OCALA MAGAZINE: DIGITAL EDITION JANUARY 2019

ON THE MENU | ON THE JOB | EVERYTHING EQUINE | ARTS + CULTURE | HEALTH + FITNESS

JAN. 2019

New Year. New Zone. New You.

Ocala’s City Magazine Since 1980 | $5.95 u.s.

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Person of theYear

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CONTENTS JANUARY • 2019 FEATURES

16 What’s New in 2019

Breaking news in various categories for Ocala/ Marion County

26 Person of the Year Ocala Magazine’s selection as the most influential person of the past year

30 Travel at the Speed of My Heart Ron Wetherington visited Europe and his friend, the Princess of Saxony

DEPARTMENTS 39 EAT

40 On the Menu — Muddy Lotus 44 Dining Out 47 PLAY

48 Socially Speaking 52 Community Calendar 53 WORK

54 On the Job — Train for Success 56 State of the City — Space Invaders 58 State of the County — New Year, New Career 60 Medical Journal — Can You Hear Me Now?

ON THE COVER Danielle Marciano with daughter Giavanni, on location at The Zone Health & Fitness

ON THE MENU | ON THE JOB | EVERYTHING EQUINE | ARTS + CULTURE | HEALTH + FITNESS

JAN. 2019

New Year. New Zone. New You.

Ocala’s City Magazine Since 1980 | $5.95 u.s.

Zone Health and Fitness: Results-oriented in a familyfriendly environment

Photographed by John Jernigan

SPONSORED The

Evolution of Ocala Magazine

Meet the new owners. An overview of history and vision.

Person of theYear Ocala Magazine’s selection as the most influential person of the past year

What’s New in 2019 4

| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | JAN. 2019

63 LIVE 64 Everything Equine — Horse Bits 66 Arts + Culture 70 Health + Fitness — CrossFit vs Beachbody’s P90X 72 VOX — Voice of the People

10 New Year. New Zone. New You. — The Zone Health & Fitness focused on meeting your goals in fitness family environment

THANK YOU FOR MAKING THAN THE BEST! US

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OCALA Volume 38, Issue 7

magazine

JANUARY 2019

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

Philip Glassman, CCIM | Publisher philip@ocalamagazine.com EDITORIAL John Sotomayor | Managing Editor john@ocalamagazine.com Ronald W. Wetherington | Social Editor ron@ocalamagazine.com

ART Jessi Miller | Creative Director jessi@ocalamagazine.com Josh Jacobs | Graphic Designer PHOTOGRAPHY

Sharon Raye | Copy Editor CONTRIBUTORS Jill Fink | Food Editor Louisa Barton | Writer Andrea Davis | Writer Colt Gatzemeyer | Writer Rick Savage | Writer Mayor Kent Guinn | Columnist Alex Sotomayor | Digital Media Support City of Ocala and Marion County OPERATIONS Randy Woodruff, CPA | CFO | randy@ocalamagazine.com Doug Hummel | Director of Information Technology

John Jernigan | Photographer Kevin Bischof | Event Photographer DIGITAL/VIDEO/SOCIAL MEDIA Alex Moy | Director of Social Media & Digital Content Jordan A. Richmond | Digital Operations Director Hannah Sylvester | Social Media Manager Gene Bigio | Video Production John Peterson | Video Editor Ilia Laboy | Content Creation Sevryn Smith | Content Creation SALES Trevor DeShaw | Sales Executive

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| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | JAN. 2019

FLORIDA CELEBRATION OF READING

M I A M I HONORING BARBARA BUSH

Benefiting

Thursday, February 7, 2019 • SeaFair Miami • Bayfront Park South Dock at Chopin Plaza Join us for a special Celebration of Reading honoring our Founder, Barbara Bush. A beloved First Lady, proud mother of six children, and accomplished author, Barbara Bush believed that every American should have the opportunity for education, no matter their age. Her life of integrity, heart of compassion, fierce determination to change American lives for the better, and strong commitment to literacy have impacted millions of families, and will continue to do so for generations to come.

Since 2002, the Barbara Bush Foundation for Family Literacy and members of the Bush family have joined together with community leaders, best-selling authors, and valued partners to celebrate the power of literacy. This special event will celebrate the legacy of Barbara Bush and include, as always, an entertaining lineup of best-selling authors.

Florida Celebration of Reading - Miami

About the Barbara Bush Foundation for Family Literacy

Honorary Co-Chairs: Sandra and Jeb Bush, Jr. Autumn and Fred Karlinsky

The Barbara Bush Foundation is the nation’s leading advocate for family literacy. Almost three decades ago, former First Lady Barbara Bush started her passionate quest to ensure families across the country could read. Today, the Foundation remains committed to Mrs. Bush’s vision, providing innovative programs and strategies aimed to expand access to education for all Americans. To learn more, please visit www.BarbaraBush.org.

Schedule of Events Celebration Luncheon – 12:00 p.m.

Invitation Only Welcome Reception – 6:00 p.m.

Celebration of Reading Program – 7:00 p.m.

Celebration Lounge & Dessert Bar – 8:30 p.m.

Business Casual Attire

Michael.Thompson@barbarabush.org • 850-562-5300

LETTERS

MAYOR

from the

Tuscawilla Park

Makeover

The City of Ocala reveals the long awaited, and needed, East Ocala First Responder Campus on NE 8th Avenue for the greater Tuscawilla Park area, with the grand opening on January 10th; plus — a first-look at long-term plans to improve the Tuscawilla Park area.

BY: MAYOR KENT GUINN AND JOHN ZOBLER, CITY MANAGER

I

t is with great pleasure that I get to announce at this time the ribbon-cutting, grand opening for the East Ocala First Responder Campus on NE 8th Avenue is scheduled for Jan 10, 2019. The First Responder Campus consists of a brand-new fire and police station replacing the District 2 office for OPD and replacing First Station No. 1 for OFD. The history behind this new landmark will become the stuff of legends. It was once the sight of a drug house that we have watched for a while. Over time, we arrested 42 people in the neighborhood. Once we ended the drug trafficking, we acquired the structure and tore it down. So, where once stood a drug house destroying the community, now stands a police station protecting the community.

We have considered various locations for the new Fire Station 1, including where the new skatepark will be, however once this location was obtained, we thought the best option was to locate the two on the same lot, forming a first responder campus.

It serves two purposes: first, NE 8th Avenue can quickly transport emergency vehicles to SR 40 or Bonnie Heath Blvd, reducing the time needed to get anywhere. Second, the First Responder Campus gives a presence in Tuscawilla Park, which we are trying to restore its long-ago vitality. Quoting a law enforcement friend, bad people don’t like to go where the police are located.

A strong police presence in the corridor was the original genesis of the plan. Not only was Tuscawilla Park in jeopardy, but we were in danger of losing the NE Wynomina neighborhood across the street. We needed a strong police presence to reassure local businesses and residents they are protected.

At the same time, we are making improvements to NE 8th Avenue road, and adding attractive décor and attractions, and bicycle lanes, to connect the Wynomina neighborhood back to the park, so it becomes more accessible as a family park, and recreational center.

The décor of the new First Responder Campus mirrors that of the Reilley Arts Center, an art deco style. Tuscawilla Park continues to evolve as a cultural center, with the advent of the Reilley Arts Center, the Magnolia Arts Xchange, the Discovery Science Center, and the

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| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | JAN. 2019

sculptural art series.

Other future plans include the repurposing of the American Legion Hall into a marketplace, much like the Depot Event Space in Gainesville. We are also trying to locate a micro-brewery, micro-winery, or micro-distillery as well as a food court at the old fire station No. 1, which will retain the look of a fire station and adopt a name that reflects that, like Hook and Ladder Brewery.

We have intentionally selected an art deco design to reinforce the aesthetic of the other local attractions, like the Reilley Arts Center and the Discovery Science Center.

Soon, the entire park area will have a cohesive feel, uniting the entire area as a destination.

The next phase will include the construction of two roundabouts. The first at NE 9th Street — the entranceway to the Reilley Arts Center, and a second at 6th Street, by the little league field, for a secondary center entranceway into the park. Landscaping will include islands, designed for public appeal and use. Some roadways will become closed to vehicles and become walkways.

There are plans for an elevated boardwalk along the lake. Even a third roundabout is being considered where the old fire station 1 is located. Those improvements are all considered 2019 projects, with the exception of the secondary entranceway and third roundabout. The secondary entranceway involves the construction of a brand-new road, so it is a 2020 project.

Over the summer of 2019, reconstruction will begin on Watula with a brand-new sidewalk system that will travel from Tuscawilla Park all the way up to 4th Street.

Another strong visual and functional connection of downtown to midtown.

We believe with all of these amenities in place, the surrounding residential neighborhood will bounce back. We are hopeful to introduce a Children’s Home Society in the former HOPS building soon, and we believe that these amenities will allow that valued nonprofit to take hold in the local area.

Mayor Kent Guinn

We are making improvements to NE 8th Avenue road, and adding attractive décor and attractions, and bicycle lanes, to connect the Wynomina neighborhood back to the park, Editor’s Note: Mayor’s Message will be a monthly column in Ocala Magazine provided by Mayor Kent Guinn covering issues that are important to the Ocala/Marion County community, and whenever possible, discuss solutions to address community concerns.

JAN. 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

9

SPONSORED

New Year. New Z Many people make New Year's resolutions to go to the gym and get fit.

But one local gym—Zone Health and Fitness—is making a resolution of their own. Owner Ben Marciano is leading the way.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN JERNIGAN

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| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | JAN. 2019

w Zone. New You. “I

felt it was important to refocus our efforts in truly creating the best member experience,” says Marciano. “I want each member to feel welcomed and a part of the [Zone] family, that every person [who] walks through the door accomplish[es] the results they desire.”

Fully rededicating their efforts to helping members achieve their fitness goals means taking stock of what they’ve already got, figuring out how they can make it even better, and sorting through the proverbial suggestion box.

Zone’s namesake exercise and healthy living services—called “zones”—provide a wide array of options to push members in reaching and even exceeding their goals. But there’s always room for improvement.

There’s also plenty of opportunity to try new zones. This is an innovative way that members can work out, learn how to be healthier, and most importantly, stay motivated. The change in atmosphere during a workout helps members constantly refocus and drive themselves to success. Zone also has plans to bolster both their community within the gym and their relationship with community. For Zone Health and Fitness it is about helping the community grow strong inside and out.

GYM WITH A MISSION Zone Health and Fitness opened its doors in 2014 with the mission of bringing their unique fitness strategy to the people of Marion County. Marciano already had plenty of leadership experience within the local fitness world, including time served as the Executive Director of the Frank Deluca YMCA. Traci Bracey worked alongside Marciano as the District Executive Director overseeing two locations, Ocala and Taveres, in Lake County. For her, joining the Zone team as the Regional General Manager for both Zone East and Zone West was an inspired decision.

“I worked under Ben for quite a while at

the YMCA, and I loved his drive, his heart, and his will. I knew he would be successful no matter what he does,” said Bracey. “We have the same belief system in that we truly want to make a difference in people’s lives.”

One main difference the Zone offers is their various different zones, or fitness areas, that can be tackled as a sort of leveling-up system. This truly sets the Zone apart from other facilities. Members have many zones designed specifically for different athletic abilities and interest to choose from. Group Exercise Zone, new edition XGT Zone, the cult-followed CrossFit Zone, Free-Weight Zone, and more. The Spa Zone is available for massages from a licensed therapist, hydromassage, steam room, sauna, and whirlpool.

In addition, the Zone utilizes social media as an educational arena to teach both members and perspective members about fitness, community, industry events, and more.

Members can also find personal motivation in challenging themselves to kick things up a notch.

“One can go to Express [Zone], then cardio equipment, then group exercises, transitioning to personalized group training programs like XGT, and move up to the highest level, CrossFit,” explains Bracey. “It was exciting to me to see the different range of things available to members to achieve their goals in a fitness-family environment.”

Family is another element encompassed

by Zone’s unique method for a healthy lifestyle. Not only are the trainers and other staff members a family, members become part of that family when they join. Even the kids are part of the family with Zone’s educational based childcare center called The Blast Zone.

It’s vital for any new business to build a solid foundation to survive. For gyms, that means building a solid base by gym memberships.

In just four years, Zone has achieved remarkable success in growth through rising membership sales built upon a strong, sup-

portive internal community. This achievement allowed them to open a second location in Market Street at Heathbrook, which just celebrated its first birthday.

It is now time, according to Marciano, to redirect the attention back toward the fundamentals of service—making sure gym members are satisfied by reaching the goals they set when they first signed up for their membership.

RESHAPING THE ZONES This back-to-basics mentality is the driving force behind improving and creating zones. Oiling the machine of the level-up zone system and making a clear path for members is just one way Zone will improve the gym-going experience.

“We walk members through a continuum from point A to point Z,” says Marciano.

“The goal is to have members know exactly what they are doing every time they enter Zone to work out.”

A great starting point—the Express Zone. A quick, coach-assisted circuit that can help build a foundation or a way to workout for people on a lunch break. This semi-private room is a great place for beginners or people who have been out of the gym for a while.

This unique set up is one of Zone’s signature twists on a motivated, healthy lifestyle, making the Express Zone a place many members can feel good about themselves.

Zone strives to serve and impress members, making sure everything in the gym is up to par. In December, the gym rolled out new models of member-favored equipment such as a new StairMaster. Their suggestion box contained one pivotal point—new plates on the free weights. So, Christmas came early for Zone members—and trainers alike— when fresh weight plates arrived for cleanest deadlifts in Marion County.

Though 2019 will see a continuation of updates like these. Marciano and the Zone team have many new industry-leading perks

JAN. 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

11

up their sleeves.

Zone is adding an innovative and interactive group Zone called the XGT Program, the only one of its kind in the state of Florida. This program pairs members with similar physical abilities and goals during a group workout class. With focuses on strength training, cardio and flexibility, members challenge one another to push their limits in a safe, supportive environment.

To further help “the Zone family” reach success, Zone is unveiling a brand new app to motivate members in their fitness and health journeys. With improved communication between members, Zone brand swag, and motivational accountability as incentives, the addition of an app will skyrocket the gym-going experience.

Evidence shows that eating healthy makes up a large portion of getting fit. One of the newest services Zone offers is Fresh Meals, a partner program providing individualized meal programs for interested members.

These pre-made meals are made for specific dietary needs including vegan/vegetarian

couraged, and that they build relationships with established accountability systems to help keep them on track.

“That is done inside and outside the gym — through communication by phone calls and text messages with their trainers,” said Marciano.

If members feel connected to their trainers and befriend other gym members, they are more likely to develop a fitness lifestyle, and regular gym training becomes a way of life.

In fact, forging strong, personal connections with members is one of the most successful ways trainers and staff help.

Assistant Manager Destiny Espinosa was overweight when she started her journey at Zone. But through hard work, determination, and motivation from the Zone family, she applied the training regimen suggested to her and reached her goals.

“When I started working out, I was over 200 lbs. I have since reached my goal and maintained the weight I want,” she says.

Finding members who start where

“People feed themselves for the first time in 30 years, people walk for the first time in 10 years.” or keto, and can target specific member goals such as weight-loss, building muscle, or combating chronic illness. It’s further customizable with choices of one meal each day or all your meals for each week. As an extra bonus they are shipped directly to your home.

