Ocala Magazine February 2021 Issue

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

OCALA MAGAZINE

FEB 2021

Hitting

40

HITS and Ocala Magazine celebrate their 40th years

Just Listed... Homes and Horse Properties Pending

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CELEBRATING OUR 40TH YEAR!

FEBRUARY • 2021 p. 50 — Seasonal Selections: Kale Caesar Salad

FEATURES 14 20 26 32 38 46

HITS Turns 40 40 Years of Ocala Magazine A Little Romance Crape Murder Joe Moseley: Lego Master and STEM Instructor OM Pulse

DEPARTMENTS 10 12

Publisher’s Letter From the Mayor

49 50 54

EAT Seasonal Selections: Cruciferous Vegetables Dining Out

59 PLAY 60 Socially Speaking 62 Anthology: Poetry in Motion 65 EQUINE 66 Everything Equine

Photo by Ralph Demilio

ON THE COVER:

$5.95

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

Jill Henselwood at HITS OCALA MAGAZINE

FEB 2021

Hitting

40

HITS and Ocala Magazine celebrate their 40th years

6

| FEB 2021 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

71 ETC 72 Charity Spotlight:

American Heart Association 76 Health Journal 78 State of the City 80 State of the County 82 Kiwanis Korner 84 Rotary Circle 88 Looking Back

Equestrian Lifestyle Gifts H Decor H Apparel

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Volume 40, Issue 8

FEBRUARY 2021

OM

OCALA’S #1 MOST AWARD-WINNING CITY MAGAZINE

CELEBRATING OUR 40TH YEAR! Philip Glassman, CCIM | Publisher philip@ocalamagazine.com

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

CONTRIBUTORS

EDITORIAL Brad Rogers | Managing Editor brad@ocalamagazine.com

ART Jessi Miller | Creative Director jessi@ocalamagazine.com

Carlton Reese | Senior Writer carlton@ocalamagazine.com

PHOTOGRAPHY

Mayor Kent Guinn | Columnist

Ralph Demilio | Chief Photographer ralph@ocalamagazine.com

R.J. Jenkins | Writer

Alex AuBuchon/Marion County | Writer Louisa Barton | Writer Ashley Dobbs/City of Ocala | Writer

Robin Fannon | Food/Lifestyle Editor Sharon Raye | Copy Editor Leslie J. Wengler | Social Correspondant

ADVISORY Linda Marks | Founder & Advisor

OPERATIONS Randy Woodruff, CPA | CFO randy@ocalamagazine.com Doug Hummel | Director of I.T.

EDITORIAL OR ADVERTISING INQUIRIES 352.622.2995

www.ocalamagazine.com

19 FIVE 20 F E O N I R E WINNR MAGAAZRDS A D I FLO TION AW IA S AS OC

OFFICIAL MEDIA PARTNER HOPS — Historic Ocala Preservation Society MEDIA PARTNER & PRESENTING SPONSOR of the Tailgating Competition at Live Oak International OFFICIAL MEDIA SPONSOR FOR 2020 International Women's Day EXCLUSIVE MEDIA SPONSOR FOR George Albright Annual Golf Tournament OFFICIAL MEDIA SPONSOR FOR FINE ARTS FOR OCALA

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| FEB 2021 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

LETTER

from the publisher

February means love and a positive outlook WITH FEBRUARY UPON US, I think the timing is right that the focus be on all things positive. In the month of Valentine’s Day, love is in the air and it only makes sense that we put the negativity of the past where it belongs . . . in the past.

I know I am committing myself to taking solely a positive outlook on the future, cherishing the loved ones around me without dwelling on those things that might potentially drown my spirits. With this in mind, I always like to ponder our Charity of the Month. For February, we have selected a national charity that does enormous work in research but also makes a profound effect on our community: the American Heart Association.

The AHA’s work in dealing with the COVID crisis is documented within these pages, but I would also like to bring some light as to what we can do locally to foster longer and healthier lives for those around us.

There has probably never been a more appropriate time to convince people how important maintaining a healthy lifestyle is. We should not just accept obesity as a normal part of our culture – COVID-19 certainly does not see it that way as those who are obese are among the most vulnerable to the virus. If now is not the time to commit to a healthy exercise and eating regimen, then there never will be.

Cardiovascular research for much of its history has focused on men, but heart disease and stroke kill women at nearly the same rate. As such, the AHA is stepping up its research into the differences between men and women on this issue and is trying to bring more awareness to the cause. The Go Red for Women campaign is shining a light on this issue with its publicity and fundraising.

Locally, the Go Red for Women Gala has been moved from February to May, but the Wear Red campaign is still a go for Feb. 5. For my part, I will purchase some red attire at goredforwomen.org and help raise funds for this worthy cause. I hope our readers will do the same!

I’m also proud that Ocala Magazine is part of the Horse Fever showcase that benefits the Marion Cultural Alliance. We featured Horse Fever in our January edition, but it is worth mentioning again since the big reveal of the painted horses will take place Feb. 11 and 13.

I know the community is excited to feast its eyes on the latest artistic creations which add to the splendor of this wonderful and dynamic town.

My excitement goes further in that OM has secured its own horse, “Honey Bee,” painted with honey dripping from a honeycomb and looking good enough to eat. After “Honey Bee” does its local circuit it will find a permanent home in front of our office building located on East Fort King Street.

This is the fourth herd of horses in this public art project that is among the reasons Ocala now enjoys the reputation as one with a thriving art community.

On a side note, February is also my birth month and I turn, ahem . . . 50. But that’s American Heart just between you and me.

Association: Kristina Donohue and ‘Til next month, Olana McDonald at last year's Go Red For Women event

PHILIP GLASSMAN, PUBLISHER

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| FEB 2021 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

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MAYOR

from the

Don’t ever let anyone tell you to not take COVID-19 seriously.

BY MAYOR KENT GUINN

T

his advice comes from a recent patient . . . me.

I will tell you my story of contracting this virus and my return to health thanks to help from my colleagues and the wonderful staff at Advent Hospital. Needless to say, the journey was worrisome and no run-of-the-mill sickness.

My first mistake was an extended interview in close quarters. The interviewee had offered to conduct the interview over the phone, but I declined and proceeded to those close quarters anyway. I should have taken him up on his offer as he phoned my office four days later on a Monday with news that he had tested positive and that I should get tested.

The next day, Tuesday, I was able to be tested and the result came up positive, though I had not suffered any dramatic symptoms yet.

A dry cough turned into a heavy, phlegm-filled cough, but I was still feeling okay until about Wednesday when it started coming apart. I had all the symptoms: loss of smell, loss of taste, fever. All the symptoms that are listed, I was having them and they happened daily and some of them by the hour.

To put it mildly, it’s a weird, weird virus.

I went to the doctor that Sunday night and he informed me I was at a critical time. He sent me home with a bunch of medicine – I was taking hydroxychloroquine and all the vitamins. Then Monday night the breathing problems started. I called the fire department for someone to bring me some oxygen – which they did – then chief Shane Alexander called to demand I go to the hospital.

I took his advice and that was the best decision I ever made. Four days later I would be released from the hospital feeling much better.

The key was keeping close tract of my oxygen levels. You want your levels to be at least 90 and when I went to the hospital I was at 88. When I left the hospital I was at 92. I’m told that 87 or 88 is not good and if it gets to 80 you are likely to die.

Advent took great care of me all the while they were administering to 40 other COVID patients on the same floor. I cannot express enough my appreciation to the doctors and nurses that are on the front lines of this thing and administered my recovery.

Perhaps others can learn from my story. For one, do not think you are invincible. This means avoiding situations (such as close quarters with others for longer than 15 minutes) where you think you could be infected.

Be smart. This means live your life but don’t take chances – this stuff is serious. It is up to each individual to take necessary precautions, which means wearing a mask and honoring the wishes of those who request you wear one around them.

Most of all, stay healthy. If you are overweight, then lose weight. Those who are overweight or are diabetic are most vulnerable and must take extra precautions.

We should not let fear dictate our lives, but don’t let foolish recklessness take it from you, either.

Still on the road to full recovery,

Mayor Kent Guinn 12

| FEB 2021 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

FLORIDA THOROUGHBRED CHARITIES & MARION CULTURAL ALLIANCE FUNDRAISER

Generously Donated by

Clockwork Fury

by artist Mark Hershberger Bid on this great ambassador for your farm or business Last hip on the first day of the March sale • In Person/Online bidding available • Available for your inspection

Florida Thoroughbred Charities (FTC) supports TRF’s Second Chance farm, the only program in the nation partnering women inmates and thoroughbreds creating life changing growth. FTC also funds impactful youth education programs.

Marion Cultural Alliance (MCA) provides leadership, funding, and professional development for artists and nonprofit arts organizations with the mission to champion arts, artists, and arts organizations.

For information contact HF 20/20 Co-chair Laurie Zink at

23189

Horse Shows in the Sun Celebrates Their 40th Year

W

hen Meegan Galloway looks back on her years as a competitor and trainer at HITS Florida Winter Circuit horse show, her memories take her to the very beginning, to HITS’s very first show in Ocala.

“Oh my gosh, it was a very small show,” said Galloway, owner/trainer of Eden Farm Hunter-Jumper Show Barn in Ocala. “And now, it’s just huge, with people coming from all over nationally, and now internationally, too. Now, it’s one of the biggest shows in the country.”

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Yes, times have changed for HITS — a lot. This marks the 40th year that HITS, or Horse Shows in the Sun, has called Ocala its winter home. The prestigious equine event is again holding 12 weeks of shows through March. As usual, it will be a spectacular event that attracts tens of thousands of horse competitors and enthusiasts to the community, and that makes it a major economic driver for Ocala/Marion County. (Due to the coronavirus pandemic, no spectators are allowed to attend this year’s HITS.)

HITS founder and CEO Tom Struzzieri’s story is one of vision and doggedness.

Struzzieri was born and raised in New York.

In his youth, he was a competitive rider of hunters and jumpers. But, as he tells it, he realized he would never attain the level of success he sought as a rider. So, at 18, he bought a small farm, Rose View Stables, in Poughkeepsie, New York, where he trained hunter/jumpers. He also produced small, local horse shows, even some multi-day shows.

Struzzieri was ready for a bigger chal-

Photos courtesy of HITS

BY BRAD ROGERS

Jill Henselwood

lenge, and Florida provided him just the opportunity. At 21, he hitchhiked to Florida and ended up in Gainesville. That was where the first edition of HITS was staged. At those early HITS, Struzzieri did everything – drove the tractor to groom the rings, sold tickets, directed parking. After three years, however, he realized moving HITS to Ocala made sense. It was, after all, the Horse Capital of the World.

As Galloway recalled, the first couple HITS Ocala shows were small, held on the old Golden Hills Academy property on U.S. 27. But HITS grew steadily over the years, with Struzzieri ultimately buying the Golden Hills property from the Castro family.

“Mr. and Mrs. Castro were very kind to me,” he said with fondness.

In 2000, Struzzieri was approached by the Roberts family about selling the Golden Hills property. They were developing Golden Ocala and wanted his land, which adjoined theirs, so Struzzieri sold.

