Sep/Oct 2019

TM

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!

SEP/OCT 2019

Retirement Redefined

The Doctor Is

In-Sane!

For local eye doctor Bill Ramsay, Halloween is a year-long process.

PLUS—

Weeki Wachee This old-school attraction is a retro delight.

Salted Brick

An inexpensively elegant menu at nearby Trilogy.

My Florida

Meet Melody Murphy, our newest columnist!

INSIDE: Woodstock | Master The Possibilities | Just My Type

OCALA’S

GOOD LIFE

SERVIN

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Ocala’s

GOOD LIFE

TM

SEP/OCT 2019

departments

features

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Good Team

22

A Reinvented Life

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The Editor’s Desk

BY AMANDA CLARK-RUDOLPH

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A Retro Delight

BY DEAN BLINKHORN

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The talented—and ghoulish—staff behind Ocala’s Good Life.

Old Florida memories. By Dean Blinkhorn

Good Start

Quick looks at our community. By Dean Blinkhorn

Out & About

A Woodstock celebration. By Steve Floethe

Just My Type

Outta line. By Mary Ellen Barchi

My Florida

A little bit about me. By Melody Murphy

Out & About

Master the Possibilities. By Steve Floethe

Recipes

Make your movie night pop. By Family Features

Good Eats

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The Doctor Is In-Sane!

BY KARI JAMES

COVER PHOTO BY JOHN JERNIGAN

Cuisine Queen

All the latest restaurant news. By Paula DiPaula

Dining Guide

Highlights of some of the area’s best restaurants.

Out & About Plan Ahead

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

This attraction got noticed well before a well-known mouse in Orlando. More than 70 years since—and an adoption into the state park system later—Weeki Wachee stands ready to enthrall visitors of all kinds to a more natural side of the Sunshine State.

on the cover

The Salted Brick is a real discovery. By Rick Allen

A Gentle Carousel party. By Steve Floethe

An On Top of the World resident learned a long time ago that life’s ups and downs keep you going. Harry Boyajian has been a photographer, a musician, and a salesman in a long and varied career. He wouldn’t have changed a thing.

Most people’s Halloween preparations involve picking up a couple bags of candy at the grocery store for potential trick-or-treaters. For local eye doctor Bill Ramsay, though, Halloween prep is a year-long process.

Puzzle Page

Spend a few minutes with the crossword or Sudoku.

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

5

“Rio”

Ocala’s

Confused about Medicare?

GOOD LIFE

TM

MAGAZINE

ocalasgoodlife.com SEP/OCT 2019 Publisher/Art Director Trevor Byrne

Let me explain the latest changes to Medicare and show you what it does and doesn’t cover.

trevor@ocalasgoodlife.com

Publisher/Editor Dean Blinkhorn

dean@ocalasgoodlife.com

Project Manager Cynthia Brown

cynthia@ocalasgoodlife.com

Writers

Rick Allen, Mary Ellen Barchi, James Blevins, Amanda Clark-Rudolph, Paula DiPaula, Melody Murphy

Photographers Steve Floethe John Jernigan Marci Sandler

Graphic Designers Mitch Carnes Wayne Smith

Proofreaders Karen Bradley Sally Tinkham

Advertising Sales & Marketing

Carol DeWitt

Gail Patel

Unit Sales Manager Insurance Agent

Kaye Schultz

Distribution

Jammie Crawford • Heidi Justice

Florida License Number W094702

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OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

MC4

Published bi-monthly by Good Life Publishing Inc. ocalasgoodlife.com • (877) 622-5210 TAGLINE & ARROW

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Unsolicited material will not be returned.

Publisher is not responsible for MOVING FORWARD advertisers’ claims or content of advertisements.

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Underwitten by Colonial Penn Life Insurance Company

(352) 427-4006 sally@ocalasgoodlife.com

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Direct: 352-775-7093 Office: 352-205-7032 Cell: 352-216-1680 gail.patel@bankerslife.com

This is a Medicare Supplement Insurance solicitation. An Insurance agent/producer may contact you.

Medicare supplement insurance policies are underwritten by Colonial Penn Life Insurance Company. Colonial Penn, Bankers Life and their licensed agents are not connected with or endorsed by the US Government or the federal Medicare program. This policy has exclusions and limitations. For costs and complete details of the coverage, contact your insurance agent. Policy forms CPL-GR-A80 Plans A, B, F, FH, G, K, L, M, N. Bankers Life is the marketing brand of Bankers Life and Casualty Company, Medicare Supplement insurance policies sold by Colonial Penn Life Insurance Company and select policies sold in New York by Bankers Conseco Life Insurance Company (BLIC). BLIC is authorized to sell insurance in New York.

Sally Tinkham

(302) 377-9142 carol@ocalasgoodlife.com

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a spooky team staff & contributors—Halloween edition

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of Paula DiPaula’s idols is Carmen Miran1whoOne da, a Portuguese-born Brazilian samba singer was popular from the 1930s to the 1950s.

Her signature fruit hats and bombshell body will never be forgotten along with such greats as Marilyn Monroe, Jayne Mansfield, Mae West and more. Paula says she may not have the bombshell body but she definitely reflects the fun and irreverent side of these ladies. After all, how many women can say they got to nab Captain America?

Although Dean Blinkhorn and his family 2 haven’t celebrated Halloween in years, his daughter always enjoyed the holiday. Witches

always seemed to be her favorite costume, but an Edward Scissorhands one was the the most memorable, although she had to remove the signature appendages to enjoy her treats!

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Steve & Claudia Floethe love to dress up for Halloween. Last year, they went to friends’ party in Ocala as one another’s “better halves.”

The black and white coordinated costumes with black and white makeup would come together as they stood side by side as “halfs.” Their daugher Joanie did their makeup.

board box. Now, my family enjoys dressing up in parties as an adult dressed as characters such as themes and recently portrayed characters from Zorro and an angel. Though after several moves over the years, those photos are as misplaced as Scooby Doo. the Lost Ark, and not available at this time.

These days Carol DeWitt spends her HalHalloween is always a special day for Sally loweens being the “hand out the candy” girl.

Tinkham because it’s also her birthday. She No scary stuff! As a kid she couldn’t help thinking has a funny story about the year she dressed as trick or treating was like begging for food in the street. Yet, even as a teen, she spent some time a classic hobo and silently wandered through the “begging” on Halloween. Later, as a parent, the woods just outside of the perimeter of the bonfire party that her family was having. Of course none best part of the holiday was picking through her kids’ loot looking for the Baby Ruths, her all-time of them knew it was Sally, so some of them followed this suspicious character. Sally managed to favorite. sneak up on one of her teenaged granddaughters, Kaye Schultz wasn’t sure if she had any Hal- causing her to scream, jump, and run! When Sally removed her mask, everyone had a good laugh. loween photos, so she joked that since she just had her arm encased in a cast, that she would Marci Sandler’s favorite thing about Halmake a wonderful mummy this year. With a little help from Sally Tinkham (and a roll of toilet paloween is that someone is always having per), Kaye transformed into one of horror’s classic a party and she gets to see friends that she characters. Of course we all wish Kaye a speedy hasn’t seen in a while. It’s also a great excuse recovery, but you can be sure a little broken arm to eat lots of chocolate! But after her visit to isn’t going to slow her down!

Mexico last year, the Dia de Las Muertos has

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Trevor Byrne loves an excuse to dress up in costume, so he has dressed up pretty much every Halloween since he was a kid. For years, his When it comes to trick-or-treating, James go-to costume was Dana Carvey’s “Garth” charBlevins has been many things: He-Man, a acter in Wayne’s World. It was an easy way to get ninja, a dinosaur, Chuck Norris, and, at one point, people to laugh when he would do his best Garth Freddy Krueger (complete with a self-made glove impression, quoting scenes from the movie. Plenty of taped-on brittle oak twigs in place of knives). of “Party on!” and “Shwing!” could be heard at But after becoming a father, his favorite thing to Halloween parties he attended those years. be on Halloween suddenly became simply “a dad.” Carving jack-o’-lanterns with his young son For John Jerigan, it’s seeing the excitement Gavin when he was a little boy (now 16) has easof the kids in his neighborhood and their ily become his fondest memory of celebrating All costumes. He tells them, “Get as much candy as Hallow’s Eve (that and eating most of his candy you can with just one handful.” Except the big later that night after he had fallen asleep, for the kids that are too old to be trick or treating—they benefit of his teeth, of course.) only get one piece of candy!

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Amanda Clark-Rudolph contributes to variThe sad-looking child in the photo is a 5 ous magazines and blogs and runs her busi- 10 much younger version of Mary Ellen Barness, Write On Freelancing. She resides in Ocala chi. Dressed in her one and only store-bought with her husband, two sons, dog Ebony, and cat Hemingway. My Favorite Halloween Memories: One Halloween, my mom spent forever sewing a scarecrow costume so that I could be my favorite character from The Wizard of Oz. Another year I made a haunted house costume out of a card-

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costume, she posed obediently for her proud parents even though she hated the costume and was secretly relieved when it didn’t fit her anymore.

Sadly, she never got another one, and despite the trauma of having to wear the same costume every Halloween, she continued to enjoy Halloween

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

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really captured her imagination. It’s a beautiful holiday that honors lost ancestors, and the colorful art which accompanies the tradition is simply amazing.

The fall season is Cynthia Brown’s fa13 vorite time of the year. It means cooler weather, football, searching for the best local

corn mazes and festivals, costume planning, and the countdown to her family’s annual pumpkin carving contest (where everyone wins). And of course, pumpkin spice everything! Happy Fall!

One Halloween Rick Allen dressed as a 14 hooded faceless ghoul mannequin with a bowl of candy sitting on his lap. When kids would

try to take too many pieces, he’d gently slap their hand. One kid is still running.

For Wayne Smith (not pictured), his favorite 15 part of Halloween growing up was organizing all of the candy he’d collect trick-or-treating.

First, he separated the chocolate, sugar, no-brand terrible treats, wax lips, and pennies/toothpaste.

Then he gave his mom all of the Tootsie Rolls and Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups. Halloween taxes.

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9

the editor’s desk

by dean blinkhorn [dean@ocalasgoodlife.com]

Roadside Fun South Of The Border

S

everal times a year, the Blinkhorns would pack into the Winnebago to come see family in the Ocala area. The endless miles on I-95 were a continuous ribbon of asphalt that Mom would navigate from her captain-like perch behind the massive steering wheel while the kids would stretch out in the back for a succession of board games until we needed a quiet break with a few chapters from the latest Hardy Boys book. That is, until we started seeing those billboards for South of the Border.

The first kitschy roadside announcement was hours away from the at-the-time enormously popular roadside attraction so named because it was just over the North Carolina border heading south. From that point on, my brothers and I would cluster at the front of the camper and compete to be the first to spot the next billboard from that panoramic perch of wrapped glass and raised bucket seats.

We stopped Each one trumpeted some unique aspect of the faux-Mexican at every kind style of the collection of shops and of amusement small amusement park, often in rhyming couplets or a non-PC onepark and liner. We loved them all. roadside When we finally saw the exit, the one that would take us to this attraction you overhyped promised land in Dillon, could imagine. South Carolina, my brothers and I were beyond amped to play the arcade games, ride the carnival-like rides, and steer Mom and Dad to purchases that would usually get us some freebies, like cans of tennis balls, sports racquets, and baseball gloves.

We loved every second. They probably loved that we were getting out of the motor home for a minute.

The people behind South of the Border knew what they were doing by offering cheap gas, novelties for the kids, and lots of bulk-wrapped push items, kind of like an early Sam’s Club—if only Sam Walton had a giant bandito named Pedro as his mascot. It was the perfect halfway point for our family on our treks from Rhode Island to Sunny Florida.

But once we got there, we stopped at every kind of amusement park and roadside attraction you could imagine.

Of course we went to Disney World, Silver Springs, and SixGun Territory, but we also checked out Gatorland, Marineland, Rainbow Springs, and every aging structure advertising fresh Florida citrus, giant alligators, the U.S. Presidents cast in wax, or a live Bigfoot.

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OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

But one of our preteen favorites—I’m sure you can figure out why—was going to see the beautiful mermaids at Weeki Wachee Springs. The show was in the air-conditioning and featured a large viewing window to see the girls twirling around to old-timey music. We also loved the thenbrand new Buccaneer Bay, which was the perfect antidote to Florida’s summer heat. We’d spend hours going down the slides and splashing in the water. Again, I’m sure my parents were glad to just be out of the car.

We recently went back to Weeki Wachee, which you’ll read about in the pages to come, and I’m glad to see it still retains its retro charms. The park has been nicely maintained and everyone was so friendly, including our tour from John Athanason, an old friend and the park’s longtime public relations director. It was a great way to spend the afternoon.

We’ll definitely be back soon.

All the best,

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

What’s Dean Playing?

Seth MacFarlane, “Once In A While”—His latest love letter to Frank Sinatra won’t make you forget the source material, but this surprisingly lush and traditional collection contrasts his raunchier TV work delightfully.

Loretta Lynn, “Wouldn’t It Be Great”—Not sure how I missed this great record from last year, a collection of mostly new songs like “Ruby’s Stool” and “Lulie Vars,” a stark standard with a tragic twist.

“The Tough Blues Of John Brim”— Probably best known for “Ice Cream Man,” the regional Chicago blues hit that Van Halen covered on their massive debut, the rest of this collection reveals Brim’s true talents and that unmistakably sweet voice.

SEPT

AGES 50+

A N D

B E Y O N D

Up This Month!

