Jan/Feb 2022 Ocala's Good Life Magazine

Retirement Redefined

Elevation

89

Dine like a jetsetter at the Ocala International Airport’s NEW restaurant

PLUS—

Clydesdales

See these majestic horses in a beautiful setting.

Good Neighbors Carl Page is lovin’ the Trop Rock life in song.

Out & About

Ocala Royal Dames + Horse Fever = a fun night.

Challenging Puzzles | Healthy Recipes | Cuisine Queen

OCALA’S

GOOD LIFE

TM

INSIDE:

JAN/FEB 2022

Behind every scan is a story.

When the team at Radiology Associates of Ocala takes and reads a scan, we’re looking at more than just muscle and bone. Before us is an enlightening health history and a blueprint for the future. A snapshot revealing what—and who—you need to get you on a path to living a happier, healthier life. From regular exams to triumphant battles, we’ve been a part of so many stories throughout our 40 years of service. This year, we’re sharing how each scan tells the story of our patients, our rad techs, our doctors and our commitment to the quality, personalized care you deserve.

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Ocala’s

GOOD LIFE

30

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021

32 Photo: John Jernigan

departments

24

8

The Editor’s Desk

10

Good Start

16

My Florida

18

Out & About

22

Just My Type

24

Daycation

28

Out & About

30

Good Health

features

36

Cuisine Queen

20

Trop Rockin’

37

Dining Guide

Highlights of some of the area’s best restaurants.

BY JOANN GUIDRY

40

Recipes

Healthy choices. By Family Features

on the cover

42

Plan Ahead

48

Puzzle Page

2022 on a mission. By Dean Blinkhorn Quick looks at our community. By JoAnn Guidry & Cynthia Brown Celebrate every day. By Melody Murphy A Horse Fever celebration with the Ocala Royal Dames. By Steve Floethe A life of great films. By Mary Ellen Grandview Clydesdales is big fun. By Rick Allen Ocala Arts Festival. By Steve Floethe A new year of possibilities. By Cammy Dennis All the latest dining news. By Paula DiPaula

Karen Cobbs, Grandview Clydesdales

32

Flights Into Flavor

BY MELODY MURPHY • PHOTO BY JOHN JERNIGAN

Lots of reasons to get out of your easy chair.

What are you waiting for?

Spend a few minutes with the crossword or Sudoku.

Salt Springs resident Carl Page discovers that life can take unexpected turns into a new chapter, leading to a neverimagined music career.

Elevation 89, the new restaurant at the Ocala Airport, only just took off for business in October 2021 and it’s already climbed above the clouds for smooth flying. No turbulence or crosswinds here, just a well-crafted menu of American cuisine, food cooked perfectly, and a friendly and attentive staff.

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

5

Creating Healthy Smiles

6

Ocala’s

GOOD LIFE

“Rio”

TM

MAGAZINE

ocalasgoodlife.com JAN/FEB 2022 Publisher/Art Director Trevor Byrne

trevor@ocalasgoodlife.com

Publisher/Editor Dean Blinkhorn

dean@ocalasgoodlife.com

Project Manager Cynthia Brown

cynthia@ocalasgoodlife.com

Writers

Richard Anguino, Cammy Dennis, Mary Ellen, JoAnn Guidry, Melody Murphy, Paula, Danielle Veenstra

Photographers Steve Floethe John Jernigan

Proofreaders Karen Bradley Sally Tinkham

Advertising Sales Carol DeWitt

(302) 377-9142 carol@ocalasgoodlife.com

Rick Junglas

(352) 445-1252 rick@ocalasgoodlife.com

Kaye Schultz

(352) 427-4005 kaye@ocalasgoodlife.com

Sally Tinkham

Barbara DeLucia, DMD

A Master of the Academy of General Dentistry Private practice for over 25 years!

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Distribution Heidi Justice

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Located right outside of Golf Cart Accessible! On Top of the World OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

Published bi-monthly by Good Life Publishing Inc. ocalasgoodlife.com • (877) 622-5210 ©2022 Good Life Publishing Inc. All rights reserved. No part may be reprinted in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher.

Unsolicited material will not be returned. Publisher is not responsible for advertisers’ claims or content of advertisements.

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the editor’s desk

by dean blinkhorn [dean@ocalasgoodlife.com]

Taking Charge Of 2022

W

ell, 2022 is here and I hope you had a good holiday break with friends, family, and those closest to you. A New Year always promises a fresh start and a blank slate, which can be either inspiring or a little overwhelming, depending upon your point of view.

So, for me, I plan on making things a little more realistic for the next twelve months. Taking a cue from our columnist, Melody Murphy, and her wonderful suggestions in the pages to come, I’ve filled my calendar with a slew of appointments that will serve as tent poles from one busy week to the next. However, instead of zeroing in on weird and obscure holidays—sorry, Melody!—I plan on doubling down on all the things that are sure to bring me a smile or two.

Lunches—I’m fortunate to have a job with a flexible schedule and often my lunches are nothing more than ones with clients or quick trips to the house for a sandwich, a bowl of soup, and a quick scan at the headlines or I plan on making social media. Instead, I’m going to try to be more things a little intentional here and block out some time with the more realistic people I really want to see. for the next I have at least a dozen dining options within walktwelve months. ing distance of my office downtown, why not see them all over the course of a year? And if the budget tightens up, there are at least three parks within a five-minute drive. At least I’ll be outdoors!

Live Music—Most of you regulars know I’m a big music fan, so this one isn’t exactly a stretch, although COVID-19 altered this scene dramatically in the past couple of years. Still, 2021 finished with a bang in this department with great shows at the Reilly Arts Center, the Ocala Civic Theatre, and even an outdoor metalfest in Daytona to see Metallica. 2022 is already filling up fast, with upcoming shows by Los Lobos, Chris Botti, and a return to Rockville to see Foo Fighters already scheduled. The goal is at least one per month.

Phone Calls—Both of my parents live out of state and don’t travel much these days, so until I can carve out a block of time and hop on a plane, I certainly can pick up the phone more often. I love the sound of their voices, which take me right back to childhood, even if all we’re

8

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

talking about is the latest round of doctors appointments or car repairs. I’ve learned over the years that it’s less about what we say and more that we’re just sharing the line.

Sometimes it’s almost like they’re sitting in front of me.

Vacations—These days, weeklong trips for fun can be hard to manage, but we do live in a state with lots of options just a few hours away. I think it’s time to rediscover the small-town charms of Apalachicola in the Panhandle, Flagler Beach on the Atlantic, and Downtown Dunedin on the Gulf of Mexico for long weekends. Who knows? It might even be time to be a full-blown tourist again and hit the Magic Kingdom or Daytona Beach for a day or two of nostalgic fun.

The goal will be to stay busy—on my terms. So while I may not embrace Hug Day like Melody suggests—Get it, “embrace?”—I do plan to follow her advice. I’ll probably even take her to lunch once or twice like we usually do to catch up on assignments, mutual friends, etc. How does Ivy on the Square sound, Mel? Now I just hope that you do the same.

All the best,

Everyone who knows me well is aware that I love music of all kinds, so...

What’s Dean Playing?

Robert Plant & Alison Krauss, “Raise The Roof”—This delayed sequel, 14 years in the making, was well worth the wait. The pair’s distinctive voices sound great together, particularly on Lucinda Williams’ “Can’t Let Go” and The Everly Brothers’ “The Price Of Love.”

Los Lobos, “Wolf Tracks: The Best Of Los Lobos”—Get ready for the Latin-fused group’s February 12th show at the Reilly with this wonderful compilation. It has a pair of cuts from “La Bamba” and a slew of key album tracks from their long career.

Aerosmith, “Greatest Hits”—They’ve had other compilations, but I love the quality and brevity of this first one that focuses on the Columbia years, especially “Walk This Way” and “Back In The Saddle.” Just in time for a February 26th tribute show at Circle Square Cultural Center.

ReillyArtsCenter.com | 352-351-1606 | 500 NE 9th Street ReillyArtsCenter.com | 352-351-1606 | 500 NE 9th Street

good start

Written & Compiled By JoAnn Guidry & Cynthia Brown

GOOD HEALTH:

A Good Sweat Don Noel, Ken Knapp, Jeff Strysko, David Shira, Michele Strysko, Bill Sturm, GB (Joe) Josephson, Bill Strawn, Derrill McDanel, Morris Foreman, Kemp Howland, Bari Stone, Dan Lack

CLUB CORNER:

Back To The Future Teslas

A

longtime member of the Ocala chapter of the Citizens’ Climate Lobby, Dan Lack started feeling a bit uncomfortable driving to meetings in his Toyota Camry.

“The Citizens’ Climate Lobby is very involved in promoting climate change legislation,” says Lack, a retired developmental optometrist who has lived in On Top of the World for a decade. “I was going around the county speaking to groups about how one gas-engine car releases more than four metric tons of carbon dioxide a year. And I was driving one of those gas-engine cars. So in December 2019, I bought an all-electric Tesla.”

Lack describes the Tesla “as the car of the future that I can recharge every night by plugging it into the dryer outlet in my garage.”

Currently a part-time math tutor for elementary to high school students, Lack reached out to other Tesla owners in the area. Beginning in January 2020, a group of Tesla owners was meeting regularly at OTOW’s Sid’s Cafe. As the group’s number grew and outgrew Sid’s, it transitioned to an official OTOW club in June 2021.

“Our official name now is Tesla Owners and Enthusiasts of On Top of the World. You don’t have to own a Tesla to be a club member, but you do have to be an OTOW resident,” says Lack, who serves as the group’s president. “We meet on the second Wednesday of each month at 10am in the Arbor Activity Center Card Room II. At the present time, we don’t have any kind of membership fees. Future plans are to have guest speakers about Teslas and climate change.”

For more information, contact Dan Lack at dlack10. cfl.rr.com or 509-4942.

10

After a good gardening session in our nearly year-round warm Florida weather, do you find yourself sweating a lot and for quite awhile?

According to a recent Canadian study, seniors sweat more when they’re low on body fluids and this can lead to higher risk of heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and heat stress-related cardiovascular issues.

Sweating is our body’s way of cooling us off, but it also makes us lose fluid, which in turn increases the concentration of sodium in our blood. When this concentration gets high, aka the body gets dehydrated, a young adult will stop sweating as much, begin to feel overheated and thirsty, and reach for water. But older adults are less responsive to this process with a lot of sweating and fluid loss continuing without the warning of feeling dehydrated to prompt drinking water. And this is where the risk of heat-related problems rises. Be on the lookout for signs of dehydration such as dizziness, confusion, and fatigue.

Seniors need to be proactive about drinking enough water throughout the day, especially on physically-active days. The basic recommendation is eight 8-ounce glasses a day.

But it’s best to check with your healthcare provider and discuss what’s best for you so you can break a good sweat.

Source: thehealthy.com

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

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2022

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OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

11

good start CLUB CORNER:

Calling All OTOW Birders

After taking a break due to COVID-19 restrictions, the Birding Group of On Top of the World is back to communing with their favorite creature.

