Ocala Magazine December 2020 issue

$5.95

Celebrating

40 Years!

OCALA MAGAZINE

DEC 2020

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

2020 Better Than the Best Pets of Influence O, Tannenbaum!

A Christmas Tree History Deliciously Themed Gift Baskets

Adieu, 2020!

R E A LTO R ÂŽ

2020 Sold Properties Pending

Pending

Wishing You Happy Holidays and a

nd a Prosperous New Year!

Thank You

As we approach the holiday season, let’s look back on our cherished memories. Since most of us won’t be sharing the holidays with our loved ones this year, reflect back on previous years spent with family and friends. Have a holiday visit using Face time or Zoom. I am grateful for all our front line heroes to everyday citizens for their time and work which they have given to our Country to help us through the stressful times of 2020. May 2021 prove to be a better year for all of us. A warm “Thank You” to all of our friends, customers and clients who have entrusted us with their Real Estate business this year.

It’s been a very successful year with God’s blessings of properties Seller’s properties selling and Buyer’s finding the right property whether small or large. I am truly blessed with a great team: Bonnie Kash, Francis Galvez, and my husband J.J.

ring buying or If you’re conside all today! c selling, give us a R E A LTO R ® For these and other properties, visit JoanPletcher.com for information, videos, and more choices.

352.347.1777 | Cell: 352.266.9100 | Cell: 352.804.8989 | joan@joanpletcher.com

Due to the privacy and at the discretion of my clients, there are additional training centers, estates, and land available that are not advertised.

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DECEMBER • 2020 FEATURES 16 28 34 40

2020 Better than the Best Requiem for 2020 O, Tannenbaum!

Pets of Influence

DEPARTMENTS 10 12

Publisher’s Letter From the Mayor

47 48 52

EAT Deliciously Themed Gift Baskets Dining Out

57 PLAY 58 Socially Speaking 60 Anthology: Poetry in Motion 63 EQUINE 64 Everything Equine 68 The Original EquinistaTM

ON THE COVER:

$5.95

Celebrating

40 Years!

Photography Ralph Demilio Model Katie Reece Clothes Dillard's Ocala

6

| DEC 2020 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

OCALA MAGAZINE

DEC 2020

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

2020 Better Than the Best Pets of Influence O, Tannenbaum!

A Christmas Tree History Deliciously Themed Gift Baskets

Adieu, 2020!

71 ETC 72 Charity Spotlight:

Marion County Humane Society 76 Health Journal 78 State of the City 80 State of the County 82 Kiwanis Korner 84 Rotary Circle 88 Looking Back

Equestrian Lifestyle Gifts H Decor H Apparel

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OM Volume 40, Issue 6

DECEMBER 2020

OCALA’S #1 MOST AWARD-WINNING CITY MAGAZINE

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

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

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

ART

CONTRIBUTORS

Carlton Reese | Editor in Chief carlton@ocalamagazine.com

Jessi Miller | Creative Director jessi@ocalamagazine.com

Robin Fannon | Food/Lifestyle Editor

PHOTOGRAPHY

Alex AuBuchon/Marion County | Writer Louisa Barton | Writer Ashley Dobbs/City of Ocala | Writer Chris Gerbasi | Writer Mayor Kent Guinn | Columnist Katie Reece | Model L.A. Sokolowski | Writer Jade Villagomez | Model

EDITORIAL

Ralph Demilio | Chief Photographer ralph@ocalamagazine.com OPERATIONS Randy Woodruff, CPA | CFO randy@ocalamagazine.com Doug Hummel | Director of I.T.

ADVISORY Linda Marks | Founder & Advisor

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 2020 International Women's Day EXCLUSIVE MEDIA SPONSOR FOR George Albright Annual Golf Tournament OFFICIAL MEDIA SPONSOR FOR FINE ARTS FOR OCALA

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COPYRIGHT ALL contents copyrighted © 2020 by Ocala Magazine Publications. All rights reserved.

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

8

| DEC 2020 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

LETTER

from the publisher

Adieu, 2020 WE SAY GOODBYE TO THE YEAR 2020 and it seems to be a unanimous feeling that it was definitely the toughest of recent memory.

As for me, the hardest part was the quarantine that took place in late spring. That meant no fine dining, no traveling and no social interaction of any sort. To those who know me, they know this was triple jeopardy, especially the fine dining part which is sort of a hobby of mine, a lifestyle so to speak.

Along with the quarantine came the closings of my nightclubs, which was actually a blessing in disguise. Taking me out of the bar business allowed me to focus on my commercial real estate business and, of course, Ocala Magazine. Hopefully, many of you found some blessings as well in the middle of this mess of a year.

Every dark cloud has a silver lining and this year was no exception. With the quarantine and lockdowns came the opportunity to foster a more deeply rooted connection with my kids. With the phone not ringing, business meetings not taking place and professional activity in general coming to a halt, the duty of being a father never ceased.

With more time to dedicate to the kids we wer e able to take walks in the neighborhood, play board games in the house and spend time with each other without nagging interruptions. On the whole, a connection was made that likely would not have been as strong without the quarantine.

Another connection was made: my kids and their pets. Being able to spend more time with the pets created an even tighter bond with them than had existed before and I don’t think this should be discounted as trivial. Pets are a vital part of family life and the growing process – we experience unconditional love, joy and eventual sadness with our pets. It’s all part of life’s lessons.

On the subject of pets, I’d like to mention our Charity of the Month, Marion County Humane Society. The MCHS has always been a favorite of mine and especially my entire family thanks to their efforts in rescuing and rehabilitating animals and eventually finding good homes for them. The MCHS has been here my entire life and continues to be “Better Than The Best” among charitable causes. Animals cannot speak for themselves and need advocates, of which MCHS has become as a no-kill shelter for animals.

You will notice some MCHS animals in our “Pets of Influence” feature and hopefully some of you will be inspired to adopt one or more of these innocent creatures.

We now put 2020 to bed and look forward to a 2021 with greater promise, a year hopefully without masks but with open restaurants, businesses and the social gatherings we have come to know and love as Americans.

I would also like to thank the staff here at Ocala Magazine for its work in taking this magazine to the next level and into a very bright future!

Until next month,

PHILIP GLASSMAN, PUBLISHER

10

| DEC 2020 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

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MAYOR

from the

Greg’s Five Rules

BY MAYOR KENT GUINN

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| DEC 2020 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

Photos courtesy of Kent Guinn

W

hen Greg Graham passed away last month, the city of Ocala lost a great police chief and a dear friend of the community. Though we will all miss him dearly, we can still take comfort in that his strong legacy still drives the police department in so many positive ways.

He had a certain philosophy and a way of getting things done that will remain a part of the department’s code as well as a part of my own methodology. We recall “Greg’s Five Rules” that he made sure were ingrained in every officer and they are ones that are relevant to just about anybody and I would like to share them here.

Greg’s first rule was simple, but important: Do the right thing.

For Greg, this meant more than just the words, which were vital enough on their own.

What this means is that you ultimately trust that people around you actually know what the right thing is. We hired them and did all the background checks so you must assume they know what the right thing is to do.

Greg made it perfectly clear to his officers, saying “I don’t have to tell you; you know what the right thing is.”

His second rule may have been the most important in terms of operations: Ask for forgiveness rather than permission.

Greg said, “If you see something that needs to be done, and it is the right thing to do, then do it; you don’t have to go to your supervisor to say if it is all right to do this.”

In other words, if you make a mistake in doing the right thing, it’s okay, we’ll fix it. Greg would say “I’d rather have you do that then have something not done and find out later. If it’s right in front of you, take care of it.”

I remember Greg telling me once about the time he was first hired Chief Greg Graham swearing in with Tricia Camp and Mayor Kent Guinn as chief of police in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. He was back in Ocala gathering items and about to head to his new position when massive flooding was taking place in Cedar Rapids. Against the wishes of the city manager, “If you see something Graham told his officers to block the highway and not let anyone downtown. He knew it was the thing to do and wasn’t going to wait for permission. that needs to be done, right In this case, Graham’s instincts proved correct as what would turn out to be one of the and it is the right thing largest natural disasters in the country could have proven more fatal without Graham’s instructo do, then do it; you tion. He was even recognized by President Bush at the time for how he handled the situation.

Greg’s third rule: Look for ways to say ‘yes.’ don’t have to go to Greg lived by this rule to the nth degree and I myself was able to learn from it. This rule is especially important in government as it is in the business world and is the product of a your supervisor to say if mindset rooted in the positive outlook of people. it is all right to do this.”

So often we are tied up by our own rules and regulations that it seems easy to say ‘no,’ but that was not Greg. He looked at many situations as opportunities to say ‘yes,’ even when it —Greg Graham seemed the least expedient course of action.

People would often call me and say they would like to hold some event or do some-

Photo by John Jernigan

thing else, and my response would be to say we need to check it out with the chief.

After calling Greg, he would almost always say, “just tell them yes – we’ll figure a way to work it out.”

It’s important to look for ways to say ‘yes’ to your citizens, the same way the owner of a business needs to look for ways to say ‘yes’ to a customer.

Even in the case of someone getting a traffic ticket, if the person was forthright and asked if there was any way to not be written up, Greg would see that as an opportunity to find way to say ‘yes.’

Greg’s fourth rule: Treat everyone with respect.

In law enforcement, one deals with criminals, billionaires and everyone in between including homeless and vagrant people. To Greg, the person’s status was irrelevant to how they should be treated – all were due proper respect from himself and his officers.

Chief Greg Graham with NYPD Chief Mike Balken

Greg understood that when you speak in respectful terms, saying ‘yes, sir;’ ‘no, sir;’ and ‘please’ and ‘thank you,’ that respect is generally returned in kind. Talking down to people likely results in abrasiveness and a needless escalation of a situation.

It may not seem like that difficult a thing, but to be an officer chasing down a murder or burglary suspect then have to turn down the adrenaline level for a respectful dialogue with this person is quite a feat. I’ve seen our officers arrest people that were involved in shootings and drugs and seen them care for those people and help them out numerous times.

