Ocala Magazine August 2019

OM OC A L A M AGAZ INE

AUG 2019

IVE R OF F WINNFELORIDA 2019 ZINE MAGACIATION ASSO DS AWAR

2019 Cover Model Contest Finalists Berry Cool

Easy, icy summertime delights

Clicktivism

Saving the environment in the digital age

A Life of

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

Ocala’s City Magazine Since 1980 | $5.95

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OM

OCALA MAGAZINE

2019 Florida Magazine Association Charlie Awards

GENERAL EXCELLENCE

Best Redesign

All Consumer | Bronze Award | 2019 Ocala Magazine

WRITING EXCELLENCE

Best Writing: Public Service Coverage Consumer: Circulation Under 20,000 Bronze Award | For Your Service

DESIGN EXCELLENCE

Best Photography: Single Feature Image All Consumer | Charlie Award | Yoga in Bar

DESIGN EXCELLENCE

Best Design: Use of Photography

Consumer: Circulation Under 20,000 | Silver Award | Better Than The Best, Unbridled

GENERAL EXCELLENCE

Best Advertorial: Story or Section

All Consumer | Bronze Award | Vintage Industrial, Ivy on the Square

OM

CONTENTS AUGUST • 2019 FEATURES 14

Small Steps Big Impact Easy ways to live eco-friendly.

20 Clicktivism

Social Media and the war on plastics.

26

Local Beauty

40

A Life of Beauty

48

Protecting Our Children

It’s time to vote for your favorite cover model.

Catching up with Kimberly Leemans, our first cover model winner.

Preparing for school safety in Marion County.

DEPARTMENTS 10 12

Publisher’s Letter From the Mayor

53 LIVE 54 Everything Equine 56 State of the City 57 State of the County 58 Charity Spotlight- Brothers Keeper Photo by Fiorella Occhipinti

61 EAT 62 Berry Cool- Icy Treats That are Simple to Make

66 Ivy on the Square

ON THE COVER

Kimberly Leemans

Photograph by Fiorella Occhipinti

OM O C A L A MAG A ZI N E

AUG 2019

2019 Cover Model Contest Finalists Berry Cool

Easy, icy summertime delights

Clicktivism

Saving the environment in the digital age

A Life of

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

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Ocala’s City Magazine Since 1980 | $5.95

73 PLAY 74 Experience Ocala Events Calendar 76 Local Music Scene: Caly Bryan & Megan Garland 80 Socially Speaking 87 ETCETERA 88 Health Journal 94 Scoop 96 Looking Back

BE SAFE AND PREPARED FOR THIS

HURRICANE SEASON

JUNE 1 - NOV. 30

• Make sure all contact information is current on your account. Providing Ocala Electric Utility with an up-to-date phone number will allow you to report your power outage easier and faster.

• To view a real-time map of current outages, visit severeweather.ocalafl.org • To report a power outage in your area, visit myusage.com, use myusage mobile app or call 352-351-6666.

• If your power is restored while crews are still working in the area, please leave a porch light or externally visible light on so they can see that you have power.

• Generators should not be plugged directly into a home’s main electrical system. This could potentially send an electrical charge back to the power grid, which could create an electrocution hazard for utility workers.

• Please do not report an outage more than once.

• Generators should be set up outside the home in a well-ventilated area. Individual appliances can be plugged directly into the generator.

• For real-time updates and outage information during a storm, please follow Ocala Electric Utility on Facebook.

• Visit severeweather.ocalafl.org to learn more about storm preparation and how to keep your family safe.

@OEUinfo /OcalaElectricUtility www.ocalaelectric.org | 352.629.2489

OM Volume 39, Issue 2

AUGUST 2019

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

Philip Glassman, CCIM | Publisher philip@ocalamagazine.com

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

EDITORIAL Melissa Deskovic | Managing Editor melissa@ocalamagazine.com

ART Jessi Miller | Creative Director jessi@ocalamagazine.com

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

Joshua Jacobs | Graphic Designer joshua@ocalamagazine.com

CONTRIBUTORS Jade Brown | Writer Carey David | Writer Mayor Kent Guinn | Columnist Ashley Lopez | Writer City of Ocala and Marion County

Sharon Raye | Copy Editor Robin Fannon | Food/Lifestyle Editor

PHOTOGRAPHY Ralph Demilio | Photographer The Creative Pretzel | Photographer

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

Technology

E OF FIVA R E N N WI FLORIID NE 2019 A M GATZION CIA DS ASSOA WAR

Ilia Laboy | Production Assistant Ross Anthony | Director of Distribution

EDITORIAL OR ADVERTISING INQUIRIES 352.622-2995

www.ocalamagazine.com

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

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COPYRIGHT ALL contents copyrighted 2019 by Ocala Magazine Publications . All rights reserved.

Reproduction or use of editorial or advertising content in any manner without written permission is strictly prohibited.

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COMING JANUARY 2020

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

A state-of-the-art edition showcasing our great city of Ocala and Marion County.

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

LETTERS

from the publisher

Building Community IN THE TIME THAT I’VE BEEN THE PUBLISHER AT OM, I am truly proud of the work that my team has done. The transition of Ocala Magazine to OM is something that we have put time and effort into in hopes that we can bring Ocala residents the very best content that is a reflection of who we are as a community. This past month my team and I were invited down to the Florida Magazine Associations annual conference where we were awarded five awards in five different categories ranging from our use of photography to our editorial content. This organization is an honored institution that has been around for more than 30 years so to be chosen by their panel of judges is truly an honor.

I HAVE BUILT MANY BUSINESSES OVER THE YEARS and one of the most important things is to partner with those who can help you take your vision and bring it to life. Once you have succeeded it’s also just as important to remember to give back.

One of the purposes of OM is to help spotlight the good that is being done in our community. To give a platform for those who are quietly and tirelessly work to help make our community a better place.

ONE SUCH ORGANIZATION IS HABITAT FOR HUMANITY. In the entirety of my career, they have been constant. Everywhere I go I see the benefit of their work. Whether it’s their work with the Ocala Civic Theatre, their community work with the Kiwanis Club, building houses for lower-income families or their work with the homeless; they are truly a part of the foundation of this community. The great thing is the about those that want to help out is that while it’s always great for them to have volunteers to help build houses there are many other ways to help. They are always in need of safety equipment for their volunteers and funds to help them continue to reach their goals.

PHILIP GLASSMAN, PUBLISHER

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David L. Layman and Joanne Black of Habitat for Humanity

Photo by Ilia Laboy

AS WE HEAD INTO AUGUST I AM EXCITED at what we have planned. In this months edition, we are featuring the finalists for our local cover model search. Check out their feature and then head over to facebook.com/OcalaMagazine to vote for your favorite There are a lot of good things in the works at OM, and I cannot wait to share them with you. So watch for our latest editions, follow us online at ocalamagazine. com, and let’s continue to work together in building our community, and helping each other.

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LETTERS

MAYOR

from the

Ocala’s Great Outdoors STORY AND PHOTOS BY MAYOR KENT GUINN

I

have had the wonderful privilege of serving the Ocala community as Mayor for many years. During this time I have witnessed Ocala go through many changes, and just like any other city we have had our ups and downs but through all of it one thing has remained the same; Ocala is a great place to live. My family has roots in this community that stretch all the way back to 1850. I am a 5th generation Ocala resident and take pride in that. As a resident, I am always trying to do my part to keep Ocala looking beautiful and as Mayor, I (along with an amazing team of people) have helped to implement programs that have revitalized not only our city but our parks.

It’s our goal that every resident in Ocala is able to enjoy a day at one of our many parks. This is why in 2013 we took inventory of our parks and made plans to ensure that all of our parks are up to ADA standards. This year the city also saw the return of the Levitt Amp Music Series at Webb Field.

Partnering with the Marion County Cultural Alliance and funded with a grant from the Levitt Foundation the Levitt Amp Music Series is a family-friendly event that families can attend and enjoy live music, food and the great outdoors. A new skate park has been added and welcomed with open arms. This we are particularly proud of as now kids have a place to go that is safe, engaging and fun.

Our downtown area is growing by the day with more local shops, a new parking garage, restaurants, and a theatre it’s a great place for residents to mix and mingle. Our First Friday Artwalks are another great family-friendly event that is open to the public. Residents showcasing their creativity, talking with other residents and building that down-home vibe that Ocala has become known for.

There is truly nothing better for me than to be out with my wife, strolling around our city and to see families enjoying our parks or playing with their dogs in the dog parks. As a lifetime dog lover, I know how important it is to be able to take your pet with you when you go out. That is why we are working on ways to make Ocala a more pet friendly city. I want to encourage everyone to get out and enjoy all that this city has to offer. These programs

Mayor Kent Guinn

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OM

OCALA MAGAZINE PRESENTS

2019 October 10

SAVE THE DATE SPONSORED BY

GET INVOLVED TO BE A SPONSOR OR VENDOR AT OCALA MAGAZINE’S 5TH ANNUAL CELEBRATION OF NURSES EVENT, CALL 352.622.2995 EXT 303 APR 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

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Big

Small Steps,

Impact How taking small, easy steps in our every day lives can create a more sustainable world for future generations.

BY JADE BROWN

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E

very decision we make, every action (or inaction) we implement, is shaping our generation’s legacy.

Sustainable living and preservation of earth’s natural resources is something we can no longer ignore. Doing so only ensures that we will leave future generations with an inheritance of polluted oceans, unbreathable air, and overflowing landfills. Organic living may sound complicated and overly expensive, but there are small steps you can take that are simple and relatively low cost.

“Reduce, Reuse, Recycle” is an age-old saying that rings true now more than ever.

Living in Ocala, the beauty that nature has to offer is around every corner. From natural springs to canopy covered roads, our city is a beautiful place that deserves preservation. So let’s look at some small daily decisions that can become second nature and overall make a big difference.

GO PAPERLESS Going paperless is an easy first step to tackle.

Gone is the need for overflowing mailboxes as many businesses now offer incentivized paperless billing. To discourage clients from using more paper than necessary, some companies have started charging customers for paper statements. When it comes to the unnecessary paper billing, opt to have it emailed instead. Americans use roughly 85 million tons of paper every year. So for the paper items that find their way into your homes, make sure to toss it into the recycle bin.

CLOTHING CYCLES One topic that has risen to the forefront in recent months is that of clothing waste.

Every year 15 million tons of textile waste hit our landfills. While some fibers can be recycled, synthetic fibers can take hundreds of years to decompose. Swapping and bor-

AUG 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

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rowing is an eco-friendly way to recycle your used clothing. This trend of thrift store shopping has found an uncommon ally in the Hollywood elite. Celebrities are taking to social media to rally for people to shop at second-hand stores, or to donate their clothing to local charities that help those in need.

Here in Ocala there are many places that accept clothing donations. The Interfaith Thrift Store, Hospice Thrift Stores and a wide variety of smaller, locally-owned stores can be found with a quick online search.

CLEANER CLEANING As you go through your home searching for clothes to donate, take a look at your cleaning supplies. The cleaning products we use daily cause significant damage to our area.

The toxins in household cleaners, when dumped down the drain can leech into our soil and water supplies. Thankfully there is a great alternative; eco-friendly household cleaners are safe, non-toxic, and come in sustainable packaging. By switching your detergents, you can improve your homes air quality, reduce skin and eye irritation, and respiratory infections. Want an even less ex-

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pensive option? Try using basic items such as baking soda, vinegar, lemon, or olive oil.

Many of these items are present in any pantry, and with a little research, they can prove cost-effective and leave you with an equally clean house without the harmful chemicals.

It also helps to reduce the plastic waste of purchasing plastic cleaning bottles every month.

THE PLASTIC PLAGUE If you’ve been on any social media outlet, recently chances are someone has posted content regarding plastic waste. This protest goes for everything from cleaning supplies to water bottles. Choosing to say no to plastic water bottles can dramatically reduce plastic waste. Plastic can take centuries to break down, meaning those toxins will live in our water supply for ages. One way to ensure your family gets clean healthy water is through a quality water filtration system.