“We are resuming our monthly field trips beginning in October 2021 and through April 2022,” says Margitta Claterbos, the club’s administrator. “We meet on the last Thursday morning of each month to carpool to different parks in the area to go birding. We generally also have an experienced birder as a guest speaker. After an enjoyable morning, we stop for lunch at a restaurant near the park.”

If you are an OTOW resident and would like to join the Birding Group, please contact Margitta Claterbos at mclaterbos@gmail.com.

Photo: Nancy Stephens

GOOD NEWS:

T

GOOD QUOTE:

“The grand essentials to happiness in this life are something to do, something to love, and something to hope for.”

—George Washington Burnap 12

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

Who’s A Good Dog? K-9 Graham.

he Ocala Police Department’s newest member to its K-9 unit is K-9 Graham, a Belgian Malinois named after late OPD Chief of Police Greg Graham, who joined OPD in 1983, served as its chief of police from 2012 to 2020, and died when the plane he was piloting crashed on October 25, 2020.

K-9 Graham, who was donated to OPD by local business owners Doug Cone (Cone Distributing) and John Duggan (Black Label Marine Group), is certified as an apprehension and drug detection canine. Cone and Duggan covered the total cost of $9,500 for K-9 Graham, who had to go through 480 hours of initial certification training before being able to work actively on patrol. All OPD K-9s continue with ongoing training throughout their careers.

“Chief Graham left a huge legacy,” says current OPD Chief of Police Mike Balken. “Having a K-9 that carries his name is just one way that we can continue to remember a great man.”

GOOD NUMBER:

3.7 Billion

That’s the number of cups of tea consumed daily around the world, second only to water. According to a new study from the University of California, Irvine, anti-hypertensive properties in both green and black tea could help lower high blood pressure and lead to the design of new blood-pressure lowering medications.

UPCOMING PROGRAMS All programs and events are free to attend unless otherwise noted. All programs are subject to cancellation as deemed necessary.

FIRST FRIDAY ART WALK Downtown Ocala First Friday of the month | Jan. 7-May 6 | 6-9 p.m.

First Friday Art Walk is a free event located within Ocala’s historic downtown. Event festivities include over 30 artist displays, live entertainment, free family art activities provided by local arts organizations and extended shopping hours.

RECREATION COMMUNITY TOWN HALL | AGES 16+ E.D. Croskey Recreation Center | 1510 NW Fourth St. Third Saturday of the month Jan. 15-June 18 | 10-11 a.m.

Learn about upcoming programs, projects and events at the Recreation Town Hall meetings.

The community is welcome to come ask questions and offer input to representative from various city departments. Light refreshments will be provided.

DISCOVERY DATE NIGHT | AGES 18+ Discovery Center | 701 NE Sanchez Ave. Friday | Jan. 28 | 6:30-9 p.m.

Discover a new way to do Date Night! We will be exploring the new Brain Games exhibit at this hands-on Date Night. Challenge your date to our giant games, enjoy light refreshments and explore the Discovery Center in a unique experience just for adults. Register at MyDiscoveryCenter.org. $30/couple.

FOOT LOOSE LINE DANCING Eighth Avenue Adult Activity Center 830 NE Eighth Ave. Tuesdays | 11 a.m. Noon Come join us for an hour of dancing fun.

This class is for anyone who loves to dance, whether you are experienced, or new to the dance floor. You will learn the basic steps of many soul and line dances while getting a workout at the same time.

FOREVER YOUNG SENIOR AEROBICS | AGES 50+ E.D. Croskey Recreation Center | 1510 NW Fourth St. Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays 10-11 a.m. | 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

You’ll feel Forever Young with this fun workout!

All moves are performed in a chair for efficient and low impact movements. The class focuses on aerobics, conditioning, strengthening, and increasing flexibility while grooving to your favorite tunes.

YOGA IN THE FORT | AGES 18+ Fort King National Historic Landmark 3925 E Fort King St. Saturdays | 9-10 a.m.

Join us for Yoga in the Fort. All fitness levels and body types will benefit from this class and pose modifications will be provided as needed.

Class will be taught by local yoga instructor DeNaya Wilkerson, owner of DeNaya Yoga. $5/person.

LUNCH WITH THE ARCHAEOLOGIST Fort King National Historic Landmark 3925 E Fort King St. Thursdays | Jan. 20 and Feb. 17 | 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

Bring a lawn chair, pack a lunch and join us for Lunch with the Archaeologist! We will be talking about Fort King and the artifacts that have been found on-site as well as Q&A time with the archaeologists.

BLUEGRASS & BBQ Tuscawilla Art Park | 213 NE Fifth St. Friday | Jan. 21 | 6-9 p.m.

Enjoy live musical performances by award nominated bluegrass artists the Po’ Ramblin’ Boys and Applebutter Express as well as local artisans, a cash bar, and BBQ food trucks, among the public art and backdrop of the historic Ocala Union Train Station. Tickets are $7 online/$10 gate. Visit ocalafl.org/artpark for more information.

BEGINNING OF BOLTED ART (BOBA) BRUNCH Magnolia Art Xchange | 531 NE First Ave. Saturday | Feb. 19 | 9-11 a.m.

Ocala Cultural Arts presents the Beginning of Bolted Art (BOBA) Brunch. Before taking your stroll around the newly installed sculptures, engage with the artist panel, music, brunch, and mimosas on the beautiful platform of the Ocala Union Station. Tickets are $25 presale / $30 door. $5 of every ticket will benefit a local nonprofit Magnolia Art Xchange. For more information, visit ocalafl.org/artpark.

SCULPTURE STROLL CELEBRATION Tuscawilla Art Park | 213 NE Fifth St. Saturday | Feb. 19 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

The City of Ocala presents the Tuscawilla Sculpture Stroll Celebration on Saturday, February 19 from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. The event is complimentary and will celebrate the installation of 10 new sculptures displayed throughout the park, feature tours, live musical performances, food trucks, art vendors and art activities provided by local nonprofits. For information, visit ocalafl.org/artpark.

LEGO® LOUNGE: DISCOVERY NIGHT FOR ADULTS | AGES 18+ Discovery Center | 701 NE Sanchez Ave. Friday | Feb. 25 | 6:30-9 p.m.

The adults are taking over the Discovery Center! Engage your inner child to create something truly timeless during our LEGO® Lounge. We will help you build, create and explore all things LEGO® with this handson event. Cost is $16 per person or $30 per couple. Register at MyDiscoveryCenter.org.

PAWS ICE CREAM SOCIAL Letty Towles Dog Park | 2299 SE 32 Ave. Saturday | Feb. 19 | 10 a.m.-Noon We all bark for ice cream! Join us at the Letty Towles Dog Park for PAWS Ice Cream Social. We have partnered up with our neighborhood ice cream shop, Twistee Treat to offer your pooch a doggy ice cream treat! Enjoy meeting and greeting other pet lovers, an ice cream treat for yourself and fun dog-themed activities.

CARDS AND FRIENDS | AGES 50+ Eighth Avenue Adult Activity Center 830 NE Eighth Ave. Saturday | March 12 | 2-7 p.m.

If you play Bid Whist, Spades, Hand and Foot, or Pinochle, come on out for an afternoon of fun, fellowship, and laughter. $3/person.

REJUVENATE WITH THE ARTS | AGES 50+ Eighth Avenue Adult Activity Center 830 NE Eighth Ave. Second and fourth Tuesdays of the month 10 a.m.-Noon Get crafty with these fun DIY workshops to renew and discover your artistic abilities.

Create your own project to take home. A new design every session! $5/person/class.

Register for programs at ocalafl.org/recpark orOCALA’S call 352.368.5517

GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

13

good start January 1966 REMEMBER WHEN?

MOTOR TREND CAR OF THE YEAR:

1966 Oldsmobile Toronado

“Never in the 14-year history of this award has the choice been so obvious and unanimous. The Toronado is symbolic of a resurgence of imaginative engineering and tasteful styling in the U.S auto industry. Oldsmobile is a newcomer to the ranks of award winners. Perhaps if Motor Trend had been in existence before World War II, Oldsmobile would have a collection of trophies.”

Source: motortrend.com

$

Price Check Gallon of Gas $0.31 Gallon of Milk $0.49 New House $16,500 New Car $2,650 First Class Stamp $0.04 Dozen Eggs $0.57 Toothpaste $0.50 Average Income $6,900 Sources: thepeoplehistory.com, 1960sflashback.com

The Top 10 Hits 1 We Can Work It Out–The Beatles 2 Barbara Ann–The Beach Boys 3 She’s Just My Style–Gary Lewis &

The Box Office 5The Silencers–$16,318,124 A Man and a Woman–$14,000,000 Harper–$12,000,000 Source: the-numbers.com

14

the Playboys 4 No Matter What Shape–The T-Bones 5 Five O’Clock World–The Vogues 6 Tears Go By–The Rolling Stones 7 The Men In My Little Girl’s Life– Mike Douglas 8 A Must To Avoid–Herman’s Hermits 9 My Love–Petula Clark 10 Jenny Take A Ride–Mitch Ryder & the Detroit Wheels Source: top40weekly.com

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

CALENDAR NOTABLES: Jan. 16: National Nothing Day—Ever been caught “doing nothing” and shamed into feeling lazier than the average person? A mind-teaser does occur to us, though. IIf you’re doing nothing, aren’t you doing something, with nothing as the thing you’re doing?

Feb. 13: Galentine’s Day—We’re quick to shower our significant others with gifts and treats on February 14, but the day prior was designed to celebrate other equally important relationships in our lives: our girlfriends! Galentine’s Day is a time to bring together the ladies in your life you love most.

Feb. 25: National Clam Chowder Day—There are few things as comforting as a bowl of warm clam chowder on a winter’s day. Originally considered a “poor man’s” food, the first chowders were fish stews made from vegetable and fish stewed in a large pot or cauldron. Clams are thought to have been introduced to the mix by the Native Americans and by the mid-1800s were considered a main ingredient in what came to be known as clam chowder.

Source: nationaltoday.com

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

15

My Florida

By Melody Murphy [melody@ocalasgoodlife.com]

A Year To Celebrate

2

020 was a rough year.

I know I’m not the only one who felt shellshocked by the end of it, wondering anxiously what 2021 had in store. It seemed incomprehensible that there could be good things ahead in the great unknown of the year to come.

So when I sat down with my 2021 planner last New Year’s Day, I filled in the birthdays of family and friends, put stars by the holidays I celebrate, marked the full moons and meteor showers, and penciled in appointments. And then I thought, “Is that it? Surely there must be something else to look forward to this year.”

But I had no trips scheduled. Going places was still uncertain. Events were up in the air. Entertainment options were limited. The prospect of a dingy grey year awaited, colorless and dreary.

I couldn’t have that. So I googled unusual holidays and observances, did some research, and filled in my planner with little opportunities for celebration. And I set out to enjoy 2021—in spite of itself.