He bought the Post Time Farm, further west on U.S. 27, a move that was in keeping with his overall corporate strategy of making HITS a national horse show brand where he either leased or owned show properties nationwide. HITS has shows and facilities in

Due to the coronavirus pandemic, no spectators are allowed to attend this year’s HITS.

not only Ocala but New York, Virginia and Illinois as well.

Today Post Time looks more like a small city than a horse farm. There are dozens of barns with thousands of stalls. There is row after row of RV’s and HITS has even built condominiums on the property. To make it all run — under Struzzieri’s ever-watchful eye — requires hundreds of employees and services that range from on-site eateries and veterinarians to feed suppliers and even a school for children who are either contestants or whose families are involved in HITS. To get an idea of the size of HITS, and its popularity among the hunter/jumper crowd, Struzzieri said this year some 1,800 stalls are rented each week to serve the estimated 1,400-1,500 horses that will step into one of the HITS rings each week. A 2014

economic impact analysis commissioned by HITS found that every horse that showed at HITS resulted in 3.2 people attending the event.

“It (Post Time Farm) has worked out well,” Struzzieri said. “It’s been a good place for business.”

So good, that HITS Ocala this year will award more than $4 million in prizes, including the prestigious Great American $1 million Grand Prix, which takes place on March 28.

As the event has evolved, so has the level of competition. Struzzieri said the level of competitors has steadily risen with the expansion of HITS’s classes and, of course, the prize money.

That has translated nicely into an ongoing economic boon for Ocala/Marion

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | FEB 2021 |

15

“They put Ocala on the map for a lot of the equine community. They bring people to our community that would not otherwise come.”

County. Struzzieri notes that many of his competitors have bought farms and homes here – he estimates about 100 farms. Beyond that, the 2014 economic impact analysis found that HITS is responsible for some $100 million being pumped into the local economy annually — thanks to expenditures on everything from feed and grain to lodging and dining.

Kevin Sheilley, CEO and president of the Ocala/Marion County Chamber and Economic Partnership, called HITS one of the community’s “economic drivers.”

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| FEB 2021 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

“They’re a business that spends money throughout the community,” he said. “And they’re involved with the community.

“As a result, they’re an economic driver – with more than $100 million in economic impact. They put Ocala on the map for a lot of the equine community. They bring people to our community that would not otherwise come.”

Whatever affection the community feels toward HITS, the feeling is mutual for Struzzieri, who calls Ocala “my winter home now.”

“Ocala has been a great partner,” he said. “They’ve embraced us from the very

beginning. They have welcomed my family.

It’s a very special community. I run horses all over the country, and no place compares to Ocala. It’s the Horse Capital of the World, and it proves it. I have a warm place in my heart for Ocala.”

Struzzieri said what makes Ocala extra special is that his HITS clientele feels right at home here, regardless of where they have come from.

“It’s pretty special place for equestrians,” he said. “You can walk into any restaurant wearing boots and breeches and not look out of place. Horse people are everywhere and so our people fit right in.”

And while the Ocala business community and Struzzieri have mutual admiration for one another, the HITS founder’s accomplishments have not gone unnoticed by the broader national equine industry. In 2012, he received the John W. Galbreath Award for Outstanding Entrepreneurship in the Equine Industry from the University of Louisville’s Equine Industry Program.

An Olympian and her love affair with HITS Jill Henselwood, an icon of equestrian show jumping, has been competing at HITS Horse Shows across America for over two decades. “Each year we look forward to coming to all of Tom Struzzieri’s horse shows as he continues to make upgrades,” said Henselwood. “This year at HITS Ocala there is new footing in the Stadium Ring and WarmUp Area that offers cushion and holds you up. You can go as fast as you want and not have to worry. I think it’s some of the best footing in North America.”

The annual award recognizes an outstanding member of the equine community for exceptional achievements in business. Struzzieri was the first in the hunter/jumper discipline to receive the Galbreath Award.

Of course, part of what has made Ocala such a successful location for HITS is its Florida weather. As Galloway noted, in the winter, the horse community has few destinations where its participants can go an find weather that is accommodating. So, in Galloway’s words, “they all come to Florida” – and Ocala.

“Part of what makes our equine industry here unique is having events like HITS,” Sheilley said.

So, after four decades of continuous growth and evolution, what does the next 10 years hold for Struzzieri and HITS? “We will continue to evolve,” Struzzieri said. “Obviously it has changed every couple of years, and that’s what we will continue to do.”

Asked about what impact the new World Equestrian Center might have on

“Horse people are everywhere and so our people fit right in.”

HITS, he noted that HITS is sanctioned by the United States Equestrian Federation, which WEC is not. Moreover, he said putting on horse shows is what he does — and has been doing for a long time — and he will continue doing it.

“This is what I do for a living,” Struzzieri said. “I have hundreds of people who work for me and thousands of people around the country who depend on me. So, we’re going to keep doing what we do.”

“HITS is going to keep growing. … I’ve seen parents ride. I’ve seen their children ride. In many ways, we’re a big family.”

In 1992, Henselwood was named the Canadian Equestrian Team’s Rookie of the Year and has since competed as a member of the Canadian team who won silver in team jumping at the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing. Along with International success, Henselwood has been successful at each of the HITS venues with multiple top placings in Grand Prix, the highest level of competition featured at HITS Shows. After spending many years at HITS in Thermal, California, which was sold in 2019, Henselwood returned to Ocala so that she could continue to show and ride at HITS. “Tom’s attention to detail is why HITS has been a successful venue across America for decades,” Henselwood added. “HITS has helped me prepare for two Olympic games and I’m confident they will continue to prepare the next generation of Grand Prix riders.

I have two horses at HITS Ocala that I want on the list for the [Olympic] Games in the next four years and have always prepared for that by spending my winters at the HITS Shows.”

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | FEB 2021 |

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| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | AUG 2020

A FULL CIRCLE OF CARE CENTERED ON YOU.

40 Years From tourist guide to award-winning city magazine

I

t’s been 40 years since Ocala Magazine was first published, and like the community it covers, it has gone through myriad changes – including three name changes — in becoming the area’s premier city magazine.

The original name was Today in Ocala, and it started as a tourism digest. The concept originated with the wife of the manager of the Sheridan Hotel of Ocala, Mary Profitt. That publication would eventually be taken over by Linda Marks, whose husband, Bob, had made his fortune as head of a Madison Avenue advertising agency in New York before building a thoroughbred farm, now Double Diamond Farm, in Ocala. It was in Ocala where Bob and Linda met, then married.

While building the Ocala Jockey Club, Bob Marks stayed at the Sheridan Hotel, where Mary Profitt approached him with the idea that she thought there was a market for a tourist magazine in Ocala. At the time, the Six Gun Territory, the Wax Museum and Silver Springs were popular attractions.

“She felt there was a tourism market,

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| FEB 2021 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

because she worked the front desk with her husband and people would ask questions on where to go for the attractions, as well as where to eat near them,” Linda Marks said.

Profitt, however, quickly found she could not afford the printing bill and, after three issues, agreed to sell the publication to the Marks.

Linda Marks thought the experience of writing for and running a magazine would be good practice for when she needed to write for law school, her ultimate goal. She instantly decided she wanted to publish a city magazine, not a tourism magazine.

Marks published the first issue of Today in Ocala under her name, with her new vision, in April 1981.

TREND-SETTING INNOVATOR City magazines were not considered fiscally feasible for a town like Ocala. They were seen as something better suited for bigger cities.

Marks determined if she produced a digest-sized magazine and charged two-thirds of the price of the ads a city magazine would command, then the Ocala marketplace could

sustain it, and the advertising would greatly enhance the advertisers’ bottom line.

Another innovation that struck her as potentially successful was controlled circulation distribution. She had seen it work for some digest magazines in the northeast, whereby pick up stands are placed in high circulation centers, businesses, and organizations around town. She was the first to try it in Florida, and it proved to be a success.

In October 1987, Marks made her first magazine name change from Today in Ocala to Ocala Today. At the time, Ocala Today was the only magazine in Ocala, and the only one in the state of Florida owned and operated by a woman.

Over the years, Marks started 15 magazines. Some ran for a long time, like Gainesville Today, which was published for 30 years.

DAWN OF THE MODERN OCALA MAGAZINE The final name change was made in March 2002 to Ocala Magazine. The magazine had also gone from a digest to a full-sized edition. It was during this time that Marks was married to her

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Celebrating

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OM OC A L A M AG A Z IN E

JAN 2021

A New Year– A New, Beautiful You!

APR 2019

Olivia Newton-John

EXCLUSIVE:

on Ocala, Her Autobiography and Living in the Moment

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Our Foolproof

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Ocala’s City Magazine Since 1980 | $5.95

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A Life of

Beauty second husband, Vinnie Chhabra, a world-renown journalist and Pulitzer Prize nominee.

Marks surrounded herself with talented people. She scouted the nation for the best designers, editors and sales team.

In 2005, Linda added a quarterly Ocala Home magazine, and annual Ocala Charity Register. The exceptional design and content garnered numerous awards from multiple organizations, not only the Florida Magazine Association, throughout the state.

Now 40 years since its inception, Ocala Magazine is still being published. Over those four decades it has grown in and changed and been a pioneer in the digital media mar-

ket and utilizing social media as part of the marketing campaigns for its advertisers. Ocala Magazine was one of the first to be read on e-readers and add events as a marketing opportunity in publishing.

Marks pinpointed Glassman to purchase the magazine because she thought he was the right one to carry the torch forward.

“It was exciting to have a new group of young people with the incentive to move the magazine forward with new innovations to enhance Ocala,” Marks said.

Photo by John Jernigan

Catch up with Ocala Magazine’s first cover model contest winner, Kimberly Leemans

PHILLIP GLASSMAN As a career, Glassman has always enjoyed

In October 1987, Marks made her first magazine name change from Today in Ocala to Ocala Today. At the time, Ocala Today was the only magazine in Ocala, and the only one in the state of Florida owned and operated by a woman.

Philip Glassman, Linda Marks and Randy Woodruff

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | FEB 2021 |

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

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real estate, the family business. He got his real estate license at age 18 and has been in real estate sales and development since then.

“Linda and I have had a great relationship over 25 years, and she has always been a loyal friend,” Glassman said.

So, when Linda Marks called Glassman asking for help, as she was ready to pass the baton over, he was there for her to assist her.

At first, being the real estate man that he is, he saw a real estate deal. An opportunity to acquire one of the oldest and well known historic properties in Ocala’s Historic District, The Chambliss House.

Glassman would soon realize buying Ocala Magazine was much more than a real estate deal. It gave way to allow him to pursue his passions. See, his second love is entertainment, as he is a SAG-AFTRA (Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Arts) and AEA (Actor’s Equity Association) accredited actor. Bringing to the table his creativity and affection for the arts, along with his expertise generating sales and building contacts made him the perfect match to carry on Linda’s torch.

“As soon as we bought the magazine, the first order of business was to rebrand it to set it apart from the competition, thus the OM brand was born.”