Installing water filters is a low cost and efficient ways to enjoy clean, fresh tap water at home. If you’re on the go, Agapanthus in Downtown Ocala offers Swig Bottles. These aluminum water bottles are easily portable and hold hot or cold temperatures for up to

24 hrs. They are perfect for those of us who find ourselves in line for coffee on our morning commute. Another added benefit, Starbucks offers the ability to use their reusable cups and have incentivized usage by offering discounts throughout the year. Carrying stainless steel straws are also a small change that makes a significant impact. The earth and the sea turtles thank you.

LOCALLY DELICIOUS Every Saturday, rain or shine, from 9 am to 2 pm Downtown Ocala hosts a local vendor Farmer’s Market. Everything from fresh seafood, honey, baked goods, fresh produce, and gluten-free snacks are available from a variety of different vendors. If farmer’s markets are not your thing, Mindful Foodies, run by Victoria Hall and Johnathan Keller, offers fresh and seasonal meals available for pickup.

New menus are available every Wednesday, and these meals are perfect serving sizes to fill you up and reduce food waste. Not only could

Sustainability under a

Big Hammock There are some local small businesses doing what they can to reduce their footprint. One such company is Big Hammock Brewery. Using easily recyclable sustainable materials they are helping to the cycle of single use plastics that have become a problem in our society.

this be a time saver for a busy family, but these meals are healthy, delicious, and keep money in the local economy. Eating organic and local foods and choosing to reduce meat and dairy can considerably reduce our carbon footprint.

By not adding to the current rate of greenhouse gas emissions, land use, water pollution, and air pollution that is is a result of farming these animals and products.

All of these small steps yield big impact.

So buy less, choose local, reduce and recycle.

Together we can leave the next generations with a more sustainable future.

AUG 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

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Clicktivism The Trend of Conservationâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; Saving the Environment in the Digital Age

BY MELISSA DESKOVIC

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M

iles away from any computer, tablet, or cell phone, the ocean is calm and peaceful. Marine life flows with ease, and the only soundtrack is nature itself. It’s a beautiful picture. One that propels people all over the globe to seek out the shores of its beaches, looking to experience the paradise of the world around them. Yet the very electronics keeping everyone tethered to the chaos of their lives, the ones that they so often strive to get away from, may very well be the devices that help save it.

Oceans are central to existence. Without them, the ecosystem would be thrust into a chaos that would eventually lead to the demise of the planet. It sounds extreme, apocalyptic almost, but the drama of the situation is solidified in scientific fact. Without our oceans, the rain would stop-or at the very least be an extremely rare occurrence-the topography of our world would morph from lush greenery to a giant barren desert. For Floridians who suffer through torrential rainstorms on a daily basis, the idea of no rain sounds like a vacation, but the outlook of life without oceans is grim at best.

Oceans are the great regulators of the planet, keeping temperatures around the globe in check and consistently feeding water to the skies. Humanity would survive, but only for a short time. Sustained only by melting icecaps and underground aquifers and even then these resources would be limited. Eventually, due to the rising surface temperatures, spontaneous fires would break out and all manner of flora and fauna would die off. With the lack of fresh carbon, the amount of breathable air would di-

...if we change nothing-if we keep going as is-then by the year 2050 there will be more plastic in the ocean than fish.

minish, eventually stopping all human life on earth. There is a great balance to be kept, and at the heart of this balance is water.

With all of this in mind, we have to ask, why does society seem to balk at the conversation of protecting the oceans? Is it the age-old tale of ‘perception is reality?’ Does humanity have a gross misunderstanding that because there is water on the planet it must be useable?

In 2017 the United Nations conducted a study showing that if we change nothing-if we keep going as is-then by the year 2050 there will be more plastic in the ocean than fish. The longer we ignore the problem the closer we are to the edge of an issue that within our lifetime, may render itself unfixable. Humanity desperately

needs to move away from the ‘out of sight out of mind’ mentality as this is a problem that affects everyone on a global and local scale. The plastics in the ocean are seeping into every aspect of our daily lives. Without being too heavyhanded on the ocean analogies, our polluted oceans are a tidal wave of a problem approaching a society

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who has its back turned.

The issue of ocean pollution is not a new one; it's one that has been growing for generations. In the 1960s, plastic was touted as the item to make life simpler. It was reusable, durable, and cheaper to manufacture than other options. As consumers began to purchase the product in masses, manufactures found more ways to use it. Soon, single-use products started hitting shelves. Plastic bags, water bottles, single-use take out containers. This is where the problem worsened. Single-use plastics are everywhere; what we didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t account for was it reaching the deepest depths of our oceans.

The internet is packed with videos concerning what scientists have dubbed The Great Pacific Garbage Patch. According to SmithsonianMag.com, the Great Pacific Garbage Patch contains 79,000 metric tons of plastic. Having a pile of toxins of this magnitude in the ocean

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is a disturbing thought, however, the Great Pacific Garbage Patch is not alone. Conservation. org reports that there are 5 total garbage patches floating around with the largest of its kind being the Great Pacific Garbage Patch. These plastics are seeping noxious chemicals into our oceans, and as they are consumed by marine life-then the marine life is consumed by humans -the

transfer of contaminants becomes cyclical.

Living in Marion County we are surrounded by water. Driving east, west, or south for a few hours and you will find yourself at a beach. This doesn't take into account the many lakes, rivers, streams, and natural waterways in between. Water is a way of life in Florida; itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s one of the perks of living in paradise, but with-

One of the best attributes of social media is not just showcasing those who are doing great things but in putting pressure on larger companies and politicians to change the policies and procedures that are causing the issues.

out people taking action to keep our environment clean that paradise can quickly turn into an unlivable situation. Thankfully there are those who are committed to finding a solution.

In an age of constant communication where life is viewed through the scope of a sixinch screen, our ecosystem has found an unlikely ally in social media. One of the greatest challenges of environmentalists has been the lack of education to the masses. It’s not that the information wasn’t there, it’s that getting the word out to everyone on a mass scale was difficult and costly. Now, thanks to the advances in technology, we live in a world where dispersing information is the least of our problems. As the years go on, more attention is being paid to our sustainability simply because more people are talking about it, and the one place they are communicating is on social media.

Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat, and the myriad of other networks have taken the conversation to a new level. Marketwatch reported in 2018 that the average adult spends more than 11 hours a day staring at a screen. We are consuming information at a rapid rate, and it has given voice to a whole audience of people who are ready to lead the charge for environmental change.

This movement of ‘clicktivism’ is often criticized as a copout. There are some who feel it’s merely complaining disguised as activism. Keyboard warriors who would rather talk on a social platform rather than put action behind the ideals. Yet, no real change begins without con-

versation. One of the best attributes of social media is not just showcasing those who are doing great things but in putting pressure on larger companies and politicians to change the policies and procedures that are causing the issues.

The Institute for Humane Education reported that “the main reason teens volunteered was because their friends were doing it.” So while there are always negative effects of peer pressure, environmental change is one area where the social pressure can be a good thing. Time Magazine reporter Sophia Rosenbaum reported how a simple video by marine biologist Christine Figgener showing a turtle with a straw stuck through its nose went viral virtually overnight, and within 48 hours the internet was awash with social media influencers encouraging their followers to do away with plastic. This action of ‘clicktavism’ put pressure on corporations who mass amounts of single-serve plastic to reduce their usage and do away with their practices. Starbucks was the first mega-corporation to announce its alignment with this ideal. Shortly after many other companies started following suit including American Airlines, Disney, Hyatt, and many others.

Unfortunately, our conservation efforts are far from being over, and the cleanup of the Giant Pacific Garbage Patch proves difficult.

“the main reason teens volunteered was because their friends were doing it.”

With water currents constantly shifting and the continued flow of plastics into our ocean, it may take some time before this problem is solved. The system isn’t perfect, and it may take decades for society to implement these changes on a mass scale, but every step leads towards a common goal. For this very reason, we cannot discount the efforts that are being made every day.

To dismiss the power of conversation on social media is to deny the power of dialogue, regardless of its medium. Communication always has been, and always will be, the catalyst for change in an ever-evolving society. There is no denying that social media can be an exhausting place filed with the white noise of the day. We can grow weary of the constant bombardment of news, but there is a side of social networks that can be used for the betterment of society, and that is where we need to place our focus. So let’s ‘look for the helpers,’ and let’s join together to keep the conversation going.

AUG 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

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Beautiful Finalists We proudly showcase Ocala Magazine's 2019 cover model finalists â&#x20AC;&#x201D; and hand their fate over to you, dear reader. Vote for your favorite(s) on our Facbook page by midnight, August 12th, and watch for the winner on September's cover.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY RALPH DEMILIO

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S a ophi

Arrington

Shot on location at with clothing and accessories provided by Ivy on the Square

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a s r DeFrisbyi e

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c a R hel Gooden

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r n KaLambi

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Mecca

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e n a r Ch s

n i a Mitchell

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Mitchell

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d Ja en Tripodi

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o M rgan Zack

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Introducing new granite marker signs located alongside sidewalks offering a glimpse into Ocala’s past

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.

The signs will include the year the home was built and the architectural style as well as other historical information. An app for smart phone users named OnCell will allow the downloading of images, historical text, and a google map locator.

“This endeavor will assist in preserving Ocala’s extensive history using 21st Century technology,” states Pamela Stafford.

The granite markers and signage are being offered at a modest cost to the residents who live in the Ocala Historic District, Tuscawilla District, West Ocala, and to business owners in the Downtown business district.

“We are thrilled that this project will encourage walking tours and lead to a greater awareness of local history” states Brian Stoothoff, a HOPS board member who is spearheading the project.

“This is an awesome project that makes Ocala’s history come alive” adds Pamela Stafford.

To order a sign or obtain more information, please contact HOPS by calling (352)351-1861, or by email: Hops_admin@HistoricOcala.org

2019 Historic Ocala Preservation Society Board Members Pamela Stafford — President Richard Perry — Vice President Dennis Phillips — Treasurer Brian Stoothoff — Secretary Linda Anker Leon Geller Jarl Hagood Peg Harding R.J. Jenkins Lela Kerley Caryl Lucas Penny Miller Suzanne Thomas Diana Williams Link Wilson

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

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Beau

A Life of 40

| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | AUG 2019

I

auty

BY MELISSA DESKOVIC

PHOTOGRAPHY BY FIORELLA OCCHIPINTI

From local cover model to fashion industry executive, Kimberly Leemans looks back at her extraordinary journey and gives advice to Ocala Magazine's 2019 cover hopefuls.

t’s been over a decade since Ocala Magazine’s first cover model contest and as we look at yet another successful year we are also fond of looking back at where it all began. Kimberly Leemans has built herself a life of beauty and now that she is established as a seasoned industry professional, she took a moment out of her busy schedule to speak about what it takes to survive in one of the worlds toughest industries.

For Kimberly, stardom has always been in her veins. It didn’t matter that she is from a small town in central Florida, she knew what she wanted and was determined to make it happen. Like many young girls, it was the big screen that drew her in. The creativity and magic created in front of the camera captured her attention and never let go. “I feel like the first movie that really marked me was Hocus Pocus. The youngest actress was about my age when it came out, and I just wanted to know what I needed to do to be able to play with Bette Midler in this awesome witch adventure. And then watching Disney Channel I just so wanted to be a part of the shows that I was watching, I wanted to live in those worlds.”

A stunningly natural beauty, her expressiveness and charm are one part nature and one part nurture. She has learned how to work the camera not in a classroom, but through trial and error. Now a polished professional, it is observation and experience that were her teachers. Back when the roadmap wasn’t always clear, this wide-eyed dreamer from Ocala took a chance during Ocala Magazine’s very first cover model contest and that chance has paid off in a big way.

“Honestly, the first time I ever thought or felt like a model was during the Ocala’s Next Top Model magazine photo shoot. You guys did an incredible job putting together a professional shoot for five local girls. I feel like we maybe had five or seven different wardrobe changes and setups. I remember feeling so excited and so nervous because I had no idea what I was doing but getting to see the final photos when the voting began was an incredible confidence boost of like Wow! That’s me! And then after I won and saw my face on the cover of a magazine all over town. That was a pretty special moment.