Friends, there is a National Day for everything. I had no shortage of festivity.

I noted the days for my favorite foods, drinks, and activities. If you have a hard time deciding what to cook, it is wonderful to flip a page and see that there are four days honoring your favorite foods next week. It makes grocery shopping so much easier. “My planner told me to eat cheese on Tuesday,” you can say to yourself, feeling righteous as you reach for a large wheel of Gouda.

I looked up the birthdays of my favorite authors, actors, and musicians. I added some historic events and the birthdays of certain fictional characters. And then I set out to brighten the dark days of 2021.

I did this not just for myself, but for my friends as well. I decided to surprise them with festive interludes. So

Find some small thing to celebrate every day.

16

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

I would tell them, come over tomorrow, or let’s meet for lunch or dinner, only saying we had something to celebrate. As it turned out, they enjoyed it as much as I did.

In January, I baked with pecans on Georgia Statehood Day. Shortbread Day fell on Epiphany, so I baked star-shaped shortbread and took batches to friends. My friend Jessica and I had dinner at Cracker Barrel for our patron saint Dolly Parton’s birthday. I wore my Dolly T-shirt and played her music all day.

The inauguration was on Cheese Lovers Day, so I had friends over for a fondue brunch to watch it. I summoned my best friend to my house on Hug Day simply so I could hug her. Every day is Hot Sauce Day to me, but I made the most of it. On Pie Day, my friend Gina and I celebrated with Key lime at Harry’s, followed by a brisk walk. (If you’re going to celebrate the foods you love, you really must be diligent about your walking routine. You can do both. I believe in you.)

On Peanut Butter Day, my friend Eryn and I drove to Ormond Beach for a PB&J picnic. It was a chilly, misty grey day, and the wind blew sand into our sandwiches, but it was worth it. We walked the beach to earn our peanut butter cookies.

I said nice things to friends on Compliment Day, which should be every day. We do not tell people the things we love about them often enough. Every day is a chance to say something kind. People don’t always know the good things about themselves. Tell them.

Croissant Day coincided with the day Laura and I had opened Always… Patsy Cline at OCT one year ago.

For breakfast, I fixed our favorite chocolate croissants, and bacon and eggs like Patsy and her friend Louise cooked together in the show. As it was a cold morning and the next day was Hot Chocolate Day, we killed two birds with one cacao nib and added that too. And of course, I had Patsy Cline singing in the background.

And that was just the first month of 2021. I kept up the celebrations for the entire year. Did I continue the tradition with this year’s planner? Reader, you know I did—and I recommend it for you too. Find some small thing to celebrate every day. It brightens a dark year and adds sparkle to a good one. Wishing you a festive 2022!

Editor's Note: Need a jumpstart on Melody's suggestions?

Well, we always have a list of unusual holidays in our GoodStart section. Check out page 14 in this issue!

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GOOD NEIGHBORS: CARL PAGE

Trop Rockin’ Salt Springs resident Carl Page discovers that life can take unexpected turns into a new chapter, leading to a never-imagined music career.

BY JOANN GUIDRY

L

isten to singer/songwriter Carl Page’s “Somewhere East of A1A” and you’ll want to jump in your car and head to Daytona Beach. Can’t do that? Then just watch the song’s YouTube video and Carl, actually singing and playing his guitar on the beach, can be your surrogate. Either way, you’ve been smitten by the tropical rock vibe.

“Trop rock” as defined by the Tropical Rock Music Association is a genre of popular music that “incorporates elements of rock and roll, country, Caribbean, reggae, and other musical genres to create a laid-back or escapist state of mind.” The genre’s roots trace to the 1980s, led by Jimmy Buffett & The Coral Reefer Band, the Beach Boys, and Bertie Higgins. The prevalence of the Parrot Head clubs, formed by Buffett fans, spurred the growth of trop rock into the thriving genre it is today.

Carl’s “Somewhere East of A1A” was a 2017 Top 5 hit on a weekly top 40 countdown of independent internet radio stations. In August 2018, Carl scored a #1 trop rock internet radio hit with his “Key Lime Wine.” The latter is also the title of Carl’s first trop rock CD, released this past July.

ALL OF THIS IS A BIT AMAZING considering that before he became a charting tropical rock artist, Carl dis-

20

played scant musical aptitude.

“My family was not musical at all,” says Carl, 63, who spent his early years in Massachusetts and New Hampshire before moving to Miami when he was 10. “I played the trumpet in junior high, but wasn’t very good at it. I tried to play the guitar a couple of times, but could never get the hang of it. So that was the end of me trying to do anything with music.”

It wasn’t that Carl didn’t like music. During his growing-up years in Miami, K.C. and The Sunshine Band was one of his favorites. Then Gloria Estefan and the Miami Sound Machine caught his attention, particularly their Caribbean music.

“I’ve always liked all kinds of music, from rock to country to any music with that Caribbean vibe,” says Carl,

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

who served four years in the United States Marines and then owned a pest control business for 20 years. “But I most certainly never thought I’d ever have any kind of a career in music.”

In 1999, Carl and his wife Mel moved from Jacksonville to Salt Springs to care for her ill father. When Mel’s father died in 2000, he left her his home and property and the Pages became Salt Springs residents. Mel’s father also left her his guitar, a Gibson made in the 1940s, along with his harmonica.

“Not long after Mel’s dad passed, I kept looking at that Gibson guitar.

Then one day, I just picked it up and started playing,” recalls Carl, who began a lawn service business when the couple moved to Salt Springs. “I used an auto tune machine to hear what

a chord should sound like and then would play it by ear. And that’s how I finally learned to play guitar. I’ve been playing ever since.”

CARL WAS SOON SINGING along to his guitar playing and began going to jam sessions in the area.

“I’m an okay singer, at least good enough that people don’t throw things at me,” says Carl with a laugh. “I sang and played a lot of bluegrass and country at those sessions. So at one jam session, I performed my own version of The Eagles’ ‘Peaceful Easy Feeling’ and most people seemed to like it. But one lady came up to me and said, ‘That’s not how the song goes.’ I told her it was my own take on the song.”

And that was Carl’s epiphany to start writing songs. He can be inspired by daily life, a word, or a phrase he hears or by meeting a special person.

“Jordan King, who is the best guitar player I have ever heard, was my inspiration to write “Somewhere East of A1A”,” notes Carl. “And I traded lawn service for Jordan giving me actual formal guitar lessons just this year.”

To date, Carl has written some 400 songs. Whenever inspiration strikes, he usually writes on the couch or outside on the porch. A high school class reunion led to “Key Lime Wine.”

“Mel grew up in Salt Springs and went to North Marion High School,” explains Carl. “So we went to a class reunion and one of her classmates tells us that he makes key lime wine. I loved that and it inspired me to write the song.”

Key Lime Wine would soon also become the name of the Pages’ duo.

“We were at a jam session and a woman was playing the harmonica,” recounts Carl. “I looked at Mel, whose father had played the harmonica, and said, ‘You could do that.’”

“Although I grew up listening to my father playing the harmonica,” Mel adds, “I never did try it. But I just loved the sound of the harmonica the woman was playing. Next thing I know, Carl comes home with a harmonica that he bought for me and I decided to give it a try.”

Just like her husband of 28 years learned to play the guitar by ear, Mel did the same with the harmonica. She currently owns 11 harmonicas and now plays the bongos, too. Whenever possible, the Pages perform as Key Lime Wine.

“I really love playing music and watching people react to Carl’s songs.

He is an amazing songwriter,” says Mel. “We’re a good team and we have a lot of fun doing the shows.”

Carl & Mel Page

SHORTLY AFTER HE RELEASED “Somewhere East of A1A”, Carl met Lyle Wilson, an internet DJ who specializes in promoting trop rock.

Wilson’s weekly “Weekdays With Wilson” airs on Radio A1A, which is based in Islamorada, Florida.

“Lyle was kind enough to interview me on his radio show in June 2017 and my song really took off from there. I will forever be grateful to Lyle for that exposure.

He does so much for original trop rock artists,”

says Carl. “If people are curious about trop rock, I recommend listening to the independent internet radio stations that play it. But the best thing to do is go to a live show.”

With the COVID-19 pandemic abating, Carl is back to playing gigs whenever and wherever he can. His venues range from the Ocala Downtown Market and local taverns to regional musical festivals and large cruise ships. Favorite Ocala spots include The Keep, The Off Duty Tavern, and The Hawk’s Nest. Carl, who is an ambas-

Carl scored a #1 trop rock internet radio hit with his “Key Lime Wine.” sador for the Tropical Rock Music Association, promotes the trop rock genre wherever he goes.

“There’s nothing like playing before a live audience and having them respond to your music,” says Carl, who is currently an escort driver for a mobile home transport company. “I like to say that I’m a part-time escort driver and a full-time musician.”

Full time enough to now have his own home studio, aka Key Lime Wine Studio. It’s where he recorded his latest CD, “Driftin’ On The Gulf,” due to be released this September.

“I love writing and playing music.

It’s amazing to me that my songs can be downloaded on any streaming service and I can earn royalties while sitting here on my porch in Salt Springs with one of my grandkids,” says Carl, a grandfather of five. “It just goes to show you that life is full of surprises.”

WANT TO KNOW MORE? Facebook: Follow Carl Page/Key Lime Wine Singer Songwriter Online: troprock.org

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

21

just my t y pe

by Mary Ellen [maryellen@ocalasgoodlife.com]

Let’s Go To The Movies

A recent newspaper article reminded me of the many films I’ve seen in my life.

22

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

Paramount Pictures

A

recent newspaper article listing the ten must-see movies of the 2021-2022 holiday season reminded me of the many films I’ve seen in my life. That article also prompted thoughts of how the craft of movie making has changed over the years.

A compelling narrative and engaging plot are still paramount to a successful motion picture. Characters with complicated back stories while dealing with love, major life changes, personal losses, and sometimes the end of the world will also keep your eyes riveted to the silver screen. And although those basic story requirements still drive a plot along, special effects such as computer-generated images (CGI) bring unbelievable fantasy civilizations, magical scenes, and supernatural creatures to life. But when did the use of special effects in movies begin?

The earliest known special effects sequence was in the short film, The Execution of Mary Stuart in 1895. Produced

by Thomas Edison and directed by Alfred Clarke, the re-enactment is only 18 seconds long and the first to use editing as a special effect to simulate the beheading of Mary Queen of Scots.

One of my favorite holiday movies is Babes in Toyland (1934) aka March of the Wooden Soldiers. As a child I knew the bogeymen in their full-body hairy costumes weren’t real, but even without special effects creating that image, their screaming, snarling faces scared me just the same.

What makes this film so unforgettable for me is the last four minutes. Thanks to stop-motion animation, the giant toy soldiers make a dramatic entrance and march triumphantly out of the toy factory to rescue Toyland from evil Silas Barnaby and the dreaded bogeymen.