“My partner, Randy Woodruff, brought

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| FEB 2021 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

his own talents,” Glassman said. “Randy is a CPA who owns a firm with two offices and more than 1,000 clients.” With Randy’s attentiveness to details and his polished organizational skills these two provide the balance needed for a great partnership.

For Glassman, the vision of Ocala Magazine is exactly what Marks, as the founder, created— a city magazine which addresses global and national issues that affect our local community, where the magazine has been able to focus on charities in our community that directly affect the quality of life of the people of Ocala, Marion County and The Villages.

RANDY WOODRUFF Born and raised in Brooksville, north of Tampa, Woodruff is a CPA, certified fraud examiner, and a licensed realtor. He has worked in the accounting field for over 26 years. His father started their accounting firm, Ken Woodruff and associates, in 1974.

Randy joined the firm after graduating college in 1994 with his master’s degree. The firm changed its name, which is now called, Suncoast CPA Group.

Woodruff met Glassman through some common contacts in the Ocala area years ago. “It was one of those relationships where you meet someone and you have a lot in common with business goals, and similar

interests,”Woodruff said. Woodruff identified Glassman’s business strengths as the ability to recognize opportunities and recognizing their potential. Woodruff says the strengths he brings to the partnership include some of the same, but also his financial background serves the financial operations of the business.

Regarding their partnership, Glassman is a bit more the visionary, and Woodruff is a bit more the operations manager.

Glassman and Woodruff have already worked on various businesses together, including entertainment projects in the Ocala area. So, when Glassman called upon Woodruff to consider partnering on Ocala Magazine, he jumped on board.

“I could tell from my tour of the magazine office, and the numerous awards, the magazine had a rich history as well as a good reputation for quality content and design,” Woodruff said. “I agreed with assessments made by Linda and Philip, that from time to time, what a business needs is a boost from new leadership.”

Woodruff decided OM was a good opportunity to get involved with, which had a talented team who was eager to take the publication to the next level.

And 40 years after its beginnings as a tourist guide, Ocala Magazine is a thriving city magazine serving Ocala, Marion County and The Villages.

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In February, love is in the air. Some of our readers share their stories of blissful beginnings and passionate proposals.

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| FEB 2021 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

Tyla and Ale

A Whirlwind Romance

BY TYLA KENNEDY ROA

Tyla Kennedy Roa and Miguel Alejandro Roa

Photography by Christin Hayes

T

en months ago, I met the love of my life! Right before the COVID pandemic hit, my husband-to-be came to Ocala to visit his uncle.

Leaving Publix one day, I noticed a leash-less dog walking the road and so I slowed down to investigate. The man walking behind the dog I figured to be the owner and I rolled down my window and said to him, “nice dog!” What I really meant to say was, “nice man!”

Without much thought, I drove off.

A week later I was looking for a new home and I called a number for a house and went to see it. When I pulled into the driveway, there was that same man with his dog washing a car – I was shocked to see him again! He pulled his phone out to translate his words to me: “Hello, my name is Ale; I’m visiting from Colombia. Can you show me Ocala?”

Without hesitation, I replied “Yes!” After COVID hit two weeks later, Ale’s uncle left Ocala, but he made the decision to stay here with me. Colombia closed its borders and we did not know where our future would be. For the next three months we Google-translated every conversation and came to know each other. By July, we were married.

In February we will have known each other for a year and been married for seven months. Despite the troubles in the world, we managed to have our fairy tale come true!

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Erica and Joe: The Mysterious Countdown to an Elaborate Proposal

T

he billboards in November of 2020 had many in Ocala scratching their heads while wondering what was at the end of this enigmatic public countdown.

6 DAYS, 59 MINUTES . . .

3 DAYS, 13 MINUTES . . .

1 MINUTE REMAINING . . .

Each billboard posted Erica Olstein’s name in big bold letters while a countdown timer kept everyone, including Erica herself, in bewildered anticipation. It was all part of Joe Borge’s adventure-filled engagement week for his soon-to-be fiancé.

On the day of her engagement, Erica was unknowingly swept away in a limousine and she found herself in the most extravagant scavenger hunt accompanied by a camera crew, a drone and her best friend. The limousine drove her all throughout Ocala, but not until she guessed where each stop was, hinted by envelopes adorned with custom wax seals that revealed playful rhyming poems.

Each stop was complete with a musical orchestra that played music of Joe’s choosing, music that was reminiscent of their relationship. Also at each stop was an activity and those included elaborate acrobatic performances, live magic in the middle of a beautiful vintage farm, enormous wooden puzzles scattered in a lawn for her to piece together, tiki torch-lined hills for her to hike, picnic blankets decorated in rose petals and candles, fermented mushroom teas for Erica to dunk her hands into to find clues, a dress in which to change, a quick stop in a warm

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sauna and more.

Starting it all off were the countdown billboards.

The last stop of the scavenger hunt was Ocala’s downtown square where the limousine dropped her off. There her best friend was able to hand her off to her husband-to-be. The downtown gazebo was adorned with beautiful balloon displays, a string quartet with a professional conductor, many close friends and family members and, of course, Joe waiting in the center of it all eagerly waiting to ask Erica to spend the rest of her life with him.

At 5 p.m. when the billboard’s timer ended, Joe proposed to Erica (at which point the billboards changed to read, “She Said Yes!”) Erica jokingly said was not sure and that Joe would have to wait a full week’s worth of another countdown to find out if she said ‘yes’ or ‘no.’

As they walked away from the square, people along the streets yelled out congratulations. Suddenly, Joe pulled Erica into an art gallery where she found all her friends and family waiting for her at a catered dinner party.

The wedding is planned to take place in early 2022. To view the engagement video on YouTube, one can type into the search bar, “The Erica & Joe Hallmark Special – An Engagement Extravaganza!”

Nana Rose’s engagement ring, a romantic candlelit dinner…the stage was set…with a little help from a wonderful friend and colleague…and Disney!

The Engagement

My dear son Joseph was eager to propose to the love of his life, Marah…and theRose’s planning began for theaperfect evening. in Orlando then, Nana engagement ring, romantic candlelitLiving/working dinner…the stage was I mentioned it to from my banking colleagues seeking suggestions/ideas…and my set…with a little help a wonderful friend and colleague…and Disney! friend and fellow banker Mary said…”I have it”! Her spouse worked for My dear son Joseph was eager to propose to the love of his life, Marah…and Disney’s Animal Kingdom and after confirming with Joe, one call later, the planning began for the perfect evening. Living/working in Orlando then, reservations were made for dinner at the Contemporary’s beautiful rooftop I mentioned it to my banking colleagues seeking suggestions/ideas…and my restaurant overlooking CINDERELLA’S CASTLE and through their friend and fellow banker Mary said…”I have it”! Her spouse worked for “engagement department” all was arranged theone proposal - the ring Disney’s Animal Kingdom and after confirming withfor Joe, call later, cushionedwere in amade rosebud within at a GLASS SLIPPER to be delivered under a reservations for dinner the Contemporary’s beautiful rooftop silver dome timed just as the fireworks over the Castle…WOW! And restaurant overlooking CINDERELLA’S CASTLEbegan and through their Mary insisted on beingall there video itfor all…her experience… a tale for “engagement department” was to arranged the proposal - the ring anotherinday!

But thanks toGLASS her weSLIPPER have this cherished moment cushioned a rosebud within a to be delivered under acaptured.

Needless to say, Marahbegan were over beyond and everything silver dome timed justJoseph as the and fireworks Castle…WOW! And

BY BARBARA FITOS BYthe AMYthrilled BRADFORD went flawlessly…almost…except his nervousness, Joseph his wallet, Mary insisted on being there to video in it all…her experience… a taleforgot for y dear son Joseph was eager to propose to the love of another day! paid But thanks to her we she havesaid this YES!!! cherished moment captured. so Marah for dinner after And 20 years and four his life, Marah, and this required the perfect setting for Needless to the say, Joseph and Marah were beyond thrilled and everything beautiful children later, lived after… perfect evening.

I livedthey in Orlando at thehappily time and ever

Joseph and Marah A Proposal Fit for a Princess

Amy and Kevin

A Christmas Surprise

M

was fortunate to have a banking colleague, Mary, whose went flawlessly…almost…except in his nervousness, Joseph forgot his wallet, husband worked for Disney’s Animal Kingdom. One call later, reserso Marah paid for dinner after she said YES!!! And 20 years and four Barbara Robinson Fitos vations were made for dinner at the Contemporary Hotel’s beautiful beautiful they lived happily ever after… restaurantchildren overlooking later, Cinderella’s Castle.

Through the Contemporary’s engagement department, all was arranged for the proposal: the ring cushioned in a rosebud within a glass slipper to be delivered under a silver dome and timed just as fireworks began over the castle.

Needless to say, Joseph and Marah were beyond thrilled and everything went flawlessly . . . almost. In his nervousness, Joseph had forgotten his wallet, leaving Marah to pay for dinner after she had said ‘Yes!’ Twenty years and four beautiful children later, they lived happily ever after!

Barbara Robinson Fitos

I

was working at Disney World when Kevin and I started dating and since he was living in Alabama at the time, it was a long-distance relationship. I am narcoleptic and have always had a tough time with very early shifts, but Kevin decided he would call me every morning – sometimes 19 to 20 times – until I heard the phone ring and woke up. This was 3 a.m. for him in Alabama!

Once in the car driving to the Magic Kingdom, I would call him back and he would talk to me the entire 45-minute commute so that I stayed awake and made it to work safely – now that’s true love!

One Christmas day after multiple parades and character events, Kevin called as I was driving home late that evening and I began to cry.

I said that all I wanted for Christmas was to see him. After I arrived at my apartment that night, a motion on the sidewalk spooked me. I screamed, threw my phone and keys in the bushes and started running back to my car when I heard a voice: “Anya, it’s me! Merry Christmas!”

Sure enough, my love stood there in front of me after driving eight hours to make my Christmas wish come true. I promptly wrapped him in a hug, getting tears (and mascara) all over his white hoodie!

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | FEB 2021 |

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Naturally reducing & removing pollutants from stormwater The Ocala Wetland Recharge Park incorporates treated wastewater and stormwater from the Old City Yard, a drainage retention area (DRA), that is located near the park and has historically ooded during heavy rain events. The park captures this water, therefore reducing regional ooding. Stormwater can contain many contaminants like nitrogen and phosphorus from fertilizers, pet and yard waste, oil, grease, heavy metals, vehicle coolants, bacteria and litter. These stormwater contaminants are the leading cause of water pollution. By sending this water to the Ocala Wetland sen Recharge Park, the total nitrogen can be reduced to nearly undetectable levels, and the total phosphorus will be greatly reduced. This freshly cleaned water will improve water quality and boost regional groundwater supplies.

Follow us on Facebook & Instagram @ocalawetlandrechargepark This project has been funded wholly or in part by the United States Environmental Protection Agency under assistance agreement C9.994515617 to the city of Ocala through an agreement/ contract with the Nonpoint Source Management Program of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. The contents of this document do not necessarily reect the views and policies of the t Environmental Protection Agency, nor does the EPA endorse trade names or recommended the use of commercial productions mentioned in this document.