“The [Fresh Meals] process is very simple. Members log into the site and purchase meals. We find that the more meals a member purchases, the better control they have over their diet. It takes the guess work out of what to eat and doesn’t leave room for extra snacking,” said Bracey.

Not only is Zone focused on how to use calories, but they’re also invested in getting members the best, most useful calories to boost workouts and push them further toward their goals.

FITNESS FOR EVERYBODY It is vital to Marciano and his team that each and every member feels supported, en-

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| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | JAN. 2019

she started and offering them assistance in reaching their goals is what gives her the most satisfaction in her job.

“I enjoy helping others, as others helped me,” says Espinosa. “Its all part of the journey we are on together.”

It’s stories like Espinosa’s and of the members she’s helped that embrace Zone’s most cherished ideal—Fitness for EveryBody. This play on words rings true in every step of Zone’s growth, especially as they march into 2019.

Zone has several staff members specially trained to service members with special needs or physical limitations and elderly members. One of them is Chris Mendoza, a personal trainer and exercise therapist. His goal is to get those members with physical limitations healthy and able to enjoy life.

“I have seen people use their arms and legs again when they were told it wasn’t possible,” says Mendoza. “People feed them-

Destiny Espinoza

selves for the first time in 30 years, people walk for the first time in 10 years.”

Mendoza’s background is in physical therapy. At 21, he worked at Ocala Regional, a trauma hospital. Mendoza is certified in physical therapy, corrective exercise, Kinesiology, exercise therapy, senior fitness, core conditioning, neuromuscular stretching, and Silver Sneakers, a group for senior-specific exercise classes.

Mendoza once walked in the shoes of his some of his members, people who have lost all physical capabilities like bending over or getting down on or up from the floor. As young as he is, Mendoza identifies with older generations who have those struggles due to age.

“I have a learning disability and developed a passion for rehab after I suffered an injury at age 17,” said Mendoza. “Rehab helped me fix my body; I know what it is like to deal with injuries and depression. After my injury, I was down for three years.”

Mendoza is part of Zone’s work with seniors and people suffering from physical and mental issues, including those who suffer from depression due to disadvantages from their weight.

“My goal as a professional is to show people that, no matter where they are in life, physically or mentally, there is something that can be done to improve their physical and mental health,” says Mendoza. “To help those with physical limitations learn that they have full control of their recovery.”

Marciano, Mendoza and the rest of the Zone team have already made strides to make their gym and the member experience as inclusive as possible. Just over a year ago, Zone launched Rock Steady, a boxing program built to combat the progression of Parkinson’s disease. It keeps the mind active while engaging important eye-hand-coordination, balance and more.

“The ability to encompass [a variety of workouts] under one roof means that we really do

New Programs for Maximum Results District Manager Traci Braci addresses Zone staff

have something for everyone,” Bracey exclaims.

Marciano agrees. “The goal is for [everyone] to feel part of something.”

STRONG BODY, STRONG COMMUNITY In addition to including everybody in their fitness journey, Zone’s mission is to shape lives and strengthen communities, because “when one is well, our world grows stronger.”

Bracey also values the staff camaraderie with in Zone’s two locations.

“I love that I can help the staff develop,” said Bracey. “My role is really to work with the staff to help them reach their personal goals, whether that means moving up in the Zone, or getting better at providing the service they specialize in, such as personal training or exercise therapy.”

When Espinosa applied for a job at Zone, she was going through several transitions in her life and was uncertain of scheduling considerations as a single mother. She felt reassured because Zone really is about family. She accepted the job at the front desk and by her first week, she was already working full-time hours. Over time, transitioned through several positions leading the way to her current position as Assistant Manager.

“I am so appreciative to Zone for every opportunity,” said Espinosa. “It is a family-run business that supports all employees, so that they achieve what they did not even dare dream big enough to achieve.”

“Our staff help shape the lives of our members, the members in turn go out and shape the lives of others,” says Marciano.

“We take giving back seriously.”

In 2018, Zone extended the bulk of their giving to organizations that are child focused, such as United Way, the Boys & Girls Club, Kimberly Center, the Arnett House and more. It’s not just the business that gives, the employees join in the mission to help others.

“We are very proud of what we have done over the past four years, having helped numerous organizations in our community,” said Marciano. “Part of our mission is the better we do as a business, the more we can give to make Marion County better.”

(BODY) BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE Since opening their doors in 2014, Zone has learned a lot about its members. According to Marciano, members must truly feel connected as part of a family and be actively encouraged by other members and training staff. Not only do members’ spirits soar, but so do their results. Zone’s new focus is on building the best staff and programs to keep encouraging people and helping them see results.

The learning will continue as they roll out new ideas and zones to help people reach their health and fitness goals. It is of the utmost importance that every staff and gym member feel welcomed and supported when they walk through the door so that the supportive culture is maintained, in 2019 and beyond.

“There is an indescribable feeling we get when a member not only reaches their goal, but exceeds it. Sometimes this means no more medication, an ideal wedding day, or even simply personal achievement,” says Marciano. “As cliché as it sounds, we really do love and care about the well-being of our members.”

Curious about Zone’s new programs Zone?

Bring in this article to one of Zone’s two locations for a FREE 5 Day Pass.

Brand New Zone App “The app has dramatically improved communication with members,” said Traci Bracey, District Manager. The app rewards members for using the facility, allowing them to earn prizes while tracking their workouts. They can check in with the app and log their workouts. Rewards include water bottles, Zone bracelets, Zone sweatshirts, personal training sessions, and even a month of free membership.

Members can play the long game and let their points build up to earn the larger rewards.

XGT Program (Extreme Group Training) Zone is the only gym in the state of Florida that offers this XGT program. This small group training combines weights, cardio, and mobility training for members who are paired up with other members with similar abilities. Training together is a fun, exciting, and energizing experience at Zone. Bring a friend or make a new one.

Nutrition Members work hard at the gym, but their at-home nutrition might not be meeting standards to help them achieve their goals. The Zone partnered with Fresh Meals, a company that provides customizable, healthy home-delivered meals. Members now have access to Zone-approved diet plans that keep them on track and away from the snacks.

Additional Unique Programs New Survey: Ever 90 days, participate in surveys via e-mail to constantly improve Zone.

Connection Specialists: Assists members to connect to the Zone that best fits their abilities and goals.

Acunique Scanner: Allows coaches to accurately measure body fat, lean muscle mass, and more to give an accurate picture of health. Measures what the scale cannot, showing you results faster than standard tracking.

JAN. 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

13

Member Testimonials

I was privileged to talk with several members of Zone who shared with me how Zone changed their life.

“My training activity has been nil for a number of years. I had knee replacement surgery in January 2018, followed by foot surgery at the end of February 2018.

I was fairly incapacitated for a while. I ran into Ben and told him I need to go to the gym but I was concerned with reinjuring what the surgeries had corrected. He said he had a trainer that specializes in helping people like you that have special needs. A few days later I signed up and joined. He hooked me up with Chris Mendoza. I trained with Chris three days a week. Initially, I was in bad shape. He suggested a 5-minute warm up on a step climber. At one minute it was over. That gave Chris a good indication where to start. He worked on strengthening my lower body, taking into account my physical recovery and age. Now, I can work out on my own. My goal was to be able to do my daily activities like I had done before my surgeries, like yardwork, my work shop. I am back doing those things, so I am back to enjoying my free time.”

“I have always worked out, and have been a member of Zone since they opened, but began to slow down. My workouts became routine and time was limited as I fit in my workouts during lunch breaks. Ben recommended I try a group program called CrossFit. I didn’t think I would like it. I tried it and found a group with my same schedule. I bonded with them, and have been going regularly ever since. This started 15 months ago and has definitely changed my life for the better. I have lost over 25 lbs of fat and gained over 15 lbs of muscle. People who have not seen me in while don’t even recognize me, then marvel at the change. My cardiovascular health has also improved. I had some health issues a few years ago. In 2012, I had a heart attack, coming from years of living an unhealthy lifestyle. My cardiologist recommended I do something for my heart. That is a muscle too. CrossFit, in addition to weight training is a cardio workout. That, combined with the nutritional advise proved by my CrossFit training group, doctors and healthcare specialists, changed how I live, which changed my quality of life. I am a mental health counselor and can attest to the therapeutic value physical fitness has on the human psyche. We are a family, and we are united by our goals.”

~ Davieoyn Hopson “My goal was to get in shape and feel healthy again after recently having a child. Childcare services at Zone are a blessing. I arrive early in the morning and I know my baby is in premium level care while I do my workout. I began with regular daily workouts, then I heard about CrossFit, which came highly recommended. I decided to give it a try, and immediately I was hooked. I love the community, the comradery, and the results I’ve seen daily. I dedicated myself 5 days a week to CrossFit. I set my goal at losing 5lbs not knowing much about how the program worked but surpassed that! I lost 20 lbs. and gained a ton in confidence. I am a better mother and woman because of it. It is amazing! I owe it all to Zone.”

~ Stephanie Burns

~ Gerald Ergle “I started at Zone back on September 12, 2018, just shy of three months.

That same day, I was diagnosed with diabetes. I knew one of the best ways to take control of this illness was exercise and a healthy lifestyle.

I went directly to Zone after I left the doctor’s office. I met Chyanne, who sat down with me and explained the various gym programs, then walked me around to see the equipment. What I did not expect, was that she introduced me to people and other staff. I shared my diagnosis, and everyone was supportive and informative on solutions. It was obviously a very emotional day for me, after all, I was only 39, and finding out I had this illness was very stressful. I started training that day, and have gone every day since then. I have had a great experience. When I started, I was 165 lbs, and I am only 5’ tall. My goal was to be down to 138 by December 31. I am sure I will reach that goal because I am down to 141. Also, my glucose is down to only 109, which for diabetics,

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| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | JAN. 2019

that is very good. The trainers and nutritionists were helpful and offered great advice. I love it there. I call it my ‘home away from home.’ I bring my 8-year-old son, Justin, to the Blast Zone for kids.

Many parents don’t work out because they have nowhere to leave their children, or cannot afford expensive daycare. Zone provides all of that in the cost of membership. Justin participates in the junior XGT program, He loves it.”

~ Janet Sanchez

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POP CULTURE Pop Culture Takeover

BY ANDREA DAVIS

Every year there is something new that is introduced in the world of pop culture. 2018 had some hard to beat trends but this is the forecast for what could be our biggest trends of the 2019 year.

Movies:

AVENGERS: ENDGAME—Releasing April 26- Chris Hemsworth, Chris Evans, Robert Downey Jr. and more star in this continuation from Avengers: Infinity Wars.

Releasing June 28- Five divers exploring underwater ruins quickly learn that they are not alone in this Adventure, Drama and Horror film starring Nia Long, John Corbett and Sophie Nelisse.

godzillamovie.com

STAR WARS: EPISODE IX—Re-

GODZILLA: KING OF THE MONSTERS—Releasing May 31- This Action, Adventure and Fantasy film where Godzilla takes on other monsters including his ultimate nemesis, the three-headed King Ghidorah starring Millie Bobby Brown, Sally Hawkins and Kyle Chandler.

leasing December 20- The conclusion of the most recent Star Wars trilogy starring Daisy Ridley, Adam Driver, Oscar Isaac, and John Boyega along with other favorites such as Mark Hamill, Carrie Fisher, and others.

TV Shows:

hbo.com

47 METERS DOWN: UNCAGED—

glassmovie.com

GLASS—Releasing January 18- This SciFi/Mystery film stars Bruce Willis, Samuel L. Jackson and James McAvoy.

GAME OF THRONES—Nine noble fami-

lies fight for control over the Lands of Westeros as an old enemy, the White Walkers, arrive to take claim the land as theirs. The popular series final season is expected to be the biggest hit of 2019.

THE TITAN GAMES—This reality-tv type

show is hosted by Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. This show is full of athletic competitions that show based off Johnson’s belief that everyone has potential for greatness. Set to premiere January 2nd.

SNOWPIERCER—Based off the French

graphic novel, “Le Transperceneige” the series focuses on a group who are the last survivors of the planet. They live on a train called “the Snowpiercer” that travels around the globe. This show is expected to premiere in June.

JAN. 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

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follows a trio of characters, each who comes with their own mysterious and troubling past. One is a young lady who once looked into the eyes of a dangerous killer, another is a serial predator desperate to find redemption and the last is a grieving mother obsessed with finding her missing daughter.

Set to premiere in June.

DEADLY CLASS—Set in the late 1980’s counterculture, which follows a disillusioned teen recruited into a storied high school for assassins. This show is expected to premiere on January 16th.

For those that enjoy a good read, take a book from our reading list.

From our local authors:

published in Better Homes and Garden magazine. She will appear at the Headquarters-Ocala Public Library in Meeting Room “C” on January 6th at 2 PM with her book signed and available for purchase.

DAVID COOK—The Way It Was—This book started out as a column in the Ocala Star Banner where David Cook used to work. He spent his time writing about the history of Ocala from the visiting of important people like Elvis Presley to remembering a restaurant called the Brahma. Some of the articles published in his column have been conducted into the book telling tales and memories of Ocala. This book is compiled of over 50 columns and many photographs all telling over 175 years’ worth of Marion County History. As a tribute to Cook, a retired Star-Banner editor and columnist, along with noted historian, the Ocala chapter of the Florida Public Relations Association has recently presented to him its first Lifetime Achievement Award.

Music:

Here are some tunes that hopefully become hot and not flop (as picked by Dean Blinkhorn, Director of Talent Development for the Ocala/Marion County CEP and Editor/ Publisher of Good Life Publications): “The big news for 2018 were rappers that put out samples and demos on YouTube and other social media sites that ended up going viral.” said music and talent development expert Dean Blinkhorn. “I have to think that that trend will continue as we go through the next year as social media is widespread, and it is the way to reach the audiences better.”

The ones to watch for the upcoming year:

MEGHAN TRAINOR who has delayed

her new album “Treat Myself ” until this year which is expected to release January 25.

MAGGIE ROGERS with her new album that will be releasing called “Heard It in A Past Life” on January 18.

Some other books that are expected to be hot on the list are: KING OF SCARS BY LEIGH BARDUGO—A book about a young king who must

form new alliances, refill Ravka’s coffers and stop a rising threat to the once-great Grisha Army.

THE WICKED KING BY HOLLY BLACK—The first lesson is to make your-

self strong. After the realization that she is the heir to Faerie, Oak must keep her brother safe by bounded herself to the wicked king and make herself the power to the throne.

AMY MANGAN—This Side Up: The Road to a Renovated Life—This book is a home and garden editor’s story written with candor, humor and grace, shares the story of a life constantly under construction. As Amy is faced with crisis after crisis, she discovers how to cope, hope, rebuild and move on to a stronger way of life. Her story touches base on job loss, financial shame, home displacement, marital discord, illness and caregiving.

Mangan currently has a column that appears in the Ocala Star Banner and has been

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| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | JAN. 2019

CHAIN OF GOLD BY CASSANDRA CLARE­—When disaster strikes the Shadowhunters, James, Cordelia, and their friends plunge into a wild adventure that will reveal dark and incredible powers, the true cruel price of being a hero and falling in love.

AVRIL LAVIGNE with her new album

“Head Above Water” which will be releasing in February.

Frederic Legrand - COMEO / Shutterstock.com

TELL ME YOUR SECRETS—This show

Ahanui / Shutterstock.com

WEEZER with the release of their “Black” Album in May DIDO with the release of album “Still on my Mind” set to release March.8th

SPORTS

pionship teams, an All-SEC linebacker for the Florida Gators, and 10-year veteran of the Tampa Bay Bucs.