What about the early horror flicks like Dracula (1931) starring Bela Lugosi, and The Wolf Man (1941) starring Lon Chaney Jr.? Count Dracula transforms into a nocturnal creature off camera with special effects of the day limited to fog, lighting, and large flexible rubber bats suspended by wire. Larry Talbot also turns into The Wolfman off camera, but special effects were employed in his

final death scene when he morphed from werewolf back to human form.

As technology became more sophisticated, so did the art of producing extraordinary images on screen. Another personal favorite of mine is “the parting of the Red Sea” in The Ten Commandments (1956). Too complicated to describe the process here in a few sentences, that impressive sequence took six months to create and is considered the most difficult special effect ever performed up to that time and thought by many to be one of the greatest special effects ever created. Rear projection and blue screen methods were also used in scenes throughout the epic biblical drama. John P. Fulton won a Best Photographic Effects Academy Award for his work on the film.

On the other hand, I recently saw the original 1951 version of Angels in the Outfield starring Paul Douglas as the grumpy, potty-mouthed baseball team manager, and Janet Leigh as a newspaper reporter. What makes this movie stand out? No special effects portrayed the ballplaying cherubs. So how did you know there were angels in the outfield? The looks on the actor’s faces alone told you they saw those heavenly beings. My favorite moment was when a single white feather floated to the ground from a celestial wing, indicating angels were present and playing baseball. Brilliant!

There’s no denying that computer-generated images have changed the craft of movie-making and bringing stories to life, such as the Harry Potter series, Star Wars, Star Trek, and Jurassic Park, just to name a few. The list could go on and on, but you get the picture, no pun intended.

So I guess what I’m trying to say is that we love movies no matter how they’re made or how we view them.

And although we get a little help from our friendly codewriting special effect technicians, one thing remains the same. There must be a story that hooks you and keeps you interested with characters you care about that hopefully live happily ever after.

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23

DAYCATION: GRANDVIEW CLYDESDALES

Champions In Our Backyard

By Rick Allen

A tour at Grandview Clydesdales is “the perfect day trip” and a great way to see these magnificent animals up close and personal.

24

I

t’s probably a pretty safe bet that for most of us, our experience with the majestic Clydesdale horses is from TV, probably commercials featuring the team pulling the Budweiser beer wagon. Or perhaps some have encountered them

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

at an Anheuser-Busch theme park or on one of the team’s rare visits to Ocala in the past.

But that’s no longer the case.

Grandview Clydesdales, a working Clydesdale farm east of Dunnellon dedicated to raising, training, and showing the majestic animals, now opens its

gates to provide an up-close encounter with these magnificent horses. And it’s a great way to spend a few hours in the splendor that is horse country.

“It’s the perfect day trip,” says Karen Cobbs, who with her husband, Shannon, runs the farm.

Though operating locally for nearly nine years, the Cobbs family began opening for public tours just in time to be closed again due to pandemic restrictions. But they recently re-launched the tours, both in the morning and evenings.

“This is for people to come enjoy these horses in their environment,” says Karen. “Having a true treasure in their backyard with multiple world- and national-champion Clydesdales here is unheard of. It’s something to be proud of that we can share with our community. Hopefully the community can embrace them and be proud of them as well.”

The two-hour tours offered at 10am on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday focus on the education and history of this breed of horse. Evening tours offered at 6pm the same days are less formal.

Clydesdales are an ancient and noble breed dating back hundreds of years in Scotland, where they were tireless workers, and descended from the war horses of armored knights throughout the Middle Ages.

“We’ve reliably documented someone in our family working with Clydes back to 1240,” Shannon says. “There’s never been a generation in our family that hasn’t had Clydesdales in their lives.”

Until about nine years ago, the operations were located in Indiana, on the same farm where Shannon grew up and developed his love for the breed. They still have the farm in Indiana, but here it’s just the five of them: Shannon and Karen and their sons Hessten, 21, Nash, 18, and Stone, 7.

“This is a true, working Clydesdale farm,” Shannon adds, “and family-run.”

WHETHER IT’S MORNING or evening, the tour starts at the Grandview gates just north of CR 484 not far from the Marion County Airport. Karen recently invited my wife, Susan, and me to join one of their holiday evening tours. Susan was especially excited, as

Clydesdales are her favorite breed.

We’d visited the Budweiser team years ago in downtown Ocala, but this would go far beyond that brief encounter, essentially an all-access backstage pass into the care and breeding of these magnificent animals.

At five minutes before the tour starts, someone from the family comes to open the gates and lead a caravan of the guests to the parking area in front of their home. As an icebreaker, Shannon and Karen ask each guest to call out their name and where they’re from. The night we were there, there was an abundance of guests from Rhode Island.

“You know,” Shannon says, “Marion County is as big as Rhode Island.”

“Hey,” quips Karen, who hails from Manitoba in Central Canada. “I’ve got Clydesdales larger than Rhode Island.”

Everyone chuckles—well, except for maybe some of the Rhode Islanders!

Then we’re ushered into a side room of what turns out to be the show barn. The walls are lined with plaques, ribbons, and certificates, testament to several lifetimes devoted to the development, advancement, and showing the breed.

“We’ve had 327 national champions, more than any farm in the United States,” Shannon says. “Every horse you’ll meet tonight is not only a past national champion, but is a current national champion.”

On the evening tours, it’s here where Shannon and Karen touch on the history and showing of Clydesdales.

Tours under the lights are more for the romance and magic of the Clydes, while the mornings focus more on education and history, as well as some of the nitty-gritty of the farm.

“Clydesdales,” Shannon explains, “take a lot more work than any other breed.”

While there may be some 40 horses on the ranch, the stars are the eight geldings in the show barn.

“He is big,” exclaims the diminutive Doris Whitehead, a fellow guest on the tour, as she enters the barn and walks under Gavin’s head poking out from his stall. At 19 “hands”—a horse

measurement equal to four fingers or four inches—he towers over her. Nineteen hands is roughly six-foot-fourinches, and that’s at the “withers” or the base of the neck.

Prior to this tour, Doris says, she’d only seen Clydesdales on television and realized she didn’t truly appreciate their

Grandview Clydesdales is a working farm east of Dunnellon dedicated to raising, training, and showing the majestic animals.

size. “They’re enormous horses,” she adds.

Of course, amazing horses get equally amazing residences. The show barn is like a four-star hotel for the horses.

“For them to get into this barn, they know they’ve made it,” Shannon says. “They are the professional athletes of this farm.”

Consider this: They’re fed three meals a day that include a mound of hay and a custom blend of grains, their stalls are mosquito- and fly-free, and they receive regular massages and acupuncture. Moreover, it’s not unusual to have an equine chiropractor in twice a month!

“No,” Shannon says, “they have no desire to leave. And each one has their own personality, just like people and just like dogs. They’re wonderful to be around.”

Most of the horses in the barn are between six and 20 years old, with the youngest at three, and average 19 hands and 2,200 pounds. That’s literally a ton of horse. Each!

“Putting this group of horses together for competition is just like building a professional sports team,” Karen says. “These guys here are like the NBA or NFL players of our industry.”

The tour then moves to a decorated outdoor pavilion. A mesmerizing “clop, clop, clop” announces that Gavin has been brought out to join us.

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

25

Photo: J. Brodland

WANT TO KNOW MORE? Grandview Clydesdale Farm

10020 SW 125th Ct Rd Dunnellon www.grandviewclydesdales.tours (260) 388-4279 Tours, both day and night, are limited and advance reservations are required.

Daytime and evening tours are $48 and are handicapped- and elderly-friendly.

The Grandview Invitational

“That,” Shannon admits, “is one of the greatest sounds.”

IT’S HERE THAT HE AND KAREN demonstrate the steps they go through to get each horse ready for competition. While Karen braids Gavin’s mane—a process called “rolling,” a traditional way to add the farm’s colors—Shannon dresses Gavin in his full harness. And when Gavin is fully “ready for primetime,”

“We’ve had 327 national champions, more than any farm in the United States.”

—Shannon Cobbs the Cobbs invite us up for holiday selfies with the horse.

Even within the time of a brief tour, it’s easy to see the Cobbs live intense lives. Every waking moment is dedicated to the animals in their care—and maybe some not-so-waking moments, too.

“To let people into our lives to experience a working Clydesdale farm,” Karen says, “is very personal.”

“I tell people we don’t have a yacht because we have show horses,”

26

Shannon adds, laughing. “It’s a lifestyle. If you didn’t love it, you wouldn’t do it.”

David and Gail Schultz, also on the tour and residents of On Top of the World, nod knowingly. They ran a purebred Dorset sheep farm in their younger days.

“Their lifestyle,” David admits, “we’re familiar with it.”

The tour moves to the gift shop for any final questions and where Karen plays some videos promoting their upcoming Grandview Invitational on the first weekend of February, a traditional all-class draft horse hitch show featuring Clydesdales, Belgians, and Percherons from around North America. This show will be held at the Florida Horse Park.

And to take advantage of the beautiful new World Equestrian Center, on the following weekend, the Cobbs inaugurate Grandview World Nights, a swanky new competition of limited events taking place there.

And with that, Karen slips away to meet with a few VIP guests, and we say goodbye.

Would we go back? Absolutely!

“It was exciting to see the power and majesty of these animals up close,” Susan says. “They’re huge, but they’re also gentle. I’d love to go back in the daytime to see more of what it takes to care for them day-in and day-out.”

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

February 4-6 The Florida Horse Park 11851 SW 16th Ave., Ocala www.grandviewinvitational.com Gates open at 8am and visitors can wander staging areas and watch pre-show preparations. Competitions start at noon.

Tickets start at $15.

Grandview World Nights

February 11-12 World Equestrian Center 1750 NW 80th Ave., Ocala www.grandviewworldnights.com Events begin at 6pm both evenings.

Tickets begin at $50.

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OUT & ABOUT

5 Jimanne Faul

5 Dennis & Laura Graves

5 Willy Diaz and Maxi Rodriguez

ker and Rose Yo

ung

Ocala Arts Festival

5 Cindy Pressley and Shanna Turpin

The annual Ocala Arts Festival drew thousands of people downtown in October. More than 160 artists took part in this year’s festival, while competing for $22,000 worth of award money. Presented by Fine Arts for Ocala, the festival also featured live music and entertainment on several downtown stages, lots of food vendors, plus student art tents and kids activities.

5 Nancy & Ron

Daley

Photos By Steve Floethe

5 Beth & Chris Knife 3 Janet Kreisman and Lois Smith

5 Jerry Nowak and Renee Oswell

nnah Preece

5 Amanda & Susa

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OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

5 Brian & Carla Marcum

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• Residency—Doheny Eye Institute (Los Angeles) • Fellowship—Barnes Retina Institute (St. Louis) Moorfields Eye Hospital (London)

EXPERTISE: • Macular Degeneration • Diabetic Retinopathy • Inherited Retinal Diseases • Inflammatory Diseases of the Eye • Multiple Sclerosis and Lyme Disease of the Eye • Surgery of the Retina, Vitreous, and Cataracts • Cutting Edge Diagnostic Testing • Glaucoma • Nutritional Medicine

Shalesh Kaushal, MD, PhD Welcoming Patients At Our New Ocala Office (SR 200).