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Crape Murder Confessions Of An Over-Pruner: How I Butchered My Crape Myrtle, and Why It Won’t Happen Again

BY R.J. JENKINS

I

grew up with my hands in the dirt.

My great-grandparents gardened, my grandfather gardened, my parents gardened. On my tenth birthday, I asked for vegetable seeds and cow manure. Nobody batted an eye.

I think that’s why, when we moved into our house on Fort King Street in Oc-

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ala’s historic district, I was especially excited about the yard and gardens. But the property had been unoccupied for months before we bought it, and so the landscape sat smothered under a year’s worth of Spanish moss.

The azaleas were spindly, wild, and mildewed.

The box hedges, normally the most well-mannered plant in the garden, were feral. And the

weeds. Goodness gracious the weeds.

And then there was the crape myrtle in the front yard. A beautiful specimen of the plant: tall, graceful, dressed in satin bark and covered in showy white blooms. For someone with an informed eye, the tree looked exactly as it should look, the product of decades of immaculate, knowing care. But to

my eye, unfamiliar with the nuances of gardening in the south – and of crape myrtles in particular – the tree seemed simply too tall.

And so when the time came, just as soon as the threat of frost had passed, I did to my crape myrtle what I saw so many other people doing to their crape myrtles: I unceremoniously lobbed off the top of every branch,

not quite in a straight line, but almost. And with each satisfying slice, I thought to myself: “I am a good boy. I am helping.”

I was not a good boy. And I was not helping.

Folks in the know call it crape murder: the unapologetic and aggressive – but almost always well-meaning – over-pruning of crape myrtle trees every spring. Thinking

back, I can identify three main reasons why I thought I was doing the right thing when I gave my tree a bad 90s buzz cut.

First, I saw other people doing it, and so I assumed it was the right thing to do (pro tip: this is a really bad reason to do just about anything.) Second, it seemed like a common sense way to re-shape a tree that, in my es-

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Photo by Ralph Demilio

Suzanne Shuffitt in front of R.J. Jenkins' crape myrtle tree

timation, had gotten too big for its britches.

And third, it felt intuitive to me that a good, hard prune in the spring would encourage more enthusiastic flowering come summer.

I have since learned that I was maybe a tiny bit right, but mostly – and in an impressive variety of ways – I was dead wrong.

Happily, Ocala abounds with folks who know more about southern gardening in their green thumbs than I know in my whole body, and a few of them have been kind enough to educate me on the subject. One of those folks is Cathy Steppen-Snyder. Cathy is a Master Gardener and a brilliant practitioner of natural plant propagation, soil building, and pest management. Whenever I mention crape murder to her, she winces: “If you don’t know what to do, then it’s probably best to do nothing. Pruning crape myrtles can be beneficial in certain circumstances, but for the most part, it’s unnecessary. For me, it’s all about right plant, right place – and that’s true of any plant. If you have to brutalize your tree every year to make it fit, then you’ve probably got the wrong plant for that place. Put the loppers down and look for a different variety.”

Fellow Master Gardener and professional horticulturist/floriculturist, Suzanne Shuffitt, is equally protective of this staple of southern landscapes: “First, let’s give credit to this genus of plants for it’s extreme forgiveness of mistreatment. Even through all the improper pruning habits, the weed eater blight, the lack of proper fertilization – despite all of it, crape myrtles just keep on giving. They refuse to give up.

They are generous, gracious plants.”

When asked to share with me their most trusted tips for the proper pruning of crape myrtles, Suzanne and Cathy echoed each other beautifully: Prune to remove dead or damaged limbs, limbs that are crisscrossed and rubbing, suckers sprouting from the base of the tree, and nuisance limbs that might endanger passersby. Prune with discretion. If you’re wondering whether or not a limb should go, it should probably stay.

Only prune branches that are the thickness of your thumb or smaller. Leave larger limbs be.

Right plant, right place. Don’t try to wrestle a too large plant into a too small space.

If you have to brutalize your tree every year to make it fit, then you’ve probably got the wrong plant for that place.

Happily, crape myrtles are very tolerant of being transplanted. And if you’re welcoming a new crape to the yard – or any plant, for that matter – take note of the mature height of the varieties you’re considering.

While it is true that pruning stimulates new growth – and while it is also true that careful pruning can encourage more active blooming – crape myrtles will bloom whether or not you prune them. If your crape isn’t blooming, it probably wants more sun. Crape myrtles are gluttons for full sun.

When it comes to pruning, timing is key. If you decide to prune your crape myrtles, try to do it after the threat of frost has passed, but before too much new growth has emerged. You don't want a late cold snap killing your carefully cultivated new growth,

and you don't want early pruning to coax your tree out of dormancy prematurely. Nobody likes being woken up from a nap!

And if you – like me – are a convicted crape murderer, reform is within your grasp!

Remember: these plants are exceedingly gracious. They want to forgive! They want to thrive! And with a little information and a lot of patience, even a severely mistreated crape myrtle can be rehabilitated. Selective pruning – choosing the strongest two or three sprouts from each stub and removing the rest, and repeating this process for several successive seasons – can greatly improve the health and appearance of a crape myrtle in as few as three years.

As my mother always said, the best apology is changed behavior.

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | FEB 2021 |

35

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Joe Moseley Lego Master and STEM instructor extraordinaire

BY CARLTON REESE

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| FEB 2021 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

Photo by Ralph Demilio

O

ne day he oversees the planning and building of such iconic structures as the Empire State Building and the Hoover Dam; the next he’s leading an expedition to dig up dinosaur bones at a nearby excavation site. For Joe Moseley, it’s all in a day’s work but it never really seems that way to him.

As STEM Coordinator for The Cornerstone School, Moseley takes a somewhat unconventional approach to instilling in students a passion for learning what most children may find dull.

Not simply relying on boilerplate materials to teach the disciplines of science, technology, engineering and math, Moseley has carved out a clever niche in his methodology by virtue of his passion for Legos.

That’s right – Legos, as in the popular building-blocks toy

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | FEB 2021 |

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enjoyed by children all over the world.

In 2018, Moseley was selected Master Lego Educator of the United States, due mainly to his geography lessons in which he had students construct distinctive buildings with Legos as part of the learning process.

In order to help his students learn the different regions of the U.S. they were to construct replicas of the Statue of Liberty, Golden Gate Bridge, the Empire State Building, the Hoover Dam and others.

“To quote one of the Lego educators: ‘Children learn best through play,’” says Moseley, who left careers in the restaurant business and in computer hardware and software development to join the Cornerstone team 20 years

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| FEB 2021 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

ago. “Even though play doesn’t get its due and respect in this world of education, us Lego educators know and feel there is a lot of learning going on during play.”

Moseley’s geography lesson plan that included Legos was the signature series leading to his award, which was given to him at Tufts University in Boston in front of 300 people from around the world. “It meant a lot to me to be recognized for what I feel like has been my life’s work.”

Not long after winning the Lego award, Moseley earned the

Photos courtesy of Joe Moseley

“Lego educators know and feel there is a lot of learning going on during play.”

“A good STEM educator I believe has an eye on how to engage the kids.”

Mike Neden STEM Champion Award from the International STEM Educators Association.

The award honors individuals “who have implemented STEM programs, provided professional development, encouraged others and have been instrumental in supporting integrated STEM education.” The honor also coincided with The Cornerstone School’s recognition with the ISEA STEM School of Excellence Award.

The awards are nice, but for Moseley, seeing the excitement

on students’ faces as they learn various concepts has its own reward and is what drives his unparalleled enthusiasm. When he speaks of his STEM lessons, Moseley sounds like Tony Robbins giving a motivational speech and you want to immediately dive into his next project with him.

“A good STEM educator I believe has an eye on how to engage the kids,” Moseley said.

“I’m not the smartest guy in the world, but I do know how to get a kid fired up and excited.”

The use of Legos in geography lessons was a prime example of Moseley’s philosophy that STEM can be used in all phases of the classroom and he relies on his creative

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | FEB 2021 |

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Photo by Ralph Demilio

thinking to fuse educational disciplines that seem miles apart.

“STEM is not a different room you go to all the time,” said Moseley. “STEM education should impact and support the learning in the classroom. So I go and ask those teachers what they are working on and learning about then I go back and see what kind of creative STEM activity I can do that will emphasize that particular lesson.”

Hence, the Lego structures for geogra-

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phy class. He has also used the Legos to help first graders in a unit on the human body as students were to construct parts of the skeleton. “Part of what they had to do was to know the most important bones of the body.” In essence, the students are having fun playing with Legos while at the same time gaining more than just rudimentary knowledge of the subject matter.

Moseley’s Lego acumen has garnered him individual awards and helped him lead

Cornerstone to national recognition and could now lead him onto the television airwaves. His reputation has him being recruited as a potential participant on the Fox television reality competition program ‘Lego Masters.’

He recently went through the initial interview process with the show’s producer and will be submitting an audition tape for review.

If selected, Moseley would be teamed with his friend Mark McCombs, the Northeast Florida FIRST Lego League Director of Robotics in Jacksonville. The show, which films for five weeks in Atlanta starting the final week of February, pits two-person teams of Lego enthusiasts facing off in brick-building challenges.

If qualifying for the show, the pair would also be involved in robotics, a subject

that melds nicely with Legos and garners great interest from Moseley. For the last 13 years, Moseley has sponsored one of the biggest robotics tournaments in the state, “Robopalooza,” which The Cornerstone School conducts with Forest High School’s EMIT program.

“When I started doing robotics, I didn’t want just one or two teams – I’ve tried to blow it up and make it one of the fundamental things we are known for as a STEM education school,” Moseley said. “We have more robotics teams than any school in the county – the kids here are really jacked up to do this kind of activity.”

At the school, Moseley believes he has around a million Lego pieces that are of use to any age group.

“Easily half of those pieces are the types of Legos that go into the robotics programs and structures,” Moseley said. “The other types of products I have are the blocks you see little children playing with. So I have two focus areas applying to Legos: one is blocks that apply to kindergarten and lower age groups, then around fifth grade we start using the robotics.”

For the eighth graders recently, Lego blocks were used to create PSA videos as part of the technology curriculum. In the videos, which were to instruct proper hygiene during this era of COVID, stop-action techniques were incorporated with Lego figures and backdrops.

Moseley is quick to point out that the use of Legos is only a part of the STEM methodology he uses. Although deemed a Lego Master today, Moseley admits, “I can’t make the claim that as a child I played with Legos and just couldn’t let them go.” For him, Legos serves as one of many teaching aids.

He is taking aim at modern misconceptions about STEM curriculum where most attention seems to be on computer codes and high-tech concepts.

“Philosophically, when you talk about STEM education, you’re going to find people that think it’s just about computers and that high-end electronic technology,” Moseley said. “STEM is also hammers and shovels, what we used to call in my day, ‘shop class.’