CITY OF OC AL A

FOLLOW US ON

Unless otherwise noted, these events are all COMPLIMENTARY! BARBARA GASKIN WASHINGTON ADULT ACTIVITY CENTER 210 NORTHWEST 12 AVENUE | 352.629.8357 | GRACE BOWLING Tuesdays | Noon-2 p.m.

Let’s go bowling! $7 per person, which includes three games, shoes and transportation.

COFFEE, CONVERSATION & NEWS Mondays through Fridays 9-9:45 a.m.

Stop by for a cup of coffee, catch up on the news and meet new friends.

COMPUTER LAB Mondays through Fridays 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

A great way to spend the day, meet folks and surf the Internet!

BINGO Thursdays | 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Come play BINGO for fun!

FOREVER YOUNG FITNESS Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays 10-11 a.m. | 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

A great sit-down aerobic workout to the beat of the music.

FRIENDSHIP GARDEN CLUB Mondays through Fridays 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

EIGHTH AVENUE ADULT ACTIVITY CENTER 830 NORTHEAST EIGHTH AVENUE | 352.629.8545 | CONNIE BINGO AND POPCORN Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays 3:45-5:30 p.m.

Test your luck to win money and prizes and snack on popcorn!

CONTRACT BRIDGE Tuesdays | 12:45-4 p.m.

A trick taking card game with four players using a standard deck of cards.

GET CONNECTED Mondays through Fridays | June 4 until Aug. 31 | 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Who doesn’t love to play Checkers, Chess, Monopoly, Pokeno, Scrabble, Sorry, Dominoes, Wii Games and more?

GET CONNECTED Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays 3-4 p.m.

Pinochle, Euchre, Skip-Bo, Rummy, UNO, or Scrabble, Yahtzee, Chess, Dominoes, Rummikub, Checkers and more!

LINE DANCING Thursdays | 5-6 p.m.

Come out and learn the old and newest line dances! We have a BLAST and get a workout in too!

KARAOKE/OPEN MIC Fridays | 2-3 p.m.

Come sing and dance to all your favorite songs and hits!

PINOCHLE Wednesdays and Fridays 9 a.m.-Noon Played by two, three or four players with a deck of 48 cards. Beginners welcome!

352.368.5517 WE NEED VOLUNTEERS to coach, tutor, to help out at events and more. Background screenings conducted on all volunteers. Please contact Connie Carroll at 352.368.5504 for details.

BENEFITS CHECK-UP There are over 2,000 federal,

REJUVENATE WITH THE ARTS Tuesdays | 10 a.m.-Noon Design unique and collaborative creations in this workshop to renew and discover your artistic abilities. $5 per person.

STITCHERS’ CLUB Wednesdays | 9-11 am Embroidery, crocheting, knitting and more – we stitch it all! Learn new skills and techniques or improve your own.

Some materials provided but bring your own if you can.

TAP DANCING Fridays | 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Use your current tap dance skills or learn to tap dance to some of your favorite all time songs. Have a blast while getting a workout at the same time!

WOODCARVERS Wednesdays | 1-4 p.m.

Bring your own tools, wood and pattern. Share your ideas to display and sell your creations.

www.ocalafl.org/recpark state and private programs available to help pay for prescriptions, health care, utilities, taxes and more. Call 352.629.8545 for an appointment.

ELDER OPTIONS Call 8.300.96.ELDER for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) details for ages 60+.

SHINE (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders) Counseling and information provided to Medicare beneficiaries, caregivers and family members to assist in Medicare and health insurance issues such as prescription assistance, planning and long-term care insurance. Call 352.629.8545 to schedule an appointment.

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

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good start

12

Written & Compiled By Dean Blinkhorn

REMEMBER WHEN:

‘Elvis’ Comes Back To Ocala

I

n 1955 Elvis Presley performed at the Southeastern Livestock pavilion with Hank Snow for the WSM Grand Ole Opry All-Star Jamboree on May 10. Get this... Elvis wasn’t even the headliner! But after each performance his popularity began to soar.

To celebrate the event, Habitat for Humanity of Marion County will rewind the clock to 1955 for two spectacular performances of the songs Elvis sang back then, featuring award-winning Elvis tribute artist Cote Deonath, who was featured in the May/June issue of Ocala’s Good Life.

Friday night is “Elvis Remembered,” a show that will take you to pivotal moments in Presley’s life and the events that shaped him as a performer, including a recreation of the 1955 Ocala concert.

Saturday night is “Elvis Forever,” a performance that showcases some of Presley’s greatest moments on stage. It’s the songbook you know and love from the concerts that make you cheer: “Ocala 1955,” “The ‘68 Comeback Special,” “Elvis Gospel,” and “Aloha from Hawaii.” This action-packed show is a different take on Presley’s career.

WANT TO GO? Tickets start at $15. habitatocala.com/elvis-concert 351-4663

Signs, Signs, Everywhere Signs!

The Historic Ocala Preservation Society (HOPS) recently installed signs in the Tuscawilla Historic District.

The signs are mounted on a granite monument located near the sidewalk and describe the history of the homes.

“These signs will preserve our heritage and encourage walking tours throughout the neighborhood,” says Leon Geller, who purchased a sign at his recently renovated home. A total of 23 signs have already been installed in the Ocala Historic District.

WANT ONE? Call HOPS at 351-1861.

Elizabeth Wray’s house is one of the 23 homes which have installed one of the new HOPS signs.

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

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good start PET OF THE MONTH:

Oscar

Who: This dachshund, 14, still acts like a puppy and loves to play! He lost his “pet parent” and is looking for a permanent home.

82

The age when Ben Franklin finally retired from public service.

Source: homeseniors.org

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.

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

Need A Job? Like To Talk?

Are you looking for flexible, parttime work, now that you’ve retired?

DialAmerica, one of the nation’s largest privately held teleservices companies, reopened its call center in Ocala and is looking to hire up to 100 full-time and part-time positions. No experience is necessary, and DialAmerica is offering new employees free training and materials to become a licensed health insurance agent.

WANT TO KNOW MORE? careers.dialamerica.com 282-3677

Silver River Museum To Expand An exhibit of prehistoric dugout canoes created by the Florida Museum of Natural History is now getting a permanent home at the Silver River Museum. A new wing is planned to showcase the rare collection, which was discovered by a local high school teacher and his students more than two decades ago. Most of these canoes are more than 5,000 years old. A private donation of $350,000 from the Felburn Foundation will establish this large exhibit, called “Dugout Canoes: Paddling Through The Americas,” to be on permanent display.

WANT TO GO? The museum is open to schoolchildren during the week and is open to the public on the weekends. Call 236-5401 or visit silverrivermuseum.com for hours and information.

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.

FLORIDA BAR BOARD CERTIFIED ELDER LAW ATTORNEY

J. Warren Bullard, Esq.

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

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good start A GOOD LAUGH:

My parents had a TV like this:

I remember because

I was the remote!

+

Perfect For Anyone

AARP, the Florida Department of Elder Affairs, and Marion Senior Services recently hosted a press conference with Mayor Kent Guinn, Commissioner Michelle Stone, and other agefriendly community advocates to announce that Marion County and the City of Ocala have been designated as “age-friendly” through AARP’s Network of Age-Friendly Communities. The initiative is a collaborative effort where communities act to ensure that they are places where everyone can stay active, engaged, and healthy, especially as our residents age. In April, Governor Ron DeSantis, DOEA Secretary Richard Prudom, AARP CEO Jo Ann Jenkins, and AARP Statewide Director Jeff Johnson announced Florida as the first state in the south—as well as the largest state—to achieve age-friendly status.

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OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

THE BOOK NOOK:

‘They Can Do Anything’

O

ne local woman’s new children’s book about a tiny squirrel is meant to inspire big dreams.

Marylea DiRupo is a local author and healer whose recent book, “Arthur… the Squirrel Who Was Afraid of Heights: A Life Lesson,” came about when she was literally looking out the window of her Ocala home.

She saw a squirrel dancing around in the tree outside and started wondering what was causing him so much concern.

She thought he looked worried and his hesitation made her start thinking of a possible narrative.

After about “two months or so” Marylea had given him a name, added some thoughtful friends, and had created a story that needed to be told.

Arthur falls from the nest after a run-in with a large hawk and finds that he’s now terrified to climb the trees. Not only that, but while running after some birds, he becomes lost, hungry, and scared. Along the way, he meets Chip, a bluebird who represents wisdom, and Maribelle, the most amazing butterfly who represents spirit. Together, they vow to help Arthur find his parents, and in doing so, help Arthur to face and overcome his fears.

An early reader had wonderful things to say about the final, published version.

“I really enjoyed reading your story about Arthur the Squirrel,” wrote Michael Walker. “It takes an old soul to create beautiful images and you’ve created much to inspire me. The photos are so vivid and bright. Great work!”

His kind words touched Marylea and illustrator Irene Schilizzo.

“Everyone is having problems in the world today, but children need to have that security,” says Marylea. “If they believe in themselves and believe in the goodness of others, they can do anything.”

WANT TO BUY A COPY? Marylea is scheduling local book signings for the coming months, but the book is currently available through online booksellers and Amazon.

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Ann Kw

OUT & ABOUT

5 Joe Brown, Tammy Jenkins 5 Margaret Martino, Jim & Coby Fournier, Linda Jones

5 Carol & Chuck Savage

Woodstock Celebration

5 Judy & Dennis Meunier

It was a chance to relive a piece of history: The 50th Anniversary of Woodstock. Many of those who turned out at the Reilly Arts Center August 1st came decked out in 1960s hippie wear to hear the Paisley Craze Band pay tribute to the music of Creedence Clearwater Revival, the Grateful Dead, Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin and others.

5 Joyce & Fred Massa

Photos By Steve Floethe

4 Starr Helms, Pat Jocelyn, Leah Turano

5 Jan Butterfield, Martha Cieplinski, Jacqua Ballas

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5 Dr. Lee & Susan Kierstein OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

5 Jake & Susan Pyne, Don Lamb

SERVICES INCLUDE:

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Urban Chatter

Work by Sharon Kerry-Harlan | Through October 20 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

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OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

19

just my t y pe

20

by Mary Ellen Barchi [maryellen@ocalasgoodlife.com]

What I Learned From Line Dancing

D

id you ever see old newsreel footage of armies marching en masse in exact precision as if thousands of bodies were moving as one? An awesome sight, to say the least, one probably meant to intimidate the enemy.

But I can’t help wondering how many hours of practice went into guaranteeing that not a foot was out of step.

I recently attended a line dancing class for fun and exercise. Though not expecting to achieve military precision with the rest of the class, I had hoped for something close to it. And although I didn’t crush anyone’s toes in the process, I was unprepared for my disappointing level of success.

Now I’m speaking for myself because just about everyone else seemed to know what they were doing. I always liked to dance, and though admittedly out of practice, I was sure I could quickly master the routines. Each step was demonstrated to the class, and we practiced until we felt confident to do it with the music. That’s when—like a cell phone call—the connection between my brain and my feet was dropped.

And as our instructor called out the steps, I felt like a shy and nervous debutante at her first cotillion with an empty dance card.

“Turn left!” she shouted, repeatedly. “I am turning left,” I thought. At least it felt like a left. “No, your other left,” she repeated as I continued to turn

Though not expecting to achieve military precision, I had hoped for something close to it.

in the wrong direction. “Do you drive?” she finally asked, good naturedly, assuming how could I since it clearly looked like I didn’t know the difference between a left and a right turn.

“Not anymore,” I answered in a self-deprecating manner to lighten the mood and decided to sit that one out. For the record, I do know left from right.

But after turning while going around in a circle, one tends to become slightly disoriented, or just plain dizzy! And as I watched the routine continue without me, I discovered that there are different types of line dancers.

THE FREE SPIRIT: This type adds their own spin to the dance, and no matter what they do, always ends up right back in step with the rest of the group.

THE PERFECTIONIST: I hate this dancer.

They’re never out of step, and they make it look easy.

THE DIFFERENT DRUMMER: Their dance bears no resemblance to what everyone else is doing, and they don’t care.

THE EXHIBITIONIST: This dancer is the Free Spirit and Perfectionist rolled into one, which makes me hate them even more.

THE DETERMINED: This dancer never gets it right no matter how hard they try, but just keeps going anyway.

“Caught in the Act,” “Beer for My Horses,” “The Electric Slide,” and “Ooh Poo Pah Doo” are just a few names of the routines we learned—or tried to learn in my case. And with moves like grapevine, sailor, kick, rock, sway, shuffle, slide, hitch, and cross right over left—there’s that pesky left and right again— it’s easy for the inexperienced to easily fall out of line.

So what did line dancing teach me? First, I never would have made it in the military. Remember that precision thing? Second, listen to your instructor. He or she might be the only one who knows what they’re doing. Third, don’t copy the person next to you. They can be as confused as you are. Last, but not least, it’s fun, so just keep dancing.

Correct steps or not.

Follow Mary Ellen Barchi on her blog, fromawriterspov.blogspot.com, and on Twitter: @writer_mebarchi OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

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22

GOOD NEIGHBORS: HARRY BOYAJIAN

A Reinvented Life An On Top of the World resident learned a long time ago that life’s ups and downs keep you going. Harry Boyajian has been a photographer, a musician, and a salesman in a long and varied career. He wouldn’t have changed a thing.

BY AMANDA CLARK-RUDOLPH

Y

ou know how Forrest Gump met all those amazing people and completed one incredible event after another? That’s what I thought of when speaking with this amazing entertainer, photographer, and veteran.