So thanks Dad, for submitting me without my knowing because other people could see

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something about me before I could.”

One thing you will notice when talking to Kimberly is that she carries a surprising amount of humility for someone in the heart of the fashion and entertainment industry.

“The truth of it is that without this experience I wouldn’t have had the confidence boost to apply for America’s Next Top Model.”

Always a fan of the show when the opportunity came for her to audition her family and friends rallied around to support her.

“Going out for ANTM was a two-parter. I was a freshman at Florida International University in Miami and my girlfriends would all gather together in one of our rooms every Wednesday or Thursday night and we would pig out while watching the show. Any time the girls on the show had challenges and would freak out about not being able to do it I would be like ‘I could do that!’ So eventually my girlfriends put me to the test and said ‘why don’t you audition then?’ ”

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Not one to back down from a challenge, she did just that. But the auditioning process would prove to be more difficult than anticipated. “I Auditioned with the big mass casting call and didn’t even make it past the first round of elimination. To be fair, I had this terrible brassy blonde hair and had definitely packed on some freshman 15lbs. So leading up to the next year I went back to my natural brown hair and started working out. I sent in a taped audition and was later called by the producers to come back to the mass auditions, but in a different category. I made it through the first eliminations, then the second, third, fifth. Seventh, and then It was a waiting game. ‘Don’t call us we’ll call you.’ And maybe three months later I got the call that I was in the semifinals! That was one of the best feelings I’ve ever had!”

Out of thousands of models in attendance, the small-town girl from Ocala Florida was thrust onto the worlds stage. “There

isn’t an adjective thrilling enough to explain the pure joy and exhilaration I was feeling.

I wanted to shout it from the roof tops but I wasn’t aloud to tell anyone. Only my parents and my boyfriend knew. I couldn’t even tell my best friends, it was super-secretive.

So my celebration was intensely intimate. I just had to tell everyone that I was going on vacation for a few months and it wasn’t until the promos came out in September that I could finally admit to it!”

A roller coaster ride from the start America’s Next Top Model 9 was filled with everything you would expect from the show. From the outside looking in, the average viewer assumes that the rumors are true. That the modeling world is notoriously competitive and at times almost vicious.

So how does a small-town girl adjust to life on such a competitive scale underneath the scope of an international audience?

“The models have always been really

“There’s no guidance or how-to on being a model.

It goes back to being as authentically you as possible.”

nice. I never felt like I fit in, though. These girls are so naturally classy-looking that they could just rock a white t-shirt and jeans and look like a cover of GLAMOUR. I, on the other hand, didn’t feel as effortless and maybe came off as a little try-hard, but I didn’t know any better. There’s no guidance or how-to on being a model. It goes back to being as authentically you as possible. One girl’s authenticity is to casually resemble a magazine cover and another girl (me) is just coming across as a goofy noodle.” She laughs.

Maintaining a sense of humor is important in an industry that is built upon physical appearance and even someone as steadfast as she had her moments.

“It takes its toll for sure. I lost a lot of work because my skin was never clear enough. You would think with all the photoshopping they do that it wouldn’t be such a deal-breaker (but it is). I went to Europe to test out those markets and my breasts

were too big for Paris, my look wasn’t edgy enough for Belgium, my look was too classic for Milan. It was always something.”

Tired of the endless cycle of being told who to be she did what anyone in her situation would do, she rebelled against the system that created her image in the best way she knew how. “So, a few years ago I started cutting my hair. My agents freaked and I bought extensions. You’re a product, and you have to stay consistent so that they can sell you. But when you feel like, your full potential isn’t being recognized you start to rebel. So the next step was to bleach my hair white-which continued to evolve by shaving my sides. I no longer wanted my talents to be based off what people thought would sell—because it wasn’t selling enough for what I wanted. I wanted to have free-will over my self-expression again.”

It’s her ability to express herself that has landed her roles on mega-hit television shows whose fandoms and syndication span

worldwide. “I you’re a fan of The Walking Dead, I played Crystal from The Hilltop in season six. Spoiler alert, I punched Rick for killing my boo and then Machonne kicked my ****.” Die hard Walking Dead fans know who she is, as there are very few people who can fight both Rick and Michone and live to tell about it, but in the show that exactly what her character did. So does this mean she will be making another appearance on one of the shows upcoming seasons? “She’s still technically alive and I think she’s probably made it to Canada by now but I’m sure she could find a ride back down to help the good fight if the contracts align.”

The Walking Dead was not her only foray into the sci-fi/horror community “One of my favorites was playing a witch (the younger version of Jo) in Vampire Diaries. And the next time I should be on your screens is this October in a new Syfy Tv series called Spides.”

Darker characters seem to be well es-

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The Walking Dead

On the set of the new Syfy television series, Spides ANTM

Ocala Magazine's first cover model contest winning cover on display All behind the scenes photos courtesy of Kimberly Leemans

ANTM

Shooting The Last Blockbuster

tablished in her wheelhouse but they’re not the only tool in her arsenal. With an ability to channel any character, she found herself on the hit show Nashville. “I got to play (alongside) Miss Hayden Panettiere in Nashville as a reporter that got to follow her daily life for a week.”

With a chameleon-like ability to go from modeling to television, the experiences in and of themselves are worth their weight in gold. “My favorite memory of those TV experiences are the sets, just the massiveness of the productions. The amount of people and expertise in every department it takes to entertain you for a few minutes. I love community, and these sets are like self-sufficient

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little villages and the crew becomes like a family. The sad part is not being able to stay longer. The dream would be a 7-year series where we just get paid to play and entertain.

That’s what attracted me to becoming an actor. I always had an active imagination but how much more fun is it when you can play make-believe on real sets and then see all the magic come together in the end. Best.

Game. Ever.”

Spoiler alert, I punched Rick for killing my boo and then Machonne kicked my a**” Transitioning from one venue to the next is not something that everyone can do. Both models and actors must have within themselves a sense of timing, but in acting, it’s the delivery that matters; and Kimberly has mastered her craft.

“My breasts were too big for Paris, my look wasn’t edgy enough for Belgium, my look was too classic for Milan.

It was always something.”

With the knowledge she has acquired over the years, she has branched out from being in front of the cameras to now running the show. Models come to her for advice and guidance entrusting her to help them build the very career she previously built for herself. “The opportunity came up that a talent agency was opening up in Bend, OR where I live now. I was so excited to finally get the insider scoop of how the submission side of things worked.

I wanted to be the change that I wanted to see in this industry. I let each of my clients know when I bring them on that I want there to be an open line of communication. There can be this weird hierarchy/gatekeeper vibe between agents and talent when really we both need each other. There’s not one without the other, so let’s talk to each other like human beings.

I’ll let you know when things aren’t working or the feedback I get from casting,” she explains.

As time moves forward and technology changes the industry changes along with it. It’s been a over decade since Kimberly Leemans was named Ocala Magazine’s cover model and the years have been filled with lessons, both good and bad.

“The industry is changing so fast. Especially with social media. I’m not sure how long the ‘followers’ game will be an active part of getting people work. The pros are that anyone, anywhere can become an ‘insta-model’ and promote what they have to offer by themselves. The con is that it seems like a lot more work and a lot more competition to just get in the game and stay relevant.”

With trends in a constant state of flux, whether it’s modeling or acting, one needs to know who they are and what they want.

“Something I’ve come to grips with now that I’m in my thirties is that I’m tired of my skillset being ‘trendy.’ What I have to offer, the experience I’ve built, the talent I have developed is flippantly discarded because of a look people are going for at this moment. It’s in, it’s not, you’re hot then you’re not. There’s no stability and there’s no way to predict the next move. My wise advice is, be who YOU are.

Always. The tides will change and when it’s ‘your’ turn you’ll have been authentic from the get-go. Don’t put all your eggs in one basket.

Do find a balance of work and play. Never put your life on hold for your career.”

Perspective is often the best teacher. We do not know where each step will lead. That is the beauty of life, not knowing. Taking each opportunity as it comes and having the courage to step through the doors when they are opened. That is the lesson to be learned, and for our current models, Kimberly has one final thought.

“Girls, I want you to know, however this experience has been for you, to appreciate the support system around you. To the photographer that helped coach you into your best angle. To the hair and makeup team for highlighting your naturally gorgeous features. To the editors and designers that highlight and layout this gorgeous spread that you get to keep forever. To your community that voted and routed for you ‘winner’ or not.

And most importantly to YOU for showing up, doing something out of your comfort zone, being vulnerable and brave. What you do with this experience from here on out is yours and maybe it will take you 13 years to take a moment to reflect at how young, innocent, naïve, beautiful you are in all of your unknowing. Congratulations!

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A FRIENDLY REMINDER FROM

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OCALA MAGAZINE

City of Ocala General Election Tuesday, September 17, 2019 7am-7pm

REGISTRATION CLOSES AUGUST 19, 2019 OFFICES ON THE BALLOT: MAYOR OF OCALA, CITY COUNCIL SEAT 2, CITY COUNCIL SEAT 4

It matters.

It’s your right, exercise it!

To find out if you’re registered, to register, to see where your voting location is, or for more information visit votemarion.com

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PROTECTING OUR CHILDREN

Marion County Schools prepare to implement stricter safety procedures

BY CAREY DAVID

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t’s been 20 years since the Columbine High School massacre where 15 people lost their lives and our nation watched in horror. And just over a year ago on Valentines Day a gunman opened fire with a semi-automatic rifle at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, killing seventeen students and staff members and injuring seventeen others. But as students, parents, teachers, and a community we felt the very real impact of the Forest High School shooting incident in April of last year. It was no longer thousands of miles away. The faces were no longer nameless. They were our kids. Our spouses. Our significant others. Our family. Our friends.

Thankfully there was no loss of life. Statistic go out the window and things get very personal when someone you love is in harm’s way. Emotions run high and nerves are raw.

But I’m not here to relive or recount the particulars of that day. We as a community need to continue to look forward from the Forest High School shooting incident in terms of school safety and the part that each of us plays in providing a safe learning environment for our children. Our future leaders.

The legacy that we will leave.

Let’s take a look at where we were before the Forest shooting and after for some perspective. I had the pleasure to visit with Kevin Christian, Public Information Officer for the Marion County Public Schools (MCPS) who was a wealth of information and if I were a parent of school age children here (as I was over 20 years ago) these ongoing improvements in security would give me great comfort.

It’s important to note that the recommendations in the Marjorie Stoneman Douglas High School Public Safety Act (born out of the Parkland shooting) were already being followed by MCPS prior to the bill being signed into law on March 9, 2018. The day after the Forest shooting armed Student Resource Officers (SRO’s) went from being on 17 schools to 56 campuses. Increased visibility led to increased awareness by students, teachers, and staff. SRO vehicles are parked as close as possible the main building entrances as a further deterrent. Another front that Christian spoke of is fencing and it’s a big priority for MCPS even with the challenges it presents at some of the school locations. The goal is to keep those off of school

...THE RECOMMENDATIONS IN THE MARJORIE STONEMAN DOUGLAS HIGH SCHOOL PUBLIC SAFETY ACT (BORN OUT OF THE PARKLAND SHOOTING) WERE ALREADY BEING FOLLOWED BY MCPS...

property that don’t belong and to keep those who do belong in a space that is safe and conducive for learning with a single point of entry. It’s not always possible to install perimeter fencing so in some cases fencing is being installed between buildings using the structures themselves as part of the barrier system.

Marion County Public Schools is also

looking at the monetary cost of add more video cameras. A proposal has already been submitted to the School Board for 1.4 million dollars that would bring the total number of cameras to 672, nearly tripling the number there are now. Still, there is the challenge of how do you monitor all of these cameras? Kevin made a statement that stuck

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“ STUDENTS ARE THE BEST EYES AND EARS WE HAVE ON CAMPUS.” with me. “Students are the best eyes and ears we have on campus.” I think that 43,000 plus aware student eyes and ears trumps any number of video surveillance if they live by their mantra of “See it, Say it, Report it.”