The winner will be chosen by a blue ribbon committee on the basis of these qualities which defined Scot Brantley‘s career: Onfield excellence, athleticism, academics, leadership, commitment & recommitment, goal orientation, character, faith and conscience.

The Scot Brantley Trophy honoree will be presented by the 62-year-old Ocala QB Club and handed off by the former Florida Gator/Tampa Bay Buc/Forest High School Wildcat star himself at the awards dinner to be held at the The Reilly Arts Center in Ocala in April 2019.

The four finalists are:

BRIAN DILLARD – Lake Weir High

School (Ocala) •

• • •

Named 6A Player of the Year from the Florida Athletic Coaches Association District 7.

Offense: 55 catches, 1230 yards, 11 TDs Defense: 71 tackles, 13 TFL, 1 INT Verbally Committed to University of South Florida.

BRIAN MAURER – West Port High School (Ocala)

•

•

•

Finished season with Marion County’s single season passing yardage record and career passing yards.

Season Stats: 280/428, 3,572 yards passing, 34 TDs, 12 INTs 40 carries, 466 yards rushing, 6 TDs Verbally Committed to University of Tennessee

KIMO CLARKE – Vanguard High School

(Ocala) •

Kimo Clarke, Trent Whittemore, Todd Duffy, Brian Maurer and Brian Dillard

Honoring Greatness

COMPLIED BY JOHN SOTOMAYOR Football highlights for 2019.

Scot Brantley Trophy Final Four

The Ocala Quarterback Club has announced

its finalists for the most outstanding football player/student/citizen for The Scot Brantley Trophy in a six-county North Central Florida area: Marion, Lake, Sumter, Levy, Alachua, and Citrus Counties. The winner will be revealed in February.

Brantley was a member and leader on two Ocala Forest High School state cham-

•

Season Stats: 120 carries, 979 yards rushing, 19TDs Verbally Committed to Florida Atlantic University

TRENT WHITTEMORE – Gainesville Buchholz High School (Gainesville)

• • •

Season Stats: 41 receptions, 701 yards receiving, 9 TDs 50 Tackles, 1 TFL, 1 INT, 7 pbu’s Verbally committed to University of Florida

JAN. 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

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Gator Grab The Florida Gators expected to climb into Top 15 by National Signing Day in February. According to Bud Elliott for SBNation, Florida already has “18 commitments that include 10 four-stars, but it’s who the Gators might add make them attractive.”

They include: IMG five-star running back Trey Sanders, four-star Bellflower CA cornerback Chris Steele, Palm Beach FL fourstar cornerback Kaiir Elam, and Lakeland FL High School four-star trio DE Lloyd Summerall, TE Keion Ziperer, and OL Deyavie Hammond.

“If the Gators keep their current crop, and add five of the six above, there’s even a shot to climb into the Top 10,” said Elliott.

SCIENCE AND

TECHNOLOGY The Institute of Human and Machine Cognition (IHMC) continues with unique science and technology programs in 2019 for Ocala/Marion County BY: LAURIE ZINK

Cyber Theater coming to IHMC Ocala 2019

Cyber Theater is a space adapted from the concept of black box theaters to test the tradeoffs that come from different levels of physical and network access. The cyber theatre will give insight into potential vulnerabilities for operating systems, hardware applications, internet of things, devices, and anything else that runs in your computer. The cyber theatre can also be used as a demonstration space to show how computer forensics can reveal the digital footprints we leave behind.

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UWF Partners with IHMC to Develop First Intelligent Systems and Robotics Ph.D. in Florida

The University of West Florida has partnered with the Institute of Human and Machine Cognition to develop a doctoral program in intelligent systems and robotics.

The program will be the first of its kind in Florida and one of only a few in the nation.

“We are very excited about this new doctoral degree program,” said UWF President Martha D. Saunders. “The program brings together the strengths of UWF engineering and computer science programs with the expertise of a word class research center, IHMC. It’s a game-changer.”

The new doctoral program aligns with the university’s strategic vision for research that impacts Florida’s economic develop-

ment and technology enterprise. It will serve the manufacturing, health-care, defense, and other high-tech industries, providing critical support to high-demand career fields.

“I’ve envisioned a program like this for a long time,” said Ken Ford, director and co-founder of IHMC. “It will attract top young talent from around the world. This is such a great move not only for UWF and IHMC, but also for the state.”

According to a 2012 study by the National Robotics Initiative, robotics technology holds the potential to transform the future of the U.S. and is expected to become as ubiquitous over the next few decades as computer technology is today. The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook projects a 19% growth rate for computer and information technology research scientists over the next 10 years.

IHMC STEM-Talk Podcast STEM-Talk is an internationally acknowledged destination for top research scientists to share their findings in a long discussion format. STEM-Talk, with more than 1.5 million downloads, has consistently been in the running for major podcast awards and currently is ranked in iTunes Top 5 in Science and Technology. Beginning its 3rd season in 2019, STEM-Talk will hit its 100th episode later in the year. This spring, Dr. Ken Ford will participate in IHMC’s first Ask-Me-Anything podcast. If you’d like to tune in for conversations with some of the most interesting people in the world of science and technology, you can listen at http://stemtalk.us

IHMC and NASA Develop the Next Generation of Exercise Equipment

The IHMC Robotics Team has partnered with NASA on an exercise machine for long-duration deep-space missions. Now that NASA is seriously considering a manned mission to Mars, the agency is figuring out how to help astronauts maintain their bone density and prevent muscle loss.

“Astronauts who spend extended time in space show signs of accelerated aging,” says Ken Ford, IHMC’s director and co-founder. “But what’s really exciting is that if we find more efficient exercise methods for astronauts in space, these methods are also likely to be helpful to an aging population here on Earth.”

The IHMC team has begun to see that this device could provide a new way to perform resistance training on Earth. IHMC has hired Joe Gomes, the former strength and conditioning coach for the Oakland Raiders, to assist in understanding the science and practice of strength training and conditioning, and to ensure the device can be utilized by all people.

Robot arms pave the way to future productivity BY: RICK SAVAGE

The Latest—Modular Prosthetic Limb Johnny Matheny of Port Richey, Florida is the first ever to try a mind-controlled arm of the future. It has been developed by the John Hopkins Applied Physics Lab and funded with $120 million from the US Government’s Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency.

He controls the arm with his thoughts, sensors on his stump read muscle movement and then commands are sent to the prosthetic arm via Bluetooth. The arm was delivered December 2017 and he had all of 2018 to try it out.

CARS Motoring Off the Line

BY ANDREA DAVIS

Vehicles make things a lot easier from doing household chores to entertainment choices. 2018 had some great options but look at what’s motoring its way off the line for the upcoming year.

Industrial Servo Arm

FANUC is a world leader in industrial computer numerical control (CNC), robotics, and factory automation. It got its name from the acronym Fuji Automatic NUmerical Control. The College of Central Florida in Ocala has four of them to train the workforce of the future. The college offers two college credit certifications that aids in robotics: Automation and Mechatronics.

Consumer Robotics

Advancements in technology that are driven by the Federal Government and large businesses usually benefit the mass consumer market in the long run. According to the International Federation of Robotics they expect a boom in 2019 for robotics spending.

For parents who want to start their children off early the Cornerstone School has numerous STEM initiatives including robotics.

Their robotics program covers the age range from kindergarten to the eighth grade. Their two annual robotics tournaments include Robopalooza and Robofest. Robopalooza is January 5th from 8:30am to 4:30 pm.

Porsche:

A new Porsche 911 has been revealed for the 2019 auto year. It has the same familiar shape that we all know and love but has added a heavily revised range of six-cylinder turbo petrol engines that are more powerful than before. It features a new platform structure with more aluminum in the rear which improves weight distribution. Add in the new rear-wheel steering in the Carrera and Carrera S models for the first time provides the 911 with more agility and an improved high-speed capability. This model of Porsche offers a 10.1 touch screen informant along with a newly designed center console which provides a newly-designed gearlever, electronic handbrake switch, and a combination of touch-based and toggle-style switchgear for ancillary functions right at the touch of a fingertip.

Chevrolet:

A new Chevrolet Silverado 1500 is under the curtain for the new year. This new model is 450 lbs. lighter than its predecessor and brings with it a new design from the ground

JAN. 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

21

up with eight new models and six different engine and transmission choices. Though larger in almost every dimension, this new truck enables more cargo and interior space.

The all-new durabed offers best-in-class volume measuring at more than 20 percent of that of its competitors. Select packages on this vehicle will include additional safety features such as front and view park assist, lane change alert with blind zone alert, rear cross alert, and a following distance indicator.

treme than one would ever encounter. The new Ford Ranger comes with it a potent 2.3L Eco boost which is expected to surpass its competition of other gas-powered trucks in its class. When purchasing this vehicle consider the off-road package, a new feature that when activated, the electronic-locking

Hyundai: rear differential locks the axel completely at both wheels delivering the traction needed for that off-road feel. Select models will even assist you with a new feature called Ford Co-Pilot 360 which helps one navigate through increasingly crowded roads and highways. Such features involved with the Ford Co-Pilot 360 include Lane Keeping System, Blind Spot Information System with Cross Traffic alert, Rearview Camera, and Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking.

The new Hyundai Veloster has been redesigned both on the inside and the outside for the 2019 year. It maintains its unusual oneplus-two door layout but now also features a larger door on the driver side and two smaller doors on the passenger side. Using the same type of engine as the Elantra, this 147-horsepower, 2.0 liter four-cylinder engine gives it slightly more edge than its Elantra cousin.

Slightly longer than the 2018 model, the new Veloster comes with LED headlights, a 7-inch informant touch screen, the option to upgrade to larger wheels, a rearview camera, lane keep assist, and emergency braking.

Dodge:

An all-new 2019 Ram 1500 called the Rebel 12 has just been revealed for 2019. This vehicle goes even further with the interior loaded up on more premium features than would be expected in a rugged high-performance truck. Along with premium features, comes a new exterior with sculpted design of high-strength steel as a frame, smart cargo management and advanced technology both inside and out. The new Ram also provides safety features such as guided parking, smart cruising, and eyes all around viewing provided by a 360-degree surround view camera to provide an all-around vehicle picture to make parking, loading and unloading much safer. Â

Ford:

A brand-new Ford Ranger is being released, this time tested under conditions more ex-

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| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | JAN. 2019

Toyota:

The Toyota Yaris sedan has a fuel-efficient performance that just cannot be swayed. With a new lightweight body, agile handling and an estimated 40 mpg on the highway this vehicle is ready to prove its efficiency can go a long way and shouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be taken for granted. The Yaris comes stocked with a Low-speed Pre-Collision System and an active safety system so that one never needs to worry about safety while out and about. The Yaris also comes with auto turn on LED lights, heated mirrors with LED turn signals, a 7-inch informant screen, on steering wheel controls along with voice recognition for access to all your tunes.

While these are not all the vehicles that will be put forth on the market for 2019, these are just a few that expected to make a top notch in sales in the new year.

FOOD Food Moods R. JILL FINK, MFA

Almost everyone in the United States has been on some kind of “diet” in their lifetime, but an increasing number of people are making mealtime choices part of a permanent lifestyle change instead of a temporary switch. Fitness awareness, a need for healthy digestive systems and environmental factors are the trends driving these changes. For instance, vegan fare, herbal drinks and probiotic diets are becoming increasingly popular among adults as well as many teenagers.

Here are five food trends shaping the way Ocala eats.

Veg Out

One of the largest grocery chains in the south, Kroger, recently issued a statement that “More consumers are purchasing better-for-you products and subscribing to different eating styles, from vegetarian to flexitarian to keto and paleo.” Plant-based diets are gaining traction due to the vegetarian/vegan lifestyle trend being on the rise as many of us are opting to reduce our overall meat and dairy intake throughout the week.

Whether your choice is to participate in Meat Free Mondays, Flexitarian Fridays or going meat- and dairy-free altogether, many dieticians agree that our bodies appreciate and benefit from the change.

Kava is King

The development and consumption of healthier drinks is on the uptake as well.

More people are trying kava and kratom in liquid form; these herbal drinks have been

used for hundreds of years in other parts of the world, but are fast becoming popular in America. Kava possesses natural compounds that are known to reduce anxiety and stress, relieve muscle tension and help with physical pain. Kratom, indigenous to Thailand and nearby countries in Southeast Asia, can work as a stimulant or a sedative, depending on the type and dosage consumed. Organic kombucha, a fermented tea rich in probiotics and antioxidants, can now be found in flavors such as blueberry ginger and raspberry hibiscus. You can find all three of these drinks and more information on them at Ocala’s first and only kava bar, called Muddy Lotus. Read more about them in this issue.

Low Sugar

Greek yogurt and probiotic, low-fat milk fit into the digestive health regimen, but vegan milks like coconut, rice, almond and oat are making strides on replacing animal-sourced dairy products. Consumers are also demanding low-sugar products or those sweetened with natural, low-carb additives. Honey and agave are increasing in popularity, but coconut sugar, monkfruit and stevia are touted as healthier alternatives; most of which don’t affect the glycemic index of our food intake as much.

Gluten-Free

A “healthy gut” means great digestion of whatever you eat or drink. Since gastrointestinal issues have become a concern for millions of Americans, going gluten-free is sometimes a choice to avoid minor stomach upset, but for some, it’s a serious necessity due to neurological factors. An increasing number of restaurants in our area provide a gluten-free menu and vegan (or at least vegetarian) choices. Peruse the aisles of Publix or local health food stores such as Earth Origins or Earth Fare to find a growing selection of gluten-free, probiotic and antioxidant rich “superfoods” that fit well into almost every dietary need one might have.

FITNESS Trends in Training

BY COLT GATZEMEYER

The three health related concepts listed below are not new to 2019, however they are increasing in popularity and will provide the user a new stimulus to what they are currently doing. These will be more of a, “next level training” as opposed to a beginner level training.

Intermittent Fasting:

Intermittent fasting is the process of cycling in and out of periods of eating and not eating. Although people do experience weight loss with intermittent fasting, it is less of a diet plan and more of a lifestyle choice to reap some incredible health benefits.

There are different intermittent fasting methods. These are:

EAT NORMALLY FIVE DAYS A WEEK.

The other two days are your fasting days, although you do still eat. Just keep it between 500 and 600 calories.

EAT-STOP-EAT: With this one, you restrict all food for 24 hours, once or twice a week.

YOU EAT ALL OF YOUR DAILY CALORIES WITHIN A SHORTENED PERIOD —

typically 6 to 8 hours — and fast for the remaining 14 to 16 hours. You can do this every day, or a few times a week.

Fascia Stretch Training (FST):

It is based on the theory that the potential amount of muscle that you are going to build depends highly on your genetic make-up and the thickness of the fascia surrounding the muscle belly.

Performing 7 sets of 8-15 repetitions at the conclusion of your training is thought to stretch that fascia tissue, allowing maximum muscle growth.

Occlusion Training:

Commonly called Blood Flow Restriction training or (BFR). Occlusion training is essentially using a band around your arm or thigh to restrict blood flow, perform 2-3 sets of an exercise with higher repetitions. Then release the band to provide the muscle with a massive amount of fresh oxygenated blood.