My kids know how to hammer, why you use a screw and when you don’t use a screw – simple machine concepts that go with levers, that

For his third graders’ weather project, Moseley has the students build their own weather stations as opposed to purchasing them at a store. you calculate mechanical advantage.”

For his third graders’ weather project, Moseley has the students build their own weather stations as opposed to purchasing them at a store. The first graders also received some hands-on training for an archeological dig which required the use of spades and brushes as opposed to computer programs.

With the help of a rancher friend who provided an entire cow skeleton, Moseley buried that skeleton at the school then proclaimed to the students, “I think I might have found a dinosaur!” Moseley and the students laid out a grid similar to an archeological dig site and all were given a spade and small paint brush.

“I made sure every kid found at least one bone and it was just an awesome project,” Moseley said. “We had a lot of math concepts, a lot of science; they learned what an archeologist does. I see STEM as a very wide thing. A lot of people classify STEM as just technology; I see it as much bigger.

“Any first grader loves dinosaurs. Whenever a kid has something they like, if you’re a good teacher you try to follow that thread.”

Moseley’s range as an instructor is staggering. In addition to his status as a Lego Master, Moseley is CAD (Computer-Aided Design) certified through Project Lead the Way, a nonprofit organization that develops STEM curricula for schools. He is also certified by Code.org, an organization dedicated to computer science education and conducts a program called Hour of Code.

Moseley uses these certifications outside of school hours. He recently incorporated the national program Girls Who Code, which offers instruction on how to code computer programs for any girl in Marion County whether a Cornerstone student or

not. And it’s all free of charge.

“I have guests come in that are experts in their field: one from Lockheed Martin, one from the Fifth Judicial court system and that is the technology director and a man that does technology for an accounting firm,” Moseley said. “The girls come in and they get a free dinner and they also learn how to code.”

Moseley credits the opportunity for innovation and creative methodology to the flexibility offered by Cornerstone’s Head of School, Ingrid Wasserfall, who he says is a “visionary for education.” He never feels locked into a lesson plan that keeps him from exploring options that may go outside normal teaching methodology.

“My boss will give you the freedom to work on your craft as a teacher,” Moseley said. “What’s different is that I have the independence to create lessons and come up with new things. My daughter, when she was teaching fourth grade (in the public school system) she knew that she was supposed to be on page 89 in the math book on a certain date. We have flexibility.

Such is the case with being able to hone your craft at a small, independent school like Cornerstone, which has one class for each grade kindergarten through middle school.

“We still have teachers that are (state) certified and we do standardized testing and all that. But if you’re a teacher who wants to reach kids in a better way, we’re the kind of place to go teach at.”

With his work in robotics, creative handson lesson plans and the incorporation of Legos in his teaching, Moseley has been able to achieve his goal of reaching kids in significant and sometimes unorthodox ways. For Moseley and Cornerstone, it’s a perfect fit.

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | FEB 2021 |

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40 YEARS OF STORYTELLING

We have provided a voice for our community for 40 years and we are dedicated to making that voice known. That’s where you come in! With plans of expanding to The Villages, we want you to join our team!

POSITIONS AVAILABLE:

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WHERE TO APPLY:

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OM PULSE

Each month, Ocala Magazine will showcase the tastes, opinions and desires of its readers through its online survey. For January, we discovered these little nuggets:

39% Size Slow Pace 39% OF OM READERS POLLED WILL CELEBRATE VALENTINE’S DAY WITH DINNER AT RESTAURANT

AND

25% will have dinner at home while 25% will not celebrate Valentine’s Day.

ARE MAIN REASONS PEOPLE LOVE LIVING IN OCALA Natural environment and friendly citizens were also noted

WILL GIVE CHOCOLATES/ SWEETS AS A VALENTINE’S GIFT

Traffic loud vehicles AND

25% will give favors as a Valentine’s gift

ARE THE LEAST ATTRACTIVE ASPECTS OF LIVING IN OCALA Small size and limited entertainment options were also noted

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63% PREFER THIN CRUST PIZZA TO THICK CRUST

Sean Connery IS THE FAVORITE FILM ACTOR AMONG OM READERS POLLED

Others receiving much mention: Robert Downey, Jr., Denzel Washington and Tom Hanks

Steven Spielberg IS THE FAVORITE FILM DIRECTOR AMONG RESPONDERS Others mentioned prominently include Ron Howard, Quentin Tarantino and Clint Eastwood

43%

Meryl Streep IS THE FAVORITE FILM ACTRESS AMONG OM READERS POLLED Julia Roberts and Natalie Portman also received high praise

DESCRIBE THEMSELVES AS ‘VORACIOUS’ WHEN IT COMES TO SPRING CLEANING 38% are ‘unenthusiastic’ about spring cleaning

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | FEB 2021 |

47

eat

A picnic is romantic on Valentine’s Day or any day!

Shop or order out at any of the delicious local restaurants to minize your prep time.

Seasonal Selections p50 | Dining Out p54

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | FEB 2021 |

49

Seasonal

Selections STORY, RECIPES AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROBIN FANNON

W

hen it’s cold outside, we tend to think about hearty, stick-to-your-rib type meals, but during the winter months delicious vegetables are plentiful, in particular those of the cruciferous variety which happen to have some of the greatest health benefits. They are low in calorie, rich in folate, vitamins C, E and K, and are loaded with dietary fiber. These dynamos can lower body inflammation and have been proven to reduce the risk of developing cancer. Unfortunately, they can also be tough with strong unique flavors, so the challenge is to make them palatable and delicious. This month's recipes are just that! One extra salad recipe consisting of fennel, beets and in-season citrus fruits is included for good measure. All are extremely delicious and packed with life affirming super foods. Here is just a fun fact: The name cruciferous comes from a latin word meaning "cross bearing" because their base petals resemble a cross.

Instagram @RSVP_ROBIN

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OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | FEB 2021 |

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Kale Caesar Salad INGREDIENTS Croutons:

» » » » »

6 cups of 1-inch diced rustic bread (ciabatta or Italian loaf) 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil 1 clove garlic, minced (about 1 teaspoon) 1 teaspoon kosher salt 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Vinaigrette:

» » » » » » »

Sautéed Cabbage with Cumin Seeds and Turmeric INGREDIENTS » » » » »

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 1 1/2 teaspoons cumin seeds 3 pounds green cabbage, cored and thinly shredded 1 1/2 teaspoons turmeric 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt

INSTRUCTIONS

• In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over moderate heat. Stir in the cumin seeds and cook until they are fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add the shredded cabbage, turmeric and kosher salt and cook, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is softened and browned in spots, 15 to 20 minutes.

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| FEB 2021 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

1 clove garlic 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard 1 1/2 Tbsp lemon juice 1 1/2 teaspoon white wine vinegar (can sub apple cider vinegar) 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil 1/3 cup grated Parmesan (use vegetarian Parmesan for vegetarian option) » 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper Salad:

» 8 cups kale leaves (lightly packed), ribs removed and leaves torn into bite-size pieces » 2 large head romaine lettuce hearts, cut in half lengthwise, and then cut in half again lengthwise, then cut crosswise on a diagonal, to 1-inch wide strips » 4 Tbsp grated Parmesan

INSTRUCTIONS

• 1 Toast croutons: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread bread cubes out in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet. Place in oven and bake until golden brown, about 8 to 10 minutes.

Remove from oven. Toss while still warm in a bowl with olive oil, garlic, salt and pepper.

• 2 Make vinaigrette: Place the vinaigrette ingredients into a blender or food processor. Purée until smooth.

• 3 Assemble salad: Place the chopped kale and romaine leaves into a large bowl. Add the dressing and massage with your (clean) hands until the salad is well dressed. (Massaging the kale with your hands helps soften the leaves.) Alternatively, dress the salad and let it sit for an hour or two, allowing time for the dressing to soften the sturdy kale. Add the croutons and the Parmesan cheese.

Fennel, Roasted Beet and Citrus Salad INGREDIENTS » » » » » » » » » »

2 medium red beets, tops trimmed 3 blood oranges 1 medium navel orange (preferably Cara Cara) 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice 1/2 small fennel bulb, very thinly sliced crosswise on a mandoline 1/4 red onion, very thinly sliced on a mandoline (about 1/3 cup) Good-quality extra-virgin olive, pumpkin seed, or walnut oil (for drizzling) Coarse sea salt, such as fleur de sel or Maldon sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper 1/4 cup loosely packed fresh cilantro and/or chervil leaves

INSTRUCTIONS

• Preheat oven to 400°. Wash beets, leaving some water on skins. Wrap individually in foil; place on a rimmed baking sheet and roast until beets are tender when pierced with a knife, about 1 hour. Let cool.

• Meanwhile, using a sharp knife, cut all peel and white pith from all oranges; discard.

Working over a medium bowl, cut between membranes of 2 blood oranges to release segments into bowl; squeeze juice from membranes into bowl and discard membranes.

Slice remaining blood orange and Cara Cara orange crosswise into thin rounds. Place sliced oranges in bowl with the segments. Add lemon juice and lime juice.

• Peel cooled beets. Slice 2 beets crosswise into thin rounds. Cut remaining 2 beets into wedges. Strain citrus juices; reserve. Layer beets and oranges on plates, dividing evenly.

Arrange fennel and onion over beets. Spoon reserved citrus juices over, then drizzle salad generously with oil. Season to taste with coarse sea salt and pepper.

Collard Green Wraps INGREDIENTS » » » » » » »

fresh collard greens (these can be blanched if desired) tri-colored quinoa (cooked as per instructions) sliced fresh mango sliced fresh red pepper strips sliced fresh mango sprouts or micro greens sour cream and lemon

INSTRUCTIONS

• Lay collard greens on a flat surface and remove bottom part of stem • Starting with approximately 3 tablespoons of cooked quinoa as the base, layer the rest of the ingredients on top.

• Top with a squeeze of lemon and dollop of sour cream. Wrap all the ingredients up in the collard greens and enjoy!

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | FEB 2021 |

53

EAT

dining out

Milano Pizzeria and Ristorante NOW OPEN! Milano Ristorante Italiano — a pizzaria bringing authentic cuisine to the Ocala area. Enjoy made-from-scratch Italian cuisine every day, including freshly baked bread.

• Wednesdays— Buy One, Take One Home - select pasta dishes with purchase of an entree. Valid with entrees of $16.99 or more.

• Tuesday— $5 Calamari App • Thursdays— Buy One, Get One Half Off any Takeout Pizza • Sundays— 2 for 1 chicken parmesan every Sunday all day (with purchase of 2 beverages)

Now Delivering!

OFFERING TAKEOUT & CURBSIDE ORDERS!

For curbside service including wine, beer and full menu, call 352-304-8549 We’ll bring it out to you!

Get $25 back for every $100 in gift cards purchased.

Open Daily 11am-9pm 5400 SW College Road, Unit 106 | Ocala, FL 34474 | (352) 304-8549 www.milanotogo.com

Legacy Restaurant At The Nancy Lopez Country Club Join us at The Villages‘ Best Country Club for lunch and dinner. Serving steaks and seafood with various wine selections.

