves on serving great food along with a great experience. Our fresh seafood is the best in town, and we also o er a full menu with your favorite appetizers, burgers, salads and steaks.

Mon - Sun 11a - 12a Happy Hour 11a - 7p 3821 Old Blitchton Rd, Ocala, FL 34482 | (352) 236-5656 www.murphysocala.com

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DAILY SPECIALS JUMBO SNOW CRAB DINNER DOMESTIC DRAFTS, COORS LIGHT, MILLER LIGHT $2.75

PROOF Date: 15 Sep 2016 Customer PO: TBD Customer No.: 344 Order No: MM 344-01

Oyster • Seafood Bar and Grille

phone

352.304.5414 | 609.408.8959 | email SamGrafx@comcast.net

dining out

EAT

Ipanema Brazilian Steakhouse Join us for Thanksgiving Dinner we are open 11:00 am -6:30pm.We will serve a traditional Thanksgiving Dinner (Turkey, stuffing, green bean casserole, sweet potato) along with our regular Rodizio. (No beef or pork ribs) We have a holiday set price of $44.95 per person, children 6-12 are $14.95 ( no discounts of any kind)

Our Sunday Brunch from 11a to 3p includes the 50 item salad bar plus crepe, waffle and omelet station. For $32.95 you’ll receive all of the above plus a free mimosa or bloody Mary and five different cuts of meat and our grilled pineapple.

Redeem our Holiday Gift Cards at our family of restaurants. Ask us about our bonus gift cards! Our NEW 3’s Catering Company brought to you buy our family of restaurants Ipanema, Latinos YMas and Craft Cuisine. 3sCateringCompany.com

2023 S Pine Avenue, Ocala | (352) 622-1741 | ipanemaocala.com Lunch Friday 11a-2:30p › Brunch Sunday 11a-3p Dinner Tue-Thu 5p-9p › Fri-Sat 5p-10p › Sun 4p-8p

Latinos Y Mas The holiday season is fast approaching at Latinos Y Mas. Give the gifts of memories made around a table of great food. Our restaurant is the perfect atmosphere for business lunches, family lunches or romantic dinners. Since 1991, Latinos y Mas restaurant has been serving our valued customers in Ocala and surroundings. Mondays- Kids Eat Free with purchase of an adult entree. Taco Tuesdays- Margarita choice of chicken or beef tacos with a side of beans and rice Wednesday- 2 x 1 sangria and 1/2 price appetizer with a purchase of two dinner entrees. Thursday- Queso bites or Fish bites for $5 along with our NEW Peruvian Thursdays Friday- Ropa Vieja Lunch Special! $10.95 Saturday- Mofongo, Sancocho Happy hour 3 to 7pm Monday-Thursday 2 for 1 house margarita 2 for 1 house wine

Our NEW 3’s Catering Company brought to you buy our family of restaurants Ipanema, Latinos Y Mas and Craft Cuisine. 3sCateringCompany.com Redeem our Holiday Gift Cards at our family of restaurants. Ask us about our bonus gift cards!

2030 South Pine Avenue, Ocala, FL 34471 | (352) 622-4777 www.latinosymas.com Mon-Thurs 11am - 9pm | Fri & Sat 11am-10pm | Sun closed

Craft Cuisine Craft Cuisine World-Inspired Culinary Creations invites you to join us for our weekly specials or book your in-house gatherings, private parties, weddings or off-premise catering today! •Mouthwatering Monday: Build your own 4-course menu, selections from $14-, 17, 20. •Tuesday Laidies Night: Complementary glass of well drink or glass of wine with any Tapa or dinner entree. $3 Margaritas and 2-4-1 Martinis •Wine Down Wednesday: From 4-7p order, a charcuterie board paired with house wine for $10. Complementary glass of wine with any dinner entree. •Thursday: Half Chicken “Cog au vin.” •Friday: Prime Rib •Sangria Saturdays: $5 all-day brunch specials from 11a-3p endless mimosas $10. Veal Osso Bucco Happy Hour Monday to Thursday: 3-6pm $4 wine, 5 single well drinks, $6 Martinis and $5 tapas selection.