JAN. 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

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3 5 2

SHE MEANS BUSINESS

WARHORSE HARLEY-DAVIDSON (352) 732-2488 5331 N US Hwy 441 Ocala, FL 34475

HOURS OF OPERATION Mon - Sat 9am - 6pm Sunday 10am - 6pm

PERSON of the year

Solid Foundation Ocala Magazine’s Person of the Year —

Digvijay “Danny” Gaekwad In 2018, Danny Gaekwad’s new hotel, Hilton Garden Hotel, broke ground in downtown Ocala on the site of the former Ocala/ Marion County Chamber of Commerce. The new hotel, due to open in Jan 2020, will feature three restaurants, including a rooftop hotel for scenic views of downtown Ocala, and boutique shops on the ground level, which will forever change the face of downtown Ocala, and increase visitors making the already revamped downtown into a destination.

BY: JOHN SOTOMAYOR | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN JERNIGAN

U

pon the foundation of one convenience store, Digvijay “Danny” Gaekwad built a real estate empire in North Central Florida. He turned the one store in Orlando into three, sold some, and used the money to invest upon more. He acquired more stores in Lake City.

He was successful there, running eight stores between Lake City to Lake Butler. In the next eight years, he bought and sold a chain of 26 convenience stores throughout Florida.

That began 30 years ago. It was cheaper to acquire real estate property in rural areas such as he did, but much riskier to operate. Would he generate enough business to keep it going?

That was where and when he learned his most valuable lesson in business — if you are good to the community you do business in and help them grow, the community will pay you back with patronage of your businesses. He knew he would become involved in civic and board appointments, and build a strong relationship with local government and the local Chamber of Commerce. That he would give back through leadership and charitable contributions and events. First, he and his wife had to decide upon a city or town to build as their home base.

Before starting a family, Gaekwad fathered two sons, Karan and Kunal, he and his wife Manisha moved around quite a bit covering territory from Orlando and Lakeland, up to Lake City. Ocala was central, so became their ideal consideration for their base.

“We chose Ocala because it was the

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ideal size we were looking for,” said Gaekwad, “It had the amenities of a big city, but not the density where one could ‘get lost.’”

Ocala welcomed Gaekwad from the beginning.

“My first day in Ocala, Chuck Cole’s company gave me a great lunch,” recalled Gaekwad. That relationship opened doors.

He quickly established relationships, becoming good friends with City Council members and the mayor.

“I knew right then, this was where I wanted to build my home,” said Gaekwad.

He made up his mind that Ocala would be the city he would make a lasting impact.

In 2018, Gaekwad broke ground in downtown Ocala on the site of the former Ocala/ Marion County Chamber of Commerce, and previously where the historic Ocala House Hotel once stood. The new hotel, Hilton Garden Hotel, is due to open in Jan 2020. It will feature three restaurants, including a rooftop hotel for scenic views of downtown Ocala, with 10 residential apartments on the second floor, and retail shops on the ground level, which will forever change the face of downtown Ocala. It will also increase visitors making the already revamped downtown into a destination. For this and for other contributions Gaekwad has made in 2018, he has been selected as Ocala Magazine’s Person of the Year.

GAEKWAD’S VISION

Born in Baroda, India, the son of a judge and the grandson of a Colonel in the Indian Army, Gae-

kwad loved his new home, Ocala. The schools were ideal for his sons, and the home they built for themselves was comfortable. The only thing that Gaekwad thought could be improved was the downtown area. It was the late 1980s-early 1990s and downtown Ocala was boarded up, the outcome of a poor economy. Having seen what was being done in The Villages — with culturally-driven plazas filled with sounds of music, the sights of artisans, and the smells of culinary restaurants, Gaekwad thought the same could and should be duplicated in downtown Ocala.

“I have always wanted a good downtown, where you could walk with your family for a relaxed good time,” said Gaekwad. “I imagined a place where I could go with friends or family and enjoy a cup of coffee, good food, nice music, these were my dream of downtown.”

Gaekwad’s ancestors ruled the city of Baroda, India for 260 years, developing Baroda to the metropolitan city it is today.

Gaekwad knew when he arrived here, that he would contribute what he could to make Ocala a vibrant center for community life that he knew it could be. He had done so through a variety of successful entrepreneurships and civic appointments.

SUCCESSFUL BUSINESSMAN

Gaekwad’s flagship business is Danny Gaekwad Developing & Investments. That parent company, oversees his real estate investments and his other subsidiaries including NDS USA — a medical billing and transcrip-

Gaekwadâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ancestors ruled the city of Baroda, India for 260 years, developing Baroda to the metropolitan city it is today.

Gaekwad knew when he arrived here, that he would contribute what he could to make Ocala a vibrant center for community life that he knew it could be.

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pointed by Gov. Rick Scott to the Board of tion company, and his hospitality businesses: boards of numerous public, private and nonTrustees of University of Central Florida.

MGM Hotels, and DG Hospitality. MGM profit organizations. Since 2009, Gaekwad has These calls had become a regular occurHotels and DG Hospitality oversees the Holbeen a member of the board of directors of Enrence over time. iday Inn and Suites Ocala Convention Centerprise Florida Inc, a public-private partnership Over the years, Gaekwad’s companies ter, and the Golden Spoon winning restaurant between Florida’s businesses and government have created thousands of jobs in Florida from 2010 — 2018, Sky Fine Dining, perched leaders, and is the principal economic developand other parts of the United States. His on the highest floor of the hotel, respectively. ment organization for Florida. Its mission, accompanies contributed hundreds of millions Gaekwad has recently added a second cording to their website, is to “expand and diverof dollars to the economy. In 2016, Gov. hotel right next door to the Holiday Inn and sify the state’s economy through job creation.”

Rick Scott awarded Gaekwad with the “One Suites Ocala Convention Center, a new Hol“Governor Scott gave us a goal of 1 milMillion Jobs” certificate of appreciation for iday Inn Express Hotel. He has plans to build lion jobs, not an easy task,” said Gaekwad. By his contribution “in helping Florida job crea Tru by Hilton in Gainesville, FL and in the our seventh year, we reach 700,000 jobs. BY ators add 1 million jobs between December process of building a new accelerator in downthe eight year, we reached 1.4 million jobs. I 2010 and December 2015.” town Orlando, which will house in Exchange am proud to serve on that team.”

Other awards and building at the historic recognitions at the local, Church Street Station.

“In the future, I would like to add an apartment complex state and national levers The accelerator will host adding to the Ocala skyline, visible from 441, and a for his accomplishments a program offering startgrocery store, like a Trader Joe’s or Fresh Market.” in business, and comup businesses with the munity services include: opportunity to present Asian American Hotel Owners Assotheir business plan to venture capitalists to get Gaekwad is also currently an executive ciation Chairman’s Awards (AAHOA is the investment funding, similar to the popular TV board member and Finance Chair of Visit largest trade group of hotel owners in the Show, Shark Tank. Gaekwad said he would Florida, the official tourism marketing corworld. Its 20,000 members own every seclove to introduce a similar program to Ocala. poration of the state. ond hotel in the United States) Gaekwad’s current real estate holdings “We had a goal of 100 million tourists, include hotels, golf courses, restaurants, campand we reached that,” said Gaekwad. “The best • Lion of the Year Award grounds, automated car washes and commeryear we had prior was 2007, with 80 million • Leaders Leader Award, Marion County cial retail throughout Florida. A 350-acre tourists. Our new goal is 120 million tourists.

• Community Service Award from the Gaekwad’s Villages Mixed-Use Development I am very proud to serve on that team as well.”

Federation of Indian Seniors Associais in the process of developing 1,100 residential Gaekwad currently serves the board of tion of North America (August 2017) lots, 300 apartments and a four-acre commerdirector of Florida Chamber of Commerce.

• Pride of India Award 2017 cial site at The Villages, one of the fastest growIn the past, Gaekwad served on several other • Glorious India Chairman’s Award 2017 ing communities in the United States. boards, including former Chairman, Mari• In November 2018, he was honored Gaekwad’s multi-purpose development, on County Visitor and Convention Bureau, by the National Federation of Indian Hilton Garden Hotel in downtown Ocala former Chairman, Marion County Tourism American Associations in Washington will be a game-changer. Not only will it have Development Council, former Vice ChairD.C. with the Business & Entreprehigh-end, comfortable rooms to rent, but man, Marion County Planning and Zoning neurship award. will have 10 residential units on the second Commissioner, former board member, Space • In late November 2018, Gaekwad was listfloor, retail shops on the ground floor, another Florida, the agency responsible for aerospace ed among the 45 advisors Governor-Elect 7,000 square-foot space for retail shopping economic development in Florida, and former Ron DeSantis appointed to the Transition on a higher floor, and three restaurants withboard member, Independence National Bank.

Advisory Committee on the Economy. in the hotel, including one on the top floor, • In December 2018, Gaekwad received offering the best views in Downtown Ocala.

ACCOLADES the news he was selected as Ocala Mag“In the future, I would like to add an apartazine’s Person of the Year.

Gaekwad was vacationing in India in Janument complex adding to the Ocala skyline, vis“I am honored and humbled by this,” said ary 2018 when he got a call at 1 A.M. from ible from 441, and a grocery store,” said GaeGaekwad upon hearing the news of his selection.

Governor Rick Scott. It would have been 3 kwad. “Like a Trader Joe’s or Fresh Market.”

“God and Ocala have been very good P.M. in Florida.

For now, Gaekwad envisions the Hilton to me,” said Gaekwad. “This is the reason I “He said to me, ‘I know you are on vaGarden Hotel taking on an iconic role and reinvest back into Ocala.” cation however I could not wait to tell you, presence as its predecessor, the historic OcaIndeed, Gaekwad’s gift of reinvestment that I have appointed you to the UCF Board la House Hotel once did. will surely leave a lasting impact on the city. of Trustees, do you accept?’” said Gaekwad.

His buildings and his leadership contribu“I thought ‘why would I not accept?’ I replied tions serve as his legacy to the city he and his ‘I would be honored sir, absolutely.’”

IMPACTFUL CIVIC APPOINTMENTS wife years ago chose to call home.

In February 2018, Gaekwad was apOver the past 30 years, Gaekwad served on the

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Traveling Speed Heart at the of my

STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY RONALD W. WETHERINGTON

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Photo: Shutterstock

Travel is the greatest escape so I have been an escape artist the whole of my adult life. Suffice it to say I am a well-heeled traveler. However, my perennial wanderlust was not the real reason for this trip to France, Germany and England.

Nevertheless, as the subject tears at my heart I will approach the true purpose of my trip in due time. Waiting for my flight to Paris, time drags at my heels, as I am ever eager to soar like an American eagle into the wild blue yonder.

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O

ften referred to as the “City of Light,”

Often referred to as the “City of Light,” the French capital is one of Europe’s most stunning and influential metropolitan centers. Paris has a certain je ne sais quoi where grace, style and fashion chic are all combined with glorious results. After checking into my hotel and easing out of my jet lag, I headed to my very favorite restaurant in Paris. It should come as no surprise it is also especially quite popular with many American tourists although wildly expensive. I was ready to celebrate my birthday.

Opened in 1582, La Tour D’ Argent restaurant overlooks the Seine River and has memorable views of the flying buttresses of Notre Dame. But it wasn’t the view I came for as outstanding as that was. I began by taking an elevator down to their wine cellar since they have a 400-page wine list. This venerable restaurant serves classic French food and is famous for its pressed duck. Mine was impeccably served from underneath a large silver dome and carved tableside by the superior waitstaff. It was a very professional preparation and presentation of duck. La Tour D’ Argent raises and numbers their own ducks.

Jackets are required for gentleman at dinner and reservations are recommended months in advance with a 200 Euro deposit.

After my birthday dinner, I contentedly retired to my hotel room which will be my base of operations for several days and nights in Paris. The wine had a somnolent effect.

Reflective now, I thought to myself that age devastates some of us. It decimates our skin, our bones, our lungs and sometimes kills our hearts both figuratively and literally.

For myself, I find age has not yet devoured me. When I get back to the Sunshine State’s highways and by-ways, I look forward to leisurely driving country roads canopied

by Spanish moss dripping from live oaks. I will drive fast down life’s highways circum-

navigating the ravages of time. Plumping the pillow beneath my head, I realize I will be embarking on a river cruise in France and then on to Germany. The end destination of this journey will be a Princess.

At 41 square miles, it was impossible for me to walk all of Paris’ wonderful neighborhoods during my short stay. I stopped for a long time at the Eiffel Tower built for the Paris Universal Exposition in 1889. During the period the Eiffel Tower was being constructed, residents and visitors were shocked by how very modern it looked. Coffee and a freshly baked croissant renew my energies.

I believe that the very best reason to visit Paris is to tour the Louvre Museum on the right bank of the Seine River. Probably the most famous painting is like an old friend to me and that is Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa which is in the High Renaissance collection. The Mona Lisa’s enigmatic smile now hides behind bullet proof glass in a climate-controlled room to preserve her for another 500 years and beyond.

Hours sped by all too fast as I tried to simultaneously relax and see as many famous sights as possible. The French Gothic architecture of the Notre Dame Cathedral continues to reenergize my soul. I paused long admiring the beauty of its singular rose windows.

You know how it is when you are on vaca-

It comes as almost a physical shock not to have constant and immediate Internet connections while we are on the Rhone River. The Internet service was sporadic at best on the river portion of my journey.

tion. You want to unwind and refresh but there is so much to see and do. Some of my most relaxing hours were spent in Claude Monet’s Giverny home and gardens outside of Paris.

Monet settled there in 1883 and daisies and poppies grow with rare flowers. Monet’s famous Japanese bridge and lily pond are captured in his impressionistic art work.

One of the very best ways to serenely and tranquilly see France is by boat which is exactly what I did. I paid for my own travel with Grand Circle Travel which has its own cruise line. From luxuriating in a private cabin to only 45 passengers, the boat trip was intimate and eye opening. Typically, we toured small towns and locales such as the Burgundy region during the day and cruised at night when resting my legs in a deck side chair felt so very good. Authentic French cuisine was served on board the boat and additionally we stopped with a local family for a private at home visit. You can see why Grand Circle Travel is one of my favorite tour groups.

I prefer to travel alone but on this river part of my trip I was with an organized group of all-American fellow travelers. It comes as almost a physical shock not to have constant and immediate Internet connections while we are on the Rhone River. The Internet service was sporadic at best on the river portion of my journey.

Connectivity is identity. We know who we are based on our communicative connections. Hand to ear, hand to keyboard, finger to touch screen, we bond as we electronically identify who we are. Travel without an Internet connection for even for as short a span as a few hours undoes me and I feel naked and alone. The transmission lines have been pulled out of the electronic door which shields me.

My electronic door has fallen down and it lies on the deck of the ship as real people Photo: Shutterstock

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demand to be interacted with. There in the corner of the deck is the woman who will not stop talking. There in the chaise is the blind man with his seeing-eye wife. I retreat to a lecture on board ship given by one of the program directors on French wine, cheese and bread. After a hearty meal, I wave off further conversation and take up a solitary station at the bow of the ship. The river’s winds sweep away bleak thoughts of aloneness. Water laps and tugs at the ship’s hull.

From my solitary post as the sun sets in the west, I watch as a fish arches it back and does an in-air somersault. There is something about night on board a ship that swaddles one like a warm blanket.

Aboard ship, we experienced the Loire Valley which is known as the “Garden of France” or the “Cradle of the French.”There are sweeping vistas of vineyards from which some of the finest and most expensive wines in the world come from. There are also fruit orchards and fields of artichoke and asparagus along the banks of the river. Of especial note are the remarkable chateaux of French kings and royalty.