Monday - Prime Rib Night Tuesday - Three Course Dinner starting at 14.99 Tuesday - Lobster Night Friday - $1 oysters all day (raw, broiled, rockafeller(+.25) Saturday - Legacy BOGO 1/2 off anything on the menu (with purchase of two beverages. Must show coupon.)

Sunday Evening - Special Filet Oscar $19.99 Weekends - Weekend Brunch! 11am-3pm Live outdoor entertainment! See website for schedule!

17135 Buena Vista Blvd | The Villages, FL 32162 | (352) 753-1475 SuleimanLegacyInc@gmail.com | Follow us on Facebook www.legacyrestaurant.com Open Fri-Sat 11 am-8:30pm | Sun-Thurs 11 am-8:00pm

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Now Open For Dine In! OFFERING TAKEOUT & CURBSIDE ORDERS!

For curbside service including wine, beer and full menu, call 352-753-1475

We’ll bring it out to you!

Get $25 back for every $100 in gift cards purchased.

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 and 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

Havana Country Club We offer an extensive variety of cuisines—these include superior hand-cut steaks, freshly caught seafood, and authentic Italian fare. A Suleiman Family Restaurant.

Tuesday - Italian Night Wendesday - $1 oysters all day (raw, broiled, Rockefeller (+.25) Thursday - Prime rib night Saturday - New Orleans Night! Featuring Louisiana Style Seafood Boil Sunday - Southern Fried Chicken Outdoor entertainment Tues, Weds, Thurs, Sat, Sun 5-8

Now Open For Dine In! OFFERING TAKEOUT & CURBSIDE ORDERS!

For curbside service including wine, beer and full menu, call 352-430-3200

We’ll bring it out to you!

Get $25 back for every $100 in gift cards purchased.

2484 Odell Circle | The Villages, FL 32162 | (352) 430-3200 Suleimanrestaurants@gmail.com | Follow us on Facebook www.havanacc.com Open Every Day 11am–8:30pm OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | FEB 2021 |

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EAT

dining out

Ivy On The Square Be Wined, Dined & Dazzled this Valentine’s Day. Inspired Cocktails paired with the culinary artistry you’d expect. All delivered with attentive care and southern charm, surrounded by a romantic ambiance to create one special night out. Here’s to an evening that will make an impression. Make Your Reservations Today!

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

Make your Valentine’s Day reservations now!

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

West 82° Bar and Grill Come and enjoy the best Sunday plated brunch in town at the Plantation on Crystal River!

All brunches include a choice of freshly baked danish, cinnamon roll, bagel or biscuit with cinnamon honey butter and shrimp Cocktail Platter. Shrimp cocktail platter includes cocktail shrimp, cocktail sauce, lemon, smoked fish dip, chicken pate, scallop cheese spread, strawberry cream cheese spread and gourmet crackers)

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

Choose from entrees like Eggs Benedict, Seafood Crepes, Prime Benedict, Seafood Platter and more!

Finish your meal with a Chef’s choice dessert.

Brunch Price is $26.00 PP, Sundays 11:30 am to 2:00 pm

Call for reservations, hours and weekly specials.

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

Mon-Fri 7am–6pm 3200 SE 17th St (in the YMCA), Ocala, FL 34471 | 352-694-3100 www.facebook.com/cafecrispocala

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Ask about our weekly meal prep specials!

dining out

EAT

Ipanema Brazilian Steakhouse Experience an authentic taste of Brazil featuring roaming gauchos slice and serve fire-roasted meats from skewers in continual fashion. Ipanema Brazilian Steakhouse boasts 12 of the finest cuts of meat complemented by an opulent salad-vegetable bar, decadent desserts, wines, beer and cocktails. Book your private party and catering today! Our Sunday Brunch from 11a to 3p includes the salad bar plus crepe, waffle and omelet station. For $32.95 you’ll receive all of the above plus a free mimosa or bloody Mary and five different cuts of meat and our grilled pineapple.

Our keto, paleo, gluten friendly buffet menu will allow you to stick to your dietary needs.

Our NEW 3’s Catering Company brought to you buy our family of restaurants Ipanema, Latinos Y Mas and Craft Cuisine.

3sCateringCompany.com

Happy Valentine’s Day! Special Valentine’s Day Package on Sat & Sun: Full Rodizio Dinner 11:00 am-7:30 pm $44.95 Enjoy our chocolate fountain. All guests will receive a complimentary photo!

2023 S Pine Avenue, Ocala | (352) 622-1741 | ipanemaocala.com Closed for lunch › Brunch Sunday 11am-2:30pm › Dinner 4-7:30pm Dinner Tue-Thu 5pm-8:30pm › Fri-Sat 5pm-9pm

Craft Cuisine We will see you soon!

Craft Cuisine World-Inspired Culinary Creations We are closed.

We hope to see you soon and miss you, our wonderful patrons.

Follow us on social media for updates.

Golden Spoon Award Winner!

2237 SW 19th Avenue Rd., # 102, Ocala | (352) 237-7300 craftcuisineocala.com Mon-Thur 4-9pm | Fri-Sat 4-10pm

Latinos Y Mas Our restaurant is the perfect atmosphere for business lunches, family lunches or romantic dinners. Since 1991, Latinos y Mas restaurant has been serving our valued customers in Ocala and surroundings. Try the exquisite fusion of Latin food, including Pargo Rojo, Paella, Ceviches, homemade Tres Leches and our amazing passion fruit Mojitos. Enjoy in house or order from the takeaway menu.

Our keto, paleo, gluten friendly menu options will allow you to stick to your dietary needs. Happy Hour Mon-Thur 3-7pm.

Curbside pick up and family meals available to go.

Happy Valentine’s Day! Bring your loved ones on Fri and Sat to celebrate with us.

• Open Now To The Public and To Go Orders • New Favorite Bowls • Family Meals To Go and Pick Up • Online Gift Cards Our NEW 3’s Catering Company brought to you buy our family of restaurants Ipanema, Latinos Y Mas and Craft Cuisine.

3sCateringCompany.com

Party with a Latin Flair! We can cater your party or special event at your place or in one of our private rooms. Call us for orders or reservations now!

2030 South Pine Avenue, Ocala, FL 34471 | (352) 622-4777 www.latinosymas.com Mon-Thurs 11am - 8:30pm | Fri-Sat 11am-9pm | Sun closed OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | FEB 2021 |

57

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

2020 Historic Ocala Preservation Society Board Members

Sponsorship opportunities available, please contact 352-351-1861

Pamela Stafford — President Brian Stoothoff — Vice President Richard Perry — Secretary Dennis Phillips — Treasurer Linda Anker Giorgio Berry Bryan Caracciolo Robin Fannon Sean Gallaway Leon Geller Stephanie Howard R.J. Jenkins Lela Kerley Trish Kilgore Sarah Kirk Caryl Lucas Penny Miller Suzanne Thomas Rhoda Walkup Diana Williams Link Wilson Holly Yocum

712 S.E. Fort King St. Ocala, FL 34471 | (352) 351-1861 | www.HistoricOcala.org Follow us on Facebook

play

“Hard to Concentrate” by Leslie J. Wengler Photography | 352-304-2176 or Lesliejean412@gmail.com

Socially Speaking p60 | Anthology—Poetry in Motion p62

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | FEB 2021 |

59

EVENTS

socially speaking

William H. James 100th Birthday Celebration at Marion Cultural Alliance PHOTOGRAPHY BY RALPH DEMILIO The community gathered to celebrate William Harding James becoming a centenarian. T.J. Wynn welcomed the group and the invocation was done by Minister Stephanie Walker.

Lachetta James regaled the group with a beautiful song and presentations were made by the Marion County Sheriff's Office, Ted Nichols and other friends and relatives.

William H. James

Ire Bethea, Cleveland Parker, Linda Parker, Cheryl Kendrick, Richard Ray James

Ted Nichols

Lachetta James, LC Stephenson Sr., Sonji Franklin, Loretta P. Jenkins, Whitfield Jenkins

William James and Stephanie Walker

T.J. and Shannon Wynn

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Narvella Haynes and Cynthia Graham

EVENTS

socially speaking

United Way Leadership Appreciation at Magnolia Art xChange PHOTOGRAPHY BY RALPH DEMILIO The United Way Leadership Appreciation event is held biannually as a thank you to donors who give at the leadership level. The event began at the Ocala Art Park where guests learned about the impact their dollars are having, then guests walked to Magnolia Art Xchange for an immersive experience including live art and music, craft cocktails and h'oeuvres.

Holly Yocum and Karla Grimsley

Joel Downing

Leslie Hammond and JEsse James

Lauren Debick Vianca Torres and Jessica Nisbett Fieldhouse

Jordan Shapot

Becky Sinn

Justin Alsedek

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | FEB 2021 |

61

PLAY

anthology — poetry in motion

You Are There

BY JERRY GLASSMAN

The sun is orange at sunset time, Blue and gray inter-woven like purple twine.

The day is put to sleep, but the night is born.

Time for everyone to sing ... come blow your horn!

Making love under the moonlight is out of sight, it will keep you happy night after night.

Stars glisten as you feel that glow, leaves whistle, while the wind will blow.

The sounds of the night is a language all its own, only frogs crickets and lovers can decipher its tone.

Can you feel it in the air?

Look around you ... everywhere.

To be one with the Universe and you are there.

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s, sories witch?

ces in Ocala!

THE PRINTERS

PLUS !

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519 NE 36th Ave. www.geminisalondayspa.com 352•817•9904

CON

Join us at the "Transformco Stables" for the very first public unveiling of the all-new Horse Fever 20/20 herd.

104.7

Saturday, February 13th from 10am to 4pm Transformco (old Kmart distribution center) 655 SW 52nd Ave, Ocala, FL, 34474

Significantly Socially Distanced

Try Us! www.classichitsocala.com www.facebook.com/classichitsocala

Music, Children’s Activities and Big Lee’s BBQ FEATURES

Admission is Free. Rain or shine!

08 Breaking New Ground

A public art project presented by:

12 Zombieland

PLEASE NOTE: FACE MASKS ARE REQUIRED FOR THIS EVENT.

18 Mummified

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | FEB 2021 |

26 Great Smokey Getaway

63

ELITE EQUESTRIAN

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Celebrating The Equestrian Lifestyle

We are America’s Favorite Equestrian Lifestyle Magazine, Published Since 2008.

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Elite Equestrian magazine is proud to be a strategic media partner with Ocala Magazine and sponsor of its equestrian feature.

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equine

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Everything Equine p66

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | FEB 2021 |

65

EQUINE

everything equine

Horses N Heroes The Love and Healing Power of the Horse is Everlasting

BY LOUISA BARTON,

S

tudies have shown that in the United States, as many as one in three households either love horses, want to own horses or would like some type of regular contact with horses. What is it about horses that we love so much and why is it that at some time in many little girls’ lives, the desire to meet a horse, touch

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a horse, ride a horse or even own their own horse, is so compelling? Unfortunately, considering the expenses associated with horse ownership, not all households can afford to buy and care for a horse. Riding lessons are a wonderful option for those who do not have the means to purchase and provide for a horse of their own and competing at low

level local shows can be affordable, rewarding and fun.