Reserve your Thanksgiving dinner with us. Special Dinners will be served from 11:30-4:00 on Thanksgiving Day. For All Catering Needs: 3’s Catering Company and Craft Cuisine Is Your Event Venue. *We will close to the public for special parties and events Golden Spoon Award Winner!

10 7

11/02 Seckond Chaynce Tickets start at $20 18+ show

11/02 Bubba Sparxxx Tickets start at $17 18+ show

718 S PINE AVE OCALA, FL 34471 | RAWHYDELIVE.COM

play

Detail of “To Uncertainty” by Justin Alsedek Oil on Canvas | For sale at the Magnolia Art Xchange’s Artini event on November 7, 2019. Tickets available at www.maxocala.org/events Local Music Scene — Becky Sinn p94 | Socially Speaking p96

NOV 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

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PLAY

music scene TELL US ABOUT THE VERY FIRST SONG YOU EVER WROTE. It was a percussive, rhythmic, strummy song, it almost sounded Celtic. I think it was called Widow. I was only 15 or so when I wrote it. HOW HAS YOUR SONGWRITING PROCESS CHANGED SINCE THAT FIRST SONG? Back then, writing was about discovering guitar chords. As I was learning, I would come up with little chord progressions first and then write lyrics. Now, it’s the opposite, I will often come up with a concept and lyrics first, then fill in the music.

BY MELISSA DESKOVIC

Local Musician Becky Sinn discusses the inspirations behind her original brand of music.

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| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | NOV 2019

TELL US ABOUT THE EVOLUTION OF “BECKY SINN” AS A PERSONA. Becky Sinn was a stage name given to me by a local music legend, Chris Morgridge. I used to sing backup for him during his shows at O’Malley’s Alley. He would introduce me by saying, “If singing is a sin, Becky is the worst sinner I know.” The name stuck and Becky Sinn evolved over the years as a way for me to be a little darker and funnier than I would’ve been otherwise. I was once a very shy artist and performer. Having a stage name was like having an alter ego that could get away with saying or doing things I wouldn’t normally be brave enough to say or do.

YOUR LATEST ALBUM LAMB AND LIONESS DELVES INTO THE VARYING STAGES OF EMOTIONAL CONNECTION BETWEEN TWO PEOPLE. DO YOU FIND THAT EACH SONGWRITING PHASE HAS A THEME THAT SURFACES DURING THE CREATIVE PROCESS OR DO YOU MEN-

Photos courtesy of Rebecca Hudson

Sinn Original

WHO ARE SOME OF THE ARTISTS THAT HAVE HEAVILY INFLUENCED YOUR SOUND? WHAT WAS IT ABOUT THEM THAT DREW YOU IN? Growing up, my parents listened to old country and golden oldies, so I was more influenced by them than I realized as a kid. I do a lot of covers of that stuff now, but, when I first started playing guitar, I was obsessed with Nirvana. I loved the quality of Kurt’s voice and the hooky pop sensibility of the music. It was so raw at times but also so catchy and melodic. My dad showed me my first chords on his guitar, but it was Kurt Cobain on MTV’s Nirvana Unplugged that showed me what I really wanted to play then I learned tablature from guitar magazines. Vocally though, as bad as I wanted to be a singer for a metal or grunge band, my voice was too pretty. My biggest vocal influence was Björk. She has such a powerful and unique voice. Singing along with her as a budding artist definitely developed my vocal range and influenced my style. I also listened to a lot of Billie Holiday and Ella Fitzgerald in high school and sometimes hear a touch of them when I sing with my jazz band Swing Theory. All of those women have powerful, almost other worldly voices. I couldn’t help but be drawn to them.