It’s something Greg imparted to his officers and something that I have been able to incorporate into my own way of thinking and dealing with people.

Greg’s fifth rule: Have fun.

This was easy for Greg. He was a skydiver, a scuba diver – he rode motorcycles.

He was very serious about his job, but also felt that it was important that he and others enjoyed what they did for a living. Once you enjoy your job it no longer becomes work, and Greg was certainly one who enjoyed his work.

He was all about having a good time, but was very serious when you needed him to be. He impacted a lot of lives and encouraged people to take initiative in following their dreams – nothing was impossible.

There were certainly critics of the process involving the appointment of Graham, but in the end I would have to say that bringing Greg Graham on board was the best decision I made as mayor. It’s also safe to say that Greg leaves us with a department better than we he found it. I think it’s safe to say also that Greg leaves those who knew him better than they were when they first met. I know I am.

Mayor Kent Guinn

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | DEC 2020 |

13

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Water is finite, we can help protect it.

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

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

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OM

Better

BEST T H A N

T H E

2020

Every year keeps getting BETTER. Ocala Magazine recognizes our community’s best businesses and service organizations, voted by our readers, with all new categories among time-tested favorites. The people have voted.

Here are YOUR 2020 Better than the Best results!

PHOTOGRAPHY BY RALPH DEMILIO

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| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | DEC 2020

BEST DRESSED FEMALE: ANGIE LEWIS

Runners-up: Evelyn Nussel, Candice Christian

BEST INSURANCE AGENCY: ANGIE LEWIS STATE FARM

BEST ALTERNATIVE WELLNESS: OFMC WELLNESS

Runners-up: Faithfully Guided Health Center, Absolute Health Ocala Top Write-In: Pulse Center, Recharge Clinic

Runners-up: Ocala Insurance Agency, Drew Ditty All-State Top Write-In: Bradshaw State Farm

BEST PHOTOGRAPHER: SARAH MILLER

Runners-up: Dave Miller, Mark Emery

BEST PERSONAL TRAINER: CLINT HART

Runners-up: Tyla Kennedy, Traci Rivera

BEST BARBECUE: BIG LEE’S

Runners-up: Sonny’s, Brick City Southern Kitchen and Whiskey Bar Top Write-In: Artman’s Smokehouse

BEST DRESSED MALE: LEWIS STOKES

Runners-up: Ricky DeJesus, E.J. Nieves

BEST SOUTHERN FOOD: IVY ON THE SQUARE

Runners-up: Brick City Southern Kitchen and Whiskey Bar, Cracker Barrel Top Write-In: Brooklyn’s Backyard

DEC 2020 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

17

BEST BAR FOR LIVE MUSIC: BANK STREET PATIO BAR

Runners-up: Pi on Broadway, Charlie Horse Top Write-In: Black Sheep on Broadway, 100 Proof

BEST THRIFT STORE: WHITE ELEPHANT

Runners-up: The Monkey Cage, The Mustard Seed Collection Top Write-In: Kids Stuff

BEST VISUAL ARTIST: E.J. NIEVES

Runners-up: Teddy Sykes, Melissa Fiorentino

BEST ASSISTED LIVING FACILITY: HAWTHORNE VILLAGE

Runners-up: The Bridge at Life Care Center, Camelot Chateau Top Write-In: Bridgewater Park

18

| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | DEC 2020

BEST AESTHETICIAN: OFMC DERMATOLOGY AND AESTHETICS INSTITUTE

Runners-up: Nirvana Medical Spa, Beyond Skin

BEST SERVICE CLUB: OCALA SHRINE CLUB

Rotary Club, Junior League Top Write-In: Girl Scouts Runners-up:

BEST RETIREMENT COMMUNITY: ON TOP OF THE WORLD Runners-up: Top Write-In:

Trilogy, Stone Creek SummerGlen

BEST ANTIQUE STORE: WHITE ELEPHANT Runners-up:

Two Sisters, Ole Cracker

House Ocala Antique Mall and Estates Top Write-In:

BEST PLACE TO SWIM: RAINBOW SPRINGS Runners-up:

Juniper Springs, Alexander

Springs Top Write-In:

BEST PLACE TO SEE A SHOW: REILLY ARTS CENTER

Silver Glen

BEST CAVE: OCALA CAVERNS

Runners-up: Scott Springs, Hitchhikers Cave Top Write-In: Devils’ Den

Runners-up: Marion Theatre, Ocala Civic Theatre To Write-In:

Southeastern Livestock Pavilion

DEC 2020 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

19

BEST BARBERSHOP: BIG AL’S

Runners-up: Roland’s Barbershop, Nick’s Top Write-In: High Class Barber Spa

BEST BOUTIQUE: IVY ON THE SQUARE

Runners-up: Marley Mae Market & Paperie, Pink Hanger Top Write-In: Serendipity

BEST SUMMER KIDS PROGRAM: YMCA Runners-up:

Discovery Center, Camp

Kiwanis Top Write-In:

20

Martial Arts Center

| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | DEC 2020

BEST ATTORNEY: DANIEL HIGHTOWER

Runners-up: Doc Blanchard, Cannon Law Firm Top Write-In: Riggins Law Firm

BEST DENTIST: OCALA FAMILY DENTISTRY

Runners-up: Chandra Smile Designs, Dr. Quinn Family Dentistry Top Write-In: Grand Oaks

BEST ELECTRICIAN: MID-STATE ELECTRIC Runners-up:

Ciraco Electric, Kuhn

Electric Top Write-In:

Roam Electric

BEST PEDIATRICS: OCALA PEDIATRICS

Runners-up: Children’s Health of Ocala, Heart of Florida Medical Center Top Write-In: Marion Pediatrics

BEST PLACE TO NETWORK: OCALA BUSINESS LEADERS

Runners-up: CEP After Hours, Business Network International Top Write-In: Hispanic Business Council

BEST LAWN CARE PROFESSIONAL: A CUT ABOVE LAWN CARE

Jason Schmidt Landscaping, Marion Precision & Lawn Care Top Write-In: Clean Cut Lawn Care Runners-up:

BEST NAIL PROFESSIONAL: AZULENE DAY SPA

Runners-up: Face the Day Salon and Spa, Happy Nails Spa and Salon Top Write-In: Premiere Hair and Nail

BEST FOOD TRUCK: BIG LEE’S BBQ

Runners-up: Smokin Swamp BBQ, Curbside Cuisine Top Write-In: Charlie’s Pinchos

BEST MEDICAL FACILITY: ADVENTHEALTH OCALA

BEST PET GROOMER: DOGGY BUBBLES

Ocala Family Medical Center, Ocala Regional Medical Center Top Write-In: Family Care Specialists Runners-up:

Perfect Paws, Prefurred Pet Wash and Grooming Top Write-In: The Works, Gypsy Groomer, Dog House Runners-up:

DEC 2020 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

21

BEST PIZZA: BROOKLYN’S BACKYARD

Lorito’s Italian Kitchen, Blue Highway Top Write-In: (tie) Wise Guys, Piesano’s, Formaggio’s Runners-up:

BEST CHIROPRACTOR: FAKHOURY MEDICAL AND CHIROPRACTIC CENTER

Pitts Family Chiropractic, Downtown Chiropractic and Wellness Top Write-In: Stenfield Chiropractic Runners-up:

BEST AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR: DON’S GARAGE

Runners-up: Patrick’s Auto & Truck Repair, Firestone Complete Auto Care Top Write-In: Spencer’s

BEST RADIO PERSONALITY: LEWIS STOKES (K COUNTRY)

Hunter & Parker (Wind FM), Jen Ryan (Q92) Top Write-In: Bob Rose (97.3 The Sky) Runners-up:

BEST COMMERCIAL REALTOR: VAN AKIN FOXFIRE

Runners-up: Nolan Galloway II, Philip Glassman Birkshire Hathaway Top Write-In: Beau Broker

BEST RESIDENTIAL REALTOR: ROBERTS REAL ESTATE

Runners-up: Ocala Horse Properties, Carolyn Roberts Top Write-In: Allie Jara

BEST AUTO DEALER: DELUCA TOYOTA

Jenkins Auto, Ford of Ocala Top Write-In: Automax Runners-up:

22

| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | DEC 2020

BEST HAIR SALON: FACE THE DAY SALON & SPA

Runners-up: Hello Gorgeous, Enve @ Salon 209 Top Write-In: Salon Bliss

BEST CATERER: MOJO’S GRILL AND CATERING

Runners-up: 3’s Catering, Brick City Catering Top Write-In: Pasta Faire

BEST EVENT DJ: DJ ROCKET Runners-up: Top Write-In:

Just Joel, Joe Ortiz Matt Gray

BEST VETERINARY FACILITY: MAGNOLIA ANIMAL HOSPITAL

Runners-up: Maricamp Animal Hospital, UF Pet Emergency Treatment Services Top Write-In: Town and Country

BEST JEWELER: GAUSE & SONS

Lady Jeweler, Silver City Top Write-In: Kay Jeweler Runners-up:

BEST FAMILY RESTAURANT: MOJO’S GRILL

Runners-up: Brooklyn’s Backyard, Gator’s Dockside Top Write-In: Pasta Faire

DEC 2020 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

23

BEST HOTEL: OCALA HILTON

Hilton Garden Inn, Holiday Inn Express & Conference Center Top Write-In: Marriott Runners-up:

BEST PHYSICAL THERAPY FACILITY: STRIVE PHYSICAL THERAPY AND REHABILITATION

Runners-up: Fakhoury Medical and Chiropractic, Mid-Florida Physical Therapy Top Write-In: Alpha Rehabilitation

BEST TATTOO: FAT KAT ARTISTRY

Runners-up: Crawling Panther, Tattoo Gallery of Ocala Top Write-In: Infidels Ink

BEST BREAKFAST: (TIE) SCRAMBLES, DARRELL’S DINER

Runners-up: First Watch, The Gathering Cafe Top Write-In: Wolfy’s

BEST GYM: THE ZONE HEALTH AND FITNESS Runners-up: Top Write-In:

Planet Fitness, YMCA Healthy Harts

BEST HOME BUILDER: ARMSTRONG HOMES Runners-up: Top Write-In:

24

Fabian Construction, Boyd Straightline

| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | DEC 2020

BEST COFFEE: SYMMETRY COFFEE & CREPES

BEST PLACE TO PICNIC: SHOLOM PARK

Runners-up: Tuscawilla Park, Greenway Trail Top Write-In: Silver Springs

Runners-up: Starbuck’s, Chelsea Coffee Co. Top Write-in: The Gathering Cafe

BEST NONRETIREMENT COMMUNITY GOLF COURSE: GOLDEN OCALA

Runners-up: Country Club of Ocala, Ocala Golf Club, Juliette Falls

Lake Weir Lake Weir PROPERTY Shown By Appointment Only

Custom-Built Brick Home with Impressive Floor Plan and Luxury Upgrades • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

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

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT

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

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

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

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BEST RETIREMENT COMMUNITY GOLF COURSE: TRILOGY Runners-up: Top Write-In:

Stone Creek, Stone Crest SummerGlen

BEST PLACE TO ORDER A CAKE: BETTY CAKES

Runners-up: J Marie Cheesecakes, Stella’s Modern Pantry Top Write-In: Publix

BEST CHEF: RANDALL WHITE (MARK’S PRIME)

Patrice Perron (La Cuisine), Tony Deras (Katya Vineyards) Top Write-In: Loring Felix (Fiery Chef) Runners-up:

BEST BARTENDER: BEN PAYNE (PI)

Runners-up: Billy Pickering (Ivy on the Square), Buck Martin (Tipsy Skipper) Top Write-In: Charlotte Petersen (Oxford Downs)

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| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | DEC 2020

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Requiem for Personal ruminations of the year we're all happy to bid adieu

BY CARLTON REESE

L

ooking back to December 31, 2019, it seemed like such a glorious time, rife with cheering masses huddled together on town squares across the country, all in unison counting down the end of a year filled with unprecedented prosperity amid eager anticipation of a new year filled with even greater promise.

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There would be a sold-out Super Bowl followed by Valentine’s Day dinners celebrated without shame in crowded restaurants, spring breakers cavorting on beaches while weddings and bar mitzvahs carried on as they had for thousands of years. Large movie theater audiences belied the pending demise of Hollywood and standing in line

at the DMV was something that took place entirely indoors, elbow-to-elbow.

We were breathing in poison and didn’t even know it.

The innocence of it all now seems like from another dimension. We were enjoying the party on Oct. 23, 1929, taking a picnic on Dec. 6, 1941, preparing for the weekend’s

tailgate on Sept. 10, 2001. What lay ahead was mostly growing 401Ks and debates over such trite matters as tariff policy and transgender bathrooms.

Or so we thought.

When we recall the year 2020, will anyone remember the happy moments, or will the reminiscing be a simple laundry list of human tragedy and natural disaster? Shakespeare wrote that, “The evil that men do lives after them; the good is oft interred with their bones.” So it is now with our eulogy of 2020 – any good incurred in this year of pandemic fears, riots and wildfires will surely be lost to memory.

Once COVID-19 entered the daily lexicon in mid-March, we all acquiesced in turning the world upside down. A virus birthed in 2019 and shrouded in medical mystery ruffled few feathers as it remained confined to the nether regions of the Orient.

But just as a cancer metastasizes slowly over time, so did the fears of this virus and how that fear could be tethered to civil obedience.

Remember, “flatten the curve?” How silly of us to think we were to completely shut down our lives, become hermits for several weeks and thereby assure hospitals did not become overrun beyond capacity. And once that goal was achieved, we could go on our merry way.

What was a reasonable mantra that nearly everyone graciously goose-stepped into submission, can now be seen as the proverbial camel’s nose under the tent. The people’s sheepish capitulation to the demands of an entrenched bureaucracy ensured the coronavirus hill would be a much more arduous climb.

Shut down the restaurants, board up the theatres, send the children home from school – lock yourselves indoors so vacancies are maintained in the hospitals. Even those with the most rudimentary of education in economics could see the collateral damage on the horizon: mass unemployment, depression, alcoholism, suicide, bitterness, submission . . . in all, a quality of life reduced to the joy of a Russian breadline.

We’ve treated a nasty papercut as though it were a gangrenous limb relegated to amputation.

What started as temporary isolation and responsible social distancing slowly morphed into mass societal lockdowns and mandatory

When we recall the year 2020, will anyone remember the happy moments, or will the reminiscing be a simple laundry list of human tragedy and natural disaster?

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | DEC 2020 |

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Everyone must get in on the act – athletes and actors, school boards and corporate boards, pundits and politicians.

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mask requirements. What started as “flatten the curve” quickly turned to “eradicate the virus.” What started as a scientific curiosity worthy of study and trepidation grew into a political war unsurprisingly loaded with shallow platitudes and expedient blame.

We now have before us the greatest threat to the American concept of freedom since the Alien and Sedition Acts. Who could love such a scenario? Jeff Bezos, Bill Gates, Mark Zuckerberg and a salivating political class hoping to expand centralized power, that’s who.

Now we brace for “the new normal,” the ipecac of adages if there ever was one. What is that “normal” supposed to be? A world of humans stripped of their humanity? A dispirited population that looks to their overlords and oligarchs for daily direction?

Human interaction reduced to the edicts of cyber gatekeepers?

We now live in a world where the masked plebes make every gathering resemble the operating room of the 4077th MASH. Beware those who demand masks and lockdowns – one hand is pointing a finger of derision at you and the other is covertly waving measures of tyranny through the back door.

Thanks to COVID-19, we finally learned that some of us are “essential.” By extension, most of us are not essential. What an incredible message to send to a battered public! Your lives really have no meaning?

Sounds a bit like prepping the world for a return to serfdom.

In 2020 we may have reached “peak grandstand” with the coronavirus, yet another vehicle for the self-absorbed to shame others for not turning recluse or wearing a mask, the greatest placebo since the Perkins Patent Tractor. No definitive study has ever scientifically proven the need for such Draconian measures, but to the grandstanders among us this is irrelevant – the opportunity for virtue signaling is just too great to pass

up. Why tend to your fears by staying safe at home when you can wander out in public to castigate those citizens who seem to care nothing about your welfare?

The 2020 grandstanders included not just governors and city council members hellbent on throwing around their political weight, but also millionaire athletes taking a knee during the national anthem all the while donning and pitching the product of slave labor. You see, it’s easy to light a beacon aimed at your own virtue when you have everything, ill-gotten or otherwise.

We’ve become numb to the grandstanding of politicians – we expect nothing more from such low-resolution thinkers. But in this age, when everyone with a phone is a photographer and everyone with a laptop is a journalist, anyone with issues of self-loathing and self-ascribed piety is also a master of the pulpit, one whose morality must be paraded in front of all.

Everyone must get in on the act – athletes and actors, school boards and corporate boards, pundits and politicians – all to demonstrate that it is they who are not the problem in society, but you. You, the person with calloused hands a million miles from privilege; you, the person who merely wants to put food on the family table; you, the person who puts in an honest day’s work and asks merely for that small opportunity and nothing more – you are to blame. You are to blame for spreading a virus, for perpetuating racism, for spewing carbon into the atmosphere . . . for being human.

To reduce 2020 to simply one component – COVID – may be somewhat accurate, but it would also be a bit unfair. How about an accounting for 2020, then?

This year brought riots to multiple cities where the inflamed passions seemed to hurt everyone and advanced no cause at all, except perhaps anarchy itself. They led to the toppling of statues which seemingly cured so many ills and drew the admiration of Taliban and ISIS leaders who described the actions as

Many thought compassion and selflessness had died in this new millennium of selfies and microaggressions, but we discovered otherwise. “inspiring but a bit amateur.” Perhaps 2021 will bring more professional craftsmanship to the discipline of statue destruction.

We saw video footage of black men killed during incarceration, then no meaningful dialogue or action about what we all had witnessed. What ensued was a summer of rioters burning Portland and turning over six blocks of downtown Seattle into a giant shanty town. And this benefitted who?

In 2020, wildfires burned over 4 million acres in California alone, and we were told it was because of automobiles and flatulent cows. Interesting how back east where clearing of underbrush, pruning around power lines and other means of preventative forestry take place there does not seem to be an issue with cars or gaseous cattle.

Up to this point, everything mentioned has been our own fault, the result of an incredible hubris on the part of the ruling gentry. People imposed upon themselves isolation and lockdowns; people destroyed property and were given permission to do so; people started the wildfires and implemented the policies that exacerbated all the ensuing destruction. None of this was inevitable.

The good news is that much of this human tragedy left us in central Florida out of the line of fire. Lockdowns were not permanent, the iron boot of government fiat has not held sway, and life continues, hardship and all.

Even the record hurricane season inflicted its damage elsewhere.

The year 2020 took from us Neil Peart, the Buddy Rich of the next generation; Charlie Daniels, who made country music hip and loud; and Edward Wolfgang Van Halen, who showed rock and roll need not loathe the world, but celebrate it and with a

To reduce 2020 to simply one component – COVID – may be somewhat accurate, but it would also be a bit unfair.

virtuosity worthy of a Vienna master. Many others were taken, but in this respect 2020 is no different than any other year.

What made 2020 different was the deaths of our own loved ones, forced to pass away unsung. While crowds gathered for memorials of prominent individuals elsewhere, those of us who followed the rules never could honor those close to us. A celebration of life for Millie Massey and Dick Rath was never earned more for two individuals, yet we wait for permission to gather and honor these two locals that left indelible marks on the people of this community. Sadly, nearly everyone has a deceased loved one that has not been afforded the proper goodbye.