Training and practice are also an integral part of the MCPS plan. There is a quote that says, “If you stay ready you don’t have to get ready.” Active shooter protocol training was completed by MCPS employees within 2 weeks of the Parkland incident and Sherriff Billy Woods said, “It saved lives.” In addition to training, active shooter drills are practiced as often as fire drills (which is at least 12 times

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a year while classes are in session.) This further reinforces top of mind awareness.

I also talked with Pastor Darren Gaddis of First Baptist Church, Ocala whose daughter, Leah was in close proximity of the shooter on the Forest campus that day. As a parent prior to the incident he said he felt his children were safe. Since the shooting he has observed the SRO’s vehicles at the front doors of the schools where his children attend. Although Rev. Gaddis dealt with a school shooting in 1997 just out of seminary he said, “We can get lulled into a false sense of security by the percentages.” Percentages

"WE LIVE IN AN INCREASINGLY VIOLENT AND UNPREDICTABLE WORLD BUT WE SHOULDN’T LET FEAR PARALYZE OUR LIVES ." go out the window when it comes to someone you love.

In a separate conversation with Leah (now a graduate of Forest High School) she echoed her Dads sentiment. “I felt safe because I knew everyone. I wasn’t as cautious because I didn’t feel the need.” Leah told me wearing a school ID made her feel safe as well as the gates and fencing. “The biggest thing for me,” she said “was the room with The Rock in it. It’s changed the culture of the school. It was a place to go that made me feel emotionally safe.” I asked Leah if she had any advice for students on campus. She shared 3 things with me: • Always have an escape plan.

• Be proactive.

• Be prepared but not scared.

We live in an increasingly violent and unpredictable world but we shouldn’t let fear paralyze our lives. Safety whether on a school campus, a place of worship or a shopping mall all starts with walking into those spaces and being aware of our environment.

Look up when you’re walking instead of down at your cellphone. Ask yourself if anything looks out of place and if it does say something to someone. We all too often think someone else will say something and “they” never do. Be the active teller of what you see. If you feel uncomfortable or threatened and have the ability to leave or flee the area to safety do it! Marion County Public Schools has the right idea for all of us.

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Gracious Central Florida Living Photo by Ralph Demilio

Everything Equine p54 | State of the City p56 | State of the County p57 | Charity: Habitat for Humanity p58

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everything equine

A

few years ago, I had the honor of meeting Clayton Fredericks at the International 3-Day Event at the Ocala Jockey Club in Reddick. He is one of the most friendly and humble equestrians who knows no stranger. As the course designer for this beautiful and scenic venue (that also marks the second highest point in Florida), this is far from Clayton’s only claim to fame.

Clayton Fredericks was born and raised ‘down under’ in Australia, learning at the age of eight how to ride horses; he did a lot of horse-showing in and around Perth. At the age of 16, he discovered cross-country when he entered a pony club tetrathlon, and from then on, 3-Day Eventing became his passion.

Clayton Fredericks is now a two time Olympian and two-time FEI World Cup Champion and has had a distinguished career, competing at the highest levels of Eventing.

He offers coaching, clinics, horse training, as well as being a qualified FEI 3*- 5* course designer. He and his wife Lisa regularly travel overseas to Europe, bringing horses back to the U.S.A to train and prepare them to do great things in the world of Eventing. All of this, happening just outside of Ocala not far away from where most of us live.

As you enter Clayton’s Greenbriar Farm, you may see some stall fronts. They are part of FEI Stabling, another venture of Clayton’s. WOODHOUSE™ stables designed, manufactured, installed and maintained the temporary stabling for the 1992 Barcelona Olympics, the 2012 London Olympics, and the 2014 World Equestrian Games. They also supply many other equestrian events, large and small, around the U.K. and Europe.

During the London Olympic Games, Clayton had an opportunity to use these

rby.”

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Ocala’s Olympic Talent

Up close and personal with one of Ocala’s treasures— Olympic medalist and equestrian, Clayton Fredericks

BY LOUISA BARTON

stables and was immediately impressed with the construction, safety, and spaciousness of them. Fredericks Equestrian International partnered with L.H. WOODHOUSE™ stables and between the dedication of Woodhouse’s more than a century of craftsmanship coupled with Clayton’s decades of superior equine experience, it just made perfect sense. Clayton and FEI Stabling became the North American supplier, right here in ‘the Horse Capital of the World’, offering better quality and competitively priced stabling option for shows, events and for your own pasture.

A shaded arena with ideal footing on the Fredericks Equestrian International facility in Anthony is where Clayton, his wife, and their students spend many hours a day training horses. I was fortunate, as my role as Director of Equine Engagement at the Ocala, Marion County Chamber, and Economic Partnership-and as host of the Horse Talk Show on 97.3 the Sky-provided an opportunity to spend a day at Clayton and Lisa’s farm in Anthony. We had a nice cup of coffee in the morning and sat under the trees in the middle of the arena, watching the riders training potential future Olympic horses.

Clayton shared the highs and lows of com-

peting at the Olympics, becoming a course designer, his mentors, funny moments, and more. Clayton’s dog Rastas occasionally jumped up perching on my lap for a few moments for a back or tummy scratch and then took off again to squirrel hunt, determined that none dare to venture down from a tree on his watch.

Then to my delight, Clayton’s wife Lisa came up to join us, bringing a beautiful horse with her. Clayton introduced this horse as ‘Ben Along Time.’ Ben Along Time (Ben) returned from Hong Kong and is living out every person’s (and horse’s) dream of retiring in sunny Ocala, Florida. Although retired from eventing, Ben enjoyed competing in dressage while in Hong Kong with his

During the London Olympic Games, Clayton had an opportunity to use these stables and was immediately impressed with the construction, safety, and spaciousness of them.

Photos courtesy of Louisa Barton

LIVE

owner Peta McAuley, but now seemed more than content with his home at the Fredericks’ Greenbrier Stables. You may wonder why this horse is such a big deal. For those of you who read ‘Everything Equine’ in Ocala Magazine regularly, you know I love them all, but Ben does boast quite a long list of exceptional accolades.

Edwin and Peta McAuley purchased Ben, and from the very beginning of his career, Ben showed the talent and determination that would lead him to all his major wins around the globe. Progressing with ease, Ben competed in his first 3*** at the age of only 7, finishing in 6th place. Twice a World Cup Winner, Ben became a well-traveled event horse on circuits all over the world including Malmo CIC***W-Final, Saumur CCI3***, Chatsworth CIC3***W, Rolex Kentucky CCI4****, and Deauville CIC3***W-Final.

He was also a member of the Australian team at the 2006 World Equestrian Games winning the individual silver medal and was part of the silver medal winning Australian team at the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games.

Ben’s record shows only one cross country jump fault to his name over 10 years of competing on the International circuit. Ben always loved to be the center of attention, and he was no different this day either. Ben always performed the best under pressure when he knew all eyes were on him at the biggest competi-

Mark Your Calendars

SOCA Obstacle Challenge The Florida Horse Park 11008 S Highway 475, Ocala, FL 34480 September 7, 2019 at 8:00am - 5:00pm www.southernobstaclechallenges.com Equine Engagement Meeting presented by New Millennium Realty Ocala Marion County Chamber and Economic Partnership 310 SE 3rd St Ocala Fl 34471 Second floor boardroom September 19, 2019 at 2:00pm - 3:00pm An Equine engagement Initiative meeting with up to date horse news and more.

Refreshments provided.

tions around the world. The day I was there, he loved being the center of attention again, enjoying the short photo session and being part of the interview with Clayton and myself.

In a post 4 years ago, Clayton tweeted, “Exciting News. Ben Along Time, my old Friend, will return to me in the coming months to retire in Florida. He has been with his owners Edwin and Peta McAuley in Hong Kong giving Peta some fantastic fun. Now 20, he will retire to my new home Greenbriar to enjoy the fantastic weather and lush grass. So looking forward to being reunited with my partner in sport”.

We are excited that Olympic Medalist Clayton Fredericks lives just around the corner from us here in the Horse Capital, as we are to have his partner in sport, Ben Along Time, retired here also. What an opportuni-

ty I had to be there with both of them. Clayton Fredericks is multi-talented, an Olympic medalist, owner of a stabling business, a riding instructor/trainer, a husband, a dad of his teenager Ellie, a 5* course designer, a 3-Day Event competitor and (unbeknownst to some) he also sings in a band and is quite good.

Nearing the end of the interview, when I asked Clayton what the top of his bucket list was, he said to return to the Olympics and bring a medal back. Who knows, maybe one of the horses at the farm training that day will be the one to help him fulfill that dream! I know for sure, we will all be cheering him on.

Although he will be riding for his homeland Australia, where he was inducted into the Equestrian Hall of Fame in 2018, we know he will be bringing the medal (and his talents) back to his farm in Ocala!

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LIVE

state of the city

ies

Ocala’s

Fire Bell

A Piece of Living History

BY ASHLEY LOPEZ, PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER FOR OCALA FIRE RESCUE

E

very so often, a historical piece is rediscovered. Unassuming as a diamond in the rough, this item captivates our attention, transporting us through time, allowing us to coexist with our ancestors, side by side. Such is the case for Ocala’s fire bell.

Crafted by the McShane Bell Foundry—a Maryland based bell producer since 1856—Ocala’s fire bell arrived at our humble town in 1889. Although its purpose is entirely ornamental today, the fire bell sitting at the corner of SE Broadway Street and SE Osceola Avenue served an invaluable purpose then— alerting the masses of fire incidents.

The necessity for the bell was evident after the devastating Thanksgiving Day fire that de-

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voured five blocks of the booming downtown area in 1883. Not all was lost that Thanksgiving Day. At least two great victories emerged from lessons learned; the birth of the Ocala Fire Department (1885), and the rebirth of the thriving city of Ocala as the “Brick City” -nicknamed as such after business owners opted to rebuild with brick instead of wood.

With an established fire department complete with a fire station, located where the downtown parking garage sits today, the townspeople felt some reassurance. Yet, something was missing. That the town needed something as a way to alert both firefighters and townsfolk as soon as a fire was spotted; a fire bell would become the solution to the problem.

In 1889, the 1,615-lb. bell made its way to Ocala; it would be housed in a tower built next to the city’s fire station, in the heart of downtown Ocala. With unique bell tolls indicating which area of town the fire was in, the bell served as our primary means of “dispatch” for more than seven decades. In 1968, Fire Station One was relocated to NE Watula Avenue the bell was decommissioned.

But the bell’s journey was far from over. In 1968 the bell was given to a church in Dunnellon. Nearly half a century later its connection to the city of Ocala and the town’s history reemerged. With this new-found knowledge, the city knew the bell had to come home.

After years of hiding in plain sight, the bell has returned not only to Ocala but to the very town block where it was once housed. Today, this integral part of Ocala’s history serves as a reminder of the resiliency of the town which emerged from the ashes, and the invaluable significance of our living history.

state of the county

vate wells,” said Dr. Yilin Zhuang, a community resource efficiency agent with Marion County. “It is well owners’ responsibility to ensure that their water is safe to drink. Successful management and protection of private wells depends on education.”

Extension Services recommends annual well testing, but about 65% of recent participants reported never testing their water. The reason for the lack of testing is not due to a lack of desire but a lack of education about the process. This is what the Extension Service hopes to solve.

Well, What’s in Your Water?

Marion County UF/IFAS Extension Service hosts free well water seminars.

PROVIDED BY MARION COUNTY

E

ach month residents from all over Marion County gather for one purpose, safe well water. The Marion County UF/IFAS Extension Service teaches residents safe well practices.

These monthly, two-hour seminars focus primarlily on preventing and treating well water contamination.

“Two-thirds of Marion County’s residents receive their drinking water from pri-

“We want to improve residents’ understanding of wells,” said Zhaung. “This will help keep families safe because a contaminated water source can harm people and the environment. We also offer free bacterial tests after each class, along with an explanation of the results.”

Marion County UF/IFAS Extension Service is a cooperation between (and funded by both) the Marion County Board of County Commissioners and the University of Florida. Extension agents work to extend the research and resources of the university to Marion County residents through educational programs and services.