But unlike the movies, Harry Boyajian is incredibly genuine. I had the honor to follow up with him and his wife, Donna, OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

in their home in On Top of the World, and although Donna was adamant that this was all Harry’s story, she’s a huge part of it, too. The love and respect they had for each other was evident as Donna sat with Harry on the couch, her bare feet nudging him as he expanded on his emotional stories that could quickly fill a paperback memoir.

However, for the sake of this article,

I’m condensing his narrative into sections. You see, as Harry says, he’s always reinventing himself, and through these snippets of his life, you’ll understand what that means.

WHEN I FIRST SAT DOWN to write this piece, I was hung up on the chronologicality of it all, but Harry’s words echoed in my mind: “I’m concerned with the details, not the order.” That stuck with me, and I realized that Harry’s story has less to do with a timeline than it does with the interwoven themes that illustrate the lessons of an incredible and constantly reinvented life.

So let’s start with his first love (after Donna, of course): photography.

Pictures of birds, ships, and skies fill Harry’s living room.

“Photographing birds is a lot easier than photographing people,” Harry says, “they don’t complain as much.”

I could have spent all day analyzing the works and for good reason— Harry’s photography isn’t just a hobby.

He once had his own studio, photographed weddings full time, and has works that appear in galleries.

When asked how he got into photography, he told me it started in junior high around 1956. His gym teacher taught a summer photography class and asked Harry to join.

“And,” Harry shares, “I just fell in love with it.”

He recalled bringing his Brownie camera on vacation to Cape Cod where he enthusiastically snapped pictures of lighthouses and monuments, but photography didn’t become a steady part of his life until leaving college early to join the Navy. There he took advantage of the duty-free camera equipment and snapped beautiful photos of Puerto Rico.

Mentioning the Navy sparks another memory, and Harry veers away from photography for a moment to tell an emotional story about the Gemini 9A spaceship’s recovery mission, when he was serving on a ship called the USS Wasp.

“We all gathered for a service on deck because everyone thought the astronauts were lost.” Harry tells me

that he remembers hearing one sailor sing “The Battle Hymn of the Republic” and then being jolted by the sonic boom. Harry’s eyes well up as he expresses the moment when he looked up to see the parachutes gliding down.

Astronauts Thomas Stafford and Gene Cernan had made it. “Powerful,” Harry says as he speaks. “Powerful,” he repeats. Harry’s sensitivity resonates throughout the interview. Then, after pausing for a minute, Harry revisits his journey into photography, which also involves technology.

TURNS OUT, computers were a big part of Harry’s life, too, and he held numerous tech jobs. While working with Burroughs Corporation, an employee asked him to photograph her wedding.

He did, and after the client provided a referral, business took off. Harry decided to completely self-teach himself and study up on wedding photography.

“Weddings are predictable sequences—it’s not rocket science,” he tells me. “You get ready, go to the church, and then have the reception.”

Soon after, Harry decided to walk away from his computer job at MasonNeilan to start up a studio in the early ‘80s. He had freelancers who worked for him, and his business would sometimes photograph an impressive 13 weddings a weekend. Harry himself has photographed over 3,500 weddings.

Unfortunately, a couple of unlucky business decisions caused him to close the studio, resulting in a stressful time for Harry and his family. He ended up taking a break from photography until earning a position for LifeTouch in 2000 where he photographed church

“Photographing birds is a lot easier than photographing people. They don’t complain as much.”

—Harry Boyajian directories. That ended up being his last job before retiring in 2011.

ANOTHER HUGE ASPECT of Harry’s life involves music. Harry discovered his musical talents through the trumpet in grade school. He was even a member of his high school jazz and marching band.

And, get this, he played for Les and Larry Elgart as a fill-in and auditioned for Stan Kenton’s orchestra to replace Maynard Ferguson. Harry also rocked his trumpet in the Navy where he was part of a swing band, then retired the instrument after leaving the service.

However, this wasn’t the end of Harry’s musical career. One evening

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

23

after picking up Donna from a charity event at the local mall, he informed her of his “scheme” to buy a keyboard.

Donna agreed as long as it was something she “didn’t have to dust.” They went to the keyboard store that night.

He was 60 when he self-taught himself to play the instrument. He loved entertaining others, but in 2014, he had a stroke that left him unable to play with his right hand.

Harry didn’t give up. No, instead, he reinvented himself once again.

Using a laptop for background music, he focused on his singing. Harry entertained at assisted living homes, churches, and a restaurant in Fort Myers (where he once resided) and later in Ocala, including Brentwood, Life Care Center of Ocala, and Bridgewater. He still performs for the community, and you might hear him belting out songs

by Frank Sinatra, Bryan Adams, Dean Martin, or Kenny Chesney. He knows them all.

sylvania as a branch manager. There, he took the division from 96th to 2nd place. Unsurprisingly, he received the “Manager of the Year” award. Twice.

When asked, “How do you sell all of this stuff?” He responds, “Every salesman does his pitch in the living room, but I did it in the kitchen. Pretty soon you’re eating cookies, and you’re no longer a stranger. You’re family.”

Something else Harry did differently was coming back for the installation, and admirably, he was never high-pressure.

“Most sales associates defend the price,” he offers. “But you never defend the price—you acknowledge it.”

His business quotes are clever and inspiring, so it makes sense that he used to present at sales seminars.

Yes, Harry was a motivational public speaker, too.

In another twist, while working

IT’S THEN HARRY VEERS AWAY from the arts to discuss another surprising aspect of his life: sales. One major theme with Harry is persistence, a characteristic that served him well throughout his sales career.

Harry first ventured into sales while studying at Northeastern University in Boston. There he saw an ad to sell encyclopedias and make $500 a week. He enthusiastically took the job and did so well that his father thought he was doing something illegal. Harry’s laughs turn serious as he notes that this was a dangerous time to be a door-todoor salesman because it was when the Boston Strangler was causing fear in the area.

Later, Harry was adamant to get a job for the company that was responsible for all of Sears home improvements.

He told the manager that he wouldn’t stop calling until he was hired. Eventually he was.

Harry ended up making a quota in six months, which typically took a year. His efforts even won him a trip to Cancun. The company eventually transferred and promoted him to Penn-

24

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

for this company, they encountered legal challenges, were forced to close unexpectedly, and he was responsible for telling all of the employees to pack up because they lost their jobs. This all happened in less than two days. Harry takes a breath and says, “That was the hardest thing I ever did.”

Around that time, Harry had forgotten about a resume he’d posted online and he received a call from the photography company Lifetouch. He says that job “saved” him.

“All these experiences made me better at relating to people,” he says, “and made me a better photographer.”

In many ways, life comes back full circle. According to Harry, the people within our stories shape us and make the narrative come alive.

So who are the key people in your story? And when should you consider reinventing yourself once again?

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My Florida

By Melody Murphy [melody@ocalasgoodlife.com]

Putting Down Roots

F

all is a new beginning. Students are back in school. At Ocala Civic Theatre, where I work full-time in marketing, it’s a new theatrical season. This column is a new beginning as well, so I’d like to introduce myself.

I’m a native Floridian who’s lived in the Sunshine State her entire life and Ocala for 31 years.

How Floridian am I? I grew up with orange trees and gators literally in my back yard. I once worked for Disney World. Publix and I share Lakeland as a birthplace. My great-grandfather was a Cracker cowboy who annihilated rattlesnakes with his shotgun on horseback in his strawberry fields. I saw the vapor trail of the Challenger explosion with my own eyes. I remember Cypress Gardens and I miss it. I swim regularly in both the Gulf and the Atlantic.

I let lizards live in my house because they eat the bugs. When I cross the Suwannee River, I whistle the state song. Key lime juice and saltwater run through my veins. Florida Man has nothing on me.

I attended Osceola Middle School, Forest High School, CFCC (now CF), and FSU en route to my bachelor’s degree in journalism from UF. From arts to agriculture, I’ve written for half a dozen Ocala magazines over the past 20 years, which is how long I’ve had the pleasure of knowing editor Dean Blinkhorn, who gave me my first freelance job right out of college.

I clearly remember the morning we moved to Ocala. While waiting on the moving van, I picked

When we put down roots in a place, it’s because we like what the acorns of decades ago have grown up to be.

26

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

up a copy of the Ocala Star-Banner. The trajectory of my adult life—music, theater, and journalism— was prophesied in one gesture as I unfolded the Arts section.

The first story I read was about the newly constructed Ocala Civic Theatre building, which would be opening soon in its new location. I thought, “Theater… that sounds fun.”

Turns out, it is. I’ve performed at OCT for 26 years, ever since I had braces and wore sunflowerprint overalls and drove my mother’s 1988 Ford Aerostar minivan to rehearsals. I’ve also worked there for 11 years.

What’s it like to be involved with an organization for so long? One day I got a phone call from a young woman who wanted to enroll her son in classes.

When she gave her name, I realized I’d babysat her as a child. I catch myself saying things like “I remember when you were born” to college students and “I remember you playing with paper dolls” to mothers of toddlers.

I could easily be the mother of some of my coworkers. That’s unsettling. Just like when I go to Publix and hear the soft harmonies of Wilson Phillips as the score to my grocery-shopping and realize that the pop hits of my youth are now the “Easy Listening of Yesteryear” playlist. The soundtrack of my formative years has a Muzak remix. That’s surreal.

Thirty years ago, I first walked under the sycamores on the old Forest campus. I’ve looked to them ever since to let me know fall is coming. When their leaves turn bronze and the raintrees on Fort King turn golden, it’s time to head to Publix for scuppernongs and a chorus of “Hold On.” We close this season at OCT with “Brigadoon.”

Live in a place long enough and it feels like the village where time stands still. Then you look at a tree from your youth and realize how much time has passed, and how much has changed.

Trees mark time. We plant them for future generations, knowing we’ll never sit in their shade. That’s how it’s supposed to be. When we put down roots in a place, it’s because we like what the acorns of decades ago have grown up to be. That’s a good life.

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OUT & ABOUT

5 Bert Lamothe

5 Sharon Thomas Duca

5 Char Leasor, Cookie Daniels

Master the Possibilities Fall Term Master the Possibilities, a not-forprofit lifelong learning center, unveiled their list of Fall Term courses at the Circle Square Commons Town Center in August. It was an amazing turn out. Hundreds of people flocked to the newly renovated center to check out course offerings, meet with instructors and register for courses at the afternoon-long event.

Photos By Steve Floethe

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Photos: Courtesy Weeki Wachee

DAYCATION—WEEKI WACHEE

‘A Retro Delight’

By Dean Blinkhorn

This attraction got noticed well before a well-known mouse in Orlando. More than 70 years since—and an adoption into the state park system later—Weeki Wachee stands ready to enthrall visitors of all kinds to a more natural side of the Sunshine State.

30

WHY GO? Weeki Wachee, one of Central Florida’s original tourist attractions, is a retro delight. Spend the day kayaking its crystal-clear namesake river, bring the grandkids for a day at Buccaneer Bay, or enjoy a leisurely stroll through its exhibits and world-famous mermaid shows. An added bonus is that it’s a little over an hour from most parts of Marion County.

WHAT TO DO: The mermaid show is the centerpiece of the park. They swim in and out of the underwater “stage,” which is actually in the spring itself, as the audience watches behind

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

a panoramic series of clear glass. The mermaids dance to different songs and tell stories of the history of the park, all while wearing their oversized tails and a bikini top and breathing through a tube that founder Newt Perry designed specifically for these synchronized theatrical productions. The mermaids were trying out a new show the day we were there and it was a fun way to start our day at the park. It had a refreshingly wholesome and Andrews Sister-like vibe, much appreciated by the parents and their children, especially all the little girls who probably could imagine themselves in the water alongside them,

The mermaid show is the centerpiece of the park. twirling their tails and watching their hair flit in the currents.

The River Boat Cruise is a gentle 25-minute down-and-back on the Weeki Wachee River. The website description mentions— but doesn’t promise—river wildlife like “nesting bald eagles, turtles, blue heron, wild turkey, deer, and colorful fish of all sizes.”

If you get lucky, it continues, “Your fascinating expedition may take you right alongside endangered West Indian manatees.”

Well, on our trip, we didn’t see any of these except for the turtles.

Lots of turtles. Still, it was great to get out on the river to look around, except I do wish the ride was longer. Everyone was really getting into it just as we had to

turn around.

The park is currently renovating the outdoor amphitheater where the animal shows will resume. Until then, park guests will see various staff members holding the animals for a more one-on-one interaction. Watching the little kids as they see a baby alligator or a turtle up close never gets old.

INSIDER TIPS: According to John Athanason, the park’s longtime marketing and public relations director who has worked with celebrities like Jimmy Buffett, Paris Hilton, Larry the Cable Guy, and Jack Hanna, there are a few keys to a successful day. “Sign up for the river cruise immediately upon entering the park,” he advises. “And arrive early.” He also suggests you attend the first mermaid show since they’re in the

actual spring and can be affected by weather concerns at any time, especially lightning.

WHERE TO EAT: The on-site snack pavilion is surprisingly good. They have tasty prepackaged sandwiches and salads that will certainly do the job. Howev-

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

31

er, if you plan ahead and don’t mind a slight detour, I have two other options for you to consider.

You’ll probably pass through Brooksville, so a diversion to the Florida Cracker Kitchen—which is open for breakfast and lunch seven days a week, by the way—should definitely tempt your itinerary. Try a hearty breakfast with their signature tomato gravy, their thick-cut bacon, or a massive omelet

Weeki Wachee’s history goes back much further than 1947 and those first automobile-driving, post-war visitors. or waffle, but the corn beef hash is made fresh every day and the shrimp and grits is a house specialty. Be sure to get a cinnamon roll for an appetizer, as you’ll probably have to wait a few minutes. It’s big enough to share!