Our eulogy for 2020 renders little in the realm of joyous reminiscence, so we grasp at straws in search of any morsel of elation. The Rays made it to the World Series, but if a tree falls and no one is there to hear it, did it actually fall?

Sifting through the rubble of 2020 we find resiliency among a whole population of people willing to put their lives on hold for the perceived benefit of saving others. Many thought compassion and selflessness had died in this new millennium of selfies and microaggressions, but we discovered otherwise.

In Marion County, the schools reopened and teachers were there for our kids.

Crowds gathered at MCYFL on Saturdays to watch their children play and cheer, unapologetic and unscathed. Retail stores, restaurants and art galleries welcomed their guests in a courageous effort to bring back normalcy to a weary citizenry.

Perhaps our reflection should be on where we would all be if we lived elsewhere. Lockdowns and lootings, wildfires and mobs – they have mainly left us alone in the Horse Capital of the World and we pray it remains so.

Can we count on 2021 as a bounce back year? As tempting as it may be to ponder a more serendipitous future, let’s just get through the month of December with our sanity intact, shall we?

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | DEC 2020 |

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O,Ta n Rooted in history, Christmas trees still carry relevance and beauty in the modern world

BY CHRIS GERBASI

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| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | DEC 2020

a nnenbaum!

W

hen the lights shine, the tinsel sparkles and the ornaments glitter, it’s easy to be blinded to the true meaning of a Christmas tree.

The symbolism of the Christmas tree, however, is as enduring as an evergreen itself. Ancient cultures displayed evergreens during the winter months to represent the life that would return in spring.

Today, people of many faiths in Ocala still recognize evergreen trees not only as a staple of Christmastime but also as a sign of hope.

Joyce Urban, an Ocala resident and member of First Love Church, spends her Christmas season melding the secular joys of the holiday with her strong faith, and a tree is at the center of it.

“I like the live trees. They’re evergreen, which goes along with my faith that God is forever present,” Urban said. “I think it’s a symbol of hope and a symbol of trust in the future that we’re hoping to have a better year next year.”

Urban is well-known to visitors at the Appleton Museum of Art, which displayed her family’s numerous donated Christmas decorations annually for about 10 years. Unfortunately, COVID-19 prevented this year’s exhibit for health concerns, though the museum is open on a limited basis with safety guidelines.

Urban’s collection of Christmas items numbers in the tens of thousands, many of which are stored at the museum. Her donations include several trees designed with themes, such as patriotism, a Charles Dickens village,

nativity scenes and the ornaments of artist Patience Brewster.

Evergreens are important symbols of rebirth and renewal because they are always green, said Patricia Tomlinson, Appleton’s curator of exhibitions.

For example, plants and trees that remained green all year had a special meaning in the winter for the ancient peoples of Egypt and Rome, who hung evergreen boughs over their doors to symbolize the triumph of life over death, according to history.com.

The first “known” Christmas tree was displayed in the 16th or 17th century, though there is some debate about that fact, Tomlinson said.

The tradition as we celebrate it today – decorating the tree, lighting candles – appears to have originated in Germany, and German immigrants brought the tradition to the United States in the 1800s.

She said the modern concept of having a tree up the entire holiday season is a relatively new one; originally, the tree would be brought inside and decorated on Christmas Eve. At the Urban household, Joyce maintains two live trees, one in the living room and one in the master bedroom. Among the longtime family ornaments, the oldest is a heavy red ball about the size of a grapefruit that came from Urban’s great-grandfather, making it more than 100 years old.

The living room tree is traditionally topped with a needlepoint angel made by Urban’s mother.

Urban’s passion for the holiday

started in childhood.

“We lived around the Philadelphia area, and the big department stores would have big Christmas displays leading up to Santa, and that was always a really happy time for me,” she said.

After graduating from college and becoming a registered nurse, Urban bought her first holiday decoration, which blended secular and religious images: a small statue of Santa Claus kneeling over the baby Jesus. That item now is part of the museum collection.

Once Urban started a family – she and husband Paul have four grown daughters – she shared her love of Christmas with her children, and the bond between the holiday and her faith grew stronger.

“That’s why the first ornament (I bought), that statue of Santa over the baby Jesus, is so very, very important to me,” she said.

Urban has found kindred spirits at First Love, a nondenominational church at 2529 N. Magnolia Ave. Christmas trees, small evergreens, wreaths and other greenery make up the holiday displays during the advent season, said Heather Drake, co-pastor of the church along with her husband, Dennis. Advent is the period leading up to Dec. 25 when Christians prepare their hearts and minds for Christmas.

She noted the Christmas tree’s origin as part of Christian celebrations in Germany, and cited folklore stating that Martin Luther, the 16th-century Protestant reformer, first added lighted

DEC 2020 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

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candles to a tree inside his home. “(He) was walking through a forest and was overwhelmed with just this feeling of peace as he looked up at the stars and the trees,” Drake said. “So, he went home and re-created it for his children by wiring candles into the evergreens.”

The idea of bringing evergreens into the church and homes became a tradition in the Protestant Church, reminding people that during the season of winter and darkness, there was a promise of life, hope and beauty, she said.

“People recognize the power of beauty, and Christmas trees are beautiful,” Drake said.

First Love Church traditionally tops its tree with a star, she added.

“There’s so much symbolism in the idea of light bringing us to Christ – going back to very early in stories where the wise men come and find Jesus in the manger by following the star,” Drake said. “For our particular attention or focus, we always use a star.”

Grace Episcopal Church displays a Christmas tree in its sanctuary, but it’s the ornaments more than the tree that carry meaning for the congregation, said Rev. Jonathan French, rector of the church at 503 SE Broadway St. Ornaments called Chrismons are placed on the tree, and the Chrismon tree is put up during the first week of advent in November.

December 25 marks the coronation of the first coming of Christ, he said.

“The ornaments have Christian symbolism to them that really are designed to

Decorating the tree has changed radically from those days in Germany centuries ago.

draw our minds and imagination and spirit to what happened on that first coming of Christ, so it’s designed to heighten our awareness of the advent season,” French said.

Naturally, many people want to bring the church’s majesty of a decorated tree to their home. And real trees still beat artificial trees, said Maryanne Wines-Nowlan, manager at Bob Wines Camellia Gardens in Ocala. The nursery sells several varieties of potted evergreen trees, ranging from 3 to 10 feet tall and selling for $30 to $300.

“People buy the Christmas trees and then plant them in their yard after that,” Wines-Nowlan said. “We have people who come back year after year.”

The nursery’s evergreen varieties include the Carolina sapphire, a fragrant tree with a blue-silver tint that holds ornaments well; red cedar, on which ornaments may hang heavy and low; and arborvitae, which has a fuller look and distinctive fan-like leaves. Of course, Christmas trees are not limited to evergreens.

“We do get some people in that get palm trees for Christmas trees,” Wines-Nowlan said.

Decorating the tree has changed radically from those days in Germany centuries ago. The first Christmas trees were adorned with paper roses, apples, wafers, sugar candies and candles, according to the Florida Christmas Tree Association. Decorations evolved into glass balls, small figurines and garland, and the dawn of electricity brought colorful bulbs to light up the tree.

The roots of Christmas trees 1510

1600s

1700s

1800s

1851

Late 1800s

1901

The first written record of a decorated Christmas tree came from Riga, Latvia, where merchants adorned a tree with artificial roses, danced around it in the marketplace and then set fire to it. The rose is considered to be a symbol for the Virgin Mary.

In Germany, residents commonly decorated Christmas trees with apples. This practice was a holdover from the 14th and 15th centuries when apples hung on evergreen boughs were the only prop used in church plays about the Bible.

In Austria and Germany, evergreen tips were brought into the home and hung from the ceiling. The first accounts of using lighted candles as decorations on Christmas trees came from France.

German settlers introduced the Christmas tree in the United States. The preferred size of the tree rapidly grew from tabletop size to floor-to-ceiling.

Christmas trees taken at random from forests began to be sold commercially in the United States.

The first glass ornaments were introduced into the United States, again from Germany. The first ones were mostly balls, but later, chains of balls, toys and figures became more common.

The first Christmas tree farm was started

by W.V. McGalliard, who planted 25,000 Norway spruce on his New Jersey land.

Source: National Christmas Tree Association

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| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | DEC 2020

The modern concept of having a tree up the entire holiday season is a relatively new one; originally, the tree would be brought inside and decorated on Christmas Eve.

Planted in tradition Close to 350 million Christmas trees are growing on U.S. farms. Christmas trees take seven to 10 years to grow from seedlings to harvestable trees.

An estimated 26.2 million real Christmas trees were purchased in 2019 at a median price of about $77.

The preferred species of Christmas trees in Florida include red cedar, Virginia pine, sand pine, spruce pine, Arizona cypress and Leyland cypress.

Sources: National Christmas Tree Association, Florida Christmas Tree Association

Leave it to the age of technology to even transform those traditions. Some of today’s ornaments talk, play music and tell stories, says Phyllis Minet, manager of Deb’s Hallmark Shop in the Paddock Mall.

The Hallmark Storytellers line includes sets of interactive ornaments and “tree-toppers” that put on a light and sound show.

The decorative tree-toppers audibly tell the stories of “Harry Potter,” “Star Trek” and “Nightmare Before Christmas.” For example, with the “Star Trek” series, the tree-topper is the USS Enterprise spaceship. The modern baubles are popular with both adults and children, Minet said.

But don’t fret, purists. The store also sells many styles of more traditional ornaments.

“We have very fancy ones, called an onion, that probably is what you may have seen on a grandparent’s tree at one time,” Minet says. “It’s a very large, glass ball and in the shape of an onion.”

Trudy Yancey, owner of Your Heart’s Desire, has seen a lot of Christmas ornaments since starting the gift and décor business in 1984. A recent trend is trees decorated with ornaments to match a theme, such as an all-gold tree or an all-red tree. Some customers put up multiple trees, perhaps with a pink-themed tree in a daughter’s room and a tree on the porch with outdoor-type ornaments, she said. Ornaments displaying personalized messages, such as “Baby’s First Christmas” or “Our First Christmas Together,” are also trendy.

