Mar/Apr 2020

OCALA’S

GOOD LIFE

SERVIN

TM

The New Downtown PLUS—

Tony’s Sushi

Volcano onions and flipping knives? Count me in!

See what you’ve been missing if you haven’t visited the heart of Ocala lately!

Margaret Watts

The heavenly paintings of one of Ocala’s most talented artists.

79 Hours

Can Ocala Civic Theatre break a world record?

INSIDE: Cattle Drive & Cowboy Roundup | Duck Derby | Cuisine Queen

MAR/APR 2020

Retirement Redefined

G On Top Of T he World, Th e Villages, Oa k Run, Ston e Creek, Spru ce Creek, an d all of Ocala’s Retirement Communitie s!

Keep On Going

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Our team of highly experienced and trained doctors and technicians provides the latest state-of-the-art procedures designed to support and restore health, enhance comfort and improve quality of life: ROLANDO E. PRIETO, MD, Medical Director of CVH DAVID C. MCKAY, MD JAIME L. ABESADA, MD CALEB R. RIVERA, MD RAY SUTKOWSKI, MD KAREEM I. BOHSALI, MD PHIL BERARDI, PA JOHN S. SCALES, MD EDWARD R. TODD, PA

It’s your life. Live it to its fullest, with help from CVH.

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Fromthe themoment moment aa stroke stroke happens, happens, time time is is From critical.The Thespeed speedofofemergency emergency care care can can mean mean critical. thedifference differencebetween between complete complete recovery recovery and and the permanentdisability. disability. permanent

OcalaRegional Regional Medical Medical Center Center isis aa certified certified Ocala comprehensive stroke center equipped with comprehensive stroke center equipped with advanced minimally invasive neurointervention advanced minimally invasive neurointervention technology. This gives our physicians the power technology. This gives our physicians the power to halt and reverse an acute stroke in a timely to halt and reverse an acute stroke in a timely fashion. fashion.

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At At Ocala Ocala Health Health we we believe believe aa stroke strokedoesn’t doesn’t have have to to be be aa life-changing life-changingevent. event.That’s That’swhy whywe we continually continually explore explorenew newpathways pathwaystotoensure ensurethe the health health of of our our community. community.

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Ocala’s

GOOD LIFE

TM

TM

MAR/APR 2020

departments

features

8

Good Team

20

‘A Really Cool & Ambitious Idea’

10

The Editor’s Desk

BY RICHARD ANGUIANO

26

An Inspired Artist

BY CLAUDIA O’BRIEN

12

16

18

22

24

38

44

48

49

54

64

The talented staff behind Ocala’s Good Life.

Going downtown. By Dean Blinkhorn

Good Start

Quick looks at our community. By Dean Blinkhorn

Out & About

A cattle drive through Ocala? Sure! By Steve Floethe

Just My Type

Blending families, part two. By Mary Ellen Barchi

My Florida

An orange blossom special. By Melody Murphy

Out & About

A duck derby downtown. By Steve Floethe

Out & About

Golfing for a good cause. By Steve Floethe

Good Eats

Revisiting Tony’s. By Rick Allen

Cuisine Queen

All the latest restaurant news. By Paula DiPaula

Dining Guide

Highlights of some of the area’s best restaurants.

Plan Ahead

Local painter Margaret Watts’ larger-than-life gallery—68 pieces in all—surely must inspire the congregants of the equally larger-than-life Queen of Peace Catholic Church on SR 200 on a typical Sunday.

But her paintings are also remarkable for their timeless stories from the Bible and for the memories they evoke from the artist who created such lovely works.

on the cover

30

A Downtown Reborn

BY DEAN BLINKHORN • COVER PHOTO BY JOHN JERNIGAN

Lots of reasons to get out of your easy chair. What are you waiting for?

Puzzle Page

Spend a few minutes with the crossword or Sudoku.

Ocala Civic Theatre’s 70th anniversary season is shaping up to be one for the record book. Literally. As in Guinness.

Our downtown has a wide mix of entertainment and restaurant options—blended with a diverse set of arts venues—that are all local. The city has invested millions to ensure that Downtown Ocala is welcoming, well-lit, and has easier-thanever access to parking. When was the last time you visited the heart of our town?

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

5

“Rio”

Ocala’s

GOOD LIFE

TM

MAGAZINE

ocalasgoodlife.com MAR/APR 2020

FREE Lunch & Learn at

Publisher/Art Director Trevor Byrne

trevor@ocalasgoodlife.com

Publisher/Editor

A plain talking, informal get together, helping to answer all of your end of life questions and concerns. It costs you nothing and allows every attendee the opportunity to get all their questions out on the table (after lunch of course).

Dean Blinkhorn

dean@ocalasgoodlife.com

At 11:30am on these dates:

Project Manager

Mar 16, Mar 30, Apr 6, Apr 20

cynthia@ocalasgoodlife.com

Cynthia Brown

Seating is limited call 352-537-8111 to RSVP

Writers

Rick Allen, Richard Anguiano, Mary Ellen Saladino, James Blevins, Amanda Clark-Rudolph, Paula DiPaula, Melody Murphy, Claudi O’Brien

Photographers Steve Floethe John Jernigan

Graphic Designer

Introducing GRACIE, our grief therapy dog-in-training

FREE Chapel

Wayne Smith

Proofreaders Karen Bradley Sally Tinkham

Advertising Sales Carol DeWitt

Memorial Service

*

(302) 377-9142 carol@ocalasgoodlife.com

Kaye Schultz

(352) 427-4005 kaye@ocalasgoodlife.com

Offer available only at our downtown chapel.

$250 OFF

Cremation Services*

Sally Tinkham

(352) 427-4006 sally@ocalasgoodlife.com

Distribution

Jammie Crawford • Heidi Justice PA R T N E R : OCALA / MARION COUNTY

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6

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

OCALA / MARION COUNTY

CHAMBER & ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIP

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Sales career opportunities available.

Published bi-monthly by Good Life Publishing Inc. ocalasgoodlife.com • (877) 622-5210 GREYSCALE LOGOS

*Offers above are based on select pre-arrangement packages and are not retroactive to previous purchases. Beneficiary must be present with coupon/ ad at time of purchase. Limited time offer.

FORWARD ©2020 Good Life Publishing Inc. All rightsMOVING reserved.

No part may be reFORWARDfrom the publisher. printed in whole or in part without writtenMOVING permission MOVING FORWARD Unsolicited material will not be returned. Publisher is not responsible for MOVING FORWARD advertisers’ claims or content of advertisements.

FONTS

(352) 537-8111

CHAMBER & ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIP

OCALA / MARION COUNTY

CHAMBER & ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIP OCALA / MARION COUNTY

CHAMBER & ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIP

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32

a good team

staff & contributors 8

4

6

2

1

5

7

3 13

11

9

14 10 12 15

When Paula DiPaula is not visiting new 1 restaurants in the area, she’s working off those calories with kayaking, boating, camping and exploring trails in her Jeep. Born in 1958, she fits right in with Ocala’s Good Life magazine’s demographics, showing our readers that she’s more of a seen-ager than a senior. She’s also the proud mom of an adventurous and beautiful daughter, a high school teacher. Paula believes that keeping active, positive and having an open mind leads to longevity.

and photography at his website, smithandfritzy.com.

shooting for various magazines and commercial clients all over the country.

ington, Delaware. They have many community interests and are always out and about trying every new restaurant and learning all about Florida. Carol brings her long career experiences in many areas of marketing and media to Ocala’s Good Life.

Island. She loves her 5 cat-kids and hiking with her grandchildren on the local trails.

She is researching the history and families of Gaiter, an early southwest Marion County community, for a potential book. She’s also an avid fan of Cote, the Elvis tribute artist, as seen in this photo!

by the time you read this. Five of her six cats will not be joining her on this move, but they are now happily patrolling for mice at Grand View Clydesdale horse farm.

ences and the good life around Ocala, peppered with her quirky sense of humor. But life happens, and Mary Ellen has entered a new chapter as she looks forward to happier adventures in the future.

they brought their dogs and decorated a stroller with colorful grass skirts and Hawaiian leis. The plan was for Benson, the Australian Shepherd mix, to walk while Coco, the aging Pekingese, rode in the stroller. But Benson decided he didn’t like all the chaos and noise that comes with a parade, and proceeded to snap at any dog (or human) who came near.

So Benson ended up sharing the stroller with Coco and the parade was a success!

sheet queen.” She and her husband, Larry, have two crazy boys, a 100-pound Bulldog, and a cricket-eating Bearded Dragon. The whole family loves spending time in the water.

Carol DeWitt is living happily ever Sally Tinkham and her husband, Alan, 6 after in On Top of the World with her 11 have lived in Dunnellon more than 35 husband Bruce, having relocated from Wilm- years after living in Connecticut and Rhode

Dean Blinkhorn is a past Florida MagaKaye Schultz has been working in the 2 zine Association Editor of the Year who 7 publishing business for over 23 years.

Mary Ellen is a native New Yorker loves publishing. When he’s not working on She recently bought a new home that she is 12 residing in Ocala since 1990. As a Ocala’s Good Life or the CEP annual direcremodeling and has (hopefully) moved into columnist, she writes from personal experitory, he’s probably catching up with his favorite subscriptions. Rolling Stone, Bicycling, Classic Rock, and Reader’s Digest are on his monthly must-read list because of the great storytelling. When the weather’s nice, he may even go outside for a long bike ride.

Steve Floethe has been Ocala’s Good 3 Life’s photographer/writer since it was first launched in 2010. In addition he is a

freelance videographer, covering breaking news and feature stories in Marion County for Orlando’s TV stations. Before semi-retiring to Ocala, Steve had a long and varied career in broadcast and print journalism — from newspaper, radio, and cable news to TV as a reporter/photographer, news producer, nightly news anchor and TV news director.

4

James Blevins is a recipient of the Louis Chazal Journalism Award from the College of Central Florida. When he isn’t writing freelance feature stories, James is writing poetry. For James, writing is life—a good life, you might say—and he’s happy to do it for as long as there’s hot coffee to drink.

Last month, Trevor Byrne and his wife 8 Dawn towed their little teardrop camper Cynthia Brown has 20 years of local to St. George Island in the Florida panhandle. 13 publishing experience and is a self-deKnowing that a dog parade was planned, scribed “organizational nerd” and “spread-

Native Floridian Melody Murphy has a 9 Bachelor’s in journalism from UF and is the marketing assistant at Ocala Civic The-

atre, where she also performs. She owns 13 kinds of hot sauce.

Wayne Smith is a designer and illustra- 10 5 tor from Ocala. He spent some time urban sketching with ink and watercolor this past summer in Tokyo and near Mount Fuji.

You can catch up on his travels, illustration

8

As a child John Jernigan would often be found drawing and coloring with leftover prisma color pencils and supplies from his father’s photography studio and art supply store. It was only a natural progression to photography. Today, John stays busy

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

Rick Allen spent the final 16 years 14 of a 45-year journalism career as an award-winning feature writer while also covering the Marion County culinary landscape as dining editor for the Ocala Star-Banner.

Currently he’s just mostly retired.

Amanda Clark-Rudolph ventured 15 from Vermont to Ocala with her husband to start a family and teach English. Af-

ter having her second son, Amanda left the classroom to work at home and pursue freelance writing for local and worldwide publications. She’s excited to bring her passion for interviewing and sharing other people’s stories to Ocala’s Good Life.

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www.OcalaFlooring.com OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

9

the editor’s desk Have You Been Downtown Lately? by dean blinkhorn [dean@ocalasgoodlife.com]

T

his issue’s cover story was a monster to compile. We held a series of editorial meetings to go over the photo assignment list and came up with more than 40 separate locations that might interest our readers. Clearly, Ocala’s downtown rebirth is more than underway.

We had the proof!

As a local magazine editor for more than 20 years, we’ve been talking about, photographing, and featuring its renaissance for just as long, often with mixed results. It seems like it took forever for Ocala to finally decide to tear down the old chamber building, build a parking garage, move the farmers market to a permanent space with ample shade, decide which direction the streets were going to go, and get serious about any real development north of the square.

Well, here we are in 2020 and I feel like we can’t keep up with the pace of all the activity—and I’m writing this before the centerpiece downtown hotel makes its debut! When you factor in the soon-to-come housing options, all the buzz around Tuscawilla Park, and gentrification of the “other” historic district on the north side of the square, there’s lots more happening than what you can see on a short stroll around the gazebo to the iconic Harry’s.

The feature in this issue is super-sized specifically to point you towards some places you may not have considered before. I know because my family does it all the time.

Whenever we’re looking for something to do downtown these days, we have to seriously consider our options because there are so many. Dining? How about La Cuisine, Ivy on the Square, Feta, Sayulita, Big Hammock, Mark’s, or Pi? Inside dining or al fresco? Fancy or informal? Some nights, I feel like we should just draw names out of a hat.

All this choice is good for downtown and Ocala, though. These are the places no one else has. These are the things that make us unique. And these are the places we want you to love, too. I hope the pages to come will make that love affair take flight. Please tell us about your new— and old—downtown favorites!

There’s lots more happening than what you can see on a short stroll around the gazebo.

SPEAKING OF UNIQUE, Ocala’s Good Life is proud to lend a small hand of support to the Ocala Culinary Festival along with event sponsor Ocala Style magazine. OCF has been

10

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

wonderfully curated by their publisher, Jennifer Murty, and this year’s lineup looks particularly amazing!

Just trying to narrow down the diverse lineup to find a couple of events to sample was challenging, to say the least. A night in Argentina, a grilling clinic with two local masters, or a feast on a nearby farm under the stars? Choices, choices...

We ended up planning to attend the “Flavors of Florida” extravaganza at the beautifully renovated Circle Square Cultural Center and the Grand Tasting, the opulent culmination of all the previous food parties. We’ll probably need to fast for a week prior—and after—to not need a new wardrobe!

So you want proof that Ocala has “grown up?” Just look around. It’s in our signature events and in our vibrant downtown. All you need to do is point your car to the heart of the city with an open mind.

All the best,

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

What’s Dean Playing?