The Thousand Island Café is only five minutes south of Weeki Wachee, but this family-owned diner is a pretty authentic option to having to go further south to Greek-infused Tarpon Springs. They have hearty breakfast favorites, but of course their Greek salads and entrees are the real stars. Be sure to ask about the daily specials at

32

this well-run restaurant.

WHERE TO SHOP: Weeki Wachee has a charming on-site gift shop— What tourist attraction in Central Florida worth its salt doesn’t?—where you can find all kinds of mermaid clothing and accessories. Like most state parks, it also includes lots of material for the more serious visitor, especially with its generous selection of titles on indigenous flora and fauna.

It’s hard to imagine you won’t spend something here.

A LITTLE HISTORY: Weeki Wachee has a colorful history. As one of Central Florida’s oldest roadside attractions dating back to 1947, its actual history goes back much further than those first automobile-driving, post-war visitors.

Named by the Seminole Indians because they considered it a “little spring” or “winding river,” the spring itself is actually so deep that the bottom has never been seen. Each day, more than 117 million gallons of clear, fresh 74-degree water bubbles up out of subterranean caverns and forms a five-mile-an-hour current that flows for 12 miles before dumping into the Gulf of Mexico.

NEARBY ATTRACTIONS: Weeki Wachee has plenty of activities to fill most of your day, but if you go when Buccaneer Bay is open—from 9am to 5pm—you’ll want to queue up early.

Most days when the weather is nice and

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

the local kids are out of school, the park will sell out quickly. Even if you don’t plan to go down the slides (subject to their own schedule) or bring the grandkids for a swim, you’ll enjoy hanging out on the small shoreline or dipping in the water. It is Florida, after all.

Another option would be to book a reservation for a kayak excursion down the adjacent namesake river. The water is crystal clear and the adventure company will haul you back to the starting point so you don’t have to fight the current back upstream to return to your car. A few minutes in and you’ll probably forget that busy Hwy. 19 is just a holler away.

HOW TO GET THERE: The route I like is down SR 200 to Hwy. 41 and then picking up SR 50 for the final stretch to the park. This not only avoids Hwy. 19, which feels a lot like SR 200, but it points the car through more picturesque downtowns like Inverness, tiny Floral City, and county seat Brooksville (see “Where To Eat”) where you can grab a quick breakfast.

Thank me now.

KNOW A GOOD DRIVE?

Send your favorite daycation destination to dean@ocalasgoodlife.com and maybe it’ll be featured in an upcoming issue. Or if you want to keep your getaway all to yourself, that’s okay too.

UPCOMING EVENTS Just For You — t n e m n i a t The Best in Live Enter

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Neil Simon’s

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Let us know that use heard about this show from Ocala’s Good Life to be entered to win complimentary pair of drink tickets at the show.

Don’t miss the Ocala Symphony Orchestra’s Opening Weekend!

AMERICA: ONE WILD AND BEAUTIFUL RIDE Saturday, Oct. 18 at 7:30pm | Sunday, Oct. 19 at 3:00pm Appalachian Spring - Aaron Copland The Chairman Dances - John Adams Godzilla Eats Las Vegas - Eric Whitacre A Tribute to Irving Berlin - arr. Bruce Healey

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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

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HE IS...

FEATURING...

MILD-MAnNERED DR. BILL RAMSAY

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

Most people’s Halloween preparations involve picking up a couple bags of candy at the grocery store for potential trickor-treaters. For local eye doctor Bill Ramsay, though, Halloween prep is a year-long process...

By Kari James Photos By John Jernigan

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lways the creative type, Dr. Bill Ramsay knew he could do better than the store-bought Halloween props and blow-ups he saw on neighboring lawns.

“I started making my own creepy props,” he says. “And in 1974 I made my first haunted house. I’ve always enjoyed Halloween, even as a kid, so it seemed like a fun thing to do. That first house featured black plastic, scary paint scenes, and black lights.”

Dr. Ramsay admits that his skills have evolved drastically since that first haunted house. He says Halloween has done the same.

“Halloween has transformed from what it used to be,” he says. “Movies and video games have become more violent and scary. People become numb

Eye doctor by day...

Dr. TERROREYES By NIGHT! to what actually frightens them. When we make creative haunts today, we have to throw new horror factors into them.”

Dr. Ramsay is quick to dismiss the idea of including gore in his Halloween scenes, though.

“There’s a difference between scary and disturbing. Sometimes you have to let your guests’ minds make the bigger monster.”

GROWING UP, Dr. Ramsay recalls fond memories of decorating his childhood home with his family. That’s a tradition he continued with his own two sons, who are now grown, over the years. Halloween parties became his

specialty. And they became the talk of the town.

“One year I did an ‘Addams Family’ theme,” Dr. Ramsay says. “I made 16 large props over the course of five months, including a life-size bed of nails.”

After years of hosting Halloween events, and at the urging of event organizers, Dr. Ramsay took his Halloween expertise and know-how to a bigger stage.

Preparations for the 2011 Fear Fest, a commercial haunted attraction once located in Ocala and co-spearheaded by Ramsay, led him to create the ultimate alter ego: Dr. TerrorEyes.

“I wanted a great costume and I

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

35

wanted something original,” he says.

“Being an optometrist, I thought of Dr. TerrorEyes.”

And the detailed persona Dr. Ramsay has created for his character is the stuff of horror stories. Just ask Dr. Ramsay, who is in the process of putting his story to paper.

“Dr. TerrorEyes is a hospital resident in the eyecare industry,” he says.

“He chose the field because his sister is blind, and he wanted to help her see. His sister’s murder changes everything, though, including the doctor’s motivation.”

Dr. TerrorEyes knows that the image of his sister’s killer is burned into her retina and he’s working to develop the technology to capture that image and exact revenge on the perpetrator.

But first he must practice the process, knowing he will only have one shot at getting it right.

“Dr. TerrorEyes is the dark side of healthcare,” Dr. Ramsay laughs. “On his belt you’ll find knockout medicine and the tools—like syringes, forceps and a melon baller—required to draw fluid from his victims’ eyes. A leather string attaches to a glass jar where he stores the eyeballs.”

An authentic gas mask, tattered medical coat and animated raven, replete with an extracted human eyeball grasped within its sharp beak (and aptly named Nevermore), complete the look.

“I have a remote control in my hand,” Dr. Ramsay says. “I can make the raven look all around, and people think he’s real all the time. After three or four years of frustration of people not being able to understand me through the authentic gas mask, I built a microphone into the mask and attached a mini speaker to the belt. Just add a scary voice and… voila!”

DR. RAMSAY DESCRIBES Dr. TerrorEyes as a scientist gone awry, bent on revenge. He’s making it his life’s work to do the necessary experiments to solve his sister’s murder.

Dr. TerrorEyes became Dr. Ramsay’s shtick and he’s stuck with it ever since, showing up to conventions and parties in character. It’s no surprise that he’s been awarded “best” or “scariest” costume nearly a dozen times over the years.

“Ten years ago or so, I started speaking at conventions and other

A built in microphone and speaker attached to his belt allows people to hear him talk.

Halloween events,” he says. “Last year I created the Southeast Halloween Enthusiasts Convention and launched it right here in Ocala. Halloween fanatics from all over the United States attended. We had 10,000 square feet of space, including vendors and exhibitors, artists, and prop specialists from places like Universal.”

“Bill Ramsay has always spread his knowledge of designing and fabricating everything from props to environments and everything in between,” says world-renowned sculptor Scott Fensterer (see sidebar). “He lives and breathes Halloween. For him, it’s not just a holiday, it’s a 365-day-a-year lifestyle. He’s a great ambassador for the Halloween season and a good friend.”

And he’s a busy guy.

Last year included multiple speaking engagements all over the country for Dr. Ramsay, and if you ask him his

The animated raven perched atop his shoulder grasps a human eyeball!

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

37

favorite aspect of those events, he’ll say it’s teaching people.

“I love to show people how to make their own props,” he says. “It’s fun to help the newbies. We call them ‘new home haunters,’ and we go beyond fake spiders, webs, and witches’ hats. People are always shocked at what they’re able to create with a little creativity and instruction.”

Despite making elaborate props, such as an animated replica of Florida’s electric chair, a creature crate monster that features infrared technology and sounds, (which include a variation of part of the “Jurassic Park” soundtrack), and a life-size grim reaper, his favorite prop was perhaps one of the easiest (and smallest) to create.

“It’s only a few inches tall, but I really love how my witches’ potion bottle turned out,” he says. “There’s nothing scary or ominous about it. It’s just detailed and unique. I often take things

that are new and make them look old, worn, and scary.”

AND SPEAKING OF SCARY, scaring Dr. Ramsay is not an easy task to accomplish.

“I’ll admit I’m hard to scare,” he laughs. “I enjoyed haunted houses and things like that as a kid, but today I just pick them apart and analyze them. I’m just trying to figure out how they made the props and how they work.

“I do recall a haunted house put on by the Junior League in the early 1970s, though,” he adds. “I’ll admit that one was super scary. Corny by today’s comparisons obviously, but it definitely scared me at the time.”

And for Dr. Ramsay, scaring people—and being scared—is part of the fun.

“Halloween lets you be free in a different persona to instill fright in other people in a safe way,” he says. “It’s fun, but

THE CREATURE

T

Scott Fensterer

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...END?

RETURNS

o commemorate the 65th anniversary of Universal Studios’ classic 1954 film, “The Creature From the Black Lagoon,” Ocala’s Scott Fensterer Sculpture Studio was tasked with creating a life-size replica of the original monster suit used in the movie. On September 14 Silver Springs State Park will play host to the Gill-A-Bration festival honoring the movie, parts of which were filmed at Silver Springs. The event will benefit Give Kids the World.

Scott Fensterer, a good friend of Dr. Ramsay’s, has spent the last 25 years showcasing his sculpting abilities all around the world, with projects for Universal, Disney, Hollywood movies, and more.

A 2015 run on the SyFy channel’s “Face Off” competition catapulted him into the limelight.

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

safe. You can control the environment.”

After such a busy year last year, including a recent move from Ocala to nearby Fruitland Park, Dr. Ramsay has decided to lay low this year.

“We still have boxes that need to be unpacked,” he says. “This year I’m going to just work on the farm with our rescue dogs, horses, and chickens.

It’s the first time in 10 years I’m taking Halloween off.”

Of course, he still has his day job. Dr. Ramsay has been seeing eye patients for 33 years and now practices with Mid-Florida Eye in Leesburg.

Don’t worry, though, plans are already in the works for Dr. Ramsay’s next Halloween convention and party.

In the meantime, he may even make a new prop or two to satisfy his creative side. And he promises to have candy on hand for trick-or-treaters.

“I was on all 14 episodes, so I was very happy with the results,” Scott laughs. “It was an interesting time in my life. I was able to redefine what I wanted to do. I quit my day job and began to focus on my business.

“I was excited to be asked to create the ‘Creature’ costume for the Gill-A-Bration,” Scott adds. “We’ve been working on it around other projects, but by the time it’s all said and done it will have about 200 hours put into it.”

The event will feature a variety of vendors, including sculptors, painters, and collectors, along with panel discussions and meet-and-greets.

“It’s going to be a really cool event,” says Scott. “The evening will culminate with an outdoor screening of ‘The Creature From the Black Lagoon.’”

WANT TO GO?

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SPECIAL TO OCALA’S GOOD LIFE

Expert Advice: Medicare

By Kristi Foret

What’s In Your Mailbox?

A

s a child I anticipated the daily delivery of the US Mail. Before faxes, emails, text messages and social media, the mailman represented the way most written messages were sent. Getting mail was the opportunity to receive a check, postcard, invitation or a pen pal’s letter. When my birthday card from grandma wasn’t there it also meant patiently waiting another day.

Today the mailing of documents has become almost obsolete. Legal documents are signed electronically, birthday wishes are sent via text, and email inboxes overflow with special offers. Your mailbox has become a holding tank for unsolicited advertisements. Even if you feed your mail into a shredder (you have to with identity theft!), it is hard to overlook the colorful Medicare advertisements. When turning 65, or relocating, or with the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) approaching, you will be the recipient of advertisements showcasing active seniors with smiling faces enjoying their health plan benefits.

Medicare advertisements may be personalized if you’re on a mailing list or sent to everyone in your neighborhood. They come in all shapes and sizes. Some are large postcards and others are envelopes marked with an urgent message. Health plans highlight their best benefits or hint about what they offer. The information is interesting, but there may be problems hiding within these solicitations. The first problem is that regulations governing the Medicare program restrict health insurers from communicating how their benefits

If you make an enrollment decision based only on the mail, you may miss out on extra benefits and savings.

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compare to their competitors.

The second problem is you may not be eligible for the plans advertised and in fact you may be eligible for unadvertised plans. If you make an enrollment decision based only on the mail, you may miss free additional benefits, lower copays, a larger provider network or even money back in your social security check.

To make the best decision for you, it is important to understand your own medical coverage needs and then review all of the options. Best Plan Choice is a licensed agency with health agents certified to write all Medicare policies. Our agents are currently scheduling enrollment appointments to help seniors complete their personalized Medical Coverage Needs review.

Contact our office or your local agent Kristi directly at 352-389-9700 for your free appointment. This solution is simpler than sorting through all the health plan brochures lurking in your mailbox or attending every individual health plan seminar offered in your neighborhood. You will be able to determine what is most important for your health and financial well-being and save yourself a lot of time. When you call your Best Plan Choice agent you can keep on shredding, or lining the bird cage, with all the junk mail.