Financial Advisors: Jason Clark, AAMS®; Patricia Conrad, CFP® ; Garrett Suydam, SVP Registered Associates: Lisa Gill; Jackie Klotz

Our mission is to make the complexity of the market easy to understand so that our clients can maximize their income and meet their retirement goals.

W

e offer a team approach to financial planning, offering you a broader scope of expertise than you will likely find in any one person. Clients are our main priority, which is why we work hard to understand your unique circumstances and ultimately create a distinctive plan that provides a roadmap for your financial journey.

Located near On Top of the World in the Publix Canopy Oak shopping center.

Mon-Fri 8:30am-4:30pm

Accepting Most Insurances including: MEDICARE, UNITED HEALTHCARE, BC/BS, HUMANA, AETNA, TRIWEST, CAREPLUS. For more insurance coverages please call the office.

Golf Cart Accessible from OTOW!

5353 SW College Rd Ocala, FL 34474

Please call for an appointment:

8075 SW Hwy 200 Ste 104 • Ocala 34481 352.854.6848 www.Suydam-Conrad.com

(352) 820-4445

www.ComprehensiveRetinaConsultants.com

Raymond James and Associates, Inc., Member New York Stock Exchange/SIPC

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

29

Good Health

By Cammy Dennis [cammy@ocalasgoodlife.com]

A New You In 2022!

A

re you contemplating a transformative resolution intended to reinvent a happier, healthier version of yourself? Well, good for you. Contemplation is the first step. The New Year rings in with a reenergized, optimistic outlook. This is the perfect time to reflect on the past and consider the future. A healthy, emotional perspective looks forward with courage and conviction. If you think opportunities to reinvent yourself have passed you by, it is not true. Make a change or dream a new dream. Now is the perfect time to create a new you in 2022!

A personal declaration intended to boost health and happiness needs structure, a plan on how to achieve it.

Contemplation and goal-setting is the first step. The next step in the construct is a critical one, identification. Try to identify what has prevented you from achieving your goal in the past, and then plan a strategy you can put into action. The best way to stick to your action plan is to savor the process. If you did not enjoy the diet you put yourself on or gain reward from your time at the gym, then you were destined to fail. Let us look at some strategies that make healthy behaviors something we want to do.

SHIFT YOUR MINDSET—Redirect thinking from “going on a diet” to “eating healthy.” This shift in perspective can make a huge difference. The concept of dieting will send your psyche into a tailspin; you know you will be facing deprivation and hunger. This will undermine your comfort and confidence. That is why diets do not work. Period. “Eating healthy” is much less threatening than dieting.

If your exercise does not energize and inspire you, you are doing the wrong exercise.

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OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

SWEAT & SMILE—If your exercise does not energize and inspire you, you are doing the wrong exercise. The key to exercise adherence is connection. Connect to something that you look forward to doing; it should be both recreation and exercise. If you are a social person, try group fitness classes. If you love the outdoors, find someone to walk with. If you love a challenge, then find something to train for. There are many great “Couch to 5K” programs out there.

SOLICIT SUPPORT—Many of my students use a smart phone app to track their nutrition. This scientificyet-simple process will get you results. You can eat foods you enjoy while staying within parameters to achieve your goal. Support groups also help develop a structure for healthy eating. Sharing your journey allows for the exchange of helpful information and is a lot more fun.

Putting these strategies into action is a great start; the hard part is sticking to them. The secret is to redirect your attention away from the result and focus on the process to get you there. Love your process and you will have success! Once healthy behaviors become habits, they are easier to sustain. Habits make things easier, and the human brain likes easy.

How do we make exercise a habit? Since I am a fitness professional, you may find it surprising to hear me say that joining a gym might not get you the health benefits you are seeking. The reason that people join a gym and then stop going is usually because they have not found a connection to something that provides reward and success. The best exercise for you is the one you will keep doing.

WANT TO KNOW MORE?

Join me and my colleague, OTOW Fitness Supervisor Jessica Pinkowski, for a deeper discussion on this topic at Sholom Park on January 21. Register for this free talk at sholompark.org/leaf-series Cammy Dennis is the fitness director for On Top of the World communities and The Ranch Fitness Center & Spa. She lives the lifestyle she promotes and has trained for triathlons throughout the state, aerobics while living in Tokyo, and various weightlifting events.

UNLOCK YOUR POTENTIAL Become the best version of you! The Ranch has everything you need to reach your health and wellness goals. Special limited time offers, join now!

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OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

31

14424 - 01/22

GOOD EATS: ELEVATION 89

Flights Into Flavor At The Ocala Airport

By Melody Murphy • Photos By John Jernigan

You’re cleared for takeoff at Elevation 89, your destination for dining well any day of the week.

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E

levation 89, the new restaurant at the Ocala Airport, just took off for business in October 2021 and it’s already climbed above the clouds for smooth flying. No turbulence or crosswinds here, just a well-crafted menu of American cuisine, food cooked perfectly, and a friendly and attentive staff.

The name comes from the airport’s elevation call signal, the location being 89 feet above sea level. The co-pilots of Elevation 89 are Chris Wilson (design and build) and local restaurant legend Rondo

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

Fernandez (food and beverage), owner and creator of the Mojo’s Grill chain. But Elevation 89 isn’t another Mojo’s—it’s very much its own establishment.

Sleek and modern, Elevation 89 is an intimate restaurant with the potential to easily accommodate larger crowds. The wall at one end of the dining room can be expanded to open up the space, perfect for their popular Sunday brunches. It’s also a great option if you want to rent the restaurant for a large private party (up to about 150 people). With the wall in place,

bar. Regardless of your choice of whiskey from their carefully curated bourbon bar list, their Old-Fashioned is not here to mess around. (And despite the name, Rough Rider is remarkably smooth.) If you’d prefer to pair wines with your meal, the wine list offers a premium selection of reds and whites.

We began with the porcinidusted scallops appetizer. This is not for sharing, unless you are an especially benevolent soul and also plan to eat a big dinner. More accurately, it’s good enough that you may not want to share.

You get four firm and tenChar-grilled filet mignon der jumbo scallops, earthy and extra-savory from their dusting of dried mushrooms, swimis tall and artfully stacked. If you are a ming in a bath of delicious roasted garlic Dijon cream sauce. In the middle person who posts pictures of your food to Instagram, you will feel the instant is a nest of fried onions that is just as good on its own as it is swiped through urge to snap this.

Our filet was cooked to a perfect the sauce. medium-rare that cut like butter. In The batter on the onions is light fact, the texture of everything that eveand crispy, not at all greasy. The choice ning was absolutely correct. You also of red onion instead of the typical will not need to salt anything. sweet variety for this The tang of the goat cheese nicely more delicate cousin offset the richness of the potatoes and to the onion ring is unusual, but it works, offering a little extra pepperiness while managing to avoid too much bite.

The filet gratinee is the crowning jewel of the dinner menu.

It stars a seasoned eight-ounce filet mignon, char-grilled and topped with goat cheese, spinach, and bacon bread crumbs.

The dish is garnished bread crumbs, and the bourbon notes with caramelized of the finishing sauce were just as onions and whipped emphatic as they were in our cocktails. potatoes, then the This is a place that likes its drinks and entire lily of a dish is flavors strong. gilded with a bourbon We also had the pescatore, a pasta demi-glace. dish resplendent with a variety of The presentation

Sleek and modern, Elevation 89 is an intimate restaurant with the potential to accommodate larger crowds.

Pasta pescatore

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

33

Photo: John Jernigan

the private room beyond is available for meetings or smaller parties.

High-top tables and chairs make up most of the seating in the blackand-silver dining room.

Aviation-themed prints dot the walls and big windows promise a clear look at landings and takeoffs on the tarmac. (If you’re going for dinner this winter, go early so you don’t miss the gorgeous open view with a sunset to remember.)

My friend Laura and I visited for dinner on a Wednesday evening in December. Though a newer restaurant, word already seemed to have gotten out about Elevation 89. There was an ample-sized crowd in a collectively good mood.

Elevation 89 keeps spirits high with a full

seafood. A platter of capellini pomodoro comes ornamented with sauteed shrimp, clams, and mussels, tossed

The Flight Plan Dinner Menu is an elegant selection of entrees. with shallots, garlic, and tomatoes, then flambéed in brandy. The delicate pasta is nicely al dente, and the roasted-tomato and brandy notes harmonize well together. Big flavors continue here, as the briny taste of fresh mussels and clams sings out strongly. The shrimp is

34

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

plump and succulent.

THE FLIGHT PLAN DINNER MENU (served 4pm to close) is an elegant selection of entrees, featuring beef, chicken, pork, fish, and seafood.

Soup, salad, nine side dishes, and a quartet of appetizers round out the evening choices. It’s definitely a specialoccasion-worthy menu.

Of interest for future visits: White truffle parmesan fries are a side dish a little out of the ordinary. A chilirubbed ribeye with cilantro lime butter sounds like a bright and intriguing combination of flavors. And the shrimp and grits include chorizo, which makes any dish livelier and even more delicious.

The chefs are creative geniuses, coming up with nightly specials like grouper stuffed with shrimp and scal-

lops, served in a Thai chili cream sauce with charred tomato and pineapple chutney, with buttered white rice and blackened asparagus on the side. And management is wonderfully, and vocally, enthusiastic and supportive of the visions being dreamed up in the kitchen.

If you’re visiting for lunch or looking for something a little more casual and budget-friendly for dinner, there are plenty of choices on the lunch/dinner menu (available 11am to close Monday through Saturday).

Enjoy hearty favorites like chili, nachos, and chicken wings served nine ways. (You know you want to find out what Sexy Wings are.) For something lighter, try a shrimp salad or a rice bowl with your choice of protein or veggie additions.

The sandwich selections sound

especially promising. There’s grouper, a Florida favorite, served blackened or grilled. For spice-loving souls, there’s Nashville hot chicken. And the grilled portobello mushroom with basil mayo on brioche sounds worthy of a lunchtime visit.

Or do you feel like sharing with friends? Get a charcuterie board or the chef ’s selection of desserts and pastries for the group.

The breakfast and brunch menu offers all the classics: biscuits and sausage gravy, omelets, French toast, waffles, pancakes, and more. The Eggs Benedict comes with a twist: Served on a biscuit, it’s topped with grilled shrimp and Cajun aioli. And the Sunday Fly-In Brunch kicks it up a notch, adding a Bloody Mary and mimosa bar.

Elevation 89 is open daily for breakfast and lunch, with reservations preferred for Sunday brunch. Dinner is served every night of the week but Sunday.

No matter when you visit, you’re sure to enjoy a smooth and pleasant “flight” featuring first-class food and service. With a crew climbing steadily to ever-higher altitudes and a clear vision, the sky’s the limit for Elevation 89.