TO REGISTER for an upcoming seminar, call 352-671-8400 or visit Facebook. com/MarionCountyFlorida/

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charity

Building Sweat Equity H

BY ILIA LABOY

An idea that began over 40 years ago has grown into a movement where over 20 million families worldwide have helped into financial and housing security. This concept eventually evolved into what we now know as Habitat for Humanity, and their local impact in our community is palpable.

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abitat for Humanity focuses on the issue of shelter. They are advocates for affordable and accessible housing and help promote self reliance through their home ownership program. The process requires some patience and hard work, but it is designed for the long-term success of the applicant and their families, as the program aims to teach you about every aspect of homeownership.

From financial literacy and mortgages, to simple home repairs, Habitat for Humanity (HFH) covers just about all the responsibilities of acquiring and maintaining a home. Prospective applicants do have to show a need for safe and affordable housing and are subject to a home inspection and credit check during the application process. Once accepted, you begin

the journey towards your home, getting to choose your layout and even some upgrade options like flooring and wall colors. The smallest homes built are 3 bedroom 2 bathroom houses. However, once being accepted, the real work begins.

There are a required 500 hours of what they call “sweat equity,” where you are volunteering your time towards helping the organization continue their mission. You might work at the HFH ReStore cashing out customers or helping with construction by building someone else’s home. Providing support to other needy families during their process and receiving that same support in return fosters a sesnse community. Regardless of which step of the process you are handling at the moment, the HFH team is with you throughout the whole deal, even handing you the keys when move-in day comes.

There are currently 9 homes under construction and 4 closing in the next month, none of which would be possible without the support of the community. Through local and national partners, neighborhood donations and a multitude of volunteers, HFH is able to help more families become homeowners, many for the first time. Nationwide partners like Valspar and Whirlpool provide ranges, refrigerators and paint for all of the homes

that HFH builds across the 50 states. Local companies like Closet Maids and Mike Scott Plumbing have partnered with HFH Marion County to provide assistance with the building process as well as bringing awareness to the program. The largest demographic of the families in the program are single parent homes and Executive Director, David Layman is very much inspired by this information. “The one thing that moves me the most are the children,” he said. “What encourages me about what we do is that we can impact a family and make a difference in a young person’s life.”

We should all be so moved by helping family leaders be able to provide their children with a stable home environment, and there are several ways we can actually help. It should go

without saying, but volunteering your time is in high demand as all the man power behind the organization comes from their strong volunteer force. Donating your lightly used furniture and home items to the ReStore also helps with fundraising for their building projects. Yet another way to help HFH provide housing is through their car donation program where you can take advantage of hassle-free pickup and even tax benefits, or you could just make a direct monetary donation to the non-profit organization through their website, www.habitatocala.org/online-donation.

By far, the simplest way to assist Habitat for Humanity with their mission is through your patronage. Shopping at the ReStore is a way to contribute available year round but HFH is also making sure to provide the com-

munity with wholesome events to support the cause and continues to foster that sense of community that puts the Humanity in “Habitat for Humanity.” Since they host everything from bowling nights to concert events, you get to have a good time and rejoice knowing you are also a catalyst for the strengthening of families around you.

Millard Fuller, Founder of Habitat for Humanity, once said, “For a community to be whole and healthy, it must be based on people’s love and concern for each other” and day by day the organization’s legacy continues to build through the work and support of the Marion County community.

FOR MORE INFORMATION visit www. habitatocala.org

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Dorchester Estates

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

FOR SALE

$329,999 Call for information 813-727-7657 A Licensed Real Estate Broker

GLASSMAN REAL ESTATE & DEVELOPMENT

eat

Beet Pizza â&#x20AC;&#x201D; recipe on ocalamagazine.com Photo and recipe by RSVP Robin

Berry Cool p62 | Ivy on the Square p66 | Dining Out p90

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berrycool STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROBIN FANNON OF RSVP ROBIN

“Better than any argument is to rise at dawn and pick dew-wet red berries in a cup.”

—WENDELL BERRY

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ne of the greatest joys of warm summer months is, without a doubt, fresh juicy berries. We all know the common varieties like; strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries, but in fact, there are at least 20 different varieties of this delectable fruit.

During this hottest of summer months, we are exploring fun and delicious ways to keep the family happy and cool!

While they are juicy and delicious, they also have incredible nutritional benefits; all berries have cancer-fighting properties, thanks to high levels of phytonutrients, antioxidants, and ellagic acid. All berries are packed with fiber and an excellent source of vitamin C, and they are good for blood pressure and heart health.

Berries are an aggregate fruit and actually contain seeds from 20 different ovaries of a single flower...wait, what? Each variety has its own little specialty. For example, blueberries are extremely beneficial to brain health and linked in studies to increased cognitive function.

Strawberries are good for headaches because they actually contain salicylates, an ingredient found in aspirin. One serving of raspberries contains 44% of your daily recommended dose

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of vitamin C. Berries are low in sugar and one of the only fruits that can be easily incorporated into a low carb (or Keto) diet.

In conjunction with all of these incredible benefits, they are an essential tool in a Chef ’s repertoire and a necessary ingredient in any professional kitchen. They are so ver-

satile and can be used in sauces, garnishes, fillings, desserts, and more. Kids love them because they are juicy, brightly colored, delicious, and fun to eat! I love them because they make healthy smoothies and desserts, which in turn helps with weight control… and they are oh so pretty!

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What is Granita?

Just a fancier word for Italian Ice, or dare I compare it to 7-Elevenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s version - the Slurpee? Granita is a frozen, fruity dessert originally from Sicily, but is widely available throughout Italy.

Related to sorbet, Grania varies in texture from smooth (which is generally made in a machine) to a more crystalline texture, which is achieved by shaving or scraping the frozen ingredients.

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rryStrawbrepone Masca a Granit Light, creamy and perfect for summer entertaining!

INGREDIENTS 1cup water 1/2cup organic cane sugar (or your favorite sugar substitute) Chopped fresh mint leaves 2 cups hulled and chopped strawberries 1/2cup mascarpone cheese (or a combination of sour cream and cream cheese) optional

INSTRUCTIONS • Put the water, 1/2 cup of sugar, and mint in a small pan and bring to a simmer, stirring to dissolve the sugar. Simmer over low heat to steep the mint. Strain the mint from the simple syrup and discard.

• In a food processor combine 2 cups of strawberries, add the mascarpone cheese, lemon juice, and salt until completely mixed.

Add the infused simple syrup. Place the mixture in an 8 by 8-inch glass dish and place the dish in the freezer for at least 4 hours.After frozen use a fork to scrape the granita.

• Spoon the mixture into chilled dishes of your choice and top with mint sprigs.

• Serve immediately.

ryRaspber Beet Latte This is perfect for when you have summer smoothie fatigue!

ade Homem Berry les Popsic The possibilities are endless! We highly recommend using stainless steel or silicone molds as opposed to plastic.

INGREDIENTS ½ of a raw red beet peeled and diced 1 pint of strawberries – hulled 1 small pieces of peeled ginger (about 1 inch) Sweeten as desired (we like stevia or maple syrup) Ice Cubes Milk of choice (either cow’s milk or plant based milk)

INTRUCTIONS • Place beet, strawberries and ginger in blender with ½ cup of cold water • Blend until pureed • Place in tall glass with ice cubes and top with milk of choice • Garnish with Mint – serve immediately

BASIC 3 INGREDIENT POPSICLES Frozen berries – strawberry, blueberry, raspberry or blackberries (or a combo) Sweetener of choice Coconut water, juice, milk of choice almond, coconut or cow’s milk) or yogurt

INSTRUCTIONS • • • •

Blend these three ingredients until smooth Pour into Molds* Freeze for at least 4 hours Enjoy!

*At this point you can add some additional fresh fruit into the mold for a more creative outcome.

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O

ver a quarter of a century ago Marjorie Hale, more affectionately known as “Mimi,” had the vision to turn a historic 1912 French country home in Williston into a hub where she would welcome the community to be part of her family. With the help of her daughters Evelyn Nussel and Waica Micheletti, today we see Mimi’s vision-and family-expanded with Ivy House on the Square in Downtown Ocala.

Around five years ago, when the time came to open a second location, Mimi and the family found the perfect extension to the existing historical theme. It was then that The Ivy House, in a beautiful and almost doll-house-like 1890s Victorian home right on Silver Springs Boulevard, opened. When the opportunity came along to move closer to the downtown square, they pounced at the chance to “shake things up — not only for Ivy House but for Downtown as well.” They were looking for something new and exciting; a way to tap into the more modern mindset of the downtown frequenters, but still keep-

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ing with the 1900s vintage aesthetic that sets them apart. After careful consideration, Waica and Evelyn decided that the Speakeasy theme would be the best way to bring together the perfect balance of modern and vintage.

The newer downtown location comes with more than just floor to ceiling windows and an open floor plan. Originally constructed in the 1890s this building was part of the downtown reconstruction project after the Thanksgiving fire of 1883. The fire is thought to have been accidentally started by a knocked-over lantern. Despite the efforts of the community, the fast-burning fire was no match for the all-wood construction of the time. The fire ended up consuming around 5 square blocks of the downtown area. Among the rubble were two hotels, about ten stores, several residences and even the office of the Ocala Banner Newspaper. Such an iconic building, with such deep-rooted history of our city, was the perfect fit for The Ivy’s planned expansion. The Ivy House was able to reinvigorate the space while still keeping all the historical structures and charm. The

new buildings were constructed using brick and iron to avoid history repeating itself. To our great advantage, the new construction has withstood the test of time to bring us the vintage industrial look that is now associated with Ivy on the Square.

Officially at the new location as of February 2019, the restaurant features tall beamed ceilings and exposed brick walls, where enlarged historical pictures from the 1900s hang to capture the speakeasy era. The waiters add to the theme by dressing in suspenders and bow ties with matching newsboy caps, bringing the 20s fashion to life. The almost 130-year-old building, once home to an appliance store in the 1940s, sits around 150 people. It also has a chic outside dining area with an elegant patio garden vibe perfect for those who would like to eat al fresco. The restaurant, however, serves anywhere from 200 to 500 guests daily! Feeding the masses is no strange task to the Ivy on the Square staff. They offer catering services and have a party room available for reservations that sit 50 people. The casually upscale atmosphere elevates southern hospitality to a

new level, which the chefs beautifully translate to the food.

To help incorporate environmentally friendly practices, they have included some healthy and environmentally conscious changes to their menu. They verify that their poultry products are all cage-free and make their burgers with the healthiest and leanest grass-fed wagyu beef available. Their lunch and dinner menus also feature vegetarian and gluten-free options for those more health and fitness conscious customers. Not only do they source high-quality ingredients, but they make everything in-house from scratch. One such example is their delicious hand-battered lobster tail. Fried and served with a creamy lemon sauce and a side of corny cornbread it’s a wonderful pairing with a fresh salad.

For those with a sweet tooth, the desserts are equally as fabulous. A full dessert bar is available with indulgances from a creamy white chocolate creme brulee, a decadent

chocolate midnight cake, or a perfectly sweet and tart key lime pie, there is something for every tastebud. Enjoy dessert alongside a hot Hazelnut Latte or add a little extra oomph with a luscious Nespresso Mojito from their fully developed “Coffees and Lattes” menu.

No matter what mood you’re feeling, their menu has something to satisfy your craving. However, the speakeasy aesthetic would not be complete without a large cocktail bar.

The experienced staff is churning out prohibition-inspired cocktails such as the Bee’s Knees Mojito, the Jitterbug Tea, the Rum Smuggler. The attention to detail that went into putting this entire concept together is remarkable.

Waica and Evelyn have taken the southern flare of their family recipes and presented their vision in a way we could not ignore.

The mission has become more about giving the community good elevated southern food, and their delivery is flawless. The speakeasy

aesthetic they achieved has the perfect balance of vintage and modern, industrial, and victorian that allows for people of all ages to enjoy their experience. It has all the best references of the 1920s era. With old school sophistication and some modern industrial flare, it’s more than food; it’s an experience.