TALLY DETERMINE THE THEME WHEN SITTING DOWN TO WRITE? Those songs poured out. Most of them started as little private jokes or funny ideas. The theme of love just surfaced. It was a body of work that spanned a relationship, the songs are these messages to my love who didn’t quite love me back the way I wanted. It’s so beautiful and funny and heartbreaking because I was writing from experiences that were happening to me. Themes just kind of evolve naturally as I go along sometimes. It’s way tougher to choose a theme and write in it. IN EACH SONG, THERE ARE HINTS OF THEATRICALITY WOVEN THROUGHOUT YOUR ALBUM FROM THE COVER ART TO THE SONGS THEMSELVES. DOES THE THEATER HAVE AN IMPORTANT PART IN YOUR CREATIVE PROCESS? I am a dramatic person. I am easily moved. I love grand, sweeping, breathtaking romance. I love comedy and tragedy. A breeze or a tender moment may move me to tears. I have always loved live music and art and theater. It’s just a part of my being. I have been very fortunate to always be surrounded by some form of the arts. So yes, there is always a little element of theater, mostly due to the amazing community of artists, musicians, and performers that I am honored to call my friends. THE COVER FOR YOUR ALBUM IS TRULY A WORK OF ART. HOW INVOLVED ARE YOU IN THAT PROCESS AND WHAT GOES INTO DECIDING WHAT WILL BE ON THE COVER? Thank you! The cover photo of me was taken by my longtime friend, independent filmmaker and photographer Erica Summers. I told her I wanted to do a photoshoot inspired by Norma Jeane’s playboy shoot, but not nude, I wanted to be covered up with the red sheets. The collage was created by me. This album was all about epic romance. The most romantic era for me, and my most favorite, is the Victorian Era. I collect antiques and Victorian trade cards and valentines. It’s an aesthetic I have always been drawn to. All of the images in the collage are scans of real antique Victorian ephemera from a website called The Graphics Fairy. There are little tributes to my relationship all woven in the

cover art, especially Paris and Coney Island references. I knew I wanted it to be a Victorian collage early on. It took quite a while to move all the pieces into the perfect places, but I designed it myself in Photoshop. DURING YOUR SETS, YOU MIX UP BOTH ORIGINAL SONGS AND COVERS. HOW DO YOU GO ABOUT CHOOSING WHICH COVERS YOU WILL PERFORM? The covers I pick are just songs I love. As far as choosing what to play, it’s all about reading the room. I try to tailor my sets to the venue. At places that are a little edgier, I feel a little freer to play some of my more scandalous originals and covers. Family-friendly places tend to steer me towards those oldies and classic country songs I was talking about earlier. IN AN AGE OF DIGITAL MEDIA WHERE EVERYONE IS CLAMORING TO BE SEEN AND HEARD, DO YOU FEEL THE INTERNET HAS HELPED OR HINDERED YOUR ABILITY TO GET YOUR MUSIC OUT THERE? I feel the internet has definitely helped my music get heard. I feel so blessed to live in this miraculous age where I can be my own manager/marketing director/promoter and just do it all from the convenience of my home with a phone or laptop. It’s like living sci-fi. The internet is infinite and there’s room for all of us. I think you can be seen as much or as little as you want, you just have to be willing to put the work in with the tools you have at your disposal. I love it. WHAT IS IT THAT YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT THE OCALA MUSIC SCENE? WHAT DO YOU WISH YOU COULD CHANGE ABOUT IT? I love that there is one! Ocala has always had a great scene. It was here long before me and will be here long after I am gone. I think now is a particularly exciting time for arts and music in Ocala because we have organizations like The Insomniac Theater, The Reilly Arts Center and The Magnolia Art Xchange trying to make a difference in the arts community. Not to mention, there are tons of locally owned businesses that are all doing their part to support local art and music. There are so many inspiring community art events and performers in the area.

The only thing I would change is to have more time in the day so I could attend more events and see more of my fellow performers in town. The art and music scene is thriving and very exciting these days. I wouldn’t change it, I just want more. WHAT PROJECTS DO YOU CURRENTLY HAVE IN THE WORKS THAT WE CAN LOOK FORWARD TO IN THE NEAR OR DISTANT FUTURE? I have lots of shows coming up with my band Swing Theory. Keep an eye on our website for our events calendar at swingtheoryjazz.com. I am booked for the rest of the year with lots of solo shows too, watch on Facebook and Instagram for my upcoming Becky Sinn solo shows. There is a long overdue album of Dr. Sinn’s Freak Island Musical Sideshow Greatest Hits that needs to happen (That’s my sexy clown band for those of you who don’t know). I am also starting to write some new songs so hopefully a new Becky Sinn album will be in the works eventually as well.