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Scallops with fried onions

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OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement Jasmine Prof Park. redefined

35

cuisine queen

by Paula [paula@ocalasgoodlife.com]

More New Eateries!

T

wo unique and exciting eateries have opened in Ocala, Cantina TexMex & Tequila and Juniper General Store, both offering casual dining in fine dining atmospheres.

Cantina Tex-Mex & Tequila, 325-8226, opened on Southeast 1st Avenue in the two-story building that once housed Bank of America. The interior is indescribable with windows that give a gorgeous view of the Downtown area. If you’re looking for romantic, chic, or stylish, this restaurant offers all three. The artwork, the wall of lumber, and the stylish lighting will have you and your guests moving your head like an oscillating fan rather than just focusing on the delicious and healthy options from the menu.

Visit their Facebook page or website, cantinaocala. com, for hours, menu, and pictures.

Juniper General Store, 509-4006, is deep and roomy, located in the same plaza as Horse & Hounds. One side is a beautiful bar and the other has merchandise designed from local and national artisans. View a beautiful selection of jewelry, unique leather purses made from cowboy boots, candles, hats, pillows, and more. The bar has a comfortable couch area, a very long bar with ample seating, and a few long community tables. You can enjoy coffees, cold or hot, espresso, beer, and wine. The beer selection is twelve delectable flavors on tap curated from local breweries around Florida. Spanish wines are sold by the glass or bottle.

The interior is indescribable with windows that give a gorgeous view of the Downtown area.

36

Ocala’s Good Life magazine had our Christmas party there where you can order in, bring your own food, or purchase many of the charcuterie items on the shelves and in the fridge to be arranged on a board for you. Find their Facebook page or YouTube them for a very nice video of the whole unit.

A few columns ago, I had written about Symmetry Coffee Crepes, 657-1177, merging and moving.

They are happily staying in the Sovereign Building on North Magnolia and have opened a second cafe in Ocala Regional Medical Center. Symmetry has become a treat to my daughter and me on Saturday mornings downtown where coffee is served in very large coffee mugs, real not styrofoam. Our favorite is the everything bagel with egg, goat cheese, and a meat of your choice. It’s a wonderful place to wind down, check your emails, or (ahem) write a column.

Dina’s Place, 355-2118, is known for what most call some of the best New York-style pizza in the area.

Operating in the southeast part of Ocala for many years, Dina’s has relocated next to the Ocala Police Department where other pizza places have tried. The restaurant offers dine-in, takeout, and catering and serves classic and specialty pizzas as well as Italian dishes. See their menu and hours on their Facebook page.

Tidbits: Ocala City staff is ironing out the rules for an open-container law in Downtown Ocala. This law would not allow businesses to sell alcohol yearround, just during special events approved by the city council. Discussions will resume in the new year. Also on the table is reestablishing the ordinance to allow dogs in outdoor seating areas.

Betty Cakes Cafe, 622-3727, has opened a second location in the Ocala Courthouse. Restaurants including The Lion & The Bull and Big Lee’s Serious About Barbecue, 304-9105, have put in bids to take over the five-year city lease of Dee Dee’s Diner on Northeast 1st Avenue by the railroad tracks. When will Cody’s Original Roadhouse and The Mellow Mushroom open? Hopefully I’ll have those dates for you, next issue.

Happy New Year!

Got A Hot Tip For The Cuisine Queen?

E-mail me at paula@ocalasgoodlife.com

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

Enjoy fresh air dining at Red’s

Outdoor Patio!

Bring your appetite!

Great American food in a warm, friendly atmosphere!

For breakfast, you can’t beat Red’s–fluffy pancakes, perfect

Red’s

eggs, hot coffee. And there’s a reason why folks will wait for a table during lunch! Homemade hamburgers so big you can barely get your mouth around ‘em, delicious soups and salads. Don’t be fooled by the address–Red’s is just past Stumpknockers on SR 200. Come see what so many have already discovered about Red’s!

Breakfast & Lunch

Menu Items Include: Eggs, Pancakes, French Toast, Bacon,

8411 North Carl G Rose Hwy, Hernando Directions: Take SR 200 west. Located 1/4 mile past the Withlacoochee river

Homemade Burgers & Fries, Country Fried Steak, Meatloaf, Soup, Salads, Wraps, Sandwiches

(352) 344-4322

DINING GUIDE Enjoy our outdoor seating!

48 SW 1st Avenue, Ocala (352) 433-2570 • lacuisineocala.com Located in the heart of Ocala’s beautiful and vibrant historic downtown, come indulge yourself with our award-winning menu and dedicated service in a unique French-Bistro atmosphere. Owners operated since 2009, La Cuisine in Ocala has all the old-world charm of any romantic hideaway in Paris. Patrice and Elodie are here to welcome you!

In line with the French traditional way of cooking, every dish is made from carefully selected high quality fresh products and ingredients, prepared in-house and cooked to perfection with a modern twist.

Whether it is a business dinner, family brunch or a romantic evening for two, La Cuisine is definitely worth a closer look!

R

TRY OU

ENU! NEW M

Specialties: Escargots, Mussels, Pheasant, Beef Bourguignon, Bouillabaisse, Creme Brûlée, Soufflé Dinner Hours: Tues.-Sun. starting at 5pm.

Brunch: Sunday

11am-2pm

Live music on weekends.

Valentinee's Day

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

Make Your Reservations Today!

ivyhousee.com

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OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

Ocala 352-622-5550 | Williston 352-528-5410

DINING GUIDE Ocala’s first artisan gelato shop!

Homemade pastries, European style coffee, Fresh New York bagels & more.

Authentic Italian in a warm, intimate setting.

Mozzarella made fresh on-site every day by Chef Antonio.

After dinner, walk over to The Depot next door for live music and hand crafted drinks in a cozy speakeasy atmosphere.

Satisfy that sweet tooth!

Hours:

Mon.-Thurs.

11am-8pm Fri.-Sat. 11am-9pm

Closed Sun.

22050 N. US 441, Micanopy, FL 352-591-4141 • antonios.co

(352) 857-8080 • 6146 SW SR 200, Ocala Jasmine Square (A few doors down from Tax Collector/DMV)

Please Join Us In Welcoming Elevation 89 at The Ocala Airport To Our Family of Restaurants.

Ocala

Summerfield

Located at the Ocala Airport 1770 SW 60th Ave • (352) 655-2880

Summerfield

Weirsdale

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

39

Better-For-You Favorites For A Healthier Routine

T

FAMILY FEATURES

aking time to nurture your health and well-being starts with building healthier habits.

As the seasons change, chal­ lenge yourself to make small yet consistent choices that help you and your family through transitions at school, the office or wherever your days take you.

To help you establish (or re-establish) healthy habits during mealtime and beyond, consider these tips.

EAT MEALS TOGETHER

“Making time for meals together as a family provides a chance to connect and decompress,” said Bridget Wojciak, director of nutrition at Kroger Health, a national sponsor of the American Heart Association’s Healthy for Good initiative.

“In fact, regular meals at home can help reduce stress, boost self-esteem and improve feelings of connection.”

Bring everyone together with a betterfor-you seasonal favorite like Turkey and Bean Tostadas.

MAKE TIME FOR YOURSELF Chronic stress can have a negative impact on mental and physical health, but turning lost moments – like a meal by yourself spent mindlessly scrolling through social media – into mindful moments can help. Try practicing gratitude at the table by thinking of three things you’re grateful for or putting your fork down between each bite to savor the flavor and consider the nourishment you’re receiving.

ENJOY THE COOLER TEMPERATURES

Cooler temperatures can make it more enjoyable to take advantage of outdoor exercise, which is a good way to soak in vitamin D to improve your mood and boost immunity. Going for a brisk walk after mealtime (solo or with your pet), jogging and even raking leaves are examples of activities that count toward the American Heart Association’s recommended 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week.

Visit heart.org/healthyforgood to down­ load more heart-healthy recipes and find more tips for a healthier you in mind, body and heart.

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Tuna Pasta Casserole Photo courtesy of Getty Images

TUNA PASTA CASSEROLE

Recipe courtesy of the American Heart Association’s Healthy for Good initiative Servings: 4

4 ounces dried whole-wheat rotini pasta (about 1 1/2 cups) nonstick cooking spray 16 ounces frozen mixed vegetables, thawed

1 pouch (11 ounces) low-sodium chunk light tuna

1 can (10 3/4 ounces) low-fat, low-sodium condensed cream of chicken soup 1/2 cup chopped roasted red bell peppers 1/2 cup fat-free half-and-half

1 teaspoon all-purpose, salt-free seasoning blend 3/4 cup crushed low-sodium, whole-grain crackers 1/4 cup shredded or grated Parmesan cheese

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

Prepare pasta according to package directions, omitting salt. Using colander, drain well. Transfer to large bowl.

Preheat oven to 350 F. Lightly spray 2-quart glass baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.

Stir mixed vegetables, tuna, soup, roasted peppers, half-and-half and seasoning blend into pasta until combined. Transfer to baking dish. Top with crackers and Parmesan cheese.

Bake, uncovered, 25-30 minutes, or until casserole is warmed through and topping is golden brown.

Nutritional information per serving: 400 calories; 7 g total fat; 2.5 g saturated fat; 0 g trans fat; 2 g polyunsaturated fat; 2 g monounsaturated fat; 30 mg cholesterol; 537 mg sodium; 52 g carbohydrates; 8 g dietary fiber; 7 g sugars; 32 g protein.

TURKEY AND BEAN TOSTADAS

Recipe courtesy of the American Heart Association’s Healthy for Good initiative Servings: 5 Salsa:

2 cups chopped tomatoes

(about 2 medium tomatoes)

1 medium avocado, halved, pitted and diced

1 large ear of corn, husks and silk discarded, kernels removed 1-2 medium fresh jalapenos, seeds and ribs discarded,

finely chopped

2 tablespoons finely chopped red onion

2 tablespoons fresh lime juice Turkey and Bean Tostadas

GINGER PUMPKIN SOUP

Recipe courtesy of the American Heart Association’s Healthy for Good initiative Servings: 4 1 1/2 teaspoons canola or corn oil

1 medium onion, finely minced 3/4 tablespoon minced peeled gingerroot or 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

2 medium garlic cloves, minced, or 1 teaspoon bottled minced garlic 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme, crumbled 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper 1/8 teaspoon salt

1 tablespoon all-purpose flour 1 3/4 cups fat-free, low-sodium vegetable broth

1 cup water

2 cans (15 ounces each) solid-pack pumpkin

1 cup fat-free milk 1/4 cup fat-free sour cream (optional)

2 tablespoons chopped chives (optional) In large heavy pot, heat oil over medium-high heat, swirling to coat bottom. Cook onion 6-8 minutes, or until soft, stirring occasionally.

Stir in gingerroot, garlic, thyme, cinnamon, pepper and salt. Cook 1 minute, stirring constantly.