If serving you family recipes wasn’t enough, you can buy Mimi’s cookbook “Graciously Southern,” now in its third printing, to take the recipes home with you. The book is filled with southern dishes and family stories that Mimi has curated to create her longtime dream collection.

Ivy on the Square is perfect for a night out with a special someone, close friends for a girls night, or in my case, a mommy date.

Even with all the refined touches in the decorating and menu choices, you still feel at home when you step in. So much so that you almost hear Mimi sing out their motto, “Come on home. It’s supper time!”

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Unforgettable Nights...

FRIDAYS:

Latin Night 8p-2a Live DJ Joe Ortiz Salsa • Merengue • Bachata SATURDAYS:

Saturday Night Dance 8p-2a Open Format • Hip Hop • Top 40

RENT THE TAVERN FOR YOUR SPECIAL EVENTS!

BOOK IN-HOUSE GATHERINGS, PRIVATE PARTIES, WEDDINGS OR OFF-PREMISE EVENTS

BAR • ENTERTAINMENT Fri-Sat • 8pm - 2am • 21 & up 11 E. Silver Springs Blvd. • 352.390.8969

tavernonthesquareocala.com

EAT

dining

OUT Craft Cuisine World-Inspired Culinary Creations Mouthwatering Monday: Build your own four-course menu. Selections from $13.99. Tuesday Ladies Night: 1st well drink FREE, $3 margaritas & 2-4-1 martinis.

Wine Down Wednesday: From 4-7p order, a charcuterie board paired with house wine for only $10.

Burgers and Bourbon Thursdays. Prime Rib Fridays.

Sangria Saturdays: Brunch Specials from 11a-3p; $5 Sangrias, Endless Mimosas $10, Bloody Mary $4 Special Bon-Appetit’ for August: Herb Crusted Rack of Lamb with Mint Pesto and Demi Glace.

Pork Belly and Mofongo with Mojo de Ajo.

Happy Hour Mon-Fri 4-7p $5 select tapas & drink specials.

Book your in-house gatherings, private parties, weddings or off-premise catering today. Golden Spoon Award Winner!

2237 SW 19th Avenue Rd., # 102, Ocala | (352) 237-7300 craftcuisineocala.com Lunch Mon-Sat 11a-4p | Dinner: Mon-Thur 4-9p | Fri & Sat 4-10p

Ivy On The Square We invite you to come to enjoy the summer vibes Downtown at The Ivy on the Square. We offer cool cocktails, irresistible desserts, and some summertime southern favorite dishes for lunch and dinner. Indulge all your senses when you experience Ivy on the Square from a vintage industrial atmosphere to our innovative menu which features signature dishes with family old recipes.

Our dining room and patio pay homage to old Ocala serving eclectic takes on southern food. Sure to please every pallet. We look forward to you dining with us!

Stop by and enjoy cocktails on our beautiful patio or at the bar.

Gift cards available.

Named by Florida Trend as one of the “Top 500 Best Places to Eat in the State” for several years. Call for catering info.

53 S. Magnolia Ave., Ocala | 352-622-5550 Tues - Sat 11am-9pm | Dining | Thurs - Sat 9pm -Til... | Tapas & Cocktails 106 NW Main St., Williston | 352-528-5410 Sun-Wed 11am-2pm, Thurs-Sat 11am-8pm | ivyhousefl.com AUG 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

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dining out

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

Golden Spoon Award Winner 9 consecutive years!

2010 to 2018

Special menu Wednesday through Saturday.

FRIDAY SEAFOOD NIGHT AND SATURDAY STEAK NIGHT

Mon-Thurs 5pm-10pm, Fri & Sat 5p-11p

Fine Dining

3600 SW 38th Ave., Ocala, fl 34474 | 352-291-0000 www.skyfinedining.com

Murphy’s Oyster & Seafood Murphy’s is so much more than an oyster bar!

Stop in for daily lunch and dinner specials. Grab a happy hour drink and stay to watch the game. Sit back and enjoy live music or join in the fun with karaoke.

Relax with friends on the outdoor Hookah Patio.

At Murphy’s we pride ourselves on serving great food along with a great experience. Our fresh seafood is the best in town, and we also o er a full menu with your favorite appetizers, burgers, salads and steaks.

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

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

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

Oyster • Seafood Bar and Grille

phone

352.304.5414 | 609.408.8959 | email SamGrafx@comcast.net

miniMENUMAGIC | ©2016 SamGrafx Design | 5724 SW 40th Place | Ocala, FL 34474 | All Rights Reserved

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 7a–6p 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

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

Ask about our daily, not on the menu items!

We offer gift cards, catering and entertaining.

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

The Lodge Craft Pub & Eatery The Lodge Craft Pub and Eatery is Downtown’s new gastropub for cocktails, food and fun!

Follow The Lodge Ocala on Facebook for announcements about menu items and specials.

We have more than 200 craft brews, a large wine selection and specialty food menus. This casual pub and eatery is located just off the downtown square, so you can take advantage of free valet service. We’ll see you soon at The Lodge!

Sun-Thurs 11:30a–11p, Fri-Sat 11:30a–2a 36 SE Magnolia, Ocala, FL 34471 www.facebook.com/thelodgeocala

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

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

Live music Wednesday through Saturday

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

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

Follow us on Facebook for exclusive on-line incentives!

Join us Fridays for lunch.

Private Dining Rooms Available.

We invite you to consider Ipanema Brazilian Steakhouse to host or cater your next event.

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

Latinos Y Mas Latinos Y Mas invites you to join them for their Summer Taste Bud Travel Tour of Central & South America!

Mondays- Kids Eat Free with purchase of an adult entree.

Taco Tuesdays- margarita, tacos al pastor $9.95 or order any two tacos of the regular menu and receive a complimentary margarita.

Wednesday- 2 X 1 sangria and 1/2 price appetizer.

Thursday- 1/2 price apptetizer w/ purchase of 2 entrees.

Friday- Ropa Vieja Lunch Special! $10.95.

Ask us about our in house, off site, plated, buffet, and on the go catering of our authentic Latin fusion cuisine. Perfect for your next corporate, community or private event.

NEW Curbside Carry Out!

Happy hour 3 to 7pm Monday-Thursday 2 for 1 house margarita 2 for 1 house wine

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

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

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

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

play

“Cowboy Gardener” by Jordan Shapot Acrylic and Oil on Canvas | 24” x 30” | 2019 | Private Collection | www.JordanShapot.com | Instagram and Facebook: @shapot_art

Experience Ocala p74 | Local Music Scene p76 | Socially Speaking p80

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experience Ocala

PLAY

August 2019 YOGA IN THE PARK SHALOM PARK

August 3rd | 9:00 AM 10:00 AM | 7110 SW 80th Ave, Ocala, FL 34481

KIDS HEALTH ALLIANCE BACK-TO-SCHOOL EVENT August 3rd, 10:00 AM

PEACE AND LOVE TOUR: CELEBRATING THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF WOODSTOCK August 1st | 7:30 PM - 10:30 PM The Ocala Symphony

Celebrate the 50th anniversary of Rock n’ Roll history by turning back the clock to Woodstock and enjoy two hours of peace, love and music. Relive the music of Creedence Clearwater Revival, the Grateful Dead, Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, Crosby, Stills, and Nash, The Who & more artists from the Woodstock era as performed live by the national touring Paisley Craze Band. Come early to enjoy the pre-show festivities, including Woodstock trivia, tie-dye merchandise, photo-booths and much more! Limited $59 VIP tickets are available and include a seat in the first 3 rows plus a commemorative CD. Reilly Arts Center | 500 NE 9th St, Ocala, FL 34470

KALETA & THE SUPER YAMBA BAND WITH SHINE & THE SHAKERS

2650 NW 2nd St Ocala, Florida 34475 Join Kids Health Alliance for our very first Annual Back-to-School Event.

We will have fun games, music, a prize raffle, and food & drinks!

Thanks to our awesome community Partners and Sponsors, we will also be offering: • Free haircuts • Free school supplies • Free massages • Free acupuncture • Free hearing and vision screenings • Free Photo Session • And more!

Free Admission. First come first served. Until supplies last. Please register to enter our prize raffle. *Must be present at the time of the drawing (1pm) to claim prizes.”

FREE INTERACTIVE, IMMERSIVE OCALA BRIDAL EXPERIENCE

August 8th, 5:00pm

Hilton Ocala | 3600 Southwest 36th Ave. Hilton Ocala invites you to tour their newly renovated wedding and event venue at this FREE hands-on bridal experience designed for the modern bride and groom.

DISCOVERY DATE NIGHT

August 9th, 6:30pm: Tickets: $30.00.

701 Northeast Sanchez Ave Ocala, FL 34470 Come check out our new Sense-sational Exhibit while enjoying wine, appetizers and a full sensory themed Double Dare game!

August 2nd | 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM The 2019 Levitt AMP

Ocala Music Series presents Brooklyn afro-funksters Kaleta & Super Yamba Band and opening act, Shine & The Shakers. The performance is free. Please bring your chairs and blankets. 1510 NW 4th Street Ocala, FL 34475

COUCH SESSIONS: FT. THE GREG SNIDER BAND & MAGGIE WEAKLEY

August 2nd | 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM Music & Art. 101 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ste. 102, Ocala, Florida 34470 The Greg Snider Band will perform Jazz pieces you know and love as well as original works, joined by Maggie Weakley who will be painting live and have her artwork on display for purchase. Seating is very limited for this intimate concert. Tickets $50.

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2019 ANNUAL KICKOFF EVENT OF OCALA QUARTERBACK CLUB’S 64TH SEASON ANNUAL KICKOFF August 15th | 5:30 PM | $30

The Ocala Quarterback Club opens its 64th season with high expectations on Aug. 15 due to an early Florida-Miami kickoff in Orlando. Former Florida and Illinois head coach Ron Zook will kick off the season at the Ocala Elks Lodge as the headline speaker, with various others to accompany. Dues are $300, which covers 10 full sit-down dinners. Those submitting their dues by or before the Aug. 15 meeting will not be charged for the evening event with Ron Zook.

FARMERS 1ST ANNUAL GOLF TOURNAMENT TO BENEFIT FEED THE NEED

MATILDA - THE NEW MUSICAL August 30th | 8:00 PM | $5.00 Entry 4337 E Silver Springs Blvd Ocala, FL 34470

Inspired by the dark whimsy of Roald Dahl’s book and the beloved 1996 film, this is a thrilling, joyous, girl-power romp full of catchy songs and high-energy dance numbers. Children and adults alike will fall in love with Matilda, a clever little girl with the extraordinary ability to move things with her mind! Come see how the kindness of just one person, plus Matilda’s own vivid imagination, empowers her to find the courage to change her destiny.

August 16th, 1:00 PM

Join us for the First Annual Farmers Golf Tournament to benefit Feed The Need of Marion County! We look forward to coming together as a community to play some golf while raising money for this deserving charity!

Sponsorship and team packages available. For more information, contact Chris Sanders: 352-671-3332 or chris@accentinsurance.net

3130 E Silver Springs Blvd, Ocala, Florida 34470

CONNECTED WARRIORS YOGA CLASS September 4th 12:00 PM

Ocala Cars & Coffee 2019 GLO WITH THE FLO 5K RUN

August 24th | 8:00 PM 151 S.E. Osceola Ave.

This fun night time run will have historic downtown Ocala illuminated with participants winding through its streets! Come out and run for a good cause at this years Glo with the Flo 5k Run. The Drayton Florence Foundation and the Family Violence Prevention Workgroup are dedicated to educating children and families on healthy relationships and the importance of incorporating fitness activities into their daily lives. Proceeds of this event will go towards providing resources and services to families affected by family violence as well as physical activity to our youth. Last year we raised almost $10,000 that directly benefited children in Marion County.

ALL RUNNERS MUST REGISTER ONLINE AT: https://glowiththeflo5k.itsyourrace.com/register/

KIWANIS SPORTSMAN’S DINNER AND AUCTION 2019

August 23rd | 6:00 PM - 9:30 PM 8825 SW 110th St, Ocala, FL 34481

Come join over 300 sports lovers for an evening of fun, food, open bar and auction! There will be bargains on hunting and fishing gear, gift cards, TVs, vacation homes, cooking gear. jewelry and more! This event helps supports all kiwanis children projects for marion county children!