NOV 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

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1 13

EVENTS

socially speaking

The

Royal

Tailgate

STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY RONALD W. WETHERINGTON | SOCIAL EDITOR Ron@ocalamagazine.com

t a recent evening at the Country Club of Ocala, the Ocala Royal Dames held a tailgate fundraiser to raise funds for cancer research. Many attendees wore their favorite team gear. On this evening and so many other times, the Ocala Royal Dames make it clear that the team to be on is the team that fights cancer. It should be remembered that in 1986 Theresa Castro brought together a group of public-spirited women in Ocala and organized the Ocala Royal Dames for Cancer Research which became chartered as a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization on February 12, 1987. Their mission is to ensure a strong local and regional effort in the fight against cancer through funding research and education. The Ocala Royal Dames for Cancer Research, Inc. have pursued a cure for can-

Catherine McCall, Tori Shenavar, Ava Pizzuti, Raelin terrell, Kaeleigh Ausley, Martin, Delaney Hise and Regan Jones

cer for over 30 years by donating more than $3,000,000 dollars in direct grants to researchers at Florida nonprofit cancer centers. The organization also funds free community education about cancer research, treatment, prevention, and awards scholarships to nursing students who plan to specialize in treating cancer patients. Ocala Royal Dames is an all-volunteer, self-sustaining organization with no paid employees or office space. The recent tailgate fundraiser was the Ocala Royal Dames way of kicking off the football season in style with the goal of defeating cancer on our home field. The $22,000 raised from the event will fund cancer research locally at UF Health Moffitt Cancer Center. Helen Greene was captain of the team that planned the tailgating party. The most valuable players of the event were the team consisting of Danielle Leeds, Alicia Hobson, and Kitty Potapow. Special teams were handled by Monica Haufler, Terry Dowless, Anne Zalak, Michelle Dinkins, and Ocala Royal Dames President Karen Zeedyk. Walking into the event, one viewed several decorated tailgate vehicles. There were trucks and jeeps on display thanks to Deluca Toyota, Phillips Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram, and Real Truck. The tables were decorated with the sponsorsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; favorite team dĂŠcor. There was even a real Gator tent displayed by sponsor Bill Barnett of Co-Advantage with grill, camp chairs, and snacks. There were

Roy and Terry Bowless, Michelle Dinkins and Danielle Leeds David and Loida Moore and Kimberly Crenshaw

Shaun Sanchez, Dan Strezo, Alicia Hobson and Tim Schaeffer

Ann, Carl, Carl and Arie Zalak

Norm and Maryellen Poe, Lenore and Don Nichols

Judy and Tom Green and Kathy Dinkins

Barbara Hopkins, Terry and Cindy Crawford

many silent auction items placed on tables lining the room. The offering was unusually creative and full of every possible tailgate idea for fall. The evening kicked off with the Forest High School cheerleaders leading the attendees in a fight song. Then each table got to lead the room in their team fight song. Tailgate sponsor, Kitty Potapow, observes, “I have lost close friends and family due to cancer and, after realizing how much the research for finding a cure has improved, I wanted to help. Any breakthrough is much needed; therefore, it is only reasonable for me to give back to my community. I’m a 100% supporter of this organization.” Along with husband Chad, Monica Haufler was a tailgate sponsor and she states, “Chad and I enjoy supporting cancer research through the Ocala Royal Dames. The tailgating party

was a great way to have fun and raise money.” Tailgate sponsors of Landscaping Sod and Beyond, Matthew and Danielle Leeds note, “Everyone has been touched in one way or another by cancer. The Ocala Royal Dames is an organization of amazingly strong, driven, and dedicated women who are totally committed to win this fight against cancer. I am truly blessed to be a part of this wonderful organization. I feel every person should try to make a difference because every person can.” IF YOU ARE INTERESTED in becoming an Ocala Royal Dame or wish to make a donation towards cancer research and education, please go to: www. ocalaroyaldames.org.