Stir in flour. Pour in broth and water. Using spatula, scrape bottom of pot to dislodge any browned bits. Stir in pumpkin. Bring mixture to boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer 10 minutes.

Stir in milk. Remove from heat. Ladle soup into bowls.

Garnish with sour cream and chives, if desired.

Nutritional information per serving: 138 calories; 2.5 g total fat; 0 g saturated fat; 0 g trans fat; 0.5 g polyunsaturated fat; 1 g monounsaturated fat; 1 mg cholesterol; 199 mg sodium; 27 g carbohydrates; 10 g dietary fiber; 14 g sugars; 6 g protein.

Ginger Pumpkin Soup

Tostadas: nonstick cooking spray

5 corn tortillas (6 inches each)

8 ounces ground skinless turkey breast

2 teaspoons chili powder

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon ground coriander

1 can (15 1/2 ounces) no-salt- added black beans, rinsed and drained

2 tablespoons water To make salsa: In small bowl, stir tomatoes, avocado, corn, jalapenos, onions and lime juice. Set aside.

Preheat oven to 400 F. To make tostadas: Line baking sheet with aluminum foil. Lightly spray foil with nonstick cooking spray. Place tortillas on baking sheet. Lightly spray tortillas with nonstick cooking spray. Using fork, pierce tortillas several times to prevent from filling with air.

Bake tortillas 5-6 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.

In medium nonstick saucepan over medium-high heat, cook turkey, chili powder, cumin and coriander 5-6 minutes, or until turkey is no longer pink, stirring occasionally to turn and break up turkey.

Add beans and water. Cook 5 minutes, or until beans are heated through. Using potato masher, coarsely mash beans. Remove from heat.

To assemble tostadas, spread turkey mixture over each tortilla. Top with salsa.

Nutritional information per serving: 260 cal­ories; 7.5 g total fat; 1 g saturated fat; 0 g trans fat; 1 g polyunsaturated fat; 4.5 g monounsaturated fat; 18 mg cholesterol; 60 mg sodium; 33 g carbohydrates; 8 g dietary fiber; 7 g sugars; 19 g protein.

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

41

PLAN AHEAD NOTE: Due to Covid 19, events are subject to cancellation or rescheduling. Please check with the venue’s website for updates.

WRITTEN & COMPILED BY CYNTHIA BROWN

Do you have an event that you’d like to include in our calendar?

Email your submissions to cynthia@ocalasgoodlife.com FARMERS MARKET—A wonderful selection of fresh seasonal produce from local growers as well as baked goods, plants, hand-made soaps, and much more! Every Thursday from 9am– 1pm. The Town Square at Circle Square Commons.

OCALA DOWNTOWN MARKET—Every Saturday rain or shine from 9am to 2pm shop from a variety of vendors including produce from local farmers, goat and dairy products, meats, honey, seafood, soaps and so much more. Downtown Ocala. SE 3rd St. and SE 3rd Ave.

REJUVENATE WITH THE ARTS—Second and fourth Tuesdays of the month.

Get crafty with these fun DIY workshops to renew and discover your artistic abilities! A new design every session! $5. 10am-12pm.

Eighth Avenue Adult Activity Center, 830 NE Eighth Ave. ocalafl.org/recpark or 3685517.

WEEKENDS AT THE WINERY—Come out and enjoy the expansive vineyard green, including delicious food from some of the area’s best live entertainment, food trucks, and of course your favorite Lakeridge wines by the glass at the outdoor bar.

Every Saturday and Sunday.

12-4pm. Lakeridge Winery. lakeridgewinery.com or 800-768-9463.

VOICEXPERIENCE January 20 Join Metropolitan Opera star Sherrill Milnes and soprano Maria Zouves as they present a concert that will bring back memories and make new ones. Free tickets available for pick up from the box office during normal business hours, two per household. 3pm.

Circle Square Cultural Center at On Top of the World. csculturalcenter.com or 854-3670.

FIRST FRIDAY ART WALK— Located in Downtown Ocala, the art walk takes place the first Friday of every month and is free to the public.

Festivities include over 30 art displays, live entertainment and performances, downtown shopping, and restaurants. ocalafl.org.

Jan. 1-Apr. 7

HOGGETOWNE MEDIEVAL FAIRE January 15-16, 22-23, 28-30 Watch and enjoy as King Arthur, Queen Guinevere and Merlin the Magician battle the forces of evil in a strategic living chess match, or test your own skills in games of chance, strength and skill. Watch and learn as artisans demonstrate their skills in blacksmithing, weaving, leatherworking, woodcarving, and pottery. $20. NEW LOCATION (see ad on next page). hoggetownefaire.com or 352-393-8536.

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OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

THERAPEUTIC PLEASE PASS THE PEAS COOKING CLASS—A hands-on opportunity to learn new skills and make new friends while preparing a meal. Participants will learn about nutrition, meal planning, budgeting and safe food handling. Classes are held the first Thursday of each month and participants must register one week in advance of each class. $5 per person. 4:15-5:30pm. Barbara G. Washington Adult Activity Center, 210 NW 12 Ave. ocalafl. org/recpark or 368-5517.

Jan. 8 & Feb. 5

FREE FIRST SATURDAY— Practice the art of staycation by visiting the Appleton on Free First Saturday, which means no admission fee to see our permanent collection and special exhibitions. You can also kick back and enjoy the beautiful outdoor spaces with large-scale sculpture perfect for selfies. Appleton Museum. appletonmuseum.org or 2914455.

January 8

GALLERY TOUR WITH JULIET VAN OTTEREN— Join photographer Juliet van Otteren for a tour of her solo exhibition “Heart of the Horse” featuring 40 striking black-and-white photographs of horses. Tours are free as part of Free First Saturday; no reservation needed to attend.

11am, 2pm. Appleton Museum. appletonmuseum.org or 291-4455.

THE LORDS OF 52ND STREET: LEGENDS OF BILLY JOEL—The Lords of 52nd Street finally returned to the stage to a sold-out crowd in 2016. Critics adored the band, and their performance blew away fans of all ages. Tickets from $30. 7pm. Circle Square Cultural Center at On Top of the World. csculturalcenter.com or 854-3670.

January 14

CLASSIC ALBUMS LIVE: THE WHO-WHO’S NEXT— Experience Classic Albums LIVE as they perform the music of the The Who – Who’s Next.

Note for note, cut for cut! $2055. 7:30pm. Reilly Arts Center. reillyartscenter.com or 351-1606.

January 14-16

FLY ON THE FORD—This three-day event will host a car show, music from the 50’s and 60’s, food trucks and fun.

Free admission to the event, flights start at $72. 8am- 5pm.

For more information visit flytheford.org.

January 15-16

FLORIDA MANATEE FESTIVAL—Spanning both sides of Citrus Avenue, the 2022 Florida Manatee Festival boasts live entertainment on multiple stages, 2 food courts, 2 beer-and-wine gardens, manatee boat tours, guided kayak tours, a fine art walk, craft vendors, a kids zone, and more! gomanateefest.com.

Jan. 15-16, 22-23, 28-30

HOGGETOWNE MEDIEVAL FAIRE—For three magical weekends, a medieval village comes alive during festival season for the 35th Annual Hoggetowne Medieval Faire.

The Faire showcases more than 160 talented artisans and craftspeople from all over the country, who arrive at Hoggetowne to display and sell a variety of goods. At the marketplace, visitors will find one-of-a-kind blacksmithing, jewelry, stone and wood carvings, weaving, hand-blown glassware, leather crafts, and period fashions. Master crafters will also show how they create their works of art. If walking through the market makes visitors hungry, they can head to the food court for a feast

fit for a king. Tasty blooming onions, giant turkey legs, freshbaked pastries, sweet potato fries and succulent ribs are just some of the foods available.

Young lords and ladies can also be seen munching giant turkey legs. $10-20. 9:30am-5pm.

Gainesville. hoggetownefaire. com or 352-393-8536.

January 16

THE POLICY—In the insurance industry, Mile Crenshaw is the master. His technique impeccable and his success legendary, but when his “sneaky, janky” ways prick the heart of his new bride and threatens the livelihood of his insurance agents, he meets his match! $23. 3pm. Reilly Arts Center. reillyartscenter.com or 351-1606.

THE POLICY PART TWO— Lavender Crenshaw struck it rich after she collects her $1 million accidental death insurance from “the policy” of her husband Miles. She thrives on her success becoming the new business owner of Lavender Crenshaw Insurance using Miles’ concept of $1,985 down, three months free. Life is good until revenge finds her. $23. 6pm. Reilly Arts Center. reillyartscenter.com or 351-1606.

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Jan. 20-Feb. 6

AROUND THE WORLD IN 80 DAYS—All aboard! A trip around the world in 80 days? In 1872? British explorer Phileas Fogg (Trafton Crandall) can’t resist a challenge, so when everyone bets against him, the fearless Fogg simply replies, “Hold my tea,” and takes the outrageous wager to do so. $30. Ocala Civic Theatre. ocalacivictheatre.com or 236-2274.

From packing to delivering and everything in between!

January 21

LEE ANN WOMACK—With six albums and international chart-topping singles to her credit, Lee Ann has earned six Country Music Association Awards (including Single and Album of the Year), five Academy of Country Music Awards, a Grammy, and much more. $30-75. 7:30pm. Reilly Arts Center. reillyartscenter.com or 351-1606.

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NOTE: Due to Covid 19, events are subject to cancellation or rescheduling. Please check with the venue’s website for updates. has been a tribute artist for 19 years—since the age of 4!

Deonath has traveled the world and made it to the Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest in Memphis three years in a row. Tickets from $15-100.

7pm. Circle Square Cultural Center at On Top of the World. csculturalcenter.com or 854-3670.

January 26

AN EVENING WITH LEO KOTTKE—Acoustic guitarist Leo Kottke was born in Athens, Georgia, but left town after a year and a half. Raised in 12 different states, he absorbed a variety of musical influences as a child, flirting with both violin and trombone, before abandoning Stravinsky for the guitar at age 11. Kottke has been awarded two Grammy nominations and a Doctorate in Music Performance. $2570. 7:30pm. Reilly Arts Center. reillyartscenter.com or 351-1606.

THE BRONX WANDERERS—With superlative vocals and

musicianship, dynamic enthusiasm, and a genuine love of the music they perform, The Bronx Wanderers recreate the magic of an era. Tickets from $35. 7pm. Circle Square Cultural Center at On Top of the World. csculturalcenter.com or 854-3670.

and Liszt’s “Piano Concerto No. 2” with special guest

January 28

January 27

WYNONNA JUDD— Wynonna’s rich and commanding voice has sold over 30 million albums worldwide spanning her remarkable 34-year career.

As one-half of the legendary mother/daughter duo The Judds, Wynonna was once dubbed by Rolling Stone as “the greatest female country singer since Patsy Cline.” This iconic performer has received over 60 industry awards, with countless charting singles, including 20 No.1 hits such as “Mama He’s Crazy,” “Why Not Me,” and “Grandpa, (Tell Me ‘Bout the Good Ole Days).” $25-95. 7:30pm. Reilly Arts Center. reillyartscenter.com or 351-1606.