It is our business to help you determine what is most important to you. Our services are confidential and always free. Our certified agents have access to all of the policy coverage details, the “fine print”, including deductibles, premiums, and free extra benefits. You owe it to yourself to review ALL of the options available including new plans being offered for 2020. Search online for our five-star google reviews and visit our website at www.BestPlanChoice.com to find information on “How to Stop the Junk Mail”. At Best Plan Choice, clients become friends, and friends become clients.

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.

Kristi Foret, Health Agent

(352) 389-9700

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

SPECIAL TO OCALA’S GOOD LIFE

In It to Win It RAO remains at the front lines of early detection.

R

AO’s Women’s Imaging Center (WIC) and TimberRidge Imaging Center want to remind women to maintain a “Rosie” outlook on a riveting subject: early breast cancer detection. Most people know of the importance of finding breast cancer early, when it is most easily and successfully treated. But many don’t know about some of the more sophisticated technologies that arm our dedicated faction of breast imaging subspecialists.

The first line of defense is 3D mammography, which is nearly indistinguishable from standard 2D mammography in terms of the patient experience – but 3D is far more discerning and accurate, especially for the 47% of women with dense breast tissue. “Dense breast tissue affects nearly half of all women, and it’s completely normal,” says WIC Medical Director and breast imaging subspecialist Dr. Amanda Aulls. “But in standard mammography, dense breast tissue tends to image white, often masking breast cancer, especially in its early stages. 3D mammography offers greater clarity and detail, so cancer can be more easily differentiated from healthy tissue.”

3D mammography is estimated to be up to 40% better at discovering early invasive breast cancer than 2D, and it produces far fewer false positive results. “No one wants to have an unnecessary scare,” says Dr. Aulls. “And they certainly don’t want to undergo a follow-up test if they don’t need one.

3D reduces those experiences considerably, which is why it’s RAO’s standard of care.”

Does Early Discovery Really Make a Difference?

Yes. While breast cancer continues to strike 1 in 8 American women, death rates have dropped 39%, which many medical resources attribute to advances in diagnostic testing. When caught before it has had a chance to spread, breast cancer has a 93% survival rate. “We haven’t yet figured out how to prevent breast cancer,” says Dr. Aulls, “but we have gotten better at finding it early, when survival rates are high. We have not yet won the war, but we are winning more battles than ever before.”

RAO’s Women’s Imaging Center also offers other effective armaments in the fight. As the region’s only full-service women’s diagnostic center, WIC has a team of dedicated Board certified radiologists who subspecialize in breast imaging, meaning each doctor has at least 10 years of medical training and remains up-tospeed on the newest advances in supplementary testing, such as breast MRI and ultrasound.

“We read all imaging results in-house rather than sending them out like some practices do,” says Dr. Aulls. “Interpreting results is every bit as important as getting high quality imaging. We believe it is too important a task to outsource, especially if something questionable

Dr. Amanda Aulls

shows up. In those cases, we consult directly with our patients’ doctors, many of whom our staff know personally, since we all live in the area.”

RAO has also put extensive effort into making WIC and TimberRidge welcoming environments, so women feel more comfortable physically and psychologically.

“No one particularly looks forward to having a mammogram,” says Dr. Aulls, “but they don’t have to be awful. After all, this is part of nearly every woman’s healthcare, so we do our best to make sure it’s as quick, easy and accurate as possible, so there are fewer false alarms and quicker detection. Breast health is an important cause and our lives and welfare are worth fighting for.”

In the war against breast cancer, we shall never surrender. Make today a 3D-Day with a call to RAO to schedule your routine screening.

WANT TO KNOW MORE? Radiology Associates of Ocala raocala.com (352) 671-4300

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

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RENEW HOME SHOWCASE: Sydney Smith & David Campbell

BEFORE 5Wood grain cabinets and a cramped layout were two of the things that the new homeowners knew they had to change.

AFTER

3The new sleek, modern kitchen has plenty of storage and space for food preparation.

‘The Heartbeat Of Our Home’

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

Satisfied clients Sydney Smith and David Campbell love their beautifully updated Ocala home.

S

ydney Smith and David Campbell love their tranquil home of almost six months. When David retired, they decided they wanted to have more land for horses and to enjoy a quieter lifestyle. They looked around Central Florida, fell in love with a home on acreage in Meadow Wood Farms, and moved to Ocala last Sydney & David February.

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“We love the quiet, private setting with horses and all sorts of wildlife all around us,” says Sydney. “And the neighbors are fantastic! We were welcomed from the start, and we feel quite at home already. There are so many opportunities to interact with people, and everyone has been helpful with all of our ‘new-horse-owner’ questions.”

Wanting a more friendly and inviting space to host those neighbors, the couple knew the kitchen would need to be revamped in order to be the center of their new social life. This meant some much-needed upgrades to the contractor-grade countertops, a more open plan, and a spacious island in the middle of the action. The wood-grain

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

cabinets were also anchoring the space to the late-‘90s.

“We looked at this home a few times before deciding to make an offer,” Sydney recalls. “The kitchen was one thing that we didn’t love and we knew when we bought the house that a kitchen makeover was needed.”

So, the couple wasted no time tackling that kitchen project. They called several companies and received varying offers and costs.

“Jim LaValle with ReNew was very personable, had great pictures of work that he had done previously, and was able to start pretty quickly,” she says.

“His design process was also really easy and helped us select materials and then

SAVE

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ern with clean grey cabinets and white countertops that offer lots of storage space and food preparation area, respectively. It’s now an open and spacious room the couple will enjoy for many years to come.

For Jim LaValle, it’s another job well done, something that never gets old for him or his crew. They take pride in every single assignment, and he’s more than happy to guide his clients BEFORE every step of the way.

“You have to have that vision of 3 The ReNew crew what the final product is going to look knocked out walls and like,” Jim explains, “and the product added a spacious island knowledge to get the job done.” perfect for entertaining.

Sydney and David would definitely AFTER recommend ReNew for anyone looking to remodel their kitchen or bathrooms.

The company’s work was superb and visualize what the completed project back together nicely,” she says. “And Jim kept everything well within budget. would look like.” all the professionals were super-easy to “We haven’t had an opportunity to Once they selected ReNew, Jim im- work with. They arrived when expected, entertain yet because we’re still waiting mediately came out to show them lots worked hard to get their work done of examples of previous work and many quickly, and talked with us throughout for the gas company to connect our new physical samples they’d want to conthe process to ensure we were complete- propane stove,” Sydney says. “But once that’s done, our new kitchen will be the sider while remodeling this big space, ly satisfied with their work.” centerpiece and heartbeat of our home. a daunting task for anyone unfamiliar Now the couple loves the finished with the myriad choices for each part of product. The kitchen is sleek and mod- We love it!” the process.

“The work began on May From This…

1,” she says, “and everything was wrapped up by midJune.”

Recognizing that they were going to have a lot of work done on their house, they let Jim and his crew come and go as needed. ReNew LIFE SPECI worked efficiently, and the AL OOD G ’S couple liked the work so much To This that they decided to expand 6000 $ r e v the scope of work by extendff job o ,000 $500 O ff job over $11 ,000 ing the new flooring beyond O 16 $1,000 Off job over $ 1,000 the kitchen into the living 2 0 $1,50 Off job over $ room and the hallways.

0 en $2,00 Sydney and David noticed is ad wh t. ntion th n Must me ling appointme that Jim’s subcontractors took schedu pride in their work and tried to ensure that the couple’s usual home life was not 2501 SW 57th Ave, #805, Ocala disrupted by their tasks. The Call to schedule your free consultation couple enjoyed their interactions and the care they took Jim (352) 857-9604 FINANCING AVAILABLE Call RenewKandB.com in making sure everything was done to their satisfaction.

Professionally managed projects from design to completion “Demolition was our least Cabinets • Countertops • Flooring • Showers favorite part of the project, Jim LaValle —“The Design Guy” but things started to come

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

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SPECIAL TO OCALA’S GOOD LIFE

‘We Treat Each Other Like Family’

A

fter passing through the gated entrance, driving down the tree-canopied boulevard into Sweetwater Oaks is like leaving the hustle of the world behind and entering your own private oasis. Situated just minutes from downtown Ocala and the busy SR 200 corridor, this active 55-and-up retirement community is close to all the necessities, including shops, restaurants, banking, and medical facilities, while also providing a quiet, relaxed, rural atmosphere for the residents. Consider it the best of both worlds.

For those looking to leave the harsh northern winters behind, manager and resident Frank Alogna says Sweetwater Oaks is the perfect compromise to big city and country living.

“Ocala is just two hours from Jack-

At Sweetwater Oaks you can be as busy or as laid back as you choose.

44

sonville or Tampa,” he says. “Orlando is even closer, as are plenty of beautiful beaches. Here in Sweetwater Oaks, we have vacant land to our west and north, allowing for a relaxed, quiet lifestyle without giving up any of the luxuries or conveniences of living in a city.”

The community is surrounded by nature, and plenty of birds and other small animals frequent the area.

There are currently 168 homes in Sweetwater Oaks, all double- and triple-wide (multi-section by rule) manufactured homes, in addition to vacant homesites.

“Our smallest homes are about 900 square feet,” says Frank, “and the largest 2,500 or so. This is a wonderful residential, factory-built housing community. Opened in 1990, this park is newer than most retirement communities, and there is a lot of originality with the homes.

“We specialize in custom-built homes,” he adds. “You come in and pick out the floor plan and details of your home, right down to the finishes. We

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

offer a turn-key package, including everything from the home and stucco skirting to the sod, irrigation system, appliances, and more.”

And that’s just the route Judy and Patrick Seadorf took.

“We made the move to Ocala from West Palm [Beach],” says Judy. “We had been looking in this community for years knowing we would eventually like to retire here.”

When the Seadorfs were ready to make Ocala official, they called on Frank to make it happen.

“Once we decided on a homesite, we sat down and went over all the details,” Judy says. “We wanted a three-bedroom home, and we use one of those bedrooms as an office. I upgraded the bathroom counters, kitchen cabinets, and window sills. I added a screened porch and opted for drywall to eliminate any tape and seams on the walls, even a huge workshop for Pat.” Like Frank says, the choices are yours.

Model homes are available, and he

welcomes everyone to tour the facilities and get a feel for the lifestyle.

AT SWEETWATER OAKS you can be as busy or as laid back as you choose. On any given day you’ll see your neighbors out exercising or walking their furry friends. There’s also a great selection of weekly game and card nights, a lending library, and a fully stocked clubhouse, not to mention the heated pool. The on-site dog park is the perfect place to allow your pooch to burn off some steam while you catch up with friends.

“We are a close-knit community,” says Frank. “Several times a year we have community celebrations, including potlucks and holiday parties.”

Since moving into the community, JoAnn Kuhlman has been busy on the Sweetwater Oaks social committee. She and husband John became residents in 2016. After leasing for some time, they opted to purchase in Sweetwater Oaks.

Since then, JoAnn has helped arrange a variety of neighborhood events, including a Roaring ‘20s party, a hoedown, ice cream socials, and a clam bake.

“Sweetwater Oaks is more than just a mobile home park,” JoAnn says. “It’s a community. We treat each other like family, and everyone is so friendly and inclusive. I tell people all the time to come look at our park. It’s impressive how nice everything is kept up. Once we toured Sweetwater Oaks, we knew we could see

ourselves living here.”

New residents Andrea and Larry Sabatowski agree.

“We started out renting in Orange Lake before moving here,” Andrea says.

“One of the things we love most about Sweetwater Oaks is the size of the community. Some retirement communities are so large that they don’t feel homey. Here, I felt immediately welcomed. Even when we were touring, people were coming out of their homes to wave and wish us well.”

IT’S THAT KIND OF TIGHT-KNIT community that allows the residents to feel safe and secure. Privacy and security are important to most these days, and at Sweetwater Oaks, you can rest assured that your neighbors are looking out for you.

“About 20 percent of our residents are seasonal, so the rest are here all year,” says Frank. “Our seasonal residents can feel good leaving their home for a while knowing that not only management, but their neighbors as well are keeping a watchful eye on their property. There is only one entrance in and out of the community, and a gate with a keypad and remote entry for residents was installed in 2004 for added privacy.”

Residents can also take comfort in knowing that the park has been under the same private ownership and management company for 17 years. Frank came on board at the same time, and he and his wife have been happy to call Sweetwater

Oaks home ever since.

“The office staff is just amazing,” Andrea says of Frank and his team.

“Sandy is fantastic and always has a smile on her face and extends an offer for a nice cup of coffee and Corey seems to be everywhere at once, keeping the common grounds so nice.”

Judy Seadorf agrees.

“When we came in to close on the sale of our house, I walked into the front office and said ‘Hi, honey. I’m home,’ because that’s just the way I felt—that I was home.”

Sweetwater Oaks Ocala 3151 NW 44th Avenue Ocala, FL 34482 (352) 620-0188 sweetwateroaksocala.com

Custom-built homes can be tailored to indivdual preferences.

The heated swmming pool offers an extended swimming season.

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

45

Make Your Movie Night

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P O P SWEET AND SALTY POPCORN PARTY MIX Yield: 14 cups

10 cups popped popcorn

2 cups miniature pretzel twists

1 cup pecans

1 cup peanuts

2 cups rice, wheat or corn cereal squares 1/2 cup butter (1 stick) 1/2 cup packed brown sugar 1/4 cup corn syrup 1/2 teaspoon baking soda Heat oven to 300 F. In large bowl, combine popcorn, pretzels, pecans, peanuts and cereal squares; set aside.