“But I will say, over all these years, just the traditional ornaments are the most popular,” Yancey said. “I think the ornaments that have a meaning to the person they’re given to are just always popular.”

A “Star Trek” tree-topper is light years away from customary stars or angels, historically used to represent the Star of Bethlehem and the messenger angels that announced Jesus’ birth. Yancey uses a star on the family tree, while Minet maintains a longstanding tradition by using a small, handmade wreath.

“I have one that my oldest son made for me when he was about 4 years old, and he is now in his 40s, so that’s always at the top of our tree,” Minet said.

That’s a testament to how some traditions, like the custom of Christmas trees, always will remain evergreen.

DEC 2020 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM |

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Kubrick James with his human, Leslie J. Wengler.

Kubrick helped Leslie recover from a surgery because she had to be productive to take care of him as a puppy.

He also helps when she has panic attacks and keeps Leslie happy because he is such a funny dog.

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| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM DEC 2020 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | DEC 2020

Furry and four-legged, their unconditional love makes them members of the family. They are more than just pets, they are . . .

of influence PHOTOGRAPHY BY RALPH DEMILIO

Rags with his foster parent, Laura McCormick. Rags is available for adoption from the Humane Society of Marion County

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | DEC 2020 |

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Zeus with his humans, the Champagnes.

Zeus lives with his family at their animal rescue, Champagne’s Critter Sanctuary— and he is often the helping hand in making new fosters feel welcome.

This adorable kitty is available for adoption from the Humane Society of Marion County

This adorable kitty is available for adoption from the Humane Society of Marion County

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| DEC 2020 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

This adorable doggie is available for adoption from the Humane Society of Marion County

This adorable kitty is available for adoption from the Humane Society of Marion County

Bear with his human, Jennifer Ewing.

Bear keeps Jennifer smiling with his talent for being overwhelmingly cute.

Chili, walking his humans Tracy and Leighton Okus

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | DEC 2020 |

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HOLIDAYS C a t e r i n g • P a rt i e s • U n i q u e G i f t s • g i f t c a r d s It's the most wonderful time of the year! A perfect time to celebrate with your family and friends. We love this time of the year and have decorated our restaurant and boutique so you can enjoy the beauty of the season while you shop and dine.

We offer many services to help make your holidays easier. Catering is one of our specialties. We can serve at your event or you can preorder and pick up. We also have a private dining area for your holiday parties and our brand new event venue "Brick 9 Social", is now open. Call today and one of our event coordinators will be happy to explain all we have to offer and nd what ts your needs best. Don't forget we also have a wonderful boutique full of unique gifts for everyone.

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Gift Baskets DELICIOUSLY THEMED

STORY, BASKETS AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROBIN FANNON

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| DEC 2020 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

So many of us were hoping and praying that COVID-19 would be in the rearview mirror this Christmas, but alas, it would appear that the joys of 2020 are not through with us yet. I don’t know about y’all, but I’m completely Amazon-ed out and Target curbside pickup has me yawning.

Supporting our local small businesses has become of the utmost importance right now. Our beautiful and vibrant downtown needs some community love and support.

Since we are still encouraged to social distance from even our own beloved family members, why not be thoughtful and creative in your gift giving this year? Themed gift baskets are easy and fun presents to put together for all the foodies in your life. Take some cues from RSVP Robin and Shannon Roth Collection who teamed up to provide some inspiration. Whether your loved one is a coffee lover, pasta fanatic, wine and cheese aficionado, or just cannot face Sunday without enjoying a mimosa . . . then look no further. You can incorporate any hobby into this idea such as gardening, sports or even pets if your loved one is a dog lover! Fido will most certainly enjoy your efforts.

The idea is to have fun, spread some cheer and let the people you love most know that they are worth the time and effort.

This is almost as good as a bear hug, no?

A very Merry Christmas to all of you and hoping 2021 brings us some much-needed peace and good health.

Instagram @RSVP_ROBIN

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | DEC 2020 |

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GRATED & Cured

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to create your own gift baskets? There are some new kids on the Ocala block and they are taking the foodie world by storm! Meet the co-founds of Grated & Cured, Beth Kelley and Tracy Stepp, lifelong friends who brainstormed together to combine their experience in customer service, marketing and event management. The outcome is a foodie’s dream come true. These delectable curated charcuterie goodies are beautifully packed in a perfectly curated box. Check out their website and let them do all the work for you this holiday season! www.gratedandcured.com and you can find them on Facebook and Instagram.

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | DEC 2020 |

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

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

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

Now Delivering!

OFFERING TAKEOUT & CURBSIDE ORDERS!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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| DEC 2020 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

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

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

We’ll bring it out to you!

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

dining out

EAT

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

Ask about our daily, not on the menu items!

We offer gift cards, catering and entertaining.

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

Ivy On The Square It’s the most wonderful time of the year! A perfect time to celebrate with your family and friends. We love this time of the year and have decorated our restaurant and boutique so you can enjoy the beauty of the season while you shop and dine. We offer many services to help make your holidays easier. Catering is one of our specialties. We can serve at your event or you can preorder and pick up. We also have a private dining area for your holiday parties and our brand new event venue “Brick 9 Social” is now open. Call today and one of our event coordinators will be happy to explain all we have to offer and find what fits your needs best. Don’t forget also we have a wonderful boutique full of unique gifts for everyone.

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

Gift cards available.

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

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

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

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

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

We’ll bring it out to you!

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

2484 Odell Circle | The Villages, FL 32162 | (352) 430-3200 Suleimanrestaurants@gmail.com | Follow us on Facebook www.havanacc.com Open Every Day 11am–8:30pm OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | DEC 2020 |

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EAT

dining out

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

Golden Spoon Award Winner 9 consecutive years!

2010 to 2018

Special menu Wednesday through Saturday.

FRIDAY SEAFOOD NIGHT AND SATURDAY STEAK NIGHT

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

Fine Dining

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

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

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

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

Finish your meal with a Chef’s choice dessert.

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

Call for reservations, hours and weekly specials.

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

Cafe Crisp Faith. Fitness. Food.

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

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

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Ask about our weekly meal prep specials!

dining out

EAT

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

Open Christmas Eve from 4-8 PM and New Year’s Eve from 4-8:30. Closed Christmas and New Years Day. Our keto, paleo, gluten friendly buffet menu will allow you to stick to your dietary needs.

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

3sCateringCompany.com

Purchase a gift card and get MORE on a bonus card! Up to $99 get 10% back , $100 to $499 get 20% back, $500 & up get 25% back.

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

Craft Cuisine We will see you soon!

Craft Cuisine World-Inspired Culinary Creations We are closed.

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

Follow us on social media for updates.

Golden Spoon Award Winner!

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

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

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

Closed Christmas and New Years Day. Curbside pick up and family meals available to go.

Purchase a gift card and get MORE on a bonus card! Up to $99 get 10% back, $100 to $499 get 20% back, $500 & up get 25% back.

Holidays with a Latin Flair! We can cater cater your Christmas party at you place or in one of our private rooms. Make your orders or reservations now !

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

3sCateringCompany.com

2030 South Pine Avenue, Ocala, FL 34471 | (352) 622-4777 www.latinosymas.com Mon-Thurs 11am - 8:30pm | Fri-Sat 11am-9pm | Sun closed OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | DEC 2020 |

55

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

2020 Historic Ocala Preservation Society Board Members

Sponsorship opportunities available, please contact 352-237-5332

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

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

play

“Red Kimono” by Milly Sheffer 14” x 14” | oil on canvas | millysheffer.com

Socially Speaking p58 | Anthology—Poetry in Motion p60

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | DEC 2020 |

57

EVENTS

socially speaking

TEDx Ocala On Saturday, November 7th, TEDx Ocala held a hybrid event at the College of Central Florida. It included a very limited in-person audience while the rest of the viewers tuned into the program as it streamed online. This year’s theme was “voice” and the speakers made excellent use of it, inspiring onlookers with ideas worth spreading. For more about each speaker, visit www.tedxocala.com.

The 2020 TEDx Ocala speakers

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| DEC 2020 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

PROFESSIONALISM RESPONSIVENESS QUALITY

BUSINESS SERVICES

Small Business Accounting QuickBook Services Part-Time CFO Service Audits – Reviews – Compilations Cash Flow Management Bank Financing Business Valuation Strategic Business Planning Succession Planning New Business Formation Non-Profit Organizations Internal Controls Certified Fraud Examiner Homeowner & Condo Associations

INDIVIDUAL SERVICES Personal Financial Planning Estate Planning Elder Care

TAX SERVICES Tax Preparation Tax Planning Tax Problems

HOMEOWNER & CONDO ASSOCIATIONS Services Audits/Reviews/Compilations

THE STAFF AT SUNCOAST CPA GROUP IS DEDICATED TO EXCEEDING YOUR EXPECTATIONS

We are devoted to providing each of our clients, whether an individual or a business, with the highest quality of services and attention they deserve.

5471 Spring Hill Dr • Spring Hill, FL 34606 | 801 S Broad St • Brooksville, FL 34601 | Ocala Office Now Open

OUR PROMISE: TOTAL CUSTOMER SATISFACTION. OUR TEAM OF PROFESSIONALS CAN HELP WITH YOUR CURRENT AND FUTURE NEEDS.

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SUNCOASTCPAGROUP.COM

PLAY

anthology â&#x20AC;&#x201D; poetry in motion

Hope can be an internal light of inspiration Make it part of the foundation of your life adventure It really comes in handy Hope leads to positive attitudes and solutions Hope will motivate your creativity Hope is a pathway to heal pain It also helps to keep you sane Don't be a Dope ... Latch onto Hope Put Hope in your heart and enjoy the ride to whatever destination

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| DEC 2020 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

Hope

BY JERRY GLASSMAN

Gemini

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Hoedown

OCALA’S Cigars, #1 Premium STOP FOR ALL Pipe Tobacco & THINGS Accessories CHOCOLATE! Ready to make the switch?