NOV 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

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EVENTS

socially speaking

NAMI STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY RONALD W. WETHERINGTON | SOCIAL EDITOR Ron@ocalamagazine.com

he National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) seeks to serve a growing population of people suffering from the debilitating effects of a mental affliction while also striving to erase the stigma surrounding mental illness. The recent luncheon at the Webber Center of the College of Central Florida was highlighted with music by Life, a silent auction, and a stirring speech by Dr. Joe Munson from the University of Florida.

Dorothy Riaubia, Cathy Vandeven, Leena Williams, Kristeena Farmer and Jose Torres Mark DeBolt, Dolores Sierra, Carolyn Weldon and Luis Isaza

Joseph Munson, Carali McLean, Diana Williams and John Podkomorski

IF YOU ARE STRUGGLING with a mental affliction or know someone who is, then NAMI Marion County can be a real life saver. Follow them on Facebook or visit www.Namiocala.org for more information.

Mariona Harrington, Rosa Harris and Keyetta Harris

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Dan Barascskay, Andrea Everett, Dorothy Conway Comeau and Andy Stracuzzi

Karen Fant and Tony Clayton

Eric Weaver, Tony Clayton, Tammy Hoff , Pam Knight, and Mark Shirah

It’s Electric PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROSS ANTHONY

Ocala Electric Utility (OEU) Hosts Annual Customer Appreciation Day

Ocala Electric Utility (OEU) hosted its annual Customer Appreciation Day on October 11th at Citizen's Circle in Downtown Ocala in honor of its 50,000 customers and in celebration of Public Power Week, October 6-12. Families enjoyed all manner of festivities that included lively music and a host of games for children to play. Local restaurant Mojo’s Catering Co. contributed a delicious buffet and Kona Ice was on hand to provide sweet treats for all that were in attendance. Tammy Hoff, OEU's public education and outreach coordinator, led in the foresight and organization of ensuring the success of this great event for our city and community. TO LEARN MORE, please contact Tammy Hoff, Ocala Electric Utility Public Education and Outreach Coordinator at 352-351-6626.

NOV 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

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EVENTS

socially speaking

Quarterback Club Touchdown! The Ocala Quarterback Club hosted honored guest speaker, Nathan Whitaker, who graced the Club with his unique and sometimes comical, life stories and testimonial. Nathan is a NY Times Best Selling Author and Co-Author with NFL Coach, Tony Dungy, Quiet Strength, The Mentor Leader, The Uncommon Life, The Soul of a Team, to name a few of his books. He is a former NFL Player and Super Bowl Champion and is an Attorney with his Law Degree from Harvard Law School. Nathan is a Leadership Consultant and is literally 'Being the Difference' as a mentor to our youth and aspiring athletes across the USA. He is a Corporate Speaker and continues to share his life story that touches the heart and spirit of all who have the privilege to hear him.

Nathan Whitaker, Honored Speaker and Mike McGuinnis

Albert Peek, Nick Navetta

TO LEARN MORE about Nathan, visit his website at www.nathanwhitaker.com. Nathan Whitaker and Brad Rogers

Wes Wheeler and Nathan Whitaker

Attorney Fred Landt, Nathan Whitaker, Mayor Kent Guinn

Paul Clark and Larry Bush

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Wes Wheeler and Joe Voge

Nathan Whitaker and Dr. Dion Osborne

Wes Wheeler, Penny Miller and Nathan Whitaker

Judge Bob Landt, Mayor Kent Guinn, Nathan Whitaker and Attorney Randy Briggs

Roger Williams, Bill Marrenn, Todd Duffy Steve Barrett, Colin Barrett, Nick Navetta

Artwork by Jordan Shapot

Brandon Champagne, illustrating live

Marjorie "Mimi" Hale Taylor Grace and Mimi Hale Mel Fiorentino

Celebrating Local Art

Ocala’s First Friday Art Walk is well underway.