Patsy Cline, “The Definitive Collection”—OGL columnist Melody Murphy’s starring role in the recent OCT production has given me a serious Patsy Cline obsession. All the wonderfully produced Decca classics are here, but I may need more soon!

Miranda Lambert, “Wildcard”—The sassy country singer’s latest is an A-list set of barn burners like the hilarious “White Trash” and the tender “Bluebird.”

Steve Miller Band, “Welcome To The Vault”—All the songs you know from decades of radio airplay and lots of great alternate takes of classics like “Jet Airliner” and “Take The Money And Run.”

UPCOMING PROGRAMS ART IN CITY SPACES: MARION COUNTY RICH WITH WILDLIFE

“RALPH BREAKS THE INTERNET” [PG] April 10 • 8:15 p.m. • Jervey Gantt Recreation Complex • 2200 SE 36 Ave.

BY HOLLY YOCUM Eighth Avenue Adult Activity Center HEALTH AND WELLNESS SERIES 830 NE Eighth Ave. Eighth Avenue Adult Activity Center Ocala Recreation and Parks Administration 830 NE Eighth Ave. 828 NE Eighth Ave. Mondays-Fridays • Now-April 20 • 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Thursdays • 9-11 a.m.

March 19 - Blood Pressure Screenings April 16 - Senior Vaccination Awareness and FIRST FRIDAY ART WALK Pneumonia Shots Historic downtown Ocala, May 21 - Summer Heat Awareness Fridays: March 6, April 3, May 1 • 6-9 p.m.

Enjoy an evening of art, live performances, art Are you ready to take your health by storm?

Come to our new speed learning and interacactivities and downtown shops and restautive health sessions sponsored by Walgreens. rants. Pick up your map on the square and Register one week prior to program. take a self-guided tour of local artists.

PARADE OF SENIOR SERVICES

College of Central Florida • 3003 SW College Rd. Friday • March 20 • 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Over 50 agencies have partnered to provide literature and answer your questions about recreation, city, county, state and federal government services, health care, social services and more to to seniors in Marion County.

DISCOVERY DATE NIGHT

Discovery Center • 701 NE Sanchez Avenue Friday • April 24 • 6:30-9 p.m.

Explore our exhibit which features Astronaut Academy. Enjoy space themed fun and a planetarium show! Wine, snacks and free play in the exhibit. Ages 18+. $15/person.

EARTHFEST CELEBRATE ARBOR DAY

Tuscawilla Park 800 NE Sanchez Ave. Saturday • April 25 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

Explore the great outdoors at Earthfest! Fun for the whole family, kids can try out tree rappelling, participate in the youth fishing derby, feed live butterflies and climb the rock wall! Gain a hands-on learning experience meeting local and regional organizations that promote conservation and sustainability. Enjoy live music, food trucks and craft vendors lakeside in beautiful Tuscawilla Park!

SENIOR FISHING DERBY

Tuscawilla Park • 800 NE Sanchez Ave. Monday • April 27 • 9 a.m.-Noon Hook up with us for a few hours of fishing FUN at Lake Tuscawilla. Dress comfortably, bring your sunscreen and fishing poles. We will provide lunch, prizes and bait. Transportation is NOT included. Ages 50+.

OFF YOUR ROCKERS SENIOR SOCIAL Eighth Avenue Adult Activity Center 830 NE Eighth Ave. Thursdays • 1-3 p.m.

March 12 - Do the twist in your 50s attire April 9 - The “SENIOR” Prom May 14 - Spring Fling Come dressed to impress and dance the afternoon away while enjoying good music and meeting new friends at our new themed Off Your Rockers Senior Social sponsored by Humana. BINGO players will receive a free king or queen pass to BINGO in March if you attend the February dance. $3/person.

AFTER DARK IN THE PARK MOVIE SERIES

Fridays The movies are FREE and refreshments will be available for a small fee. Remember to bring your lawn chairs and blankets!

“AVENGERS: ENDGAME” [PG-13] March 13 • 8 p.m. • Tuscawilla Park 800 NE Sanchez Ave.

SMARTPHONE 101

Barbara Gaskin Washington Adult Activity Center • 210 NW 12 Ave. Thursdays: April 2-May 7 • 10-11 a.m.

This six-part series was developed to help the community learn the basics of any smart device. Register one week before program starts. Bring your own smart device.

Week 1: Introduction and Basic Apple Review. Week 2: Introduction and Basic Android Review. Week 3: Voice Mail and Talk-to-text. Week 4: Social Media and App Download. Week 5: Online safety and fraud protection. Week 6: Review.

For more information call 352-368-5517 • www.ocalafl.org/recpark

good start

Written & Compiled By Dean Blinkhorn

GOOD NEWS:

‘2020 Is Going To Be A Big Year For Us’

E GOOD NEWS:

First Saturdays At The Appleton Are Now Completely Free!

F

irst Saturdays have always been free for children, and beginning in March every visitor will receive free entry on the first Saturday of the month. The Appleton welcomes you to take advantage of this opportunity to see the ever-changing permanent collection galleries, as well as the special exhibitions on loan from artists and other museums.

“The College of Central Florida’s Appleton Museum of Art is Ocala and Marion County’s arts gem,” says Appleton Director Jason Steuber. “Free First Saturdays continue the generous vision of the Appleton family that started over 30 years ago in partnership with Ocala civic leaders.”

WANT TO GO? Free First Saturdays, 10am-5pm appletonmuseum.org 291-4455

ddie Leedy, the new Executive Director at the Humane Society, talks about taking over the reins of this popular organization.

“I am a Marion County native and, after 34 years of service with the Marion County Sheriff ’s Office, a retired law enforcement officer. I’m married to my soul mate, Tamie, and we have three children and five grandchildren. It is my honor and privilege to work with so many amazing people who have one common goal: the animals. I look forward each and every day to seeing the progress of our specialneeds furbabies.

“Looking to the future, 2020 is going to be a big year for us. Plans are in the works to build a new intake area, as well as a clinic at the shelter. We also plan to begin much-needed repairs at the thrift store.

We are teaming up with MADTA (Marion Alachua Dog Training Association) enrolling four of our canines into a formal seven-week training program. This will help some of our at-risk canines to find their forever homes.

“I would like to thank everyone for ‘welcoming me to the pack’ and for all the support.”

1959: That’s How Much Things Cost Back Then?

A New House

$12,400

A Gallon Of Gas

25 cents

A New Car Loaf Of Bread A Movie Ticket Sources: infoplease.com, encyclopedia.com, about.com

12

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

$2,200 20 cents $1

WORD-A-RAMA:

If you love words like we do, a visit to wordspy.com will make your day.

Some of the newly added words are ones you may have heard before, but it’s such a fluid site, chances are you’ll discover some brand new ones. Here’s a sampling of some recent noun additions to the site:

flunami—an overwhelming number of flu cases in the same area at the same time

aflockalypse—the sudden death of a large number of birds

nanobreak—a brief vacation,

PET OF THE MONTH:

especially one that includes just one night away from home Velcro dog—a dog that sticks close to its owner hevage—a man’s chest, especially when revealed by an unbuttoned shirt data exhaust—the digitally trackable or storable actions, choices, and preferences that people generate as they go about their daily lives flash crash—an extremely rapid decline in the stock market busy brain—a mental state that includes racing thoughts, anxiety, lack of focus, and sleeplessness

Who: Misty is a 12-year-old female Aussie, who’s a bit overweight at 40 pounds. She isn’t expected to stick around the SPCA for very long!

What: SPCA started as a club at On Top of the World in 1999 and transformed over the years into a service organization. Many of its members live in OTOW and the surrounding communities. They receive pets often when the owner goes into assisted living, hospice, or gets too sick to care for them. They stay in “foster care” until someone adopts them.

Illustration by Trevor Byrne

More Info: spcaofmarioncounty. weebly.com or 671-6797

GOOD CONTEST:

The Best Cheesecake?

Senior Health Advisors recently held a “battle” in the Advent Health cafeteria to see which local team, comprised of local skilled nursing facilities, home health companies and support services, would come out with the best-tasting cheesecake, as voted by a panel of celebrity judges as well as in a “People’s Choice” category. So who won? Avante Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation took the judges trophy and Kindred Hospice took the popular vote. In all, $1,900 was raised for the American Heart Association. Not too “cheesy” after all!

WANT TO HELP? To learn more about the Senior Health Advisors or how to contribute to the American Heart Association, please contact Kerry Eck at 644-3834.

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

13

good start BOOK NOOK:

Check Out These Titles

By Local Authors GOOD NEIGHBORS:

‘I Am Honored’

West Marion Community Hospital Appoints Gabe Bullaro As Chief Executive Officer LINDA CALDWELL

ERIC FLOYD

RON COOPER

Dr. Gorrie’s statue represents Florida in the U. S. Capitol Statuary Hall. He invented the first ice machine and the first mechanical air conditioning system.

He’s a Florida hero.

The plot involves a race that features thoroughbred racing’s first 11 Triple Crown Champions. The profits of the book are being donated to Second Chances Farm.

The story of Blevins Bombardi, a former academic turned deputy sheriff, who tries to solve a freakish murder in a Florida national forest.

She lives in Dunnellon and enjoys camping and spending time with her grandchildren.

65

14

He is a turf writer for various gaming publications and has contributed to several nationwide thoroughbred horse racing broadcasts.

The age that Harlan David “Colonel” Sanders founded Kentucky Fried Chicken.

Source: movesforseniors.com

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

He is a published author and senior professor of philosophy and humanities at the College of Central Florida.

O

cala Health, an affiliate of HCA Healthcare, recently announced the appointment of Gabe Bullaro to the position of CEO at West Marion Community Hospital.

Bullaro has most recently served as COO at Ocala Health, a 430-bed, twocampus facility. During Gabe’s time at Ocala Health, he has led the aggressive construction efforts happening across the Ocala Health campuses, adding 114 beds, 20 ED bays, six operating rooms, expanding the Summerfield Freestanding Emergency Department by eight bays, as well as the construction and opening of the Maricamp Freestanding Emergency Department in August of 2019.

“Gabe’s familiarity with West Marion, established relationships with physicians in the community, and excitement related to the expansion of healthcare services offered in this community has West Marion well positioned for continued growth under his leadership,” says Chad Christianson, CEO of Ocala Health.

“I am honored to have been selected to lead such an outstanding team,” says Bullaro. “After having worked with West Marion for over two years, I’m confident that the team is top-notch. They drive exceptional quality care and consistently offer an outstanding patient experience.”

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

15

OUT & ABOUT

Bembenek 5 Bob & Arleen Ward, Larry & Julie

5 Carla Lord and Nicholas Ch

ristakos

Cattle Drive and Cowboy Round-Up

5 Brenda & Kevin Haines and Jake

Hundreds of people braved some chilly mid-morning weather in February to witness the annual Cattle Drive and Cowboy Round-Up hoofing it up in downtown Ocala and then on to Tuscawilla Park. Cowboys on horseback along with circling cattle dogs tightly contained the 24 steers as they made their way up the street. Their arrival at the park kicked off a four-hour music festival that was capped off by the Marion Rotary Duck Derby.

5 Ann & Ron Scott

Photos By Steve Floethe

4 Heather Yeloushan and Willie

5 Dawn & Joe Bavuso

16

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

3 Rhonda & Tim Benitez

5 Sue Loveless, John & Betty Pieper, Glenn Loveless

Welcome to a new era in health care.

UF Health and Central Florida Health are joining forces. We’re excited to welcome UF Health Leesburg Hospital and UF Health The VillagesŽ Hospital to the UF Health family. With enhanced access to the latest medical breakthroughs, expanded treatment options, clinical trials and more, the future of health care is happening here. UFHealth.org

just my t y pe

by Mary Ellen [maryellen@ocalasgoodlife.com]

Blending: The Sequel

I

f you read the first installment of my column in the January/February issue, I recounted the long and frustrating task of cleaning out my house.

I continue now with the actual blending of two homes in preparation of my impending marriage.

Although my house is now clear of unwanted clutter, I discovered, like my late husband, that there are still things I just can’t part with.

I found that items, such as dishes and cutlery presented the biggest problem. Between my fiancée and I, we had eight sets of dishes and four sets of utensils.

For example, we had everyday dishes, Christmas dishes, a set for Sunday dinner, colorful Fiestaware, a 12-piece place setting of vintage china that cannot go in the dishwasher or microwave, and the more current china that is dishwasher safe. Even the First Lady gets to order only one set of good china during the President’s administration.

Which makes me wonder, since a first lady can order a set of china, what would the First Gentleman be entitled to if we ever have a female president?

Maybe an armored ride-on lawnmower called “Mower One?” Or a golf cart designed as a miniature presidential limousine with all the bells and whistles known as “Par One” or “The Ace?” How about a limited-edition monogrammed set of power tools or a one-of-a-kind, high-tech gas grill with the presidential seal on it dubbed “Gas

All we really have is now.

Yesterday is gone and tomorrow is promised to no one.

18

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

Grill One?” Just a thought, but I digress.

The real question is, did we need eight sets of dishes? Probably not, and we have reduced our dish set count to five for now. The cutlery has dwindled to three sets. I’m still on the fence over keeping the silver-plate service for 12 that must be polished.

Although my fiancée and I picked out new furniture, some pieces from my house will find a place in our future home. The good thing is we seem to have the same taste and have had no problem deciding what will go and what will stay.

Christmas decoration overload was an unexpected challenge. Our combined supply of holiday trimmings consisted of three full-size artificial trees and enough lights, figurines, baubles, and balls to illuminate Rockefeller Center in New York. It was clearly time to let some of it go, so Hospice has gratefully accepted most of my ornament collection. It pleases me to know they will grace another family’s Christmas tree in years to come.

Then there are photographs. Both of us literally had hundreds. These, we agreed, are from our previous lives. My fiancée is also widowed, and these photos represent dear, bittersweet memories of our happy marriages that we will never forget and always cherish. So although we may not display them in our new home, they will be kept and physically put away, but will remain forever in our hearts.