There are more than 300 notable chateaux and some have been lived in by the same family for centuries. The chateaux of Chenonceau, Chambord and Blois are legendary.

Days were spent capturing the oldworld charms of ancient cathedrals and their intricate ancient tapestries, Roman ruins and authentic market visits. Nights cradled me although there were times I wanted to be no where as much as behind my own doors in Ocala. It is a paradox isn’t it? Wishing to travel but ever longing for home and wondering how things and people are that one left behind in the rush to see the world.

After disembarking from the ship, I headed directly to the French Riviera which is on the southeast coast of France on the Mediterranean Sea at the foot of the Alps.

Its natural beauty and mild climate lured the painters Marc Chagall and Musee Matisse.

I toured Nice which is a premier resort and strolled the famous Promenade des Anglais where Queen Victoria of Great Britain once walked at leisure. The French Riviera is in the Cote D’Azur region and was one of the first modern resort areas attracting the British upper class at the end of the 18th century and later Russian nobility. Today’s “royalty” in the French Riviera has star power being

Ronald W. Wetherington, Monet’s Garden , Giverny, France

Some of my most relaxing hours were spent in Claude Monet’s Giverny home and gardens outside of Paris. Monet settled there in 1883 where daisies and poppies grow with rare flowers.

Horsemen at French bull farm

celebrities of cinematic fame.

As much as I relished visiting Paris again and savoring the slow pace of the river boat tour of France, neither was the compelling reason for this European trip. For over four decades, I have been close friends with HRH Maria Josefa Princess of Saxony. Her family was gathering from the four corners of the globe to celebrate her birthday and I knew it

The Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci, Louvre Museum, Paris

was imperative that I see my long-time friend at one of her finest hours in Munich, Germany.

Sometimes, late in the autumn of the year, a singular red rose will open and blossom on one of my rose bushes. Mausi—as the Princess and Duchess of Saxony is known to friends such as myself—is such a spectacular bloom in my life. Mausi called me Ronnie which is my name that only my family uses.

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Monaco yacht harbor

Oktoberfest musicians, Munich, Germany

Changing of the Guard, Monte Carlo, Monaco

Casino Monte Carlo

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Glockenspiel Clock, City Hall, Munich, Germany

Prince Albert Duke of Saxony and Princess Gisela of Bavaria

Royal titles always impressed me and still do. Something of the regal blood line clings to the nobility of my friend HRH Princess of Saxony which her every day attire belies. There are no coincidences. This is too true considering that in 1973 fate or destiny intervened and I was invited to a birthday party in Munich. I just had finished reading The Rise and Fall of the Third Reich.

When I entered the living room the night of the birthday party, the first lady I met was Frau Grundig of Grundig radio fame. Next, I was introduced to Emmy Goring who was a German actress and the second wife of Luftwaffe Commander-in-Chief Hermann Goring with her daughter Edda.

The apartment was filled with a likely cast of characters some of them straight from the living pages of German history.

And, lo and behold, sitting on the sofa in stately black attire was HRH Maria Josefa Princess of Saxony. Our friendship blossomed then and there since I had found a position in the translation department of the Deutsche Bank and remained in Munich for several years. Over the four decades of our friendship, the Princess visited me several times in Miami Beach. But leaping years ahead to the present, this was to be the last visit between myself and the Princess. The occasion was her 89th birthday dinner.

By now it was late September and already Oktoberfest, the sixteen-day festival of beer from late September to the first weekend of October was in full swing in Munich. As an American abroad, I was somewhat fearful of crowds and there was no chance that I would be one of the “Bierleichen” or beer corpses. My ein bisschen Deutsch or “a little German” was sufficient unto itself as I ordered a single glass of wine. I always had loved Munich as it is the capital city of Bavaria and the third most populous city in Germany.

When I walked into the Princess’ birthday dinner, a small sea of prominent German and family guests parted before me and the Princess greeted me in her perfect English. I was quick to thank her for the welcoming fruit basket she had delivered to my hotel room.

“So glad you could come. So very glad.

So very very happy to see you Ronnie. I remember you as a very handsome young man and now you are a still very handsome mature gentleman.”

For over four decades, I have been close friends with HRH Maria Josefa Princess of Saxony. Her family was gathering from the four corners of the globe to celebrate her 89th birthday. So off to Munich, Germany I went.

Ronald W. Wetherington and Maria Josefa Princess of Saxony

I had to fight back the tears welling up in my eyes as I bent low and took her hand and kissed it. Her hands were cold to the touch when I took them in mine. Her skeletal bones gripped tightly by my much younger warm flesh and skin. She had lost weight. Her diminutiveness struck me like a blow to the stomach and I drew in long breaths as I sat down next to her so as not to tower over royalty. I could see that she could not get up without assistance. I thought to myself that she did not look very well however exquisitely dressed for her special birthday dinner. Her advancing years had wiped away the vim and vigor that so distinguished this already distinguished aristocrat. Now the only word I could think to use to describe her was fragile.

I found my place card and seated near me was her daughter, HRH Maria Christina Princess of Saxony and we shared pleasantries as Mausi greeted guests and received birthday presents. Her birthday dinner party was being held in Nyphenburg at an elegant restaurant next to the palace which was the summer residence of the kings of Bavaria.

The prime rib dinner was perfection and served in candle light. The champagne and wine, as they say, flowed.

Highlighting the importance of Mausi’s 89th birthday dinner, the head of the family and his relations had flown in from Mexico City. Prince Alexander, Duke of Saxony, delivered a speech filled with praise about the Princess which was spoken in German. He is married to Princess Gisela of Bavaria. Also

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Garden view of Buckingham Palace, London, England

Big Ben, London, England

in attendance was Count Heinrich Speriti who is president of the German Sotheby’s.

My friend Maggie Ortel-Agun had accompanied me to the dinner and was quickly making new acquaintances.

I went from table to table taking commemorative pictures of the assembled royals as much as for myself as for them. Time had passed and all my German friends except for Mausi were gone. The solemnity of this final festive occasion between myself and the Princess weighed down upon me with each passing moment. I could tell by her daughter’s concerned looks that the dinner had been a strain on her mother and she wished to get her home to the warmth and comfort of her bed.

“Mausi. I have to leave.”

Again, I bent low and kissed the hand of the Princess. There were no long goodbyes. Pausing at the doorway, I took a long last look at my friend of over forty years and

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Swan in garden of Buckingham Palace

felt my heart drop inside my chest. In my heart, I knew that this was a final look at my royal friend. Time stood still.

On a happier note, during my stay in Munich, I had the occasion to renew the acquaintance of Gloria Princess von Thurn und Taxis. Her multi-billionaire husband, the late Prince Johannes von Turn und Taxis, had been a good friend to me during my Munich years and their family had later visited me on their ocean-going yacht in Miami Beach.

During this visit with “Princess TNT” as the press had once dubbed her, we had a delicious lunch in her palace, Schloss St. Emmeram.

The palace is in the historic heart of Regensburg and at over 550 rooms is exquisite. I was laughing so hard when I was leaving as Princess Gloria raced us on her golf cart through the old narrow streets from the palace to front door of the train station with locals calling out “Princess!” Princess!”

Too soon my time in Germany was over and I had decided when planning this trip to end my journey with several days visiting London where I once lived in the exclusive neighborhood of Knightsbridge replete with upscale shops and restaurants. Years fell away as I once again shopped in world famous Harrods a luxury department store in Knightsbridge.

Not to be missed is the British Museum. Of particular interest to me were the Elgin Marbles, a collection of classical Greek marble sculptures originally housed in the Temple of the Parthenon and other buildings on the Acropolis in Athens.

For me, the most quintessential site in London is Buckingham Palace. Buckingham Palace is Queen Elizabeth II’s official residence and is a working royal palace. I toured the magnificent state rooms which included the white drawing room, throne room, picture gallery, and marveled at the treasures of

Elgin Marbles, British Museum, London

Traveling is liberating and thrilling to voyage around the globe to see, hear, and taste all that the world has to offer. the palace. The changing of the guard ceremony was especially memorable as I was only a foot away from the marching guards.

At the end of my private tour of Buckingham Palace I took high tea in the garden café which overlooks the famous palace lawn. This is also the private garden of the royal family and is used for garden parties.

Over my tea, sandwiches and cake in the Buckingham Palace Garden Café, I became contemplative. I had been absent from America for close to a month and my journey was almost at an end. Alone, I realized that a golden era of my life was coming to a close. I was ending a chapter of my life. Spread out before me were less years than lay behind me.

I tried to brighten my mood by vowing then and there to make them the best years of my life. But the words rang hollow.

It hit me like a ton of bricks that most if not all of my glory years were now behind me and not ahead of me. The “good ole days” I remember my grandmother saying as she described her youth as one of the pioneer families of Miami. The is what others before me had meant about the “good ole days.” The sweet days of childhood languid with endless hours of ice cream cones, candy bars, soda pop and comic books. The quick spurt of adolescence as time seemed to speed up when as a teenager I rocketed between mood swings of hope and despair. The years in business and

the accumulation of wealth and property. And now, how the years had raced away with fewer years ahead of me than behind me.

I am back home in Ocala now comfortable in my home and content with the companionship of my local friends. Months after her birthday dinner, HRH Maria Josefa Princess of Saxony has gone on to her heavenly reward. Why is it that those we hold most dear pass out of our lives all too soon? I swallow hard some dry white wine from Germany and listen to the fountains outside my home’s bedroom French doors. The past, I read somewhere, is a foreign country. It is a remote and vast place to which no passports are issued. I am alone in the solitude of my home except for my two Abyssinian cats. Time, I thought to myself, is no friend of mine.

Grand Circle Travel is on Facebook. For more trip information, call 1-800-221-2610.

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eat

INSIDE:

Lotus Dine Serenely p40

They say it’s just like your average bar — only without the alcohol. The brews available at Muddy Lotus Tea include Kombucha, Kava, coffee and tea. In a word, it’s kale-licious!

Dining Out p44

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on the menu

Kava-

licious!

“Be like a lotus. Let the beauty of your heart speak. Be grateful to the mud, water, air and the light.” —Amit Ray STORY BY R. JILL FINK, MFA, FOOD EDITOR PHOTOGRAPHY BY KEVIN BISCHOF

E

ach year, the Marion County area improves through the valiant efforts of our dedicated citizens and leaders. Ocala just got even more amazing. Welcome Kibbie, Sonya, and the spectacular staff at Muddy Lotus Tea, our very first and only ethnobotanical tea and coffee bar. They offer up a beautiful, alcohol-free space for anyone 18 and over who wishes to relax or recharge.

Five years ago, the dream of opening a kava bar started for Kibbie and her partner, Sonya Ritchie After scouring the state, they decided upon our fair city for the location of their store. They chose the 100-year-old building standing at 520 NE 1st Avenue, and a massive renovation transformed the dilapidated structure into something welcoming, peaceful and wondrous. Immediately upon entering, one can feel the calm interior taking them in. There are chalk walls to draw upon, a few interesting hand-painted Star Wars™ figures, a Matrix wall, and a back room for darts and other games. The main

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room features super-comfortable leather chairs and couches, a floor that emulates water, a “bubble wall,” and of course, the enticing bar itself.

The kavatenders at Muddy Lotus Tea can serve you a variety of diverse, handcrafted drinks created to order. Try the Kava; it’s widely known as “nature’s stress remedy” as it can have a calming effect. It is said to reduce anxiety and insomnia by influencing GABA receptors and stimulating dopamine receptors.

Kava is an all-natural, plant root-based product that normally has a bit of a bitter taste, but it can be flavored with an endless array of ingredients to make tasty combinations. One of the most popular drinks available is the “Nut Job;” a delicious, coldpressed hazelnut decaf coffee with handcrafted, infused kava. They follow tradition

by massaging the oils out of the kava, so you’re getting a pure experience with the best quality ingredients available.

Kratom is another menu choice; it can be ingested as a pre-workout energizer or to reduce stress, anxiety and pain. The “vein” types are available; green, white and red. The kratom at Muddy Lotus Tea is a pure leaf and not an extract or a synthetic. This herbal supplement is indigenous to Southeast Asia and Thailand; it has been consumed there for over five hundred years. It is sometimes used to increase productivity or even boost the immune system. I highly recommend the Orange Lotus, a delectable and nottoo-sweet drink made with French vanilla coconut creamer. We also tried the amazing Organic Apple Kratom flavored with French vanilla coconut creamer and a dash of organic cinnamon.

The Cacao Shot was pure organic cacao with a bit of maple syrup. Not only was it divinely chocolatey without being overwhelmingly sweet, it was also full of iron and minerals. Who said supplements had to taste bad?

Several kombucha drinks are also available at Muddy Lotus Tea. This increasingly popular fermented tea is seeing quite a resurgence in the last two years. Popular, yet not very tasty back in the late 90s, the organic kombucha served nowadays comes in many flavor choices. Try it for its antioxidant and probiotic qualities.

Other beverages available are Dirty Lemonade, infused with charcoal for detoxification; hot chocolate, orange juice, ginger ale and lots of kava and kratom shots. Every drink at Muddy Lotus Tea is vegan; they even use vegan whipped creams and flavorings.

They also serve cold brewed, nitro-infused coffee; nitrous oxide drastically reduces the bitterness of coffee. They filter all of the water that goes into the drinks, ice, and even the water used to wash cups, utensils and equipment. Their plastic cups and straws are compostable and their paper goods are recycled and biodegradable.

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Senior citizens, Veterans, Service Industry, Marion County Public School employees and City of Ocala employees can enjoy a 10% discount at any time; first responders get 50% off their order. Donate a coat to get a free drink or a pair of socks for the homeless and get 20% off your check. They also offer yoga classes on Saturday mornings, a live DJ and fire-spinning (poi) on Saturday nights, and many more community-minded events throughout the week. Check their Facebook page or their Instagram for all of the current happenings.

As owner/operators of Leather Solutions and being in the high end leather restoration business for over 30 years, Kibbie and Sonya wanted to do even more to help make a long-lasting difference in peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lives. They have graciously and humbly provide a safe, calm and gorgeous space for all of us to enjoy and a way that we can connect with each other through acceptance.

Surround yourself with wonderful music and restful lighting while you enjoy fantastic drinks, great service, and caring people. Stop in today to experience the vibe at Muddy Lotus Tea; your body and mind will thank you for it.

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dining

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| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | JAN. 2019

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

Pi on Broadway Featuring Ocala’s only open air, rooftop bar and dining space, Pi is THE place for lunch, dinner and nightlife.

A local favorite for after-work happy hour gatherings and guests visiting historic downtown, Pi offers craft beer, wine and cocktails from two full bars. Enjoy delicious and unique pizza from an open-flame oven or explore the “shareables” menu with a group of friends. Pi also offers sandwiches, salads and desserts all made fresh in-house daily.

Live music Wednesday through Saturday

Tues 4p–12a, Wed-Sat 11a–12a, Sun 4p–10p, Mon Closed 110 SW Broadway St., Ocala, FL 34471 | 352-369-5100 www.pionbroadway.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 JAN. 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

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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. Sky also features a sushi menu made with fresh ingredients. Golden Spoon Award Winner 7 consecutive years - 2010 to 2017. Sky is the place to be for a unique fine dining experience.