Art Nussel, Jr. Evelyn Nussel, Mimi Hale, Art Nussel, III and Harley White

The first Friday of each month artists throughout Marion County put their creativity on display for residents to peruse and purchase local wares. A family-friendly event provided by the City of Ocala residents can enjoy live music, food, and entertainment. With over 30 local artists there are a plethora of varying types and styles of art to enjoy. You never know what you are going to see downtown. October’s art walk was filled with surprises including a book signing by Ocala’s own Marjorie “Mimi” Hale hosted at her award-winning establishment Ivy on the Square. This self-guided tour is mapped out for the public and includes activities for kids provided by local arts organizations. For more information on how you can be involved visit the city website at ocalafl.org TO LEARN MORE, www.ocalafl.org/ government/city-departments/ recreation-parks/cultural-arts/ first-friday-artwalk

NOV 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

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socially speaking

EVENTS

Hometown

Heroes F PHOTOS BY JOSHUA JACOBS

irst Responders are a vital part of protecting our community and we strive to honor them for their service. In order to encourage and recognize all of the outstanding ways they go above and beyond every day, Hiers-Baxley Funeral Services has partnered with Vets Helping Vets USA to sponsor the annual Hometown Heroes Breakfast. This ceremony presents awards to first responders from the Sheriff and Fire Departments of Marion, Lake, Levy, Putnam, Citrus, Alachua, and Sumter counties, along with Ocala Fire Rescue and the police from Ocala, Belleview, and Dunnellon. These departments nominated exceptional service members and then a committee selected the Hometown Hero winners. All nominees and Hometown Heroes from every county are recognized at the ceremony, with special honor going to those who saved a life in an Act of Valor.

Jeffrey Askew, John Zobler-Ocala City Manager, Representative Charlie Stone, Brent Maliver, Jeannie Rickan, Mournir Bouyones, Representative Stan McClain

Diana Williams, Hank Whittier-Exec.Director of Vets Helping Vets, Leena Williams-Hiers-Baxley, Steve Tweedle-Hiers-Baxley

Hank Whittier-Exec Director of Vets Helping Vets, Senator Dennis Baxley, Representative Stan McClain

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Honor Guard Presentation Led by Captain Pam Driggers of the Marion County Fire Department

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Celebrating OM Ocala Magazine’s 40th Anniversary › A COFFEE TABLE HARDCOVER RED BOOK › THE TOWN & COUNTRY ISSUE › THE STATE OF THE CITY › HORSE CAPITAL OF THE WORLD

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NOV 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

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health journal

ETC

U.S. Experts Concerned About Complacency with Heart Disease PROVIDED BY BRANDPOINT

uccess breeds complacency and in healthcare, this is particularly problematic with heart disease. Over the past 50 years, deaths from heart disease have been cut by more than 50% - a public health success story driven largely by medical innovation such as procedures and drugs, according to researchers and U.S. government data.

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However, despite this progress, heart disease remains the number one cause of death. It kills as many Americans as all cancers and chronic lower respiratory diseases combined. And after decades of progress, in the past ten years, deaths from heart disease have increased. Many healthcare professionals worry that no further progress is being

made against the number one killer and more treatment innovation is needed. "Despite it still being the major killer in the United States responsible for about 610,000 deaths [each year, between 19992013] according to the American Heart Association (AHA), [heart disease] seems to generate less fear among the public than

Despite this progress, heart disease remains the number one cause of death. It

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Americans as all cancers and chronic lower respiratory diseases combined.