ALTER EAGLES January 29 This Eagles tribute show is packed with energy, guitar techniques, and vocal harmonies that will please even the most critical Eagles fan. Don’t miss this incredible show where you’ll hear some of the Eagles’ greatest hits including “Hotel California,” “Lyin’ Eyes,” “Take it to the Limit,” and more! Tickets from $15. 7pm.

Circle Square Cultural Center at On Top of the World. csculturalcenter.com or 854-3670.

January 28

CHANGES IN LATITUDE February 4 Complete with a full tropical stage set-up of palm trees, surf-boards, tiki-totems, and a full-stage backdrop, you’ll believe that you’re at a Jimmy Buffett concert before the show begins. $20-45. 7:30pm.

Reilly Arts Center. reillyartscenter.com or 351-1606.

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OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

REILLY NOIR PRESENTS: JUAN ROLLAN–A LOVE SUPREME—“A sublime four-part suite that is as much a spiritual exploration as a musical masterpiece, “A Love Supreme” is perhaps one of the most influential and innovative works to emerge from the 1960s jazz scene. $150 VIP includes: 4 admission tickets, reserved table in a great location, first round of drinks, and table service for the evening. $20 general admission. 7:30pm. Black Box Theatre, Reilly Arts Center. reillyartscenter.com or 351-1606.

January 29-30

THE FOUR TEMPERAMENTS—Raymond Chobaz leads the orchestra through a psychological tour with Nielsen’s incredible “Symphony No. 2 – The Four Temperaments.” A new work

by Gainesville’s Paul Richards,

Kevin Sharpe will kick off the energetic program! $15-40.

7:30pm and 3pm. Reilly Arts Center. reillyartscenter.com or 351-1606.

February 4

ATLANTIC CITY BOYS— Enjoy an evening with four dynamic lead singers who have wowed audiences from coast to coast, while lending their world-class vocals to the hits of The Drifters, The Beach Boys, Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons. Tickets from $30.

7pm. Circle Square Cultural Center at On Top of the World. csculturalcenter.com or 854-3670.

February 4-6

GRANDVIEW INVITATIONAL—The pure power and excitement of this equine venture is one of the most crowd-pleasing horse events on the planet. There will be up to 32 one-ton draft

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DUCK DERBY February 12 The Rotary clubs of Marion County will race more than 5,000 rubber ducks on Lake Tuscawilla in Midtown Ocala. If “your” duck is one of the first three ducks to cross the finish line, you’ll win an amazing cash prize!

Duck sales will primarily benefit the Discovery Center. 10am-2pm. duckrace.com/ocala.

horses working together at a full trot within the show ring all together pulling worldclass hitch wagons. Gates open at 8am. Florida Horse Park, 11851 SW 16th Ave. grandviewinvitational.com.

February 5

ARTRAGEOUS: THE INTERACTIVE ART AND MUSIC EXPERIENCE—This troupe of 12 artists, singers, dancers, and musicians bring a high energy performance that combines fine art, live music, singing, dancing, humor, and interaction in a frenzy of movement and color. At the end of the performance, the entire audience is invited on stage to view the artworks that are created during the presentation and enjoy a unique view of the show, meet the troupe, and walk through a gallery of live art! $10-35. 3pm. Reilly Arts Center. reillyartscenter.com or 351-1606.

MAHARAJAH FLAMENCO TRIO—Their unique sound blends the flavors of Spain, Africa, the Middle East, the Caribbean, and more. They have performed nationwide from Gainesville to Harlem, on NPR and on television, and now at the Appleton. Enjoy two amazing sets with a short intermission, including music from their new album. 7pm, 9pm. Appleton Museum. appletonmuseum.org or 291-4455.

February 10

CLASSIC ALBUMS LIVE: THE BEATLES’ LET IT BE— Experience Classic Albums Live as they perform the music of The Beatles’ “Let It Be.” Note for note, cut for cut! $20-55.

7:30pm. Reilly Arts Center.

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reillyartscenter.com or 351-1606.

February 11

JIVE TALKIN’: TRIBUTE TO THE BEE GEES—Prepare to be amazed as the timeless repertoire of the Bee Gees is brought to life with such stunning authenticity and heartfelt sincerity that you will feel as if you are at a real Bee Gees concert. $20-50. 7:30pm. Reilly Arts Center. reillyartscenter. com or 3 51-1606.

February 11-12

true, technically stunning, and explosive live concert show that performs the music of Paul McCartney spanning two decades from The Beatles to Wings. Songs include hits “Hey Jude,” “Jet,” “Let It Be,” “Band on the Run,” “The Long and Winding Road,” “Live and Let Die,” “Lady Madonna,” and many more. Tickets from $28.

7pm. Circle Square Cultural Center at On Top of the World. csculturalcenter.com or 854-3670.

CATTLE DRIVE AND COWBOY ROUNDUP—Follow the cattle from downtown Ocala to Tuscawilla Park where the festivities begin. Live entertainment, kid’s corral, authentic vendors, Cowboy Tom, vittles, beer, waterin’ hole and more! Tuscawilla Park. 10am-2pm. ocalafl.org/ recpark or 368-5517.

February 18

REILLY NOIR PRESENTS: THE MAHARAJAH FLAMENCO TRIO—A moving and dynamic expression of Flamenco Nuevo that blends traditional Spanish rhythms with jazz, classical, and world music. $150 VIP includes: 4 admission tickets, reserved table in a great location, first round of drinks, and table service for the evening. $20 General admission. 7:30pm. Black Box Theatre, Reilly Arts Center. reillyartscenter.com or 351-1606.

SAIL ON: THE BEACH BOYS TRIBUTE—The timeless songs of surfing,

GRANDVIEW WORLD NIGHTS—If you like to be entertained with elegance, the Grandview World Nights evening event incorporates the majestic elegance and power of Clydesdales, Belgians, and Percheron horse breeds.

This evening is designed to entertain and captivate you by merging the gentle giants’ brawn synchronized to tremendous, heartpounding instrumental music.

World Equestrian Center. grandviewworldnights.com.

February 12

LOS LOBOS—Its music embodies the idea of America as a cultural melting pot, where styles like son jarocho, norteño, Tejano, folk, country, doo-wop, soul, R&B, rock ’n’ roll, and punk all come together to create a new sound that’s greater than the sum of its parts. $30-75.

7:30pm. Reilly Arts Center. reillyartscenter.com or 351-1606.

THE MCCARTNEY YEARS: THE WORLD’S #1 PAUL MCCARTNEY TRIBUTE EXPERIENCE—A period-

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

ALMOST ABBA: THE #1 TRIBUTE TO ABBA February 26 Recreates the magic and nostalgia of ABBA in a costumed, choreographed and interactive audience experience. Formed in 1996, they are the longest running North American Tribute to the Swedish super group and have toured 11 countries. $18-40. 7:30pm.

Reilly Arts Center. reillyartscenter.com or 351-1606.

cruising, dancing, and dreaming are brought to life for all ages.

Sing, clap, and move along to the irresistible beats and unforgettable tunes or sit back and drift along on the sunny harmonies. Tickets from $27.

7pm. Circle Square Cultural Center at On Top of the World. csculturalcenter.com or 854-3670.

February 19-20

90 YEARS OF JOHN WILLIAMS—Join the Ocala Symphony Orchestra in celebrating John Williams’ 90th birthday with a review of his extensive film catalog including scores from “Star Wars,” “Harry Potter,” “Schindler’s List,” “Jurassic Park,” “Indiana Jones,” “E.T., “Jaws,” “Superman,” and more! $15-40.

7:30pm and 3pm. Reilly Arts Center. reillyartscenter.com or 351-1606.

SILVER RIVER KNAP-IN AND PREHISTORIC ARTS FESTIVAL—Artisans from across the country attend this unique event to demonstrate making stone tools, pottery, traditional bows and arrows, hide tanning, shell carving, fire-making and more.

Hands-on activities include archery, tomahawk, and spearthrowing ranges. $8. 9am4pm. Silver River Museum. silverrivermuseum.com or 236-5401.

EXPERIENCE PSYCHIC FAIR—Get a reading from some of the areas most respected psychics and spiritual mediums.

Visit spiritual healers and get a full-color aura photo. Shop in the metaphysical marketplace for unique gift items, crystals and gemstones, and lots of metaphysical items. Sit in on the free lectures offered throughout the weekend.

Admission is only $10 with a free gemstone and lectures.

Cash is appreciated at the door.

Exhibitors accept credit cards.

Plenty of free parking. Children 12 and under are free. Saturday 11am-6pm, and Sunday 10am-5pm. Ocala Shrine Club. experiencepsychicfair.com.

February 25

10,000 MANIACS—The band has covered plenty of ground in its 35-plus years, from cult-herodom to international stardom, to their current status as a cornerstone

alternative band. But the sound and spirit of 10,000 Maniacs remains consistent. The live shows embrace their entire catalogue, and the lineup is still anchored by four of the six original members. $25-70.

7:30pm. Reilly Arts Center. reillyartscenter.com or 351-1606.

WE CARE FOR YOUR LIFE'S MOMENTS.

DOUG GABRIEL SHOW— The Doug Gabriel Show is clean family entertainment at its best and is always rated in the top 3 shows to see in Branson. Tickets from $30. 7pm. Circle Square Cultural Center at On Top of the World. csculturalcenter.com or 854-3670.

BOURBON IN THE BARN— Enjoy bourbon tasting, delicious food stations, beer and wine, live music, silent and live auctions at the beautiful Vintage Farm to benefit the Boys & Girls Club of Marion County. VIP opening reception at 6pm. Advance tickets required. General Admission $100, VIP Admission $150. Contact asavarese@ bgcofmarion.com or call 6907545 for more information.

Feb. 25-Mar. 5

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SOUTHEASTERN YOUTH FAIR—The premier not-forprofit all-youth fair for 4-H and FFA students. Southeastern Livestock Pavilion. seyfair.com

Changing People’s Lives For Over 30 Years

February 26

ALMOST ABBA: THE #1 TRIBUTE TO ABBA— Recreates the magic and nostalgia of ABBA in a costumed, choreographed and interactive audience experience. Formed in 1996, they are the longest running North American Tribute to the Swedish super group and have toured 11 countries. $18-40.

7:30pm. Reilly Arts Center. reillyartscenter.com or 351-1606.

WIND-FM JADED: AEROSMITH TRIBUTE— They’ve got the looks, moves, and sound of Aerosmith! Jaded covers all the greatest songs of Aerosmith—nearly half a century of the best rock— including “Walk this Way,” “Back in the Saddle,” “Livin’ on the Edge,” and “Angel.” Tickets from $15. 7pm. Circle Square Cultural Center at On Top of the World. csculturalcenter.com or 8543670.

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

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OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

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February 23rd @ 6:30 PM Heart Health—The Truth About Cholesterol

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