You can have your delight for a one stop shop for your gourmet, exotic, and everyday chocolate needs. If we don’t have your desires on the shelf, simply make an order in advance and we can customize it specifically for you. We are a neighborhood store in a neighborly community, see you at Ocala’s Chocolate & Confections!

Try Us!

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We also offer many chocolate fruits, other chocolate products, and ice creams at our shop! Blvd We have the largest selection of E-Juices in Ocala!

3415 E Silver Springs

Thursday, Oct 11, 2018

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

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 (352) 291-0254 1220 E. Silver Springs Blvd. • 352-512-0346 www.facebook.com/ocalasweetleaf Mon-Sat 9am-10pm, Sun 11am-7pm

Special Guest Performance by: This productKeri is NOT a safe Sheffield Ms.alternative Rodeo Americato cigarettes.

Must be 18 years or older to enter. Must show valid ID.

Boot Scootin’ music Line Dancing Silent Auction

Medical

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

BBQ & Fixins by 4Rivers BBQ

Minimally Invasive Surgeons of Ocala (MISO) www.MISOcala.org

FREE HEALTH WORKSHOP 7668 SW 60th Avenue, Suite 500 A REVOLUTIONARY SOLUTION TO REFLUX DISEASE Headaches Ocala, FL 34476 (on Airport Road) September 26th @ 6:30 PM at Mimi’s Cafe

It’s time to win the battle against reflux.

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

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

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

Patient’s with reflux disease often suffer poor quality of OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | DEC 2020 | sleep, reduced work productivity dietary, compromises to avoid symptoms and lifelong dependence on medications.

Although lifestyle modifications and acid blocking medications are able to control the symptoms at times,

61

ELITE EQUESTRIAN

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Celebrating The Equestrian Lifestyle

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

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

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iding a horse is not a gentle hobby, to be picked up and laid down like a game of solitaire.

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ELITE EQUESTRIAN Magazine RANKED 7TH WORLD WIDE Equine Magazines to watch in 2020 -according to Feedspot Blog

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equine

Gracious Living in the Horse Capital of the World Photo by Ralph Demilio Everything Equine p64 | The Original EquinistaTM p68

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | DEC 2020 |

63

everything equine

Horses and Haunts The CEP’s ‘Horse-O-Ween’ proves to be a resounding success and a creative showcase

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

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Photos by Suzanne Suor, White Barn Press

EQUINE

In

the spirit of the Fall and Halloween season this year, the Ocala/Marion County Chamber and Economic Partnership held its first â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Horse-O-Weenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; at the Downtown Market, as part of the Equine Initiative presented

by Pyranha, Inc. Presenting sponsor of the event was Miller and Sons Plumbing, which loves to generously support family events for kids in the community and is a big supporter of the equine industry.

A large crowd of people came out with their children to see a variety of horses in some fantastic and creative costumes. Held outside and under cover of the market, pandemic protocols were followed including the wearing of masks, which was perfect given the theme of the holiday! The event marked a great way to allow families to enjoy Halloween while remaining outside with horses.

The Historic Stagecoach joined in and offered rides around the downtown area to help raise funds for the CEP Equine Disaster Relief Fund, which helps horse owners and the equine industry with feed, hay and expenses in times of need and financial difficulty. The COVID-19 pandemic has caused a lot of hardship for many and by partnering with local feed stores, hay providers and veterinarians, the hope is to be able to provide horse owners with vouchers in the future to get them through the tough times.

On Oct. 29, kids enjoyed meeting the horses and having their photos taken with the creatively designed costumed horses. The event was enjoyed so much that this will now be an annual event and fundraiser with the opportunity for horse owners to sell some of their used tack or promote their equine-related products or services.

Kids costume contests for all age groups were followed by the horse competition. The two horses tied for first place: a beautiful fairy horse from Horses Without Humans Rescue Organization and a very creative

witch riding a Mangalarga Marchador from Oak Bell Farm.

The 2021 event is already slated for Oct. 28 and everyone is looking forward to seeing how much more creative people will get with their horse costumes!

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | DEC 2020 |

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VOLUNTEER CONNECT is the easiest way to find volunteer opportunities in your community. Whatever your skills, whatever your passion, we connect you with organizations that critically need your help. You don’t need experience or any special skills; just a heart and the will to donate your most precious commodity: time.

“There could be no definition of a successful life that does not include service to others.” ~ George H.W. Bush

INTRODUCING

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| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | AUG 2020

volunteerflorida.org

LDCT-Grandparents-OcalaMAG_FullPage.pdf

1

9/17/20

1:12 PM

YOUR HEALTH IS ABOUT MORE THAN JUST YOU LOW-DOSE COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY (LDCT) “A quick LDCT scan can help our Board Certified radiology team identify abnormalities in the lung with exceptional speed, promoting faster treatment and better outcomes.”

— Mark Allen, MD; Ralf R. Barckhausen, MD; Caleb R. Rivera, MD; Malcolm E. Williamson, II MD; Edson G. Cortes, MD; John D. Boon IV, MD

LDCT lung cancer screening can catch cancer early before it produces symptoms, when it is highly treatable. A quick, painless snapshot can secure more time for everything you hold dear. If you are or were a heavy smoker, ask your doctor if LDCT might be right for you.

ARE YOU A CANDIDATE FOR LDCT?

For guidelines you can share with your doctor, visit www.raocala.com/services/low-dose-ct-screening It’s worth it.

www.RAOcala.com • (352) 671-4300 ACR Accredited Computed Tomography available at Medical Imaging Center and TimberRidge Imaging Center

We are proudly contracted with a variety of insurances and file all claims with the exception of non-contracted HMOs. Visit our website for a detailed list of contracted insurances. Contracted insurances are subject to change.

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| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | AUG 2020

A FULL CIRCLE OF CARE CENTERED ON YOU.

EQUINE

the original equinista

TM

A Breed Apart Ninth-Generation Ma’Ceo Horseman, Olissio Zoppe

BY L.A. SOKOLOWSKI, THE ORIGINAL EQUINISTA™

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| DEC 2020 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

unique (apart from the Zoppe family’s signature bareback riding act) are its costars, which include some of the world’s most rare and threatened horse breeds. By introducing them into the performances, he hopes to spur awareness of the fragile beauty and versatility of each precious animal.

For example, Zoppe brings Ben Hur de Bernaville, one of approximately 500 Boulonnais draft horses and 52 breeding stallions remaining.

The rare and romantic French breed, known as “The White Marble Horse,” traces its origin to the time of the Crusades. Roman emperor Julius Caesar brought the warhorse to the region to reinforce his invasion of Britain, and the Spanish Barb, Andalusian and Arabian bloodlines introduced in the

Ottavia, now 2 years old, will make her debut with the show in Ocala

17th and 18th centuries have produced an elegant and powerful steed that looks straight out of a fairy tale.

“Ben is spectacular. He looks like some-

Photos courtesy of Cirque Ma'Ceo

“H

orses have always been part of our lives and our performing lives. They are our co-stars,” says Olissio Zoppe, a professional cirque and equestrian performer with Cavallo Equestrian Arts in Myakka City and whose Cirque Ma’Ceo is redefining the art of the circus.

When the ninth-generation hometown horseman brings the pomp, pageantry and performance of Cirque Ma’Ceo (described as the “Equine Cirque du Soleil”) to Ocala this winter it will also be as a proud father, when the family’s riding legacy passes to the next generation with the show debut of his and wife Alexa’s two-year-old daughter, Ottavia.

But wait, as the ringmaster says, there’s more.

What makes the Cirque Ma’Ceo

thing sculpted by the Romans. I’ve seen a lot of horses but never anything like him,” Zoppe said. “For the last 15 years we have had exotic breeds, and now we have moved into showcasing very rare breeds, like the Boulonnais, which is a very unique and intelligent breed. Their conformation and size are perfect for our ancient trade. It is our dream to show the world the relationship we share with our horses and the excitement they bring to all the lives they touch.”

That excitement that starts with an equestrian-themed show weaving acrobatics, aerial, dance and equestrian arts into a story set to music.

“We will take you back to the roots of the gypsy circus heritage, from daredevil Cossack riding to the Aerial Chandelier.”

The first trick Zoppe learned on a horse was a vault, and it remains both the easiest – and hardest – skill to teach or perform.

“The easiest thing to learn is a standard vault but the hardest is the backwards somersault, where you must land back on the horse while it is cantering.”

The best advice passed down to him from eight generations of riders? First and foremost, learn patience. Zoppe follows that advice with a simple fatherly admonition: “Be careful, son.”

Probably the most challenging feat per-

formed for audiences today is a show-stopping Cossack trick of going under the belly of a galloping horse and making it back in the saddle on the other side.

Like any type of riding, the result is only as good as the amount of heart your horse also puts into it. Zoppe makes it a priority that his horses are not just equine ambassadors of conservation but partners who like their job and want to perform.

“We always make sure to find the job a horse enjoys,” Zoppe said, noting the importance of an audience seeing the connection between the performers and the horses.

Zoppe’s Cossack riding partner, Presente, is among a cast of horses that includes breeds such as Friesian, Belgian Brabant, Nokota Mustang, Miniature, Percheron, Suffolk Punch and American Quarter Horse.

“Presente is a very noble and loyal horse who loves his job. He is older but in great working condition as a trick riding horse, and we want to keep him as strong as possible so he can continue to impress the crowds and do what he loves.”

To assure the show must go on, the 22 year-old ‘elder statesman’ of the circus ring gets daily doses of Wellpride, an omega-3 fish oil supplement for horses. “Since we’ve been using it his coat is glossier, and his mood has elevated.”

Also elevating moods at Cirque Ma’Ceo has been anticipation for performing again and keeping the equestrian circus tradition alive.