Although consuming the elephant one bite at a time may be a tedious and arduous task, it is not an impossible one and the rewards are great when complete. And as some of you begin again and build a new home and life, remember that all we really have is now. Yesterday is gone and tomorrow is promised to no one. Now is the time to create new and precious memories together with loved ones, family, and friends.

Bucket List Time

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OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

19

GOOD NEIGHBORS:

Katrina Ploof

‘A Really Cool & Ambitious Idea’ Ocala Civic Theatre’s 70th anniversary season is shaping up to be one for the record book. Literally. As in Guinness.

BY RICHARD ANGUIANO • PHOTO BY STEVE FLOETHE

T

o mark seven decades of serving fans of the dramatic arts in Marion County, the Ocala Civic Theatre is planning an attempt at the Guinness World Record for “longest marathon theater performance” with a nonstop string of performances to begin at 7pm Sunday, March 29, and end at noon, Thursday, April 2.

If successful, the feat would span 79 hours and break the current record established by Lamb’s Players Theatre of Coronado, California, in May 2014.

The Guinness World Records website—guinnessworldrecords.com—lists

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the mark to beat at 76 hours 18 minutes and 25 seconds.

And if you’ve always aspired to be part of a world record, here’s your chance: Ocala Civic Theatre is seeking help from the public for the attempt, which it has dubbed “79 For 70.”

While OCT is in the process of selecting 20 actors scheduled to perform in shifts during the marathon, it also needs witnesses, timers, audience members, even volunteers to prepare (or pay for) meals for all involved.

Can’t be there to take part? You can still sponsor an audience member

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

for “79 For 70,” which will also serve as a fundraiser.

“There isn’t anything we couldn’t use you for,” says Katrina Ploof, artistic director of OCT. KATRINA SAID LARRY KIERNAN, the theater’s marketing director, came to her with the “fantastic idea” for the record attempt.

“I sat there for about 10 seconds and I couldn’t come up with a reason not to, other than, ‘Boy, that’s going to be a lot of work,’” remembers Katrina.

“But we’re a theater. Working hard is

what we do.”

Larry offers a brief explanation.

“Seventy is a big deal,” he says.

“We were looking for a creative way to make a big splash and involve the entire community.”

Anyone interested in participating may call the box office at (352) 236-2274 and ask for Katrina or Larry, or go to ocalacivictheatre.com/contact and send a message through a fillable form.

Onstage, the record attempt is to involve 20 actors.

“They will sleep in shifts and perform in shifts,” says Katrina. “They will get eight full hours in every 24 where they’re not participating in any way. Then, they have to all have one hour off [after each performance].”

The rehearsal room at OCT will house 20 sleeping cubicles for the performers, according to Katrina, who says they will not be allowed to leave the premises for the duration.

“Actors are hardy,” she continues.

“A lot of them are dancers. They work out. They take good care of themselves.”

JUST AS IMPORTANT to the record attempt, if not more so, are the contributions of people offstage.

The audience is to play an especially pivotal role in the record attempt: Guinness stipulates that no fewer than 20 people are to be in the audience at all times in order to qualify for the record.

“It’s pretty fun because you can do anything you want,” Katrina says of the audience’s role. “You can read. You can bring your knitting. You can bring your pillow and sleep. You can bring an iPad and watch a movie—with your earphones on. You can be engaged if you want to, but you don’t have to be.”

Dave Schlenker, a recent addition to OCT’s board, says the biggest need at the moment is for audience members.

“Everybody seems to like the idea, but we need to see more people actually signing up,” says Schlenker, who covered OCT as a journalist during a 27-year career at the Ocala Star-Banner.

“We do have one group that’s planning on doing a slumber-party theme, showing up in jammies. We’d like to see more of that.”

Katrina says audience members will raise funds in a manner similar to March of Dimes walk-a-thons, with sponsors pledging an amount for each hour the spectator is in the audience.

“Then you collect that and you come sit in the audience,” she says. “It all goes to the theater.”

THE PLAN IS FOR OCT to have everything firmed up—lists of actors, audience members, timekeepers, witnesses, donors—no less than two weeks before the March 29 launch of “79 For 70.”

“It sounds like a really cool and ambitious idea,” says Schlenker. “Then you sit down and you’re thinking, ‘Oh my gosh. This is beyond ambitious. It’s borderline insane.’ But it’s been very, very fun planning it.’”

The record-setting fundraiser is just one of the novel ways Ocala Civic Theatre is marking its 70th year—another innovation this year is a “season reveal” party open to the public.

At the same time, the gala year also includes a somber anniversary. Mary Britt, the theater’s longtime executive director, who had been associated with OCT for more than 30 years, died last April 3.

KATRINA, 63, WHOSE CAREER included a stint as an actress in New York, moved to Central Florida in the 1980s and worked as a freelance director for about 30 years. She directed as a freelancer at OCT for eight seasons and got to know the iconic director.

“Before we lost Mary, she contacted me back in the winter [of 2018] and asked me if I would be available, if things got challenging, to come up and help,” Katrina says. “She was ill at that time. As thoughtful and loving and devoted to this theater as she was, she was really thinking about what the future was going to look like.”

From Mary’s death in April through September, Katrina served OCT in an interim leadership role.

Meanwhile, OCT’s board reorganized its leadership structure. In October, the board named Katrina to the new, permanent post of artistic director.

The board is conducting a nationwide search for another new leadership position, though, that of business and development director.

Katrina chokes up when asked for her impressions after almost a year

OCT is planning a Guinness World Record attempt that will span 79 hours of consecutive performances. at OCT. She sums it up in one word: resilience.

“One definition of resilience is the ability to regain your shape after a lifechanging event,” says Katrina.

“Another meaning for the word resilience,” she continues, “is the ability of something to reimagine itself in a form that retains the beauty of the first form, but that is stronger, right? That is what I think of OCT, the staff, the volunteers, the community that supports it.”

WHAT ELSE YOU CAN DO IN 79 HOURS? • Drive from Ocala to Seward, Alaska, a journey of 4,800 miles.

• Listen to the Old Testament and New Testament on audiobook.

• Binge-watch all nine seasons of “Seinfeld” on DVD.

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

21

My Florida

By Melody Murphy [melody@ocalasgoodlife.com]

Orange-Blossom Season Is Upon Us

I

t’s orange-blossom season, one of my favorite times of year. I love to drive through miles of blooming orange groves with my windows down, breathing in that heavenly, honey-sweet scent until I’m lightheaded and dizzy as a nectar-drunk bumblebee.

Both sets of my grandparents lived in Bartow, about a hundred miles south of here, in the heart of citrus country.

My mother’s parents had a yard full of citrus trees.

Planted in the 1920s when the house was built, they were unusually large and leafy due to their advanced age. As a child, I would climb the tangerine tree to lean back against one big forked limb and read. My grandfather made me a swing out of a rope and old lumber, which hung from the grapefruit tree.

There were four orange trees. I had a slide under one when I was little. My grandmother would get up early to pick oranges so we’d have fresh-squeezed juice with breakfast, which is exactly why I am so spoiled about orange juice and will not touch concentrate.

My mother remembers when they had lemon trees, which a freeze killed when she was young. The neighbor behind them had some excellent Meyer lemon trees.

I love anything lemon, so when Miss Lucille hollered over the fence for me to come pick all I wanted, I gladly availed myself.

A third of the block was an orange grove, where I played hide-and-seek. Not a yard was without citrus. So this time of year, when it was all in bloom, was glorious.

My father’s parents only had one small citrus tree in their yard, but it was a source of spirited debate for

My grandmother would get up early to pick oranges so we’d have freshsqueezed juice with breakfast.

22

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

years. Tucked behind the back porch, it bore an abundant crop of small round fruit with a thin, sweet, edible rind. The inside was incredibly tart, so sour it would pucker your mouth and squinch up your tongue.

I loved it. As a child, I lived on it and the loquats in the side yard during my hours playing outside. I admit freely to being evil in my younger years and offering it to friends without telling them it was sour, only that they could eat it rind and all. If I could keep a straight face, their reaction was always spectacularly worth it.

But what was it? I grew up calling it a kumquat, but I was disputed in later years.

“That is not a kumquat,” said my grandmother, severely and with authority, as she said most things.

“Kumquats are not round.”

I beg to differ. There are two varieties of kumquat: one round, one oval. I told her this. I showed her the facts, in print. She remained unmoved. I asked her what it was, if not a kumquat. There aren’t too many citrus varieties with tart flesh and sweet edible rind. She said it had been there since they moved into the house in 1958, and the people they bought it from said what it was—but she didn’t remember. However, it was not a kumquat.

I applied myself to citrus research. I wanted to prove I was right. Then I discovered the existence of the calamondin. The description is identical. Though larger than a kumquat, the two look very much alike.

I asked her if it could be a calamondin. She said that didn’t sound right either.

And so The Great Kumquat-Calamondin War ended in a draw. I grudgingly allowed that it might be a calamondin whose fruit had shrunk with age. She made no such allowance for the kumquat. But we never knew for sure.

The trees are all gone now, and my grandparents are too. Oddly enough, the last ancient citrus tree in each of their yards died shortly after each grandmother did, as if their lives had been entwined. I can believe that.

For the sweet grandmother, one last orange tree, source of blossoms and fresh-squeezed juice—and for the scrappy one, a mystery tree which bore tart fruit, riled up the unprepared, and bred heated debate. Which seems accurate.

And I can promise you she died believing it was not a kumquat.

Summertime is the busiest time to move.

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April is National Healthcare Decisions Month Make your end-of-life decisions known. It's not as hard as you think!

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Learn how from our experts at various events in April (check our web calendar for a full list of locations and times) April 20: David Elliott, MD-living wills for veterans April 21: Mery Lossada, MD-advance directives

www.hospiceofmarion.com 352-873-7400

LIC# IM2661

of Marion County Feel better. Live better.

Elder Law Experience Nursing Home Planning Estate Planning For Long Term Care (Medicaid & VA) Guardianship • Probate • Wills • Trusts Power of Attorney Advance Directives & Living Wills Tax Advice & Advanced Wealth Planning Shannon Mulkey, Esq.

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NEW FLORIDA RESIDENTS:

Let us review your will.

Final directive packages available.

Please call for appointments.

(352) 732-5900 probatelawyerocala.com

310 SE 8th Street, Ocala, FL 34471

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

23

OUT & ABOUT

5 Nancy & Bill Stewart

5 Justine, Kevin & Nola Terneus

First Annual Marion Rotary Duck Derby

5Rosetta Dyson, Trisha Mitchell, and Kolbe Dyson

Some lucky duck won $2,020. That was first place prize in the First Annual Marion Rotary Duck Derby held in February at Lake Tuscawilla. In all, 5,000 rubber duckies, each with an adopted value of $5, were dumped in to water on the lake’s east side.

Lacking any wind to push them along, they were helped to the finish line on the opposite shore by occasional bursts from a fire hose. The event raised a total of $18,000 with the benefits going to the Discovery Center and other charities supported by the Rotary Clubs of Marion County.

5 Beverly & Greg Wise

Photos By Steve Floethe

5 Tatiana Bellony and Alondra Perez

24

5 Terri & Ron Nowlin

5 Dan & Loria Geer

3 Dale & Ken Wade 4 Releasing of the ducks.

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

SPECIAL TO OCALA’S GOOD LIFE

Expert Advice: Medicare

Knock, knock who is there?

Better not be a health agent.

T

here are very strict rules prohibiting the solicitation of most health insurance products.

Still, every day, seniors experience harassing calls and unplanned visits by people wanting to influence their healthcare coverage decisions.

Sometimes the solicitor claims to be assigned to the neighKristi Foret borhood, referred by a friend or following up on an authorization you don’t recall providing. Your health care, including your insurance information, is private and should only be shared with a licensed agent you pick to represent your interests. Never share your information with anyone who reaches out to you without your permission.

There is some good news in all of this. First, there are some resources available to help you reduce the amount of unwanted calls and mail. Best Plan Choice has a licensed agent in the Ocala area who can provide some tips to reduce the unsolicited contact. Second, the fact that you are being contacted about your Medicare coverage may mean you are eligible to make some new or additional choices.

If you are interested in learning more about how you can take control of your Medicare coverage and understand all of your options, we welcome you to initiate contact with Kristi Foret of Best Plan Choice at 352389-9700. She has dedicated her insurance career to helping individuals who have Medicare, or are turning 65 soon, with the important information about plan choice types (Supplemental policies vs Medicare Advantage), plan coverage options (PPO vs HMO) and carrier choices. She can demonstrate zero premium plans offer-

ing all the benefits covered by Medicare and more.

Our full-service agency is dedicated to working directly with individuals, groups and communities to bring our services to you, at your request. Making a decision about your health coverage is important and should be evaluated when you are turning 65 and then at least once a year. Medicare health insurance is NOT like home or auto insurance. There are no loyalty points or rate adjustments for remaining enrolled in the same plan or with the same company. There is no discount or rate increase based on using services. There is no penalty for enrolling in a new plan and having medical costs.

As a matter of fact, health plans are required to provide transitional assistance if you enroll with pre-existing medical treatment. You often get more personalized services from a care manager.

As for coverage, every January 1st starts a new plan year but you must make your decision during the year prior. As an agency, we won’t ask you for any personal medical information, but because we are certified with all carriers we can identify plans with lower costs, different pharmacy coverage, less out-of-pockets expenses, and the doctors who accept the insurance.

If you would like to obtain a complete analysis of your insurance needs, we can schedule a personalized appointment in your home. As always, our services are without charge or cost to you. Call us at Best Plan Choice, where Clients become Friends, and Friends become Clients!

Never share your information with anyone who reaches out to you without your permission.

Kristi Foret is a licensed health insurance agent with Best Plan Choice. She specializes in Medicare policies and is a member of the equestrian community living in Ocala. Call her to schedule your in-home appointment for a FREE personalized review and see what Medicare benefits may not be in your mailbox.

Call Kristi today!

Kristi Foret, Health Agent

(352) 389-9700

*this is based on your eligibility and available plans in your county.