GOLDEN SPOON AWARD WINNER 7 CONSECUTIVE YEARS! 2010 TO 2017

Special menu Friday through Wednesday

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

Katya Vineyards Katya Vineyards Tasting Room, owned by David, Patricia and Kat Sokol, is a boutique winery and eatery on the Square that pairs local wines with locallysourced, fresh cuisine in a quaint, relaxing atmosphere.

Award-winning Chef Tony Deras changes the menu each week, carefully selecting ingredients to balance taste, texture and beauty. Follow them on Facebook for info on wine tastings, wine pairing dinners and cooking demos. Private event space available by appointment.

EN W KITCH FULL NE PEN!!!

NOW O

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Wed/Thurs 2p–10p (kitchen 4-close) • Fri/Sat 2p–11p (kitchen 2-close) 101 E. Silver Springs Blvd. Ste 102, Ocala, FL 34470 | 352-528-CORK (2675) www.katyavineyards.com

Now offering certified Japanese Kobe!

KATYA

play

INSIDE:

Great 100 Nurses Celebration p48 The Great 100 of Marion County is a peer recognition celebration honoring the nursing profession by: • Recognizing the importance of Registered Nurses in diverse practice settings

•

Positively impacting the image of nursing and nursing as a profession • Acknowledging 100 Marion County Nurses annually who demonstrate excellence in practice and commitment to

•

their profession Contributing funds for scholarships for Registered Nurse education for Marion County candidates

5th Annual Vets Helping Vets Magical Christmas Party p50

JAN. 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

47

socially speaking

PLAY

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

Celebrating 100 Great Nurses

R

ecently, during the National Nurse Practitioner Week, the Marion County Nurses Association hosted the 2018 Great 100 Nurses of Marion County celebration at the Ewers Century Center on the College of Central Florida’s campus. Proceeds from this event went towards scholarships for registered nurse education for Marion County candidates. The Great 100 Nurses celebration is important in that it gives nurses from all institutions and practice areas a chance to socialize and network in a not work-related environment as well as spotlight diversity in practice areas and reward excellence.

Participating sponsors of the 100 Great

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Nurses event included the two majority employers of nurses in our community, which are Ocala Health Systems that includes Ocala Regional Medical Center and West Marion Community Hospital as well as Florida Hospital Ocala which was formerly Munroe Regional Medical Center. Additional support came from local businesses as well as the primary source of nurses for our community for many years, which is the College of Central Florida and the College of Central Florida Foundation.

The Marion County Nurses Association is a professional organization dedicated to promoting the health and welfare of our community. Their energies are primarily directed at advancing the art and science of nursing through educational and other health related activities. Directors of the Marion County Nurses Association include Mary Clark, APRN, Dr. Allison Brewer-Reed, APRN and Carol Blakeman, APRN. Carol Blakeman observes, “One of the reasons the Great 100 celebration is important is that it recognizes 100 nurses for doing an outstanding job. It does not limit this celebration to one nurse. It does not distinguish any of the 100 nurses as being better than another. It celebrates their diversity to provide optimal client care in a variety of areas. Each of the nurses selected for the Great 100 stood out in some manner.

All of them went beyond their employment roles to improve the life of Marion County.”

A nurse’s education is rigorous. Dr. Stephanie Cortes, who is Dean of Health Sciences at the College of Central Florida, emphasizes, “When a student enters nursing school, they must go through a total transformation in the way they study, think and act. Nursing is a career that requires individuals to think critically and act quickly in response to a patient’s presentation. Nursing

Heidi Maier and Cheryl Sirmons

school is intense and expectations are high.

After all, a patient’s life could be on the line if a mistake is made. That is why nursing students are required to spend so much time in the skills lab, simulation lab and clinical setting prior to graduation. We want graduates to be as prepared as possible for what they will face in today’s health care environment.”

Most will agree that nursing is more than just a profession, it is a calling. There is a growing need for nurses and vacancies are difficult to fill. Many older nurses are retiring at a much faster rate than they can be replaced. This creates a need for nurses that is difficult to fill. Mary Clark notes, “It is crucial for the future of Marion County that we attract bright young people to nursing and help them with scholarships whenever possible.

The majority of our nurses are trained locally.”

Nursing is an excellent career choice.

Kreychel Ordiway, RN notes, “Nursing is a calling in my opinion. The reward is seeing your patient recover from a serious illness.

Another rewarding part to me is when I’m honoring a patient’s end of life wishes and helping the patient and family through their last days and last hours together.”

To further assist in the education of nurses, consider contributing to the scholarship fund of the Marion County Nurses Association or the College of Central Florida.

Jessica McCune, Lamar and Lorna Rembert Renate Leonard, Courtney McCallam, Shannon De Jesus and Soraya Fountain

Andrea and Timothy Huntor and Wendy Clark Mary Clark and Dr. Stephanie Cortes

Dr. Pravina Patel, Veronica Ryan, Linda Guas and Taylor Gambrel

Larrie Watson, Raquel Hendershof, Nicole Williamson and Jaimie Bishop

Sabring Jones and Donna Rios

Chris Knof, Lindsey Hathaway, Al May and Darryl Washington

Yolanda Rogers, Lemuel Robinson, Cheryl Street and Dalazia Caldwell Debe Hurley and Lee Small

Sami and Kimberli Stafford, Casey Platt and Jenny Magnuson

Christopher Seaborne, Celyriah Dalton and Tashara Stafford

Kailyn Howard and Art Osberg

JAN. 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

49

socially speaking

PLAY

STORY BY JOHN SOTOMAYOR PHOTOS BY KEVIN BISCHOF

5th Annual Magical Christmas – Rock Around the Clock

T

he evening began with an evocation by Rev. Morris L. Ritter, Chaplain followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by Bob Levenson, USMC, and concluded with a festive Best Male and female Rock and Roll Stars costume contest, inspired by a Sock Hop theme. The occasion was the 5th Annual Magical Christmas dinner event, Rock Around the Clock, benefiting Veterans Helping Veterans USA, Inc. (VHVUSA) at the Holiday Inn and Suites Ocala Conference Center. In between hundreds of people gathered and enjoyed an evening of dining, dancing, and entertainment. At one point, Crooner Mark Raisch performed Nat King Cole’s “Unforgettable.” The evening was certainly unforgettable.

To begin, everyone who attended had to enter underneath a jukebox inspired archway leading into the ballroom, taking photos with the evening hosts, Hank Whittier, Executive Director of VHVUSA, and Jinky Diaz, fundraising chair of VHVUSA and loan consultant at Caliber Home Loans. To the right of the entrance, a lengthy display of silent auction items attracted attention, including several framed autographed records from legendary names like Tony Bennett, The Beach Boys, and the King himself – Elvis Presley. His frame included Elvis in his military uniform. Various autographed football jerseys and other sports items made up the silent auction items. Appreciation awards were given out to sponsors, including Erica Trueba of Luxe Title Services, and the presenting sponsor, Caliber Home Loans, Inc. Helping struggling veterans secure fi-

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nancing is just one of the many important services provided Hank Whittier, Regina Alvers and Jinky Diaz

by VHVUSA. Leaders in our community such as Commissioner Kathy Bryant and School Board member Beth McCall were among the guests, as were VIP at the center table, Judges Landt and McCune, and George Albright III. Speakers included Florida House Representative Stan McClain and Florida State Senator Dennis Baxley. US Army Veteran and VHVUSA operations director, Jose Cevallos gave a moving speech on MIA, POW and Fallen Soldier. Particularly poignant on eve of the anniversary of Pearl Harbor, Dec 7th. Several speakers mentioned Chris and Rev. Morris Ritter President George H. Bush, who had passed away only days before. Jinky Diaz summed it up best by saying, “We are gathered here tonight to honor those who have given their lives, and those who currently serve, because they keep our nation safe. They make sure we have a present, and a future.” It was an evening mixed between dignified honor and rockin’ good fun. In addition to Raisch’s musical performances, DJ Casey played classic rock hits from the 1950’s. Veterans Helping Veterans USA, Inc. assists veterans and their families who are in need of social services and information to improve their lives and to assist them in maintaining their independence.

To learn more contact VHVUSA at 352-4332320 or vetshelpingvets@vhvusa.org. Visit their website at www.vhvusa.org.

Luke and Joy Emerson

n

Gemini

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Salon

Thursday, Oct 11, 2018

At The Southeastern Livestock Pavilion 2232 NE Jacksonville Rd Ocala, Fl 34479 Kathy Bryant and Chad House

3415 E Silver Springs Blvd www.geminisalondayspa.com 352 • 622 • 6425

Lina Kahn and David Leh Gemini_0816.indd 1

Happy Hour starts at 5 pm open Bar

Ocala: 351-CUSA The Villages: 259-BACK

6/27/17 7:04 PM

End Headaches NOW!

Daniel Rivera and Sarah Overfelt

Special Guest Performance by: Keri Sheffield Ms. Rodeo America

FREE HEALTH WORKSHOP 7668 SW 60th Avenue, Suite 500 Headaches Ocala, FL 34476 (on Airport Road) September 26th @ 6:30 PM at Mimi’s Cafe WWW.THEOCALACHIROPRACTOR.COM

Missy and Dan Martone

Boot Scootin’ music Line Dancing Silent Auction

Rick and Judy Dunn Rick and Aleyda Hurley

Tickets just $50 buckeroos call (352) 291-5143 to buy or visit hospiceofmarion.com

BBQ & Fixins by 4Rivers BBQ

of Marion County Feel better. Live better.

Joyce and John Rose

Benefitting Hospice of Marion County Ocala’s Hometown Hospice

Samantha and Jason Vickness

BE SURE TO like us on facebook!

FB_1217_1/2th.indd 1

11/28/17 2:53 PM

DEC. 2018 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

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January 2019

PLAY

CALEND R

BY ANDREA DAVIS

CASH FLOW GAME DAY

people trying to manage their money better. Come play CASHFLOW 101 with friends or a group in this live action game that teaches people how to manage money along with all the technical jargon that follows it. Location in Ocala will be provided upon registration. 3-5 PM. Tickets $5. For more information visit: eventbrite.com/e/cash-flowgame-day-tickets-50345357319

THE MUSEUM AND ME (FOR AGES 2-5)

Jan 8th:

Hosted by the Appleton Museum of Art, this event introduces young children to the museum and art. Each session will allow children to examine works of art before participating in an activity where they create their own. Children must have an adult with them at all times. 10:30 AM. This event is free for children with the price of regular admission of an adult. For more information visit facebook. com/events/1589259078048306 or contact Hollis Mutch at 352.291.4455 ext 1613

HITS OF THE 70’S WITH ANGIE ROSE AND SEAN

Jan 10th: Takes place

at the New Covenant United Methodist Church in Summerfield. This event is a live energetic concert that brings people down memory lane.

This event is also an annual fundraiser Backpack for Kids. 7-8:30 PM Tickets $20-25. 3470 Woodridge Drive, The Villages, FL. For more information visit: eventbrite.com/e/ hits-of-the-70s-with-angie-rosesean-tickets-53061696964

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MUSICAL PERFORMANCE BY INDIE ROCK BAND: KINDO

Jan 11th: The City of

Ocala will host the 2019 Art Park Series at Tuscawilla Park, 213 NE 5th Street. For the month of January, Kindo will be performing from 6-9 PM. Their sound can be refined like contemporary jazz, can be poppin like pop or rocking like rock. Not something to miss. Tickets are $5 a person. For more information visit: thereignofkindo.com or call 352.629.2489

TOUR AND TASTING (FOR THOSE 21 AND OLDER)

Jan 12th:

Visit the Ocala Airport Industrial Park at 11 AM for a short tour of the distillery and a free sampling of three different kinds of Rum. Purchases can be made after the tour for those that want to take a souvenir home. 3458 SW 74th Ave #3, Ocala. For more information visit facebook.com/ events/1668809909881095 or call 352.291.0585

HEALTHCARE NETWORKING MIXER

Jan 18th:

Takes place at the Hilton in Ocala and gives all participates an opportunity to start 2019 off on the right foot. Select companies will be spotlighted and will give participants a chance to

meet healthcare providers along with discovering benefits they wouldn’t otherwise. There will even be a raffle with the chance of a laptop give-a-way. The Hilton can be located at 3600 SW 36th Ave. Ocala, and the mixer will take place 6-8:30 PM. For more information visit: lmshealthpro.com

those of all ages who are challenged by physical, mental or emotional disabilities. There will be food trucks on site along with judging from special guests. Tickets $25. Circle Square Cultural Center, 8395 SW 80th Street, Ocala. Noon-7 PM. For more information visit: dancedancedance.biz/ minimatch or call 352.266.0015

SNEAKERS AND S’MORES 5K

MOOT THOMAS GOLF SCRAMBLE

Take place in this 5k by walking or running or even take time to stroll and bring the kids to meet Marshmallow Man. This event will take place at the Country Club of Ocala, 6823 SE 12th Circle, Ocala. All proceeds go towards supporting Take Stock in Children Scholarship Program which offers over 850 Marion County Children a chance at a life-changing scholarship. 7-10 AM. Tickets start at $20. For more information visit: eventbrite. com/e/sneakers-smores-5krunwalk-kids-dash-registration-52724086161

A golfing tournament to help benefit the Take Stock in Children Scholarship Program for local at-risk youth. This event is divided into two teams. A morning scramble for the Marion County Public School Teams which will take place on the green from 8 AM to noon, and the afternoon scramble for the Business and Community Teams from 1-5 PM. Lunch will be provided for both sets of scramble teams. Tickets are $100 per player or $400 per team of four. Country Club of Ocala, 6823 SE 12th Circle, Ocala. For more information visit: eventbrite.com/e/ moot-thomas-golf-scramble-fortake-stock-in-children-classic2019-registration-52710183578

Jan 19th:

Jan 21st:

ROYAL’S ANNUAL MLK MARCH AND BANQUET

Jan 21st:

FLORIDA FUN MINI-MATCH

Jan 20th:

A dance competition in which one can compete or watch. Dancers of all ages and classes will participate in a friendly competition for a chance to win scholarships, awards and more.

This competition will benefit the Marion Therapeutic Riding Association, a premier accredited therapeutic horseback riding organization for

Two events combined into one. There will be a march starting at 10 AM in Royal Park, 9569 County Rd 235 in Wildwood where participants will come together on a one mile walk around the park.

At 5 PM there will be a banquet dinner at the community center in Royal Park where a guest speaker will be reading a segment of words written by Dr. King. The dinner is free, but a donation is requested. For more information or tickets please visit eventbrite. com/e/royals-annual-mlk-banquet-tickets-49193636491 or call 352.748.0260.

KINDO photo courtesy of the City of Ocala, Cultural Arts

Jan 5th: For adults or

work

INSIDE:

Train to Succeed p54 The number one needed job right now in Marion County are truck drivers. They are needed in warehouses and distribution centers all over the six-county region. Also in demand? Masons, carpenters, AC/HD State of the City p56

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repairmen, and plumbers. Marion Technical College now offers apprenticeship programs to help the local labor force become masters at their trade.

State of the County p58

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Medical Journal p60

JAN. 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

53

WORK

JOB

on the

Train for

Success There is a strong need for a skilled labor force in Ocala/Marion County.

Here are some of the latest training initiatives offered to employers and those seeking masonry work and CDL licensing.