The love of a horse, the bond with a horse and the accomplishment of horse riding is priceless, however, horse ownership and care is not easy. There are early mornings and often late nights, regular feeding schedules, sometimes illnesses to deal with

Photos courtesy of Louisa Barton

Equine Initiative Director at the Ocala/Marion County Chamber and Economic Partnership, Farm Realtor and Host of the Horse Talk Show on the Sky 97.3

Mindy Nolan-Morrow, Executive Director

and always, lots of mucking! Many children are not necessarily aware of all the hard work associated with horse ownership. With time and financial constraints, there are many, even middle-class two income families, who cannot afford horses. For a single parent family, horse ownership or riding lessons may be virtually impossible.

Ocala is fortunate to be the home of the nonprofit Horses N Heroes of Marion County, Inc. Founded by Mindy Morrow in 1994, Horses N Heroes provides a free and unique equine learning and mentoring experience for young girls who come from

underprivileged families. Through bonding with the horses, girls gain self-esteem and learn about responsibility, teamwork, kind-heartedness, commitment and much more. The girls are taught all aspects of horsemanship including but not limited to riding, grooming, feeding and caring for the donated horses. Students also are given the opportunity, when finances allow, to show at local horse shows.

In addition to its mission of bringing horses and girls together, the program gives a second lease on life to donated horses.

Horses respond well to compassionate,

assertive behavior, but not to fear or aggression. This is a valuable teaching tool. Horses have been used successfully in therapy for years in a variety of programs, but the way that Horses N Heroes combines this bonding experience with learning to ride and incorporating the work ethic has been a life changing experience for many. Horses have a unique wisdom and they demand calm. For some of the girls who lack calmness at home, this program is the ultimate escape for healing, learning and growing.

With its mission to empower low-income, at-risk girls to foster leadership and teamwork skills while increasing self-esteem and encouraging respect for themselves and others through hands-on interaction with horses, Horses N Heroes is changing lives.

For over 25 years, Horses N Heroes has provided underprivileged, at-risk girls with an exceptional opportunity to realize their potential and experience a future with limitless possibilities. This does not come without a financial cost and donations are both needed and welcomed. The effect this program has had on so many girls is everlasting, as is the love of the horse.

More information on Horses N Heroes can be found at Horsesnheroes.com.

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | FEB 2021 |

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charity

American Heart Association AHA’s February Heart Month has special significance during COVID | BY CARLTON REESE

A

s the COVID-19 death toll in the United States has gone over 400,000 it’s easy to understand that the virus monopolizes the health concerns of most people. Where, then, does this leave organizations such as the American Heart Association, which rely on generous donations for their critical research but do not have a hand in virological pursuits?

For a little perspective, consider that each year heart disease and strokes account for around 655,000 deaths a year in this country.

In terms of battling COVID-19, the AHA most certainly plays a role and this should not be underplayed. As those with heart and obesity issues are especially vulnerable in this pandemic, the AHA’s public awareness programs take on significance nearly as great as its research. In this way, the AHA’s overall mission of reducing deaths due to heart disease and stroke is a perfect complement to the fight against COVID. “Back in March we thought we were dealing with a lung disease,” said Dr. Mitch

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Elkind, AHA president and a stroke neurologist at Columbia University. “It turns out it’s much more than that. It’s just that it gets into the body through the lungs by binding to an enzyme that is also present on the heart. The really scary thing is that it’s also located on the lining of the blood vessels that go throughout the body.

“For some people, the lung problems don’t even seem to be the major problem; it’s when it gets into the blood vessels that it causes trouble.”

In essence, the mission of the American Heart Association coincides with the mission of fighting the COVID pandemic.

The AHA is currently ramping up its research by establishing a $2.5 million rapid research fund to better understand COVID-19 and its interaction with cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases.

“I know COVID is such a divisive subject these days, but it’s wonderful that there really is research being done to figure out what this particular disease will do to the

body so that way medical professionals and individuals can be proactive,” said Kristina Donohue, Regional Director of the American Heart Association. “It’s such a new disease, that is where our organization is concerned – what this will look like for people down the road.”

Of critical concern, especially in regard to the AHA’s mission, are complications that may arise from COVID, such as myocarditis, an inflammation of the heart muscle that can lead to an increase in future heart failure.

Recent autopsies of COVID-19 patients identified infections in the hearts of patients who had not been diagnosed with cardiovascular issues while they were ill.

With heart issues related to the current pandemic, the timing of American Heart Month in February could not be better. Always a time used by the American Heart Association to aggressively promote overall heart wellness, the scope of the organization’s mission has certainly broadened.

Part of the awareness initiative is the

FACTS & FIGURES • Someone suffers a stroke in the U.S. once every 40 seconds • The AHA has funded more than $4.5 billion in research since 1949 • In 2017, strokes accounted for one of every 19 deaths in the U.S.

Go Red for Women movement which is designed to “increase women’s heart health awareness and serve as a catalyst for change to improve the lives of women globally.”

The initiative encourages people to wear red on National Wear Red Day Feb. 5. Apropos clothing can be purchased at goredforwomen.org with proceeds going toward the fight to end heart disease and stroke in women.

“The majority of research was mainly being focused on men,” Donohue said.

“Women were also suffering heart attacks but the symptoms were different and unidentified. We need to do a better job of helping women understand the warning signs. Often they are not aware of those warning signs.”

In addition to Go Red for Women, the AHA’s other core event is the Heart Walk, which in 2020 was a digital experience in Marion County. These two events raise money nationwide, but Donohue is quick to point out that our central Florida communities receive more than their fair share and even thrive on these funds.

“A lot of (money raised) goes into this bigger bucket of research,” Donohue said.

“But we are able to fund grants and share with the central Florida area. Historically, because of our diet in the southeast regions, heart disease is a significant issue.”

Part of the AHA’s expanded mission in the light of the COVID pandemic is making sure that care and prevention gains a more equitable foothold throughout society. This means allocating funds to people and areas that have long been at a disadvantage.

• In 2017, heart disease accounted for about 13 percent of all deaths in the U.S. • From 2013-2016, 57.1 percent of non-Hispanic black females and 60.1 percent of non-Hispanic black males had some form of cardiovascular disease

Sonya Nasser and Kristina Donohue

“We know that, especially with COVID, it’s not a level playing field,” Donohue said.

“Where you live, how much money you earn, family history – all those things factor into your cardiovascular care and your life expectancy. This past year has been a real eye opener, trying to figure out ways to facilitate

deeper conversations and go deeper than just our events.”

The Go Red for Women gala was moved to May 7 at the Circle Square Cultural Center and will feature a silent auction/ social hour from 6-7 p.m. then dinner and event program at 7 p.m. Dancing and entertainment are to immediately follow.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Anyone interested in the gala or joining the Go Red for Women team can visit marioncounty@heart.org or phone 727-563-8043.

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | FEB 2021 |

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Make Heart Health Part of Your Self-Care Routine FAMILY FEATURES

D

evoting a little time every day to care for yourself can go a long way toward protecting the health of your heart. Simple self-care, such as taking a moment to de-stress, giving yourself time to move more, preparing healthier meals and not cheating on sleep, can all benefit your heart.

Because heart disease is largely preventable, focusing on improving your heart health is important. Heart disease is a leading cause of death for women and men in the United States, and many Americans remain at risk, according to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI).

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People with poor cardiovascular health are also at increased risk of severe illness from COVID-19.

“Studies show self-care routines, such as taking a daily walk and keeping doctor’s appointments, help us keep our blood pressure in the healthy range and reduce our risk of heart disease and stroke,” said David Goff, M.D., NHLBI’s director of cardiovascular sciences.

It may be easier than you think to “put your heart” into your daily routine. Each Sunday, look at your week’s schedule and carve out 30 minutes for heart-healthy practices. Take an online yoga class, prepare a

heart-healthy recipe, schedule your bedtime to get at least seven hours of sleep or make a medication checklist. Then seek out support from others to help you stick to your goals.

Consider these self-care tips to try each day to make your heart a priority:

SELF-CARE SUNDAY

Find a moment of serenity every Sunday.

Spend some quality time on yourself.

MINDFUL MONDAY

Be mindful about your health and regularly monitor your blood pressure or blood sugar if needed. Keep an eye on your weight to

Whatever you do, find a way to spend some quality time on yourself.

make sure it stays within or moves toward a healthy range.

TASTY TUESDAY

Choose how you want to approach eating healthier. Start small by pepping your meals with a fresh herb or spice as a salt substitute.

Get adventurous and prepare a simple, new, heart-healthy recipe. Or go big by trying a different way of eating, such as the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) eating plan, which is scientifically proven to lower blood pressure. DASH is flexible and balanced, and it includes plenty of fruits and vegetables, fish, poultry, lean meats, beans, nuts, whole grains and low-fat dairy products.

WELLNESS WEDNESDAY

Don’t waffle on your wellness. Move more,

eat a fruit or vegetable you’ve never tried, make a plan to quit smoking or vaping or learn the signs of a heart attack or stroke.

You could be having a heart attack if you have chest and upper body pain or discomfort, shortness of breath, cold sweats, nausea or lightheadedness. You might be having a stroke if you experience numbness in the face, arm or leg; confusion; trouble talking or seeing; dizziness; or a severe headache.

TREAT YOURSELF THURSDAY

Treats can be healthy. Try making a dessert with fresh fruit and yogurt. Then stretch your imagination beyond food. Host a family dance party, take a few minutes to sit and meditate, go for a long walk or watch a funny show. Whatever you do, find a way to spend some quality time on yourself.

FOLLOW FRIDAY

Follow inspiring people and pages on social media, or text a friend to help you stick to

your self-care goals. Remember to take care of your mental health, too. Two of the main hurdles to self-care are depression and a lack of confidence, according to a study published in the “Journal of the American Heart Association.” If your mental health is taking a toll, take action to show your heart some love.

Reach out to family and friends for support, or talk to a qualified mental health provider.

SELFIE SATURDAY

Inspire others to take care of their hearts.

Talk about your self-care routine with loved ones or share a selfie on social media. Having social support and personal networks can make it easier to get regular physical activity, eat nutritious foods, reach a healthy weight and quit smoking.

Learn more about heart health and heart-healthy activities in your community, and see what others are doing for their heart health, at nhlbi.nih.gov/ourhearts or follow #OurHearts on social media.

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state of the city

A Celebration of Black History BY: ASHLEY DOBBS,

MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER, CITY OF OCALA

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Trail and featured in the Florida Association of Public Art Professionals’ October 2020 News Brief. The Levitt Foundation Community Bridge Grant provided the opportunity to complete, print and distribute an educational guide that could be incorporated into the Marion County Public Schools (MCPS) curriculum. The guide meets state of Florida standards under social studies, music, and visual arts for grades K-12. Printed copies will be distributed across 50 school media centers, as recommended by the MCPS African-American History Community advisory team.