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cancer ... or even the opioid epidemic," said Mimi Swartz, executive editor at Texas Monthly and contributing opinion writer, writing about coronary complacency in 2018. Some argue that these decades of progress have dulled the perception of heart disease as one of the most dangerous public health threats. Others argue that lowering heart disease risk further is too difficult and too void of medical advances to garner media attention. Health experts warn that heart disease, although blunted by medical advancements, is still a ubiquitous ticking time bomb. Patients and physicians need greater awareness about lowering risk through lifestyle choices. Ad-

therapies can also lower the risk of heart disease beyond management of blood pressure, diabetes and cholesterol. "We may be incubating another [negative] cycle ... the skyrocketing increase in obesity, diabetes and the metabolic syndrome even as smoking decreases and hypertension and hyperlipidemia are better treated, may presage such a recurrence," Henry Greenberg, Susan Raymond and Stephen Leeder, experts affiliated with Columbia University's Center for Global Health and Economic Development, said in the journal Health Affairs. The good news, experts say, is there are steps known to help prevent cardiovascular disease and thwart complacency. U.S. health authorities recommend

the following steps to prevent heart disease. Eat a healthy diet including fresh fruits and vegetables, limited processed foods and low-fat, low-sodium and high-fiber foods. Maintain a healthy weight. Get enough physical activity to keep weight down and lower blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar levels. Don't smoke. And avoid drinking too much alcohol. Finally, while advances in medical innovation—the discovery of new ways to prevent and treat cardiovascular disease—have been relatively slow in recent decades, there have been meaningful new findings. Some of these findings have led to corrections in certain prior conventional thinking, such as the lack of value of dietary supplements for treatment of serious diseases. Other findings include new therapies which provide opportunities to improve care for many patients. Complacency with taking control of your cardiovascular health can be a killer, but steps—old and new—can help us all try to avoid it and the perils it can bring.

NOV 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

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New Officers Induction for 2020

iwanis of Ocala held their Annual New Officers Induction Ceremony at the Elks Lodge. Pictured are Past President Nick Navetta; Incoming President, Jeff Rutenber; Incoming President, Joe Voge; Vice President, Tammy Hoff. The 2019 Distinguished Kawanian of the Year Award was given to Robert â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Bobâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Murphy.

2019 Annual Pancake Breakfast

he 2019 62nd Annual Pancake Breakfast will be held on December 14th at 7 am located at the 8th Street Elementary School. Hundreds of pancakes are served by the hour. Several Key Club members and many Kiwanis Volunteers help to make the event a huge success. The proceeds go to help the children and youth that are in need. For more information please visit: www.ocalakiwanis.org

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Generations of Hope Ocala’s oldest church still stands after 150 years

urrently located at 623 South Magnolia Avenue sits one of Ocala’s most treasured historical sites. For generations, The Mount Zion African Methodist Episcopal Church has been a beacon of hope for many of Ocala’s residents. Years before they poured the foundation, the church began as a single group of people established by the Reverend Thomas W. Long. Founded on February 16th, 1866, Reverend Long stood resilient in the face of an ever-changing and often volatile southern culture. He was traveling by foot to varying municipalities to spread the ideals of Christianity to the masses. He desired that people would come together and meet in an atmosphere of encouragement—not just once in a while—but regularly. His efforts proved to be successful as this group of citi-

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zens rallied under his direction and were the first congregation of the soon to be named Mt. Zion A.M.E Church. Meeting under the cover of a brush arbor structure that was sewn together loosely, their original building was far from the gothic revival architecture that it is known for today. Constructed by a prominent African American contractor of the 19th century Levi Alexander Sr. it is currently the oldest religious structure still standing in our area. Very little has changed about the building since the inception of Alexander’s design. Many of the original pieces are still intact and, while upgrades were completed over the years, the building itself had kept the same framework from when it started. The two-story, 600-seat auditorium boasts solid wood pews and pristine stained glass windows originally shipped in from England. Every de-

tail, including the design of the ceiling to help bolster acoustics, is all a part of the original construction of 1891. During the early years of our city, Mt. Zion A.M.E Church would host many local and state activities. As our area continued to grow, it became the home of many baccalaureates and graduation ceremonies, fraternal organizations, concerts, and other cultural activities. This beautifully preserved brick building is more than just another church in our community—it’s a beacon of hope and a testament to the African American culture that is a cornerstone of our city’s history. IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO LEND a hand to help H.O.P.S maintain this special part of our city’s history, please feel free to contact them at (352) 351-1861.

Photos by Joshua Jacobs

BY THE HISTORIC OCALA PRESERVATION SOCIETY

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