BY JOHN SOTOMAYOR

T

he College of Central Florida is now offering noncredit training to business, industry, nonprofits and government organizations. CF Corporate College helps companies identify workforce training gaps, design customized training programs to address specific employee needs, and increase the skills employees need to advance within their organizations. Training is facilitated by highly trained faculty and experienced instructors, and takes place at your site, at the college or other location. Online courses are also available. “What does your business need to be successful?” asks Loren Carr, director of Corporate College. “We want to help.” To learn more, visit CF.edu/CorporateCollege or call 352-873-5855.

MASONRY PROGRAM AT MARION TECHNICAL COLLEGE

According to Mike Kelly, Principal for Marion Technical College, the Masonry Program is new and will begin after the first of the year. It is an apprenticeship program where students who have jobs in the masonry industry and has a sponsoring

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employer, can take classes at MTC nights and weekends. The goal is to complete the coursework to become a master masonry employee. They can gain their certification for higher paying jobs. The next goal for MTC would be to get a carpentry program started, along with other trades such as AC/HD and plumbing. They began with an electrical apprenticeship program before adding masonry.

CDL PROGRAM AT MARION TECHNICAL COLLEGE

The number one needed job right now in Marion County are truck drivers, according to Mike Kelly, Principal for Marion Technical College. They are needed in warehouses and distribution centers, like Fed Ex, AutoMart, Chewey.com, and Kmart. The need a CDL license to drive

those trucks. Marion Technical College started an eight-week CDL training program in the fall of 2018. The second class of students will begin in January. Plans are under way to build a facility behind Booster Stadium to better serve these needs.

CF Corporate College helps companies identify workforce training gaps, design customized training programs to address specific employee needs, and increase the skills employees need to advance within their organizations.

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Thursday, Oct 11, 2018

At The Southeastern Livestock Pavilion 2232 NE Jacksonville Rd Ocala, Fl 34479

Happy Hour starts at 5 pm openE. BarSilver Springs Blvd.

1713 3 5 2

Ste#4, Ocala, FL 34470

414-4545

Contact We are located76a

Special Guest Performance by: Keri Sheffield Ms. Rodeo America

O For further inform

Boot Scootin’ music Line Dancing Silent Auction

S ’ A L A OC Cigars Hookahs TJuice S E G Glass Pipes Vape R A Pipes CTVaporizers N LWater O I SELE

Ocala’s Largest Selection CBD Kratom novelties

3131 SW College RD 352.547.8280 Follow us!!! @SMOCALA_SMOKE_AND_VAPE

KRATOM CBD CIGARS & Fixins by Tickets just $50 buckeroos GLASSBBQ PIPES call (352) 291-5143 WATER to buy or 4Rivers BBQ PIPES visit hospiceofmarion.com HOOKAHS VAPE JUICE of Marion County VAPORIZERS Feel better. Live better.

3131 SW COLLEGE ROAD UNIT 403

Benefitting Hospice of Marion County OCALA, FLORIDA, FL 34474 Ocala’s Hometown Hospice

352-547-8280

FB_12

JAN. 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

55

WORK

state of the

CITY

Space Invaders

Invasive species can dominate the natural space inhabited by indigenous species due to lack lack of predators and other balances set by natural selection. The Discovery Center offers a brand-new family-friendly, interactive exhibit that educates as well as entertains guests on the effects on the Florida ecosystem.

PROVIDED BY THE CITY OF OCALA

W

ith each new year comes a time for fresh starts, exciting changes and new innovations. The Discovery Center is kicking off 2019 with a brand-new exhibit, Eco Invaders, which opens to the public Sat-

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urday, Jan. 12. This exhibit will be on display through Saturday, March 23.

Eco Invaders is a family-friendly, interactive exhibit, educating guests on invasive species and the impact they have on Florida’s ecosystems. Guests are invited to become “Eco Detectives” as they join the hunt for fugitive plants and animals throughout the exhibit. Guests will also go fishing for reef destroying lionfish, hunt for cane toads in the blacklight room, and search for bugs and snails in the invasive plant crop maze.

Live animals, including an Argentine Tegu, Rainbow Boa Constrictor and more, are also on display at this exhibit.

“Here at the Discovery Center, we continue to challenge our guests with new and innovative exhibits that further their understanding of math and science,” said Laura Walker, Cultural Arts and Sciences Division Head, City of Ocala Recreation and Parks Department. “We are excited to begin 2019

Photos courtesy of the City of Ocala

Guests are invited to become “Eco Detectives” as they join the hunt for fugitive plants and animals throughout the exhibit.

with our brand-new exhibit, Eco Invaders.

Whether you’re looking for a weekend activity that’s fun for the whole family, an exciting afternoon date, or a fun field trip opportunity this spring, this exhibit is the perfect solution! It’s fun and interactive for both the young and young at heart. Come check it out!”

A special grand opening event will be held Saturday, Jan. 12 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

This event will feature live reptile encounters, refreshments and more. General admission to this special event is $6.50 per person or $22 for a family of four.

Join us for another special event, Reptile Romance Date Night, Saturday, Feb. 2

from 6 to 9 p.m. During this event, guests will enjoy light refreshments, adult beverages, guided exhibit tours, live reptile encounters, a planetarium show and more. Tickets are available for $15 per person or $25 per couple. This special event is for adults ages 18 and over.

Advance registration is required. To register, visit www.mydiscoverycenter.org.

The Discovery Center is open Tuesdays through Fridays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

General admission to the Discovery Center is $6.50 per person or $22 for a family of four. Yearly memberships are also available for individuals and families. To learn more about memberships, group rates or field trip availability, please call 352-401-3900.

FOR MORE INFORMATION about the Discovery Center or the Eco Invaders exhibit, please call at 352-401-3900 or visit www.mydiscoverycenter.org.

Follow the Discovery Center on social media Facebook - @discoverycenterocala Twitter - @discoveryocala Instagram - @discoverycenterocala

JAN. 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

57

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state of the

COUNTY

New Year, New Career PROVIDED BY MARION COUNTY

W

ith approximately 30 job openings to choose from, endless internship opportunities and dozens of worksites across the county, your next career move is around the corner.

We offer fantastic benefits including competitively priced dental, health and vision insurance. The county also provides life insurance for full-time employees and contributes generously to their Florida Retirement System plans.

“People come here and stay here because it’s a great place to work,” said Robyne Fraize, Human Resources Manager with Marion County. “We have a lot of people that stay here for life and right now a lot of employees are retiring so upward mobility and opportunities are opening up.”

Longevity, security and chances to grow within your profession; what more could you ask for?

Well, we’ll tell you.

Some employers don’t understand the

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concept of a work/life balance. Here at Marion County, most of our first-year, full-time employees enjoy 9 paid holidays, 96 hours of paid vacation time and 104 hours of paid sick leave. Additionally, they earn an annual personal day with the county.

Use that time off to relax and enjoy Marion’s wonderful centrally located amenities, including its world-renowned artesian springs, intricate bike trails and peaceful camp sites.

Fulltime employees can also use their downtime to hit the books using an annual education grant of $700.

Moreover, Marion County government offers career enhancing courses focused on customer service, emotional intelligence and job performance.

Other employee benefits consist of discounts at select retailers and restaurants in your neighborhood.

We believe our dedicated employees deserve these benefits because of the services they provide the community on a daily basis.

Y

Marion County Human Resources department

Here at Marion County, most of our first-year, full-time employees enjoy 9 paid holidays, 96 hours of paid vacation time and 104 hours of paid sick leave.

“You get to make a difference in your own community,” said Bobbi Perez, Talent Manager with Marion County. “We have entire positions dedicated to community outreach.”

Available positions include Transportation Planner and Engineering Project Manager as well as a variety of other rewarding opportunities within departments like Building Safety, Community Services and Veterans Services.

“We have a great team,” said Amanda Tart, Human Resources Director with Marion County. “The New Year is a wonderful time to start pursuing a fresh, rewarding career and there’s something here for everyone.”

Applying with us is easy, and our team at HR have some advice.

“Read the job description thoroughly,” said Fraize. “…and identify each area of knowledge, skill and ability you have. Once you do that, ensure that you add them to your application.These steps may help shed light on skills that matter most to hiring managers like me.”

Strengthen the backbone of your community by joining us today.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, contact Marion County Human Resources at 352-4382345 or humanresources@ marioncountyfl.org.

JAN. 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

59

WORK

medical journal

Can You Hear Me Now? Made for Android hearing aids are new for 2019 | BY: RICK SAVAGE

echnology is always improving in all facets of life and hearing aid devices are no exception. An advancement in technology in 2019 that can benefit many who have hearing loss is Google providing native support for Bluetooth hearing aids in the Android OS. Bluetooth enabled hearing aids is not new, Apple has already had them, marketed as “Made for iPhone”, for several years now. The benefit with Google joining the bandwagon is that 85 percent of the world’s market share of smartphones uses the Android OS.

T

WHAT CAN BE DONE IN THE PREVENTION, TESTING, AND PROBLEM SOLVING OF HEARING LOSS.

HOW DOES IT WORK?

PREVENTION

Hearing aids are already wireless in that they can communicate between the left and the right ear pieces. Bluetooth support allows the hearing aids to communicate with external devices such as a smartphone or tablet.

An in-direct connection requires a streamer device between the hearing aids and the audio device. A direct connection communicates seamlessly without the need for a streamer device in the middle. Both Made for iPhone and Made for Android devices are direct connection.

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| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | JAN. 2019

For those with healthy hearing it is a gift that sometimes many takes for granted. There are several things we can do to protect our hearing to prevent hearing loss in the future. Ninety percent of cases are the result of sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL), which is damage to the inner ear. This is primarily caused by old age; however, the second largest cause is noise induced hearing loss (NIHL).

According to the National Institute on Deafness and other Communication Disorders (NIDCD) hearing damage can occur from loud noises over 85 decibels. These sounds can occur over a period of time or just one time. Examples of sounds that are over 85 decibels include: • Motorcycles 95 decibels • An MP3 player at maximum volume 105 decibels • Siren 120 decibels • Firecrackers and guns 150 decibels If your work, or recreational activities, involve exposure to loud noises consider purchasing hearing protection. Big box

stores like Home Depot or Lowes always sell hearing protection. For those that want more specialized options you can have custom earmolds or earplugs made for you that will give you maximum protection.

One such store is the Beneficial Hearing Aid Store located in Ocala. They can make a custom earmold—the earmold fits in the outer ear called the “concha bowl.”

Full-shell covers both the upper and lower concha and half-shell covers the lower concha. They can also make custom earplugs— the earplug sits in the ear canal. As per their website, they have custom products that help swimmers, hunters, construction workers, and musicians. They also have products for those that: wear earbuds to listen to music, visit concerts or use them for motorsports.

TESTING

If you feel that you suffer from symptoms of hearing loss there are free options to get a diagnostic done. Symptoms of hearing loss or damage include: ringing in the ears, difficulty hearing voices, raising the volume on televisions and radios. Symptoms that a child might have hearing loss is ignoring verbal communication or not responding to noises.

Some websites offer free hearing tests

FLORIDA STATE AND MARION COUNTY RESOURCES: •

The Florida Guide and Resource for The Deaf, Hard of Hearing, Deaf/Blind resource-guide-for-floridians1.pdf • www.floridahealth.gov/provider-and-partnerresources/fccdhh/ • Marion County’s Deaf and Hard of Hearing Program https://www.marionschools.net/Page/56134

Did you know? IN THE U.S.: such as Hearing and Balance Solutions located in Ocala. The online address is www. hearingbalance.net.

A free resource that is offered at a physical location is Lucid Hearing. They offer free hearing tests throughout Central Florida via Sam’s Club Stores. There is one off of SW College Road in Ocala.

IF YOU ALREADY SUFFER HEARING LOSS

For those that already suffer from some level of hearing loss modern technology is available to make life more productive and improve communication.

Tools that are available include: hearing aids, smartphone apps, amplified telephones, hearing dogs, closed and open captioning, FM systems and certified sign language interpreters.

The College of Central Florida in Ocala off of SW College Rd offers the “Introduction to American Sign Language” courses I and II. Throughout your life it is important to safeguard yourself. Use common sense and protect your hearing around loud noises. If you have symptoms of hearing loss seek help from a medical professional. Some problems such as Conductive hearing loss are treatable with medicine or surgery.

• • • • •

2-3 of every 1,000 infants are born deaf or hard of hearing.

Hearing loss is the #1 reported injury among Military Veterans.

Hearing loss is the 3rd most common disability among seniors.

Only 1 out of 5 people who could benefit from a hearing aid actually wears one.

You or your child might have a hearing loss and not even know it.

Source: celebrate-communication-brochure.pdf/www.floridahealth.gov

3 Types Of Hearing Loss: Conductive hearing loss • Sound cannot get past the outer or middle ear.

• Causes include: ear infection, fluid in the middle ear, deformity—outer ear or middle ear, benign tumors, earwax, a hole in the eardrum.

• Can be treated with medicine or surgery.

Sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) • Damage to the inner ear.

• 90 percent of reported hearing loss.

• Most common is age related.

• Second most common is noise induced hearing loss (NIHL).

• Causes include: loud noises, age, illness, genetics, deformity—inner ear.

• Most common cause of permanent hearing loss.

• Often surgery or medicine cannot treat.

• Hearing aids may improve hearing.

Mixed hearing loss • A problem with both the outer/middle ear and the inner ear.

• Both conductive and SNHL hearing loss occur together.

• Example, fluid in the middle ear and you work around loud noises.

American Speech Language Association/https://www.asha.org/public/hearing/Types-of-Hearing-Loss/

JAN. 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

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Equine Walk of Fame p64 Coming soon to a street on the downtown square near you — an Equine Walk of Fame, similar to the one honoring cinema in front of the Historic Marion Theater. An Equine

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JAN. 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

63

LIVE

everything equine

Bits

Horse

Round up of new equine happenings in 2019 expected to leave a lasting horseshoe print in Ocala/Marion County.

BY LOUISA BARTON

NEW INITIATIVE

One of the newer initiatives at the Ocala, Marion County Chamber and Economic Partnership (CEP) is the Equine Engagement Committee, presented by New Millennium Realty. This initiative brings the true importance of the 2.6 billion economic impact of the horse industry to our nearly 1,500 partners at the CEP, it also helps to encourage the integration of the non-horse world with the horse world, engaging in regular meetings with news and updates and plenty of Equine 101s at local farms and Ocala Breeders Sales.

This is all designed to build awareness in our community of the horse industryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s integral role here in Marion County.

NEW EQUINE WALK OF FAME

I have had the pleasure of meeting with Ocala City Manager, John Zobler several times to discuss the importance of the horse industry and bringing the horse world and our downtown together with a variety of ideas to encourage that. One of those, of course, was our Ocala Main Street Parade of Nations and Breeds held on the downtown square for the past two years, which was a hugely successful event. Moving forward, we hope to add horseshoes and farm plaques in two of our main sidewalks, near restaurants to share our many equine, equestrian and farm claims

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to fame in Ocala, Marion County. This will provide a way to permanently showcase the many infamous horses and farms in our community-close to some of the best restaurants in our idyllic downtown square. At the next opportunity to replace sidewalks, this is top on our priority list.