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

25

GOOD NEIGHBORS: MARGARET WATTS

“The Nativity”

An Inspired Artist

Local painter Margaret Watts’ larger-than-life gallery—68 pieces in all—surely must inspire the congregants of the equally larger-than-life Queen of Peace Catholic Church on SR 200 on a typical Sunday. But her paintings are also remarkable for their timeless stories from the Bible and for the memories they evoke from the artist who created such lovely works.

26

BY CLAUDIA O’BRIEN • PHOTOS BY STEVE FLOETHE

F

or decades, professional fine artist Margaret Watts has delighted people near and far with her memorable art.

Some of our readers may even be fortunate enough to have one or more of the Ocala painter’s works hanging on their walls.

Margaret is perhaps best known locally for her realistic oil and pastel landscape paintings. Many of her works, inspired by places in and around Ocala and Marion County, offer a strong sense of place and an aura of serenity in our often too-hurried world. Readers may also have seen her lovely drawn and painted renditions of local

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

past and current historic structures made into popular notecards and used in books on the history of Marion County.

There is, however, one aspect of Margaret’s art that many of her fans may not know about. It’s the magnificent collection of her Bible-inspired paintings that hangs on the walls of Queen of Peace Catholic Church on SR 200.

TWENTY-FIVE YEARS AGO, Father Patrick J. O’Doherty, pastor at Queen of Peace, asked fine artist and professor John Briggs at the then-called Central Florida Commu-

“The Resurrection”

OCALA’S OCALA’S GOOD GOOD LIFE LIFE retirement retirement redefined redefined

27 27

“Mary, The New Eve”

nity College for the name of the area’s finest portrait painter. Without any hesitation, John Briggs replied, “Margaret Watts,” and gave him her contact number.

Father O’Doherty soon called Margaret, told her of John Briggs’ recommendation, and asked if she would be available to create fine artworks

28

for the church. Although Queen of Peace is not her parish church—she is a longtime member at Blessed Trinity—she accepted his invitation with enthusiasm.

Today, 68 pieces of her remarkable sacred art hang on the church’s walls.

Many of them feature people who are members of the congregation and

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

others Margaret knows personally. Some are the friends and relatives of those friends.

Margaret’s late husband Bernard is pictured in “The Pentecost” image. (He is the man kneeling beside Mary.)

And Father O’Doherty’s late mother is one of the three women in the background of “The Resurrection” painting.

Last year, we attended a community program on Margaret’s church art presented by the Visual Artists Society from the College of Central Florida. It took place inside the church where Margaret was able to take the attendees right to her paintings and tell them fascinating—and often humorous—stories about their creation and about the real-life people in the scenes.

Some of the artwork that’s hung high on the towering walls of the sanctuary required Margaret to paint atop an electric lift set up in the church. On her first experience with it, she ascended on the contraption with lots of help by church workmen who explained the lift mechanism and how to descend when she was ready to come back down.

By the time she was ready to descend, however, Margaret says she couldn’t figure out which button to push. By then, the workmen were long gone. Fortunately, there was a woman sitting in a pew below.

Imagine that woman’s surprise when she heard Margaret call out for help from above. She asked her to please go to the church office and tell

someone there, “Margaret needs to come down.” She laughs as she explains the ordeal, adding that by the time someone arrived a short time later to help her descend, she had figured it out for herself.

And then there was the time she noticed a small neat pile of snakeskin that had been shed by a visiting reptile on the floor next to where she was working on a large painting atop scaffolding in the church’s maintenance building. However, no one could tell her where the snake itself was located.

“That,” Margaret remembers, “didn’t give me any peace of mind.”

IN THE CHURCH NARTHEX HANGS a very large oil painting entitled, “The Resurrection.” It was the very first painting Margaret created for the church in 1994. It is also the largest painting she has done for Queen of Peace, measuring 17 feet in height and 11.5 feet in width. The painting was created entirely off-site at the Colonial Paper Company in northeast Ocala and was carefully transported to the church where a team of workmen positioned and hung the massive work. Margaret says she watched every minute of the operation and, appropriately enough, prayed that everything would go smoothly.

The young soldier that’s shown in different poses in this painting was a young CF student whom a friend had recommended because she felt he would be a perfect model. When he accepted the invitation to participate, Margaret had him fitted for his uniform at the Ocala Civic Theatre and arranged to pose and photograph him against an outside marble wall at the Appleton Museum next door. She wanted to capture the look she had in mind of him against marble so she could paint his likeness into the portrait from those photographs.

Every painting seems to hold two stories—the intended biblical one and the real-life tale of the people in immortalized on the canvas.

On either side of the main altar in the church hang two large paintings:

“The Pentecost” and “Mary, The New Eve.” The woman who posed as Mary for the latter portrait is the daughter of a friend of Margaret’s. Baby Jesus is the daughter’s baby. There’s even a personal connection with the dove. One of Margaret’s sons, James, enjoys amateur photography and she asked if he had photographs of doves he could send her to paint from. Another of the dove pictures he sent was used in another painting.

In “The Pentecost” painting, the model for Mary is the mother of the woman who posed in the “Mary, The New Eve” painting. Lastly, Margaret’s late husband Bernard is the man kneeling closest to Mary in “The Pentecost” painting.

Father O’Doherty says that not only are Margaret’s works true to the highest artistic standards, she has been able to leave her own personality and idiosyncracies out of the paintings.

“She tells the stories without adding any personal comments,” he explains.

Father O’Doherty feels that the church’s diverse collection of art telling the story of the congregation’s faith is now complete.

Altogether, the pieces depict stories from both Judaism and Christianity, including the Old and New Testaments from “Genesis” to “The Apocalypse.”

IN NOVEMBER 2017, Margaret had a frightening health scare.

Alone at home, she collapsed after experiencing a pulmonary embolism. She was unable to summon help, but miraculously two friends from her church just happened to stop by for an unexpected visit and found her.

Margaret calls that “a

miracle” and says that the excellent care she received in the ambulance, at the hospital, and at the rehabilitation

Some of the artwork hung high on the towering walls of the sanctuary required Margaret Watts to paint atop an electric lift. center has helped enable her to make a remarkable recovery.

Now 86, Margaret says the one concession she’s making these days is to not go up on scaffolding anymore.

“One of my neighbors even confiscated my little five-foot ladder to make sure I couldn’t use it,” she complains with a smile. “However,” she adds. “I have no plans to stop painting.”

“The Pentecost”

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

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30

A Downtown

The heart of Ocala is now the perfect blend of old and new.

BY DEAN BLINKHORN

K

evin Sheilley, the president and CEO of the Ocala/Marion County Chamber & Economic Partnership, is on a mission.

On most days, he can easily be seen striding off from the CEP’s downtown office to some favorite place for lunch with clients or co-workers, dinner with friends and family, or to the City of Ocala headquarters on some official business. His tall, thin, well-dressed frame is hard to miss. On these jaunts he’s visibly and genuinely in his element, an active participant in the rebirth of Ocala’s core district—and he’s seen many redevelopment efforts in a three-decade career that brought him to this Central Florida city seven years ago.

“A downtown of any city, regardless of the size, is its heart and soul,” he explains. “The revitalization of Downtown Ocala is symbolic of the tremendous growth of this community and all the expansion we’ve seen over the last couple of years.”

Ask him about his favorite and it changes all the time, sometimes with the seasons, but often by an enticing tweet or Facebook post.

“Our downtown has a wide mix of entertainment,

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

shopping, and restaurant options,” he says. “No other city is going to have the Reilly Arts Center, Marion Cultural Alliance, or our historic first-run movie theater. And they certainly won’t have our award-winning restaurants.”

Over the last few years, city government has invested millions to ensure that Downtown Ocala is welcoming, well-lit, and has easier-than-ever access from the large parking garage near the new hotel. If you haven’t been in a while, a lot has changed. Peruse an art show, drop in for an early happy hour at Harry’s or Mark’s, or get a ticket for a budget-priced matinee, and you’ll quickly realize that this is the true heart of the city.

“It’s hard to choose my favorite spot,” Kevin concludes. “And isn’t that the best thing about Downtown Ocala?” 4

Photo: Ralph Demilio

Reborn

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

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IVY BOUTIQUE—A cute shop as uniquely Southern as its namesake restaurant located across the street. Unique and fashionable jewelry, clothing, and home décor.

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

Ralph Demilio

John Jernigan

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BANK STREET PATIO BAR & GRILL—This beautiful indoor/outdoor restaurant features spacious covered outdoor seating at the long bar, near the kid’s play area, or around a permanently situated food truck.

Somehow it feels decadent and casual at the same time.

Trevor Byrne

TUSCAWILLA ART PARK—“Headless Marie” (left), designed through a city-sponsored sculpture contest for the popular park, was beheaded one evening by unknown vandals shortly after being installed. To the city’s credit, she still sits proudly like a strong piece of art should.

John Jernigan

MARION THEATRE—Many newcomers to Ocala are surprised to see this gem for the first time, an Art Deco masterpiece that isn’t collecting dust but rather plays first-run movies pretty much every day of the year. “This beautiful Streamline Moderne structure opened in 1941 with a seating capacity for 902,” says cinematreasures.org. “The exterior is in its original state and looks fantastic, and the interior has been restored to a nostalgic style and feel.”

John Jernigan

OCALA DOWNTOWN MARKET— Held every Saturday morning, this covered pavilion offers fresh produce, tasty prepared foods, and lots of locally made goods.

33 33

OCALA / MARION COUNTY CEPLIFE RELOCATION & redefined BUSINESS GUIDE

OCALA’S GOOD retirement

Trevor Byrne

FETA—This Mediterranean-inspired restaurant’s menu is as unique as the stone walls that encase the delicious aromas of authentic moussaka, spanakopita, pastichio, tyropita, or chicken souvlaki. Opa!

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LA CUISINE—This beautiful, French-inspired restaurant has been on the downtown dining scene for a decade and has enjoyed a remarkable run of quality and consistency in that time.

As a result, La Cuisine was recently named to the prestigious Golden Spoon Hall of Fame by “Florida Trend” magazine. “Ten years ago,” says co-owner Patrice Perron, “Elodie and I made a decision to pack up our family and move to this country with nothing but faith and a dream. This one’s for you!”

Ralph Demilio

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

INFINITE ALE WORKS—Featuring 34 different taps of locally sourced craft beers (including a dozen or so brewed right on premise), Infinite is regarded as a well respected brewery in the growing Florida craft beer scene. Try a $10 flight—you get four five-ounce pours of your choice of Infinite’s brews.

KATYA—This unique corner spot just north of the gazebo offers an amazing pairing of delicious wines—many from the family’s own local vineyards—with a long menu of gourmet foods. The impeccably dressed space is the perfect spot for a memorable meal or a pre-show hangout of tapas and wines. You might even see a celebrity sighting!

Alex Rodriguez and Jennifer Lopez popped in recently for a secluded meal with extended family.

Ralph Demilio Trevor Byrne

Debi Lander

Ralph Demilio

Debi Lander

BRICK CITY SOUTHERN KITCHEN—Delicious specialty barbecue and a massive wall of different whiskeys? Who wants to join me?

MARK’S PRIME—Enjoy a generous pour at the separate bar area or sit down for a memorable evening of fine dining at one of Ocala’s best restaurants. Choose from the hand-cut steaks, exceptional wine list, and sides generous enough to share.

THE CORKSCREW—Toast yourself and your unique vintage (or craft beer) at this make-it-yourself winery.

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

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Ralph Demilio

IVY ON THE SQUARE— With a gorgeous view of Magnolia Avenue, this well-established local restaurant’s newest location has a uniquely Southern vibe. I’ve gone there so many times with friends, family, co-workers, and clients that I’ve lost count. It’s simply one of the best restaurants in Ocala. And the killer bar is a distinctive extra!

36 OCALA OCALA’S GOOD LIFE CEP retirement redefined / MARION COUNTY RELOCATION & BUSINESS GUIDE 36

Ralph Demilio

Ralph Demilio

STELLA’S MODERN PANTRY—You’ll certainly feel special if you get one of a handful of tables at this extremely popular bakery and sandwich shop, but everyone can peruse the well-stocked shelves for an always-surprising assortment of gourmet items.

HARRY’S—Their enviable location overlooking the square and closest to the new hotel, will make this New Orleans-inspired hotspot even tougher to get into. Don’t let that stop you. The She Crab soup is worth the wait!

Ralph Demilio

PI ON BROADWAY—Rooftop dining in Ocala is a Pi staple. Enjoy a gorgeous sunset with friends during happy hour in a set of chairs more comfortable than your living room.

Ralph Demilio

John Jernigan

SAYULITA—Named after a small surfing village in Mexico, this place’s never-ending party starts inside and then spills outside to a cool open-air courtyard with cheap beer and delectable margaritas served from an Airstream. The tacos and guacamole are amazing.

DOWNTOWN DINER—A friendly eatery with an old-school diner feel. Enjoy a quick egg sandwich or a decadent chicken waffle for breakfast or a delicious burger or hot dog for a hearty lunch.

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

37

OUT & ABOUT

5 Linda & Russ Warner

5 Bob Spitzer, Debra Lahm, Carl Garcia and Jack Sultz

Fourth Annual MTRA Golf Tournament This yearly fundraising event helps support MTRA’s programs of providing the benefits of therapeutic horseback riding and equine-facilitated learning to people of all ages who are physically, mentally or emotionally challenged. MTRA has been able to offer these services for more than 30 years, with support from donors and sponsors and dedicated volunteers. To learn more about MTRA, including intriguing volunteer opportunities, visit mtraocala.org.

5 Ian Bancroft and Andy Seiler

5 Frank Gainor and Dan Shaw

Photos By Steve Floethe

3 Greg Allen and Kyle Moeder 4Nancy LaBarge, Kathy Sparks and Peggy Eizans

an

5 Eric Halsteter, Butch Cunningham and Julie Karp

38

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

5 Diann Addis, Lynn Barber, Karen Mikulik and Terry Herbert

UPCOMING EVENTS t — Just For You The Best in Live Entertainmen

“Up, Up and Away” starring Marilyn McCoo & Billy Davis, Jr. Grammy Award winners and original stars and lead singers of the legendary group The 5th Dimension.