“A circus will show you a whole new meaning to eating, sleeping, drinking your work and passion,” Zoppe said. “We’re the last ones. This really is a cornerstone of what the circus is and was. We need people appreciating this art, so they don’t forget, because it’s on the verge of disappearing.

“The reason this show is special is the portrayal of friendship and connection between horse and rider. Every performance is unique for the simple fact that horses and riders express their own passions in each and every show.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION What: Cirque Ma’Ceo Where: Southeastern Livestock Pavillion When: December 19, 4 p.m.

Tickets: $20 purchased at door, seating is first come-first served Web site: cirquemaceo.com

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | DEC 2020 |

69

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FEATURES

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Breaking New Ground LIKE US08ON FACEBOOK 12 Zombieland AND STAY UP TO DATE!

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Downtown Ocala Photo by Ralph Demilio

Charity: Marion County Humane Society p72 | Health Journal p76 | State of the City p78 State of the County p80 | Kiwanis Korner p82 | Rotary Circle p84 | Looking Back p88

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | DEC 2020 |

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ETC

charity

For the love of animals Marion County Humane Society excels at rehabbing animals and finding good homes

BY CARLTON REESE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY RALPH DEMILIO

W

hen the call came regarding a house full of troubled dogs in Summerfield, the team at Marion County Humane Society wasted no time springing into action.

Normally not part of MCHS protocol to make such house calls, this situation presented a special case and warranted immediate attention.

What the crew saw upon arrival validated the concern: nine pit-husky mixes, all suffering from sarcoptic mange, a highly contagious skin disease caused by mites.

“This was an emergency,” said Kirstin Tanner, Shelter Operations Manager at MCHS. “It was a home not in the nicest condition. The owner was an old lady who was losing her eyesight and she was not able to clean up after the animals or give them care. It just got overwhelming.”

The crew refers to the pack as the “Resilient Nine” as all nine dogs went into rehabilitation at MCHS and five have since recovered fully and been adopted and are in the care of loving families. Three are still in

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rehabilitation and nearing adoptability.

“We did have one that passed away and that was the saddest part,” Tanner said. “She was about 10 (years old) and had been living in that situation the entire time and it had taken so much a toll on her body.”

Rehabilitation of the animal was going well according to Tanner and she was on a trajectory for a foster home before contracting a fever. “She had lumps we couldn’t figure out in time and she passed away with a staff member.”

Sometimes sad endings are unavoidable, but eight happy endings resulted that would not have been the case without MCHS’ intervention. At MCHS, every day brings the opportunity for happy endings for dogs and cats in peril, strays and even those abandoned by owners. The facility, currently located at 701 NW 14th Road in Ocala, has been operating for 56 years with the same mission of caring and protecting for Marion County animals while preventing cruelty, suffering and overpopulation of animals.

“We’re basically an adoption facili-

ty,” said Eddie Leedy, Executive Director of MCHS. “We’re unique in the county in that we don’t receive any tax money – all our money is received through donations.”

The rescuing and rehabilitation of the “Resilient Nine” is a prime example of the organization accomplishing its mission in total: Dogs were relieved of their suffering, nurtured to health and guided to loving homes.

The process of evolving from rescue to adoptability, however, is not so simple and not relegated simply to an animal’s health.

In the case of the Resilient Nine, as is with many animals that enter the facility, the dogs needed to not only be nursed back to health but also trained to become pet-worthy.

“We’re working on their personalities because they were very pack-oriented in the house and didn’t have much socialization,” Tanner said.

In achieving its mission, MCHS must employ a diverse staff that includes many different skill sets from trainer to veterinarian. A tour of the facility reveals part pet

The dogs all get regular outside and play time and plenty of loving interaction with volunteers

shop, part vet clinic, part kennel and part dog park. Along with paid staff, numerous volunteers help care for the animals in addition to many foster homes that enable the facility to maintain a higher volume of animals.

“They are our lifeline,” Tanner says of the foster homes. “A lot of times we can’t say ‘yes’ to an intake that might need more medical attention and some privacy to heal” which brings the fosters into play, according to Tanner.

The facility itself has an ideal capacity of 95 dogs and 95 cats, but with foster homes, the total number in the “bubble” for MCHS can reach up to 350 animals. The “bubble” contains not just private homes, but also business such as PetSmart, Petco, Pet Supermarket and Petsense.

The overwhelming majority of animals that wind up at the MCHS facility are either strays brought in by those who discovered them or owners who surrender their own pets if they feel they can no longer properly care for them. MCHS also pulls animals from Marion County Animal Services.

“Occasionally we have people that have an animal that needs critical medical care but can’t afford it and they’ll surrender it to us,” Leedy said. “Many times, we’ll get those animals back healthy and get them back to their owners.”

Lest one think MCHS hands over animals to just anyone who claims a strong desire to take one home, the facility has a rather rigorous vetting process for prospective owners. Each animal’s personality traits, such as whether it is good around children and other

animals, are noted and used to help match with proper owners. Also, prospective owners are scrutinized for many reasons to make certain they will provide a good home.

“We’ve been called strict many times,” Tanner said. “We do home visits, check vet records; we’ll call landlords if we feel funny and even check employment.”

Most importantly, there must be some interaction between pet and owner before releasing them together.

“A lot of people shop online and look at the dog and go off looks, but we encourage them to come to the shelter, see who picks them, then at that point we have a small survey to make sure they are a good fit for that animal that they are wanting to look at.

“We want to make sure that we’re all on the same page when that animal is leaving the building, that they’re going to receive better care than they received here.”

As a “no-kill” facility, MCHS must be very careful with its inventory of animals especially considering it receives no government funding. Currently, numbers are slightly higher than the ideal capacity, but heading into a winter where a spike in COVID-19 is expected means precise management is at a premium.

The facility made it through the summer pandemic fear in far greater shape than anticipated, but the future is still unknown.

“My biggest fear is a shutdown (of the economy),” Leedy said, “because financially people can’t give to their favorite organiza-

“A lot of people shop online and look at the dog and go off looks, but we encourage them to come to the shelter, see who picks them."

tion if they’re just trying to feed themselves.”

MCHS lives off donations of money, but also donations of items such as cleaning supplies, kitty litter, food and much more.

Through hard work, love of animals and a community that cares about its mission, MCHS continues to make happy endings a reality every day.

To make a donation or check out potential pets, one can visit the MCHS web site, thehsmc.org.

OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | DEC 2020 |

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health journal

Getting Candid About Lung Cancer Diagnosis in the Age of COVID-19

T

he COVID-19 pandemic has caused a significant disruption in cancer care and treatment.1 As the leading cause of cancer death in the US, the potential impact on lung cancer is especially alarming.2,3 Recent studies predict a significant increase in the number of cancer deaths over the next five years due to missed screenings, delays in diagnosis and reductions in oncology care caused by COVID-19.3,4 While part of this disruption is due to

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BRANDPOINT

the reduction and suspension of screening programs and diagnostic services caused by the reallocation of medical staff and resources to fight the pandemic, there are also other important factors at play.1 Nationwide stay-at-home orders, job and/or insurance loss and general fear of exposure to the virus during a doctor visit have resulted in people postponing care for non-COVID-19 health concerns, or foregoing it altogether.1,6 As a result of these factors, although individuals across the US are still getting lung cancer,

more people are going undiagnosed until the cancer has reached an advanced stage.5 “What we are seeing in our practice is that people are not coming in for anything unless they absolutely have to,” said Joyce Knestrick, PhD, FNP-BC, FAANP. “They don’t want to go to any screenings. They don’t want to go to any hospital settings to be exposed to COVID.” Many medical conditions, including lung cancer, will not “wait” for the pandemic to end. Putting off diagnosis and treatment

For more information on cancer and COVID-19, visit covid19cancerresources.com. *Compared to the average lung cancer diagnosis rates from Jan ‘19 to Feb ‘20.

References 1. Richards M, Anderson M, Carter P, Ebert BL, Mossialos E. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on cancer care. Nat Cancer. 2020;1:565567.

2. American Cancer Society. Key Statistics for Lung Cancer. Available at https://www.cancer.org/ cancer/lungcancer/about/key-statistics.html. Accessed August 2020.

3. Amit M, Tam S, Bader T, Sorkin A, Benov A. Pausing cancer screening during the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2pandemic: Should we revisit the recommendations? Eur J Cancer.

2020;134:86-89.

may have significant negative effects on patient outcomes.5 “In my experience, if they don’t know they have a diagnosis they are not going to seek it out unless they are really sick anyway. That’s why I am really worried about the burden on the system when people come in at different levels,” Joyce continued.

LUNG CANCER: THERE’S NO PAUSE BUTTON Cancer does not discriminate, and its consequences are not pausing even if the world is.

Despite relatively stable lung cancer diagnoses rates for 13 months prior to the pandemic,7* states with a particularly high prevalence of lung cancer where the decline is most notable and severely affected by COVID-19- New York, California, Texas, Tennessee, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Michigan and Ohio- have since seen a 30-60% reduction in such diagnoses as of May 2020.

This sharp decline does not mean fewer people are developing lung cancer. Instead, quite the opposite: more individuals are going undiagnosed and delay treatment until their cancers advance.8 While some individuals with early lung cancer can have symptoms, many do not until the disease spreads. An added challenge is some symptoms such as coughing, shortness

of breath and fatigue may mimic those of COVID-19.10,11 If lung cancer symptoms are noticed sooner rather than later, or people at known risk seek medical care, it might be diagnosed and treated more effectively at an earlier stage.

“I think this is a challenging time for all of us, but we are all in this together,” said Nanette Alexander, DNP, APRN, FAANP. “We want to minimize what they need for care, and early intervention does that.”

REASSURING PATIENTS: THE TIME CAN STILL BE NOW It is critical for people at risk for lung cancer, or with potential symptoms, to stay connected with their health care providers and learn how to best seek care given the situation.

Even in the face of a global pandemic, concerns should not be put on hold.