In medium saucepan over medium heat, heat butter, brown sugar and corn syrup. Stir mixture until it begins to boil. Boil 3 minutes without stirring.

Remove from heat and stir in baking soda. Note: Mixture will foam.

Pour syrup over popcorn mixture and stir until evenly coated. Pour mixture onto large, rimmed baking sheet or roasting pan. Bake 30 minutes, stirring twice during baking. Stir mixture several times as it cools. Store in airtight container.

MAPLE BACON POPCORN MIX Yield: 2 quarts

6 slices thick-cut bacon 1/4 cup pure maple syrup

8 cups popped popcorn 2/3 cup pecan halves, coarsely chopped 2/3 cup dried cranberries

2 tablespoons butter or margarine 1/4 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper 1/4 teaspoon maple extract Heat oven to 400 F. Line jellyroll pan with foil. Place wire rack in pan.

Arrange bacon in single layer on

rack. Bake 15 minutes until ends of bacon start to curl.

Remove and reserve 2 table­spoons bacon drippings. Brush bacon with 2 tablespoons maple syrup; bake 15 minutes until browned. Cool then coarsely chop bacon.

In large bowl, combine popcorn, pecans and cranberries.

Combine butter, black pepper, maple extract, remain­ing maple syrup and reserved bacon drippings. Cook over low heat until butter is melted.

Drizzle over popcorn mixture and mix thoroughly.

Spread popcorn mixture in jellyroll or roasting pan.

Bake 5 minutes. Toss in bacon pieces. Serve warm.

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

FAMILY FEATURES

I

nvite your friends and neighbors over, spread out some comfy seating and dim the lights. Whether it’s a kids’ birthday party, an adult gathering or nearly anything in-between, hosting a movie night in the comfort of your own home – or on a projector in the yard – can be the perfect escape. Of course, tasty snacks only add to the fun.

Light and airy popcorn is a movie watching staple, and one you can feel good about eating. At only 30 calories per cup, whole-grain, freshly popped popcorn is naturally low in fat and calories, non-GMO, gluten-free, contains no artificial additives or preservatives and is sugar-free.

Enjoyed a handful at a time or as part of creative, flavorful snack recipes – like Popcorn Pepperoni Pizza Dippers, Sweet and Salty Popcorn Party Mix, Maple Bacon Popcorn Mix and Truffle Popcorn – popcorn offers plenty of versatility to fit nearly any theme. Find more recipes perfect for serving at your next movie night at popcorn.org.

POPCORN PEPPERONI PIZZA DIPPERS Yield: 16 squares

Nonstick cooking spray

2 eggs 1/2 cup tomato and basil reduced-fat cooking cream

1 tablespoon grated parmesan cheese 1/8 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper 10 cups popped popcorn

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese 1/3 cup thinly sliced pepperoni, coarsely chopped marinara sauce, for dipping Heat oven to 350 F. Spray 8-inch square baking pan with nonstick cooking spray.

In large bowl, whisk eggs, cooking cream, parmesan cheese and black pepper. Stir in popcorn, mozzarella cheese and pepperoni.

Spread mixture in prepared pan, patting down with spatula or spoon.

Bake about 15 minutes until set and lightly browned. Let sit 5 minutes. Cut into 16 bars. Serve warm with marinara sauce.

TRUFFLE POPCORN Yield: 10 cups 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon, plus 2 teaspoons,

white truffle oil, divided 1/2 cup popcorn kernels

1 tablespoon butter

3 tablespoons shredded parmesan cheese 1/2 teaspoon sea salt freshly ground black pepper In large, heavy-bottomed pot with lid, combine olive oil and 1 tablespoon truffle oil. Add about three popcorn kernels.

Heat over medium-high heat until one kernel pops. Add remaining popcorn kernels; cover.

Once corn begins to pop, shake pot constantly over heat.

When popping slows, remove pot from heat and transfer popcorn to large serving bowl.

Melt butter and mix in remaining truffle oil.

Pour mixture over popcorn; toss.

Sprinkle parmesan cheese, salt and pepper over popcorn; toss to distribute evenly.

Serve immediately or store in air­tight container.

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

47

GOOD EATS: THE SALTED BRICK

‘Country-Club Cuisine On A Family-Dining Budget’

By Rick Allen • Photos by John Jernigan

This slightly out-of-theway restaurant is now one of Ocala’s best with an impressive décor to match the equally impressive menu. And that view!

48

F

our years ago, a little-known eatery out on U.S. Hwy. 27 was the Cinderella story of the 2015 Taste of Ocala.

With the unwieldy name of Trilogy at Ocala Preserve, its staff took home accolades for Best Presentation and Best Dessert, a mini-ice cream cone rolled in Pop Rocks.

Who were these guys?

A few weeks later I found them at Ocala Preserve, a 623-acre golf and residential community just starting to build on the western edge of a bunch of new commerce out that way. The

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

award-winning restaurant was tucked into a side of the tour center, in a space resembling more a breakfast buffet room at a hotel than an eatery in its ascendancy. The kitchen was makeshift: countertop propane burners and a convection pizza oven.

Despite the simplicity, this kitchen was cranking out top-notch meals. And it was gearing up to host a glittering gathering of

the Silver Springs International Film Festival.

Fast forward two years to 2017 and a permanent clubhouse to showcase the eatery, now dubbed The Salted Brick in homage to Ocala’s age-old nickname “Brick City,” is complete.

“Each space here is named for something Ocala,” says Robert Parody, the club general manager who oversees The Salted Brick. The facility boasts a dedicated chef ’s table and its own demonstration kitchen.

An atypical feature are the 183 wine lockers, small climate-controlled storage units for holding private stashes of wine belonging to club members.

My wife and I visited on a recent Wednesday for lunch. We walked right in and were immediately impressed with the welcome warmth of its woodand-brick decor touched with contem-

Millionaire Burger

porary flair. Later, we were impressed with our meals.

“All is built around lifestyle,” Parody says. “Trilogy is your third phase of life: you grew up, you worked and had your family, now it’s time to relax,” Still, about 70 percent of the restaurant’s patrons come from beyond the entrance.

“People make everything,” he adds.

“This is bricks and mortar, but it’s the people—the people who live here, who work here, who come here—they’re the ones who Shrimp & Grits make us what we are. Our identity is the way you feel when you come in.”

ed with fresh regional flavors. These’ll change regularly. In the Seasons 52 model, the menu here changes every three or four months. His goal, Cipollo adds, is to present a cuisine that’s

WHERE: The Club at Trilogy at Ocala Preserve might be a gated community, but The Salted Brick is open to the public. A friendly greeter at the gate will cheerfully direct you to the clubhouse.

BEST TIME TO GO: Daytime, lunch through pre-dinner, if you’re interested in a quieter walk-in-sit-down experience. Parody says if you’re more inclined toward an “inviting, fun atmosphere,” then evening hours are for you. “We pretty much have something going on every night,” he says.

WHY GO: Most of us go where we go mainly for the food, but an ambiance factor makes it all the better. The Salted Brick has both.

It’s a place to meet with friends, cool down after 18 holes, or savor a bottle of wine.

Chef Ralph Cipollo, lured away from the Club Med resorts empire, likes to tweak requisite corporate-core menu items with local touches. The remainder of the bill of fare is his playground.

“I want to bring in more Florida and Caribbean influences,” Cipollo says, integrat-

“simple, tasty, and consistent so people know what they’re eating.”

SALTED BRICK?: The idea of naming facilities here is to honor Ocala and its past, Parody explains. For instance, the demo kitchen is named “Rose Farm’s Kitchen” after Carl Rose, a famous Thoroughbred breeder. “Brick” refers to Ocala’s nickname when it rebuilt after the 1883 fire. And “Salted,” he adds, is a reference to Himalayan salt licks for horses because the acreage Ocala Preserve occupies once was a horse farm.

YOU’LL BE IMPRESSED BY: The views from the clubhouse. The stunOCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

49

ning view of Reflection Lake as you walk in the front door, then the vista of fairways alongside of the lake.

But more than the views, I was impressed by the prices, which are surprisingly reasonable. Only one item exceeds $20. Entrees range $12-$19, sandwiches $10-$14, and artisan pizzas $11-$14. This is country-club cuisine on a family-dining budget.

YOU MUST TRY: We asked our server, Summer Smith, for a recommendation. She suggested the millionaire burger and the sage and butter orecchiette, ear-shaped pasta in a mild cheese sauce with chicken, diced ham, roasted butternut squash and wild mushrooms. I can say from personal experience that the French onion soup is great. Parody adds that the pizzas and burgers have always been popular, but the most-ordered item is shrimp and cheese grits.

“We haven’t taken it off the menu since the beginning,” he says. “It’s a Charleston-type dish.”

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Parody also suggests the eatery’s signature butter cake.

FRIENDLY STAFF: Our server was as sunny as her name. Summer was attentive to our every need, checking back with us regularly. Parody says that’s the main characteristic he’s after when hiring.

“I look for friendliness,” he says, “whether they’re a veteran or just starting out. They do their utmost because they care.”

INSIDER TIP: In addition to its ample wine list, the Salted Brick features four varieties of wine on tap: a Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay, Cabernet, and Malbec.

This is a relatively recent concept in shipping, storing, and serving wine.

Their metal casks are reusable, meaning corks, bottles, cartons, labels and such are not necessary. Moreover, “wine poured from the cask is always served fresh and allows us to skip the bottling process,” according to a note on the wine list. Essentially, Parody

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

says, there’s no need to let a wine aerate after it’s been decanted.

“It’s served with a clean, fresh flavor,” he adds.

HIDDEN TREASURE: “The spa,” Parody says. “We have a beautiful spa here, but nobody uses it.” And it’s open to the public, he adds.

FINAL WORD: This eatery premiered with a bang four years ago, and it hasn’t slowed since. The Salted Brick is already counted among the upper tier of eateries in the Greater Ocala Area and is well-positioned for when H.I.T.S. is in town and the Ocala Equestrian Center opens.

But is it worth the trip out here?

Let’s just say I’m likely to return again and again and...

WANT TO KNOW MORE? The Salted Brick in Trilogy at Ocala Preserve 4021 NW 53rd Avenue Road (352) 509-5183

cuisine queen

by Paula DiPaula [paula@ocalasgoodlife.com]

Those Little Places That Pack A Big Punch

S

ome say that way back when, life was easier without all the electronics. It probably was easier in the sense that you didn’t have to keep track of them or face a new learning curve with each upgrade. For me, it’s much easier when my phone announces to turn left or right rather than balance a large map on my lap that is marked several times to other places I’ve been, which can be confusing and worse than texting while driving. My phone is also quite convenient when I’m out of town. I just ask Google to show me restaurants near me and I can see real reviews, pictures, hours, and more.

I like to pick the smaller, family-owned restaurants.

Sure, I know what I’m getting at the chain restaurants when it comes to menu selection. And at the smaller places, I wonder if my home fries are going to be crispy or I like to pick soggy, but for the most part, I’m usually impressed more than the smaller, disappointed. family-owned Let’s talk about some of those smaller places. Gg’s Heavrestaurants. enly Soul Food, 732-7685, is on Silver Springs Boulevard and heavenly, it is. For breakfast, pick three items for $5.

The lunch menu features a dish for the day (two to three entrees to choose from) with two sides and bread.

The macaroni and cheese tastes more like cheese and macaroni! No skimping there. See their mouthwatering pictures and hours at ggsheavenlysoulfood.com.

Nancy’s Breakfast and Lunch, 622-2807, is located on Northeast Jacksonville Road in what many will remember as Minucci’s. Open now for seven years, Nancy features extra-high layer cakes, homemade banana pudding, chocolate, coconut cream pies, and more. She has a one-pound and two-pound “Holy

52

Cow” burger. If you can eat the entire two-pounder, she will give you a free $8.99 breakfast on your next visit! Using no microwaves, Nancy says all of her food comes out hot. She suggests you try her “talked-about” grits that need no seasoning at the table.

Mr. B’s Real Southern Cooking, 591-4362, is only open Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Along the lines of Gg’s Heavenly Soul Food, you know it’s southern food when the word “smothered” is on the menu more than once. Another telltale sign are the desserts: peach cobbler, banana pudding, and sweet potato pie, which is not easy to find any time of the year.

Located in a quaint yellow house in Reddick, you’ll also enjoy fried fish, liver and onions, and, of course, smothered turkey wings and pork chops, among many other country items. Google the restaurant name and the pictures are very convincing for a visit.

Of course there are many more to mention that may be your favorites, so please email your suggestions.

Quick Bites: J Rocks Pizzeria, 861-3800, recently opened on Easy Street in the Walmart parking lot.

Their motto is “The Pizza Difference,” offering BBQ and seafood pizza among the traditional. Also on the menu are smoked or regular wings, hot and cold sandwiches, and more.

Ali Mediterranean Grill, 629-1106, has opened where Gyro Hut used to be on Pine Avenue; Hiatus Brewing Company (no number yet) opening on SR 200; Wallace’s at the Greenhouse, 503-7276, in Homosassa; Marcelino’s Italian Restaurant (no number yet) opened in place of Carmine’s on SR 200; Dickey’s Barbecue Pit and Tuva Kitchen will be opening on West SR 40 in the same plaza; Turnpike Mike’s, 2378460, will be opening two more locations in Summer Glen and Spring Hill; Gyro King, 547-6774, has expanded their menu from gyros to full Greek entrees including Moussaka, Pastitisio, and more. Whispering Oaks Winery, 748-0449, features wine made from blueberries. Enjoy grilled steaks and live entertainment on the weekends as well as tapas during the week.