March 28, 2020 at 7:30pm

The Meaning

of Life

Music from Richard Wagner, Richard Strauss & Pyotr Tchaikovsky

Saturday, April 25 at 7:30pm Sunday, April 26 at 3:00pm

Béla Fleck & Abigail Washburn

The “king and queen of the banjo” bring their award-winning collaboration of music. Béla is a 15-time Grammy Award winner, nominated in more categories than any other artist in Grammy history.

May 8, 2020 at 7:30pm

For a listing of all upcoming shows and to purchase tickets visit ReillyArtsCenter.com or call the box office at 352-351-1606.

500 NE 9th St., Ocala, Florida 34470 • Box Office Hours: 10am-2pm

N

me he o H ew mT ro

ges F

SUPPORTED BY

Ocala’s Premier Manufactured Home Community

s ’ 0 8 $

a Pack

We invite you to tour our new model homes.

We can custom build to your specifications!

Buy new or pre-owned—explore which option works best for you.

352-620-0188 3151 NW 44th Ave., Ocala FL 34482 SweetwaterOaksOcala.com

A Gated 55 Plus Commun ity

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

39

RENEW HOME SHOWCASE: Steve & Nicole Tucker

BEFORE

AFTER 5The Tuckers wanted an abundance of counter space, as well as a space for the family to gather, so walls were knocked down and a massive island was built.

White quartz countertops acheived the clean, bright look they were hoping for.

4Nicole especially loves the new coffee station, a welcome retreat for a busy mom!

AFTER

‘We Wanted A Family-Friendly Layout’

40

ReNew in Ocala is the place to go to fix outdated floors, bathrooms, and kitchens on a budget.

Just ask satisfied clients Steve and Nicole Tucker.

S

The Tuckers

teve and Nicole Tucker love their tranquil home in Wildwood that they’ve lived in for the past seven years. They moved from Pittsburgh and now have three small children: Ava (5), Noah (3), and Paisley (2). Steve is an occupational therapist and Nicole is a physical therapist and they’re both passionate about helping others get active and reduce pain to get out and enjoy sunny Florida.

It’s the type of lifestyle that

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

they model every day—they love taking the kids to nearby beaches and theme parks whenever time allows.

Knowing they plan to remain in their house as their family grows, the Tuckers knew they’d need to tackle the most-used room in the house—the kitchen.

“We wanted a familyfriendly layout with a more open feel,” Nicole says. “We wanted a lot more counter space for food preparation, as

our kids love to help out in the kitchen. With a family of five, we also needed way more storage space and a more functional layout that maximized every square foot.”

Their existing kitchen was pretty boring. Lots of wasted, disjointed space and cabinets that anchored the whole space squarely in a previous decade. The Tuckers wanted a more modern style with lots of bright whites for a cleaner look. Considering their

O CA LA

SAVE

LS

healthcare backgrounds, this preference “We love our 11-1/2 foot island!

Steve and Nicole would definitely should come as no surprise!

It’s the first thing your eye is drawn to,” recommend ReNew for anyone looking Once they zeroed in on the Nicole says. “The soft-white, marbleto remodel their kitchen or bathrooms. kitchen, Steve and Nicole called several like quartz is hard to look away from.”

“Everyone who sees our new kitchcompanies and received varying offers She especially loves the coffee en is quick to compliment Jim’s design and costs. Jim LaValle with ReNew was station. and hard work,” Steve says. “Each the most responsive.

“It’s such a great use of a small guest has commented on how much “Jim was very honest,” Nicole space and adds so much character,” she more storage and space now exists.” recalls. “ReNew had a lot of five-star continues. “And with three kids under The family also loved the addition reviews and he called back right away. five, a coffee station was a must!” of pendant lighting for dramatic effect We had three other quotes, but we It’s a nice touch and the kitchen and the recessed lighting, which has immediately connected with Jim. He is now filled with them. Thoughtful really helped to brighten up the space wasn’t pushy like the others and he embellishments like that and a modern in an incredibly subtle way. The showrespected our vision.” design that more accurately reflects stopper, though, is always the large Once they selected ReNew, Jim the couple’s sophisticated tastes will island that has immediately allowed immediately came out to show them undoubtedly keep the Tucker family in for increased seating and lots of fun, lots of examples of previous work and this home for a long time to come. shared family memories. many physical samples they’d want to For Jim LaValle, it’s another job The Tuckers also liked that the consider while remodeling this imporwell done, something that never gets company’s work was superb and that tant space, a daunting task for anyone old for him or his crew. They take Jim kept everything well within budunfamiliar with the myriad choices for pride in every single assignment, and get. They would definitely use ReNew each part of the process. he’s more than happy to guide his again.

Jim is very easy to work with,” clients every step of the way.

“I highly recommend Jim’s comNicole says. “He was quick to email us “You have to have that vision of pany,” Nicole says. “He had wonderful 3D images of our design and had no what the final product is going to look suggestions. If we choose to remodel problem changing things out to make like,” Jim explains, “and the product anything else in our new home, we sure we loved it.” knowledge to get the job done.” would definitely use him again.”

Recognizing that they were going to have a lot of work From This… done on their house, they let Rethink Jim and his crew come and go as needed. ReNew worked Remodel efficiently, and the couple liked Reface the work they were doing.

The Tuckers noticed that Refinish Jim’s subcontractors took pride in their work and tried Renew. to ensure that the couple’s E F I S L PEC IA OOD usual home life was not ’S G To This disrupted by their tasks. The 6000 $ couple enjoyed their interacr e v ff job o ,000 tions and the care they took $500 O ff job over $11 ,000 O 16 in making sure everything was $1,000 Off job over $ 1,000 2 0 done to their satisfaction. $1,50 Off job over $ 1301 SW 37th Ave # 109 Ocala 34474 0 “The remodel took about hen $2,00 is ad w

By Appointment Only tion th ointment. n e m four weeks, which included Must uling app Call Jim (352) 857-9604 sched the demolition of the wall, RenewKandB.com moving the electric, resetting the plumbing, as well as adding recessed lighting and installing whole-house flooring,” Steve says, also mentioning FINANCING AVAILABLE the crew. “They were topnotch. They were genuinely Professionally managed projects from design to completion kind and happy guys.”

Now the couple loves the Cabinets • Countertops • Flooring • Showers Jim LaValle —“The Design Guy” results.

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

41

SPECIAL TO OCALA’S GOOD LIFE

‘Can We Count On Your Help?’

By Dr. Renny Edelson, Chiropractic USA

A

nyone who knows or loves someone possible without the help of Damian and Audrey working through end-of-life issues will Romano, along with my wife and the entire staff of know how much of a blessing it is to have Chiropractic USA. I would like to sincerely thank the caregivers and the Hospice of Marion all of them for their enormous help.

County (HMC) facility there when they needed Can we count on you? Your help is going to them most. HMC is available to all people in any make a tremendous difference. For it to succeed, setting—home, hospital, nursing home, or at one we need folks like you to register and participate of their three Hospice Houses. HMC is a not-forin the tournament. Don’t play golf? I bet you know profit organization with a 24/7 Care Team staffed a neighbor who does! Please help us get the word by doctors, RNs, CNAs, social workers, pharmaout, and we’d love to see you on April 18th. cists, chaplains, and of course, volunteers.

HMC’s mission is to provide exceptional, compassionate end-of-life care to our entire community. The patients are chatterboxes and recluses, religious and irreligious, battered by cancer, congestive heart failure, Alzheimer’s, old age, etc. Some cling to life amazingly, most pass as they expected.

I’m telling you this story because it reveals the thoughts, the fears, and the lessons of those living the ends of their lives in the care of others, having exhausted their medical options or ceased treatment for their illnesses. It zeroes in on how working with HMC can be incredibly fulfilling. For the doctors, nurses, or professional social workers, or just a volunteer lending a hand, HMC matters. The end-of-life experience deserves as much beauty, care, and respect as the beginning.

HMC operates on a strict non-profit budget with a very large part of their annual funding coming from the families who have been there. The other source of revenue comes from fundraising events, supported by the generosity of local businesses and concerned citizens.

The first annual Hackin’ It For Hospice Golf Tournament was conceived by me as a way to make an impact on this most worthDamian Romano & Dr. Renny Edelson while organization. This event would not be

GOOD EATS: TONY’S SUSHI

‘Time Flies When You’re Having Fun’

By Rick Allen • Photos By John Jernigan

For nearly 20 years now, Tony’s Sushi has been the premier destination for sushi in Ocala— whether you prefer it traditional or innovative.

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I

still recall the day I met Tony Li and his wife, Jane. They’d just taken over the closed Toyko Steakhouse in Colours Plaza, and I was there to find out about these newcomers to Ocala’s culinary landscape.

What an afternoon! As we talked about their background and plans for the

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

future, plate after plate of delightful creations came over the sushi case. I didn’t need to eat supper that evening.

But we’re not here today to talk about sushi. Rather, our topic is what makes Tony’s Sushi Japanese Steakhouse a Japanese steakhouse—the teppanyaki tables.

For many, this is the only reason to visit Tony’s. The flashing knives, the flaming onion volcano, the corny jokes, the brimming plates, half of which invariably go home for later.

There are few places where a whole family can sit around a table and watch as dinner is prepared before their eyes.

Teppan tables are especially popular for holidays, birthdays, graduations, or other special occasions. And Tony welcomes that.

“A lot of people like it,” he says.

“It’s not only for the adults, but it’s a lot of fun for the kids. The kids love catching the zucchini and broccoli.”

These are masterly pitched by the chef to awaiting open mouths.

To help mark a child’s birthday, with parental permission, the birthday child is invited to join the chef at the grill, don a special chef ’s toque and attempt to crack an egg mid-air with the spatula, a special thrill, we learned, when one of our kids turned seven.

“I see a lot of kids, well they were kids, all grown up, some with kids of their own,” Tony says. “It feels good to see so many grown up.”

Tony’s features nine teppan tables.

There’s at least one of his five teppan chefs on duty any time the eatery is open. They’re in addition to five sushi chefs and five prep chefs back in the kitchen.

“They come already trained,” he adds, “but I work with them to do my style.”

When reminded his place is approaching its 20th anniversary, Tony shook his head.

“Whew!” he replies. “Time flies.”

Well, that’s what they say when you’re having fun. And Tony obviously still is.

WHERE: Tony’s Sushi Japanese Steakhouse is at 3405 Southwest College Road (SR 200) in the Colours Plaza.

WHY GO: I often wonder about this section. Why does anyone go to any restaurant? Typically, it’s for the cuisine or to recapture a previous experience. If a place can draw you in with the same experience time and again, well why wouldn’t you go?

And Tony’s is just such a place. I’ve lost track of how many times over the decades my family and I have walked through the doors to mark a special event or just for sushi. And we probably will do so as many times in the years to come.

Tony’s is just that special to us.

BEST TIME TO GO: If your idea of a best time is crowd avoidance, then weekday mid-afternoons are for you.

When I met Tony at 2:30pm a few weeks ago, all the teppan tables were silent.

Yet even at that hour, there’s a teppan chef on duty, ready to warm up his spatula and cheesy jokes.

Holidays, week-

ends, and evenings of any day ending in “y” you’re likely to encounter a wait if you just walk in. Fortunately, Tony’s takes advance reservations. And it’s a good idea to do so, especially if you have a larger party.

YOU’LL BE IMPRESSED BY: If you’ve never been to a Japanese steakhouse such as Benihana’s or Kobe, or Tony’s, the entirety of the experience itself is likely to impress. The banging dance of the spatula, the groaner puns, the woosh of a fireball just inches away. Heck, I still remember my first outing in Orlando more than 35 years ago.

YOU MUST TRY: The creamy white sauce served with the meal. With so

For many, the flashing knives, the flaming onion volcano, the corny jokes, and the brimming plates are the only reason to visit Tony’s.

many wonderful items on the menu, I focus on that? Absolutely, because there are so many wonderful things to choose from and because it’s such a great complement to the chicken and steak, though it’s often suggested for the shrimp and scallops.

Tony explained how it was made— sort of. He learned its secret during his training in Japan.

“My teacher made some and let me taste it,” he says. “Then he gave me the list of everything in it, but not the proportions.”

It was up to the student to match the exact flavor of the master’s.

Tony recommends trying one of the combination options “to experience the variety of tastes.”

FRIENDLY STAFF: In all of my visits to Tony’s, I have never encountered

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

45

46

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anyone on the wait staff who shouldn’t be there. Tony interviews and selects each staffer himself to ensure they fit in.

“We’re family here,” he says.

INSIDER: If someone in your party is celebrating a birthday, let your server know. Of course the staff will come over to sing while the birthday boy or girl gets to wear the tackiest birthday hat ever, guaranteed to embarrass.

We’re looking for: Classic Rock • Jazz • Mobile Fidelity Half-Speed Masters • 24K Gold CDs

Call: (352) 208-4242

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

FINAL WORD: Obviously it’s sushi, and obviously I couldn’t resist. The sushi menu is extensive, but it’s the “off-the-menu” specialties Tony stays up at night perfecting. Simply ask, “Make something just for me.” Odds are you’ll be delighted with what comes to your table.

“There are lots of new things coming to the sushi side pretty soon,” Tony says. Well, it wouldn’t be the Tony’s I know if there wasn’t.

By the way, you can order sushi items at the teppan tables. Just sayin’...

WANT TO KNOW MORE? (352) 237-3151 tonysushiocala.com

Through May 24

From Spain to the U.S.

This exhibition has been organized by the Museum of International Folk Art, Santa Fe, New Mexico and is circulating through GuestCurator Traveling Exhibitions. This exhibition is sponsored by Fine Arts For Ocala and CAMPUS USA Credit Union.

Museum, Artspace and Appleton Store Hours

Tuesday–Saturday: 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Sunday: noon–5 p.m.