Hospitals and clinics are doing all they can to ensure the health and safety of patients during the pandemic. Ultimately, the risk of COVID-19 must be balanced against the risk to the patient of lung cancer progression, and in most cases, lung cancer still represents a greater risk of mortality for patients.3,12 “When your providers say it is safe to go back, go back,” Nanette concluded.

4. Maringe C, Spicer J, Morris M, et al. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on cancer deaths due to delays in diagnosis in England, UK: a national, population-based, modelling study. Lancet Oncol.

2020;21:1023-1034.

5. Kaufman HW, Chen Z, Niles J, Fesko Y. Changes in the Number of US Patients With Newly Identified Cancer Before and During the Coronavirus Disease 2019 [COVID-19] Pandemic. JAMA Netw Open.

2020;3(8):e2017267.

6. Woolhandler S, Himmelstein DU. Intersecting U.S. Epidemics, COVID-19 and Lack of Health Insurance. Ann Intern Med. 2020;173:63-64. doi:10.7326/M20-1491 7. This is based on information licensed from IQVIA Oncology Real World Insights for the period of January 2019 to May 2020 reflecting estimates of real-world activity. All rights reserved. Study details and information maintained by AZ. 8. Sharpless, NE. COVID-19 and cancer. Science.

2020;368(6497):1290. doi:10.1126/science. abd3377.

9. American Cancer Society. Signs and Symptoms of Lung Cancer. Available at https://www.cancer.org/ cancer/lung-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging/ signs-symptoms.html. Accessed August 2020.

10. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Older Adults. Available at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/need-extra-precautions/older-adults.html. Accessed August 2020.

11. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Symptoms of Coronavirus. Available at https://www.cdc. gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms-testing/ symptoms.html. Accessed August 2020.

12. Singh AP, Berman AT, Marmarelis ME, et al. Management of Lung Cancer During the COVID-19 Pandemic. JCO Oncol Pract. https://ascopubs. org/doi/full/10.1200/OP.20.00286

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ETC

state of the city

Spreading the Wealth The Diverse Small Business Enterprise Program helps minority-owned businesses thrive BY: ASHLEY DOBBS, MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER, CITY OF OCALA

T

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| DEC 2020 | OCALAMAGAZINE.COM

The primary purpose of this program is to provide diverse businesses, owned and operated by minority, women and veteran entrepreneurs, with the opportunity to bid on contracts within their city. partnered with the Chamber and Economic Partnership (CEP) to hold a 10-week program facilitated by FasttracÂŽ via the Kauffmann Foundation. This immersive program for future community business leaders provides the skills and networking opportunities to help small businesses thrive.

During the program, business owners are taught how to create business plans, learn about entrepreneurship opportunities, hear vendors speak about their experiences, network with fellow business owners and connect with mentors who help create a path to success. This inaugural fast track learning program welcomed 18 business owners beginning in October. A graduation ceremony is planned for participants in late December and event organizers are already looking toward scheduling future series to meet demand.

Since its inception, the DSBE has

been a tremendous success for the community. Currently, 203 members are a part of the program and the City intends to expand the program and provide additional contract awards to the group. The potential to grow small businesses, especially those owned by diverse and minority groups, is making an impact through direct economic and educational opportunity for our community. Supporting small businesses within our communities and encouraging an active interest in shopping local, eating local, and hiring local businesses ultimately serves all the residents of the community. So far a total of 45 projects and contracts have been awarded through the DSBE program, in excess of $1,297,887 as a direct economic benefit to our diverse business community To learn more about this program or to enroll in future programs, visit www.ocalasmallbiz.com or call 352-216-2155.

Photo courtesy of the City of Ocala

he City of Ocala is committed to helping businesses, especially those owned and operated by minority groups, including womenand veteran-owned businesses. The Diverse Small Business Enterprise program (DSBE) launched by the City of Ocala provides these businesses with an opportunity to participate in the Cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s contracting and procurement processes. By partnering with the City of Ocala, the playing field is leveled in the bid process, allowing minority and diverse business owners to remain competitive with larger businesses and organizations.

The primary purpose of this program is to provide diverse businesses, owned and operated by minority, women and veteran entrepreneurs, with the opportunity to bid on contracts within their city. The program is designed to fully comply with the Cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s procurement policy which requires service and construction contracts and purchase orders for goods, services and materials to be awarded to the lowest responsible bidder. As a government entity, the goal is for business owners to become successful members of the community without disadvantage.

The DSBE program provides opportunities and educational topics to help vendors learn how to do business with the city.

Events are led by community leaders and outreach advisors and cover a variety of topics. Current business leaders engage during educational sessions with DSBE class members, providing real life examples and solutions for navigating the business world in our community. This year, the DSBE program

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12 Paws of the Holidays Bring a Pet Home from Marion County Animal Services for the Holidays

BY ALEX AUBUCHON

W

hat better time than the holidays to introduce a new furry friend to your household?

Marion County Animal Services is brimming with cats and dogs eager to find their forever home.

This month, Animal Services is celebrating the “12 Paws of the Holidays.” All adoptions are $12, with up-to-date vaccinations, a Marion County pet license, microchip, and spay/neuter surgery included.

You can view all our adoptable pets in a database updated every hour at MarionCountyFL.org/Animal.

While it might seem like a good idea to treat your pet with a turkey bone to gnaw on after dinner, those bones can easily splinter and cause major injuries.

can cause intestinal blockages that may require surgery. Broken glass ornaments can cause significant injuries.

SECURE YOUR SWEETS

Some of our favorite holiday plants can result in an emergency if your pet gets too inquisitive. Mistletoe, holly, balsam, pine and cedar are some of the most common holiday plants that can be poisonous to pets that eat them.

It’s fairly common knowledge that chocolate and xylitol are toxic to dogs and cats, but we might underestimate the lengths our pets will go to nab a sweet treat while we’re distracted. So make sure your desserts are out of reach while celebrating.

HOLIDAY PET SAFETY The holidays can be a stressful time, and our pets’ well-being isn’t necessarily our top priority. However, there are a few pet health hazards it’s important to keep in mind.

It’s generally a good idea to keep human food away from pets. Holiday meals in particular, though, present a few specific hazards.

KEEP THE TURKEY TO YOURSELF Turkey skin is significantly fattier than your pets’ usual diet and can upset their digestive system or even cause pancreatitis.

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DANGEROUS DÉCOR Tinsel, ornaments and other holiday decorations can prove irresistible for pets, but they can also present some major health hazards.

If pets eat tinsel or strands of confetti, they

POISONOUS PLANTS

ANIMAL CENTER UPGRADES Thanks to the renewal of the Penny Sales Tax, we’re looking forward to upgrades to the Animal Center. The renovations will modernize our facility, increase capacity and help us provide the best possible environment for the pets under our care.

We’ll also be constructing a new, high-volume spay and neuter clinic. This will help foster our mission of responsible pet ownership in Marion County and will reduce the number of stray animals in our community.

For more on the planned improvements, visit MarionSalesTax.org.

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

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

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

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

DRAKE—$5,000

DUCKLING—$1,500

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

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

PADDLER—$500

QUACKER—$1,000

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

PADDLER—$500 For more information visit MarionDuckDerby.org

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

For more infor mation visit MarionDuckDerby.org

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Ocala’s First First Responders The first fire department grew out of Ocala’s famous Thanksgiving Day fire

BY CARLTON REESE WITH THE HISTORIC OCALA PRESERVATION SOCIETY

T

oday’s nine Ocala fire stations are the legacy of a historic tragedy and the successful ordinance it spawned to establish a department that had astonishingly not existed before.

Ocala’s moniker of “Brick City” was famously garnered after the 1883 Thanksgiving Day fire that destroyed the Ocala House Hotel, the Ocala Banner newspaper offices and 10 other buildings in the downtown area. At that point, construction switched from wood to brick, stone and iron and forever changed the esthetic of the downtown business district.

Though the fire took place in 1883, construction of Ocala’s first fire station was not completed until 1894. In the 11-year interim, fire bonds were sold in order to purchase firefighting equipment and later an ordinance was passed in 1885 to establish the department itself, which incorporated existing volunteer firefighters and William Fox as its first chief.

In 1889, a fire bell was installed at the corner of Osceola Avenue and Fort King

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Street and that bell is prominently displayed today at the site of the original fire station at the intersection of Broadway and Osceola next the downtown parking garage.

Remarkably, when volunteer firefighters rushed to put out fires in the early days of the department, hose carts were transported via human power. That would change in 1894 when the first team of fire horses was purchased thanks in large part to fundraising efforts of local writer Beatrice Marean.

Marean, who wrote the locally-infamous novel “The Tragedies of Oak Hurst: A Florida Romance” in 1891, had written “The Fireman’s Heart” in 1894 and for her efforts in raising funds for the department received the Fireman’s Heart Medal that year. Of course, Beatrice Marean was the pen name for Rene Snowden, whose husband was a prominent pharmacist in Ocala.

As the world transformed from one of horse-and-buggy to one of horseless carriages then automobiles, the Ocala Fire Department kept up with the times. The year 1915 ushered in the department’s first motorized

vehicle for the fire chief then in 1916 all vehicles would be motorized, marking the official end of the horse-drawn era in Ocala.

The horse stalls at the station would be converted to a reading room and office while the horses would be transferred to the sanitation department for use in pulling garbage trucks.

In 1966, a second station was built at the intersection of East 25th Avenue and Silver Springs Boulevard before a new Fire Station No. 1 would be built on NE 3rd Street in 1967, a harbinger to the razing of the original historic station in 1968.

Since the razing of Ocala’s first fire station in 1968, there has been a remarkable evolution in the department, from the addition of numerous other stations, joining of the International Association of Firefighters and drastic upgrades in vehicles, equipment and facilities.

Today, the department is known officially as Ocala Fire Rescue, but the original bronze bell remains at its early home as a reminder to all visiting downtown of the grand history of the area.

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