More next issue!

Got A Hot Tip For The Cuisine Queen?

E-mail me at paula@ocalasgoodlife.com

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

A Culinary Tour of Downtown Ocala

Turn Your Old Records & CDs Into Cash!

al Loc er`s id Ins r Tou

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

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

Call: (352) 208-4242

ocalafoodwalks.com • (352) 462-5737

www.gold99fm.com

99.5 FM Gainesville

facebook.com/gold99fm

99.7 FM Ocala/The Villages OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

53

DINING GUIDE Pan-fried frog legs with lemon, garlic and parsley

48 SW 1st Avenue, Ocala (352) 433-2570 • lacuisineocala.com Owner-operated since 2009, La Cuisine in Ocala has all the Old World charm of any romantic hideaway in Paris. Ideal for a quick bite at lunch time or a leisurely meal, the menu is filled with classics such as French onion soup, escargots and Boeuf Bourguignon. Located in the heart of Ocala’s beautiful and vibrant historic downtown, come indulge yourself with our award-winning menu and dedicated service in a unique French bistro atmosphere. Patrice and Elodie are here to welcome you! Don’t miss our blissful live music every Friday.

Specialties: Escargots, Frog Legs, Organic Half Roast

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

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

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

11am-2pm

CLOSED MONDAYS

NEW OUTDOOR SEATING!

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.

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OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

FULL BAR!

DINING GUIDE 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: Fun, food & spirits will greet you at William’s

Landing atop Blackwater Inn. Whether it’s for lunch or dinner or just some drinks and appetizers, you can be assured of a great time. Find a seat inside to cool off from the heat, or sit on the shady outdoor deck to enjoy the balmy breezes and panoramic view of the St. Johns River, watching the constant parade of boaters and wildlife cruise up and down the river.

Specialties: Catfish Nuggets; Chicken Wings;

1/3rd Pound Gourmet Burgers; Peel ‘n’ Eat Shrimp; Alligator Bites; Beer, Wine and Full Bar.

Blackwater Inn Hours:

Tues.-Thurs.

Fri. Sat. Sun. Mon.

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

Catering • Holiday Parties Special Events

Call Today toP lan Your Holidays!

on The

Square

GIFT CARDS Specials AVAILABLE

Taking Thanksgiving Reservations

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

55

! 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. 56

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

56

DINING GUIDE

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

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OUT & ABOUT

5 Angie Miao, Bernadette King, Debbie Garcia-Bengochea

5 Judy Husar, Tommi Chappell

Gentle Carousel Magical Gala

5 Ghislaine Haynes, Malcolm McLachlan

Held this spring, this annual event was by all accounts a “whinny-ing” success.

The all-volunteer Ocala-based charity, which travels the country with teams of miniature therapy horses, raised $9,000.

The highlight of the dinner event was a special appearance by Magic, who with the help of owner Jorge GarciaBengochea, stoically navigated his way around the club’s dining room unfazed by adorning guests and a barrage of flashing smartphones.

5 Chris & Kelli Holt

Photos By Steve Floethe

4 Mary & Wayne Soares

5 Alachua County Sheriff Sadie Darnell, Karl Kaufmann, Alisa Carlino

6 Louisa Barton, Jorge Garcia-Bengochea, Cindy Oatman

WANT TO KNOW MORE?

5 Jim & Carrie Brinkman

gentlecarouseltherapyhorses.com

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

Through Sep. 20

FIGHT OR FLIGHT: KEVIN HARAN & ROBERT REEDY—The exhibition curated

by Tyrus Clutter, associate professor at CF, will feature a mix of paintings and sculptures by both artists. Webber Center Gallery. 10am-4pm. Free.

873-5809.

Through Sep. 22

MATILDA—Inspired by the

dark whimsy of Roald Dahl’s book and the beloved 1996 film, this is a thrilling, joyous, girl-power romp full of catchy songs and high-energy dance numbers. Matinees at 2pm, evening at 8pm. Ocala Civic Theatre. ocalacivictheatre.com or 236-2274.

THE CURIOUS INCIDENT OF THE DOG IN THE NIGHT-TIME—Based on the

best-selling book, this Tony Award-winning play explores what it truly means to love and be loved. Various times. The Hippodrome Theatre, Gainesville. thehipp.org or (352) 375-HIPP.

Through Sep. 24

CF INTERNATIONAL FILM SERIES—The College of Central

Florida’s International Film Series kicks off in September, starting with “Shoplifters” on Tuesday, Sept.10, and “I am Not a Witch” on Tuesday, Sept.24. Shows start at 2pm at the Appleton Museum of Art and at 7pm at the Ocala Campus in the Humanities and Social Sciences Building 8, Room 110. For a full series list and more information, call 8735800, ext. 1233 or visit CF.edu/ filmseries.

Through Oct. 9

MODERN MIDDLE EAST—

Richard Kirk will look at the history of the area beginning with the pre-Islamic world.

Wednesdays, September 4-October 9 from 1:30pm3:30pm. $30. Presented by Senior Learners, Inc. at the University Center, Building 20 at the College of Central Florida.

Register at seniorlearners.org or call (352) 239-8780.

Through Oct. 20

DO NOT BLEACH: STEPHANIE BROWN—

This mixed-media installation expresses and encourages melanin love, whether one is dark-skinned, lightskinned, or somewhere inbetween. Appleton Museum. appletonmuseum.org or (352) 291-4455.

URBAN CHATTER: SHARON KERRYHARLAN—The figures

and faces seem to meld contemporary cartooning, abstraction, African sculptures and ritual masks among mid-century urban music references. Appleton Museum. appletonmuseum.org or (352) 291-4455.

Through Nov. 23

EPCOT INTERNATIONAL FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL—

An autumn special event that transforms Epcot into a foodand wine-lover’s paradise. wdwnews.com.

Through Dec. 21

OCKLAWAHA CONCERT SERIES—Concerts return

to Silver Springs State Park.

September 21, The Sandspurs; October 19, John Dickie IV; December 21, Brian Smalley.

Tickets are $7 in advance or $10 at the gate. Silver Springs State Park. silversprings.com/music or 261-5840.

Through May

FIRST FRIDAY ART WALK—

THE DOOBIE BROTHERS EXPERIENCE September 14 The Doobie Others are the New York/Tri-State area’s prolific tribute to none other than, The Doobie Brothers. In addition, as the great American originals are driven by superior songwriting, powerful harmonies, and high-energy performances, so are the Doobie Others, the next best thing to the world-renowned superstars. $24-26. 7pm Circle Square Cultural Center at On Top of the World. csculturalcenter.com or (352) 854-3670.

Located in Downtown Ocala, the art walks takes place the first Friday of every month and is free to the public.

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

“Bohemian Rhapsody,” “Love of My Life” and “You’re My Best Friend.” Classic Albums Live has defined itself as a mainstay in Performing Arts Centers across North America. $2530 7:30pm. Reilly Arts Center. reillyartscenter.com or (352) 351-1606

September 5-15

September 11

against the 1950’s “golden age” of American male supremacy, an introverted young photographer joins a renowned lobotomist on a tour to promote the doctor’s recently-debunked procedure.

Various times. The Hippodrome Theatre, Gainesville. thehipp.org or (352) 375-HIPP.

knee pain keeping you up at night? Join Dr. Gibson to learn how to manage knee pain. 3-4pm. Senior Wellness Community Center. ocalahealthsystem.com or 401-1338.

THE MOUNTAIN—Set

September 6

QUEEN TRIBUTE— Classic

Albums Live performs Queen’s ground-breaking album “A Night at the Opera” note for note, cut for cut, featuring the songs

STRIVE! HOW TO MANAGE KNEE PAIN WITHOUT SURGERY—Is

September 13

HEALTHY AGING: WOULDA, COULDA, SHOULDA—It’s not too

late! Learn the newest recommendations from the

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

59

September 19-21

September 22

island in the Indian Ocean is a high-security Australian detention center where thousands of asylum seekers have been locked away indefinitely. Various times. The Hippodrome Theatre, Gainesville. thehipp.org or (352) 375-HIPP.

of six to bowl or enjoy the silent auction at AMF West Galaxy Lanes and raise funds for Habitat for Humanity. 12:30-4:30pm.

AMF Galaxy West Lanes.

351-4663.

ISLAND OF THE HUNGRY GHOSTS—On an isolated

NEIL SIMON’S THE ODD COUPLE September 27-28 This classic comedy opens as a group of the guys assemble for cards in the apartment of divorced Oscar Madison. And if the mess is any indication, it’s no wonder that his wife left him. Late to arrive is Felix Unger, who has just been separated from his wife. Fastidious, depressed, and none too tense, Felix seems suicidal, but as the action unfolds, Oscar becomes the one with murder on his mind when the clean freak and the slob ultimately decide to room together with hilarious results. $10-25 Friday 7:30pm, Saturday 3pm and 7:30pm Reilly Arts Center. reillyartscenter.com or 351-1606 National Institute of Health to keep living a dynamic healthy life. 3-4pm. Senior Wellness Community Center. ocalahealthsystem.com or 401-1338.

September 14

GILL-A-BRATION—From

silver screen to Silver Springs.

Celebrate the 65th anniversary of Universal Studio’s classic 1954 film featuring a special screening of “Creature from the Black Lagoon.” Proceeds benefiting Give Kids the World.

10am-8pm. $12. Silver Springs State Park. gktw.org THE DOOBIE BROTHERS EXPERIENCE— The Doobie

Others are the New York/TriState area’s prolific tribute to none other than, The Doobie Brothers. In addition, as the great American originals are driven by superior songwriting, powerful harmonies, and high-energy performances, so are the Doobie Others, the next best thing to the world-renowned superstars. $24-26. 7pm Circle Square Cultural Center at On Top of the

60

World. csculturalcenter.com or (352) 854-3670.

September 17

QUIT SMOKING NOW: TOBACCO CESSATION—A

six-week tobacco cessation program on Tuesdays, 10:30am12pm to help you prepare to pick your own quit date in order to stop using tobacco for good. There is no charge for the program, and you’ll receive up to a free month’s supply of nicotine replacement therapy (patches, gum or lozenges).

10:30am-12pm. Senior Wellness Community Center. ocalahealthsystem.com or 401-1338.

September 18

WHAT DOES HEART DISEASE FEEL LIKE?—

Please join Dr. Solanki as he discusses what symptoms patients may experience if they have coronary artery disease. 10:30-11:30am. Senior Wellness Community Center. ocalahealthsystem.com or 401-1338.

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

September 20

ETIENNE CHARLES: CREOLE SOUL—Building on

his Trinidadian heritage, Charles is rewriting jazz by blending myriad rhythms from the French, Spanish, English, and Dutchspeaking Caribbean and defying easy musical categorization. $35-50. 7pm and 9pm. The Phillips Center, Gainesville. performingarts.ufl.edu or 800-905-2787.

September 21

PREACHER LAWSON—

Since exploding onto the scene as a Top 5 finalist on NBC’s “America’s Got Talent: The Champions,” Preacher Lawson has been serving up his unique flavor of deliciously goofy, contagiously energetic comedy at clubs, colleges, and theatres nationwide. This performance may contain some adult content. $35-50. 7pm and 9pm. The Phillips Center, Gainesville. performingarts.ufl.edu or 800-905-2787.

WALK TO END ALZHEIMER’S—This two-mile

walk allows people to fight back in a fun, family-friendly way.

9:30am. Tuscawilla Park. alz.org/ walk. (352) 372-6266.

September 21-22

ELEPHANT APPRECIATION DAY—Come join the fun

and learn all about elephants!

Animal talks and demonstration, animal interactions, food, and live music! $5-40. 11am-5pm.

Two Tails Ranch, Williston. allaboutelephants.com or 359-6676.

‘BOWL-TO-BUILD’ BOWLA-THON—Get together a team

SARAH CHANG—Recognized

as one of the foremost violinists of our time, Chang made her New York Philharmonic debut at the age of 8 and has continued to impress audiences worldwide. $25-45. 7:30pm.

The Phillips Center, Gainesville. performingarts.ufl.edu or 800-905-2787.

September 25

POSTMODERN JUKEBOX—These YouTube

sensations serve up energetic and soulful reworkings of classic pop and rock songs. $25-45.

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

Sep. 25-26

AARP TWO-DAY SAFE DRIVING CLASS—Learn

defensive driving techniques, new traffic laws, and rules of the road and earn an auto insurance discount. Cost is $15 for AARP members and $20 for non-members, checks only and payable to AARP. Wednesday 1-4:30pm, Thursday 9am-12pm.

Ozark Bank building, second floor. ocalahealthsystem.com or 401-1338.

Sep. 26-Oct. 6

THE FAREWELL—A funny,

uplifting tale based on an actual lie of an expedited wedding that unites family members scattered among new homes abroad.

Various times. The Hippodrome Theatre, Gainesville. thehipp.org or (352) 375-HIPP.

September 27

MANAGING HIGH CHOLESTEROL—Facts

versus myths of the highly

debated medication class of statins. What are some of the risks and benefits of using this medication? 3-4pm. Senior Wellness Community Center. ocalahealthsystem.com or 401-1338.

September 27-28

NEIL SIMON’S THE ODD COUPLE—This classic comedy

opens as a group of the guys assemble for cards in the apartment of divorced Oscar Madison. And if the mess is any indication, it’s no wonder that his wife left him. Late to arrive is Felix Unger, who has just been separated from his wife.