4333 E. Silver Springs Blvd. | AppletonMuseum.org | 352-291-4455 -an equal opportunity college-

• • • • • • • • • • • • •

INTRODUCING

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Eliza Beadles, P.A.-C at Our West Ocala Office

Specializing in the Treatment of: Skin Surgery | Mole & Blemish Removal General Dermatology | Skin Diseases & Skin Cancers ALWAYS ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS Call today! 352-732-3501

Dermatologist

Michael J. Freeman, M.D., P.A. Dr. Michael J. Freeman

The Villages: 13690 US Hwy 441, Suite 300 The Villages, FL 32159

Local Practice | Local Doctor | Over 40 Years Main Ocala Office: 2750 S.E. 17th St. Ocala, FL 34471

West Ocala Office: 8750 SW Hwy 200, Suite 102 Ocala, FL 34481

In the pursuit of health

In the pursuit of health

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

47

cuisine queen

by Paula DiPaula [paula@ocalasgoodlife.com]

The Downtown Cuisine Scene Is Hoppin’

J

ust when you think Downtown Ocala has its fill of wineries, eateries, and hangouts, there’s still room for more! Mellow Mushroom, founded in 1974 in Atlanta, hopes to complete the remodel of the old Brother’s Keeper corner later this year, definitely not soon enough to those familiar with their delicious, stone-baked pizzas.

Also, Morevino: Fine Wine, Food & Spirits, 3045100, has opened in place of Tavern on the Square, an excellent location right across from the square on Silver Springs Boulevard. This restaurant features an extensive wine list handpicked by owner Brian Morey.

He’s spent the last 20 years importing and distributing wines throughout Florida, wanting to start his own business someday.

Lucky for us, he chose Ocala. The menu includes sandwiches (the bread is baked there), wraps, and more unique items.

Morevino has a full bar and you’ll get a kick out of Morey’s signature cocktails that reflect local highpoints of Marion County such as The Santos Trail Punch. Visit their Facebook page or morevinowine.com for hours and tempting photos.

Not too far from there, The Black Sheep on Broadway, 622-1207, has moved in where Fox Den Tavern used to be. Offering so much more, it’s a must-visit with a menu mix of American, Asian, Cuban, Mexican, Cajun, and Greek! Enjoy craft beers and wine. See their

Just when you think Downtown Ocala has its fill of wineries, eateries, and hangouts, there’s still room for more!

48

Facebook page for live entertainment dates and more.

A café off the beaten path, but so close to The Square is Muddy Lotus Kava Tea Bar, 559-3003. Kibbie Fulton and Sonya Ritchie were a pleasure to interview. Their passion was to open a café with a bar atmosphere minus the alcohol. In short, Muddy Lotus features feel-good teas including kava, which they claim is a small-shrub native to the islands in the South Pacific. Kava offers a natural and non-narcotic action that tames anxiety. The ladies support local artists, have open mic night, and even have a multiple-week singing contest.

Now onto mom-and-pop restaurant Todd and Shelly’s Farm Fresh Café & Pub, 693-5877. Located in Belleview where Tas-T-O Donuts used to be, this unique café serves a full breakfast menu, lunch, and offers beer, wine, and wine-based liquor drinks. You’ll love their made-from-scratch items on the hot bar and their smoked meats right from their smoker. See their Facebook page for more.

Tidbits: Have you heard about Craft Cuisine’s, 2377300, Build-Your-Own 4 Course Menu? Meals start at $13.99. Aunt Fannies in Belleview had a fire on February 11, but owners AJ and Kathy Umland, who have run the business for over 39 years, vow to rebuild and reopen.

River Run, 462-2833, is now open in Dunnellon in the Rainbow Springs Club. Inquire about their Elvis and Beatles shows upstairs. The small town of Salt Springs was ecstatic with the opening of Salt Springs Pizza, 6856665, and have now opened a second location in Silver Springs, the aptly named Silver Springs Pizza, 3045160. Same owners, same ingredients!

Changes: Richard’s Place is under new ownership and is now Diner on the Square, 351-2233. Cup O’ The Irish is now Papa Pineapples, 421-5466. Charlie Horse, 622-4050, is under new ownership.

Reader Suggestion: We love input from our readers.

Karen Couture and Michael Carnie highly suggest Akita Sushi, 291-9303 (the old Grace Sushi), for sushi lovers in the Canopy Oaks Plaza on SR 200. They enjoyed “very creative” specialty rolls and “some of the best sashimi around.” Thanks for the tip!

Got A Hot Tip For The Cuisine Queen?

E-mail me at paula@ocalasgoodlife.com

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

DINING GUIDE Birt A Grea hda t Ch y Ce oice lebra For tions !

Eating at Tony’s Sushi isn’t just dining—it’s entertainment! Grab a seat at the tableside grill and watch as the expert chefs flip knives, crack jokes, and flare up the flames as they prepare your chicken, steak, or seafood just the way you like it. Of 3405 SW College Road, Ocala course, the real star of the show is (352) 237-3151 • tonysushi.com the sushi—easily the best in town.

Using only the freshest of ingredients, Tony’s boast an impressive Specialties: Inventive sushi menu of sushi rolls. Ask your server rolls; grilled steak, chicken for suggestions because many of and seafood. FUN! the best rolls aren’t on the menu.

In fact, there are over 100 off-menu Hours: sushi rolls! With plenty of seating Mon.-Thurs. 11am-10pm and a lively, festive atmosphere, Fri.-Sat 11am-11pm Tony’s is the perfect place for large Sun Noon-10pm groups and birthdays.

FULL BAR!

Enjoy our outdoor seating!

48 SW 1st Avenue, Ocala (352) 433-2570 • lacuisineocala.com Recently named a Golden Spoon Award Hall of Fame Winner

by Florida Trend Magazine, La Cuisine is conveniently located in the heart of Ocala’s beautiful and vibrant historic downtown.

Ideal for a quick bite at lunch time or a leisure dinner, the menu is filled with classics such as onion soup, escargots and quiche.

Traditional French baguettes are the perfect accompaniment to the charcuterie or cheese platters. Duck a l’Orange and Beef Bourguignon pair perfectly with the diverse selection of wines on the expansive wine list. Come indulge yourself in a unique French Bistro atmosphere that Patrice and Elodie have been operating since 2009. A full liquor bar offers decadent cocktails while you enjoy the blissful live music on Fridays!

Specialties: Escargots, Frog Legs, Organic Half Roast Chick-

en, Beef Bourguignon, Ratatouille, Creme Brulee, Parmesan Truffle French Fries

Dinner Hours: Tues.-Sun. starting at 5:30pm.

Miranda Madison

Lunch Hours: Tues.-Fri. 11:30am-2pm Brunch: Sunday

11am-2pm

CLOSED MONDAYS

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

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! e it t e p p a r u o y g in r B

DINING GUIDE

Great American food in a warm, friendly atmosphere!

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

perfect 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!

Menu Items Include: Eggs, Pancakes, French Toast,

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

Hours:

Tues.-Sun. 7am-2pm Closed Mon. 50

Red’s

Breakfast & Lunch

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

(352) 344-4322 8411 North Carl G Rose Hwy, Hernando Directions: Take SR 200 west. Located 1/4 mile past the Withlacoochee river

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

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DINING GUIDE

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

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DINING GUIDE

A Culinary Tour of Downtown Ocala

F

8810 SW Hwy 200, Ocala (across from Pine Run) (352) 509-7721

ormerly Carmine’s, Marcelina continues the tradition, serving your favorite Italian dishes in a friendly, comfortable environment. Little details make the difference, like fresh hand-grated cheese over your salad and warm, crusty bread to dip in the dish of olive oil loaded with fresh garlic. As one online reviewer says, the sauce is just like his Sicilian grandmother made. Another reviewer says the pizza (available only at lunchtime) is the best she’s had since moving to Ocala! See for yourself why Marcelina’s earns a 4.5 star rating on Yelp. Serving beer and wine.

Food ls. : NEW ar Keyfor detai d l l Ce lks! Ca Wa

Hours: Mon.-Fri. 11am-9pm Sat. Noon-9pm Sun. 2pm-8pm

Can’t decide where to eat downtown? Try five restaurants in three hours with a Local Foodie!

ocalafoodwalks.com • (352) 462-5737

Make a full day of it! Start out with a river boat tour and end with a delicious dinner—all from one scenic location!

ST. JOHNS RIVER TOURS Departs from Blackwater Inn (866) 349-0674 www.stjohnsrivertours.com Before dining at Blackwater

Inn, take a leisurely boat tour to the many tributaries of the St. Johns River.

Discover exotic plant and wildlife steeped in history dating back to ancient Indian and Spanish civilizations. Call 866-349-0674 to book your boat tour with Capt. Bob. Accomodating groups of up to 21 people.

It’s the perfect daycation!

55716 Front St, Astor, FL 32102 • (352) 759-2802 www.blackwaterinn.com Info: Combine the picturesque view of the beautiful

St. Johns River with a lavish salad bar and tasty, fresh seafood (or USDA Choice beef) for a true culinary experience. Save room for one of the elegant desserts! Fun, food & spirits will greet you as you enjoy the balmy breezes and panoramic view of William’s Landing atop Blackwater Inn. Whether it’s for dinner or for a lighter fare, you can be assured of a pleasurable occasion.

Specialties: Unique Casual Dining, Unlimited Salad

Bar, Petite Dinners For The Light Appetite, Fingerling Catfish, Frog Legs, Alligator Tail, Grilled Quail, USDA Choice Beef & Fresh Seafood.

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OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

Blackwater Inn Hours:

Tues.-Thurs.

Fri. Sat. Sun. Mon.

4:30pm-9pm 4:30pm-10pm 11:30am-10pm 11:30am-9pm CLOSED

DINING GUIDE

Have BBQ. Will Travel.

catering@iservbbq.com· 877-766-6971

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

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PLAN AHEAD 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

Ongoing

BINGO AND POPCORN—

Bring $1.50 in quarters, nickels and dimes to play, popcorn provided. 3pm. Every Monday, Thursday and Friday. Eighth Avenue Adult Activity Center, 830 NE 8th Ave. ocalafl.org/recpark or 368-5517.

CONTRACT BRIDGE—

This is a free event with complimentary coffee, cards and

score sheets. 12:45pm. Every Tuesday. Eighth Avenue Adult Activity Center, 830 NE 8th Ave. ocalafl.org/recpark or 368-5517.

Ave. ocalafl.org/recpark or 368-5517.

PINOCHLE—Enjoy a game of

Florida Horse Park is joining forces with Team Resolute LLC members David Eldredge and Lauren Proctor-Brown to bring polo back to the Florida Horse Park. Chukkers are held Mondays and Wednesdays at 4pm through March, with matches and additional practices held dependent on the park’s schedule. teamresolutepolo.com or 307-6699.

strategy in teams of two, three, or four. This event is free with complimentary coffee. 9am.

Every Wednesday and Friday.

Eighth Avenue Adult Activity Center, 830 NE 8th Ave. ocalafl. org/recpark or 368-5517.

KARAOKE & OPEN MIC—

Come ready to sing, dance or spectate! Instruments welcome.

2pm. Every Friday. Eighth Avenue Adult Activity Center, 830 NE 8th

Through April 26

POLO AT THE PARK—The

Through May 21

HEALTH & WELLNESS SERIES—Are you ready to take

your health by storm? Come to these new speed learning and interactive health sessions sponsored by Walgreens.

Register one week prior to program. Eighth Avenue Adult Activity Center. 830 NE Eighth Ave. Thursdays, 9-11am. March 19: Blood Pressure Screenings, April 16: Senior Vaccination Awareness and Pneumonia Shots, May 21: Summer Heat Awareness.

Through May 24

FLAMENCO:FROM SPAIN TO THE US—An in-

OCALA CIVIC THEATRE NEEDS YOUR HELP! March 29-April 2 The OCT will attempt to break the Guinness World Record for the “Longest Continuous Theatrical Performance” with a 79-hour theatrical marathon. The world record attempt will begin on Sunday, March 29 at 7pm and will end at noon on Thursday, April 2. An audience of at least 20 people must be in attendance at all times, so OCT is seeking groups to sign up for shifts as audience members. To participate, call 2362851, x108.

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depth and multi-dimensional examination of the history and culture of Flamenco dance and music. Appleton Museum. appletonmuseum.org or 291-4455.

Through June 21

PHOTOGRAPHS BY BILLY JOE HOYLE—Photographer

Billy Joe Hoyle has spent the last two decades traveling the world and documenting diverse customs, beliefs, and lifestyles. Appleton Museum. appletonmuseum.org or 291-4455.

March 6

FIRST FRIDAY ART OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

WALK—Enjoy an evening

of art, live performances, art activities, and downtown shops and restaurants. Pick up your map on the square and take a self-guided tour of local artists.

6-9pm. Historic downtown Ocala.

March 7

HABITAT OCALA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL—

Over 230 vendors, with a kid zone, car show, pie eating contest, and pet contest, as well as live bands, entertainment, strawberry treats, and flats of strawberries available for purchase. 9am-5pm. McPherson Complex. habitatocala.org.

CELESTIAL REFLECTIONS—Join the

Ocala Symphony Chorus and members of the Ocala Symphony Orchestra for a program conducted by OSO Chorus Director Joshua Mazur. $15-35. 3pm. Reilly Arts Center. reillyartscenter.com or 351-1606.

YOUTH CONCERT—Sun

Country Dance Theatre presents their “12th Annual Spring Youth Concert”, featuring the original story ballet, “Alice’s Adventures.” $12. 4pm. The Phillips Center, Gainesville. performingarts.ufl. edu or 800-905-2787.

NAREK HAKHNAZARYAN—One

of the finest cellists of his generation. Narek will be joined by frequent collaborator Noreen Polera, a pianist who ranks among the most highly regarded chamber artists performing today. $35. 2pm & 7pm. The Phillips Center, Gainesville. performingarts.ufl.edu or 800905-2787.

FREE FIRST SATURDAY—

Enjoy the permanent collection galleries and special exhibitions, all free! 10am-5pm. Appleton Museum. appletonmuseum.org.

Presented By

March 11

COFFEE WITH THE CONDUCTOR—Together you

will take a closer look at how the pieces and composers are connected, crafted, and the real stories behind the music. This is an opportunity to connect to the music before enjoying the pieces live on March 21st and 22nd at the Orchestra’s “The Life and Times of Beethoven” concert weekend. Admission to the talk and coffee is free! 10am. Reilly Arts Center. reillyartscenter.com or 351-1606.