For More Information Contact: Angie Negron 352-209-5850 Email: ansrg874@gmail.com

September 1st 8:00 AM Chelsea Coffee Company

Ocala Vet Center

PLANTATION’S REDFISH CLASSIC

September 14th | 7:00 AM - 10:00 PM www.plantationredfishclassic.com

Enjoy a day out on the water at this family friendly tournament event. Although redfish is the primary quest, there will also be categories for Trout & Grouper along with a Youth & Ladies Division. Make a weekend out of the trip by staying on site at the Plantation On Crystal River. Hotel guests can take advantage of the lagoon-style pool, complementary lawn games and even dock their boat on 1,600 feet of seawall for easy launching the morning of the event. Events throughout the weekend include: Friday, Sept. 13th at 6 PM, Captain’s Dinner offering light hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar Saturday, Sept. 14 from daylight to 4 PM, the Plantation Redfish Classic Saturday, Sept. 14 at 7 PM, Awards Banquet

OCALA ELECTRIC UTILITY CUSTOMER APPRECIATION DAY

October 6th | 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Citizens’ Circle | 151 SE Osceola, Ave. Ocala, FL 34471 Public Power Week is October 6-12 and To show appreciation for our customers, OEU will be hosting a Customer Appreciation Day, providing FREE food and drinks on a first-come, first-served basis. Entertainment will be provided, along with family friendly activities and attendees can take a ride in one of our bucket trucks! Educational items and giveaways will be available while supplies last. Come out for some family fun!

AUG 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

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019

local music scene

Dynamic Duets

BY MELISSA DESKOVIC TAKES US THROUGH THE BASICS, HOW DID YOU TWO MEET. Caly: We met at work. Through your downtown neighbor, Mrs. Angie Lewis herself.

Megan: I met Caly when I started working for Angie Lewis State Farm in October of 2017.

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WHEN DID YOU REALIZE THAT YOU WANTED TO MAKE MUSIC TOGETHER?

Caly: Immediately. I mentioned at work, shortly after Megan started, that I sing and play guitar in my free time. Megan came to me the same day asking to jam, and we got together that weekend to play for the first time. Her voice is out of this world, clearly. I couldn’t imagine not playing with her. So now she can’t get rid of me.

Megan: I found out when I started working that Caly sang and played. We traded recordings of songs we had covered and the one she

gave me was an acoustic version ‘Lose Yourself ’

by Eminem. My first thought was that I would have NEVER thought to do an acoustic cover of that song and that it was pretty unique.

Once I listened, there was no way I was letting her say no to playing together.

WHAT HAS BEEN THE BIGGEST HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR MUSICAL JOURNEY TO DATE? Caly: My biggest highlight is still the very first time I played in public. Megan actually really pushed me and encouraged me to do it. It was just a small open mic. night, I messed up half the chords because I was so nervous, I forgot an entire verse to our last song, and my voice was probably shaking the whole time- but all of our family and friends came out to support us. They stood up, they cheered and clapped, and it was just so cool to see their love and support.

Megan: I’ve always loved to sing and would per-

Photos by Michelle Klopfestein and Arianne Ramirez

PLAY

form literally anywhere that would let me when I was younger, but I threw a lot of great opportunities I had a way that could have advanced me. Where I’m at right now, even though we’re just starting, the recognition we have gotten from people so far as well as the opportunities, has been a really big highlight after carrying regret from missing so much in the past. I’m really putting myself out there for the first time in a long time and it’s been amazing.

FROM AN ARTISTS PERSPECTIVE, WHAT IS YOUR VIEWPOINT OF THE OCALA MUSIC SCENE? Caly: I think Ocala’s music scene is incredible! Almost every night of the week you can find local, live music somewhere downtown.

We have the Reilly Arts Center, which is about to double in size, and is where I’ve seen some of my favorite concerts of my life.

The Ocala Symphony Orchestra puts on the most enchanting shows. We have the coolest interactive concerts every month called Couch Sessions. And there is so much more going on! I highly recommend taking advantage of it. Our town is full of talent.

Megan: I’m really just beginning to dive into the music scene in Ocala, but so far I’ve been very impressed with the talent that’s here. Caly has introduced me to the Reilly and to other events like Couch Sessions and beyond that, there’s just so many venues in Ocala that have local musicians play and so many open mics for people to go to. It really makes me love when people say there isn’t anything to do in Ocala.

YOU BOTH HARMONIZE REALLY WELL TOGETHER, HOW LONG HAS IT TAKEN YOU TO GET TO THIS POINT? Caly: It’s something we’re still working on every day. Our voices are so different, and we’ve had to work really hard to figure out what works for each of us, and what doesn’t.

We’ve really gotten to know each other’s voices and each other’s strengths over the years. We push each other to be better and push our ranges. It’s been a process, but I think working together and trusting each other has been the most important thing.

Megan: From the beginning, neither of us have been scared to tell the other if we don’t

like or aren’t feeling something for our own voice, or if we don’t like it for the other. We are also the same in the fact that we will try something over, and over, and over again until we get as close to the same inflection as the other. We’ve gotten to the point where we really know each other’s voices and pick what we do based on that.

EVERY LOCAL MUSIC SCENE HAS ITS OWN SET OF CHALLENGES, WHAT ARE SOME OF THE ONES YOU’VE FACED? Caly: I’d say a big challenge of mine is making sure that I make time for music. I work full time for Angie Lewis State Farm, am involved with the Reilly Arts Center’s Associate Board, I’m on the board for Young professionals Ocala, and I have to be very intentional about not letting music take a backseat.

Megan: Right now, I think the fact that we are only performing covers makes it a little more challenging to do something memorable for people since we don’t fully have our

own sound figured out. So not getting lost in the background is pretty challenging Which is why we really focus on our song selection and making our catalogue so diverse so we can try to strike a chord with as many people as possible.

AS YOU CONTINUE ON IN YOUR MUSICAL PURSUITS, WHAT ARE YOU MOST EXCITED FOR. Caly: I’m just so excited to keep getting better. We’ve already grown so much together.

It’s so fun to listen to recordings and videos from when we first started, and compare it to our newer material. The growth is so clear and I’m just stoked to keep playing together and improving even more.

Megan: I am most excited for us to start writing our own songs and navigating that part of our journey and process. We’re both so passionate and excited about what we’ve been doing already that I have no doubts that same energy is going to be able to create a lot of amazing music from us.

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| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | AUG 2019

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Contact Eric Shaw, Local Rep 352-497-9707

EVENTS

socially speaking

Glitz Glamour and

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

F

our hooves flying, lathered in sweat, mane and tail fanning out at record speeds with a jockey up in the saddle and whip in hand, champion horses are thoroughbred royalty. Homage was paid at the recent Florida Thoroughbred Breeders’ and Owners’ Association Awards Banquet and Sapphire and Diamonds Gala held in the ballroom of Circle Square Cultural Center. The sold-out fete was packed with glitzy honorees from the thoroughbred world along with our Ocala/Marion County supportive community and business leaders. The evening raised more than $37,000 for Florida Thoroughbred Charities. The thoroughbred industry in the state of Florida has a $11.7 billion dollars economic impact. In 2019 alone there were over $1 billion dollars in thoroughbred sales.

The mayor of Horse Capital of the World, Kent Guinn, was on hand with his wife, San-

dra. An extensive auction included art by famed Remi Bellocq who dazzled with sketches on the spot. He raised more than $4,000 from his appearance. The evening was a Who’s Who of equine pros from Pat Parelli to trick horse trainer Carole Fletcher. Horse Capital Television set up an onsite studio and host Barbara Dawson wore fashion by Dillards and jewels by Gause & Son. The store also donated a $1,500 equestrian themed piece for the evening.

Charlotte Weber’s Live Oak Stud was the diamond sponsor hosting the Live Oak Stud Winner’s Lounge for honorees. New

Josh and Amanda Gonzales

Garrett Owens and Vanessa Nye

Dana and Brian Coy

Lauren Gibson, Jesus Lopez, Alysha Halsteter

Carl Allsop, Elizabeth Weber, Brianna McKathan and Brian Cohen

Crystal Fernund, Alex Castrillo and LA Craven

Ed Plesa, Cathi and Karl Glassman

Jessica Shotwell, Gloria McCoy, Taylor Booker and Erica Torres

Brianna McKathan, Stacey Rollins and Leigh McKathan Christy and Bob Carlson, Vivi Serena and Lauren Slone

sponsor Christopher Whitney of Red Brand observed that his group had a wonderful time and will be back next year.

Social and events committee chair and board member Valerie Dailey said, “The Florida Thoroughbred Charities has been fortunate to have such great support from the entire community. Each year the gala has grown with more business and community members becoming involved. The Circle Square Cultural Center provides a great backdrop for this worthwhile cause.”

Florida Thoroughbred Charities is a non-profit organization and the charitable arm of the FTBOA. FTC is committed to strengthening both the industry and community through events and raising funds. Funds raised go to the Florida Thoroughbred Retirement program. It is the only program in the nation partnering women inmates and thoroughbreds where women learn life skills and equine knowledge that assist them with gainful employment when they are released.

“The FTBOA believes in the care and support of retired thoroughbreds. What makes our particular program different at Lowell Correctional Institute is that it also cares for

and heals people as well as horses,” said Lonny Powell, FTBOA CEO. The star of the night was Horse of the Year Imperial Hint who took home three honors. He was bred by Bert and Martha Pilcher of Shade Tree Thoroughbreds in Reddick.

Mike O’Farrell and his sons Joe and Dave of Ocala Stud were honored with the Joe O’Farrell Memorial Award from Ocala Breeders’ Sales, the Broodmare of the Year, the leading freshman sire with Uncaptured, and Breeder of the Year for the fifth time. The memorial award had special meaning as it was the name of the family patriarch who founded the farm more than 60 years ago.

Chad and Courtney Meagher of Citra, were presented the Needles Award as the state’s small breeders of the year. Bonnie Heath whose family campaigned Needles presented the award. The honor is named after Needles who was the first horse from Florida to win a Kentucky Derby in 1956. Stallion of the Year was First Dude who stands at Donald Dizney’s Double Diamond.

Everyone needs a helping hand to get into the saddle. Make your helping hands especially strong by donating to Florida Thoroughbred Charities, Inc. FOR MORE INFORMATION or to make a donation please visit www.ftboa. com. You can also phone the FTBOA at 352-629-2160.

AUG 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

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Florida Magazine Association

Charlie Awards Gala E

ach year magazines from all over the state of Florida converge for a weekend of learning, networking, and celebrating all of the successes the Florida magazine industry has had this year. The 2019 Florida Media Conference, held at The Vinoy Renaissance St. Petersburg Resort hosted hundreds of guests, panelists, and vendors all eager to see what new trends are on the horizon. Rounding out the weekend with the Florida Magazine Associations Charlie Awards, magazines were awarded for their superior quality and content. On the list of winners was Ocala Magazine taking home five awards over the weekend.

Ronald W. Wetherington, Jessi Miller, Melissa Deskovic, Philip Glassman, Penny Miller, Doug Hummel and Linda Marks

Doug Peacock and Philip Glassman

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Save the

Date E

Photo by Chris Zuppa

Anne Millageâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Florida Magazine Association President, Philip Glassman and Jessi Miller Photo by Chris Zuppa

very year, there are a host of charity events for Ocala/ Marion County citizens to choose from and donate to.

Surely, one of the most popular and ever growing in popularity is Taste at the Farm. It's real. It's authentic. And it's fun. To make a donation to the CF Foundation please go to www.cf.edu/ foundation. Plans are already underway for the CF Foundationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s next Big Event at the Farm and you should save the date of March 7, 2020 as tickets sell out fast.