Fastidious, depressed, and none too tense, Felix seems suicidal, but as the action unfolds, Oscar becomes the one with murder on his mind when the clean freak and the slob ultimately decide to room together with hilarious results. $10-25 Friday 7:30pm, Saturday 3pm and 7:30pm Reilly Arts Center. reillyartscenter.com or 351-1606

Sep. 27-Oct. 27

CORN MAZE FESTIVAL—

Stop by Timberline Farm where the entire family can enjoy music, pony rides, face painting, food and craft vendors, and experience some ol’ country charm. Festival days are Friday 4-8pm, Saturday 10am8pm, and Sunday 12-8pm. timberlinefarms.net or 454- 4113.

September 28

AMBROSIA—In the year

1970, four young musicians from the South Bay of Los Angeles, came together to create a new invigorating style of music.

Ambrosia is more alive and compelling than ever, with three of the original members intact, plus the addition of guitar ace Doug Jackson on electric guitar. $32-34. 7pm Circle Square Cultural Center at On Top of the World. csculturalcenter.com or (352) 854-3670.

ARTS & CRAFTS SHOW—

Come visit many unique venders. Hand-made items, gift ideas, raffle, bake sale, refreshments, and much more will be featured. 9am-1pm.

Countryside Presbyterian Church. countrysideocala.org or (352) 237-4433.

September 28-29

KINGDOM OF THE SUN BAND—Strike up the band

under the direction of Les Muncaster. Come hear the band perform a wide variety of music, perfect for the fall season. 2pm on Saturday and 3pm on Sunday.

Marion Technical Institute. kingdomofthesunband.org or 624-9291.

October 2

TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR DIABETES—A monthly

ELVIS “REWIND” WEEKEND October 4-5 Journey back to 1955, when Elvis performed in Ocala.

Starring Dunnellon’s Cote Deonath, this magical weekend features two nights of special music to commemorate the events that shaped Elvis as a performer and a man. On Friday night, special guest Cindy Moody will open the show performing as Patsy Cline. Saturday night will open with Bill Stabilt performing as Frank Sinatra. Benefitting Habitat For Humanity Marion County. VIP Meet & Greet tickets available. Tickets $15-$65 at tributeticket.com.

Southeastern Livestock Pavilion. (352) 351-4663.

SPONSORED BY

Ocala’s

GOOD LIFE

TM

MAGAZINE

meeting that provides support, encouragement and information to people with diabetes and their friends and families. 10:3011:30am. Ozark Bank building, second floor. ocalahealthsystem. com or 401-1338.

October 2-3

ALPIN HONG—His

combination of stunning technique, emotional range, and rare humor never fails to inspire standing ovations. $50. 7:30pm.

The Phillips Center, Gainesville. performingarts.ufl.edu or 800-905-2787.

October 3-13

VANYA AND SONIA AND MASHA AND SPIKE—

This absurd comedy about a bickering family puts the fun in dysfunctional! Matinees at 2pm, evening at 8pm. Ocala Civic Theatre. ocalacivictheatre.com or 236-2274.

October 4-5

ELVIS CONCERT SERIES—

Go back to when Elvis performed in Ocala in 1955! Two nights of magic, two nights of excitement, two nights of Elvis like you’ve never seen before. Featuring Ocala’s own Cote Deonath, backed by The Double Trouble

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

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Show Band. $15-65. 7pm Southeastern Livestock Pavilion. habitatocala.org/elvis-concert or 351-4663.

Beckett Trilogy.” $30. 7:30pm.

The Phillips Center, Gainesville. performingarts.ufl.edu or 800-905-2787.

Brahms and Chopin. 3pm.

Countryside Presbyterian Church. countrysideocala.org or 237-4433.

American Cancer Society.

7:30am Check-in, walk begins at 9am. Register at acsevents.org

October 5

October 11

October 17

the fall with craft beer, authentic German cuisine, and an awesome music festival. Relax in beautiful Tuscawilla Park with an authentic brew and fill up with traditional and non-traditional cuisine. 11am. Tuscawilla Park. reillyartscenter.com or 369-1500.

anniversary celebration promises to be an unforgettable show of music and fun. $25-90 7:30pm.

Reilly Arts Center. reillyartscenter. com or 351-1606

miss Ocala’s largest gathering of artists and arts enthusiasts.

This event includes food, live performances, and the announcement of the 2020 MCA Cultural Grants and Arts Awards. $50-60. 6-8pm. Appleton Museum. mcaocala.com or 369-1500.

his teens, this pianist brings a riveting clarity to the keys. His talent has been recognized with numerous honors, including “First Prize” at the Young Concert Artists International Auditions. $35. 7:30pm. The Phillips Center, Gainesville. performingarts.ufl. edu or 800-905-2787.

OKTOBERFEST—Welcome

AN EVENING WITH PATSY CLINE: ENCORE!—The

Jordanaires back up songstress Cindy Moody in her signature role as country-western great Patsy Cline. New songs, new dance tunes, new jokes. You’ll sing along, laugh, cry, and jitterbug. Sponsored by Hospice of Marion County. $30-35.

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

PALM CAY CRAFT FAIR—

There will be a baked good sale, a quilt raffle, and the kitchen will be open from 10:30am to 12:30pm to buy a hot dog and drink for lunch. Open to the public. 8am-1pm. Palm Cay Clubhouse. 854-6058.

October 6

YING QUARTET—For nearly

three decades, this group’s belief that concert music can also be a meaningful part of everyday life has brought the foursome to perform in settings as diverse as the workplace, schools, juvenile prisons, and the White House. $25-35. 2pm. The Phillips Center, Gainesville. performingarts.ufl. edu or 800-905-2787.

October 10-11

GARE ST.LAZARE IRELAND—Irish actor Conor

Lovett performs all by himself on a barebones stage. Absent any artifice, he will present two adaptations: Herman Melville’s “Moby Dick” and “The Samuel

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AARON TIPPIN—This 25th

BLACK LABEL MOVEMENT—This company

is on a mission to create wildly physical, naturally virtuosic movement art that examines the human condition and inspires lives. $25-40. 7:30pm. The Phillips Center, Gainesville. performingarts.ufl.edu or 800-905-2787.

October 12

MARTY STEWART—

Celebrating the 20th anniversary of his iconic album “The Pilgrim,” along with stories and songs from his remarkable life and country career. $25-55 7:30pm.

Reilly Arts Center. reillyartscenter. com or (352) 351-1606 LIVE FROM NASHVILLE: COUNTRY LEGENDS—

Beginning with the music of the original pioneers Roy Acuff, Patsy Cline, Hank Williams, and Johnny Cash through the “Golden Age of Country Music” when artists like George Jones, Tammy Wynette, Conway Twitty, and Loretta Lynn ruled the airwaves. The musical journey concludes with a stirring patriotic tribute. $3234. 7pm Circle Square Cultural Center at On Top of the World. csculturalcenter.com or (352) 854-3670.

QUEEN OF PEACE CHURCH CRAFT FAIR—

This annual event is open to the public. 9am-2pm. Queen of Peace Church. 854-2181.

October 13

PIANIST DOMINIC MUZZI—Nationally acclaimed

concert pianist Dominic Muzzi will be performing works by

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

APPLAUD THE ARTS—Don’t

MAXIM LANDO—Still in

October 19-20

STATE OF THE ARTS—

TOM PETTY BIRTHDAY BASH—A free music festival

October 18

October 20

Guests of this benefit will walk and dine in total darkness to experience the same challenge faced every day by blind and visually impaired persons. Marion County SWAT teams and the Ocala Police Department will escort guests into the darkness and serve the meals using night vision goggles. Proceeds benefit the Florida Center for the Blind. $75. 6pm. Ocala Hilton. flblind. org or (352) 873-4700.

icon for more than two decades, Trace Adkins has made his mark on the country-music industry. $45-155. 7pm. Sharon L. Morse Performing Arts Center, The Villages. thesharon.com or (352) 753-3229.

This class will feature a panel discussion presented by representatives of the various visual and performing arts at CF and the Appleton Museum.

10am-Noon. $5. Offered by Senior Learners. Inc. at the University Center, Building 20 at the College of Central Florida.

Register at seniorlearners.org. or call (352) 239-8780.

DINING IN THE DARK—

October 18-20

JEEPTOBERFEST—Put on by

the Ocala Jeep Club as an annual fundraiser to benefit local charities. $5. 8am-6pm Saturday and 8am4pm Sunday. Market of Marion, Belleview. ocalajeepclub.com.

October 19

MAKING STRIDES OCALA—This walk consists

of survivors, caregivers, men, and women who are passionate about saving lives from breast cancer. Proceeds benefit the

celebrating the life and legacy of Tom Petty through diverse music performances, art, and community engagement.

Gainesville tribute band Heavy Petty will headline the festival along with more than 18 other bands. 12pm Saturday through 11pm Sunday. Depot Park, Gainesville. tompettybirthdaybash.com.

TRACE ADKINS— A Nashville

October 22

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC LIVE: UNTAMED—This

UF graduate and incredibly entertaining star of Nat Geo WILD’s Untamed gives his unfiltered look at what it’s like to come face-to-face with wild animals, survive extreme environments, and make unexpected discoveries.$25.

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

October 23-24

AARP TWO-DAY SAFE DRIVING CLASS—Learn

defensive driving techniques, new traffic laws, and rules of the road and earn an auto

insurance discount. Cost is $15 for AARP members and $20 for non-members, checks only and payable to AARP. Wednesday 1-4:30pm, Thursday 9am-12pm Ozark Bank building, second floor. ocalahealthsystem.com or 401-1338.

October 24-25

DANCE ALIVE NATIONAL BALLET: ANNA KARENINA—Based on

Tolstoy’s magnificent novel, it explores a wellspring of family dynamics, social issues, and changing times and features a stunning set design by Mihai Ciupe and striking projections by Houston Wells. $20-40. 7:30pm.

The Phillips Center, Gainesville. performingarts.ufl.edu or 800-905-2787.

October 25

CANNED HEAT— Canned

Heat attained three worldwide hits, “On the Road Again” in 1968, “Going up the Country” in 1969, and “Let’s Work Together” in 1970. These recordings became rock anthems throughout the world with “Going up the Country” later being adopted as the unofficial theme song for “The “Woodstock Generation.” $28-30. 7pm Circle Square Cultural Center at On Top of the World. csculturalcenter. com or 854-3670.

October 26

SANTOS FALL EPIC—Grab

your bike and hit the trails at this year’s fall epic. The off-road ride is marked out for 50 miles with six rest stops and a paved trail option for up to 32 miles. Food and a free vendor expo as well.

All proceeds help the homeless in Marion County. Registration starts at 8am. Landbridge Trailhead. eventbrite.com or 351-3475.

MCINTOSH 1890’S FESTIVAL—Located in the

historic town of McIntosh, the festival will feature all-day entertainment and over 280 arts, crafts, and antique vendors.

8am-5pm friendsofmcintosh.org

HALLOWEEN RUN—5k and

10k run located in the Paddock Mall parking area. A fall festival after-party will feature food trucks, live music, games, and more. Proceeds benefit Marion County Children’s Alliance. 3-7pm Race times, 4:15pm and 4:30pm.

Paddock Mall. 237-1223.

October 26-27

FINE ARTS FOR OCALA—

The Ocala Arts Festival attracts hundreds of artists from around the country and also showcases local children’s art and entertainment groups.

10am-6pm Saturday, 10am-5pm Sunday. Downtown Ocala. fafo. org or 867-0355.

October 30

THE REIGN & WANE OF WESTERN EUROPE—

Joe Coffee will look at the historical perspective of Western Europe’s past 500 years of great achievements, failings, and its modern day challenges. Wednesdays, October 30-November 20 from 10amnoon. $20. Presented by Senior Learners, Inc. at the University Center, Building 20 at the College of Central Florida. Register at seniorlearners.org or call (352) 239-8780.

Book by Dennis Kelly • Music & Lyrics by Tim Minchin

Sometimes you have to be a little bit naughty.

LIVE ON STAGE

August 29 – September 22 at Ocala Civic Theatre

MOZART GROUP—One

part classical music, one part stand-up comedy, MozART group has created a unique, worldwide cabaret where the music provides the humor. $2040. 7:30pm. The Phillips Center, Gainesville. performingarts.ufl. edu or 800-905-2787.

October 31

NOT-SO-SPOOKY HALLOWEEN—Marion

Therapeutic Riding Association will be hosting a family friendly event open to the community.

Games and activities for kids to engage in, horse costume station/competition during part of the event. Marion Therapeutic Riding Association. 5-7pm. development@mtraocala.org or 732-7300.

Sponsored By: Insight Credit Union • Ocala Style Magazine Tickets $27 adults $13 full-time students with school ID

352.236.2274 • OcalaCivicTheatre.com

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

63

OCALA’S GOOD LIFE retirement redefined

ANS W E

Solution to ENIGMA: “Gardens are not made by singing ‘Oh how beautiful.’ and sitting in the shade.”

—Rudyard Kipling

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CROSSWORD PUZZLE

puzzle page

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Š2019:Encompass Health Corporation:1426170

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.

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Sep 18: Stop Neck Pain Forever

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Oct 16: Sleep Better Tonight!

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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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(352)

351-2872

The Villages

3614 Wedgewood Ln (Next to Bonefish Grill)

(352)

259-2225

New Location Coming Soon!

Ocala East

942 SE 17th Street Ocala Fl 34471

Dr. Renny Edelson