JIM BREUER—One of the

most recognizable comedians in the business, known for his charismatic stage antics, deadon impressions, and familyfriendly stand-up, returns to the Reilly. $20-45. 7:30pm. Reilly Arts Center. reillyartscenter.com or 351-1606.

AARON DIEHL TRIO—His

meticulously thought-out performances, collaborations, and compositions are a leading force in today’s generation of jazz contemporaries. $35-50.

7pm & 9pm. The Phillips Center, Gainesville. performingarts.ufl. edu or 800-905-2787.

HANDS-ONLY CPR FOR SENIORS—Be the difference

for someone you love. $5.

10am-12pm. University Center, Building 20 at the College of Central Florida. Register at seniorlearners.org or call 239-8780.

NATIONAL NUTRITION MONTH COOKING DEMONSTRATION—Come

and explore some new recipes, new ingredients, and walk away saying “if it tastes good, it is good for you.” 10:30am11:30am. Senior Wellness Community Center, second floor. ocalahealthsystem.com or 401-1338.

March 12

AN EVENING WITH KENNY G—Hear the Grammy-

award winning, smooth-jazz saxophonist in an intimate performance. 7:30pm. Reilly Arts Center. reillyartscenter.com or 351-1606.

March 27 & 28 Friday & Saturday at 7:30pm Gates Open at 5:30pm

OFF YOUR ROCKERS SENIOR SOCIAL—Come

Southeastern Livestock Pavilion Ocala, Florida

Presented By

Presented By

dressed to impress and dance the afternoon away while enjoying good music and meeting new friends at this newly themed event sponsored

by Humana. $3. 1-3pm. Eighth Avenue Adult Activity Center. 830 NE 8th Ave. ocalafl.org/recpark or 368-5517.

Maarcrhch2727& & M 2828 Presented By

Friday & Saturday Friday & Saturday at at 7:30pm 7:30pm Gates Open at 5:30pm Gates Open at 5:30pm

Southeastern Livestock M arcOcala, h2 7 &Pavilion 28 Florida Southeastern Livestock Pavilion Ocala, Florida

Friday & Saturday at 7:30pm Gates Open at 5:30pm

THE FINEST HOURS:THE TRUE STORY BEHIND THE US COAST GUARD’S MOST DARING SEA RESCUE—

Southeastern Livestock Pavilion Ocala, Florida

Michael Tougias, co-author of “The Finest Hours,” will use slides of the storm, the sinking tankers, the rescues, the victims, the survivors and the heroes to tell the story of this historic event. $5-10. 1-2:30pm. 8415 SW 80th St. Cypress Hall. masterthepossibilities.org or 861-9751.

March 27 & 28

Fri. & Sat. at 7:30pm Gates Open at 5:30pm Southeastern Livestock Pavilion • Ocala

OcalaRodeo.com

We love bugs

QUEEN OF PEACE CHURCH TAG SALE—A

little something for everyone.

Proceeds from the sale are dispersed to local charities. 9am2pm. Queen of Peace Parrish Hall. 6455 SW State Road 200.

873-1710 BEAST FEAST—A fun-filled

night benefiting many in Citrus County featuring all-you-caneat beasts: whole hogs, buffalo, gator ribs, ribs, brisket, chicken, seafood, and pulled pork. Also featured will be an open bar, craft beer, music, mechanical bull ride, and a laser target range, door prizes, and a 50/50 raffle. $65. 5-9pm. Rock Crusher Canyon. rockcrusherevents.com or 726-1231.

888-744-8499

to death.

With over 30 years experience, Brick City Pest Control serves Ocala and Marion County.

Whether your problem is with termites, ants, chinch bugs, bed bugs, or just garden-variety bugs, we’ll protect your home and family… guaranteed.

Call (352) 732-4244 for your free inspection, and we’ll love your bugs to death.

Rand Hollon Owner

Mar. 12-Apr. 5

FATHER OF THE BRIDE—

This heartwarming tale was immortalized first in the 1950 film version with Spencer Tracy and Elizabeth Taylor and again in

( 3 5 2 ) 7 3 2- 4 2 4 4 • w w w. b ri c kc i t y p e s t . c o m

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

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OCALA OPEN Charity Pro-Am – March 10, 2020 Pro Tournament – March 11–13, 2020 Candler Hills Golf Club hosts the Ocala Open Professional Tournament with a charity Pro-Am raising money for Hospice of Marion and Interfaith Emergency Services. To date the Ocala Open has raised over $663,064 for local charities.

1991 with Steve Martin. Say “I do” to this dearly beloved classic comedy! $27. 2pm & 8pm. Ocala Civic Theatre. ocalacivictheatre. com. or 236-2274.

March 13

CHANGES IN LATITUDES—

Recreates the Jimmy Buffett concert experience with amazing authenticity. $15-35.

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

AFTER DARK IN THE PARK MOVIE SERIES—Avengers:

Endgame. The movies are FREE and refreshments will be available for a small fee.

Remember to bring your lawn chairs and blankets! 8pm.

Tuscawilla Park. 800 NE Sanchez Ave. ocalafl.org/recpark or 368-5517.

March 14

BOSTON & STYX TRIBUTE—Two tribute shows

in one concert! $15-30. 7:30pm.

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

GROOVIN’ WITH GENE CORNISH OF THE RASCALS—A celebration of

the band’s music by a founding member. $24-28. 7pm. Circle

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

March 14-15

GARDEN SPRING FESTIVAL—With over 80

colored pencils to create depth and texture for a more vibrant image. $30. Wednesdays.

10am-12pm. University Center, Building 20 at the College of Central Florida. Register at seniorlearners.org or call 239-8780.

GRIEF CARE—Presented

March 19

March 20

HEALTH & WELLNESS SERIES—Are you ready to take

your health by storm? Come to our new speed learning and interactive health sessions sponsored by Walgreens.

Register one week prior to program. 9-11am. Eighth Avenue Adult Activity Center.

830 NE Eighth Ave. ocalafl.org/ recpark or 368-5517.

ANDREW COLLINS TRIO—A master of the

mandolin in the epicenter of Canada’s burgeoning acoustic roots music scene. $35-50.

7pm & 9pm. The Phillips Center, Gainesville. performingarts.ufl. edu or 800-905-2787.

by Hospice of Marion County.

Learn about the grieving process and take home suggestions for coping. 3-4pm. Monarch Center, 2895 SE 62nd St. hospiceofmarion.com or 873-7456.

PAULA POUNDSTONE—

Known for her smart, laughout-loud observational humor and spontaneous wit, she’s one of our country’s preeminent comedians. This performance may contain adult content. $3050. 7:30pm. The Phillips Center, Gainesville. performingarts.ufl. edu or 800-905-2787.

PARADE OF SENIOR SERVICES—Over 50 agencies

have partnered to provide literature and answer your questions about recreation, city, county, state and federal government services, health care, social services and more to seniors in Marion County. 10am-

gardening vendors, 12 nonprofit agencies, 9 food trucks, including Big Lee’s Barbeque and an event packed KidZone, there’s something for everyone. $2. 8am-4pm. Southeastern Livestock Pavilion.

March 15

ART GARFUNKEL—Come

hear and see this living legend up close and personal! $4095. 7:30pm. Reilly Arts Center. reillyartscenter.com or 351-1606.

March 18

HEALTH WORKSHOP—End

allergies and asthma. Presented

by Chiropractic USA. Light refreshments will be provided.

Space is limited, please call to reserve your space. 12:15pm.

Jasmine Plaza. 7668 SE 60th Ave., Ste 500. chiro-pros.com or 351-2872.

Mar. 18- Apr. 29

WATER COLOR—Learn

to combine water colors and

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

ART GARFUNKEL March 15 The Reilly Arts Center welcomes legendary performer Art Garfunkel, joined by his acoustic band.

The singer has made an indelible mark on the music world as both a solo artist and half of the unrivaled Simon & Garfunkel (“Bridge Over Troubled Water,” “Mrs. Robinson,” “The Boxer” and many more). He has also enjoyed a successful film career (“Carnal Knowledge,” “Catch 22”), published a memoir and a book of poetry, and released 12 solo albums (which included “All I Know,” “I Only Have Eyes For You” and more). Come hear and see this living legend up close and personal!

Small Town. Big Appetite.

March 25-29 Come taste what happens when local, national and international chefs, winemakers, farmers, ranchers, brewmasters and distillers converge in a small town for celebration of all things epicurean with a dose of southern hospitality.

Visit our website for more information and RESERVE YOUR SEAT!

www.OcalaCulinaryFestival.com

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

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Foodies Rejoice!

The seven signature events of the 2020 Ocala Culinary Festival.

March 25

WOMEN WINE WEDNESDAY—Join

this all-female culinary team as they deliver a multi-course dinner paired with a guided tasting by a representative of Caymus Vineyards, which will include the Caymus Cabernet Sauvignons as well as an introduction to the expanded portfolio of next-generation Wagner Family wines. $165. 6pm. Brick City Center for the Arts.

March 26

FLAVORS OF FLORIDA—Sample

delectable treats from ranch, sea, and farm amidst unique settings featuring food prepared at live-action stations and delight in handcrafted signature cocktails. Afterward, come together for a family-style dinner with only the finest fresh produce, seafood, and beef from Florida! The meal will be complemented with Florida beer pairings and wrapped up with desserts that conjure up sweet memories! $140. 6pm. Circle Square Cultural Center.

March 27

CAMBRIA WINE & CHEESE—Allow

a Cambria representative to take you on a four-course culinary journey, exploring expertly paired wine and cheeses by esteemed culinary chef and graduate of California Culinary Academy, Tracey Shepos Cenami. Each course, Cambria wines are paired with the artisan cheeses made at award winning creameries, along with locally sourced accoutrements. $25.

2pm. Trilogy Salted Brick.

UNA NOCHE EN ARGENTINA—

Urban Asado will bring their handcrafted Argentinean style grills and four chefs from the Jacksonville and St. Augustine area to prepare a fun and interactive grilling experience that will offer delicious options for both meat and vegetarian festival attendees. Wine and signature

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

cocktail options are included with ticket price. Bring your appetite and comfortable shoes for this outdoor event. Fair warning: Attendees may have a strong desire to tango. $90. 6-9pm. Tickets holders will be informed of the event location.

March 28

GRILL CLINIC—Enjoy what is sure to

be a delicious lunch prepared alongside grill superstars Jose Juarez and Rashad Jones. They’ll share some of their knowhow in a small group setting, with time to answer questions. $65. 11am. Trilogy Salted Brick.

FEAST AT THE FARM—Hosted at a

working thoroughbred farm, this multicourse dinner seated under the stars presents a unique opportunity to share in one of the festival’s most memorable meals, this year with Chef Cody and beverage director Daniel Bareswilt of CW’s Gin Joint in Tampa. Attire: Country chic. The venue is a working farm, so use care in selecting footwear that allows you to walk on grass and uneven pavement. $195. 6pm. Carolyn Wilson’s Farm 13800 NW Highway 225A, Reddick.

March 29

GRAND TASTING—The culmination

of the five-day festival, a casual affair that allows participants to enjoy live music, mingle with like-minded foodies, chefs, winemakers, mixologists, and culinary vendors. For one price, enjoy many choices of delicious food, wine, beer, and spirits. It’s a not-to-be missed event. $110. 11:30am-3pm. Bridlewood Farm, 8318 NW 90th Terrace.

2pm. College of Central Florida. ocalafl.org/recpark or 368-5517.

THE HOPPERS IN CONCERT AT COLLEGE ROAD—A family

ensemble that first began performing together in 1957. $10. 7pm. College Road Baptist Church. 237-5741.

March 20-22

WINE & SEAFOOD FESTIVAL—

Lakeridge wine, beer, soft drinks and a variety of tasty seafood specialties will be available for purchase, along with complimentary winery tours and tasting. $15. 10am-5pm. Lakeridge Winery. lakeridgewinery.com or 800-768-9463.

March 21-22

THE LIFE AND TIMES OF BEETHOVEN—Maestro Wardell

will dive into the life and times of Ludwig van Beethoven and celebrate the 250th year of his birth.

Separating myth from reality and everything in between, the Ocala Symphony Orchestra will be joined by the winners of its annual Young Artist Competition for one incredible concert! $15-35. Saturday 7:30pm, Sunday 3pm. Reilly Arts Center. reillyartscenter.com or 351-1606.

March 24

A HISTORIC EVENING WITH ANNE FRANK’S STEPSISTER EVA SCHLOSS—She’ll be traveling

from London to share her story of triumph and survival, a once-in-a-life opportunity to hear Eva’s holocaust story. $25. 7:30pm. The Phillips Center, Gainesville. performingarts. ufl.edu or 800-905-2787.

AN EYE TO THE FUTURE—

Join Dr. Hamed as he explores the aging eye including the latest advancements in eye care technology. 3-4pm. Senior Wellness Community Center. ocalahealthsystem.com or 401-1338.

March 27

GREASE SING-A-LONG-A!—The

WANT TO KNOW MORE? NOTE: Some events will sell out, so be sure to visit ocalaculinaryfestival.com before you go.

brand-new sing-along screening of the classic film starring John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John Dressing in a “Grease” theme is strongly encouraged and full audience participation is essential.

DON’T MISS THESE OCALA OPEN EVENTS:

M A O R P F Y T I R PO 020 A CH 2 N E P O A L A OC

M A R C H 10

M A R C H 11-13

The Charity Pro-Am Tournament held at Candler Hills Golf Club has raised over $663,064 since 2008. Proceeds benefit local charities, Interfaith Emergency Services and Hospice of Marion County.

For more information visit:

WWW.OCALAOPEN.COM To be a partner of next year’s tournament, please visit www.OcalaOpen.com

Candler Hills Golf Club • (352) 861-9712 8137 SW 90th Terrace Road, Ocala, FL 34481 Schedule your tee time online at www.CandlerHillsGolfClub.com

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

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#13549 - 3/20

local entertainment, delicious concessions booths, and a new children’s area. Saturday 9am-5:30pm, Sunday 12-5pm.