Debbie and Bill Browder

Linda Behmoiras, Melissa Deskovic, Jessi Miller, Philip Glassman and Ralph Behmoiras

Ashlen Conrad and James Henningsen

AUG 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

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Building Credit with the

Community

Chad Meadows EVP/ Chief Operations Officer, Mireyli Hernandez BVP Ocala Branch, Gil Levy

O

n July 11th Ocala Magazine joined other community leaders for the ribbon cutting of the 51st branch of VyStar Credit Union.

Present for the Ribbon Cutting was Chair of the Board, Eric Hatfield, with Mireyli Hernandez, VP of the Ocala Branch. This three day event included cash and special prize giveaways, new account incentives, and special treats for the kids. This is the first branch in the Ocala area and, as they continue to establish themselves as a financial household name, they are hopeful to continue to grow within the community. We would like to say thank you to Vice President Mireyli Hernandez and the entire VyStar Team for being such gracious hosts.

FOR ALL OF YOUR BANKING NEEDS, stop by and visit at 4614 SW College Rd. Ocala, FL 32615 or call (352) 642-1140 Your VyStar Ocala Team

Donald R Halleck VP Advertising and Promotion, Lance Davis SVP Legal Counsel, Brian Wolfburg President/CEO, Mireyli Hernandez BVP Ocala Branch, (back) Eric Hatfield Chairman Board, Chad Meadows EVP Chief Operations Officer

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| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | AUG 2019

Amanda Crawford VP of Community Engagement & Sponsorship, Nancy Garcia Executive Assistant to the Chief Marketing, Gabrielle Bokretsion Marketing Specialist

Anthony Ortiz

Olivia Ortiz

RJ Jenkins

Couch Sessions at Pi

L

ocal artist Jessi Miller and local DJ Joel Downing entertained a soldout show for their performance at Pi on Broadway. Jessi's exhibit, entitled “The Messengers,” featured the likeness and quotes from some of history’s greatest thinkers and creative minds. People such as Gandhi, Steve Jobs, Nina Simone, John Lennon, Mos Def, and others were all highlighted with their famous words surrounding them.

While Joel Downing spun tracks handpicked for the event, Jessi Miller painted a 36 x 40 canvas of William Shakespear.

Joel Downing and Jessi Miller

FOR MORE INFORMATION on how you can purchase Jessi's work or book Joel for an event:.

Jessi Miller: jessimiller.com emailjessi@yahoo.com Joel Downing: Instagram @mozzarellasticksnearme Couch Sessions is sponsored by the Rielly Arts Center and hosted

by Oliva Ortiz

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etc

Scene Around Ocala Photo by Ralph Demilio

Health Journal p88 | Scoop p92 | Looking Back p96

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ETC

health journal

How the Internet Can Help

Prevent Alzheimer's Disease

PROVIDED BY BRANDPOINT

O

ver the past 10 years, researchers have learned Alzheimer's disease starts much earlier than the onset of symptoms - 10-20 years before an individual, family member or friend might notice the signs of the debilitating disease.

According to the Alzheimer's Association, 5.5 million Americans, of all races and ethnicities, age 65 and older currently live with Alzheimer's disease, which is expected to grow to more than 7 million people by 2025.

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| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | AUG 2019

The first-of-its-kind Alzheimer Prevention Trials Webstudy (APT Webstudy), funded by the National Institutes of Health, aims to increase the pace of research by enlisting thousands of healthy volunteers who can quickly be enrolled in clinical trials focused on preventing Alzheimer's disease. Enrollees in the APT Webstudy can use the internet to help stop the disease while being alerted to changes in their own memory function.

"In order to change the lives of the nu-

merous people and their loved ones who will be affected by Alzheimer's, we need everyone to get involved with prevention efforts," said Paul Aisen, MD, co-principal investigator of the APT Webstudy. "The bigger the army of volunteers, the faster we can work to prevent this terrible disease."

Volunteers can access the Webstudy when and where it is convenient for them, such as on their computer or tablet, or even a public library; anywhere they can access the internet. Volun-

2019 ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE FACTS AND FIGURES ALZHEIMER'S DISEASE IS THE

6

TH

5.8

of seniors say it’s important to have their thinking or memory checked

14

Americans are living with MILLION Alzheimer’s

BY 2050, this number is projected to rise to nearly MILLION

MORE THAN 16 MILLION AMERICANS

provide unpaid care for people with Alzheimer’s or other dementias

These caregivers provided an estimated Infographic provided by the Alzheimer's Association

82 16 %

leading cause of death in the United States

18.5 BILLION HOURS valued at nearly

$234 BILLION IN 2019, Alzheimer’s and other dementias will cost the nation

$290 BILLION

BY 2050, these costs could rise as high as

$1.1 TRILLION

BUT ONLY

%

EVERY 65 SECONDS

say they receive regular cognitive assessments

someone in the United States develops the disease

2000 and while deaths from teersBetween participate in regular online memory test2017 deaths from heart Alzheimer’s disease ing.disease If there is adecreased change in memoryhave function, elhave increased igible volunteers are alerted and may be invited to a no-cost, in-person evaluation at one of the research sites across the country.

"This is an opportunity for everyone to It kills more than help future generations avoid the suffering breast cancer and dies with Aisen caused by seniors Alzheimer's," prostatesaid. cancer"With Alzheimer’s or enough volunteers, we will be one step closer another dementia COMBINED to seeing the first Alzheimer's survivor."

Researchers are looking for a diverse group of people ages 50 or older who have

9%

145%

1 IN 3

normal thinking and memory function.

Volunteers must be willing to answer a few questions about their family and medical history and provide information about their lifestyles. Volunteers will take online memory tests every three months, each one about 20 minutes long.

If you are interested in participating, visit aptwebstudy.org to learn more.

IF YOU ARE INTERESTED in participating, visit aptwebstudy.org to learn more.

© 2019 Alzheimer's Association® | All Rights Reserved | Alzheimer's Association is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization.

AUG 2019 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

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The Future of Laboratory Testing

Now Open in Ocala Recently opened on West SR 200, Select Laboratories is committed to providing accurate, timely testing and dedication to providing the best service and care to the citizens of Ocala.

Select Laboratories Services

About the Prevé Wellness Program

• Phlebotomy and courier • Routine tests • Order entry and results retrieval • Lab-to-practice interface • Panels • Complete Blood Count • Metabolic Profile • Thyroid Profile • Enhanced Coronary Risk Assessments • Hormone panel • Epi ProColon • Inflammation Markers • Coagulation Test • Microbiology • Vitamin Deficiency

Personalized health and wellness offering advanced testing and 24/7 access to personalized, easy-to –read reports, educational resources, and a developing physicians partner network.

Routine testing:

• Advanced Health Check • Vital Organ Check • Advanced Liver Check • Advanced Thyroid Check • Advanced Male/Female Check • Cancer Screening • CellCheck Ultra Monitoring program http://prevewellness.com

11115 SW 93rd Court Road, Suite 100 Ocala, Florida 34481

(352) 389-8088 mc.select.labs.com

SCOOP

ETC

Kiwanis Korner

Get to Know Key Club

A Sporting Event

Addison Ryan Lusher Key Club Member Four Years

F

For More Information Contact: Angie Negron 352-209-5850 Email: ansrg874@gmail.com 92

| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | AUG 2019

ounded in 1925, Key Club International, or more commonly known as Key Club, is the largest and oldest student-led service organization in the world. The purpose of Key Clubs is to develop strong future leaders at their schools and in the community. The students acquire volunteer hours for Bright Futures Scholarship and hopefully later in life they become members of their local Kiwanis club here or in whatever community they reside in.

Marion County currently has students in Key Clubs at area schools. Belleview High School has 45 students, Lake Weir High School has 35 students, Vanguard High School has 95 Students and West Port High School has 135 students. Dunnellon High School with 20 students in their Key Club but is not under the greater Marion County Kiwanis Club.

The high school Key Clubs host and work the annual Pancake Breakfast, one of Kiwanis largest fundraisers; they work in the summers at the Camp Kiwanis for Kids, along with volunteering their time at numerous other Kiwanis and civic or school events. They host their own monthly meetings and work within their schools to make a difference daily.

As the Key Club expands we are hoping to add clubs at both Forest High School and Trinity Catholic High School this next school year with North Marion High School on our radar in the near future.

FOR MORE INFORMATION call Bob Murphy, 352-789-8239, Key Club Advisor, Marion County Kiwanis Club

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Happy Campers

General RV Saves the Day For Boy Scout Troop 111

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ices in Ocala!

www.classichitsocala.com www.facebook.com/classichitsocala

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n April of this year, General RV opened their 13th location right here in Ocala, Florida. With a focus on providing quality camping equipment to its customers,104.7 they have a family-first approach to everything they do. From their humble beginnings in a small gas station in Michigan, they have always put community first. So when a group of boy scouts was in harm’s way, they stepped in and came to the rescue.

On a rainy weekend traveling up from West Palm Beach, scout troop 111 from Royal Palm Beach was on their way to a

fun-filled weekend in Clayton Georiga for their Rainey Mountain Summer Camp when everything went awry.

While traveling on I-75, the bus that was transporting them to their destination suddenly stopped working. One of the workers at General RV Center happened to spot them, and with bad weather and nowhere to go, General Manager Frank Maslanka and his team stepped into action. Hopping on some golf carts and they went to see how they could help. They were able to lift the boys over the fence and take them down to the store. To help keep them entertained the team kept them occupied with snacks, drinks, frisbees, free hats, and a bean bag toss game. One of the older boys was preparing for a Master Exam, so he was given a private office and computer access to help him study.

The scouts were at General RV until 8 pm when another bus was able to take them to their destination. This type of hospitality is what makes a great asset Breaking New them Ground to the Ocala area, and they have proven they live up to their motto “We Keep You Camping.”

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On Display

Ocala’s Semi-Tropical Exposition Showed the Best Ocala Had To Offer

I

n the age of stagecoaches and streetcars, the Semi-Tropical Exposition stood out against the vast Marion County skyline.

With its wooden peaks, numerous windows, and sprawling land, the Exposition was more than a business venture, it was a way for locals to start over after the tragic Thanksgiving fire of 1883 that almost burned down the entire city. The idea was conceived by resident George E. Wilson and the structure was hoisted as part of the rebuilding of Ocala.

Today we would refer to it as a farmers market. However, when the Semi-Tropical Exposition opened in January of 1888 it was more than just local produce and wares. It was an experience. Located on 40 acres the beautiful building located on West Broadway, housed all manner of agricultural, horticultural, and commercial exhibitions. Local travelers would come from miles around via stagecoach, horseback, streetcar, and railway to spend the day walking among the lush

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greenery and fresh produce. Women would gather to shop as the men would enjoy freshly rolled cigars from Ocala’s flourishing cigar makers that had set up shop. Musicians would entertain the crowds with the musical stylings of the day as guests would dance gracefully in the ballroom.

Local pageantry was always a lively affair, and the “Queen of Love and Beauty” was at the forefront of the scene, and a grand gala always followed their events. Pageants were not the only draw. Sports teams, local schools, and even other counties would reserve portions of the building for private parties, political affiliation meetings, and other uses. Since the Exposition was not open full time, there was ample opportunity for private citizens to rent out portions of the exposition halls for various functions.

The Semi-Tropical Exposition was designed to show the best that Marion County had to offer, and it did just that. However, the enthusiasm over this attraction would not last long as

within two years it would be financially drained.

Board members attempted every last-ditch effort to help keep the facility open, but rising costs proved too much to overcome. While initial attendance was lucrative, it was unsustainable and eventually, they had to close their doors for good.

Sadly, in an unfortunate twist of irony, the building that helped Ocala’s economy rise after the historic fire, burned to the ground.

Even though the Exposition was no longer in use, the benefit of its existence can be seen today. Many of the tobacco farmers and cigar rollers that set up shop in the exhibition decided to make their home in Ocala a permanent one.

Continuing their business here in Marion County, they built homes and established businesses.

This action encouraged others to establish roots in Marion County, and thus, schools, roadways, churches, and companies began to spread. Even though the Semi-Tropical Exposition was shortlived its influence still lives on.

Photos courtesy of HOPS

BY THE HISTORIC OCALA PRESERVATION SOCIETY

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