PARADE OF NATIONS AND BREEDS

The Parade of Nations and Breeds on the downtown Square has continued to grow from its inauguration in 2017. The 2018 Parade featured the world-renowned Budweiser Clydesdales and drew a tremendous crowd, 8 or 9 deep all along the downtown square. The crowds were able to see and hear about over half of the 61 known breeds of horses that call Marion County home. In 2019, due to the Nations Cup relocation to Palm Beach Masters, the Parade will be held on March 7 at 5pm, in conjunction with the Live Oak International event. The Parade Grand Marshal will be legendary four-inhand driver Chester Weber. All visiting and local equestrians who are competing at HITS and at Live Oak, in both driving and in the Grand Prix show jumping, will be invited to walk in the Parade that evening. This event will celebrate equestrians and horses

alike and showcase why we are indeed, the Horse Capital of the World’.

WORLD EQUESTRIAN CENTER

With World Equestrian Center (WEC) under construction, Ocala, Marion County is fast becoming THE place to be for all equestrians, from every discipline, even in the summertime. WEC will offer a variety of indoor arenas and a world class stadium, hundreds of stalls and a beautiful hotel.

There will be restaurants, retail and more. All of this will be climate controlled, making the usually humid summer months, which are not normally not quite so attractive to equestrians for competing, much more appealing. Equestrians from all over the world have already heard about what is to come in Ocala for horse lovers and I believe we will see a very deliberate move by more horse riders to be here yearround, rather than only in the Winter months.

We should also see many more diverse events and shows, highlighting all disciplines and many different breeds at WEC.

World Equestrian Center will offer a variety of indoor arenas and a world class stadium, hundreds of stalls and a beautiful hotel. There will be restaurants, retail and more.

THE HORSE TALK SHOW

The Horse Talk Show, a radio talk show presented by Peterson and Smith Equine Hospital and Palm Chevrolet, has been ‘edutaining’ listeners on all things equine for 5 years on Florida SportsTalk in Ocala. In the last two years, the show added the additional opportunity to listen and/or watch on the Horse Talk Show’s Facebook page. That has become more of a television style broadcast and has grown in popularity with the addition of Digital Savvy as a partner. The really exciting news for 2019, is the show will now be aired on Saturday morning at 7am on 97.3 the Sky. This will increase the listening audience considerably and will be a great next step towards hopeful syndication in the future to other radio stations outside this area. Make sure you tune in and listen

and “happy horsing around until next time!”

As Ocala is rapidly growing and becoming an even more popular place to live, work and play, new businesses are encouraged to choose Ocala, for its low cost of living and great quality of life. Also, Ocala does sit logistically in a very favorable position.

Remember, not everyone involved in horses makes a living from owning them. Many just own horses for the pleasure they derive from

it and all horse owners know that is not an inexpensive hobby. In order to offer the best in employment opportunities with above average salaries, we need to grow our existing businesses and encourage new businesses to locate here. Fortunately, we have tremendous leadership in our community that understand how to manage this growth responsibly. Deliberate planning and development are key to success in the growth of our area. The horse industry is 17 percent of our total economy here, but there remains another 83 percent.

If we want high paying jobs and lots of opportunities, we need businesses to choose this area, but we also need to preserve our farms and agricultural areas. It is all about balance and good planning, so that Ocala-Marion County, the Horse Capital of the World, will continue to grow, flourish and prosper in both the equine world and beyond.

JAN. 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

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arts & culture

LIVE

America’s Everglades:

New Starts

Get excited. 2019 promises to raise the bar yet again for the arts in Ocala. Here are a few teasers to whet your appetite for what's coming.

Through the Lens of Clyde Butcher FEBRUARY 2-MAY 26 These monumental photographs celebrate the beauty of the American Everglades. Their scale, extraordinary clarity and tonal range set them apart as exceptional works of art, earning him recognition as the foremost landscape photographer in America today. These powerful black and white images are portraits of the eternal bond between man and nature that is the soul of the Everglades. From the deepest cypress strands of the sawgrass prairies, coastal waters and languid estuaries, to pinpoint stilllives of rare species, Butcher reveals its ecosystems in magnificent detail. He makes an unquestionable case for why we should care about its future. www.appletonmuseum.org

The Reilly presents an evening with 10,000 Maniacs and the Spin Doctors! One night with two incredible classic 90's bands that have 6 multi-platinum albums between them. This is the first of a new series, our "Signature Event" series, that will bring the very best of entertainment to the heart of downtown Ocala - events you won't see anywhere else, but at the Reilly. Friday March 8, 2019 @ 7:30PM. Tickets on sale now www.ReillyArtsCenter.com

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Shell Key # 1, 2001, Silver Gelatin Print, 40 x 64 in., Courtesy of the artist.

I love Ocala for the small city size and the bigger city cultural environment and artists’ opportunities.

From the Appleton, Brick City, the Civic Theater, the Reilly Center, Horse Fever, FAFO, The Sculpture Park, the list goes on and on, and all either free or affordable. I don’t have to go out of town to get my art fix. I am so glad Ocala government and citizens are willing to spend money on and support with their attendance, the wonderful things that Ocala has to offer. It gets better every year!

—KELLI MONEY HUFF ARTIST

“I’m very excited to see the appreciation and progress of the arts throughout so many facets of our community.”

—LAURIE ZINK

#TinyDoorsOcala "My project #TinyDoorsOcala debuted it’s first installation at MCA’s Brick City Center for the Arts at December’s Art Walk. Subsequent Tiny Doors will be revealed downtown at each upcoming Art Walk. My hope is to bring a little bit of whimsy, imagination, conversation and magic to Ocala…one tiny door at a time."

— DIANE CAHAL

—MAGGIE WEAKLEY, ARTIST AND FINE ARTS FOR OCALA (FAFO) ADMINISTRATIVE COORDINATOR

Uncovering Nature’s Great Mystery of Art, Mathematics & Science with SCOTT OLSEN, Ph.D.,

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Horse of a Different Color

Keep your eyes out for a new painted horse coming in February to celebrate the 10 year anniversary of the twinning of Newbridge, Ireland and Ocala, Florida.

Artletic Apparel has a line of men’s and women’s cycling and triathlon apparel. Founded by an artist and athlete that has been an accomplished cyclist for 35 years and a graduate of Ringling College of Art and Design, all of their apparel is designed for fit with fabrics and graphics that give each athlete performance and style. They also do many custom kits for teams, events, shops and individuals. www.ArtleticApparel.com

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“There is a new enthusiasm, energy, synergy in Ocala where people have woken up and have seen the importance to support the Arts. It is an exciting time to live here. I am proud to be a part of it and to help in any possible way I can to promote and support all “The Arts” in our community.

I feel we need art in our lives, in one form or another, it is as essential as food because it feeds our spirits and imaginations.”

The Ocala Civic Theatre

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February 1-3 at the CCF Performing Arts Center. Check Eventbrite for tickets.

The City of Ocala presents After Dark in the Park Movie Series featuring Basquiat on Friday, May 10th, from 6 - 9 p.m. as part of the 2019 Tuscawilla Art Park Series taking place in downtown Ocala.

Admission is FREE.

Mary Verrandeaux, Founder

JAN. 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

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Reflux (also called Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, or GERD) is caused by a weak muscle in your esophagus called the lower esophageal sphincter (LES)that allows acid and bile to flow back from the stomach into the esophagus, causing damage to the lining of the esophagus, throat and lungs.

1 in 5 patients in the United States suffer from GERD and 20 million Americans are taking acid blocking medications. Around 40% of the patients on medications continue to have symptoms and 15% of those patients will develop Barrett’s esophagus, a premalignant condition that can lead to esophageal cancer. The annual costs associated with GERD are 6 billion dollars per year.

Symptoms associated with GERD include heartburn, regurgitation, difficulty swallowing, hoarseness, dental erosions, asthma, chest pain, shortness of breath.

Patient’s with reflux disease often suffer poor quality of sleep, reduced work productivity dietary, compromises to avoid symptoms and lifelong dependence on medications.

Although lifestyle modifications and acid blocking medications are able to control the symptoms at times, studies show that 40% of those patients will continue to have symptoms. There is now growing concern regarding the association of acid blocking medications with osteoporosis, dementia, chronic kidney disease and myocardial infarctions.

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LIVE

health & fitness

CrossFit vs Beachbody’s P90X I t’s January and many people will start a new year’s resolution to improve their physical fitness. This year I thought about opening up a debate on a timeless question that I am sure has been argued about in coffee shops, juice bars, internet chat rooms and across the dinner table. It’s similar to asking who is a better athlete: Michael Phelps swimming or Usain Bolt running. The question I want to put up for debate is—what is better: CrossFit or P90X? The fundamentals behind the two programs are nothing new, they are actually hundreds of years old. The evolvement of the two is similar to how modern Mixed Martial Arts took ancient grappling and striking techniques and created a new competitive sports package called MMA. Both CrossFit and P90X take the concepts of taking different workouts and combining them into high intensity circuit training drills. Both CrossFit and P90X are first and foremost businesses, so their differences are mainly in the look and feel of the physical fitness routines and in the distribution of the end product. Just in case you are not fa-

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miliar with the two programs I will indulge in some random history.

CROSSFIT HISTORY The current CrossFit, Inc. was founded in 2000 by Greg Glassman and Lauren Jenai. The CrossFit program is the brainchild of Greg Glassman who was a personal trainer during the 1970’s. Greg Glassman got his biggest boost in 1995 when the Santa Cruz, Ca. Police Department hired him as their head trainer to improve physical fitness. He also started his first CrossFit gym in Santa Cruz in 1995.

As Greg Glassman progressed as a personal trainer he found he could do more by training multiple clients at a time and they bonded by the camaraderie. His routine was to mix multiple disciplines using functional exercises to improve overall general preparedness. His cult like following led to a

BY RICK SAVAGE

system of affiliated gyms called “boxes.”

The CrossFit games has been part of the culture since 2007. Winners are called “The Fittest on Earth”.

P90X HISTORY P90X is owned by Beachbody, LLC which was co-founded by CEO Carl Daikeler, and President Jon Congdon in 1998. Fresh off of his success with “8 minute abs” Carl Daikeler secured $500,000 from 20 angel investors to start a new business without even having a product yet. He commissioned celebrity personal trainer Tony Horton to create what would become P90X. It was the idea, “build it and they will come.” P90X is an intense at home DVD workout routine that will whip one into shape in 90 days.

Team Beachbody—direct sales network marketing—was launched in 2007 to distribute the products. In 2015 Beachbody On De-

Former Speaker of the House Paul Ryan gave P90X a boost when he credited the workout for his fitness while Mitt Romney’s running mate in 2012.

mand went live which offers their entire DVD catalog online as a streaming service. Their latest products include nutrition and gear.

Tale of the Tape

CROSSFIT WHAT IS IT AND WHY DO I WANT IT? CrossFit takes concepts that have been around for a long time and repackages it in a new and exciting lifestyle. Remember high school physics class and equations like: force = mass x acceleration (measured in Newtons); and work = force x distance (measured in Joules). Those are some of the quantifiable metrics. CrossFit focuses on what they call the core movements of life by training in functional exercises such as gymnastics, rowing, weightlifting, running, etc. Training is usually done as groups in gyms called “boxes”. They differentiate themselves from what some people call “globo gyms”. Urban dictionary defines a globo gym as a large franchise that focuses more on comfortable amenities than on performance results.

NOW THAT I WANT IT, HOW DO I GET IT? The best place to start to look is CrossFit’s website crossfit.com. The CrossFit community has over 13,000 affliliates worldwide. A list of “boxes” in Ocala is provided below.

UNOFFICIAL ENDORSEMENT Actor Chris Hemsworth used a CrossFit inspired workout to prepare for his role as Thor in the Marvel Cinematic Universe movies.

P90X WHAT IS IT AND WHY DO I WANT IT? The goal of this product is to provide 12 high intensity workout routines in a DVD package that promises to take the average athlete and give them a ripped beachbody in 90 days. No gym or expensive equipment is required, just a 6x6 foot space and access to dumbells/resistance bands, a pull-up bar, and about an hour per day. The 12 exercises are: chest and back; plyometrics; shoulders and arms; yoga X; legs and back; kenpo X; X stretch; core synergistics; chest, shoulders and triceps; back and biceps; cardio X; and ab ripper X. The Beachbody brand has gone on to include numerous other DVD workouts,

nutrition products such as Shakeology, and gear such as the P90X pull-up bar.

NOW THAT I WANT IT, HOW DO I GET IT? Beachbody on Demand is an online distribution service. If you ever used Netflix, Amazon Prime or a gaming service like Steam you have the idea.

UNOFFICIAL ENDORSEMENT Former Speaker of the House Paul Ryan gave P90X a boost when he credited the workout for his fitness while Mitt Romney’s running mate in 2012.

WHERE TO FIND BEACHBODY P90X PRODUCTS/COACHES NEAR OCALA, FL. Beachbody has grown to become primarily an online business, and the workouts are done in the home. P90X products can be purchased directly from www. beachbody.com. Beachbody also sells through Amazon.com. Certain package deals on “Beachbody on Demand” include Team Beachbody coaches that will be assigned to you and are available locally.

Since Beachbody has a direct sales model (multi-level marketing) a Beachbody coach in your area may find you on a social media website or a local hangout.

Actor Chris Hemsworth used a CrossFit inspired workout to prepare for his role as Thor in the Marvel Cinematic Universe movies.

WHERE TO FIND CROSSFIT BOXES NEAR OCALA, FL. CrossFit Iron Legion www.crossfitironlegion.com

SO WHICH ONE IS MIGHTIER? Although both are physical fitness regimens they are still very different. The differences are like asking: would I be cooler being a truck guy or a sports car car guy? The result is really up to the end user and what their particular goals are. Both products have grown to be part of a very large ecosystem that is more than just physical fitness.

The ecosystems include a lifestyle which provides a sense of belonging to something. If you prefer going to a physical gym and the camaraderie of group training then perhaps CrossFit is better for you. If you prefer training in your home and using the internet for training videos then maybe P90X and Beachbody are better. You can always try both and keep the parts that work the best.

Chalk’d Fitness www.chalkdfitness.com CrossFit Pinacle www.crossfitpinacle.com CrossFit Antics www.crossfitantics.com Crossfit Living www.crossfitliving.com CrossFit Zoo www.crossfitzoo.com CrossFit 1088 www.bluewavefitocala.com Zone Health & Fitness CrossFit www.zonehealthandfitness.com

JAN. 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

71

“

LIVE

VOX”

What will be new in 2019 for Ocala/Marion County that you are excited about?

“I live near Ocala International Airport.

I’m excited to see the

new terminal this year.”

~ RYAN LILLY, VICE PRESIDENT OF BUSINESS CREATION, OCALA/MARION COUNTY CHAMBER & ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIP

“For 2019 I look forward to the growth

of our

community, it’s businesses and the continued revitalization of our downtown that help Ocala maintain its charm.” ~ GEORGE MATHIS, FIRST VICE PRESIDENT OF INVESTMENTS MATHIS WEALTH MANAGEMENT AT RAYMOND JAMES

the biggest will be the new 620,000

sq. ft. industrial spec building that Red Rock Developments is building near Chewy. This investment and facility will put our community in an entirely different league when it comes to recruiting and growing businesses.” ~ KEVIN SHEILLEY, PRESIDENT & CEO, OCALA/MARION COUNTY CHAMBER & ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIP

Photo by Tammy the Portrait Artist

“While there are a number of things, probably

“The City of Ocala’s Arts and Cultural 10 Year Master Plan—our community’s ten-year roadmap for making Ocala one of the best cities for the arts! MCA was proud to help fund this exciting strategic plan.” ~ JAYE BAILLIE, APR, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, MARION CULTURAL ALLIANCE AT BRICK CITY CENTER FOR THE ARTS

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