Downtown Gainesville on historic NE 1st Street. 352-336-2715.

March 29

VERONA QUARTET—This

outstanding ensemble is one of the most sought-after string quartets around the world. $2535. 2pm. The Phillips Center, Gainesville. performingarts.ufl. edu or 800-905-2787.

March 31

SOUTHEASTERN PRO RODEO March 27-28 Pro Rodeo action returns to the Southeastern Livestock Pavilion with the 27th Annual Southeastern Pro Rodeo on March 27 & 28, 2020. Get ready for two jam-packed performances filled with exciting competition in saddle and bareback bronc riding, tie down roping, steer wrestling, team roping, barrel racing, and the most dangerous eight seconds in any sport, BULL RIDING. $18. Gates open at 5:30pm, performances begin at 7:30pm. Southeastern Livestock Pavilion. ocalarodeo.com. $24. 7:30pm. Reilly Arts Center. reillyartscenter.com or 3511606.

March 28

UP, UP AND AWAY—Marilyn

McCoo and Billy Davis, Jr. are the voices, original stars, and lead singers of the legendary group The 5th Dimension and made “Up, Up and Away” and “Aquarius/Let the Sunshine In” into pop/soul classics. $3580. 7:30pm. Reilly Arts Center. reillyartscenter.com or 3511606.

CHARITY GOLF TOURNAMENT—

Registration begins at 7:30am followed by a shotgun start at 8:00am. Registration fee is $70 per person and includes complimentary morning coffee and donuts, golfers buffet lunch, and golf with cart. Stone Creek Golf Club. For tournament details

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and a registration form, contact Fred Roberts on or before March 16, 2020 by email to froberts7@ cfl.rr.com.

MARION COUNTY DAY—

Organizations from around the area will participate in telling Marion County’s story in a fun, informative and interactive way.

Stop by and enjoy food, games and more! 10am-2pm. McPherson Governmental Campus.

ZOSO—The Ultimate Led

Zeppelin Experience is set to perform the most accurate and captivating Led Zeppelin live show since the real thing. $2025. 6pm. Rock Crusher Canyon. rockcrusherevents.com or 7261231.

March 28-29

SPRING ARTS FESTIVAL—

Featuring fine arts and fine crafts artist booths from all over the country with two stages of live

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

GEORGE HINCHLIFFE’S UKULELE ORCHESTRA OF GREAT BRITAIN—These

“ukes” delight, inspire, and surprise audiences with their dizzyingly diverse repertoire and whimsical sense of humor. $2040. 7:30pm. The Phillips Center, Gainesville. performingarts.ufl. edu or 800-905-2787.

April 1

TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR DIABETES—A monthly

meeting that provides support, encouragement, and information to people with diabetes and their friends and families. 10:30am11:30am. Senior Wellness Community Center, second floor. ocalahealthsystem.com or 401-1338.

April 2

AFTER HOURS CONCERT AT THE APPLETON—The

Appleton welcomes back the popular duo Gosia and Ali for a performance showcasing the flute, acoustic guitar, and vocals. $5-$15. 5:30pm. Appleton Museum. appletonmuseum.org.

STEAK & STEAK DINNER—A night of good

food, live music, drinks, and the opportunity to make an impact in young people’s lives.

Rock Crusher Pavilion. $50.

6-10pm. Rock Crusher Canyon. rockcrusherevents.com or 726-1231.

EAST TO THE DAWN: THE LIFE OF AMELIA

EARHART—Susan Butler, who

authored the biography that the recent film “Amelia” was based on, will talk about Earhart’s life, the movie, and her probable end. $5-10. 1-2:30pm. 8415 SW 80th St. masterthepossibilities.org or 861-9751.

April 2-4

THEATRE FOR THOUGHT—This new series

will present internationallyacclaimed solo performers who engage serious subjects with humor, intelligence, and insight. $25. 7pm. The Phillips Center, Gainesville. performingarts.ufl. edu or 800-905-2787.

Apr. 2-May 7

SMARTPHONE 101—This

six-part series was developed to help the community learn the basics of any smart device.

Register one week before program starts. Bring your own smart device. Thursdays.

10-11am. Barbara Gaskin Washington Adult Activity Center.

210 NW 12 Ave. ocalafl.org/ recpark or 368-5517.

April 3

FIRST FRIDAY ART WALK—

Enjoy an evening of art, live performances, art activities and downtown shops and restaurants. Pick up your map on the square and take a selfguided tour of local artists.

6-9pm. Historic downtown Ocala.

April 3

BALLET & BEYOND!—

Bridging the past and the present, Dance Alive National Ballet presents the bravura classic “Don Quixote.” $20-40.

7:30pm. The Phillips Center, Gainesville. performingarts.ufl. edu or 800-905-2787.

THE ULTIMATE ROD STEWART EXPERIENCE—

Rob Caudill’s distinctive, naturally raspy voice sounds like the legendary Rod Stewart, and his range easily nails every high note from Stewart’s younger days. Circle Square Cultural

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Arts Center. reillyartscenter.com or 351-1606.

HEALTH WORKSHOP—

Bulletproof your low back.

Presented by Chiropractic USA. Light refreshments will be provided. Space is limited, please call to reserve your space. 12:15pm. Jasmine Plaza.

7668 SE 60th Ave., Ste 500. chiro-pros.com or 351-2872.

GILBERT GOTTFRIED April 17 After a few short years in New York City, he quickly became known around town as “the comedian’s comedian.” After spending several years mastering the art of stand-up comedy, producers of the legendary NBC late night comedy show “Saturday Night Live” hired him as a cast member. $15-45. 7:30pm. Reilly Arts Center. reillyartscenter.com or 351-1606.

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

April 4

FLEETWOOD MAX—An

authentic tribute to the worldfamous Fleetwood Mac. $1530. 7:30pm. Reilly Arts Center. reillyartscenter.com or 351-1606.

FREE FIRST SATURDAY—

Enjoy the permanent collection galleries and special exhibitions, all free! 10am-5pm. Appleton Museum. appletonmuseum.org.

WELCOME HOME VETERANS—Join Marion

County Veterans Services and Hospice of Marion County for a special veterans event. 10am.

Ocala/Marion County Veterans Memorial Park. 2601 SE Ft. King St. 671-8422.

April 5, 16, 19

SPRING CONCERT SERIES— The Central Florida

Master Choir will present its Spring Concert at 3pm on Sunday, April 5 at the Countryside Presbyterian Church, 7768 SW SR 200; at 7pm on Thursday, April 16, at the Reilly Art Center, 500 NE

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9th St; and at 3pm on Sunday, April 19, at the Dunnellon Presbyterian Church, 20641 Chestnut St, Dunnellon. The concert will include American spirituals, folk songs and Franz Schubert’s “Mass in B-flat Major.” The concert is free, although a free-will offering is requested. cfmasterchoir.com

April 6

WAITRESS—Meet Jenna, a

waitress and expert pie-maker who dreams of a way out of her small town and rocky marriage.

When a baking contest in a nearby county—and a satisfying runin with someone new—shows Jenna a chance at a fresh start, she must find the courage to seize it. $45-70. 7:30pm. The Phillips Center, Gainesville. performingarts. ufl.edu or 800-905-2787.

April 8

AN EVENING WITH TERRY BRADSHAW—Spend the

evening with the former NFL champion, film personality, and FOX NFL Sunday co-host as he entertains audiences with a talk and Q&A. VIP tickets include a meet-and-greet with Terry Bradshaw before the event at 5:30pm. $25-150. 6:30pm. Reilly

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

April 9

OFF YOUR ROCKERS SENIOR SOCIAL—Come

dressed to impress and dance the afternoon away while enjoying good music and meeting new friends at this new event sponsored by Humana. $3. 1-3pm. Eighth Avenue Adult Activity Center. 830 NE 8th Ave. ocalafl.org/recpark or 368-5517.

April 10

TURN THE PAGE—Tribute to

Bob Seger and the Silver Bullet Band faithfully recreates all the “classic” Bob Seger material. $22-28. 7pm. Circle Square Cultural Center at On Top of the World. csculturalcenter.com or 854-3670.

AFTER DARK IN THE PARK MOVIE SERIES—“Ralph

Breaks the Internet.” The movies are FREE and refreshments will be available for a small fee.

Remember to bring your lawn chairs and blankets! 8:15pm.

Jervey Gannt Recreation Complex. 2200 SE 36th Ave. ocalafl.org/recpark or 368-5517.

April 11

BRICK CITY BEER & WINE FESTIVAL—A full day of beer

and wine sampling, music, food trucks, and fun awaits in downtown Ocala under the beautiful oaks and shade of Citizens’ Circle. $35-50. 2-8pm.

Downtown Ocala.

April 16

HEALTH & WELLNESS SERIES—Are you ready to take

your health by storm? Come to our new speed learning and interactive health sessions

sponsored by Walgreens.

Register one week prior to program. 9-11am. Eighth Avenue Adult Activity Center. 830 NE Eighth Ave. ocalafl.org/recpark or 368-5517.

April 16-26

TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD—

Harper’s Lee’s beloved Pulitzer Prize-winning classic was a favorite of long-time Ocala Civic Theatre executive director Mary Britt, in whose memory this special production is dedicated.

This timeless tale of a family in small-town Alabama during the Great Depression is a powerful look at a community struggling with its beliefs on segregation, prejudice, and equality. $27. Ocala Civic Theatre. ocalacivictheatre. com. or 236-2274.

April 17-26

THE WOMEN BEHIND THE ART AND MUSIC—

Sara Satterfield will focus on visionary women who created masterpieces during the 18th, 19th and 20th centuries. $15.

Fridays. 10am-12pm. University Center, Building 20 at the College of Central Florida.

Register at seniorlearners.org or call 239-8780.

April 18

CHURCH YARD SALE—The

women of Grace Episcopal Church will hold their third annual yard sale at the parish hall. Many items will be available for purchase such as furniture, clothes, books, small appliances, toys, household goods, jewelry, and more. All donations will benefit women and children in the Ocala community. 8am-2pm.

510 SE Broadway Street. Contact Elaine Heitman, 347-2549 or write2elaine@cfl.rr.com.

HACKIN’ IT FOR HOSPICE—Chiropractic

USA presents its first annual charity golf tournament benefiting Hospice of Marion County. Candler Hills Golf Club. hospiceofmarion.com or 854-4840.

April 18-19

BLUES AT THE WINERY—

The area’s most talented blues musicians will perform on the outdoor stage as well as inside at the wine-and-cheese bar. $10.

10am-5pm. Lakeridge Winery. lakeridgewinery.com or 800-768-9463.

April 20

LIVING WILLS—Join Dr. David

Elliott for a presentation on the importance of living wills with a special focus on veterans. 10am.

The Elliott Center. 3231 SW 34th Ave. 873-7441

April 21

ADVANCE DIRECTIVES—

Join Dr. Mery Lossada, Chief Medical Officer at Hospice of Marion County, for a presentation of the importance of having advance directives.

8:30am. CEP Boardroom. 310 SE 3rd St. ocalacep.com.

April 23

10,000 MANIACS—The band

has covered plenty of ground in its 35-plus years, but their sound and spirit remain consistent. The lineup is still anchored by four of the six original members. $2570. 7:30pm. Reilly Arts Center. reillyartscenter.com or 351-1606.

April 24

DISCOVERY DATE NIGHT—

Enjoy space-themed fun and a planetarium show. Wine, snacks and free play in the exhibit. $15.

6:30-9pm. Discovery Center. 701 NE Sanchez Avenue. ocalafl.org/ recpark or 368-5517.

SHANA TUCKER—This

incredible cellist and singersongwriter weaves jazz, classical, soulful folk, acoustic pop, and a touch of R&B into a distinctive rhythmic tapestry. $35-50. 7pm & 9pm. The Phillips Center, Gainesville. performingarts.ufl.edu or 800-905-2787.

April 25

ARBOR DAY—Explore the

great outdoors at Earthfest. Gain a hands-on learning experience meeting local and regional organizations that promote conservation and sustainability.

Enjoy live music, food trucks and craft vendors lakeside in beautiful Tuscawilla Park. 9am2pm. Tuscawilla Park. 800 NE Sanchez Ave. ocalafl.org/recpark or 368-5517.

April 25-26

OCALA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA—Orchestral

music has the ability to explore the very depths and heights of life and this concert will find some of the most powerful, vital, and love-filled music imaginable, including pieces by Richard Strauss and Tchaikovsky. $15-35. Saturday 7:30pm, Sunday 3pm. Reilly Arts Center. reillyartscenter.com or 351-1606.

April 27

SENIOR FISHING DERBY—A

Tuscawilla. Dress comfortably, bring your sunscreen, and fishing poles, as lunch, prizes, and bait will be provided. Ages 50-plus.

9am-12pm. Tuscawilla Park. 800 NE Sanchez Ave. ocalafl.org/ recpark or 368-5517.

April 28

Join Dr. Mery Lossada, Chief Medical Officer at Hospice of Marion County, for a presentation on advance directives, living wills, and DNRs. 2pm. University Center, Room 112 at the College of Central Florida. Register at seniorlearners.org or call 239-8780.

May 1

FIRST FRIDAY ART WALK—

Enjoy an evening of art, live performances, art activities and downtown shops and restaurants.

Pick up your map on the square and take a self-guided tour of local artists. 6-9pm. Historic downtown Ocala.

few hours of fishing fun at Lake

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OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

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FREE HEALTH SEMINARS

All workshops will be held @ 12:15. A light lunch/refreshments will be provided.

Space is limited, so please call to reserve your seat.

May you live the kind of Good Life YOU imagined…

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As soon as you step into a Chiropractic USA office, you are greeted by caring professionals who will give you a tour of the facility. State of the art diagnostic tools allow accurate documentation of functional loss. There’s no guessing—you’ll see your progress in detailed before and after results. The doctors at Chiropractic USA are here to help you achieve optimum health through Natural Corrective Care.

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Ocala East

942 SE 17th Street Ocala Fl 34471

Dr. Renny Edelson