Legacy Park is located on the southwest side of the city and provides walking trails and greenspace within the city, while reminding residents about leaders who have shaped the community. The appointed Governor’s

West Ocala Neighborhood Revitalization Council subcommittee is responsible for submission and selection of nominees for inclusion on the Legacy Walk. The Legacy Walk features commemorative stones for each nominee, so their contributions can be memorialized for generations to come. Visitors to the park can view the tiles along the pathways, while enjoying the serene setting.

Future community endeavors include the Heritage Trail project that highlights past and future community leaders who have contributed to Ocala. Through an artistic component, it will honor prominent figures who have contributed to our city through education, medical professions, business growth, volunteerism, and a variety of other notable contributions.

As we approach a time of growth and renewal as a nation, we must not let the history and achievements made by black leaders within our community fall by the wayside.

Now is the time to celebrate those who have helped define what it means to be a part of this city.

Photo courtesy of the City of Ocala

T

he City of Ocala has a rich, diverse history that often goes unrecognized. As we celebrate Black History month across the nation, we must identify the historical background within our own community. Ocala is a community filled with leaders and heroes that have defined the growth and progress which have shaped our present-day city. There are many public spaces dedicated to those who have defined greatness within the black community, providing educational and inspirational moments for future generations to appreciate where we have been and where we are going.

Located at Webb Field in West Ocala, the Black History mural provides a visual representation of one of Ocala’s oldest neighborhoods; it also provides a timeline of historical moments. Community support was a crucial element to the success of the project.

The mural was originally completed in 2005 through a partnership between Marion Cultural Alliance, College of Central Florida and seven artists: Michele Faulconer, Valerie Fjalstad, Bob Hazelden, Leonard Palmer, Jillian Ramsammy, Trevor Ramsammy, and Robert Williams. In 2019, the Ocala Black History Mural was restored as part of the Levitt AMP Ocala Music Series, a 10-week grant-funded music series also supported through the Mortimer and Mimi Levitt Foundation, which takes place at Webb Field each April through June.

Since restoration was completed, the mural has been registered on the Florida Mural

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state of the county

Keep Your Heart Healthy in Marion County’s Parks

BY ALEX AUBUCHON

T

his month is all about hearts –but not only the candied or chocolatey kind.

It’s also American Heart Month, when we recognize the importance of a healthy heart and the risks of heart disease.

Heart disease is the leading cause of mortality in the U.S. and also here in Marion County, responsible for more than 27% of all deaths in the county in 2019.

One of the best ways to prevent heart disease is maintaining a healthy weight and getting at least two and a half hours of cardiovascular exercise a week.

With days getting longer and weather getting milder, what better way to get your body moving and your heart pumping than exploring the great outdoors in Marion County’s beautiful parks?

The Marion County Parks and Recreation Department operates 48 parks throughout the county, offering a wide variety of recreational activities to keep you healthy and active. Here are a few highlights:

BASELINE ROAD TRAILHEAD This park, trail system and trailhead area is part of the Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway.

It was once slated to be part of the Cross Florida Barge Canal project as late as the 1970s, and remnant digging from the project can be seen where a 24-hole disc golf course currently sits at the northern end of a 5-mile paved trail loop.

The area is dog-friendly and features walking, hiking and bicycle trails, a playground and many other amenities.

KP HOLE® PARK This beautiful facility on the Rainbow River was first established as a boys retreat in the early 1920s and has been owned by Marion County since 1953.

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Tubing season doesn’t begin until April, but canoe, kayak and paddleboard rentals are available at the park all year. Rent a paddle craft by 12:45 p.m. and enjoy a day on one of the most beautiful waterways in America.

CARNEY ISLAND RECREATION & CONSERVATION AREA This park is located between Lake Weir and Little Lake Weir features 680 acres of recreation opportunities. Several trails loop through the lower half of the site providing great hiking, biking and wildlife viewing.

There is a good chance of seeing wild turkeys, deer and a very diverse bird population, particularly in the early morning and dusk hours. Wayside benches and shelters give the trail users a nice place to stop and relax while taking it all in.

SILVER SPRINGS CONSERVATION AREA This 330-acre tract of land was purchased by the Florida Department of Environmental Proctection’s Bureau of Land Acquisition in 2005.

It is a massive, undeveloped tract adjacent to the world-renowned Silver Springs, and was

acquired to protect the spring and Floridan Aquifer from damage and pollution.

The property features a network of hiking trails where you can observe three distinct Florida biomes – sandhill, upland mixed forest and wet prairie – each with their own unique plants and wildlife.

For a full list of parks operated by Marion County’s Parks and Recreation Department, hours of operation, permits, passes and applications, or for any additional information, visit our website at MarionCountyFL. org/Parks or call our Parks and Recreation Department at 352-671-8560.

Get out and take advantage of all the wonderful resources these facilities have to offer – after all, it’s a great day in Marion County!

Alex AuBuchon is the Public Information Officer for the Marion County Board of Commissioners.

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Kiwanis

Korner Kiwanis of Ocala Celebrates the New Year, 2021 Kiwanis of Ocala hosted several honored guest speakers.

Brad Rogers

State Attorney, Bill Gladson

Attorney Jim Phillips, State Attorney Bill Gladson and President Joe Voge

State Attorney, Bill Gladson & Judge Bob Landt

Chick-fil-A Owner Jeromy Williams

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

FOR MORE INFORMATION

B

rad Rogers, longtime editor and award-winning published writer and author, spoke on changes and current happenings within our community. Brad has been serving Ocala and Marion County for most of his adult life and on many boards that bless and help our less fortunate. Being the difference is who Brad is.

Bill Gladson, elected as state attorney in November 2020, graced the members with his presence and shared many changes and an overview of what we can expect in the new year ahead, including how the virus has affected operations.

Bill began his service above self many years ago as a former law enforcement officer and a career prosecutor for over 20 years. As our State Attorney, Bill leads a team of over 250 employees, serving the counties of Marion, Lake, Hernando, Citrus and Sumter, an area encompassing more than 1.2 million people.

Chick-fil-A owner, Jeromy Williams, spoke about the new changes at Chick-fil-A on College Road, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. He has owned the restaurant in Ocala for over 16 years and his family are true believers in giving back to the community and being the blessing to others in need. One of those ways he and his wife, Amanda, help others is by actively providing internships and jobs through helping College of Central Florida students and speaking to business classes with motivational and inspirational words of wisdom in owning your own business or franchise.

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

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Rotary

Circle

Just Ducky!

Save the date for the Marion Rotary Duck Derby on Saturday, February 13th 2021 @Discovery Center at Tuscawilla Park Saturday, Febr uar y 13th 2021

Discove Center Tuscawi Par k

The Derby will benefit Rotary nonprofits and the Discovery Center.

Sponsorship opportunities include:

DRAKE—$5,000

You will be recognized as an Elite Duck Sponsor at the event with your logo prominently displayed on all marketing materials, T-shirts, event banners as well as MarionDuckDerby.com which will include a link to your company’s website. Your company name and logo will also be displayed on all “You Got Ducked” yard signs.

You will be recognized as an Elite Duck Sponsor at the event with your logo promine DUCKLING—$1,500 displayed on all marketing materials, T-shirts, event banners as well as MarionDuckDerby.c You will be recognized as a Duckling Sponsor at the event and which will include listed on all marketing materials, T-shirts, event banners as well as a link to your company’s website. Your company name and logo will also displayed on all “You Got Ducked” yard signs.

MarionDuckDerby.com which will include a link to your company’s

DRAKE—$5,000

DUCKLING—$1,500

website. You will also have the ability to put marketing literature at the sponsor table the day of the event.

You will be recognized as a Duckling Sponsor at the event and listed on all marketing mater QUACKER—$1,000 T-shirts, event banners as well as MarionDuckDerby.com which will include a link to y You will be recognized as a Quacker Duck Sponsor at the event company’s website. You will also have the ability to put marketing literature at the spon and listed on T-shirts, the sponsor board, adoption papers, and table the day of the event. social media.

PADDLER—$500

QUACKER—$1,000

Logo displayed on social media and adoption papers. Name You will be recognized as a Quacker Duck Sponsor at the event and listed on T-shirts, recognized on sponsor board. sponsor board, adoption papers, and social media.

PADDLER—$500 For more information visit MarionDuckDerby.org

Logo displayed on social media and adoption papers. Name recognized on sponsor board.

For more infor mation visit MarionDuckDerby.org

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looking back

Gerig Field

Professional baseball once had a home in Ocala

BY CARLTON REESE WITH THE HISTORIC OCALA PRESERVATION SOCIETY

O

cala’s equine history is certainly well-chronicled as is the town’s affinity for high school football and golf. Somewhere along the line, the sport of baseball stepped to the side while the track, gridiron and links took over as the town’s sports staples.

There was a time, however, just like the rest of the country, when baseball was the biggest game in town and its home was Gerig Field. Located at what is now the Martin Luther King, Jr., Recreational Complex, Gerig Field hosted professional baseball for many years up to the early 1970s and saw the likes of Carl Yastrzemski trod its hallowed grounds.

Named for former Ocala Mayor John Jacob Gerig who as a big baseball fan was instrumental in securing necessary funding for the project, Gerig Field was built in 1936 at a cost of around $100,000 as part of the Works Progress Administration during the Great Depression. In those days, Gerig Field was a state-of-the-art baseball stadium that hoped to eventually attract a minor league franchise.

In 1939, the Milwaukee Brewers of the American Association made Gerig Field its home for spring training and would share the

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facility in 1940 and 1941 with the Tulsa Oilers, a Texas League affiliate of the Chicago Cubs.

When World War II started, both the Brewers and Oilers stopped coming to Gerig.

The year 1940 also coincided with the first professional team to play a full schedule at Gerig. The Ocala Yearlings played as a member of the Class D Florida State League and struggled to losing seasons in their only two years of existence. Of note is that the 1940 team was managed by Wilbur Good, who played outfield 11 seasons in the Major Leagues’ “Deadball” era from 19081918. In the middle of the 1940 season and sporting a 21-26 record, Good was relieved of his position “because of an economy rule adopted by the club” according to the Tampa Tribune. In other words, the team could not afford to pay a Major League veteran of his stature.

With the demise of the Yearlings and World War II stopping any organized play at Gerig Field, it would not be until 1948 that baseball would return. The Southern Association’s Birmingham Barons, an affiliate of the Boston Red Sox, would make

Current site of old Greg Field

Gerig its spring training home.

In 1958 the Red Sox would bring in affiliates Memphis Chicks, Allentown Red Sox, Raleigh Capitals, Waterloo Hawks and Corning Red Sox to train at Gerig with the Barons, which had become a New York Yankees affiliate in 1953.

In 1959, the Barons would cease training at Gerig, but the Red Sox relationship with Ocala would last until 1971 when the Red Sox moved its entire minor league operation to Winter Haven. Along the way, future Hall of Famer Yastrzemski trained at Gerig as a member of the Capitals in 1958.

After 1971, Gerig would no longer host professional baseball with semi-pro teams and tournaments playing there sporadically.

In 1993, the stadium structure which had become not only outdated but structurally weak was demolished. Today, Pinkney Woodbury Field exists there while parts of the original limerock wall still stand.

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